Babatunji Wusu –
- Improved Connectivity: A new 9-kilometer road now connects 70 communities in Gwagwalada, enhancing access for residents.
- Boosted Livelihoods: The road improves market access for farmers, facilitating the transport of agricultural goods.
- Addressing Long-Standing Issues: The previously neglected Paikon Kore-Ibwa road, which had been in disrepair for over 50 years, was finally reconstructed.
- Enhanced Security and Education: The road and new bridge improve safety and ease of travel for students between villages.
A newly constructed 9-kilometer road has significantly improved access for over 70 communities in the Gwagwalada area council of Abuja, marking a major milestone with the completion of the Paikon Kore-Ibwa road project. This development, funded by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has resolved the isolation previously faced by residents due to a deteriorated road and aging bridge.
Before this project, the road linking Paikon Kore and Ibwa was in a state of severe disrepair, affecting transportation and hindering access to other parts of the region. With the completion of the new access road, however, connectivity has improved drastically, benefiting mainly the area’s farming community. These residents can now more easily access markets across the Federal Capital Territory, boosting their livelihoods by facilitating the transportation of agricultural products.
The road’s reconstruction had been a long-awaited initiative, with the original road having been neglected for over five decades. Ibrahim Maikeri, the community liaison officer, emphasized how the improvements have been transformative for the residents, allowing better communication between communities and offering solutions to security concerns that had previously been exacerbated by the poor infrastructure.
The completion of the project also included the reconstruction of the bridge linking Paikon Kore and Ibwa, which has made it easier for students to commute between neighboring villages for education. His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammadu Magaji, and other local leaders expressed gratitude toward the FCTA and Minister Nyesom Wike, who prioritized this important infrastructure project. They highlighted the significant improvements in travel times, with journeys between the two villages now taking just 10 to 15 minutes— a stark contrast to the previously daunting task that sometimes required helicopter transport.
Contracted by Setraco Nigeria Ltd., the project was completed two weeks ahead of schedule, thanks to strong community cooperation and early funding from the FCTA. The project is now officially handed over to the Satellite Towns Development Department, marking a success story in rural infrastructure development.
