Nigeria at 63: Wike pledges to enhance Abuja infrastructural development
By Hudu Yakubu, Abuja
The Minister of the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr Nyesom Wike, has pledged to enhance the infrastructural development of the FCT and improve essential social services to meet the growing needs of the residents.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Press, office of the minister, Mr. Anthony Ogunleye and made available to Journalist in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital
Wike enjoined resident of the Nigeria’s capital city to rededicate themselves to the vision of a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
The Minister noted that building a strong and resilient society requires collective effort of all residents of the city.
This, the minister said implies working together to address the issues that confront them, be it in the areas of education, healthcare, infrastructure, or security.
He added that, it also means fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that empowers our youth and creates opportunities for all.
Barr Wike opined that as residents of the FCT, they are not only Nigerians but also representatives of the nation’s diversity and unity which he said symbolizes the coming together of people from all corners of Nigeria.
“It is a place where unity should thrive, where differences should be celebrated and where the tenets of nationhood should be exemplified“, he added.
According to him, ” Independence Day is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by our forebears, the struggles they endured, and the dreams they held for a united and prosperous Nigeria.
Over the past 63 years, Nigeria has faced its fair share of challenges and triumphs. Our journey as a nation has been marked by moments of joy and sorrow, progress and setbacks. Yet, through it all, we have remained steadfast, resilient, and hopeful.
In the FCT, where diversity is our strength, let us also remember our unique role as residents. We must live up to the tenets of unity that our capital represents. Let us build bridges across cultures, religions, and ethnicities.
On this occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, I stand before you with a solemn commitment on behalf of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA)”, Wike stated.
He pledged to work tirelessly towards creating a more livable and prosperous Abuja, a city that reflects the aspirations of all its inhabitants.
“Let us be reminded therefore, of our obligation to society. Our responsibilities as citizens extend beyond our rights. We must contribute to the well-being of our fellow Nigerians and actively participate in the development of our communities and the nation as a whole”.
Fellow residents of the FCT, on behalf of the Federal Capital Territory, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt congratulations to you on the special occasion of the 63rd independence anniversary of our beloved country, Nigeria.
This day holds significant historical and cultural importance for our great nation, and it is a moment for us to reflect on our past achievements and the path to an even greater future ahead”, the minister explained further.
While stressing that the monumental task of building Abuja of the dream of the founding fathers cannot be accomplished by the FCTA alone, he emphasized that it is a collective endeavor that requires the active participation and commitment of every resident.
To this end, Wike implored all residents of the FCT to fulfill their civic responsibilities by paying their taxes promptly, including ground rents and utility bills which he said are crucial for sustaining and enhancing the services and infrastructure that make the city function smoothly.
“As we strive to make Abuja a great city, I call upon every resident to join hands with us. Together, we can build the FCT of our collective dreams, one that stands as a beacon of progress, unity, and prosperity for all.
As we celebrate our Independence Day, let us do so with a sense of purpose and a commitment to building a better future for ourselves and generations to come. I am confident that with our unwavering resolve, our best days are yet to come.
Once again, I extend my warmest congratulations to you all on this special day. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Federal Capital Territory and may He guide us on the path to a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous nation“, he prayed.