Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed the reason behind naming a road in Abuja after renowned author and Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka.
Speaking at the commissioning of the road project, Wike explained that the decision to name the road Wole Soyinka Way was made to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to the country’s progress and development.
The road project, which was commissioned by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, is part of the Full Scope Development of the Arterial Road N20 from Northern Parkway to the Outer Northern Expressway within the Federal Capital City.
According to Wike, the contract for the construction of the road was awarded in 2020 at a cost of N30.6 billion. He expressed gratitude to the contractor for ensuring the timely completion of the project, which has brought relief to residents of the FCT.
In her remarks, the Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, thanked President Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, and members of the Federal Executive Council for their support to the FCT Administration. She also appreciated the contributions of FCDA engineers and the construction team who worked on the project.
The construction of the arterial road has resulted in a safer, more efficient and sustainable transportation network in the FCT, benefiting everyone in the capital city.
The event was also graced by other dignitaries, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.
In related news, Wike had earlier stated that he was told not to appoint certain individuals as ministers, a statement that was seen as a jibe at President Tinubu. However, the two leaders seemed to have put aside their differences as they worked together to commission the road project.