The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has commended the Dunamis International Gospel Centre for constructing a pedestrian bridge in Abuja, describing the project as an example of responsible leadership and partnership in community development.
Wike said religious organisations, private institutions and individuals had a responsibility to complement government efforts by investing in projects that directly improve people’s lives.
He stated this on Friday during the commissioning of the pedestrian bridge constructed by the church as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives in the FCT.
The minister said he attended the event to recognise the church for translating its religious teachings into practical service to humanity.
Commending the general overseer of the church, Paul Enenche, and his wife, Wike said the intervention demonstrated that religious institutions could contribute to societal development beyond their spiritual responsibilities.
“Watching the documentary and seeing what you have done, touching lives, not only with your soul, but talking about the welfare of other people, that is leadership,” he said.
Wike noted that undertaking such projects required sacrifices, particularly for organisations with other financial commitments, adding that the decision to commit resources to infrastructure that benefits the wider community reflected genuine leadership.
He said leadership should be measured by tangible achievements and the positive impact of decisions on the people rather than declarations of good intentions.
The minister also recalled the church’s previous engagements with the FCT Administration, noting that an application submitted in 2018 was brought to his attention when the church renewed its request in February 2026.
According to him, the approval was granted within a short period, demonstrating the administration’s willingness to support initiatives that promote public welfare.
Wike urged Nigerians to acknowledge government efforts where progress had been made while offering constructive criticism where necessary.
He stressed that public office holders must be prepared to account for their stewardship by presenting verifiable achievements rather than relying on political rhetoric or public relations.
He added that future generations would judge leaders by their actions and the impact of their decisions on society.
The minister also cautioned Nigerians against relying solely on social media narratives when assessing public office holders, urging them to consider their capacity, performance and actual contributions.
He assured the church of the FCT Administration’s readiness to support initiatives that promote public safety and community development, while indicating that the government would consider contributing 50 per cent towards an associated project.
Wike consequently urged other religious organisations, corporate bodies and individuals to emulate the church by investing in projects that address the needs of their communities.
Earlier, Enenche said love, which forms the foundation of the Christian faith, must be demonstrated through giving, selflessness and meaningful contributions to humanity.
He said people should be remembered for the problems they solved and the positive impact they made rather than the wealth they accumulated.
The cleric also urged political, religious and other leaders to recognise their responsibility to account for how they utilised the positions, resources and opportunities entrusted to them.
He maintained that the church’s responsibility extended beyond spiritual ministrations to practical interventions that improve people’s welfare and contribute to societal development.
