Ile-Ife: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government in its efforts to transform the country for the benefit of all. Wike made this appeal during his 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture titled, ‘The Nigeria of our Dreams,’ delivered at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun, on Thursday. He emphasized that no leader, irrespective of their capabilities, can succeed without the cooperation and support of the citizens.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike urged Nigerians to abandon years of cynicism, indifference, and hopelessness and to embrace a new era ushered in by Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He stressed the importance of robust cooperation between leadership and followership, citing examples such as South Africa under Mandela and Dubai, where progress was achieved through synergy.
Wike also encouraged Nigerians to reject the negative narrative that the country cannot change for the better, asserting that with the right leadership, transformation is achievable. He highlighted that change stems from the conviction of a determined populace, not solely from the top.
The minister outlined his vision for Nigeria as a nation where merit prevails over mediocrity, justice is prevalent, and every child, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or social background, can live with dignity. He emphasized the need for leaders to act as custodians of public trust and for institutions to be more powerful than individuals.
Wike stressed the importance of rekindling Nigeria’s vision and values, urging citizens to see themselves as architects of the country’s destiny rather than victims of its history. He highlighted the necessity of rebuilding trust between the government and the governed and across ethnic and religious lines.
To achieve meaningful progress, Wike called on Nigerians to rediscover the dignity of labor, truth, and unity. He affirmed that the country’s redemption lies in the hands of ordinary citizens who live with integrity, speak truth to power, and nurture hope.
Wike concluded by stating that Nigeria’s dream is not dead but simply dormant, waiting for those courageous enough to revive it.
