Tinubu Urges FCT Residents to Pay Taxes for More Projects

President Bola Tinubu has called on residents and business owners in the Federal Capital Territory to regularly pay their taxes, land charges and ground rents, saying government needs public cooperation to sustain the pace of infrastructure development across Abuja and its surrounding communities.

The President made the appeal during the inauguration of the completed Arterial Road N5, also known as Obafemi Awolowo Way, which connects Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Dape District. He was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Tinubu said government alone cannot drive development without the support of citizens. According to him, payments made by residents and businesses provide resources needed to fund roads, public facilities and other projects that improve daily life.

He described the newly completed road as an important route that would improve movement within the capital city, reduce traffic challenges and support economic activities. The President noted that the project forms part of efforts to improve connectivity between several districts in Abuja.

Tinubu recalled that part of the road project was commissioned in June 2025 and stated that his administration had now completed the remaining section as promised. He said the project reflected his government’s commitment to ensuring that public projects are completed instead of being abandoned.

According to him, the road was conceived, funded and delivered under his administration after construction began in October 2024. He said the contract was awarded to Julius Berger Plc with a clear timeline for completion, adding that his government remains committed to delivering projects within set deadlines.

The President praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for overseeing the execution of projects across Abuja. He also commended Julius Berger for delivering the road project within the agreed schedule.

Tinubu stated that the completed corridor would improve access between Dape, Karmo, Gwarinpa I, Kado, Idu and Mbora districts. He added that the road would also provide easier access to the Idu Industrial District, creating opportunities for businesses, reducing transportation costs and encouraging investment.

He further urged community leaders, traditional rulers and residents to help protect public infrastructure from vandalism and ensure proper maintenance of facilities such as drainage channels and streetlights.

Speaking at the event, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike said the inauguration formed part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration. He explained that the number of projects being commissioned in the FCT has continued to increase since the administration took office.

According to Wike, project commissioning activities lasted nine days during the administration’s first anniversary and nineteen days during the second anniversary, while this year’s programme is expected to span thirty-one days.

The minister credited the President for providing the support needed to carry out development projects across Abuja. He said many satellite towns that previously lacked government presence are now benefiting from infrastructure projects.

Wike also commended Julius Berger for delivering both phases of the road project within a short period. He disclosed that the Gwarinpa section was completed within seven months.

On compensation issues arising from the project, the minister maintained that affected property owners received compensation where necessary during the construction process. He dismissed complaints from some protesters at the event and insisted that the administration had remained focused on delivering projects that benefit residents.

Also speaking, Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, described the road project as another achievement of the administration’s development programme. She said the project would improve transportation, encourage business activities and support the growth of communities within the territory.

Mahmoud also appreciated residents, traditional rulers and community leaders in Life Camp, Dape and neighbouring areas for their cooperation during the construction period. She expressed confidence that the road would contribute to economic growth and improve the quality of life for people living in the affected communities.