Tinubu Delivers Long-Awaited Wasa Relocation Project for Apo Traders

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially launched the infrastructure needed for the relocation of mechanics, artisans and traders from the Apo Mechanic Village to the Wasa District in the Federal Capital Territory, bringing to an end a relocation plan that had remained unresolved for many years.

The President inaugurated the access roads, electricity and water facilities at the Informal Sector Layout in Wasa on Friday. The project clears the way for thousands of traders, mechanics and artisans to move into the new location after years of waiting.

Represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, Tinubu said the relocation fulfilled a promise that previous administrations had failed to deliver despite repeated assurances. He described the project as part of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is aimed at ensuring that infrastructure projects benefit ordinary Nigerians while supporting economic activities.

For several years, traders and mechanics operating along the Outer Southern Expressway corridor had faced uncertainty over relocation plans linked to the Abuja Master Plan. Many also complained about poor facilities at their current location.

According to the President, the project goes beyond providing roads, electricity and water. He said it would improve the lives of thousands of Nigerians who rely on the informal sector for their daily income. He added that the new layout would create a better business environment, lower operating costs and contribute to higher internally generated revenue for the Federal Capital Territory.

Tinubu also said his administration remains committed to ensuring that development reaches every part of society rather than benefiting only a few people. He noted that infrastructure projects should create opportunities for ordinary citizens and support economic growth across the country.

The President acknowledged the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians, saying the ongoing reforms have placed pressure on households and businesses. However, he maintained that the measures were necessary to build a stronger and more stable economy in the long term.

He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to expand social intervention programmes, invest in agriculture and develop more infrastructure projects to create jobs and improve livelihoods.

Earlier, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said the completion of the project showed the government’s determination to fulfil commitments made to residents. He recalled that shortly after assuming office in August 2023, the FCT Administration began discussions with the Apo Mechanic Traders Association and other stakeholders on relocating them to the designated site in Wasa.

Wike explained that although previous governments had announced similar plans, they never provided the necessary infrastructure. He noted that under the current administration, the contract for the project was awarded in November last year and completed in less than a year.

The minister urged members of the traders’ association to resolve their internal issues and prepare for a smooth relocation now that the government had completed its part of the agreement.

He also commended CGC Nigeria Limited for delivering the project and thanked host communities, the National Assembly and Area Council chairmen for supporting infrastructure development across the Federal Capital Territory.

The Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as another step in the administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure and support economic activities in Abuja. She said the rehabilitation and completion of key projects across the capital were helping to improve public confidence and strengthen Abuja’s position as a modern city.