President Bola Tinubu has called on residents and businesses in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to fulfil their tax obligations and promptly pay ground rents and other statutory charges, stressing that government revenue remains vital for sustaining infrastructure development and improving public services across the nation’s capital.
The President made the appeal on Wednesday during the inauguration of the completed Arterial Road N5, a major transport corridor linking Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Abuja’s Dape District. The newly completed road is expected to significantly improve connectivity to several rapidly developing communities and provide easier access to the Idu Industrial District, one of the capital city’s key economic hubs.
Represented at the ceremony by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said citizens and businesses who benefit from government infrastructure projects must also play their part by meeting their civic responsibilities.
Addressing residents and stakeholders gathered at the event, the President noted that tax compliance and payment of land-related charges remain essential sources of funding for development projects across the FCT.
“To the residents and business owners enjoying this transformation, I urge you to meet your obligations. Pay your taxes. Clear your land fees and ground rents. Your compliance gives the FCT Administration the strength to build more roads like this one,” he said.
Tinubu explained that the successful completion of the Arterial Road N5 project reflects his administration’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that directly impacts the lives of citizens, while also demonstrating a determination to complete inherited projects rather than abandon them midway.
According to him, infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of his government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to enhance economic growth, improve transportation networks and stimulate investment across the country.
The President recalled that during the inauguration of an earlier section of the road in 2025, his administration had assured residents that the remaining portions of the project would be completed. He said Wednesday’s commissioning fulfilled that promise and underscored the government’s resolve to translate commitments into tangible results.
Tinubu noted that infrastructure projects are not merely about constructing roads but about creating opportunities for economic growth, improving mobility and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
He said the completion of the road would reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion and encourage further residential, commercial and industrial development in the affected districts.
The President also commended the Federal Capital Territory Administration for its efforts in executing critical infrastructure projects aimed at transforming Abuja into a modern and efficient capital city capable of meeting the needs of its growing population.
He praised the leadership of the FCT Administration for maintaining focus on developmental projects despite economic challenges and increasing demands on public resources.
The newly inaugurated road is expected to open up previously underserved communities in the Dape area, while strengthening transportation links between residential districts and key economic centres within the capital.
Stakeholders at the event observed that the project would boost property values, attract new investments and improve access to businesses operating within the Idu Industrial District.
The road forms part of a broader infrastructure expansion programme being implemented by the FCT Administration to address transportation challenges and support urban growth. In recent years, Abuja has witnessed rapid population expansion, leading to increased pressure on roads, housing and public facilities.
Government officials at the ceremony highlighted the importance of sustainable funding for infrastructure projects, noting that tax revenue and statutory payments remain critical to financing development initiatives without excessive reliance on borrowing.
They argued that improved compliance with tax laws and payment of ground rents would enable the government to undertake more projects, maintain existing infrastructure and deliver essential services to residents.
Tinubu reiterated that the success of government development efforts depends on a partnership between authorities and citizens, stressing that infrastructure investments can only be sustained when residents contribute their fair share through lawful payments.
He assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to prioritise projects capable of driving economic development and improving living conditions across the country.
The inauguration of the Arterial Road N5 marks another milestone in the ongoing effort to modernise Abuja’s transportation network and expand access to emerging districts. As development continues to spread beyond the city centre, officials believe projects such as the newly completed road will play a crucial role in supporting growth and enhancing connectivity throughout the Federal Capital Territory.
For residents of Life Camp, Dape, and surrounding communities, the project represents not only a new roadway but also a symbol of the government’s promise to deliver critical infrastructure and foster sustainable urban development in Nigeria’s capital city.
