Abuja: The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has recognized the efforts of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his pivotal role in transforming the Abuja City Gate into a significant recreational and environmental landmark. During a ceremony at the State House, she presented Wike with a Certificate of Commendation for his extensive remodelling works across the territory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the First Lady praised the FCT Administration for its environmental initiatives, aligning with the recently concluded category of the ongoing Green Nigeria Challenge under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). She urged state governments to follow Wike’s example by involving youth in environmental protection efforts. Tinubu expressed her admiration for the transformation of the City Gate, despite the lack of participation from states in the RHI Green Challenge, which offered a N50 million prize for the best state project.
The RHI Green Challenge was designed to motivate states to convert abandoned spaces and dumpsites into recreational areas. Unfortunately, no state entered the competition, which was intended to engage youth in environmental activities. The First Lady emphasized the importance of transforming neglected public spaces into clean and attractive environments, reflecting the vision behind the Community Category of the Challenge.
Tinubu appealed to the wives of state governors to mobilize youth participation in environmental clubs and sustainability initiatives within educational institutions. She shared her own experience in the Youth Environmental Programme for West Africa, highlighting the value of engaging young people in national development through environmental stewardship.
In his remarks, Minister Wike acknowledged the First Lady’s influence on the transformation of the Abuja City Gate, attributing the initiative to her observations after returning from foreign trips. He noted her encouragement to undertake road projects within the FCT and commended her for championing the Renewed Hope Green Initiative.
The minister revealed that the FCT Administration collaborated with the original designers of the City Gate to develop a new concept, transforming the location into a vibrant public attraction. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the RHI Certificate of Commendation to Wike by the First Lady, recognizing his extraordinary leadership and performance.
The event was attended by notable figures, including the Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shetima, Vice Chairman of RHI, wives of ministers, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) officials, and former Senators.