President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned key infrastructure projects at the Informal Sector Layout in Wasa District, Abuja, paving the way for the long-awaited relocation of mechanics, artisans and traders from Apo Mechanic Village.
The project, which includes access roads, electricity and water infrastructure, brings to an end years of delays and unfulfilled promises by successive administrations to move traders and mechanics from the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) corridor.
Represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, at the commissioning ceremony in Abuja on Friday, Tinubu said the relocation fulfilled a commitment that had remained unrealised for over a decade.
The President described the development as part of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at ensuring that infrastructure projects benefit ordinary Nigerians and support economic growth.
“Today, under this administration, that promise has been fulfilled,” Tinubu said, noting that the project goes beyond roads and utilities to represent an investment in human dignity and economic empowerment.
He said the informal sector remains a major driver of Nigeria’s economy, adding that providing modern infrastructure at Wasa would transform the area into a commercial hub, improve business activities and boost revenue generation in the Federal Capital Territory.
Tinubu also acknowledged the economic difficulties facing Nigerians, describing the government’s ongoing reforms as difficult but necessary measures to strengthen the economy.
“I am deeply aware of the current economic realities across our nation. The reforms we have initiated are painful, but they are necessary steps toward building a more resilient economy,” he said.
The President assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to expand social intervention programmes, support agriculture and invest in infrastructure to create jobs and improve livelihoods.
Meanwhile, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said the project demonstrated Tinubu’s commitment to fulfilling promises made to Abuja residents.
Wike recalled that shortly after assuming office in 2023, the FCT Administration engaged stakeholders, including the Apo Mechanic Traders Association, on the need to relocate them to the designated Wasa informal sector layout.
According to him, previous administrations had made similar promises without completing the relocation process, but Tinubu’s government moved quickly to provide the necessary infrastructure.
“Every government that came promised that Apo traders and mechanics would be moved here, but those promises were never fulfilled. When Tinubu became President, he made the promise and approved the project,” Wike said.
He urged members of the association to resolve their internal issues and prepare for a smooth transition to the new location.
The FCT Minister also commended CGC Nigeria Limited for executing the project and appreciated host communities, the National Assembly and area council chairmen for supporting infrastructure development across Abuja.
The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as another indication of the administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic empowerment.
She said the completion of major projects across the capital city was restoring public confidence and repositioning Abuja as a modern city that meets global standards.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.