Tinubu Pledges Equitable Development Across FCT at Kuje-Airport Expressway Commissioning

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said his administration will not rest until the dividends of democracy are evenly distributed across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), promising inclusive development for both the city centre and satellite communities.

The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, made the pledge on Thursday in Abuja during the commissioning of the Kuje-Airport Expressway, describing the project as critical to national image, connectivity and economic growth.

He said the government is committed to ensuring that every district and community in the FCT benefits from ongoing development efforts, stressing that the capital must grow as a unified entity.

Highlighting the importance of the airport corridor, Tinubu described it as more than just a road, calling it “the handshake of the Federal Republic of Nigeria” and a key gateway that shapes visitors’ first impression of the country.

“We shall not rest until the dividends of democracy are equitably distributed across the territory, from the ceremonial heart of Abuja to the settlements that sustain its daily life,” he said.

The President outlined plans to deliver improved infrastructure and municipal services, including better roads, safer corridors, enhanced drainage systems, cleaner surroundings and modern facilities that reflect the status of Nigeria as Africa’s largest democracy.

He emphasized that communities around the airport must not be neglected, noting that they are home to diverse groups whose living conditions should mirror the promise of the nation’s capital.

“When the road to the airport works, the economy breathes better. When the communities around it are connected, the people feel seen,” he added.

Tinubu also commended the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for delivering the project, praising his leadership and commitment to completing critical infrastructure.

He urged residents to protect the road, describing public infrastructure as a shared responsibility between government and citizens.

Earlier, Wike said the completion of the expressway has revived economic prospects in Kuje and surrounding areas, noting that the project was a priority demand by residents during consultations with stakeholders across the six area councils.

He added that the road would significantly reduce travel time to the Abuja city centre, boost economic activities and increase property values.

Minister of State for FCT, Mariya Mahmud, described the development as a reflection of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, while the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Administration, Richard Yunana Dauda, said the project includes critical infrastructure such as drainage systems and bridges to improve connectivity within the FCT and neighbouring Nasarawa State.

Other dignitaries at the event included Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, Senator Philip Aduda, and senior government officials.