Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has urged Nigerians to set aside political differences and rally behind President Bola Tinubu's administration in its efforts to transform the country, particularly highlighting the impressive work being done in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under Minister Nyesom Wike.

Ortom made these remarks during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in Abuja alongside the FCT Minister. The former governor, who previously served as a minister under President Goodluck Jonathan and has been active in Nigerian politics since 1982, expressed that he has never witnessed such extensive infrastructural development in the FCT as is currently taking place under Wike's leadership.

"Mr. President alone cannot fix Nigeria. We need to join hands with him, irrespective of party affiliations. Let us put politics aside and support what is good," Ortom stated.

He added, "I've seen several Ministers of the FCT, but this is the first time I am witnessing monumental development in Abuja. I am very proud of what my friend and colleague, Nyesom Wike, is doing."

Commendation for Tinubu's Leadership

Ortom praised President Tinubu for prioritizing national interest over partisan politics by appointing Wike, a prominent opposition figure, to head the FCT Ministry.

"If Mr. President was a partisan leader, he wouldn't have appointed Wike, who is from the opposition. But he saw capacity, and that's leadership," Ortom remarked.

Transformation of Abuja

The former governor expressed admiration for the transformation occurring across Abuja, including major roadworks, construction of world-class bus terminals, and the introduction of a painted taxi system aimed at reorganizing the city's transport sector.

"I've seen Kugbo and Mabushi terminals—these are facilities we usually see abroad. To now see them in our own capital is something to celebrate," he said.

Ortom, who has been a resident of the FCT since 2008, revealed that the pace and scale of developments under Wike's administration have been so significant that he now needs a guide to navigate the city.

"With what I see today, I need a guide to move around. That's how much the city has changed in just one year," he concluded.