The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike announced that traders operating at the Apo Mechanic Village will be required to relocate to facilitate the ongoing construction of the left-hand service carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX). The announcement was made during an inspection of the roadworks, underscoring the government’s commitment to public interest over individual business operations.
This is coming 25 years after their arrival at the current place known as Apo Mechanic village in Abuja. Their movement started from from Garki to NEPA Junction, before moving down to the present Buffer Zone, Apo Mechanic Village. Nearly four decades this mechanic hub has seen various moves from one geographical areas to another. But again, the FCT ministry says it’s time for the traders to relocate to their promised land, Wasa.
The Apo Mechanic Village, a bustling hub for mechanics and auto parts traders, sits directly along the corridor designated for the OSEX project, which stretches from Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway) to Wasa Junction. During his visit on Tuesday, Wike emphasized the necessity of the relocation, reinforcing that the move is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to improve road connectivity not only in the heart of the city but also in satellite towns.
“The committee is doing their work. You know that the road is going to pass through that area, so that is not going to be a problem,” Wike remarked, addressing concerns about the impact on local traders. “We have told them that when we get to that point, they have no choice but to leave for the interest of everybody. It’s not for anybody’s particular interest. It’s for the public.”
The minister’s comments come at a time when the FCTA is striving to bolster infrastructural development, with an eye towards modernizing the region’s road network.
As part of this larger vision, Wike revealed that the ongoing projects across satellite towns will be equipped with solar street lights, marking a significant upgrade to the existing infrastructure that aims to improve safety and accessibility for all residents.
The relocation plan for the Apo Mechanic Village is being managed by an experienced committee, which Wike affirmed is actively working on identifying a suitable permanent site in Wasa for the displaced traders.
“They are already aware that the road project will pass through the area, and we do not foresee any problems with their relocation,” he added, indicating a structured approach to minimizing disruption for local businesses.
As the construction progresses, the minister highlighted the positive impact the expansion of road infrastructure will have on economic activities within the FCT, projecting a future where improved road connectivity can lead to enhanced trade, mobility, and overall quality of life for residents.
“This is not just about roads; it’s about creating opportunities,” Wike stated, underscoring the broader economic implications of the infrastructure developments. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is working, it’s a reality. People can see with their eyes,” he concluded.
As the Apo Mechanic Village prepares for this inevitable transition, the minister’s reassurance aims to alleviate apprehensions among traders while emphasizing the greater benefits poised to follow such infrastructural advancements.
The FCT ministry says it remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that all areas, including satellite towns, are equipped with modern road systems that cater to the needs of the populace. The coming months will be crucial in realizing these ambitions as work on the OSEX and related projects continues at a brisk pace.
