Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that national development should not come at the expense of citizens, asserting that no individual should be made a victim in the process of national progress. Tinubu made this statement in Abuja during the inauguration of a newly constructed seven-kilometre access road from Apport Road (Bill Clinton Drive) to Tungan Madaki, which bypasses the second runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu highlighted the road’s significance in reconnecting communities previously isolated from the Federal Capital Territory’s economic hub.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices made by the original inhabitants who voluntarily gave up their ancestral lands for the airport’s second runway construction. Despite their contributions, these communities had been left without a motorable road. Tinubu expressed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that such communities are not only compensated but also see an improvement in their standard of living. He reiterated his directive to the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, to fulfill the communities’ requests for improved living conditions.
The President described the seven-kilometre road as more than just a piece of infrastructure, but an economic lifeline that will alleviate traffic congestion, particularly along Bill Clinton Drive, and facilitate easier access for airport users and travelers. The road is expected to unlock economic opportunities for Tungan Madaki and surrounding areas, enabling farmers to transport produce, children to access education, and businesses to operate without hindrance.
Tinubu applauded Wike and his team for their swift execution of the project, which began in February 2025 and was completed in just 16 months. He characterized this efficiency as the benchmark for his administration, committed to delivering infrastructure that serves the people effectively.
In his remarks, Wike noted the community’s preference for infrastructure over monetary compensation, which the administration fulfilled by providing road access and job opportunities. He expressed satisfaction that the project has restored the community’s faith in government, demonstrating tangible governance and improving access to urban areas. Wike also announced plans to extend the road to Zuba by December, cautioning against land grabbing and promising to issue Certificates of Occupancy to community members to secure their lands.
Wike concluded by emphasizing the project’s role in connecting Abuja Municipal Area and Gwagwalada Area Councils, thereby enhancing access to the airport from Zuba and contributing to the overall development of rural communities.