By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
President Bola Tinubu has unveiled the newly remodeled Abuja City Gate, describing it as a bold symbol of national unity and a major step in positioning Nigeria’s capital among the world’s leading cities.
The upgraded landmark, officially commissioned on Thursday, transforms what was once a simple gateway into a modern architectural attraction featuring a spectacular Unity Fountain, landscaped gardens, recreational spaces, food courts, parking facilities and enhanced security infrastructure.
Represented by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the ceremony, the President said the redesigned City Gate embodies the Renewed Hope Agenda’s commitment to world-class infrastructure and urban renewal.
He noted that the monument is no longer merely an entry point into Abuja but a landmark that can stand alongside iconic gateways in major cities across the globe, offering visitors an impressive first impression of Nigeria’s capital.
Tinubu praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for driving the rapid transformation of Abuja through strategic infrastructure projects, saying the visible changes across the city demonstrate the administration’s resolve to deliver quality public facilities.
He also called on residents to protect and preserve the new facility, stressing that public infrastructure belongs to all Nigerians and must be safeguarded for future generations.
Speaking during the unveiling, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike revealed that the project was inspired by a recommendation from First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, who urged the FCT Administration to transform the ageing structure into a befitting national monument.
According to Wike, the rehabilitation contract was awarded in November 2025 and completed within a short period with the full backing of President Tinubu.
He said the redesigned complex now boasts modern recreational areas, food courts, parking spaces and a maintenance plan aimed at preserving its world-class standards.
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as another milestone in Abuja’s ongoing urban renewal programme, saying it reflects the administration’s vision of building a modern, competitive and globally attractive capital city.
Also speaking, Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda, recalled that the Abuja City Gate was originally constructed in 1991 to commemorate the relocation of Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja but had deteriorated over the years due to neglect.
He explained that the rehabilitated monument now features a striking Unity Fountain with 37 illuminated water nozzles representing Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, modern lighting systems, landscaped green areas, irrigation facilities, public conveniences, parking for 60 vehicles and upgraded security installations.
Dauda said the transformation positions the City Gate as a major tourism and recreational destination while reinforcing Abuja’s image as a modern capital worthy of global recognition.
