President Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday in Abuja, inaugurated the Southern Parkway project.
Presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, in the statement on Tuesday in Abuja, said the project would serve as a critical artery connecting major areas within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at the inauguration, Tinubu described infrastructure development as an enabler of economic growth and prosperity, stating that his administration would sustain investments in critical sectors for the welfare of citizens.
The president commended Minister of FCT Nyesom Wike, for his diligence and courageous efforts, noting the recent infrastructural developments in the city.
“I understand the Southern Parkway not only represents a physical artery that connects vital areas within the FCT but symbolizes our collective aspiration for connectivity, ease of livelihood, accessibility, and progress.
“By providing a seamless and efficient transportation corridor, this road will not only ease traffic congestion but will also enhance mobility for residents and visitors to the FCT.
“The completion of the Southern Parkway underscores our commitment to inclusive and sustainable development as we strive to build a world-class Capital City.
“The needs of our citizens are paramount in our thoughts and actions. By making our citizens the central focus of our development, we believe Nigeria will succeed,” the president said.
Explaining the significant features of the project, Wike said that the road consists of 12 lanes in total.
“Your Excellency to bring the level of development of the Southern Parkway on par with the Northern Parkway, this project was awarded in December 2010 to Setraco Nigeria Limited at the contract sum of N16.2 billion.
‘It was later revised to N35.7 billion due to changes in scope and other economic indices. But this was done before this administration came in.
“The scope of work is made up of two main carriage ways of four lanes each and two service carriage ways of two lanes each, making a total of 12 lanes.
”It also includes the construction of four interchanges, a total of eight bridges in addition to the position of associated underground engineering facilities.
“I am happy to inform Your Excellency that the project is now completed in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” the minister said.
Wike said the completion of the project would enhance traffic circulation around the city centre, reducing delays and travel time.
According to him, it will also accelerate the development of the Southern Axis of the city, bringing improved socio-economic benefits to residents and other Nigerians.
“The Federal Capital Territory Administration and FCT residents appreciate Mr. President’s support and laudable achievements.
“It is in this regard and for many other patriotic persuasions that the FCT Administration hereby humbly resolve that this very important road be named Bola Ahmed Tinubu way,” the minister said.
The Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Shehu Ahmad, explained that the Parkway System forms an integral part of the network of roads in the transportation master plan of the FCT.
“It dissects the two development corridors and is planned to function as a freeway to optimize vehicular movement between the developed sectors and the Central Area.
“Within the Central Area, the Parkway System encloses the cultural axis. In the Northern Development Corridor, it is known as the Northern Parkway (A9).
“It begins at the city centre around the Inner Northern Expressway, near the National Mosque and the Shehu Yar’Adua Centre intersection.
‘’It traverses Phases 1 to 4 in the north of the city, ending at the Outer Northern Expressway Junction, near the Dei Dei area, for those familiar with Abuja. It covers a total length of 25 kilometres.
“In the Southern Development Corridor, the Parkway System starts from the City Centre at its intersection with the Inner Southern Expressway.
“It passes through Phases 1 to 4 of the south of the city and ends at the Inner Southern Expressway near Kuje, located in Phase 4, spanning a total length of about 27 kilometres,” Ahmad said.
