Constitution, Independence Avenues Completion’ll Tackle City Traffic

By: Wisdom Acka

Newly completed B6, B12 and Circle Roads, populaly know as Constitution and Independence Avenues would eradicate traffic gridlock on the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Expressway (Airport Road) and parts of the Federal Capital City, Abuja.

These strategic roads would also boost socio-economic growth and increase connectivity.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu disclosed this while commissioning the roads in Abuja, Thursday.

He said: “Completion of these roads showcase the impact of dedicated planning and collaborative efforts, reducing traffic congestion and travel times while ensuring seamless connectivity within the capital.”

Tinubu, who was represented at the occasion by the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, stated this and commended inauguration of the roads; describing it as a “testament to the administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development and urban renewal.”

The President stated that the roads were completed in record time under the leadership of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike; adding that the roads were “more than just physical structures – they represent a gateway to enhanced economic activities, improved accessibility, and a higher quality of life for citizens.”

Located within the center of the city, Constitution, Independence and Circle roads connect crucial zones, including the three-arms zone, cultural and diplomatic zones, as well as houses of various ministries and corporate offices.

“Our ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ continues to prioritize infrastructure as a driving force for economic advancement, with a commitment to building more roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure that will connect people and drive the economy,” he said.

“The inauguration ceremony marked a significant milestone in Abuja’s development, setting a precedent for future infrastructural achievements across Nigeria”, he added.

Earlier, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, noted that the road which never saw the light of the day for 17 years, was finally completed within one year of Tinubu’s government and purposeful leadership.

Wike said: “Mr. President, this road was first awarded in 2007, with a price tag of 48.5 billion Naira. After multiple revisions, the cost ballooned to 98.8 billion Naira in 2021. But in just one year of your administration, we’ve turned a 17-year-old dream into a reality. This is the power of effective leadership.”

The Minister praised the President’s focus on completing existing projects, saying: “When we were inaugurated in August 2023, Mr. President gave us a clear directive: complete all ongoing projects before starting new ones. That’s why we’ve been working tirelessly to finish projects awarded by previous administrations since 2007.”

“Our 2024 budget reflects this commitment, with 58% dedicated to completing old projects and 42% for new initiatives. This is what leadership looks like,” he said.

The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, on her part, commended President Tinubu’s leadership.

“Your support has been instrumental in our success, inspiring us to push boundaries and make a real difference in the lives of FCT residents,” she added.

Reviewing the project, the Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) Engr. Shehu Hadi-Ahmad, stated that the roads “form a vital network that connects some of Abuja’s most important zones.

“These roads link the Three Arms Zone, Diplomatic Zone, Ministries, commercial areas, and more, providing a principal route from the Airport Expressway to the Central Area.”

Hadi-Ahmed added that the roads serve as a presidential route, connecting the Airport to the Three Arms Zone and the Presidential Villa.

“Designed for efficiency and safety, the roads feature two main carriageways with two lanes and two bus lanes, plus 41 bridges and retaining walls at various intersections; ensuring smooth travel and minimizing congestion”, he said.