The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said ongoing road and water projects in rural communities and satellite towns have helped reduce insecurity and improved access to farmlands across the territory. He made the remarks during a live media chat while reviewing the impact of infrastructure projects carried out by the FCT Administration.
Wike explained that the decision to invest in rural areas followed discussions with traditional rulers, youth groups, women and other community representatives who pointed to poor road networks as one of the factors aiding criminal activities.
According to him, many communities complained that security personnel often struggled to reach troubled areas because several roads were in poor condition.
The minister said the administration acted on the requests made by residents and embarked on the construction of roads identified by the communities themselves.
He noted that the completed projects, especially in Kuje Area Council, have improved movement within the affected areas and made it easier for farmers to reach their farmlands. He added that better road access has also assisted security agencies in responding more effectively to incidents.
Wike stated that the current administration is focused on turning policies into visible projects that residents can benefit from, particularly in communities that had received little attention in the past. He said development efforts are not limited to the city centre, as the government is also committed to providing essential infrastructure in satellite towns.
The minister revealed that President Bola Tinubu will soon commission several projects in different parts of the FCT as part of activities marking the administration’s anniversary.
Among the projects are water schemes located in Kuje, Orozo, Gwagwalada and Dobi, which are expected to improve access to clean water for residents. He disclosed that the projects were executed by CGC and are ready for inauguration, while two area councils have already benefited from similar interventions carried out between 2025 and 2026.
Speaking further, Wike listed several road projects that have been completed or are approaching completion, including the A2-Pai road, roads in Dei-Dei, sections of the A3 highway and the Bwari-Kubwa corridor.
He said work on the Bwari-Kubwa road is expected to be completed before the end of the year. Construction is also continuing on the Abuja airport corridor and the Zuba-Airport link road, projects aimed at easing traffic congestion in the capital.
The minister also announced plans to review the Abuja Master Plan. He disclosed that meetings have been scheduled with the Japanese team that designed the original plan, with discussions expected to begin in July.
According to him, changes in urban development and population growth make it necessary to align the city’s planning framework with present realities.
Wike called on residents and members of the media to support government efforts through useful suggestions and constructive feedback. He said public input can help authorities identify areas that require attention and improve service delivery.
He also disclosed that additional hostel facilities are being built at the Nigerian Law School to improve accommodation and support educational development within the Federal Capital Territory.