President Bola Tinubu says the All Progressives Congress (APC) will welcome Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), when he decides to join the party.
Tinubu spoke on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Shehu Shagari Way and other projects in the Katampe district of the nation’s capital.
“He (Wike) is not a member of my party — not yet. But the day he changes his mind and joins the progressives, we’ll welcome him with open arms,” the president said.
Tinubu described the road as a “critical infrastructure”, saying it affirms his administration’s commitment to urban transformation.
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“This project represents more than a stretch of asphalt. Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, this administration has been guided by a philosophy anchored on reform and regeneration. Today, we have seen tangible proof of that philosophy in action,” he said.
“The corridor was underdeveloped for years, despite the central role in the Abuja master plan. Today, that narrative has changed. What was once missing as a link is now a modern, functional and durable infrastructure.
“This road will ease traffic congestion around central Abuja and improve connectivity to developing districts such as Katampe, Jahi and Mabushi. It will stimulate housing and business growth while serving as a foundation for future city integration.
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“Infrastructure is not logic. It is a necessity. It is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration and economic opportunity.
“We recognise that our nation’s development is linked to the quality of infrastructure connecting people, cities and industries.
“There’s no way industrialisation will flourish without good roads. We are investing in roads, rail, power, health care, education and digital infrastructure.
“It is only through this coordinated and integrated development that we can unlock Nigeria’s full potential. I promise you, we will.”
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In his remarks, Wike said any coalition of political parties plotting to seize power in 2027 would crumble.
There have been moves by opposition leaders, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Labour Party (LP) standard-bearer in the 2023; Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Rivers; and Nasir el-Rufai, ex-Kaduna governor, to form a coalition to defeat Tinubu in 2027.
