President Bola Tinubu has declared that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is finally living up to its vision as Nigeria’s capital, crediting the transformation to the leadership of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The President made the remarks at a special thanksgiving dinner held to celebrate the inauguration of 31 projects completed across the FCT within 28 days as part of activities marking the third anniversary of his administration.
Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu commended Wike, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, and the entire FCT Administration for translating the Renewed Hope Agenda into visible infrastructure projects.
According to the President, the rapid development witnessed across Abuja demonstrates that effective leadership is measured by tangible achievements rather than promises.
He stressed that the FCT belongs to all Nigerians and should continue to serve as a symbol of unity, progress, and shared prosperity.
“Leadership is not measured by how loudly one announces plans, but by how clearly the people can see the results of those plans,” Tinubu said.
He added that every road, bridge, and completed infrastructure project improves connectivity, creates opportunities, and strengthens national unity while reassuring citizens that government can deliver meaningful development.
The President’s commendation comes amid an ongoing infrastructure drive that has seen the commissioning of roads, bridges, healthcare facilities, water projects, judges’ quarters, and other critical projects across the six Area Councils and Abuja city centre.
Former FCT Minister and Special Adviser to the President on General Duties in the Office of the Vice President, Aliyu Modibbo, also praised Wike’s performance, describing him as one of the most impactful ministers to have overseen the FCT.
Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, Modibbo expressed confidence that Wike would continue beyond the current administration, saying four years would not be enough to complete the ongoing transformation.
In his response, Wike attributed the successes recorded in the FCT to President Tinubu’s unwavering support and key policy reforms, including the establishment of the FCT Civil Service Commission and the removal of the FCT Administration from the Treasury Single Account (TSA).
He recalled that when he assumed office in August 2023, he inherited a demoralised workforce with limited motivation.
According to him, the creation of the Civil Service Commission restored career progression for workers, allowing qualified civil servants to attain the positions of Permanent Secretary and Head of Service, thereby boosting morale and productivity.
Wike also explained that exiting the TSA enabled the FCT Administration to secure financing from commercial banks, accelerating the execution of major infrastructure projects.
The minister disclosed that the administration commissioned nine projects in its first year, 19 in its second year, and 31 projects during its third anniversary celebrations.
He revealed that more than 70 per cent of the completed projects had been abandoned by previous administrations before they were revived and completed by the current government.
According to Wike, the only major outstanding project is the Inner Southern Expressway (OSEX), which is still under construction.
The minister also pledged strong political support for President Tinubu from Rivers State ahead of future elections, expressing confidence that his political coalition would overcome opposition forces in the state.
Also speaking, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by House Majority Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, described Wike as the best-performing FCT minister to date.
He noted that Abuja has witnessed unprecedented infrastructural renewal under Wike’s leadership, significantly enhancing the image and functionality of Nigeria’s capital.
On behalf of the contractors, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr. Peer Lubasch, commended President Tinubu for prioritising infrastructure development and praised Wike for providing the leadership that has accelerated project delivery.
Lubasch said the pace of project commissioning reflects the administration’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure, adding that Julius Berger remains proud of its longstanding contribution to Abuja’s development.