MINISTER of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike says the completed Apo-Karshi Road would be transformed into a major tourist destination in Abuja.
Wike announced the plan after he inspected the completed road project on Wednesday, describing the achievement as testament of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructural development.
The minister said that the newly finished road, carved through challenging terrain, has already captured public admiration and spurred heavy traffic from curious visitors eager to see the transformation firsthand.
Noticing the natural aesthetic appeal of the newly accessible landscape, Wike confirmed that the FCT Administration intends to capitalise on the site’s unique topography to develop dedicated tourism infrastructure.
He assured that specialised departments were already tasked with designing a tourist facility for the area.
“There will be facilities that we have to put in this place. The department responsible for tourism will come up with what the government needs to put in place, but be assured that we will make it happen as a tourist center,” he said.
He explained that the road, originally awarded to an indigenous contractor in 2010, suffered over a decade of delays despite significant financial outlays.
The minister explained that the persistent failure to deliver led to presidential intervention.
“We did all we could to persuade the contractor then to see that the job was fully implemented, but nothing was forthcoming.
“When it was brought to the attention of Mr President, considering the importance of this road, Tinubu directed that the contract be terminated and awarded to a more competent contractor,” he said.
He said that the project was subsequently re-awarded to construction firm SCC, noting that despite public skepticism regarding the contract cost, the administration remained focused on the comfort of residents.
He commended the contractor for delivering on its promise to finish the project by November.
Wike said that the Apo-Karshi link is one of 10 to 12 major infrastructural projects lined up for official inauguration across the capital.
Wike said that given the high public anticipation and the impact of the Apo-Karshi road, the FCT Administration plans to request an expedited inauguration date from the Presidency, potentially before the end of the month.
Reflecting on the widespread positive reception on social media and on the ground, the minister noted that the project underscores the administration’s broader vision for the nation’s capital.
“Look at what is going on in Abuja today; look at the level of infrastructure. I am happy that people are happy, and that Nigerians have indeed seen the infrastructural development carried out by this present administration,” he said. (NAN)
