PRESIDENT TINUBU COMMISSIONS INNER NORTHERN EXPRESSWAY, COMMENDS WIKE FOR CONTRIBUTING TO A BRIGHTER FCT FUTURE
By: Wisdom Acka and Prudence Okonna
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike, for contributing to a brighter future for the Federal Capital Territory.
The President said this during the commissioning of the Right-Hand Service Carriageway of the Inner Northern Expressway (INEX) from Ring Road 3 (RR3) to the Outer Northern Expressway (Murtala Mohammed Expressway) on Tuesday, June 24, 2025.
President Tinubu, who was represented at the commissioning ceremony by the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jubril, emphasised that the road is not just an infrastructure project, but a symbol of the brighter future envisioned for Nigeria’s capital.
He commended the Wike-led FCT Administration for his vision, commitment to quality and timely execution.
In his words “This vital carriageway we commissioned today is not just a road. It is a symbol of progress and a reflection of our administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. An agenda committed to building infrastructure that serves the people, unlocks economic potential, and supports sustainable development.”
Stressing the need for expansion of the nation’s capital, the President said: “As traffic volume increases in the FCT, and across the satellite towns, it has become imperative for continuous expansion and maintenance of critical routes.
“This road will not only decongest key junctions, but also facilitate safer, faster movement within Abuja’s transportation corridors. It will open more opportunities for businesses, housing and investments in the adjoining districts.
“It is quite apt to say that projects like these are a testament to what we can achieve when planning, execution and leadership align with purpose.”
President Tinubu reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to replicating significant and quality infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and railways, among others, in every part of the country to ensure that no region is left behind.
The President appealed to the residents to protect the infrastructure, obey traffic rules and treat public assets with respect. “They belong to all of us and generations yet unborn,” he advised.
The Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike thanked the President for his continued support of the FCT Administration.
The Minister explained that the road leads from Idu to Zuba Road, and goes back to the city through Kubwa, emphasising that road infrastructure was the driver of any economic growth, and that no investor would come when there are no roads.
“If there are no roads, no investor will come, because their duty is not to come and do roads for you. You are to provide the basic infrastructure. That’s why we cannot thank Mr. President enough,” he stated.
The Minister explained that construction of the roads is in line with the President’s directive to prioritise projects that directly improve the lives of our people,” he stated, adding that the project’s proximity to the Abuja Industrial Park underscores its economic value.
He recalled that the road was awarded in 2014 at the cost of ₦7 billion, but was increased to ₦31 billion due to inflation, adding that the Renewed Hope Agenda was committed to continuing with projects that would be impactful on the lives and economy of the people.
The Minister therefore appealed: “We pray that you continue to support us the way you have supported us. Do not relent, because we cannot do anything if you are not giving us any support.
Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, appreciated the President for his support and focus on the welfare of the people through the work being done in the FCT.
She also commended the Minister for his result-driven leadership, expressing her loyalty and gratitude, especially for prioritising projects that cater to residents’ welfare.
The Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Richard Dauda explained that the expressway, located on the northern flank of the city, is a vital urban link connecting key communities including Maitama, Idu, Gwagwa, Karimo, and Jiwa.
The total 32.5km dual carriageway comprises 10 lanes and includes 20 box and pipe culverts, four bridges, and street lighting.
“The contract was first awarded to Salini Nigeria in December 2014. This second phase stretches from Ring Road 3 to the Outer Northern Expressway. Further developments will follow,” he said.
Abuja Digest reports that the commissioning of the Right-Hand Service Carriageway of the Inner Northern Expressway (INEX) from Ring Road 3 (RR3) to the Outer Northern Expressway (Murtala Mohammed Expressway) makes it Day 9 out of the 17 days of commissioning set aside by the FCT Administration in commemoration of the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s Administration.
Present at the ceremony were the All-Progressive Congress (APC) Chairman, Umar Ganduje, Former Governors of Enugu, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Abia, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Benue, Samuel Ortom, among other elder statesmen and stakeholders.
