Tinubu Commissions Karu Roads, Says Infrastructure Drive Is Raising Living Standards Across Nigeria

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike (left) welcoming the Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja on Monday. Photo: State House

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the living standards of Nigerians through sustained infrastructure development, declaring that ongoing projects across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are delivering on the promises of his Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President made the declaration on Monday during the commissioning of the newly rehabilitated and expanded road network stretching from the Karu Interchange to the Customs Clinic Junction, alongside several adjoining roads in Karu, one of Abuja’s busiest satellite towns.

The commissioning came just one week after the inauguration of the Karu Satellite Town Water Supply Network, underscoring what the Federal Government described as a coordinated effort to ease urban congestion and improve the quality of life for residents.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said the road project reflects his administration’s determination to bring development closer to where Nigerians live, work and conduct business.

“When we assumed office in 2023, we recognized that true development must reach where the people actually live, work and commute,” the President said.

“Indeed, this project stands as a clear testament to our promise to resolve urban congestion and uplift the living standards of our people. It is a direct product of our Renewed Hope Agenda in action.”

Tinubu noted that the Karu corridor, a major gateway linking the FCT with neighbouring states, had for years suffered from severe traffic congestion that affected productivity and daily life. According to him, the upgraded road network has significantly reduced travel time, eliminated persistent gridlock and created a more conducive environment for businesses to flourish.

Beyond improving mobility, the President highlighted enhanced security measures incorporated into the project, including the installation of modern solar-powered streetlights along the corridor.

He said the lighting infrastructure would improve nighttime visibility for motorists, reduce crime and make the road network safer for residents and commuters.

Tinubu also credited the rapid transformation taking place across the nation’s capital to the leadership of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing his supervision of ongoing infrastructure projects as focused and relentless.

“I sincerely commend the Minister and his team. By prioritizing high-density, strategic satellite nodes like Karu alongside the city centre, the FCT Administration is validating our governance philosophy that the wealth of this territory must yield practical, everyday comfort for all socio-economic classes,” he said.

The President further praised Abdul-Val Nigeria Limited, the contractor that executed the project, for delivering quality work within schedule, saying the company had demonstrated that indigenous firms are capable of meeting international standards in project execution.

Tinubu urged traditional rulers, youth groups, market women and residents of Karu to safeguard the infrastructure by preventing vandalism and indiscriminate waste disposal that could obstruct drainage systems.

He stressed that protecting public assets would ensure the roads continue to support commerce, enhance public safety and strengthen community development.

Speaking at the event, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike described President Tinubu’s support for the territory as unprecedented, saying it reflects his commitment to improving the welfare of residents.

Wike said the remarkable pace of infrastructure development across the FCT had earned widespread appreciation from residents and assured them that the administration would sustain the momentum.

He also commended the contractor for its commitment to delivering the project in line with the Federal Government’s vision of transforming infrastructure nationwide.

On behalf of the FCT administration and residents, the Head of Service, Mrs. Nancy, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for what she described as his unwavering commitment to national development and infrastructure renewal.

Providing an overview of the project, the Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD), Hon. Zulkiflu Abdulkadir, said improving infrastructure in satellite towns and area councils remains central to the development strategy of the FCT.

He explained that the project includes the installation of solar-powered streetlights, construction of drainage systems and pedestrian walkways, all designed to improve economic activities and social life in Karu, the most populated satellite town in the Federal Capital Territory.

The event was attended by lawmakers, senior government officials, traditional rulers and other stakeholders from across the FCT.