President Bola Tinubu says his administration is prioritising citizens’ needs as the central focus of development efforts.
Tinubu stated this while inaugurating the Southern Parkway Road, from the National Christian Centre to Ring Road I (Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway), named after him, in Abuja on Tuesday.
He said: “The needs of our citizens are paramount in our minds, so for making our citizens the central focus of our development, we believe Nigeria will succeed.
“We recognise the fact that infrastructure is an enabler of jobs, economic development, and prosperity. We believe we are going to achieve all of that.
“The changes FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike made to the FCT – structural and administrative – are yielding results and elevating the hearts of many Nigerians, thank you very much.
“I must recognise your vision that is revolutionary and very inspiring to many of our people.
“Today, we are here to mark a significant milestone in the journey of our nation towards progress and development.”
He commended Wike for giving FCT residents hope in line with his “Renewed Hope” agenda, describing it as a sincere commitment to shared value.
“Once again, our dear landlord, Wike, thank you for bringing life back to our Federal Capital Territory.
“The completion of the Southern Parkway underscores our commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, as we strive to build a world-class capital city.
“Well done; as a team leader, you work so hard and tirelessly. Thank you for being a very good team leader, we all collectively will not let you down,” Tinubu said.
The president commended Wike for naming the road after him, adding that it represents a physical artery that connects vital areas within FCT.
He added that the road also symbolised his administration’s aspirations for connectivity, ease of livelihood, accessibility, and progress.
The president also said that by providing a seamless and efficient transportation corridor, the road would not only ease traffic congestion but also enhance mobility and creativity for the residents and visitors to FCT.
Earlier, Wike explained that the development of the Southern Parkway, now Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way, at par with the Northern Parkway, was awarded in December 2010 to Setraco Nigeria Ltd. at N16.23 billion.
He added that the cost of the project was later revised to N35.76 billion in March 2021 due to changes in scope and other economic indices.
He explained that the road would provide freeway access and connectivity to the Southern development flank of the city as provided in the Abuja Master Plan. (NAN)
