President Tinubu means well for this country – FCT Minister Wike, hails completion of abandoned Apo-Karshi road
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has commended President Bola Tinubu for his decisive intervention that led to the completion of the now popular Apo-Karshi road in Abuja, which had remained stalled since its initial award in 2010
Speaking during an on-the-spot inspection of the newly completed road and other road infrastructure on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the Minister revealed how the project—originally awarded to an indigenous contractor over a decade ago—suffered prolonged delays despite the administration’s efforts to meet full financial obligations
Recognizing the strategic importance of the corridor to residents and commuters, the Minister said, President Tinubu directed the termination of the stalled contract and its immediate re-award to a more competent construction firm, SCC
According to the Minister, the re-award initially sparked skepticism among critics regarding the project’s cost and feasibility, particularly given the challenging topography of the terrain. However, the administration prioritized the comfort, safety, and economic well-being of FCT residents over detractors’ criticisms.
“This road was awarded in 2010 to an indigenous contractor, and of course, we did our best to ensure that the contractor was fully paid, but nothing was forthcoming. When it was brought to the attention of Mr. President, considering the importance of this road, he directed that the contract be terminated and re-awarded to a more competent contractor”, the Minister stated.
He noted that SCC fulfilled its commitment to deliver the project on schedule in November, resulting in a world-class road network that rivals infrastructure found in developed nations. The Minister added that the transformation of the area has generated widespread excitement across digital platforms and drawn scores of Abuja residents who now visit the corridor daily to admire the engineering phenomenon.
“I am not a social media person, but people come and tell me what is going on, and according to them, social media is agog about it. People could not believe that this could be done, particularly in our country, when you look at the topography of this place and compare it to what exists in developed countries”, he remarked.
Reiterating his confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Minister emphasized that the rapid pace of infrastructural renewal across the nation’s capital serves as undeniable proof of President Tinubu’s commitment to national development.
“Again, this reminds all Nigerians that the President means well for this country. I have always said that. Look at what is going on in Abuja today—look at the level of infrastructure—and I am very happy that Nigerians have seen indeed the infrastructure development carried out by this administration”, the Minister said.
During the inspection, the Minister observed numerous vehicles parked along the newly paved stretch as residents stopped to take in the scenic beauty of the landscape. He congratulated members of the press and stakeholders present on the tour, noting that their documentation of the project’s evolution makes them part of Abuja’s modern history.
“Look at the number of vehicles parked on the road just to come and see what it looks like. I am happy that people are happy, and I am sure most of you who have been with me on this special road are also happy that you are part of history”, he added.
Addressing questions from journalists regarding the official commissioning date of the road, the Minister explained that the FCT Administration (FCTA) is currently harmonizing schedules with the Presidency. He revealed that the road is part of a broader portfolio of between 10 and 12 major infrastructure projects—including works executed at ISEX and ongoing projects handled by Arab Contractors—lined up for presidential inauguration. He, however said that due to the remarkable public enthusiasm surrounding the specific corridor, the FCTA intends to propose an accelerated commissioning before the end of the month.
“We are looking at it based on the schedule of the President, as we have about 10 to 12 projects that we believe Mr. President should commission. But with the way this one is going, I think we will propose to Mr. President if he can commission this before the end of the month so the people here can feel that sense of pride”, the Minister stated.
Responding to inquiries about transforming the scenic corridor into a full-fledged tourist destination, the Minister confirmed plans to introduce complementary government facilities. While clarifying that road construction agencies must remain strictly focused on civil engineering, he disclosed that the FCT tourism department will be tasked with designing and implementing recreational and commercial amenities to maximize the area’s tourism potential.
“Of course, there will be facilities that we have to put in this place. The department responsible for tourism will come up with what they want the government to put in place, and I am sure they will make it happen as a tourist center”, he added.
Also inspected was the Arterial Road N1 from Arterial Road N20 to Ring Road 2, by Arab Contractors, also slated for commissioning before the 2027 general elections. The road extends from Wuye District through Dakibiyu District to Ring Road 2, improving vehicular traffic connection to the Ring Road 2, Mbora District, and several other bounding Districts around the location.
