Tinubu Flags Off Construction of Southern Parkway Service Carriageways

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the construction of Collector Road CO1 in the Institution and Research District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reaffirming his administration's commitment to expanding critical infrastructure and enhancing connectivity within the nation's capital.

The road project, which stretches from the Nile University axis to Ring Road III, is designed to link key academic, legal, and research institutions to Abuja's wider transportation network.

Speaking during the ceremony, President Tinubu described the project as a strategic investment aimed at strengthening the capital city's educational and research ecosystem. He noted that the road forms part of a broader infrastructure plan intended to connect institutions such as Nile University, Baze University, and the Body of Benchers with other parts of the city.

According to the President in a statement by the Deputy Directo, Press, Office of the Minister, Rabi Musa Umar, the first phase of the corridor connecting the Body of Benchers, Nile University, and Baze University has been completed and is ready for commissioning, while the newly flagged-off phase will extend the road to Ring Road III.

"The Institution and Research District was conceived as the intellectual hub of Abuja. This road will improve access, reduce travel time, ease congestion, and support educational and commercial activities in the district," he said.

Tinubu urged contractors handling the project to maintain high standards and ensure timely delivery. He also encouraged them to prioritize the employment of Nigerian youths and artisans to promote skills transfer and economic empowerment.

The President commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for driving infrastructure development across the territory, describing him as "Mr. Projects" whose leadership has transformed the FCT Administration into an efficient project delivery institution.

"Wike has revived abandoned projects, constructed new roads and interchanges, and expanded development to satellite towns. The transformation of Abuja under his leadership is visible and commendable," Tinubu stated.

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In his remarks, Minister Wike explained that the road project was initiated following concerns raised by the Chairman of the Body of Benchers over traffic congestion affecting access to educational institutions and legal facilities in the area.

He disclosed that the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), had assured the FCT Administration that the project would be completed by January 2027.

Wike pledged that the FCTA would continue to provide prompt funding to facilitate smooth execution of the project and dismissed concerns that political activities ahead of future elections could slow ongoing development efforts.

"President Tinubu has directed that all projects must be completed regardless of the political calendar. We remain committed to fulfilling every promise made to residents of the FCT," he said.

Representing the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the Head of the FCTA Civil Service, Nancy Sabanti Nathan, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his support for infrastructure development and commended the National Assembly for approving the necessary funding.

Providing technical details of the project, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, said the project covers approximately six kilometres, including the dualisation of the section between Baze University Junction and Nile University.

He added that the scope of work includes drainage systems, culverts, pedestrian walkways, two bridges, street lighting, and other supporting infrastructure.

CCECC Executive Director, Henry Shao, assured stakeholders of the company's commitment to delivering the project on schedule and in accordance with approved standards.

The Collector Road CO1 project is expected to significantly improve mobility, boost educational activities, and support ongoing urban development within Abuja's Institution and Research District.