By Nehemiah Anini | The Chronicles of Construction
In a whirlwind inspection tour across key infrastructure sites in the Federal Capital Territory, the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, delivered a clear message: performance is non-negotiable.
The minister, during an exclusive interaction with The Chronicles of Construction, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the slow progress on the Pai–Gumani–Yangoji Road, a critical link expected to open up rural communities and significantly improve mobility within the territory.
While Wike commended the impressive work at the newly completed Secretariat Bus Terminal — a modern facility he described as “surpassing even the Mabushi and Kugbo bus terminals” — his tone shifted sharply when the tour moved to the Pai–Gumani–Yangoji axis.
“This road was awarded before the A2–Pai Road, which has been completed and delivered,” he noted, visibly concerned. “But here, the progress is unacceptably slow.”
The minister attributed the delay to poor communication between the developer and the contractor, coupled with issues surrounding contract variations.
“Some parties think they can proceed without approvals. That is unacceptable. We will revisit this matter,” he said firmly.
Wike announced that the 13-kilometre Gumani–Gamji stretch has now been reassigned to Setraco, the same company that delivered quality work on the A2–Pai project.
He expressed confidence that Setraco would replicate their proven excellence.
“I believe they will give us the kind of work we expect — timely and of high quality,” he emphasized.
One of the strongest themes of Wike’s remarks was the administration’s deliberate investment in satellite towns — communities often overlooked in past development cycles.
“For the first time, satellite towns are being prioritized,” he said.
“People who criticize us should come and see the transformation happening. I am proud of what this administration is achieving — not just in the city, but across rural areas.”
The minister urged the journalists present to tell these stories truthfully, noting that many rural residents are seeing development for the first time under the current leadership.
Wike also offered updates on several vital projects:
- Apo–Karshi Road: Previously terminated, now reassigned to LCC — work progressing rapidly.
- Kubwa–Bwari Road: Newly awarded to LCC, with construction already underway.
- Zuba–Kubo Axis: Significant repairs ongoing, crucial due to the presence of multiple quarry operations.
He expressed satisfaction with the level of infrastructure investment being deployed under the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as “substantial, intentional, and long overdue.”
“I am delighted with the advancement happening across the satellite towns,” Wike concluded. “This administration is making the right investments at the right time.”
