Nigeria @ 65 : Wike felicitates with FCT residents, Nigerians

By Ben Adoga, Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has felicitated the FCT residents and Nigerians as a whole on the occasion of Nigeria’s 65 independence anniversary.

In a statement to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th independence, Wike paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers for laying the foundation for a great nation called Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu for reforms, under the mantra of the renewed hope agenda that is reshaping the economy.

He commended the FCT residents for supporting the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu and declared that the FCT remained the most peaceful city in the country.

The statement read in part: “This is a special occasion when we pay tribute to our founding fathers who laboured dauntlessly to birth a formidable country which today stands tall in the comity of nations. It is also a celebration of our brotherhood and unity, which have been woven from the loom of our diversity.

“As such, and in keeping with the theme for this year’s celebration, all hands must be on deck to ensure that the labour of the nation’s founding fathers is not in vain.  I, therefore, appeal to all residents to continue to live true to the ideals of the heroes of our land. The Federal Capital Territory remains Nigeria’s symbol of unity and nationhood, hence, we must continue to embody the faith that we are greater together.”

Commending the FCT residents, Wike said: “Let me use this occasion to express my appreciation to residents of the FCT for their unwavering support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which centres on economic growth, national security, food security, sustainable development and infrastructure development.

“In keeping with the central objective of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we have made determined progress on several fronts. The FCT Administration, with your unflinching support, will continue to work to provide first-class infrastructure and public utilities as demonstrated in the completion and commissioning of strategic roads and public utilities.

On infrastructure and the economy, the minister stated: “It is our firm belief that no city can be said to be a city without a good network of roads, hence our focus on road construction. Other sectors are receiving due attention as well.

“We have reconstructed most of our schools and hospitals and provided much needed equipment and personnel. We have supported our farmers, promoted Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, (MSMEs) and, by doing so, empowered our youths and women.  I assure you that we will continue to work to reinvigorate the economy and enhance living standards of the good people of FCT.

Also, on Security of lives and property, Wike said the FCT was one of the most peaceful places in the country.

“Residents have also remained intentional about living together in peace and harmony in spite of a few distractions. Consequently, the FCT has become one of the most peaceful places to reside in the entire country. This is not only due to the security measures we have put in place, but also because of zero tolerance of residents for insecurity, and their readiness to promote peace in every part of the Territory.”

Wike drew the attention of residents to the forthcoming FCT area council elections and implored all residents to conduct themselves peacefully.

‘Come February 2026, the FCT will kick off the electioneering process in the country as residents head to the polls to elect new chairmen and councilors for the six area councils. I implore residents to go about campaigning for candidates of their choice in a peaceful and orderly manner.

“I also encourage everyone to come out en masse when the time comes, to vote for leaders who evidently have their interest at heart; leaders who have vision and capacity to attract development and prosperity to the people.”

He assured residents of his administration’s resolve to ensure safety, security as well as law and order in the FCT at all times. “I, therefore, appeal to all residents to go about their lawful businesses, to be watchful over their neighbourhoods and to report all suspicious movements to the law enforcement agents,” he stated as he wished every resident: “Happy Independence Anniversary Celebrations!”