PRESIDENT TINUBU COMMISSIONS ARTERIAL ROAD N20, WOLE SOYINKA WAY, CALLS IT BEACON OF COLLECTIVE ASPIRATION
By: Wisdom Acka and Prudence Okonna
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the newly constructed interchange bridges on Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) over the Outer Northern Expressway (Murtala Mohammed Way), describing it as a magnificent piece of infrastructure and a beacon of collective aspiration for a more prosperous Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The President made the remarks during the official commissioning of the interchange bridges on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in Abuja.
President Tinubu, who was represented by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said his administration is proud of the ongoing transformation in the FCT, adding that the project is a crucial intervention in reducing traffic gridlock, unlocking economic opportunities, and improving the daily lives of commuters.
In his words, “The interchange, a magnificent piece of engineering, is indeed a testament to our unwavering commitment to progress, a beacon of our collective aspiration for a more connected and prosperous FCT.”
He noted that the interchange would enhance productivity and foster unity through improved connectivity.
In his words, “This project is a promise fulfilled, where infrastructure brings people together and improves quality of life”.
Declaring that even the blind could see the ongoing transformation, and commending the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his transformative leadership, President Tinubu said, “Your commitment to transforming the FCT into a world-class capital is evident.’’
He said that his administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” was built on the bedrock of robust infrastructure for the transformation of the country’s fortune.
The President noted that the nation’s infrastructure must be strong, clear, and efficient to pump life into its economy and foster social well-being.
He also commended the construction workers and stakeholders who worked tirelessly to achieve the dream.
In his address, the Minister of the FCT, Barrister. Nyesom Wike expressed profound gratitude to the President for his unwavering support.
He disclosed that the project, awarded in December 2020 to Gilmor Nigeria Ltd., was one of the projects completed by the Company within the past year, which have all been commissioned, adding that the President’s impactful leadership style is crucial to the survival of any government.
Reiterating that commissioning of these projects was due to the President’s directive to prioritise people-centred infrastructure and appreciating President Tinubu for his exemplary leadership.
“This interchange is a testament to the power of leadership. When you provide the right leadership, you get the right results. The President has given that leadership, and today we see the results.”
“There’s no magic. It’s just about commitment. The President has committed to seeing that good things happen in this country, and that’s why we have renewed hope,” The Minister added.
The Minister lauded Gilmor Nigeria Ltd. for executing a quality project and thanked the National Assembly and other stakeholders for their support.
“This is not in 3D, this is reality. The work has been delivered,” he added.
In her vote of thanks, the Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said her heart was full of gratitude to God for the success of the 10th day of the 17 days of project commissioning by the FCT Administration.
She also appreciated President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and guidance.
“All the credit goes to the President for his visionary leadership.”
“To the FCT Minister, your dynamic leadership has made this possible. To our staff, well done. To the public who endured the construction period, we thank you for your patience.” The Minister of State said.
Dr. Mahmoud also extended appreciation to guests who had been part of the multiple project commissioning, describing their support as invaluable.
Giving an overview of the project, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda said the interchange bridges, including a six-lane carriageway, were part of the Arterial Road N20 project awarded to Gilmor Nigeria Ltd. in December 2020.
He added that the scope of the project included two bridges, water facilities, drainage, street lighting, and telecom conduits as well as other supporting infrastructure designed to enhance seamless connectivity along Mabushi, Katampe, Jahi and Kado districts of the FCT.
