The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has cautioned the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) against the unauthorized naming of major streets and roads in the Abuja city center without the approval of the FCT Administration.
Wike issued the warning on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, while flagging off the construction of engineering infrastructure and road networks in parts of the Guzape and Asokoro Districts of Abuja. The project, which covers Guzape Cadastral Zone A09, Lots 1 and 2, extends into the AIT neighborhood of Asokoro.
Speaking at the event, Barrister Wike condemned the practice by the AMAC Chairman, Hon. Christopher Maikalangu, of naming streets after private individuals without the knowledge or authorization of the FCT Administration.
He described the act as “unacceptable,” insisting that such road naming violates proper administrative procedures and dishonors the contributions of genuine national icons. According to the Minister, only individuals who have made remarkable contributions to Nigeria or the Federal Capital Territory deserve such recognition.
“We cannot be the ones constructing roads and providing infrastructure, only to wake up and see that they’ve been named after private individuals without our consent,” Wike said. “This must stop immediately. Go and refund anyone who paid for such unauthorized naming.”
The Minister further explained that local councils could name streets in satellite towns where they are directly responsible for providing infrastructure but not within the Abuja city center, where roads are built and funded by the FCT Administration.
He emphasized that street naming should go through due process and be approved by the FCTA to ensure that only deserving individuals are honored.
“You cannot just wake up and name a major street after someone when you don’t know where the money for the project came from,” he added. “You will not do that again.”
The flag-off ceremony marked another milestone in the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims to deliver sustainable urban infrastructure across Nigeria’s capital city.
Wike highlighted that the ongoing construction in Guzape and Asokoro would drastically improve road connectivity, ease traffic flow, and enhance the overall living conditions of residents.
“Those who live in this area can now feel the impact of President Tinubu’s administration. For years, they had no access road. But today, under this administration, that reality is changing,” he said.
He reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s determination to make Abuja a model city that can compete with other global capitals through sustained investments in infrastructure, education, health, and security.
The FCT Minister commended Dantata and Sawoe Construction Nigeria Limited, the firm handling the project, for its experience and reputation in delivering high-quality construction works.
He, however, cautioned against project delays or contract variations and encouraged the company to engage local residents and youths during execution to create employment and stimulate local economic growth.
“We want these roads completed on schedule. Use the local workforce and contribute to the economy of this community,” he instructed.
In her remarks, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised the project’s commencement, describing it as “another bold step” in realizing the transformation agenda of President Tinubu’s administration.
She also commended Minister Wike’s dedication to infrastructure renewal, calling him “Mr. Project” for his hands-on leadership approach and commitment to results.
“These projects are testaments to the vision and determination of President Bola Tinubu, and to the tireless leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike,” Dr. Mahmoud said.
Providing a technical overview, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, revealed that the new road layout covers 24 short roads totaling about 9.2 kilometers.
He stated that the project includes earthworks, surface water drainage, box and pipe culverts, street lighting, power supply, and telecommunication ducts.
“Upon completion, these roads will enhance accessibility, improve interconnectivity, and raise the standard of living in Guzape and Asokoro,” Dauda said, appealing to residents for cooperation during construction.
Speaking on behalf of Dantata and Sawoe Nigeria Limited, the Managing Director, Mr. Udo Heidschuster, thanked the FCT Administration for its confidence in the company and assured that the project would be delivered within schedule and to international standards.
He praised Minister Wike’s leadership, saying, “The infrastructural transformation taking place in Abuja under your watch speaks louder than words. We are proud to be part of this legacy.”
