President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed openness to welcoming Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), into the All Progressives Congress (APC), should he choose to leave the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking on Wednesday during the commissioning of the Arterial Road N16 and other infrastructure projects in Abuja’s Katampe District, Tinubu commended Wike’s leadership and playfully referenced the minister’s popular political slogan.
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“Wike is not a member of my party—at least not yet. But if he decides to join the progressives, we will gladly welcome him,” the President said. “We’ll enjoy singing his famous anthem, ‘as e dey pain dem, e dey sweet us.’”
The comment came just a day after Tinubu urged Wike to stay focused on his mandate amid mounting criticisms. At the inauguration of the newly renovated International Conference Centre—now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre—the President described Wike as a visionary leader with a transformational impact on the FCT.
“Don’t be distracted by bystanders or busybodies. Keep up the good work,” Tinubu advised. “You have the vision, determination, and leadership to make a difference.”
Tinubu noted that the refurbished centre fits within his broader mission to reposition Nigeria for growth and excellence, emphasizing that infrastructure development is a cornerstone of his Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are committed to changing how things are done in this country. Our people deserve quality, character, and results,” he said.
Reaffirming his government’s focus, the President added that investment in key sectors—such as transportation, education, healthcare, energy, and urban development—will be central to building a prosperous and inclusive society.
