By Adeyemi Adekunle
Two years after an investigative report funded by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) which highlighted the dire need for infrastructural development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), a key road project is now set for commissioning.
The 30.4-kilometre road, stretching from the Abuja-Lokoja Expressway to Gomani in Kwali Area Council, is expected to be officially inaugurated in May 2025, according to the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike. The minister made this announcement on Saturday after inspecting the progress of construction work on the road, which has been awarded in two sections—a 15-kilometre stretch from Abuja-Lokoja Expressway to Pai, and another 15.4-kilometre section from Pai to Gomani.
Speaking after his assessment, Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, commending the contractors for demonstrating the capacity to deliver the project on schedule. He emphasized that his administration prioritizes efficiency over sentiment in awarding contracts, ensuring that only competent contractors are engaged in executing critical infrastructure projects.
“That is why I insisted that we will only give out jobs to contractors who show capacity and not based on sentiment,” Wike stated. “I am happy that the communities are happy. You can see how they came out in numbers to celebrate the progress of work so far.”
The announcement of the road’s near completion has been met with excitement from residents of the affected communities, many of whom have endured years of hardship due to poor road conditions. The project’s progress is a testament to the power of investigative journalism in shaping public policy and accelerating infrastructural development.
The ICIR-funded report, which brought national attention to the deteriorating state of roads in the Kwali Area Council, played a crucial role in prompting action from policymakers. The investigation detailed how decades of neglect had left communities cut off, limiting access to essential services, stifling economic opportunities, and endangering lives.
With the road now nearing completion, local businesses and farmers are optimistic about the economic benefits it will bring. Improved road networks mean easier transportation of goods, increased trade, and better access to healthcare and education. The long-awaited infrastructure development is expected to transform the lives of thousands of residents.
Wike also took the opportunity to acknowledge the support of the local communities, commending the area council chairman, youths, and residents for their cooperation in ensuring the smooth execution of the project. He reiterated that details of the formal commissioning would be made public in due course.
As the FCT continues its push for infrastructural development, the Abuja-Kwali road project stands as a significant milestone, not only for the communities it serves but also as an example of how investigative journalism can drive meaningful change.
