Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing road projects in Abuja, including the Karu-Customs-CBN Road, Gishiri-Katampe Road, and Apo-Wasa Carriageway, Wike said the new contractor has the capacity to complete the project efficiently.
“Let me tell you the truth, we have terminated that contract; it has been re-awarded to SCC. If you go there now, you will see that they have started work,” he said, expressing dissatisfaction with the previous contractor’s slow pace.
The minister also revealed that the road from Kubwa to Bwari has been awarded and that work has commenced, which he said would serve as an alternative route for commuters.
During the inspection at the Karu site, Wike assured a shop owner whose property was marked for demolition due to obstruction of a water channel that the government would provide adequate compensation. He stressed, however, that public interest must take precedence over emotions.
“You cannot block water channels. We are even sympathetic by saying we will give you money, but we must allow the water to have its way, otherwise it will cause flooding. That will not be good for residents. Sometimes we should not be emotional. She’s crying, but she did the wrong thing,” he said, explaining that the demolition was necessary to prevent flooding in the area.
Wike expressed satisfaction with the warm reception he received from residents in the project areas, noting that it reflected public approval of the government’s development efforts. “What makes the government feel relaxed is when the people are happy. The very essence of governance is to improve the lives of the people,” he said.
He further stated that ongoing road projects would be commissioned during the third-anniversary celebration of President Bola Tinubu. However, he clarified that no new contracts would be awarded in 2026, with the FCTA focusing on completing ongoing projects due to the political calendar.
