The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the significant improvement in the financial stability of Nigeria’s states and the FCT.
Speaking at the official flag-off of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) main carriageways, from Ring Road I (RR1) to Ring Road II (RR2), the Minister described the President’s decision to end fuel subsidy as a bold and visionary policy that has transformed state revenues across the nation.
Barr. Wike praised President Tinubu’s courage in removing fuel subsidy—a step many previous administrations had avoided—saying it has created a new era of financial autonomy for state governments.
“Today, the President’s leadership has made it possible for all states and the FCT to operate without constantly seeking loans from banks,” Wike stated.
“Every state now has enough resources, not only to pay salaries and fund governance activities but also to embark on critical infrastructure projects.”
He added that the policy shift has enabled many states to manage their finances more responsibly, noting that the era of leaving unpaid debts for successors is gradually coming to an end.
“What was once impossible has become achievable because of the President’s decisive action on subsidy removal,” he emphasized. “Without that reform, even the FCT would have struggled to pay salaries today
The FCT Minister also reacted humorously to the defection of some governors from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Those who once criticized me for allegedly supporting the APC while in the PDP have now joined the APC themselves,” he said with a smile.
“If they are there today, then they should commend me for working for where they have arrived. I should be thanked for doing a good job for them.”
Highlighting the significance of the new Outer Southern Expressway project, Wike said it fulfills a promise he made earlier during the commissioning of the left-hand service carriageway.
The road expansion, he explained, will significantly reduce traffic congestion in key parts of the FCT and enhance mobility for thousands of daily commuters.
“This project is part of the FCT Administration’s Renewed Hope commitment—to provide not just infrastructure but happiness and convenience for residents,” the Minister noted.
He further announced progress on the relocation of Apo traders to Wasa, confirming that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has approved the cost for providing infrastructure at the new market site.
“We have now received the cost estimate from the FCDA Executive Secretary to provide full infrastructure in Wasa,” he said.
“Every promise made by this administration under Mr. President’s leadership will be fulfilled. The people of the FCT can count on us.”
Wike also expressed appreciation to FCT Area Council Chairmen for their continued cooperation and commitment to supporting government development goals.
In her Vote of Thanks, the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the commencement of the OSEX main carriageway as a remarkable milestone for the city’s development.
“This project will ease the heavy traffic burden and improve the quality of life for Abuja residents,” she said.
Dr. Mahmoud also praised **President Tinubu for his “Renewed Hope” leadership and commended Barr. Wike for his consistent drive to transform the capital city through people-centered projects.
The Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, provided a technical overview of the project, reiterating that the Administration remains committed to expanding Abuja’s transport network and improving connectivity across districts.
He explained that the Outer Southern Expressway originates from the Villa Roundabout in Asokoro, stretching through Apo, Wasa, and Kuje, before terminating at the Abuja-Lokoja Expressway intersection in Gwagwalada—a total of 67 kilometers.
Engr. Dauda outlined that the OSEX is designed as a 10-lane expressway, featuring:
Two main carriageways (three lanes each)
Two service carriageways (two lanes each)
He said the section being flagged off Ring Road I to Ring Road II, will be completed within one year. Upon completion, it will provide a fast evacuation route from the city center to the southern districts, cutting travel time and stimulating economic activity in the ,,, X,,, Apo, Lokogoma, and Gudu areas.
Mr. Zhong Xiang, Managing Director of China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) Nigeria Ltd, assured the FCT Administration of the company’s commitment to timely delivery
“This expressway is a strategic infrastructure project that will enhance Abuja’s mobility and create direct and indirect employment for over 1,000 people,” he said.
He added that CGC will prioritize community engagement and ensure that local workers are part of the project, in line with the company’s corporate social responsibility policies.
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The Farming Justice Project reflects President Tinubu’s broader Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes transparency, infrastructure, and sustainable development.
For the FCT, Wike assured residents that every promise made will be fulfilled through practical, measurable results.
“Abuja is on the path to becoming one of the most developed and livable capital cities in the world,” he said.
