Tinubu hails Wike as remodeled Abuja City Gate signals capital’s renewal

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday declared that the newly remodeled Abuja City Gate stands as an enduring symbol of national renewal, unity and progress, while commending the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, for transforming the nation’s capital through sustained infrastructure development.

Represented by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the commissioning ceremony in Abuja, the President said the remodelling of the iconic monument was a fitting tribute to both the third anniversary of his administration and the 50th anniversary of the Federal Capital Territory.

“It gives me great pleasure to join you this evening for the commissioning of the remodeled Abuja City Gate,” the President said.

“Today’s event is particularly significant as it forms part of two important national milestones: the third anniversary of our administration and the Golden Jubilee, that is the 50th anniversary of the Federal Capital Territory.”

Describing the City Gate as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable national monuments, Tinubu said the project reflects the administration’s commitment to building a capital city worthy of the nation’s status.

“There is no better time than this historic anniversary to remodel the Abuja City Gate, an iconic landmark that stands as a symbol of our national identity and serves as the gateway to our nation’s capital,” he said.

According to the President, Abuja represents the heart of the Nigerian federation as the nation’s diplomatic and administrative centre where all 36 states converge.

“Our city gate is one of the major first impressions of this city. It welcomes visitors, reflects the character of our people and communicates the pride our nation takes in its capital.

“This newly remodeled Abuja City Gate, with its beautiful water fountain representing the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, tells every visitor and Nigerians arriving from the airport that they have entered a city built on unity, diversity and shared aspirations.”

Tinubu said the remodeled gateway could now stand alongside renowned public monuments across major cities of the world.

He praised Wike for driving the transformation of Abuja through ambitious infrastructure projects.

“I commend the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, for remodeling the monument and for your relentless dedication to transforming the general ambience of the Federal Capital Territory.

“I also acknowledge the numerous infrastructural projects currently being undertaken across the capital city. Roads are being constructed and expanded, public spaces are being improved, and critical infrastructure is receiving renewed attention.

“When you share a vision with a man of action, you see results. Minister Wike, you have proven once again to be a true driver of the Renewed Hope Agenda. I say, well done.”

The President said the ongoing projects were repositioning Abuja as a capital city Nigerians could take pride in while advancing the administration’s vision of purposeful leadership, sustainable development and improved quality of life.

“As we commission this city gate Today, may she stand as an enduring symbol of renewal, progress and national pride. May all who pass through her be reminded of the boundless potential of our nation and be inspired to contribute to its continued growth.”

He urged residents to safeguard the facility, stressing that public infrastructure belongs to all Nigerians.

“I encourage you all to protect and preserve this landmark. Public infrastructure belongs to all of us, and its maintenance is a shared responsibility.”

The President thereafter declared the remodeled Abuja City Gate officially commissioned.

Earlier, the FCT minister, Barr Nyesom Wike disclosed that the project originated from a directive by First Lady, who insisted that the entrance into Nigeria’s capital should reflect the stature of the country.

The minister recounted how persistent rainfall had threatened the commissioning but said postponing the event was never an option.

“Since late last night, it has been raining. This morning it started raining. I came here to see what we were doing this afternoon… I said, whatever they do, we must commission this city gate Today.”

He revealed that although successive administrations had left the City Gate untouched, President Tinubu questioned why such a strategic national monument had remained unattractive.

“Your Excellency, this is your brainchild,” Wike said.

“You called me and asked, ‘Has he not been travelling? Is this how other city gates look? Is there no way you can beautify this place so that anybody coming to Abuja will say, indeed, I am entering the capital city of a country?'”

Wike said he immediately mobilised officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority and construction giant Julius Berger to redesign the facility despite initial delays.

“I told Julius Berger that if I lose my job, they too would lose their job,” he said jokingly, drawing laughter from the audience.

According to him, the engineering work beneath the monument was far more complex than it appeared on the surface.

“When I came here while they were working, I didn’t understand what they were doing. They were digging everywhere. They told me to be patient.

“You have come here now and it looks simple, but it is not simple. If you know what they have put underground, you will marvel.”

The minister expressed confidence that Nigerians would appreciate the transformation, particularly the newly installed water fountain and lighting system, describing the project as another milestone in the renewal of Abuja.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, described the remodeled City Gate as a visible symbol of the Renewed Hope transformation taking place across the nation’s capital.

She commended President Tinubu for his vision and Wike for driving the rehabilitation, reconstruction and completion of critical infrastructure projects across Abuja.

Mahmoud also praised the First Lady for her compassionate leadership, patriotic service and steadfast support for programmes that improve citizens’ wellbeing, noting that her presence added dignity and national significance to the commissioning ceremony.

She said the upgraded landmark represented “a new era of infrastructural renewal, urban rebirth and national pride,” adding that the ongoing projects were restoring Abuja’s original master plan and repositioning it as a capital city of global standard.