By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has urged Nigerians to uphold the legacy of the nation’s founding fathers by living in unity and peace, stressing that “Nigeria is greater together.”
In his Independence Day message to residents of the FCT on Tuesday to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary, Wike said the occasion was not only a celebration of freedom but also a moment for sober reflection and renewed commitment to nation-building.
The Minister commended residents for their support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the administration had recorded significant progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and security. He said strategic roads and public utilities had been completed, while schools and hospitals across the Territory had been reconstructed and equipped.
According to him, the FCT Administration has also empowered farmers, supported Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and created opportunities for youths and women in line with the federal government’s development priorities.
“Residents have remained intentional about living in peace and harmony, and this is why the FCT remains one of the most peaceful places to reside in Nigeria,” he stated, adding that law enforcement agencies and the Administration would continue to safeguard lives and property across the Territory.
Looking ahead to the 2026 area council elections, Wike called on residents to participate actively and peacefully. He urged voters to support leaders with vision and capacity to deliver development, assuring that security agencies would provide adequate protection throughout the exercise.
Despite challenges facing the country, the Minister expressed optimism in Nigeria’s future, praising President Tinubu’s efforts at prioritising citizens’ welfare and delivering “unprecedented development” in the FCT.
“As we celebrate 65 years of independence, we must remain faithful to the ideals of our heroes past and to the collective aspirations that make us stronger as one nation,” Wike said.
He wished residents a happy Independence celebration, praying for continued peace and prosperity in the Territory and across Nigeria.
