First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has expressed disappointment over the failure of state governments to participate in the Federal Government’s ₦50 million Green Challenge, designed to encourage the restoration of abandoned public spaces and dumpsites across the country.
Speaking during a ceremony recognising the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration for its environmental achievements under the Renewed Hope Green Initiative, the First Lady urged state governments to become more committed to environmental sustainability and youth participation.
According to her, despite the attractive cash prize, no state submitted an entry for the competition.
“It was a ₦50 million prize and no state entered. This was supposed to get our youth involved,” she said.
Remi Tinubu Commends Wike
While expressing disappointment over the low participation, the First Lady praised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for transforming Abuja’s City Gate into a modern recreational and environmental landmark.
Describing the project as remarkable, she commended the minister for improving one of the capital city’s most recognised locations.
“When I saw what he did with the City Gate, my God, unbelievable. I want to thank him. He has done very well,” she stated.
She also encouraged state governments to involve more young people in environmental clubs and sustainability programmes to promote cleaner communities.
Wike Says First Lady Inspired the Project
Responding, Wike revealed that the First Lady was the driving force behind the City Gate transformation.
According to him, Senator Tinubu repeatedly challenged the FCT Administration to improve Abuja’s appearance after comparing it with well-maintained public spaces in other countries.
“She called on me and said, ‘Why do we travel abroad and we do not learn anything when we travel? Look at our City Gate and compare it with what you see in other countries,’” Wike recalled.
He disclosed that the administration later engaged the original designers of the City Gate to redesign the facility, which has now become one of Abuja’s most popular public attractions.
More Recreational Projects Planned
The FCT Minister also announced plans to replicate similar projects in other parts of Abuja, including the Life Camp area, where an existing green space will be redeveloped into another recreational park.
Wike stressed that environmental sustainability is essential for modern cities, noting that clean surroundings and green spaces contribute significantly to urban development and quality of life.
He thanked the First Lady for recognising the administration’s efforts, saying her encouragement had inspired the ongoing transformation of the nation’s capital.
