The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has assured residents impacted by the construction of the Arterial Road N5 project, stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III, that they will receive fair compensation. Wike made the announcement on Monday during an inspection of ongoing projects in Life Camp, Katampe, and the International Conference Centre in Abuja.
The Arterial Road N5 project, a 4-kilometer six-lane dual carriageway currently under construction by Julius Berger, will connect multiple districts, including Kado, Karmo, Gwarimpa I, Dape, Ido-Gwari, Saburi, and Dei Dei. During the inspection, Wike noted that the project would affect some local homes and cash crops, and he promised compensation to affected individuals within two days. “At Life Camp, our primary objective was to mitigate the effects on local crops and residents, specifically those with homes in the affected area,” he said, adding that the compensation will include relocation or financial support based on feasibility.
Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace of the road construction, highlighting the positive reception from residents along the corridor. He also disclosed an extension in the contract scope for an access road from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway by N16 to Judges Quarters in Katampe District. This extension, linking with N20 (named after Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka), aims to improve connectivity and ensure the road serves a broader purpose beyond its initial endpoint. The contractor, Julius Berger, has committed to completing this expanded project by May 2024.
Additionally, Wike reviewed the renovation progress of the International Conference Centre, expressing contentment with Julius Berger’s quality of work. The project is set for completion by April 2024, with Wike noting, “We will have an International Conference Centre that meets the standard of any global facility.”
Looking ahead, Wike announced that many of these projects are slated for completion and inauguration in May 2025 to mark the second anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The minister also highlighted broader transformations within Abuja’s satellite towns and the city center, aimed at elevating the capital’s standing globally. Beyond infrastructure, Wike shared that over 32 schools in Abuja are undergoing renovation and rehabilitation, underscoring a commitment to improve quality of life for all residents.
