ABUJA – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reassured rural dwellers that his administration is committed to bringing development to all parts of the nation’s capital, particularly the underserved communities.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony for the construction of a 1.7 km inter-district road connecting Daki Biyu, Utako, Jabi, and Wuye districts of Abuja, Wike pledged that rural areas would soon experience the full impact of governance through people-centered projects.
“We are not only focused on the city center. After four consecutive days of flagging-off key infrastructure projects, starting next Monday, we will shift our focus to the six area councils, bringing the much-needed development to rural areas,” Wike announced.
Wike thanked President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing rural development in the FCT, noting that these projects are aimed at improving the welfare and living standards of residents.
“Our goal is to ensure that every resident, from the city center to the rural outskirts, feels the impact of governance,” he said.
In addition to rural development, Wike revealed plans to revamp older neighborhoods in the capital city, starting with Garki Area 1, to align with modern standards.
“We are determined to upgrade the aesthetics of Abuja to meet international expectations,” he added, underscoring the FCT’s position as the diplomatic hub and gateway to Nigeria.
The inter-district road project, according to the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Shehu Hadi Ahmad, is designed to ease transportation, linking major arterial roads and sector centers, and boosting access between the districts.
“This road will not only serve the districts but also open up a major sector center, providing critical services for multiple districts,” Ahmad explained.
Dr. Samuel Atang, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Administration, highlighted the broader vision of transforming Abuja into one of the top 20 capital cities globally.
“The Honourable Minister is dedicated to fulfilling the vision of Abuja’s founding fathers. By the time he is done, Abuja will stand tall among the best capital cities in the world,” Atang said.