Tinubu, Wike Hail Julius Berger as Remodeled Abuja City Gate Unveils New Capital Landmark By Raymond Enoch

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, have commended Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for delivering the transformed Abuja City Gate, describing the iconic structure as a powerful symbol of national renewal, unity and the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s capital.

The remodeled monument was inaugurated on Thursday in Abuja as part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration and the 50th anniversary of the Federal Capital Territory. President Tinubu was represented at the ceremony by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

In his address, the President described the Abuja City Gate as one of Nigeria’s most recognizable national landmarks, saying its transformation reflects his administration’s commitment to building a modern capital that reflects the country’s aspirations and global status.

He noted that the upgraded gateway now offers visitors a befitting first impression of Abuja, adding that the striking water fountain, symbolizing Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, places the monument among world-class urban landmarks.

“The renewed City Gate demonstrates our resolve to deliver public infrastructure that inspires national pride and projects Nigeria’s image to the world,” the President stated.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike praised Julius Berger for executing what he described as a landmark project that has restored the prestige and beauty of Abuja’s foremost entrance.

According to him, the City Gate had suffered years of neglect before the current intervention. He disclosed that the decision to remodel the monument was inspired by the First Lady’s concern over the deteriorating condition of the historic structure.

Wike explained that following Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s recommendation, Julius Berger designed the remodeling concept and successfully executed the reconstruction, landscaping and beautification of the entire facility.

He said the project included the installation of the iconic water fountain representing Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT, upgraded architectural features, improved public spaces, parking facilities and other visitor-friendly amenities, all completed within the timeline approved by the FCT Administration.

To ensure the facility remains in excellent condition, Wike announced that the FCT Administration would sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Julius Berger for the long-term maintenance of the monument.

He also revealed plans to further develop the surrounding environment with restaurants, recreational facilities, public conveniences and additional parking spaces, transforming the City Gate into a major tourism and leisure destination where residents and visitors can relax, socialize and create memorable experiences.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the remodeled City Gate as a visible symbol of the remarkable transformation taking place across the nation’s capital.

She said the project represents a new era of infrastructure renewal, urban rebirth and national pride.

Similarly, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, noted that the Abuja City Gate remains the city’s most iconic landmark and an enduring symbol of Nigeria’s hospitality, unity and aspirations.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Dr. Peer Lubasch, reaffirmed the company’s enduring commitment to Nigeria’s development, stressing that Julius Berger has remained a trusted infrastructure partner to the nation for more than six decades.

“For over 60 years, Julius Berger has been a proud partner in Nigeria’s growth. We do not just build structures; we build spaces that inspire communities,” Lubasch said.

He recalled that Julius Berger constructed the original Abuja City Gate in 1991 during the administration of former military President Ibrahim Babangida to commemorate the historic relocation of Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja.

According to him, the monument has since evolved into one of the country’s most recognizable national symbols, welcoming millions of residents, visitors and dignitaries entering the Federal Capital Territory.

Lubasch said returning to modernize the landmark was both a privilege and a responsibility, noting that the company’s objective was to preserve the monument’s historical significance while transforming it into a contemporary public space for future generations.

“Our goal was simple: preserve its proud history while upgrading it into a modern space for the future,” he said.

The successful completion of the project further reinforces Julius Berger’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost engineering and construction companies, while restoring the Abuja City Gate as a fitting symbol of a modern capital city and a renewed national identity.