FLAG-OFF OF THE MAIN CARRIAGEWAYS OF OUTER SOUTHERN EXPRESSWAY (OSEX)

Flag-Off of the Main Carriageways of Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX): A Milestone in Abuja’s Infrastructure Development

On October 15, 2025, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) witnessed a landmark event with the official flag-off of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX), a critical infrastructure project aimed at transforming the transportation landscape of Abuja.

The ceremony, held at the project site, was attended by a distinguished array of dignitaries, including the Honorable Minister of the FCT, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, senior government officials, and representatives of the contracting firm, CGC Nigeria Limited.

The Outer Southern Expressway, commonly referred to as OSEX, is a major arterial route designed to enhance connectivity between the city center and the southern outskirts of Abuja. The expressway, when fully completed, will span approximately 67 kilometers, linking the Villa Roundabout in Asokoro District through Apo, Lokogoma, and Kuje, and terminating at the intersection with the A2 Federal Highway in Gwagwalada. The project is a vital component of the Abuja Master Plan, envisioned to mirror the Outer Northern Expressway that connects Zuba to the city.

The current phase of the project involves the construction of the two main carriageways between Ring Road 1 and Ring Road 2. This segment complements earlier developments, including the 10-lane expansion from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road 1, and the completed service carriageways up to Wasa Junction.

The contract for this phase has been awarded to CGC Nigeria Limited, with a projected completion timeline of one year. The scope of work includes dual three-lane main carriageways, drainage systems, culverts, pedestrian and river bridges, and solar-powered street lighting, all designed to meet modern engineering and environmental standards.

In his address, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engineer Yunana Dauda, emphasized the strategic importance of the project in decongesting traffic, reducing travel time, and stimulating economic growth along the southern corridor of the FCT. He noted that the construction phase would generate over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, aligning with the administration’s goals of youth engagement and community inclusion.

The Honorable Minister of the FCT, Barrister Wike, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its promises and delivering impactful projects. He highlighted the significance of the OSEX project in easing the daily commute for residents and underscored the administration’s resolve to complete all ongoing and abandoned projects.

Wike also announced plans to relocate Apo traders to a new site with adequate infrastructure, further demonstrating the administration’s holistic approach to urban development.

In a symbolic gesture of accountability, the Chief Executive of CGC Nigeria Limited, Mr. Jiang Yang, publicly pledged to deliver the project on schedule and to the highest standards. This public commitment, witnessed by government officials and citizens alike, was lauded as a model of transparency and responsibility in public contracting.

The event also served as a platform to celebrate the collaborative spirit between the FCT leadership and various stakeholders. The Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, in her vote of thanks, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and support for the FCT. She acknowledged the temporary inconveniences the construction might cause but assured residents that the long-term benefits would far outweigh the disruptions.

The flag-off ceremony concluded with a symbolic activation of construction equipment by the Honorable Minister, signaling the commencement of work. The atmosphere was one of optimism and unity, as attendees applauded the administration’s efforts to build a more connected, efficient, and livable capital city.

This project stands as a testament to the renewed hope agenda of the current administration, reflecting a governance philosophy rooted in performance, inclusivity, and sustainable development.

As the OSEX project progresses, it is poised to become a defining feature of Abuja’s urban transformation and a beacon of infrastructural excellence in Nigeria.