Karu Residents Applaud Tinubu, Wike As 15km FCT Road Project Ends Traffic, Flooding

ABUJA — Residents and commuters along the Karu corridor of the Federal Capital Territory have commended President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, following the completion of a 15-kilometre road project aimed at easing traffic congestion, tackling flooding and improving economic activities in the area.

The completed project, executed by indigenous contractor Abdul-Val Nigeria Limited, stretches from the Karu Interchange on the Abuja-Keffi Expressway to Customs Clinic Junction.

Awarded on August 22, 2025, the project also covers DSS Road, NIA Road, EFCC Road, Primus Hospital Road and Old CBN Quarters Road.

The corridor had previously been notorious for prolonged traffic congestion and flooding, particularly during the rainy season, causing difficulties for residents, motorists, businesses and other road users.

However, residents who spoke on the completed project said the improved road network had significantly transformed movement and commercial activities in the area.

A shop owner, Mrs Chinyere Obasi, said the new infrastructure had positively impacted businesses, particularly with the installation of streetlights.

“Before, the road wasn’t all that good. And there was nothing like the street lights. But now, as you can see, the road is okay. And our businesses, by the grace of God, is even better than before,” she said.

Similarly, a teacher, Anita Ogunwunmi, said the project had reduced her commuting time and made movement easier, especially during rainfall.

“Before, the congestion on the road was so bad. When rain falls like this, we can’t pass here, but now, everywhere is free. It’s better. We are happy,” she said.

A motorist, Johnpaul Adamu, described the transformation as remarkable, particularly the improved road lighting and general infrastructure.

“Now, wow, this is city now. We are happy. The infrastructure is working, there’s streetlights. If you come here by 12 midnight, you’ll think this is afternoon,” he said.

Adamu also praised the FCT Minister’s infrastructure programme, describing Wike as the best minister he had seen in the FCT.

Meanwhile, Project Manager of Abdul-Val Nigeria Limited, Hacı Cengiz, said the project demonstrated the ability of indigenous contractors to execute major infrastructure projects to standard.

Cengiz disclosed that the company had also completed the 18-month Ushafa road project in seven months before undertaking the Karu project.

He added that about 259 workers, predominantly residents of the host community, were employed during the construction.

“Where we are working, we are employing from the community,” he said.

The project manager called for sustained support for indigenous contractors, arguing that their involvement in major projects would help retain technical expertise, equipment and investment within the country.

With the completion of the road, residents now have improved access, better drainage, enhanced visibility at night and easier movement through one of Abuja’s major entry corridors.