Tinubu says APC will welcome Wike if he joins the party

Summary

• President Tinubu lauds Wike’s leadership as FCT Minister during road commissioning
• Newly completed arterial road to ease traffic and boost development in Abuja
• APC open to receiving Wike, as Tinubu hints at his political future

Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu has stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is ready to welcome Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, whenever he decides to join the ruling party.

Speaking at the commissioning of the newly completed Arterial Road N16, connecting Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), in Maitama District, Abuja, on Wednesday, Tinubu praised Wike for his team spirit and leadership in executing key infrastructure projects in the FCT.

Maitama – Gishiri Bridge, Katampe, Jahi, Mabushi Link Roads

“You have proved that teamwork is the hallmark of good leadership,” Tinubu said, commending the FCT Administration under Wike for delivering the 3.7-kilometre road with complete infrastructure including bridges, interchanges, drainage, and lighting systems.

In a moment that drew laughter and applause, Tinubu addressed Wike’s current political status, 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 FCT Minister Nyesom Wike having a private moment with President Tinubu during the road commissioning

The President reiterated his commitment to national development through infrastructure, saying the project reflects the “Renewed Hope Agenda” and marks progress toward integrating underserved districts such as Katampe, Jahi, and Bwari.

“Infrastructure is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration, and economic opportunity,” Tinubu said, pledging to continue delivering on his mandate regardless of political distractions.

Wike, in his remarks, thanked the President for restoring public trust and contractor confidence, which he said has led to faster completion of projects.

“This road was awarded by this administration. It is not one of those we inherited,” Wike said. He added that all contracts awarded in the FCT under President Tinubu are progressing without abandonment.

The FCT Minister also took a swipe at opposition elements and media critics, saying: “They have no choice but to watch Mr. President for the next 17 days,” referring to the daily commissioning of projects ahead of Tinubu’s first anniversary.

In a subtle reflection on his strained relationship with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike hinted that his loyalty may no longer align with the party that brought him to national prominence.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and key PDP figure, has been at odds with the party’s leadership over its handling of the 2023 elections and internal zoning arrangements. His alliance with the APC-led federal government has fuelled speculation about his political future, a future that now appears increasingly uncertain within the PDP fold.