In a significant move for Nigeria’s infrastructure development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving national goals.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) in Abuja on Monday, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, highlighted the project’s completion as a testament to what can be achieved when leaders set aside political differences and personal interests.
The newly expanded expressway, extending from Villa Roundabout to Ring Road 1 (RR1), marks a critical development for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
President Tinubu lauded the project, underscoring its potential to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance transportation, and spur economic growth.
“The completion of this project is not only a piece of engineering but a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership,” he stated, attributing the success to the combined efforts of various stakeholders.
Acknowledging the efforts of the FCT administration, particularly Minister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike and his team, Tinubu praised their dedication to rapid development and improving the quality of life for Abuja’s residents.
He noted that the expansion, which includes four new interchanges, will significantly boost connectivity and accessibility within the city.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure, urban planning, and sustainable growth, aligning with his Renewed Hope agenda.
“Under Wike, we have proved to the world that what counts is leadership and what this nation needs is quality leadership,” he remarked.
FCT Minister Wike expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for designating the week as FCT week, highlighting the project’s historical challenges.
Initially awarded in 2013, the road’s completion had been delayed for 11 years. Wike credited the President’s flexibility with the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy for enabling the necessary funding to complete the project.
“Mr President said that every uncompleted project must be completed. Under the Treasury Single Account (TSA), it was very difficult for us to continue with this project, but because the President allowed us to pull out of the TSA, it became easy for us to access funds and pay the contractors who now have confidence in our ability to pay,” Wike stated.
Wike also emphasized ongoing efforts to improve other aspects of the city’s infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of schools. He noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda has reinstated public confidence in the government’s capability to effect meaningful change.
The ceremony saw attendance from notable figures, including Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; House Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud; Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Enoh; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Chairman, Senate Committee on Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation, David Jimkuta; Chairman, House Committee on FCT Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, Hon. Agbedi Fred; Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, and National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.
As President Tinubu urged continued dedication to national development, he expressed optimism about overcoming future challenges and seizing new opportunities. “With determination, perseverance, and a shared sense of purpose, there is no limit to what we can achieve,” he concluded.
