As President Bola Tinubu marks two years in office, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says Abuja is ready to show the nation what good leadership and accountability can achieve—even under financial pressure.
Inspecting major infrastructure projects set for commissioning, Wike shouted in excitement: “Hey, hey, hey – heat! This is a buffalo job!” reacting to the quality of work done by contractors like Julius Berger and CGC, particularly on roads linking Gish Junction, Judges Quarters, Jah Lake, and the International Conference Centre.
“This administration made promises, and you can see for yourself—we’re fulfilling them. The quality is superb. Contractors have lived up to expectations,” he said.
Several infrastructure projects are lined up to be commissioned ahead of President Tinubu’s two-year anniversary on May 29, 2025. These include the near-complete N5 camp and other high-profile roadworks across the FCT. According to Wike, these efforts are part of the President’s commitment to developing infrastructure and improving living conditions in Abuja.
While the International Conference Centre was initially planned to be the first to be commissioned, the schedule may be adjusted due to some National Assembly members traveling for Hajj. The Gish-Jah axis may now take the lead.
Despite his praise for the quality of work, Wike did not shy away from confronting one of the biggest challenges his administration faces—residents failing to pay taxes and land rates.
“People want good roads, water, lights—but no one asks where the money is coming from. Abuja is not an oil-producing city. We depend on taxes,” Wike said.
He lamented that many elites who own houses in Abuja are quick to follow the law abroad but refuse to pay dues at home. “We’ve not increased rates in 30 years, yet people won’t pay. That can’t continue,” he warned, noting that over 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy (C of Os) have been signed recently, and those who benefit must be ready to give back by paying taxes.
On security, Wike corrected what he called “misleading reports” about a recent explosion in Abuja. He stressed that it was not a suicide bombing incident but a mishap involving stolen explosives.
“Let’s not scare residents. It wasn’t a suicide attack. Someone took explosives from a quarry without understanding the risk, and it exploded. We must avoid spreading fear,” he explained.
As the FCT prepares for the President’s anniversary, Wike says the city is ready to showcase the results of focused planning and hard work. But he warns that without public support—especially in terms of paying taxes—progress may be limited.
“If you pay your taxes, you’ll see a different FCT. This is what we’re trying to build, but we need everyone on board,” he concluded.
