The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, on Friday declared that Rivers State remains a beacon of hope, attributing his political success to the strong support of his followers. Speaking at the commissioning of the Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III (RR3), Wike also reassured Abuja residents of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to their safety and development.
The commissioning was conducted by Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, on behalf of the president.
“I can assure everybody particularly Abuja residents that the kind of development you will see under President Bola Tinubu’s administration would be such that at the end of the day you would attest to the fact that indeed, there are people who mean well for this country,” Wike said.
He acknowledged the wide-ranging support he receives from Nigerians across multiple states, saying, “Each time we are doing something in Abuja, all my friends from my state, from your state, from Abia to Enugu, Sokoto and Cross River, name them, they all come.”
Wike emphasized the importance of this support, stating, “If I had come out alone, nobody would reckon with me. They would look at me and say, forget him, there is no hope. I don’t think anybody will look at me and say that there is no hope for Rivers State.”
On the road project, Wike explained that the first phase, awarded by the Federal Executive Council in September last year and flagged off in October, is now complete. He expressed hope that the second phase, which will link the road to the airport, will be commissioned before the end of the year. “I have initiated discussions with villagers on the route with a view to constructing the road and linking it to the airport,” he added.
Senator Akume praised the road as a product of visionary leadership that will enhance Abuja’s infrastructure and ease traffic congestion in several districts. He urged residents to cherish and protect the new road. “To Abuja residents and indeed all Nigerians, this is your road. Own it, use it wisely, protect it and celebrate it,” he concluded.