The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has flagged off the rehabilitation of 73 Government Secondary Schools and the reconstruction of the 15-kilometre Old Keffi Road in Abuja, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony held on Tuesday, Wike said the projects are part of President Tinubu’s commitment to improving public infrastructure and delivering better living standards to Nigerians, especially in the nation’s capital.
“Out of 103 Government Secondary Schools in the FCT, 73 are currently under rehabilitation, and 33 more projects will begin soon,” Wike revealed.
He added that the school upgrades and road constructions are designed to ensure a better learning environment for students and to enhance mobility and economic activities across the FCT.
The 15km Old Keffi Road, which runs from Kado Village to Dei-Dei, is expected to ease traffic, connect major communities, and improve business links in the area. Wike noted that the road project follows the successful rehabilitation of the Saburi 1 and Saburi 2 roads, which were among the first emergency projects approved by President Tinubu in 2023.
“When we opened the Saburi Road, I said it would only be complete if the Old Keffi Road was also fixed. Today, we are here to make that promise a reality,” Wike declared.
He also announced that the Lubrik Construction Company, the same firm that handled the Saburi roads, will be responsible for the Old Keffi Road due to their proven track record and quality service.
Wike used the occasion to commend the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Chairman, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, describing him as a “true representative” of the people. He urged residents to continue supporting leaders who are committed to grassroots development.
“We gave others a chance before, and they failed. If we return them to power, they will destroy everything. Support those who are working for you,” Wike said.
The Minister also announced that 27 more project flag-offs will take place across Abuja in the coming weeks, calling it an unprecedented milestone in the FCT’s development history.
He directed the construction company to ensure that local residents are employed in the execution of the road project so that nearby communities can also benefit economically.
“We don’t want to see people brought from outside to work. Employ those who live here so that they too can feed their families,” he instructed.
On her part, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised President Tinubu for supporting projects that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians. She described the Old Keffi Road as a “lifeline” for many communities, adding that its reconstruction will reduce travel time, boost commerce, and improve safety.
“This project is in line with the administration’s goal of inclusive development and improved connectivity. It shows that we are serious about delivering infrastructure that works,” she said.
Dr. Mahmoud also thanked Wike for his focused and hands-on leadership, saying his drive has brought renewed energy to governance in the FCT.
The Renewed Hope Agenda, one of President Tinubu’s key policy blueprints, aims to restore public confidence in government through meaningful reforms and infrastructure development. Under this initiative, several projects have been launched across sectors including education, roads, transport, and healthcare.
Residents of the affected areas welcomed the announcement with excitement, noting that both the road and school projects have been long overdue. Many expressed hope that the initiatives would not only transform the physical environment but also create jobs and reduce hardship.
