The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that any contractor capable of meeting his demanding standards is well-prepared to succeed in any global setting.
Wike made the remark on Wednesday while commissioning the newly completed 16.4-kilometre dualised Ushafa-War College-Army checkpoint road and its adjoining routes in Bwari Area Council.
Reflecting on the project’s early stages, Wike admitted he was initially skeptical of the appointed contractor, Abdul Val.
“When I first heard about the contractor, I asked, ‘Who is Abdul Val?’ I’d never heard of him in the construction space. I was cautious, because road infrastructure is vital for opening up communities and attracting investment,” he said.
To verify the contractor’s capability, Wike ordered a detailed background check.
“I told my Chief of Staff to visit the site, inspect the equipment, and report back. Even after seeing the pictures, I wasn’t convinced. I had to go there myself,” he said.
Despite his initial doubts, Wike emphasized the importance of empowering local businesses.
“This administration is focused on promoting local content. We must invest in our own people. When I visited the site and saw their quality of work, I gave the green light,” he explained.
He noted the intense pressure placed on the contractor to meet the project deadline, which was tied to President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary in office.
“I’ve visited this site over 15 times, even on weekends. I kept calling the contractor and said, ‘If this road isn’t ready for the President to inaugurate, there’ll be consequences.’ I’m a tough person to work with. If you can work with me, you can work anywhere in the world,” Wike declared.
He also commended the Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD) for his unwavering commitment.
“I’ve pushed him relentlessly. I doubt he’s had a proper night’s sleep. If he’s married, I owe his wife an apology. But he hasn’t let me down. He’s demonstrated real capacity and earned our confidence,” Wike said.
Representing President Tinubu at the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima underscored the project’s impact.
“This road has long been a symbol of hardship for commuters, traders, students, and health workers. Today, that story changes. We’re transforming a road of struggle into a corridor of opportunity,” he said.
Shettima added that the road will ease traffic, boost economic activity, and improve access to essential services in Ushafa, Bwari, and surrounding areas.
Advertisement
