Residents of Tungan Madaki, a rural settlement in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have welcomed the completion of a new access road, describing it as a life-changing development that will improve connectivity, economic activities, and access to essential services.
Community members said the area had remained largely cut off from neighbouring communities for many years due to poor road infrastructure, making transportation, education, and commercial activities difficult.
The residents shared their views during the inauguration of the newly completed seven-kilometre road linking the community to Airport Road (Bill Clinton Drive).
They expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for delivering a project they believe will unlock new opportunities for farmers, traders, students, and other residents.
According to them, the project marks the first significant government intervention many residents have witnessed in the community.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the District Head of Tungan Madaki, Malam Muhammad Haruna, praised the administration for bringing development closer to the people and addressing longstanding infrastructure challenges.
He said the completion of the road had transformed the outlook of the community and brought renewed hope to residents.
“The situation has changed completely. This road, which now connects Bill Clinton Drive directly to our community, has brought immense joy and relief to our people.
“It represents a major milestone for Tungan Madaki after years of being overlooked in terms of development.
“For many years, our farming activities suffered because of poor road conditions and the absence of a reliable bridge, which often cut us off from other parts of the FCT during the rainy season.
“Moving agricultural produce from our farms to local markets was extremely challenging, and reaching larger markets was even more difficult.
“Today, we can proudly say that a new chapter has begun for our community,” he said.
Haruna noted that the road would improve the movement of agricultural products, reduce transportation costs, and strengthen links between farmers and consumers.
He added that easier access to markets would help minimise post-harvest losses, increase farmers’ incomes, and contribute to overall economic growth within the community.
Beyond agriculture, the traditional ruler highlighted the project’s impact on education, describing it as a solution to challenges that had affected students for years.
He explained that Tungan Madaki is home to a major senior secondary school that serves several surrounding communities.
However, damaged infrastructure and difficult terrain during the rainy season often prevented students from attending classes safely.
According to him, the new road has restored dependable access to the school and will help ensure uninterrupted learning throughout the year.
While celebrating the development, community leaders appealed for additional support to further improve living conditions in the area.
Haruna specifically called for the provision of potable water, describing it as an essential need that remains unmet despite the progress recorded through the road project.
During the inauguration, the FCT Minister explained that the project forms part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to expand road infrastructure and improve access to rural communities across the territory.
He stated that the road, which includes a four-span bridge, is expected to serve nine communities and provide a strategic connection to the Zuba Road corridor.
Residents expressed optimism that the new infrastructure would stimulate growth, improve mobility, and create a more prosperous future for the communities along the route.