The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described the territory as the “ultimate symbol” of Nigeria’s national unity, saying Abuja remains a place where Nigerians from different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds come together to live, work and thrive in peace.
Wike made the assertion in his Independence Day message to residents of the FCT, to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th anniversary of independence.
The minister said the significance of Abuja extends beyond its status as the nation’s capital, describing the city as a reflection of Nigeria’s diversity and shared national identity.
In a message personally signed by him, Wike said “The Federal Capital Territory stands as the ultimate symbol of our national unity—a place where Nigerians from every tribe, tongue, and faith come together to live, work, and thrive in peace. Abuja is not just a city; it is the heartbeat of a diverse people bound by a common destiny,” Wike said.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66-year journey, the minister said the anniversary was an opportunity to acknowledge the resilience of Nigerians while reaffirming the country’s commitment to freedom, unity and progress.
He said the FCT, as the nation’s capital, had a responsibility to reflect the ideals of a united Nigeria and set a standard for inclusive governance and development.
“As an administration, our primary mission remains the transformation of Abuja into a world-class capital city that reflects this collective strength. We are driven by a vision of a modern, inclusive, and functional territory where public services work for everyone,” he said.
Wike said the administration’s development agenda was being extended beyond the city centre to communities across the territory, stressing that residents in the outskirts and rural areas should also benefit from government projects and services.
He cited investments in road infrastructure, public transportation, healthcare and education as part of efforts to build an FCT that works for all residents.
According to him, the administration has upgraded road networks across the territory, including roads linking the city centre with remote communities, while incorporating drainage and solar lighting into some of the projects.
He also said ultramodern bus terminals had been built in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, with plans to extend the facilities to Kuje, Bwari and Gwagwalada.
On social services, Wike said the administration was improving access to healthcare and education across the area councils, arguing that a healthy and educated population remained essential to the development of any society.
The minister also assured residents that security remained a priority, saying the administration was working with security agencies to strengthen surveillance, community policing and the use of modern technology to combat crime.
Wike called on residents to reciprocate government’s development efforts by remaining law-abiding, protecting public infrastructure and maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the capital.
“I, therefore, urge you all to remain law-abiding, support government’s development initiatives, and protect our public infrastructure from vandalism. Let us take pride in our surroundings and maintain the cleanliness and orderliness of our beautiful capital,” he said.
As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary, Wike further urged residents to preserve the spirit of peaceful coexistence and tolerance that he said defines Abuja’s character.
He said the anniversary should serve as a reminder of the possibilities that exist when Nigerians work towards a common purpose and shared national vision.
“In conclusion, I urge us to continue to coexist in harmony, showing the love and tolerance that make our city a true home for all. Let this anniversary serve as a reminder of what we can achieve when we work with a shared purpose and a unified vision. Together, we will build an FCT that we can all be proud of – a beacon of hope and prosperity for the entire African continent,” he said.
Wike thanked residents for their partnership and resilience, and congratulated them on the Independence anniversary.
“Happy Independence Day, and may God bless the Federal Capital Territory, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
