The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Sunday led a delegation of Abuja residents to the Presidential Villa to extend Sallah greetings to President Bola Tinubu.
The visit, which included Vice President Kashim Shettima, Minister of Information Mohamed Idris, and other prominent FCT stakeholders, took place amid speculation regarding Wike’s health after reports surfaced that he had collapsed at a meeting on Friday and was flown to France for medical attention.
However, Wike’s presence at the event dismissed the rumors, as he congratulated the Muslim community on completing 30 days of fasting, prayers, and sacrifice.
During the visit, President Tinubu praised Wike’s leadership in transforming the capital city, acknowledging his dedication to infrastructure development and governance reforms.
Wike, in his remarks, described the visit as historic, marking the first time FCT residents have personally conveyed Sallah greetings to the president.
“As we approach the second anniversary of your administration, we are excited about the array of impactful projects lined up for commissioning,” Wike stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to economic growth and national development.
The FCT Minister expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s ongoing support, highlighting key policy decisions that have strengthened governance in Abuja:
1. Exit of the FCT Administration (FCTA) from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) – boosting financial autonomy for development.
2. Creation of the FCT Civil Service Commission – improving career growth and service delivery.
3. Establishment of two new Mandate Secretariats for Women and Youth Affairs – ensuring inclusivity in governance.
“These bold initiatives have enhanced the efficiency of the FCTA and positioned us to achieve greater milestones,” Wike added.
He also recalled the president’s physical presence at the commissioning of five out of nine projects during Tinubu’s first anniversary in office, describing it as an unprecedented show of support for the FCT.
Wike reaffirmed the loyalty of the FCT residents to the Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that Abuja’s diversity is a strength in fostering national progress.
“The delegation before you today reflects the rich diversity of the Federal Capital Territory. Despite our different backgrounds, we are united in our unwavering support for your administration,” he told Tinubu.
President Tinubu, in his response, urged continued collaboration, tolerance, and unity, emphasizing that governance is a collective responsibility.
The visit not only reaffirmed the FCT’s commitment to the Tinubu administration but also showcased the rapid transformation taking place in Abuja under Wike’s leadership.
