President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his leadership in executing key infrastructure projects, while playfully extending an open invitation for Wike to join the All Progressives Congress.
The remarks came during the commissioning of the newly completed Arterial Road N16 in Abuja. The road, which connects Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), is expected to significantly improve transportation flow across the Maitama District and adjoining areas like Jahi, Katampe, and Bwari.
The project, executed under the leadership of Wike, includes multiple interchanges, flyovers, drainage systems, and utility infrastructure. President Tinubu described it as a vital part of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This project is not just a road,” Tinubu said. “It is a testimony to what focused governance and competent leadership can accomplish. What was once a neglected corridor in the Abuja Master Plan is now a key artery for national development.”
Commending Wike for effective collaboration and teamwork, the President said: “You could not have achieved this alone. The success of this project speaks to your ability to rally people and drive results. That is what leadership is all about.”
President Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices made by affected communities and thanked them for cooperating during relocation efforts. “The Minister ensured that compensation was fair and that peace was maintained throughout the process,” he noted, urging residents to protect and responsibly use the newly completed infrastructure.
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In a lighter moment that drew cheers from the crowd, Tinubu addressed Wike’s political position, jokingly suggesting that the APC would welcome him if he chose to defect.
“He’s not in our party, not yet. But if he decides to register, we’ll welcome him joyfully — and enjoy his songs as ‘e dey sweet us,’” he said, drawing laughter and applause.
Wike, in his response, credited President Tinubu for instilling confidence among contractors and reviving trust in government delivery. “None of the contracts awarded under your administration has been abandoned,” he said. “This particular road was approved in September 2023 and flagged off the following month. Its rapid completion shows that contractors now believe in government promises.”
He added that the new road links strategic zones such as the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and the Judges’ Quarters, strengthening judicial and administrative accessibility in the capital.
Highlighting the broader implications of infrastructure projects, President Tinubu reaffirmed that “roads are the foundation of economic growth, industrialisation, and national unity.” He reiterated his administration’s commitment to integrated development across roads, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure.
As political speculation swirls over Wike’s affiliation, his increasingly visible role in Tinubu’s administration suggests a realignment may be on the horizon. Regardless of politics, both leaders appear aligned in their focus on delivering high-impact projects that resonate with citizens and stakeholders alike.
