By Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
THE Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has explained that the termination of the Apo–Karshi Road contract was necessary to ease the hardship faced by residents and expedite the completion of the long-delayed project.
Wike said the decision followed the contractor’s persistent failure to make meaningful progress, noting that Kakatar Construction Company had performed unsatisfactorily despite several opportunities to deliver.
Speaking during a project inspection, the Minister announced that the contract has now been re-awarded to SCC, which he described as a more competent and serious company.
He added that the change was effected through an emergency procurement process to avoid further delays.
According to Wike, the Apo–Karshi Road project has dragged on for more than 14 years. He stated that SCC has already assured the FCTA that the road will be completed within 12 months.
“When we came on board in 2023, one major project of concern was the Apo–Karshi Road, awarded in 2010. Various adjustments had been made before our arrival,” Wike said.
“When we called the contractor, they promised to return to site and deliver the project within six months. Unfortunately, it was a huge disappointment. We had no choice but to terminate the contract and hand it over to a more competent contractor, SCC. This had to be done through emergency procurement because starting afresh would take five to six months, and the rains would come with more challenges.
“Given the importance of that road, we felt we had to relieve the hardship faced by the people and ensure the link between Apo and Wassa. It was a major decision taken in the best interest of Abuja residents.”
Wike reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure across the FCT, including satellite communities, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. He stressed that his focus is on delivering tangible results rather than being influenced by emotions or politics.
“We also visited Bwari down to ONEX in Kubwa. It is a major road that requires urgent work, and we have also awarded it to SCC. Passing through the road today opened our eyes to several areas that need attention,” he added.
“At Kubwa Road, you can see drainage works ongoing. Once completed, the old lanes will be sacrificed for new asphalt. The whole essence is to show that this administration means well—not only for the city centre but for rural and satellite communities.
“It has never happened in Abuja’s history that rural areas receive this level of attention. That is what the Renewed Hope Agenda stands for. The enthusiasm from residents and business operators shows we are on the right path.”
The termination of the former contract and its re-award to SCC is being viewed as a decisive move to put residents’ interests first and ensure the long-awaited road is finally completed.
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