President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday signaled that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is open to welcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, into its ranks whenever he chooses to make the move.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Arterial Road N16—linking Shehu Shagari Way (Ring Road I) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way)—and other key infrastructure projects in the Katampe District of Abuja, the President lauded Wike’s performance, declaring that the former Rivers State Governor has lived up to the expectations of his office.
“Even though Wike is not yet a member of our party, we are very proud of him. He is doing well. When he decides to join us, we will open our doors wide,” Tinubu said, to the applause of dignitaries. “With Wike, APC will continue to rejoice while the opposition keeps groaning.”
Wike, a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has worked closely with the Tinubu administration since his appointment last year, fueling ongoing speculation about a potential defection to the ruling party.
Tinubu’s remarks have now added fresh momentum to those rumors, as political calculations for the 2027 general elections begin to crystallize.
Despite the political undertones, the President quickly pivoted back to the day’s agenda—celebrating infrastructure delivery under his Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This project represents more than just a stretch of asphalt,” Tinubu said. “It affirms our commitment to urban transformation. Since assuming office, this administration has been guided by a philosophy anchored on reform and regeneration. Today, we see tangible proof of that vision.”
He applauded the FCT Administration for completing the long-neglected road, which had been stalled for years despite its centrality to the Abuja Master Plan.
“What was once a missing link is now a vital artery—modern, functional, and durable. This road will ease traffic congestion in Central Abuja and enhance connectivity to Katampe, Jahi, Mabushi, and beyond,” he noted.
Reaffirming the importance of infrastructure to national development, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to roads, railways, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure.
“Infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the bedrock of economic opportunity, industrialization, and national integration. And I promise you—we will keep building,” he vowed.
The President also credited the road’s success to collaborative leadership within the FCT team.
“Barrister Wike could not have achieved this alone. It takes teamwork, and you have shown that the right leadership delivers results,” Tinubu said.
He called on Abuja residents to take ownership of the newly delivered infrastructure and ensure its preservation.
“The government has played its part. Now it’s your turn. Use this road wisely, protect it, and don’t let distractions deter development. We didn’t allow protests to stop us, and we won’t stop building.”
In his own remarks, the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, described the road as more than an engineering feat, calling it a symbol of national renewal and future-focused governance.
“This project is not just concrete and asphalt. It’s a bold statement that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Abuja is reclaiming its vision,” Wike said. “What was once a gap in the city’s plan is now a functional and durable connection to Abuja’s future.”
He noted that the corridor had remained dormant for years, despite its critical role in urban mobility and development. With its completion, the revitalized artery is expected to decongest traffic in central districts and unlock housing and commercial opportunities.
“This road will open up the FCT for new investments and help integrate emerging districts into the city’s economy. It lays the foundation for a more connected and resilient Abuja,” Wike added.
The Arterial Road N16 project forms part of a broader wave of infrastructure projects being unveiled across the FCT in a 10-day commissioning campaign approved by President Tinubu.
