President Bola Tinubu says his government is building the foundation for a Nigeria where all citizens can prosper together.
He made the comments on Tuesday at a ceremony in Abuja's Federal Capital Territory. The event marked the start of construction on two service roads along the Southern Parkway.
Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, represented the President at the inauguration.
Yilwatda noted that three years of reforms have been demanding but essential.
"The results are here – the roads, the bridges, the rails, and housing," Yilwatda said. "We are laying the foundation for a new Nigeria that works for all and for our common prosperity."
He urged Nigerians to back the administration's agenda. "The best of Abuja and the best of Nigeria are still ahead of us," he told attendees.
According to Yilwatda, the roads will follow Abuja's master plan when finished. They'll improve traffic flow in the southern section and connect different phases of the city.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way, the main carriageway, was already opened by the administration. These service roads aren't luxuries, Yilwatda explained—they're meant to improve access.
Residents in Dutse, Gudu, Gaduwa, and Duboyi face serious traffic jams regularly. Peak hours on S2 and S20 cause severe congestion throughout these areas.
Once completed, the service roads will ease that burden significantly. Travel times will drop, businesses will cut costs, and families will waste less time stuck in traffic.
"That is the dividend of democracy," Yilwatda noted. "That is the renewed hope you can feel and touch every day."
Yilwatda described the project as part of a wider infrastructure push across Nigeria. His administration has rejected excuses and chosen action instead, he said.
Prof. Wole Soyinka Way and the N16 Interchange linking Jahi and Gwarinpa are transforming the territory.
Roads in Kuje, Gwagwalada, and Mabushi are also being upgraded.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike earned particular praise from the President's representative. "You have earned your name, 'Mr Project,'" Yilwatda told him.
Yilwatda noted that many doubted Wike's abilities outside Rivers State. The minister has proven his commitment to delivering projects, not merely talking about them.
Since taking office, Wike has revived abandoned projects and met tight deadlines. His track record speaks for itself, Yilwatda added.
Wike acknowledged that the 2027 elections will affect the contract award process. However, he vowed the administration won't slow down its work.
"Politics or not, we will continue transforming this capital city," Wike said. The directive comes directly from President Tinubu, he confirmed.
Work should wrap up by January 2027, according to Wike's timeline. He assured the contractor that the FCTA will pay its bills on time.
