President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially inaugurated the newly completed Arterial Road in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), marking a significant milestone in Abuja’s urban infrastructure development.
The newly commissioned route Shehu Shagari Way stretches from the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (popularly known as Ring Road 1) and links up with Arterial Road N20, also called Wole Soyinka Way, in the Katampe District. The corridor includes a major interchange and several feeder roads that improve access between key districts such as Jahi, Mabushi, Maitama, and Katampe.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) shared the update on Wednesday, June 11, through its official social media channels. The project, which had stalled for years, has now been completed under the leadership of the current administration.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, President Tinubu described the road as a vital addition to the city’s infrastructure network, emphasizing that modern transportation links are essential to economic development, regional integration, and overall urban efficiency.
“This project showcases our dedication to delivering infrastructure that connects communities, supports mobility, and strengthens the nation’s capital,” President Tinubu said.
He commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for fast-tracking the completion of the project and acknowledged the cooperation of indigenous residents affected by the road’s construction. The President noted that those relocated were compensated, describing the process as peaceful and transparent.
“They told me how cooperative you were,” Tinubu told traditional leaders at the event. “You worked with the FCT administration, and you’ve been respectfully relocated. It was not a case of land grabbing.”
The arterial road is expected to ease traffic congestion and serve as a key connector in the capital’s evolving transport master plan. The infrastructure upgrade aligns with the broader Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to drive inclusive development through strategic capital projects.
Analysts believe the road will enhance economic activity in surrounding districts and improve access to government institutions, residential estates, and business hubs in Nigeria’s capital.
As the FCT continues to expand, such road networks are seen as essential to supporting Abuja’s growing population and urban needs. With this commissioning, the Tinubu administration reinforces its message that infrastructure remains central to its national development blueprint.
