President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed immense joy and pride on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, as he inaugurated the fifth project completed by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration in celebration of his first year in office.
The newly commissioned project, the Full Scope Development of the Arterial Road N20, stretches from Northern Parkway to the Outer Northern Expressway within the Federal Capital City (FCC). This significant road, now named Wole Soyinka Way, stands as a tribute to the Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.
In his address, President Tinubu praised the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, and his team for their hard work and commitment to the development of the Territory. He emphasized the critical role of infrastructure in sustaining the growth of the FCT, acknowledging the team’s efforts in enhancing the value of the nation’s capital.
“Your recommendation to name this road as Wole Soyinka Way is well received,” President Tinubu remarked. “He is our foremost playwright, novelist, and Nobel Prize winner who has brought Nigeria pride on an international stage. Thank you for thinking in this direction. We all accept your recommendation on behalf of the people and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The President lauded Professor Wole Soyinka, the first African to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, highlighting the honor he has brought to Nigeria. The road’s dedication to Soyinka symbolizes the nation’s respect and admiration for his literary contributions and global influence.
President Tinubu also commended Minister Wike and his team for the successful completion of the crucial road project, which includes an underground system for wastewater management and fiber optic ducts among other facilities. He noted that the FCT Minister has significantly contributed to the economic prosperity and value enhancement of the nation’s capital.
Reflecting on his decision to appoint Barr. Wike to his cabinet, despite contrary advice, President Tinubu praised Wike’s exceptional performance and inspirational leadership. “To Hon. Minister of FCT and his entire team, my presence here is to say thank you very much for giving this government a very successful first year,” he stated. “You inspired so many people, and the acronym WIW – Wike is Working – resonates with all of us.”
He continued, “My heart is full of joy and pride because some doubted you would perform. I made my choice, and you didn’t let me or the country down. You worked day and night, thinking creatively and implementing reforms that have benefitted many. The jobs you are creating during these activities are extremely encouraging.”
In his remarks, FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike revealed that the contract for constructing the Arterial Road N20 was awarded in 2020 at a cost of N30.6 billion. The road’s completion has brought significant relief to the FCT residents, he added. Wike emphasized the importance of honoring individuals like Prof. Wole Soyinka, who have made substantial contributions to progress and development, setting an example for others.
The Minister extended his gratitude to the contractor for ensuring the timely completion of the project. Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, also expressed her thanks to President Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, and the Federal Executive Council members for their support of the FCT Administration. She acknowledged other stakeholders, including the FCDA engineers and the construction team, whose expertise made the Arterial Road N20 project a reality.
Dr. Mahmoud highlighted that the construction of arterial roads in the FCT has created a safer, more efficient, and sustainable transportation network that benefits everyone in the capital city.
Providing an overview of the project, the Executive Secretary of FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad, explained that Arterial Road N20 serves as a vital conduit for a network of engineering infrastructure from primary sources to various adjoining districts in the FCT. He noted that the full scope of the development stretches from the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX) or the Murtala Mohammed Expressway to the Airport Expressway, but the segment being commissioned was the development from ONEX up to the Northern Parkway.
This ceremony not only marks a milestone in infrastructural development but also underscores the administration’s commitment to honoring distinguished Nigerians and enhancing the nation’s capital.
