FCT MINISTER SETS DEADLINE FOR CONTRACTORS AHEAD OF PRESIDENT TINUBU’S THIRD ANNIVERSARY PROJECTS

By: Wisdom Acka & Celestina Egu

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a firm directive to contractors handling major infrastructure projects across Abuja to meet agreed timelines, as the Federal Government prepares to commission key projects in celebration of President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

Wike gave the directive on Wednesday, April 6, 2026, during an extensive inspection tour of ongoing projects across the FCT.

The Minister assessed progress at several critical locations, including the Jahi–Gwarimpa Interchange, the Airport Road to Kuje corridor, the Kuje–Gwagwalada road, the City Gate project, and the Wuse/Central Area link roads. While expressing satisfaction with the quality of work, he emphasized the need for contractors to accelerate delivery to meet the commissioning schedule.

At the Jahi–Gwarimpa Interchange, being handled by CBC Global, Wike commended the standard of work, describing it as “very, very good.” He projected that the project could reach over 95 percent completion within two weeks but expressed concern about the timeline for completing the bridge component.

“There is no doubt about the quality of the job, but I am still doubtful about completion on time. They have given us their assurance, and I hope they will keep to it,” he said.

At the Airport Road to Kuje Junction project, executed by Arab Contractors, the Minister expressed stronger confidence, noting that the project was progressing well and could be completed before the end of the month. He also observed steady progress on the Kuje–Gwagwalada road.

Particular praise was reserved for the City Gate project being handled by Julius Berger. Wike described the development as a “beautiful work” that would significantly enhance the entrance into Abuja.

“If Abuja residents require the best, then we are going to provide the best,” he stated, adding that the project would feature permanent security infrastructure, round-the-clock surveillance, and AI-enabled monitoring systems.

Despite the progress recorded, the Minister stressed that all contractors must strictly adhere to project timelines in line with the anniversary commissioning programme.

“These are projects scheduled for inauguration during the third anniversary of this administration. I am appealing to all contractors to keep to their timelines,” Wike said.

He noted that although the quality of work on the Wuse/Central Area link roads was commendable, concerns remained about the pace of execution.

Wike further revealed that several projects have been lined up for commissioning during the anniversary period. These include water treatment plants in Bwari and Ushafa, road projects in Katampe, Gishiri, and Gaduwa, the CLC project, sections of the Kuje–Gwagwalada corridor, Bazango and Kaura roads, as well as the development of the relocated Apo Mechanics Village.

The Minister reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Administration to meet its own obligations, stating that the government would continue to support contractors to ensure timely delivery.

“Overall, we are satisfied with the level of commitment demonstrated by the contractors. We will also fulfill our own responsibilities,” he added.