- Minister Nyesom Wike expressed doubts about the contractor’s ability to complete the long-delayed Apo-Karshi Road project by the April deadline
- Wike emphasized the road’s importance for alleviating traffic congestion and promised further funding if significant progress is made during inspections
On Thursday, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, expressed doubts about the contractor responsible for the long-delayed Apo-Karshi Road project.
The 13.25-kilometer road, awarded in 2011 at a cost of N6.4 billion, has been under construction for over a decade. Despite ordering the contractor back to work months ago, Wike was dissatisfied with the current progress during his latest visit.
He noted, “We expected the road to be completed within seven months, but the contractors couldn’t mobilize earlier due to procurement issues. Thankfully, we have moved past that, and they are now back on site.”
However, Wike still voiced scepticism about the contractor’s ability to meet the April deadline. He added, “I won’t lie, I still have my doubts, but the company insists the project will be finished by then.”
Wike emphasized the road’s importance, noting that its completion would alleviate traffic congestion and stimulate economic growth in the area. He urged the contractors to ramp up their efforts, promising that he would authorise further funding if significant progress is made. “The funds are available. If I see improvement during my next visit, I will instruct the treasury to release more funds. But for now, we are watching closely.”
During the same inspection, Wike visited the Nyanya-Karu-Orozo Road, where emergency repairs are underway. The 18-kilometer road, known for its traffic gridlock, caught his attention. He also noted that President Bola Tinubu had approved immediate repairs following Wike’s request.
Wike assured that the rehabilitation would be completed within eight months.