President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday hinted at the possibility of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the party would gladly welcome him whenever he chooses to make the move.
Tinubu made the remark while commissioning the Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way) from Ring Road One (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Road), along with other completed roads in the Katampe District of Abuja.
The President praised Wike for his performance as FCT Minister, declaring that the former Rivers State Governor has continued to justify the confidence reposed in him.
“Even though Wike is not yet a member of our party, we are very proud of him. He is doing well. When he decides to join us, we will open our doors wide. With Wike, APC will continue to rejoice while the opposition keeps groaning,” Tinubu said.
Wike, who is a prominent member of the Nigerian main opposition Party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been working closely with the Tinubu administration since his appointment, fueling speculations about a potential defection to the Progressive Party, the APC..
The President’s comment adds fresh momentum to those speculations, particularly as the 2027 election cycle begins to take shape.
While the political jab drew laughter from dignitaries and attendees, Tinubu quickly returned to the core message of the day infrastructure delivery under his Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This project represents more than just a stretch of asphalt,” Tinubu said. “It affirms our commitment to urban transformation. Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, this administration has been guided by a philosophy anchored on reform and regeneration. Today, we see tangible proof of that vision in action.”
He commended the FCT Administration, led by Wike, for successfully delivering the long-awaited road project which had remained undeveloped for years despite its importance to the Abuja Master Plan.
“What was once a missing link is now a vital artery modern, functional, and durable. This road will ease traffic congestion in central Abuja and improve connectivity to key districts like Katampe, Jahi, and Mabushi,” he noted.
Tinubu emphasised that infrastructure development is central to Nigeria’s progress and competitiveness, stating that the federal government is investing in roads, rail, power, healthcare, education, and digital systems.
“Infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the bedrock of national growth, social integration, and economic opportunity. There is no way industrialization can thrive without roads. And I promise you, we will keep building,” President Tinubu said.
He praised Wike’s team spirit and collaboration, attributing the project’s success to collective leadership.
“Wike could not have achieved this alone. It takes a team and you have shown that teamwork is the hallmark of good leadership,” the President said.
President Tinubu urged Abuja residents to take ownership of the infrastructure and protect it.
“The government has played its part. Now it’s your turn. Protect this road and use it wisely. We didn’t allow protests or distractions to stop us and we won’t stop building,” he affirmed.
Earlier, the Minister of the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, declared that Abuja’s transformation has entered a new phase under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Wike described the road as more than an engineering feat calling it a symbol of urban renewal and national ambition.
“This project represents more than just a stretch of asphalt,” Wike said.
“It affirms our commitment to urban transformation. What was once a missing link in the Abuja Master Plan is now a modern, functional, and durable infrastructure that reconnects the capital to its future”, he stated
Wike emphasised that the corridor had remained underdeveloped for years despite its importance to city planning. The revitalised arterial now promises to ease traffic congestion around Central Abuja while improving access to fast-growing districts like Katampe, Jahi, and Mabushi.
“This road will not only open up the FCT for housing and commercial growth, but also serve as a foundation for future city integration,” he added.