By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has commended Dunamis International Gospel Centre for building a pedestrian bridge along the busy Airport Road, Abuja.

Wike ‌‍⁠⁠‍⁠⁠‍‌‍‌‌‌‍‌‌‌gave the commendation in Abuja on Friday during the inauguration of the pedestrian bridge built at the Church headquarters, the 100,000-capacity Glory Dome, Abuja.

He described the project as an exemplary model of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

The minister revealed that while the Church applied for approval to construct the facility in 2018, the application was only brought to his attention in February 2026, leading to its swift approval within one month.

He described the approval as evidence of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to good governance, urging members of the Church to support government with proven capacity to respond to the needs of the people.

He said “government cannot do everything alone; there is nowhere in the world where government carries every burden. That is why we emphasise comprehensive social responsibility.”

To further encourage community-driven infrastructure, the minister announced that the FCT Administration (FCTA) would defray 50 per cent of the total cost incurred by the Church in constructing the bridge.

He commended the Senior Pastor of Dunamis, Dr Paul Enenche and his wife, Dr Becky Enenche, for demonstrating leadership and sacrificing Church resources to save lives and enhance human welfare rather than solely focusing on soul-winning.

The minister, however, decried the habitual refusal of many pedestrians to use constructed bridges, choosing instead to risk their lives crossing high-speed expressways.

He warned against continuous public criticism of government actions on social media when enforcement measures were deployed to maintain public order and safety.

Earlier, Enenche said the decision to construct the pedestrian bridge was borne out of concern over the frequent fatal accidents recorded along the Airport Road axis.

Enenche explained that “the Church plans to add modern aesthetic coverings, security lighting and transparent side-panels to the structure to protect users from weather elements and boost compliance.”

He urged public-spirited individuals and leaders to live for societal impact and keep eternity in view, emphasising that resources must be deployed for the collective good of humanity.

On her part, the Senator representing the FCT, Ireti Kingibe, commended the Church for backing its faith with compassionate action.

Kingibe described the ministry as “a beacon of light” and urged residents and leaders across the territory to unite in building a safer and peaceful capital. (NAN)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu