The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has commended the Dunamis International Gospel Centre for constructing a pedestrian bridge in Abuja, describing the intervention as a demonstration of responsible leadership and a commitment to community welfare.
Wike said leadership, whether in government, religious organisations, private institutions or families, should be measured by tangible contributions to society rather than declarations of good intentions.
The minister spoke on Friday during the commissioning of the pedestrian bridge, constructed by Dunamis International Gospel Centre as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the FCT.
He said he attended the ceremony to recognise the church’s commitment to translating its religious teachings into practical interventions that improve people’s lives.
Commending the Senior Pastor of the church, Dr Paul Enenche, and his wife for their leadership, Wike said religious organisations had an important role to play in addressing societal challenges beyond their spiritual responsibilities.
“Watching the documentary and seeing what you have done, touching lives, not only with your soul, but talking about the welfare of other people, that is leadership,” he said.
The minister noted that such interventions required sacrifices, particularly when organisations had competing financial obligations, adding that investing resources in projects that benefit the wider community demonstrated a commitment to the public good.
According to him, the church’s decision to undertake the project showed that leadership involved making difficult choices and deploying available resources to address the needs of others.
Wike recalled the church’s previous engagements with the FCT Administration, explaining that an application submitted in 2018 was brought to his attention when the church renewed its request in February 2026.
He said the approval was granted within a short period, demonstrating the administration’s willingness to support initiatives that promote public welfare.
The minister urged individuals and organisations to acknowledge government efforts where progress had been made while offering constructive criticism where necessary.
He maintained that good governance should be assessed by tangible achievements and their impact on the people rather than political rhetoric or public relations.
Wike also stressed that public office holders must be prepared to account for their stewardship, noting that leadership carried the responsibility to demonstrate how entrusted opportunities had been utilised.
He said elected representatives should be able to identify concrete contributions made during their time in office rather than rely solely on claims of having represented their constituents.
According to him, future generations would remember leaders for their actions and the impact of their decisions on society.
The minister called for courage and consistency in leadership, saying those entrusted with responsibility must sometimes make difficult decisions, even when such decisions attract criticism.
He cautioned Nigerians against relying exclusively on social media narratives when assessing public office holders, urging them to consider their capacity, performance and verifiable contributions.
Wike also assured the church of the FCT Administration’s willingness to support initiatives that promote public safety and community development. He indicated that the government would consider contributing 50 per cent towards an associated project.
He encouraged other religious institutions, corporate organisations and individuals to emulate Dunamis International Gospel Centre by investing in projects that address community needs.
The minister said the pedestrian bridge demonstrated the importance of partnerships between government and non-governmental institutions in complementing public infrastructure and improving residents’ welfare.
Earlier, Enenche said love, which forms the foundation of the Christian faith, must be demonstrated through giving, selflessness and meaningful contributions to humanity.
He said people should be remembered for the problems they solved and the positive impact they made rather than the wealth they accumulated.
The cleric urged political, religious and other leaders to recognise their responsibility to account for how they utilised their positions, resources and opportunities.
He maintained that the church’s responsibility extended beyond spiritual ministry to practical interventions that improve people’s lives and contribute to societal development.
The commissioning of the pedestrian bridge highlights the role of faith-based organisations in supporting community development and complementing government efforts to improve public infrastructure and pedestrian safety in Abuja.
