Kuje-Gwagwalada road was death trap for decades – Tinubu declares as he commissions phase I dual carriageway

President Tinubu Commissions Kuje-Gwagwalada Dual Carriageway

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on Wednesday that the completion of Phase I of the Kuje-Gwagwalada Dual Carriageway marks a significant improvement for residents and commuters, ending a long history of hardship, insecurity, and economic loss associated with the route.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima during the commissioning ceremony for the 7-kilometer road in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Tinubu emphasized the project’s importance as an economic and security infrastructure. He believes it will transform daily life for residents in Kuje, Gwagwalada, Kwali, and surrounding communities.

“For decades, this road was a death trap,” Tinubu remarked. He added that traders from the region frequently lost goods and time, and in some cases, lives, as they navigated the perilous route. He noted that criminals had taken advantage of the unsafe conditions and that students endured long hours stuck in traffic.

“Today, that story ends,” the President stated.

Tinubu highlighted that the newly constructed highway features solar-powered streetlights, pedestrian walkways, and effective drainage systems, framing it as a multifaceted asset that goes beyond mere infrastructure. He declared it a symbol of safety, commerce, and dignity.

“This corridor links Abuja with three area councils and provides a safe passage to Southern Nigeria,” Tinubu explained. He added that the construction of this road has unlocked agricultural potential and facilitated new residential developments, enhancing safety for women, students, and workers.

The President reiterated that the project exemplifies his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reaffirmed a commitment to extending development efforts beyond Abuja’s city center to surrounding communities.

“My people of Kuje, Gwagwalada, Kwali, and all area councils, hear me clearly: this government sees you. You are not forgotten,” he said. He assured the residents that his administration will continue to improve infrastructure, including roads, water, schools, and hospitals in their communities.

Tinubu also appealed to residents to safeguard public infrastructure and fulfill their civic responsibilities. “Do not build on the median. Do not vandalize solar lights. Pay your taxes and ground rents. When the government works and citizens cooperate, development moves faster,” he urged.

The President praised the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike for his commitment to expanding development in underserved communities. He highlighted Wike’s directive to enhance accessibility and equity in resource distribution within Abuja.

Wike explained that the project was initiated in response to citizen feedback during consultations with traditional rulers and stakeholders across six area councils shortly after the administration took office in 2023. He noted that insecurity and poor road conditions were primary concerns throughout Kuje.

Recounting a personal experience on the road, Wike said, “As we traveled, it took us almost two hours to reach Kuje. The road was in such poor condition that describing it as bad would be an understatement.”

He announced that the Federal Executive Council approved the Kuje-Gwagwalada road project in early 2025 and awarded the contract to Gilmor Engineering Nigeria Limited. Wike expressed satisfaction with the timely completion of Phase I and mentioned that Phase II is scheduled for delivery by December 2026.

“This means easier interaction for residents of Gwagwalada and Kuje, improved business prospects, and expedited access for farmers to markets,” Wike remarked.

Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State for the FCT, described the project as a tangible example of the Renewed Hope Agenda and a testament to the federal government’s dedication to enhancing citizens’ lives through strategic infrastructure investments. She commended Wike for his effective leadership in delivering critical projects across the FCT.

Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department, detailed that the project, which began on February 28, 2025, includes a dual carriageway with two lanes in each direction, a three-span bridge, drainage systems, and solar-powered streetlights. He emphasized that the improvements will enhance access to farming communities, improve the movement of agricultural products, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic growth in Kuje, Gwagwalada, and neighboring areas.

Zulkiflu indicated that the second phase of the project, which will cover an additional six kilometers, is expected to be completed by December 2026, finalizing the upgrade of the Kuje-Gwagwalada road corridor.

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