By Remi Johnson
… tasks Governors’ Wives on Environmental Sustainability
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has recognised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, as a transformer, citing Abuja’s City Gate new look and the citywide transformation.
She gave the commendation in Abuja during a ceremony organised to honour the FCT Administration for its environmental efforts under the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Green Nigeria Challenge.
The First Lady described the remodelling of the Abuja City Gate into a recreational and environmental landmark as an outstanding example of how abandoned public spaces can be transformed into assets that improve the quality of life for citizens.
She said the City gate project perfectly reflects the objectives of the RHI Green Nigeria Challenge, which seeks to encourage communities to reclaim neglected spaces and convert them into green parks, gardens and other eco-friendly facilities.
“When I saw what he did with the City Gate, my God, unbelievable, unbelievable. I want to thank him…The remodelled Abuja City Gate is an excellent example of what abandoned public areas can become, a transformed national landmark that warmly welcomes all Nigerians and visitors to our nation’s capital,” she noted.
Senator Tinubu expressed disappointment that despite a ₦50 million prize earmarked under the Green Nigeria Challenge to encourage States to reclaim abandoned spaces and dumpsites, no State participated in that category of the competition.
She urged the wives of State Governors to mobilise young people to champion environmental protection across the country.
She explained that the initiative was designed to engage young people in environmental restoration while complementing government efforts to beautify communities and promote healthier living.
The First Lady also called on the wives of State Governors to take a leading role in nurturing environmental consciousness among young Nigerians by encouraging participation in environmental clubs and sustainability programmes in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.
She recalled her own experience as a member of the Youth Environmental Programme for West Africa while in college, describing it as an opportunity that shaped her appreciation for environmental stewardship.
“We have to engage our young people and make sure that they can help build. Everybody has something to contribute to this country. It’s a great country and that’s why we are doing all we can,” she said.
Responding, the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, disclosed that the First Lady’s commitment to environmental sustainability inspired the transformation of the Abuja City Gate.
According to him, Senator Oluremi Tinubu consistently encouraged the FCT Administration to improve the environment and create attractive public spaces where residents could relax and recreate.