In continuation of the commissioning of projects lined up to commemorate his one year in office, President Bola Tinubu, has commissioned Extension of the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX), otherwise known as Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Expressway.
Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashmi Shettima at the event on Wednesday, stated that the event was a celebration of the administration’s commitment to Nigeria’s prosperity.
He said: “As we gather here today to commission the extension of the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX) by the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) to the Southern Parkway, we celebrate not just the completion of yet another road project by the FCT Administration, but also the commitment of our administration to engendering progress and prosperity.
His words: “Today’s commissioning is the fourth completed road that we have proudly unveiled in the Federal Capital Territory, all executed in less than one year. I am filled with gratitude to Nyesom Wike and his team, for their dedication and hard work in making this road a reality. These roads are tangible proof of our administration’s vision for a modern, prosperous and inclusive Federal Capital.”
The President recalled that he had promised to prioritise the transformation of infrastructure networks as the means of improving the economy and connecting the people.
He noted that extension of the road was more than just a road, but “symbolises connectivity, accessibility and opportunity.
“It signifies our unwavering determination to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas; ensuring that development is not confined to city centres, but reaches every corner of our great nation,” Tinubu said.
The President continued: “But let us not forget that this is just one of the many projects that have been completed across the FCT. There are still many more strategic projects in the pipeline, each designed to address the evolving needs of our Federal Capital, from upgrading existing infrastructure, initiating new projects, we are laying the ground for a more sustainable and prosperous future.”
Tinubu, again heaped praises on the FCT Minister, saying: “As we celebrate this achievement, it is crucial once again to acknowledge the concerted efforts of the FCT Minister and his team, all stakeholders involved, including private sector partners. As I said the last time, Wike is a force of human nature. Love him, hate him, but you cannot ignore him. Because at every point in time, he is striving to redefine the meaning and concept of leadership.”
The President scored Wike as “one of the best appointments ever made in the history of the current democratic dispensation in this country”.
He, however, stated: “There were loud protests when his name was initially mentioned, but I believe all my brothers and sisters who opposed his appointment are now hailing him. He’s an exemplary leader, worthy of emulation by us all. He is a very mercurial partner, unfortunately, leadership has turned down that tempo. The whole political space is populated by careful friends, friends who….but now he has stopped dancing, he has stopped singing, but he is still performing.”
Tinubu reaffirmed that his administration would “in the coming months and years….continue to prioritise infrastructural development as a cornerstone of our ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.
“We remain committed to delivering on our promises, empowering our people, and building a nation that we can all be proud of”, he added.
Speaking earlier, Wike disclosed that the ISEX road project was awarded in January 2010 at N17 billion, but revised in 2023 to N18 billion; adding that full payment has been made on that project.
“The contractor can attest to the fact that we are not owing a dime as far as this road is concerned. It is fully paid, and it is because of your directive embedded in the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ that, all ongoing projects must be completed and we are happy that the residents of Abuja can see the new look of the Federal Capital Territory,” he reiterated.
The Minister explained that there were some completed projects which were not necessary for inauguratation, but it was important to mention for history’s sake.
According to him, rehabilitation of the first phase of the National Assembly complex and contract has been awarded for the second phase; saying: “But today, because we’ve finished that first phase, they’ve now gone back to their usual chambers, which are the Red chambers and the Green chambers. Now this administration has also awarded the rehabilitation of the second phase.”
Again, before we came, the former administration awarded the rehabilitation of the first phase of the a Federal Secretariat Complex to Julius Berger Nig. Ltd. As I speak to you sir, we have completed this particular project, Wike emphasized.
He also disclosed that resurfacing of roads measuring about 170 kilometers have been carried out in Maitama, Wuse, Asokoro, Garki, Gwarimpa I Districts respectively among others.
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, on her part, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the President; adding that If the world had more people like him, it would make a difference.
