By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure-driven development as he flagged off two major road projects in the Federal Capital Territory aimed at improving mobility, reducing traffic congestion, and boosting economic activities.
The President, who was represented at both ceremonies by Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, said the projects align with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and underscore the government’s commitment to modern infrastructure and improved quality of life for Nigerians.
The projects include the construction of two service carriageways of the Southern Parkway from Arterial Road S20 to Ring Road II in Gaduwa District, as well as the construction of Collector Road CO1 in the Institution and Research District, stretching from the Nile University of Nigeria axis to Ring Road III.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony for the Southern Parkway project, Tinubu described the road as one of the most strategic transport corridors within Abuja’s southern development axis, connecting multiple districts across Phases I to IV of the Federal Capital City.
He noted that while the main carriageway – now known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way – has already been completed and commissioned, the service carriageways will complete the original design and significantly reduce traffic congestion affecting residents of Durumi, Gudu, Gaduwa, Duboyi, and surrounding communities.
“When completed, these service carriageways will reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, shorten travel time, lower transportation costs for businesses, and improve the quality of life for residents. This is the dividend of democracy. This is Renewed Hope in action,” the President said.
Tinubu stated that the project forms part of a wider infrastructure renewal programme that has delivered several critical transportation projects in the FCT, including the N20 Corridor, the N16 Interchange linking Jahi and Gwarimpa, as well as road networks in Kuje, Gwagwalada, and Mabushi.
At the second ceremony in the Institution and Research District, the President said the construction of Collector Road CO1 represents a strategic investment in education, innovation, legal practice, and economic development.
According to him, the road will provide a vital connection for universities, research institutions, legal establishments, and innovation centres to the broader Abuja road network.
“The Institution and Research District was conceived as the intellectual heart of Abuja. However, ideas cannot move if roads do not move. This project will provide critical access, reduce travel time, improve connectivity, and support the growth of a knowledge-driven economy,” he stated.
