First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for the transformation of Abuja’s City Gate, describing the project as a model of urban renewal and environmental sustainability.
Speaking during a ceremony organised to recognise the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s environmental efforts under the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Green Nigeria Challenge, the First Lady said the remodelling of the City Gate reflected the objectives of the initiative aimed at reclaiming neglected public spaces.
She described the facelift of the landmark as remarkable, saying the project demonstrated how abandoned locations could be transformed into attractive recreational and environmental assets.
“Posterity will judge you well for the development of the Federal Capital Territory,” she told Wike, while commending his commitment to improving the nation’s capital.
Tinubu, however, expressed disappointment that no state participated in the Community Category of the Green Nigeria Challenge, despite a ₦50 million prize offered to encourage the restoration of dumpsites and abandoned public spaces.
According to her, the initiative was designed to mobilise young people to convert neglected areas into parks, gardens and other eco-friendly spaces that would enhance public health and improve the quality of life.
“The remodelled Abuja City Gate is an excellent example of what abandoned public areas can become. It is now a national landmark that warmly welcomes Nigerians and visitors to the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.
The First Lady also urged wives of state governors to encourage children and youths to join environmental clubs and sustainability programmes in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, stressing that environmental stewardship should become part of national development efforts.
She recalled her participation in a youth environmental programme during her days as a student, noting that such initiatives expose young people to leadership, teamwork and environmental responsibility.
“We have to engage our young people because everyone has something to contribute to the growth and development of this country,” she added.
Responding, Wike said the First Lady’s passion for environmental sustainability inspired the FCT Administration’s decision to transform the City Gate and align with the Renewed Hope Green Initiative.
He said the project was part of ongoing efforts to create cleaner, greener and more attractive public spaces where residents and visitors could relax while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Federal Capital Territory.