President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the completed main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) in Abuja, describing the project as a major milestone in the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development and efficient service delivery.
The newly completed section of the expressway stretches from the Ring Road I Junction along the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway to the Ring Road II Junction, providing a critical transportation link to rapidly growing districts such as Lokogoma, Galadimawa and surrounding communities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Represented at the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu said the completion of the project reflects the administration’s determination to ensure that public infrastructure projects are delivered as promised.
According to the President, infrastructure remains a central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda and a key driver of economic growth, mobility and improved quality of life for Nigerians.
“When this administration assumed office, we made a commitment to deliver projects that citizens can see and benefit from directly,” Tinubu said. “The completion of this road demonstrates our resolve to finish important projects and expand infrastructure that supports national development.”
The Outer Southern Expressway is one of Abuja’s most important transportation corridors, connecting major residential, commercial and emerging development areas across the capital city.
Officials say the completed carriageways will significantly improve traffic flow, reduce travel time and ease congestion along key routes used daily by thousands of commuters.
The project is also expected to improve connectivity between the city centre and expanding suburban districts, creating new opportunities for economic activities, investment and urban growth.
President Tinubu noted that investments in road infrastructure remain essential for supporting productivity, reducing transportation costs and enhancing the overall efficiency of the nation’s capital.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to continuing infrastructure investments across Nigeria.
“We will continue to build roads, strengthen public infrastructure and invest in projects that improve the lives of citizens,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said the completion of the OSEX main carriageways aligns with the administration’s objective of completing inherited projects and ensuring value for public investments.
According to the minister, the project had already consumed significant public resources before the current administration accelerated efforts to complete it.
Wike explained that the contract for the latest phase of the road was awarded in October 2025 and received consistent funding support to ensure timely delivery.
He said regular inspections and close monitoring helped maintain construction standards and keep the project on schedule.
The minister commended China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC), the contractor handling the project, for completing the work within the agreed timeline.
“At the beginning, there were concerns about whether the project could be completed in time. However, through cooperation, commitment and effective project management, the contractor delivered successfully,” Wike said.
He noted that the project demonstrates what can be achieved when government agencies and contractors work together with clear objectives and accountability.
Wike disclosed that the FCT Administration has embarked on an extensive programme to commission completed infrastructure projects across Abuja and satellite communities.
According to him, the exercise spans several weeks and includes projects in transportation, education, public services, security infrastructure and urban renewal.
The minister said the initiative reflects the administration’s focus on translating policy objectives into visible development outcomes.
He added that ongoing investments are not limited to the city centre but also extend to rural communities and satellite towns where residents require improved access to roads, public facilities and essential services.
The minister also provided an update on the planned relocation of the Apo Mechanic Village.
According to Wike, infrastructure has been completed at the new relocation site in Wasa District, paving the way for the long-anticipated movement of businesses operating along the existing corridor.
He said the relocation initiative is expected to improve urban planning, reduce congestion and create a more organised environment for commercial activities.
The project has been under consideration for several years, and the administration believes the availability of supporting infrastructure at the new site will facilitate a smoother transition.
In her remarks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, described the commissioning of the expressway as another significant achievement in Abuja’s ongoing development.
She said the project highlights the administration’s commitment to improving transportation networks and supporting sustainable urban growth.
According to Mahmoud, strategic infrastructure investments remain essential for attracting investment, improving mobility, and enhancing residents’ quality of life.
She commended President Tinubu’s leadership and support for projects aimed at strengthening the nation’s capital.
Providing an overview of the project, Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda said the expressway has already improved accessibility and economic activities within surrounding communities.
He explained that the OSEX corridor forms part of a larger transportation network that ultimately extends from Asokoro through Apo, Wasa and Kuje, with future connections to the Abuja-Lokoja highway corridor.
Dauda noted that the road is being developed in phases, with earlier sections already completed and commissioned.
The newly inaugurated segment completes the expressway’s development to Ring Road II and provides additional capacity to accommodate growing traffic volumes in the area.
Managing Director of China Geo-Engineering Corporation, Mr Zhong Xiang, described the project as an example of productive international cooperation and infrastructure partnership.
He said the successful completion of the road reflects strong collaboration among stakeholders and a shared commitment to development.
According to Xiang, the project will contribute to economic growth, improved transportation and enhanced connectivity across the Federal Capital Territory.
The commissioning ceremony attracted senior government officials, members of the National Assembly, traditional leaders, security chiefs, Area Council chairpersons, political leaders and other stakeholders.
Observers described the event as another step in Abuja’s ongoing infrastructure expansion programme aimed at improving transportation efficiency, supporting economic development and enhancing the overall urban experience for residents.
With the completion of the OSEX main carriageways, the Federal Capital Territory continues to strengthen its transportation network while positioning itself to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population and expanding economy.
