First Lady Commends Wike’s Transformation of Abuja City Gate, Urges Youth Participation in Environmental Protection

The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for transforming Abuja’s City Gate into a modern recreational and environmental landmark, describing the project as a model for urban renewal across the country.

Speaking during a ceremony to honour the FCT Administration for its environmental efforts under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Green Nigeria Challenge, the First Lady said the redevelopment of the City Gate reflects the vision of creating cleaner and more attractive public spaces.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu described the transformation as “unbelievable” and commended the FCT Minister for turning an abandoned area into a vibrant public attraction.

She expressed disappointment that no state participated in the Community Category of the Green Nigeria Challenge despite a N50 million prize aimed at encouraging states to reclaim neglected public spaces and dumpsites.

According to her, the initiative was designed to mobilise young people to transform degraded environments into green parks, gardens and other eco-friendly spaces that would improve public health and quality of life.

The First Lady also called on the wives of state governors to encourage children and young people to join environmental clubs and sustainability programmes in schools and tertiary institutions.

She stressed that young Nigerians have an important role to play in protecting the environment and contributing to national development.

Responding, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, revealed that the First Lady inspired the City Gate transformation after urging him to improve the appearance of the nation’s capital following her observations during visits to other countries.

He said the FCT Administration subsequently engaged the original designers of the City Gate to develop a new concept, which has transformed the area into a popular recreational destination.

Wike announced plans to replicate the project in the Lifecamp area of Abuja by redesigning an existing green space into another modern recreation centre for residents.

He described environmental sustainability as essential to national development, noting that clean and well-maintained green spaces contribute significantly to the beauty and livability of cities.

The minister thanked the First Lady for recognising the efforts of the FCT Administration, saying her guidance had inspired the government to improve Abuja’s environment.

At the event, Senator Oluremi Tinubu presented Certificates of Commendation to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, on behalf of the Renewed Hope Initiative.

She also announced that entries for the Household and State categories of the Green Nigeria Challenge will remain open until December 20, 2026.