The iconic Abuja City Gate is poised for a major redesign and reconstruction, following a respectful suggestion from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike revealed this during a recent media briefing, noting that the First Lady had approached him with humility—simply asking whether the gateway could be improved, without making any demands.
Impressed by her respectful approach and motivated by the national significance of the idea, Wike said he immediately instructed construction firm Julius Berger to begin work on a new design and prepare for its implementation.
He commended Senator Tinubu’s character, describing her as a First Lady who avoids using her office to exert pressure, choosing instead to support initiatives that benefit the public.
Wike recalled an instance when she called about a power fault at the Presidential Villa while the President was away. Her concern, he noted, wasn’t about personal comfort but about ensuring continuity and proper maintenance.
“I’ve worked with several First Ladies across various levels of government, but Senator Tinubu stands out for her respectful and development-oriented mindset,” Wike stated.
The redesigned City Gate is expected to embody modern architectural aesthetics while symbolizing national pride—adding to the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s capital city.
