Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has declared infrastructure as the backbone of national progress, asserting that Nigeria’s dream of development cannot materialise without intentional and inclusive infrastructural investment.
Speaking during the 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Wike presented a compelling vision for the country in a speech titled “The Nigeria of our Dreams.”
He emphasised that infrastructure is far more than physical assets—it is about shaping destinies, promoting equality, and enabling sustainable development.
“Infrastructure is the architecture of equality. It delivers dignity, inclusion, productivity, and hope,” Wike said.
He added that a truly developed Nigeria is one where a child in rural Zamfara has the same access to education, healthcare, and digital innovation as a child in Lagos.
Highlighting the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Wike noted that despite existing challenges, noticeable strides were being made—particularly in the FCT.
“Even the strongest critic of President Tinubu will agree that infrastructure is improving. The transformation of Abuja is proof of that commitment,” he asserted.
Wike credited this rapid progress in the capital to the President’s support and the vision behind the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he described as a recalibration of Nigeria’s national priorities.
He explained that this agenda was laying the groundwork for a future where infrastructure was not a luxury, but a necessity integrated into the everyday lives of Nigerians.
He further identified the key pillars for realising the Nigeria of our dreams: democracy and good governance, rule of law, quality education, human development, economic growth, security, national unity, cultural rebirth, and local government resilience.
On democracy and governance, Wike stressed the need for leadership built on competence, integrity, and service—not exploitation. “Public office is not a privilege to be exploited, but a sacred trust to be honoured,” he said.
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He also referenced U.S. scholar Larry Diamond, echoing his view that establishing democracy is one thing, but sustaining it is even more challenging.
Wike urged Nigerians to play active roles as citizens, holding leaders accountable and ensuring that democracy thrives through engagement and vigilance.
“In the end, the Nigerian dream is not a passive wish but a call to action—through responsible leadership, civic engagement, and unwavering commitment to justice,” Wike concluded.
The lecture served as both a vision statement and a challenge to leaders and citizens alike to prioritise infrastructure and governance as tools for national renewal.
NAN
