FCT MINISTER COMMENDS RESIDENT DOCTORS FOR CALLING OFF STRIKE, FLAGS OFF NORTHERN PARKWAY CONSTRUCTION

By: Wisdom Acka and Prudence Okonna

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike has commended resident doctors in the FCT for calling off their strike in the interest of residents.

Barr Wike gave the commendation while flagging off the construction of the Northern Parkway from Ring Road II to Ring Road III this Friday, September 19, 2025.

The Minister commenced his address by expressing his gratitude to the doctors for prioritising the welfare of citizens, noting that dialogue and understanding remain vital tools in resolving conflicts such as this.

His words: First, let me thank the resident doctors who have seen reasons to call off their strike for the interest of the FCT and the interest of the nation, that is the way.”

He also revealed that he had signed off on all the files containing all their requests before coming to the flag-off ceremony.

Barr Wike also seized the opportunity to thank the Acting Head of Service, his Chief of Staff and others who made efforts to ensure that the strike was called off.

Speaking on the project, the minister said it will provide jobs for the teeming youths in the nation’s capital.

According to him, “We have sixteen days of flagging off new projects and people will be employed, in that case, you are also creating employment. For example, imagine the number of persons who will work with Julius Berger for two years on this project.”

The Minister emphasised that efforts are being made to address the challenge of unemployment through the projects, which will provide opportunities for contractors to make supplies, food vendors, and others to earn some income.

He emphasised that the infrastructural development of the FCT represents a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA), which envisions Abuja as a city comparable to the best across the world.

“We are committed to ensuring that through projects such as this, more jobs are created, economic activities are boosted, and residents enjoy a better standard of living. Before the end of this administration, Abuja will stand tall among world-class cities,” Wike assured.

The Minister, while appealing to Nigerians to be patient with the President as he delivers on his mandate, reiterated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the welfare of the people. He therefore urged residents to continue to support the President’s vision.

The Minister reiterated his appreciation to the FCDA for ensuring the project took off, praised project contractor, Julius Berger Nig PLC for its work ethic, and urged support for local content in the execution of the contract.

Acting Head of Service of the FCT, Nancy Nathan, in her vote of thanks, expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for placing the development of the FCT at the forefront of his Renewed Hope Agenda. She also hailed the Minister for his bold vision in transforming Abuja.

“For us, this road is not just about infrastructure; it is an investment in the future of our city. The FCTA is resolute in delivering projects that touch lives,” Nathan affirmed.

In giving an overview of the project, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda highlighted that the road is divided into the Northern and Southern Parkways, both commencing from the Central area.

The road, he further explained, links four different parts of the city and ends at the outer Northern expressway near Deidei, adding that the project includes a dual carriageway, two river bridges, an interchange, box culverts, drainage, streetlights, and telecommunication ducts.

“This project will accelerate economic activity on the northern side of the city, in line with the Abuja Master Plan,” he said.

Managing Director/CEO of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr. Peer Lubasch, assured that the company has already commenced work and will deliver according to specification.

“This project is a celebration of infrastructure and of partnership with the FCTA. When the Minister says he wants it done, he means yesterday, and we are fully committed to delivering on that mandate,” Lubasch stated.