By Abdullahi Lukman
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has announced that ongoing road construction projects in Abuja’s rural communities will play a crucial role in boosting food security and agricultural development.
Speaking after inspecting several key projects in the territory on Saturday, Wike highlighted that improved access to farmlands through newly constructed roads would unlock the vast agricultural potential in these areas.
Among the projects reviewed were the completed Market and Palace Road in Gwagwalada, the finished 15-kilometre A2 to Pai road, and the ongoing 15.4-kilometre Pai to Gumani road in Kwali Area Council.
Wike also inspected the dualisation of Ushafa to Military Checkpoint and War College roads in Bwari Area Council.
“The arable land between Pai and Gumani is extensive, but previously inaccessible due to poor roads,” Wike said.
“With these new roads, we expect increased mechanised farming and better use of the land, which will significantly impact food production and security.”
The minister stressed that roads are the foundation of development, attracting further investments such as schools and health facilities.
He further revealed plans to extend the Pai to Gumani road by 13 kilometres to connect Gumani with Yangoje, increasing the total length to over 43 kilometres from the Abuja-Lokoja Expressway.
“We are committed to ensuring that rural communities benefit from this infrastructure.
This is how we deliver dividends of democracy to the people,” Wike said confidently.
With improved road connectivity, the FCT hopes to stimulate rural economic growth and ensure Nigeria moves closer to ending food insecurity.
