TRANSFORMATION OF RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN FCT

Beyond the urban development of Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory Administration, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, is undertaking a significant transformation of rural infrastructure. For years, farming communities across Abaji, Kwali, Kuje, Bwari, Gwagwalada, and the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) grappled with inadequate road networks. These poor roads limited access to essential services like markets and healthcare, and often led to produce perishing before reaching buyers, especially during the rainy season.

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On the impact of the newly completed road network, many residents noted that unlike in the past, today, transport costs have reduced, buyers come directly to farms, and farmers earn better income from their produce.

Now, the narrative is shifting. The construction and rehabilitation of strategic roads are creating new economic pathways, linking previously isolated communities to urban centers. Projects like the Airport–Kuje Road, the Kuje–Gwagwalada Dual Carriageway, and rural access roads in Kwali and Abaji are directly improving the livelihoods of thousands, especially farmers who are vital to the rural economy. An access road near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport has also been commissioned.

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Similarly, improved road access has significantly reduced post-harvest losses and our children now get to school more easily, healthcare services are more accessible, and traders come directly to our community to purchase farm produce. The road has brought development closer to the people.

Residents report tangible benefits: reduced transport costs, direct access for buyers to farms, and better income from produce. Improved roads also mean fewer post-harvest losses, easier school access for children, and more accessible healthcare. The Kuje–Gwagwalada Dual Carriageway, a project long awaited since the early 2000s, represents a fulfilled promise, easing transportation, boosting business, and restoring confidence in development reaching these communities. For indigenous groups, such as those around Tungan Madaki who ceded land for the airport's second runway, the new access road signifies inclusion and renewed connectivity.

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For many years, successive administrations talked about it, but little progress was made. Today, we can see and use the road. Beyond easing transportation, it has improved business activities, reduced travel time, and given residents renewed confidence that development is reaching our communities.