Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, led a delegation of Abuja residents to the presidential villa on Sunday to extend Sallah greetings to President Bola Tinubu.
The occasion was also attended by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohamed Idris, and other prominent FCT indigenes.
Tinubu commended Wike for his efforts in enhancing the status of Abuja as the nation’s capital city.
This visit came amid rumors regarding Wike’s health after reports he had collapsed at a meeting on Friday and was flown to France for medical attention.
During the Sallah homage, Wike extended his congratulations to President Tinubu and the Muslim community on the conclusion of the 30 days of fasting, prayers, and sacrifice.
He highlighted the historic nature of the visit, marking the first time FCT residents have had the opportunity to personally convey their greetings to the president during this blessed period.
“As we approach the second anniversary of your administration, we are excited about the array of impactful projects that we have lined up for commissioning,” Wike stated.
He emphasised that these initiatives, aimed at improving infrastructure and economic opportunities, serve as evidence of the president’s commitment to national development.
“We look forward to hosting Your Excellency in the FCT to witness firsthand the tangible progress that has been made under your leadership over the last 12 months,” he added.
Wike praised the president’s dedication to fostering unity, good governance, and national development, saying, “The residents of the FCT are deeply grateful for your leadership and the initiatives being undertaken to enhance the well-being of all of us.”
He reaffirmed their loyalty to the Renewed Hope Agenda and pledged continued cooperation to ensure the success of the administration’s exemplary programs and policies.
“The delegation before you today reflects the rich diversity of the Federal Capital Territory. It includes representatives from various sectors, including religious, political, and traditional leaders, heads of security agencies, officials of the FCT Administration, media representatives, and ordinary residents,” he noted.
The minister emphasised that, despite their different backgrounds, they are united in their support for Tinubu’s administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This unity demonstrates the collective commitment of the people of the FCT to national progress and development under your visionary leadership,” he added.
While expressing gratitude for the president’s support for the FCT Administration, Wike said none of their significant governance and development strides would have been possible without Tinubu’s commitment to the FCT and its residents.
“Your approval of the exit of the FCTA from the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the creation of the FCT Civil Service Commission, and the establishment of two new critical Mandate Secretariats for Women and Youths have strengthened our governance structure and improved service delivery, translating into a better life for the ordinary citizen,” he said.
“These bold initiatives have enhanced the efficiency of the FCTA and positioned us to achieve greater milestones.
“We still remember the unprecedented support you granted us last year during your first anniversary by being physically present at five out of the nine projects commissioned to commemorate the occasion,” Wike said.
