President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, for what he described as the remarkable transformation of Abuja, saying the newly remodelled Abuja City Gate has become a powerful symbol of national renewal, unity and progress.
Speaking through the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the commissioning of the upgraded monument in Abuja, the President said the project fittingly commemorates 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,” Tinubu 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 iconic national landmarks, the President said its transformation reflects his administration’s determination to build a capital city that matches the country’s stature.
“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 him, Abuja remains the heart of the Nigerian federation, serving as the country’s administrative and diplomatic hub 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 upgraded monument now compares favourably with renowned public landmarks across major cities of the world.
The President reserved special praise for Wike, applauding his commitment to infrastructure development and describing him as a key driver of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“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.”
Tinubu noted that the ongoing infrastructure projects were repositioning Abuja as a capital city Nigerians could proudly identify with while advancing 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 also urged residents to protect public infrastructure.
“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 remodelled Abuja City Gate officially commissioned.
Earlier, Wike disclosed that the project was inspired by the First Lady, who insisted that the entrance into Nigeria’s capital should reflect the country’s prestige.
He also revealed that despite heavy rainfall threatening the commissioning ceremony, postponing the event was never considered.
“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.”
The minister further disclosed that President Tinubu personally questioned why such an important national monument had remained unattractive over the years.
“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?'”
According to Wike, he immediately directed the Federal Capital Development Authority and construction firm Julius Berger to redesign the landmark.
Recalling the pressure placed on the contractors, he joked:
“I told Julius Berger that if I lose my job, they too would lose their job.”
He explained that although the project appears simple on the surface, the engineering work beneath the monument was highly sophisticated.
“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.”
Wike expressed confidence that the upgraded City Gate, particularly its modern water fountain and lighting system, would become another landmark showcasing Abuja’s transformation.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the remodelled City Gate as a visible symbol of the Renewed Hope transformation taking place across the Federal Capital Territory.
She commended President Tinubu for providing visionary leadership and praised Wike for driving the rehabilitation, reconstruction and completion of critical infrastructure projects throughout Abuja.
Mahmoud also applauded the First Lady for her patriotic service and unwavering support for initiatives that improve the welfare of Nigerians, noting that her presence added significance to the commissioning ceremony.
She said the upgraded monument represents “a new era of infrastructural renewal, urban rebirth and national pride,” adding that ongoing projects are restoring Abuja’s master plan and positioning the city among world-class capitals.
