By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road I Junction to Ring Road II Junction in Abuja, describing the project as a key component of his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony along the OSEX-Wasa Road corridor, the President said the road project represented more than the construction of physical infrastructure, stressing that it was part of efforts to build a stronger economy and improve the quality of life for Nigerians.
“We didn’t promise shortcuts. We promised hard work. We promised a renewed hope that is tangible—hope that you can see, hope that you can feel, and hope that you can drive on,” Tinubu said.
The President noted that infrastructure remained central to unlocking economic opportunities, creating jobs and easing the movement of people and goods. According to him, investments in roads and other public facilities are critical to enhancing productivity and stimulating development.
Tinubu recalled that his administration had steadily advanced work on the OSEX project since assuming office. He noted that in June 2024, the government commissioned the first phase of the expressway from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road I Junction, including its interchanges, while the 15-kilometre left-hand service carriageway was inaugurated in 2025.
He said the commissioning of the main carriageway from Ring Road I to Ring Road II marked another significant milestone in the completion of the strategic transport corridor.
“We don’t start projects to abandon them. The era of uncompleted projects in Nigeria is fading away. We finish what we start,” the President declared.
Tinubu commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for what he described as his focused leadership and commitment to transforming Abuja through infrastructure development.
“The structural transformation we are witnessing in the Federal Capital Territory is a testament to what happens when you have focus, vision and dynamic leadership,” he said.
The President praised Wike and his team for ensuring that contractors remained committed to delivering projects on schedule, adding that the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda was centred on achieving measurable results for Nigerians.
According to Tinubu, the newly completed carriageway will significantly improve mobility within the nation’s capital, reduce traffic congestion and lower transportation costs.
He said the road would provide a seamless connection between the Apo District and Wasa, opening up new areas for residential, commercial and industrial development while expanding Abuja’s economic footprint.
The President highlighted the anticipated benefits of the project, including reduced travel time, fuel savings and increased business opportunities for residents and investors.
He also expressed appreciation to engineers, construction workers, planners, traders and host communities along the corridor for their patience and support throughout the construction period.
“To the engineers, the labourers, traders, the planners and the communities along this corridor who endured the dust and the diversions, thank you. Your sacrifices are not in vain,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development nationwide, Tinubu assured Nigerians that government would continue to invest in roads, transportation networks and other critical projects across the country.
“We will continue to build, we will continue to reform, and we will continue to invest in the future of our people,” he stated.
The President thereafter formally declared the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway from Ring Road I Junction to Ring Road II Junction open for public use.
