Nigeria: Neglect of FCT suburbs over, says Tinubu.

Nigeria - June 22, 2026 President Bola Tinubu says the era of neglecting suburbs of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is over under his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda. Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, stated this during the inauguration of the Water Supply Network linking Karu, Orozo, Jikwoyi, Kurudu and other adjoining satellite towns. "We are here not just to cut a ribbon, but to breathe life into a fundamental human right that has eluded this bustling community for far too long. "Today, we declare that the era of neglect for our satellite towns is officially over." Tinubu recalled that during the inauguration of the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project about a year ago, he directed that water infrastructure be extended beyond elite districts. "The metropolitan loops must not end in the elite districts. They must stretch. They must expand into our satellite towns, where the heartbeat of Abuja's working-class population truly resides." He said he approved the Karu Water Supply Project immediately after the proposal was presented by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. According to him, access to clean water is essential for health, dignity and economic progress. "And today, we are commissioning over 194 kilometres of secondary and tertiary pipeline networks, bringing treated, safe and potable water directly to the doorsteps of Karu, Orozo, Jikwoyi, Kurudu and surrounding communities." The President commended Wike for delivering projects that directly impact residents. "But by its tangible and verifiable impact on the lives of ordinary citizens. "Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, what we are witnessing in the FCT today—across transport, healthcare, education, housing, roads and now massive water infrastructure—is a testament to what happens when vision meets executive capacity. "Thank you, 'Mr Projects,' for your leadership." Tinubu regretted that residents of Karu had relied for decades on unsafe boreholes and water vendors despite the area's rapid growth. He said previous administrations left behind promises, whereas his administration was focused on delivering results. The President urged residents of Karu, Jikwoyi and neighbouring communities to protect the infrastructure from vandalism and illegal connections. "This infrastructure belongs to you. It was built with your commonwealth and designed for your well-being. "I therefore urge you to safeguard these installations against vandalism and illegal connections. "Do not look the other way if unscrupulous elements try to compromise what has taken years of effort and resources to deliver. Earlier, Wike thanked the President for supporting the execution of people-oriented projects across the FCT, including satellite towns. Minister of State for FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, also thanked the President and Vice President for supporting efforts to transform infrastructure across the FCT and beyond.