Politics

Wike Calls Himself a “Golden Minister” Ahead of FCT’s 50th Anniversary

Published by admin on October 11th, 2025.

Wike Calls Himself a “Golden Minister” Ahead of FCT’s 50th Anniversary

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Thursday referred to himself as a “golden minister” as he flagged off a new road project in Abuja.

Speaking during the launch of the construction of Collector Road CN2 — Emmanuel I. Ogala Street — connecting Arterial N16 (Yemi Osinbajo Way) to N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), Wike said it was no coincidence that he held key positions during milestone moments in both Rivers State and the FCT.

“I was governor when Rivers turned 50, and now I’m minister as the FCT prepares to mark its 50th anniversary next February,” he said. “Some of us have been very fortunate. We were golden governors, and now golden ministers. Not everyone gets that chance.”

Wike noted that while others held office at different points in their state’s development, he had the privilege of leading during significant anniversaries. He said such timing, in his view, was a sign of divine favour.

“Some people were governors when their states were not yet 50 years old. Some were council chairmen at that time. But I became governor when my state marked its golden jubilee, and now I’m minister as Abuja prepares to do the same. Ask yourself — is that not God’s love?”

The minister described the occasion as symbolic and said it served as a reminder that political appointments are not just the result of personal ambition or effort.

“You can sit on this chair tomorrow,” he said with a smile, “but it doesn’t mean you are loved by God the same way I am.” The remark drew laughter from officials and guests in attendance.

Wike also used the event to call on contractors and FCT residents to support efforts to complete key infrastructure projects before the 50th anniversary in 2026.

“Let’s give everything it takes, so when Abuja turns 50, people will look back and say we delivered,” he said.

The road project is part of a broader push by the FCT Administration to finish major infrastructure upgrades before the golden jubilee. The new road in Katampe District is expected to ease traffic and improve connectivity between major routes in the area.