The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has set a target for the early completion of the Northern Parkway (N8/9), linking Ring Road II to Ring Road III in Abuja.
Wike expressed concern over the 30-month timeline for the project, noting that he may not remain in office within that period.
He referenced President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, stressing the importance of ensuring Abuja’s road infrastructure meets global standards.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony for the full-scope development of the Northern Parkway, the minister praised Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for its competence in handling complex infrastructure projects.
He commended the company’s reputation for delivering quality work with minimal supervision.
“Julius Berger is one of the most competent and trusted companies that can undertake this kind of mandate,” Wike said. “Their capacity is humongous, so also their pay is humongous. They know how to collect the money, but what is important is that a project of this nature requires companies you don’t need to supervise every minute, every second, every hour. Julius Berger has built that reputation.”
Highlighting the role of infrastructure in shaping cities, he added: “Without road infrastructure, it will be difficult for you to compare or describe this city as world-class. Under the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr President, we are changing the narrative to ensure Abuja competes with other cities of the world. That is what we are doing with companies like Julius Berger championing the cause.”
Earlier, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr Peer Lubasch, thanked the FCT Administration for awarding the contract, describing the project as vital to the Abuja Master Plan.
He said the Northern Parkway would not only ease traffic congestion and reduce travel times but also enhance security, create jobs, and accelerate the development of surrounding districts.
Lubasch explained that the project is designed as a 10-lane dual carriageway, with both main and service carriageways, and would serve as world-class infrastructure to transform mobility and strengthen inter-district integration in the capital city.