Wike earns first lady’s praise for transforming Abuja landmark

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for transforming Abuja’s City Gate into a beautiful recreational and environmental landmark.

She spoke during an event organised to recognise the FCT Administration’s environmental efforts under the Renewed Hope Green Nigeria Challenge.

According to the First Lady, the renovation of the City Gate shows how abandoned public spaces can be turned into attractive parks and green areas that benefit both residents and visitors.

She said the project reflects the goals of the Green Nigeria Challenge, which encourages young people to restore neglected spaces, dumpsites and other damaged areas by converting them into parks, gardens and other eco-friendly locations.

Oluremi Tinubu expressed disappointment that no state took part in the Community Category of the competition despite the ₦50 million prize set aside for winners.

She said the initiative was created to encourage young people to participate in environmental projects while supporting government efforts to make communities cleaner and healthier.

Praising Wike’s work, the First Lady described the renovated City Gate as a welcoming national landmark for Nigerians and visitors entering the capital city.

“When I saw what he did with the City Gate, it was unbelievable. He has done very well. Posterity will judge you well for the development of the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.

Tinubu also urged the wives of state governors to encourage children and students to join environmental clubs in schools and higher institutions. She recalled being a member of the Youth Environmental Programme for West Africa during her time at the College of Education, describing the experience as important in shaping her passion for environmental protection.

She stressed that young people should be encouraged to contribute to national development by protecting the environment.

In his response, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike thanked the First Lady for promoting environmental sustainability. He said her commitment to the Renewed Hope Green Initiative inspired the City Gate transformation.

Wike added that creating clean and attractive public spaces gives people places to relax while improving the appearance of the nation’s capital.