Wike Flags Off Karu Road Projects, Says He’s Losing Sleep Over FCT Development

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed that he is losing sleep due to the pressure to deliver developmental projects across Abuja and its satellite towns.

Speaking on Wednesday during the flag-off ceremony for the reconstruction and dualisation of Karu Road — from Karu Interchange to Customs Clinic Junction — and other internal roads in Karu, Wike said local leaders have been consistently pushing for infrastructure upgrades.

He specifically mentioned the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Maikalangu, and former FCT Senator Philip Aduda, as key figures who have been urging him to prioritize projects in the area.

“Philip Aduda came to me just last night and said, ‘Sir, this is an opportunity. If you add a few more roads to this Karu dualisation, it will open up the entire area.’ Because I know he speaks passionately about his people, I agreed,” Wike stated.

In contrast, Wike appeared to mock the current FCT Senator, Ireti Kingibe, suggesting that getting government support for development isn’t about “grammar” but building strong relationships.

“It’s not grammar that brings projects, it’s your connection with the people. Being a senator isn’t just about holding the title; it’s about delivering real dividends of democracy,” he said.

Expanded Scope of Road Projects

The minister announced that, in addition to the Karu dualisation, several other roads will now be reconstructed. These include:

• Customs Clinic Junction to CBN Quarter Junction

• Customs Clinic Junction to EFCC

• NIA Quarters Road

• Pasi Road

• Primus Hospital Road

Wike emphasized that the roads will be completed within 10 months, fitted with street lighting, and are expected to stimulate economic growth in the Karu area.

“These roads will boost business and economic activities. Karu will become a model city. This is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda — to restore hope and deliver real impact to our people,” he added.

Call for Political Support

In his closing remarks, Wike urged residents to remember those who advocated for these projects, especially AMAC Chairman Maikalangu and President Bola Tinubu, when election season comes.

“Now that the Renewed Hope Agenda under Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is becoming a reality, I hope when the time comes, you will also fulfill your own promise,” he said. “And please, remember the man who doesn’t let me sleep — Maikalangu — when the time comes.”