Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has asserted that no nation can truly progress without a solid infrastructure base, describing it as the “architecture of equality” and the cornerstone of national development.
Wike made the declaration on Thursday while delivering the 2025 edition of the Distinguished Personality Lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. His lecture, titled “The Nigeria of Our Dreams,” examined the critical roles of infrastructure, leadership, and good governance in the country’s future.
“Infrastructure is not just about roads and bridges,” Wike said. “It is about connecting destinies, unlocking human potential, and laying the foundation for sustainable national transformation.”
He stressed that infrastructure is a key driver of dignity, inclusion, productivity, and hope—bridging the wide gap between urban privilege and rural neglect.
“The Nigeria of our dreams is one where a child in rural Zamfara enjoys the same access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities as a child in urban Lagos,” he declared. “Reliable transportation, steady power supply, and access to digital technology should not be luxuries—they are necessities.”
Wike commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing infrastructure through his Renewed Hope Agenda, saying it reflects bold leadership and a deep commitment to repositioning the country.
“Even the harshest critic of President Tinubu would admit that infrastructure delivery is improving,” Wike stated. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is more than a slogan—it’s a recalibration of our national priorities.”
He cited Abuja’s rapid transformation as a symbol of what is possible when vision is backed by political will, noting that his own efforts in the FCT have been propelled by the President’s unwavering support.
“Though I may be driving the engine of change in the FCT, none of it would have been possible without President Tinubu’s relentless support,” he emphasized.
According to Wike, the capital city has, within two years, evolved into a more fitting reflection of Nigeria’s status as Africa’s most populous nation—proof of what determined leadership can accomplish.
Beyond infrastructure, Wike identified other critical pillars for achieving the Nigeria of our dreams: strong democratic institutions, adherence to the rule of law, quality education, efficient healthcare, human capital development, economic growth, security, national unity, and the empowerment of local governments.
“Democracy must go beyond periodic elections,” he said. “It must become a culture of transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership.”
Quoting Stanford University scholar Prof. Larry Diamond, Wike reminded his audience that sustaining democracy is often more difficult than attaining it.
“Democracy is not a potted plant to be uprooted and transplanted anywhere,” he said. “It requires nurturing—through sacrifice, commitment, and constant vigilance.”
He also called for a new ethic in public service—one grounded in integrity and responsibility.
“Holding public office is not a personal privilege,” he stated. “It is a sacred trust that must be honoured and protected.”
In his closing remarks, Wike urged both leaders and citizens to take collective responsibility for building a just, innovative, and equitable Nigeria.
“The Nigerian dream is not something to merely wish for—it’s something we must work for,” he said. “We must build it daily, with responsible leadership, active citizenship, and unwavering determination to make our country great.”
