By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
President Tinubu said yesterday that the ongoing infrastructure development across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is a testament to his administration’s commitment to building a ‘’city that works for everyone.’’
This, he explained, is the reason his administration would continue to fund life-impacting projects in the FCT.
“Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone. Our vision for Abuja is not limited to its glittering centre. We are equally committed to its outskirts, to its margins and to its hidden corners where dreams often struggle to breathe,’’ the President added.
Tinubu spoke at the inauguration of the Collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) from Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) to Arterial Road N1 and other connecting Roads in the Dakibiyu District of Jabi, Abuja.
The President, who was represented at the event by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, said that working capital cities show the presence of purposeful governments.
His words: “The roads are a bold signature of our administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalisation.
“Every road we build, every bridge we complete, every community we connect is a firm step towards a more inclusive, more equitable Nigeria.’’
The President added that a modern and functional city “inspires confidence, attracts investment and most importantly, restores the dignity of those who call it home.” He stressed that a nation’s functional capital serves as the foundation upon which a functioning country is built.
“That is why today’s occasion is not just about commissioning a road. It is a grand reassurance that cities must work for their people and that a functioning capital is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built.
“The capital of this great nation must reflect the strength and dignity of all who call it home. We are determined to ensure that development knows no postcode, that governance does not discriminate, and that the dignity of our citizens is not defined by their geography.
“When a city works, when its roads are paved, when its lights stay on and when its arteries flow without congestion, it tells the world that its government is not just present but purposeful.
“ With the roads being built and inaugurated, commuting will be shortened and congestion will ease. Most crucially, livelihoods will flourish, Shops will open and markets will thrive. Children will reach school faster. Emergency services will arrive quicker.
“This is what we mean when we speak of Renewed Hope. Not lofty rhetoric but practical impact. Not policy for the sake of politics, but policy translated into progress. This is Renewed Hope poured into concrete and paved across kilometres.”
Tinubu pointed out that while inadequate infrastructure had choked the aspirations of many areas, the inauguration of the roads would breathe life into communities in Dakibuyi that had been waiting to be seen and served.
The President praised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his team at the FCTA over what he described as their outstanding work.
He said that Wike’s “sense of urgency in the execution of these projects is well known to Nigerians.
“ This administration remains steadfast in its support for the FCTA. We will continue to provide the resources, policy backing, and institutional cooperation needed to ensure that projects like these are delivered on time and to the highest standards. Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone,” Tinubu added.
Earlier, the FCT minister thanked the Tinubu-led Federal Executive Council for approving the project, which began in October 2024.
Wike explained that the project became necessary due to the terrible state of the road leading to several government institutions in the area.
“Your Excellency, I thank you for your continued support, and we will continue to solicit more,” he said.
Also, FCT Minister of State Mariya Mahmud lauded President Tinubu for his continued support to the FCTA and the nation at large.
Secretary of the Police Service Commission (PSC) Onyemuche Nnamani also extolled President Tinubu for his bold steps in infrastructural development.