Anyday Wike changes his mind, we will welcome him into APC – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hinted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would gladly welcome the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, if he ever decides to officially join the ruling party.

The President made this known on Wednesday during the commissioning of the newly completed Arterial Road N16 and its adjoining roads in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Tinubu praised Wike’s leadership and collaborative spirit, commending the minister for working as a team player and delivering quality infrastructure projects within record time. The Pres,ident also acknowledged the support of traditional rulers and local communities for ensuring peaceful relocation and compensation of residents affected by the road construction.

Amid cheers from the audience, Tinubu addressed Wike’s political leaning humorously, saying, “He’s not a member of my party, not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the Progressives, we will welcome him, because we will enjoy him singing ‘as e dey sweet us’.”

The President described the newly commissioned road as more than just a physical infrastructure but a symbol of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and commitment to nation-building through strategic infrastructure.

Minister Wike, in his remarks, thanked President Tinubu for restoring public trust and boosting contractor confidence in Abuja’s infrastructural development. He disclosed that the completed Arterial Road N16 was fully initiated by the Tinubu administration, approved in September 2023, and flagged off in October 2023.

Wike took the opportunity to subtly jab opposition political coalitions, declaring that Tinubu’s good works have already neutralised their moves. “Your good works have defeated the coalition,” he said.

Presenting a technical overview of the project, Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, explained that the newly completed 3.7-kilometre road links key parts of the city, including Maitama, Jahi, Katampe, and Utako, providing six lanes with an additional two parking lanes, bridges, interchanges, drainage, lighting, and other modern urban infrastructure.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, traditional rulers, lawmakers, and top government officials, marking another milestone in the administration’s drive to modernise the nation’s capital.