FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike speaking with newsmen during a media chat in Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is delivering unprecedented development in Abuja, with massive investments in roads, transportation, healthcare and education aimed at improving the lives of residents.
In his message to residents to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on Thursday, Wike congratulated Nigerians and urged residents to remain hopeful as the country continues its journey toward stability and shared prosperity.
The minister said this year’s Independence Day theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity,” reflects the country’s determination to overcome challenges and build a stronger future.
According to him, “We acknowledge the challenges that have faced our nation in the past 66 years, but also see a great opportunity for renewal and sustainable growth. We are very optimistic that the future is brighter. We have a President who is intentional about prioritising the well-being of the citizens and has brought unprecedented development to the FCT.”
Wike described Abuja as a symbol of Nigeria’s unity where people from different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds live together peacefully.
He said, “The Federal Capital Territory stands as the ultimate symbol of our national unity—a place where Nigerians from every tribe, tongue, and faith come together to live, work, and thrive in peace. Abuja is not just a city; it is the heartbeat of a diverse people bound by a common destiny.”
The minister reaffirmed that the FCT Administration remains focused on transforming Abuja into a modern, inclusive and world-class capital city through improved public services and sustainable development.
He noted that the administration has expanded road infrastructure from the city centre to rural communities, installed drainage systems and solar streetlights, and constructed modern bus terminals to improve transportation and security across the territory.
According to Wike, “This administration has totally transformed the road network of the FCT from the City Centre to the remotest rural parts of the Territory, providing world class roads, equipped with drainage and solar lighting thereby putting an end to both inaccessibility and insecurity in far-flung settlements in the Federal Capital Territory.”
He added that new ultramodern bus terminals have already been completed in the Abuja Municipal Area Council and will soon be extended to Kuje, Bwari and Gwagwalada to provide residents with safer and more reliable public transport services.
The minister also said the administration is strengthening healthcare and education by upgrading schools and revitalising primary healthcare centres across the six area councils to ensure that no resident is left behind.
According to him, “We believe that a healthy and educated population is the bedrock of any prosperous society. By equipping our schools and revitalizing our primary health centers, we are securing a brighter, healthier and more competitive future for our children.”
Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960. The annual celebration provides an opportunity for leaders to assess national progress, renew commitments to development and call for unity as governments at all levels outline ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of citizens.
