By Becky Momodu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the completed Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) in Abuja, describing Julius Berger Nigeria PLC as a world-class construction company that consistently delivers projects with professionalism and commitment.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the inauguration ceremony, Tinubu commended the engineering firm for completing the Dape District section of the road stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III despite challenging conditions, including heavy rainfall during the event.
The President said the project reflects his administration’s determination to deliver critical infrastructure within set timelines, noting that the road was conceived, funded and completed under the current government.
“We did not inherit this section from previous administrations. We conceived it, funded it and delivered it,” Tinubu said, adding that the project was awarded with a strict 15-month completion deadline and successfully executed.
According to the President, infrastructure remains a key indicator of national development and seriousness of purpose, stressing that no capital city can effectively serve as the seat of government if major projects are stalled by neglect and unfulfilled promises.
He said the completion of the road demonstrates the administration’s commitment to transforming the Federal Capital Territory into a modern and functional capital befitting Nigeria’s status.
Tinubu also praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for driving the implementation of infrastructure projects across Abuja.
“The Honourable Minister has shown what happens when political will meets accountability. We fund projects to see results, not to hear explanations for failure,” he stated.
Speaking at the ceremony, Wike described Julius Berger as a dependable partner that approaches every assignment with seriousness and professionalism.
“One company I know that does not joke when you give them assignment is Julius Berger Nigeria PLC,” the minister said while expressing appreciation to the company’s management for fulfilling their commitment to deliver the project on schedule.
He revealed that the commissioning forms part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration, noting that the FCT had expanded its annual project inauguration programme from nine days in 2024 to 31 days in 2026 due to the growing number of completed projects.
Wike said the administration’s focus on infrastructure development is yielding visible results across the territory, with roads, bridges and other public facilities being completed and commissioned for public use.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Julius Berger said the company successfully executed a technically demanding project requiring extensive engineering expertise and modern construction techniques.
The newly commissioned road is expected to improve connectivity, ease traffic movement and support economic activities within the rapidly developing districts of the Federal Capital Territory. :::