What The First Lady Told Wike Has Everyone Talking

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for the transformation of Abuja’s City Gate, saying history will remember him for his contributions to the development of the nation’s capital.

Speaking on Monday at a ceremony recognising the FCT Administration’s environmental initiatives, Senator Tinubu described the redevelopment of the iconic City Gate as a remarkable achievement that aligns with the objectives of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Green Nigeria Challenge.

“When I saw what he did with the City Gate, my God, unbelievable, I want to thank him, He has done very well,” she said.

The First Lady expressed disappointment that no state participated in the Community Category of the Green Nigeria Challenge despite a ₦50 million prize aimed at encouraging communities to reclaim abandoned public spaces and dumpsites.

She explained that the initiative was designed to mobilise young people to transform neglected areas into parks, gardens and other environmentally friendly spaces, complementing government efforts to improve public health and beautify communities.

Senator Tinubu also urged the wives of state governors to encourage youths to participate in environmental clubs and sustainability programmes in schools and tertiary institutions, stressing that everyone has a role to play in national development.

Responding, Wike said the First Lady inspired the City Gate transformation through her consistent advocacy for environmental improvement.

He revealed that she had challenged the FCT Administration to improve Abuja’s appearance after comparing it with public spaces in other countries.

According to the minister, the administration engaged the original designers of the City Gate to produce a new design that has since transformed the area into a vibrant recreational and tourism destination.

“Today, whenever you pass there, even at night, you see people gathered there. There is life and activity, That is how it should be,” Wike said.

The FCT minister disclosed that similar urban renewal projects would be extended to other parts of Abuja, including the Lifecamp area, where another green recreational centre is being planned.

He emphasised that environmental sustainability remains central to urban development, noting that clean and attractive surroundings are among the defining features of modern cities.

At the event, the First Lady presented Certificates of Commendation on behalf of the Renewed Hope Initiative to Wike and the Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, in recognition of their contributions to environmental development.

She also announced that entries for the Household and State categories of the Green Nigeria Challenge will remain open until December 20, 2026.