President Tinubu commends Wike as Abuja’s Arterial Road N5 is inaugurated to ease traffic and boost infrastructure in key districts
Arterial Road N5 inauguration has been described as a major milestone in the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s capital city, with President Bola Tinubu commending the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, for aligning with his vision of building a world-class capital.
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Speaking in Abuja on Friday during the commissioning of the first phase of Arterial Road N5, also known as Obafemi Awolowo Way, Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, highlighted the strategic impact of the road project.
The inaugurated segment runs from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III, serving as a crucial link through Dape, Gwarimpa 1, Kado, Karsana, Idu and Mbora districts.
Describing the project as a symbol of vision translated into tangible achievement, the President noted, “It reflects on our commitment to deliver a modern infrastructure that improves the daily lives of our people.”
He added that the road will significantly ease traffic flow and reduce gridlock around the Life Camp axis and nearby communities.
The project, which forms part of Tinubu’s second-year celebration in office, was awarded by the Federal Executive Council in September 2024.
Work commenced in October under Julius Berger, with the contract split into two phases. Wike confirmed that the second phase would be completed and inaugurated before the end of 2025.
Acknowledging the inconvenience caused by construction, Wike urged residents to remain patient, emphasising that lasting development often comes with short-term disruptions.
He commended affected residents for their understanding, particularly those who gave up properties for the project.
Compensation, he stated, had been paid in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, covering both indigenes and non-indigenes.
The minister also revealed that discussions are ongoing with community leaders regarding further compensation, with a view to extending the road to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Earlier, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Mr Richard Dauda, explained the significance of Arterial Road N5 within the city’s Master Plan.
He said the eight-lane highway—comprising a six-lane dual carriageway and parking lanes—cuts across the Central Business District, International Conference Centre, NPC Towers, and several key residential and commercial districts.
“This road traverses multiple development phases, including Wuse, Utako, Jabi, Dape and Gwarinpa, with future plans to extend it into Phase IV,” Dauda said.
Tinubu also extended gratitude to the National Assembly and the FCT community for supporting the capital’s infrastructural development and reaffirmed his commitment to sustained transformation in the territory.
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With the inauguration of this vital arterial link, Abuja moves one step closer to fulfilling its urban vision—where modern infrastructure drives connectivity, investment and quality of life.