ABUJA FCT, Nigeria — In a grand ceremony that epitomized the spirit of progress and development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lauded the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his exceptional leadership and commitment to transforming Abuja. The event, which saw the commissioning of the newly completed Southern Parkway Road, now named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way, highlighted the significant strides made under Wike’s administration.
A Landmark Achievement
On Tuesday, a sense of achievement and optimism filled the air as President Tinubu addressed the gathering at the commissioning ceremony. He began by commending Wike’s visionary leadership, describing his efforts as both revolutionary and inspiring. The President’s praise was not just for the physical infrastructure but for the broader administrative changes that have revitalized the FCT.
“I will not say that I am surprised. Barrister Nyesom Wike, Mr. Project, thank you for giving us this home and for your sincere commitment to shared value. Well done; as a team leader, you work so hard, tirelessly,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that has characterized their administration.
The Southern Parkway: A Symbol of Progress
The newly commissioned Southern Parkway, now named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way, is more than just a road. It represents the collective aspirations for connectivity, accessibility, and progress in Abuja. This 5.4-kilometer road features 12 lanes, including four interchanges with a total of eight bridges, designed to ease traffic congestion and enhance mobility within the city.
Speaking at the event, Tinubu noted, “The completion of the Southern Parkway underscores our commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. This road will not only ease traffic congestion but also enhance mobility and creativity for the residents and visitors to the FCT.”
From Vision to Reality
The road project, which began in December 2011, faced numerous challenges and delays. Initially contracted at N16.2 billion, the cost was revised to N35.8 billion in March 2021 due to changes in scope and economic conditions. Despite these hurdles, the project was brought to completion under Wike’s stewardship, reflecting his determination and strategic vision.
Wike, in his address, highlighted the project’s significance. “As we mark the first year of your transformative leadership, Mr. President, this event underscores our shared commitment to progress, innovation, and the enduring prosperity of Nigeria. The Southern Parkway is a principal artery that connects vital areas within the FCT, symbolizing our collective aspirations for connectivity, ease of livelihood, and progress.”
Transformative Leadership
Under Wike’s administration, the FCT has seen significant improvements in infrastructure, administration, and public services. His approach has been characterized by a hands-on leadership style and a commitment to completing longstanding projects. This dynamic leadership has reinvigorated the FCT, positioning it as a model of urban development in Nigeria.
President Tinubu’s Vision
President Tinubu’s administration has also played a crucial role in supporting these transformative efforts. His vision for Nigeria, encapsulated in the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” focuses on infrastructure as a key enabler of economic development and prosperity. The successful completion of the Southern Parkway is a testament to this vision.
“As we commemorate our first year in office when I was inaugurated as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, it is a great joy and challenge that we have a huge job on our hands. The transformative projects you are seeing, like this one, symbolize our collective efforts towards a more prosperous Nigeria,” Tinubu remarked.
Commitment to Progress
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the needs of Nigerian citizens, emphasizing that infrastructure development is central to achieving economic growth and improving the quality of life. “We recognize the fact that infrastructure is an enabler of jobs, economic development, and prosperity. We believe we are going to achieve all of that,” he said.
Tinubu also acknowledged Wike’s crucial role in these achievements. “Thank you for being a very good team leader. We all collectively will not let you down. The success of this project means more jobs and more hard work, which are essential for our nation’s development.”
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the successful completion of the Southern Parkway is just one of many projects set to redefine the landscape of Abuja. Wike announced that this was one of the first nine visionary projects scheduled for commissioning by President Tinubu in the coming days, each aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and livability of the capital.
“The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the FCT Residents appreciate Mr. President’s support and laudable achievements. It is in this regard and for many other patriotic persuasions that the FCT Administration hereby humbly resolved that this very important road be named the ‘BOLA AHMED TINUBU WAY,’” Wike declared.
A Collective Effort
The transformation of the FCT is a collective effort that involves not just the government but also the citizens. The improvements in infrastructure and services are designed to benefit all residents and visitors, making Abuja a more vibrant and livable city.
Wike’s leadership and Tinubu’s support reflect a synergy that has proven effective in driving progress. The naming of the Southern Parkway as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way is a symbolic gesture that underscores the collaborative spirit and shared vision of the current administration.
Conclusion
The commissioning of the Southern Parkway Road marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards progress and development. It highlights the transformative leadership of Nyesom Wike and the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Together, they have demonstrated that with visionary leadership and collaborative effort, significant strides can be made in addressing the infrastructure needs of the nation.
As Abuja continues to grow and develop, the impact of these projects will be felt for generations to come. The success of the Southern Parkway is a testament to what can be achieved when leaders are committed to progress and when the needs of the citizens are placed at the forefront of development efforts.