Tinubu: Karu Road Project Will Boost Economy, Ease Congestion In Abuja’s Satellite Towns

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President Bola Tinubu on Monday said the rehabilitation and expansion of the Karu township road network in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is designed to stimulate economic activities, ease chronic traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for residents.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated and expanded roads from Karu Interchange to Customs Clinic Junction and adjoining roads, the President described the project as a practical demonstration of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and its commitment to extending infrastructure development beyond the city centre.

According to Tinubu, the Karu corridor, one of the busiest gateways linking the FCT with neighbouring states, had for years suffered severe traffic congestion that undermined productivity and economic growth.

“By expanding and rehabilitating these roads, we are not just laying asphalt; we are injecting life back into the local economy,” the President said.

He noted that the upgraded road network would significantly reduce travel time, eliminate persistent traffic gridlock and create a more conducive environment for businesses operating within the densely populated satellite town.

“When we took office three years ago, we recognised that true development must reach where the people actually live, work and commute,” he added.

Tinubu also highlighted the installation of solar-powered streetlights along the corridor as part of efforts to enhance security, improve visibility and ensure safer movement for motorists and pedestrians.

The President commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for driving the rapid transformation of Abuja through sustained investment in infrastructure.

“The rapid physical transformation across Abuja could not have happened without the dogged, relentless and focused supervision of the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike. His aggressive implementation of our urban renewal master plan is visible for everyone to see,” he said.

He added that the administration’s decision to prioritise strategic satellite towns alongside the city centre reflects its commitment to ensuring that infrastructure development benefits all residents regardless of social or economic status.

Tinubu also praised Abdul-Val Constructions Limited for delivering the project on schedule, describing the company as proof that indigenous firms possess the technical capacity to execute projects that meet international standards.

Speaking at the event,the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr Nyesom Wike, urged residents to acknowledge developmental projects irrespective of political affiliations, insisting that infrastructure should be appreciated as a collective public good.

“It doesn’t matter the political party you belong to or the association you belong to. When you see a good thing, say it is a good thing,” the minister said.

“Whether anybody likes President Tinubu or not, nobody can hate this road. Opposition members use it, those in government use it, and even those who are not politicians use it.”

He assured residents that every district and community in the FCT would continue to benefit from the administration’s infrastructure programme.

The minister also commended Abdul-Val Constructions Limited, describing the indigenous contractor as a reliable partner that remained committed to the project despite funding delays.

“For this local contractor, I have seen that whether the money is there or not, he never abandons the site. He believes in this government and continues working because he knows payment will eventually come,” Wike said.

Earlier, the Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department, Mr Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, explained that the project, awarded in August 2025, covers the road linking Karu Interchange on the Abuja-Keffi Expressway to Customs Clinic Junction, as well as the DSS Road, NIA Road, EFCC Road, Hospital Road and Old CBN Quarters Road.

He said the project would improve accessibility, ease traffic flow, strengthen drainage infrastructure and enhance security within Karu and adjoining communities.

“Karu is one of the most populated satellite towns in the FCT, and with this road, residents can access the city centre in less than 10 minutes,” Zulkiflu said.