By Remi Johnson
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has flagged off the construction of the Southern Parkway service carriageways from Arterial Road S20 (Oladipo Diya Way) to Ring Road 2 in Abuja, with a six-month completion timeline.
The Southern Parkway which serves as a major transportation corridor linking different phases of Abuja, stretches from the Inner Southern Expressway in Phase One ,extends through the Southern Development Corridor into Phase Four, and is expected to complement the already completed main carriageway.
The project is expected to bring relief to residents of Durumi, Gudu, Gaduwa, Duboyi, and surrounding districts currently experience severe traffic congestion, particularly during peak periods.
Performing the flag-off ceremony in Abuja, President Tinubu, represented by the Chairman All Progressives Congress, APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda ,
described the commencement of the road as another demonstration of the administration’s commitment to action-driven governance, rather than excuses.
Tinubu explained that the project is designed to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity within the southern corridor of the FCT, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda ,aimed at transforming critical infrastructure across the country.
“Fellow Nigerians, three years in this administration, the reforms are tough, but necessary. The results are here. The roads and bridges, the rails and housing, we are laying foundation for a new Nigeria that works, and works for all, and for our common prosperity. Stay with us. Support us. Stand by the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President. The best of Abuja and the best of Nigeria are still ahead of us.”
The President noted that several major road projects had been completed including the N16 Interchange, roads in Kuje, Gwagwalada, Mabushi, and the recently commissioned arterial roads.
According to him, the Southern Parkway service lanes when completed will further decongest the city, improve better access to communities, improve traffic circulation and accelerate development within the southern districts.
He emphasized that infrastructure development remains a key pillar of the administration’s economic growth strategy, adding that the administration had consistently chosen action over excuses in addressing the nation’s infrastructure challenges.
The APC Chairman, who represented Tinubu also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike’s exceptional performance in project delivery.
He said the FCT minister has demonstrated strong leadership, vision, and commitment to the transformation of Abuja, particularly in reviving abandoned projects and ensuring timely completion of critical infrastructure across Abuja.
“What we thought was only possible in Rivers, but you have shown clearly that it’s in your DNA to always do projects. Through your actions, you have shown that truly you are Mr. Projects. Since you assumed office, you have awakened the abandoned projects, You have set clear targets and you have delivered them in record time. You have brought discipline, vision, and political will to the FCT.”
In her remarks, the Head of Service of the FCT, Mrs Nancy Nathan expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the project and sustaining infrastructure development within the territory.
She urged the contractor to maintain the highest standards of quality and safety throughout the execution period.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda, disclosed that the contract for the project was awarded to CGC Nigeria Limited in May 2026.
He explained that the project includes the construction of two service carriageways, each comprising two lanes and extending approximately three kilometres.
Dauda added that the scope of work also covers two river bridges, drainage systems, culverts, and street lighting infrastructure.