Nigeria's Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has praised Dunamis International Gospel Centre for constructing a pedestrian bridge along Abuja's busy Airport Road. The bridge, located near the church's 100,000-capacity Glory Dome, aims to improve pedestrian safety along the expressway. Wike announced that the FCT Administration will reimburse the church for 50 per cent of the project's total cost.
The project was motivated by concerns over recurring fatal accidents along the Airport Road corridor. Dunamis had initially applied for approval to construct the facility in 2018, but it wasn't until February 2026 that the application was brought to Wike's attention, after which approval was granted within one month. Wike attributed the swift approval to President Bola Tinubu's administration commitment to responsive governance.
Wike emphasized the importance of private institutions contributing to public infrastructure and community welfare, encouraging other organizations to support government efforts. He noted that the government cannot independently shoulder every responsibility associated with infrastructure development and public welfare, making collaboration with private organizations necessary.
The FCTA's decision to reimburse half of the construction cost represents an incentive for private organizations willing to invest in infrastructure that benefits the wider population. This partnership could provide additional support for government efforts to address infrastructure gaps, particularly in rapidly developing urban areas like Abuja.
Nigeria's infrastructure deficit remains a major development challenge, with governments facing competing demands for investment in transportation, healthcare, education, and electricity. Pedestrian safety is an important component of transportation planning in Abuja, where population growth and expanding urban activities continue to increase pressure on existing infrastructure.
Wike expressed concern over the reluctance of some pedestrians to use available pedestrian bridges, warning that such behavior exposes road users to avoidable accidents and fatalities. He also criticized the tendency of some residents to condemn government enforcement activities on social media, urging residents to recognize the importance of regulations designed to protect lives.
Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche, explained that the church embarked on the project due to frequent fatal accidents along the Airport Road axis. The church plans to improve the structure with modern aesthetic coverings, security lighting, and transparent side panels to protect users from adverse weather conditions and encourage greater public utilization.
Key points
- The FCT Administration will reimburse Dunamis International Gospel Centre for 50 per cent of the pedestrian bridge's total cost.
- The project aims to improve pedestrian safety along Abuja's busy Airport Road, reducing the likelihood of accidents on major roads.
- The partnership between the FCT Administration and Dunamis International Gospel Centre could encourage similar interventions from other organizations to address public infrastructure challenges.
