Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the significant progress and development taking place in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike. Ortom, who accompanied Wike on an inspection tour of infrastructural projects in Abuja, described the improvements as “monumental” and unprecedented.
Ortom praised President Tinubu for appointing Wike, a long-time friend and opposition figure, to manage the affairs of the FCT despite their political differences. He said this decision demonstrates the President’s commitment to putting national interest above partisan politics.
“I want to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding our friend worthy of serving as the Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, specifically the Federal Capital Territory. This is a great feat,” Ortom said.
Drawing on his extensive political experience since 1982, including his tenure as a former minister, Ortom noted that the level of transformation in Abuja over the past year is unlike anything he has seen before. He remarked that the rapid modernization now requires a guide to navigate the city.
He cited major infrastructure projects like the Kubu and Mabushi bus terminals as examples of modernization usually seen in developed countries but now happening in Nigeria’s capital.
Ortom also praised President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” crediting it with revitalizing progress despite Nigeria’s economic and security challenges. While acknowledging these difficulties, Ortom called for unity across party lines to support the President’s reforms.
“Yes, we have challenges as a country… But truly, we can testify to the fact that the time Mr. President came in, he came in when the country was at its lowest, and today, he is trying to lift the country back on its feet again,” he stated.
Highlighting the inclusive approach of Tinubu’s administration, Ortom applauded the appointment of individuals from outside the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), such as Wike, who is a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“If Mr. President were a partisan man, he would not bring my friend in. There are several other people that he has brought on board who are not members of the APC, but who he feels can add value to the development of our country,” Ortom said.
He urged Nigerians to put aside political differences and support the government’s reform agenda to ensure national progress.
“Let us leave politics aside and join hands with him to ensure that we are not distracting him about 2027 and so on. Let us work together with him, because he means well,” Ortom added.
The former Benue governor expressed pride in Wike’s performance and thanked God for the achievements in the FCT, calling for continued support to maintain the momentum of development.
