By Adenike Lawal
The iconic Abuja City Gate is set for a major redesign and reconstruction, thanks to a courteous suggestion from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike made this known during a media briefing, revealing that the First Lady had approached him respectfully with the idea of giving the city’s gateway a new look. Rather than making demands, she asked if a redesign was possible, leaving the decision to the minister’s judgment.
Moved by her humility and the national interest behind the request, Wike said he immediately directed construction giant Julius Berger to develop a new design and prepare for execution.
Wike praised Senator Tinubu’s character, describing her as a First Lady who never uses her office to pressure or interfere with governance, but rather one who consistently engages in matters that promote public good.
He recounted moments that showcased her modesty, including a call she made about an electrical fault in the Presidential Villa while the President was away.
Her only concern, he said, was ensuring things were fixed properly — not for comfort, but for continuity.
“I have worked with several First Ladies at different levels, but Senator Tinubu stands out for her respectful and development-focused approach,” Wike stated.
The new City Gate project is expected to reflect modern design and national pride, marking yet another step in the transformation of Nigeria’s capital.
