President Bola Tinubu on Thursday evening commissioned the remodelled Abuja City Gate, describing the iconic monument as a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s unity, national identity and the ongoing transformation of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President, represented by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, said the inauguration of the remodelled landmark coincided with two significant national milestones: the third anniversary of his administration and the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory.
Reading the President’s address at the ceremony, Senator Tinubu said there could not have been a more fitting time to remodel the Abuja City Gate, noting that the structure remains one of the country’s most recognisable monuments and the first point of contact for visitors entering the nation’s capital.
“It gives me great pleasure to join you this evening for the commissioning of the remodelled Abuja City Gate. Today’s event is particularly significant as it forms part of two important national milestones: the third anniversary of our administration and the Golden Jubilee, that is, the 50th anniversary of the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.
According to the President, Abuja represents the heart of Nigeria as the nation’s diplomatic and administrative capital where all 36 states converge, making the city gate an important symbol that reflects the country’s character, unity and aspirations.
“When we look at a nation’s capital, it represents the heart of its people. Abuja is Nigeria’s diplomatic and administrative centre where all 36 states meet. Therefore, our City Gate is one of the city’s major first impressions. It welcomes visitors, reflects the character of our people and communicates the pride our nation takes in its capital,” the President stated.
He noted that the newly remodelled monument, complemented by a modern water fountain symbolising the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, conveys a message of unity, diversity, and shared national aspirations to everyone arriving in Abuja.
“This newly remodelled Abuja City Gate, with its beautiful water fountain representing the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, tells every visitor and Nigerians arriving from the airport that they have entered a city built on unity, diversity and shared aspirations,” he said.
President Tinubu further declared that the remodelled gateway now ranks among notable public monuments worldwide, commending the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, for his commitment to restoring the beauty and prestige of Abuja.
“I commend the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Barrister Eze Nyesom Wike, CON, for remodelling the monument and for your relentless dedication to transforming the general ambience of the Federal Capital Territory.
“I also acknowledge the numerous infrastructural projects currently being undertaken across the capital city. Roads are being constructed and expanded, public spaces are being improved, and critical infrastructure is receiving renewed attention.”
The President praised Wike’s performance, saying his achievements demonstrate the impact of purposeful leadership.
“When you share a vision with a man of action, you see results. Minister Wike, you have proven once again to be a true driver of the Renewed Hope Agenda. I say well done,” he said.
