FG Completes 13.5km Karshi-Apo Road After 16-Year Delay
The Federal Government has completed the 13.5-kilometre Karshi-Apo Road in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, bringing relief to residents after 16 years of delays, abandoned promises and deteriorating road conditions.
The road, which connects communities including Jikwoyi, Karshi, Wasa and Apo, is expected to ease transportation, reduce travel time and provide motorists with an alternative route to the often-congested Nyanya-Mararaba corridor.
The project, which has recently attracted public attention because of its smooth asphalt surface and scenic landscape, was initially awarded to Kakatar Engineering Limited in 2010/2011 at the cost of N6.4 billion, with a completion period of 20 months.
However, the project remained stalled for more than a decade, prompting the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to terminate the contract in November 2025 over persistent delays and re-award it to SCC Nigeria Limited.
Speaking during an inspection visit to the project site, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said the road was among the inherited projects that had generated widespread complaints from residents.
Wike explained that the decision to terminate the initial contract and award it to SCC Nigeria Limited was informed by the importance of the road and the contractor’s capacity to deliver the project.
He expressed satisfaction with the completion of the road, describing the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) as the biggest beneficiary of the development.
According to the minister, the road would be officially commissioned in November.
The FCTA also confirmed that construction work had been completed, adding that SCC Nigeria Limited mobilised the necessary heavy-duty equipment and delivered the project.
Reacting to the development, a Karshi resident, Eche Ojobe, described the completion of the road as a long-awaited relief for residents, particularly those travelling between Jikwoyi, Karshi and Apo.
He said the improved access would significantly ease transportation challenges in the area.
Another visitor, who declined to disclose her identity, expressed admiration for the road’s landscape, comparing its scenic surroundings to Cape Town, South Africa.
However, another resident, Njideka Agu, called for additional safety measures, including the installation of guardrails, adequate street lighting and security presence to protect motorists, particularly those travelling at night.
The completion of the Karshi-Apo Road marks a significant development in the FCT’s road infrastructure, especially for communities that have endured years of poor access and transportation difficulties.
Attention is now expected to shift towards the official commissioning, proper maintenance and provision of essential safety infrastructure to ensure the road remains durable and secure for motorists.
