Wike Promises Abuja Will Rank Among World-Class Cities by 2027

….Flags off fresh road projects, inspects judiciary housing sites

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged sweeping infrastructure upgrades across Abuja before the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first term in 2027.

Speaking on Monday at the flag-off of access roads ILS 02 and ILS 03 (Timipre Sylva Street) in Mabushi District, Wike said the projects reflect Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and will transform the capital into a globally competitive city.

“In terms of infrastructure, Abuja will compete with other known cities of the world. By the time Mr President’s tenure expires, Abuja will be a different city,” the Minister assured.

In the past three days, Wike has flagged off three out of 12 projects scheduled before October. These include the development of Arterial Road N1 linking Wuye District to Ring Road II and the Northern Parkway from Ring Road II to III.

Other projects set for launch include the second Abuja airport runway, erosion control in Kaura District, transit routes connecting Central Area to Wuse, the Old Keffi Road rehabilitation, and engineering infrastructure for Guzape District. The FCTA also plans to construct official residences for the heads of key courts, alongside new collector and arterial roads in Katampe and Asokoro.

The Minister stressed that only fully funded projects are being executed. “If you award contracts without funding, you only raise false hopes. Every project we flag off is backed by available funds,” he noted.

Wike also inspected the Court of Appeal complex in Jabi and ongoing judges’ quarters at Gishiri. While satisfied with progress on the residential units, he expressed concern over delays at the Court of Appeal site and summoned the contractor for urgent talks.

He commended President Tinubu’s commitment to judicial welfare, saying decent housing is crucial to protecting the independence and integrity of judges.

“This shows Mr President wants our judges to be independent and safe, not living among criminals. That is why these quarters are very important,” Wike said.

According to him, the FCT’s infrastructure renewal drive goes beyond beautification, aiming to create a secure, functional, and investor-friendly capital city.