By Peter Omopo
Abuja, July 6, 2025 — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Sunday highlighted major reforms and infrastructure achievements under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing the transformation of the capital city as a testament to Tinubu’s vision and commitment to national development.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service held at St. James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja, Wike said the FCT had seen unprecedented changes under Tinubu’s directive, including the execution of 17 projects in just 16 days as part of activities marking the president’s second year in office.
“Nothing was moving in the nation’s capital before now. Today, residents are testifying to visible progress because there is a government determined to act,” Wike said.
According to the minister, Tinubu gave him a “matching order” to ensure Abuja reflected the image of a modern, world-class capital. “We’re not saying we have completely changed Abuja, but the foundations for real transformation have been laid,” he added.
Wike pointed to dilapidated infrastructure, especially roads, as a challenge the administration inherited. He assured residents that within the next year, the full impact of ongoing reforms would be evident. “We appeal to Nigerians to be patient and see what Abuja will become in the coming months,” he said.
He also addressed criticisms surrounding his appointment as FCT Minister, noting that some opposed him because he hailed from southern Nigeria. “It’s unfortunate, but President Tinubu stood his ground and chose those who would deliver results,” he said.
Wike praised Tinubu for instituting structural changes in the FCT civil service. These include the appointment of permanent secretaries from within the FCT civil service and the creation of a dedicated Head of Service role for the territory, currently held by a woman from the FCT.
He also credited Tinubu with removing the FCT Administration from the Treasury Single Account (TSA), a move he said has significantly improved access to funds and enabled quicker execution of development projects.
“We now have direct control over our finances, which has greatly enhanced project delivery,” Wike noted.
The service ended with the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Wike by the Vicar of St. James’ Church, Rev. Ben Idume, in recognition of his strides in infrastructure development.
In his remarks, Idume commended Wike for defying the odds and delivering tangible results as a southern Nigerian appointed to lead the FCT. He described Tinubu as a “visionary leader” who appointed Wike knowing he would perform.
“We are witnessing history. This is leadership in action,” Idume said.
