President Bola Tinubu has praised the rapid transformation taking place in Nigeria’s capital, saying Abuja is experiencing remarkable progress under the leadership of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The President’s remarks came after the completion and inauguration of 31 projects across the territory within 28 days.
The projects, which include major roads, bridges and public infrastructure, have been described as one of the biggest achievements recorded in the FCT in recent years.
Speaking during a special thanksgiving dinner held in Abuja, Tinubu said the changes taking place in the nation’s capital prove that purposeful leadership can produce meaningful results. The President was represented at the event by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
According to Tinubu, the Abuja infrastructure projects reflect the government’s determination to improve the lives of Nigerians through practical development rather than promises.
He commended Wike and members of the FCT Administration for their commitment to delivering projects that directly impact residents.
Furthermore, the President said true leadership should always be judged by visible achievements.
He said leadership is not about making loud announcements but about producing results that people can easily see.
According to him:
“Leadership is not measured by how loudly one announces plans, but how clearly the people can see the results of the plans.”
Tinubu also described Abuja as a symbol of unity and national identity.
He noted that every completed project strengthens connections among Nigerians.
According to him:
“Every new road run here shortens somebody’s journey, every new bridge connects more than communities; it connects friendship, it connects love, it connects unity, and also connects opportunities for Nigerians.”
He added:
“Every completed project quietly tells Nigerians that the government can still work when vision meets determination.”
Meanwhile, former FCT Minister Aliyu Modibbo also praised Wike’s performance.
Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, Modibbo said the minister had performed beyond expectations.
Moreover, he expressed confidence that Wike could continue serving beyond the current administration.
According to him, four years may not be enough to complete the ongoing transformation across Abuja.
In his response, Wike recalled the situation he inherited after assuming office in August 2023.
He said many civil servants lacked motivation because career progression had become difficult.
However, he explained that reforms were introduced to improve staff welfare.
According to Wike, the establishment of the FCT Civil Service Commission created new opportunities for workers.
He said the commission now allows qualified officers to rise to the positions of Permanent Secretary and Head of Service.
Furthermore, he credited President Tinubu for approving policies that boosted workers’ morale.
He explained that motivated workers contributed greatly to the successful execution of projects.
The minister also highlighted the administration’s growing record of completed infrastructure.
He revealed that nine projects were inaugurated during Tinubu’s first year in office.
In addition, 19 projects were completed in the second year.
This year, however, the number increased to 31 completed projects.
According to Wike, another major factor behind the progress was the removal of the FCT from the Treasury Single Account.
He explained that the decision made it easier to secure funding for ongoing infrastructure development.
He also praised contractors for completing projects on schedule and maintaining high standards.
Moreover, he promised continued collaboration to improve Abuja even further.
Wike stated:
“Comparatively, what Tinubu has done and will continue to do in the FCT is unprecedented. Most of the projects we completed were not initiated by the current administration and 70 per cent of them were abandoned projects.”
He added:
“The only project that was not completed is the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX).”
Meanwhile, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas also commended the minister.
Represented by House Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere, Abbas described Wike as the best-performing FCT minister so far.
He said Abuja has witnessed significant physical transformation under the current administration.
Speaking on behalf of contractors, Julius Berger Managing Director Dr. Peer Lubasch applauded both Tinubu and Wike.
He praised the government’s commitment to infrastructure and national development.
According to him:
“We are proud that we have been an integral part of Abuja’s story from its formative years to the present day.”
Government officials insist the momentum will continue as more projects are completed to improve transportation, economic growth and the overall quality of life for residents.
