Remodelled Abuja City Gate Rivals Global Capitals, Says Oluremi Tinubu at Commissioning

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has declared that the newly remodelled Abuja City Gate now compares favourably with the iconic gateways of major capital cities around the world, describing it as a powerful symbol of national unity, identity and pride.

Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the commissioning ceremony on Friday, the First Lady said the upgraded monument reflects the aspirations of Nigerians and provides visitors with a fitting first impression of the nation’s capital.

She noted that Abuja, as Nigeria’s administrative and diplomatic capital where citizens from all 36 states converge, deserves a gateway that mirrors the country’s stature and collective aspirations.

According to her, the remodelled City Gate, featuring a striking water fountain symbolising the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), projects a message of unity, diversity and shared national purpose to both Nigerians and international visitors arriving through the city.

The First Lady commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his commitment to improving Abuja’s aesthetics and urban landscape, describing him as a dedicated driver of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

She said the commissioning was particularly significant as it coincided with the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration and the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory.

“When vision is matched with action, tangible results are achieved,” she said, applauding Wike’s efforts in transforming key public infrastructure across the capital.

Speaking at the event, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike disclosed that the remodelling project was initiated following observations and repeated reminders from the First Lady that Abuja’s gateway did not reflect the status of Nigeria’s capital city.

He explained that he subsequently directed the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to produce a befitting redesign, while construction giant Julius Berger was engaged to execute the project.

Wike said the transformation demonstrates what can be achieved through purposeful leadership and determination, adding that the remodelled monument has become a world-class landmark capable of inspiring pride among Nigerians and visitors alike.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as another milestone in the ongoing urban renewal programme under the Tinubu administration.

She praised the First Lady for her support for initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians, noting that the remodelled Abuja City Gate stands as a visible symbol of infrastructure development, national pride and the Renewed Hope transformation taking place across the Federal Capital Territory.