Federal Capital Territory sees development boost under Wike

Abuja, Nigeria — As Nigeria intensifies its focus on urban renewal, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has emerged as a prominent symbol of national transformation. Leading this resurgence is Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, who now serves as Minister of the FCT under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Wike’s appointment in August 2023 sparked intense debate across political circles. While supporters hailed it as a strategic move to inject energy and efficiency into Abuja’s development agenda, critics condemned it as a display of political opportunism. A long-time member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Wike was accused of betraying party loyalty and undermining democratic norms by supporting Tinubu—then the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC)—over his party’s flagbearer, Atiku Abubakar, in the 2023 presidential election. However, Wike is widely recognized for his assertive leadership style and results-driven approach.

Wike is a politician who commands respect across party lines

During a lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, described Wike as “one politician that must be studied” in the context of Nigerian politics.

When Wike was the Governor of Rivers State, former vice president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo named him ‘Mr Projects’ after inspecting the various projects executed by the governor such as hundreds of kilometres of roads, bridges, flyovers, schools, and hospitals.

Similarly, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State and NNPP presidential candidate in 2023, commended Wike for his integrity and boldness. “Without putting on a red cap, you are a member of Kwankwasiyya anytime,” Kwankwaso remarked, adding, “In Kano, many people respect you. Those who underestimate you do so at their peril.”

Kwankwaso made the statement in November 2022 during a courtesy visit to Rivers State, where he inaugurated internal roads in Emohua Local Government Area.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has lauded Nyesom Wike, describing him as both a “miracle worker” and “a man of peace.” Speaking at Wike’s birthday book launch in Port Harcourt, Akpabio commended his remarkable achievements as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), particularly in infrastructure development. He stated, “No one in their right senses would sustain a quarrel with Wike… His contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape are indelible.”

Wike’s achievements as FCT Minister over two years

Wike’s leadership style is defined by proactive decision-making, rapid infrastructure delivery, and a strong sense of accountability. His direct, hands-on approach is rare in Nigerian public administration but has proven highly effective. He is widely acknowledged for launching projects without delay, regularly conducting on-site inspections, and often delivering results ahead of schedule.

According to Mr. Gabriel, a resident of Gwagwalada, Abuja, “In less than two years, Wike has reshaped how the capital functions, delivering visible improvements in infrastructure, public services, and administrative transparency.” He added that rather than blaming his predecessors or waiting for federal allocations, Wike has adopted a “start now, adjust later” mentality.

According to a recent report by Punch, Minister Nyesom Wike has overseen the construction of no fewer than 150 kilometres of roads across the Federal Capital Territory’s (FCT) satellite towns between 2024 and 2025. Business Day Newspaper also highlighted several key achievements under Wike’s leadership during his first two years as FCT Minister.

Major projects include Arterial Road N16, which connects Maitama and Katampe districts; the 16-kilometer OSEX II service carriageway linking Apo and Wasa; and Arterial Road N5, extending from Lifecamp Junction to Ring Road III. Other significant developments encompass the renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC) and the execution of the Greater Abuja Water Project.

Additional infrastructure upgrades feature newly constructed bus terminals in Kugbo and Mabushi, improvements to the Inner Northern Expressway from Idu to Kubwa, and the N20 Flyover along Onnex Kubwa Road. Road access has also been enhanced in areas such as Giri District, Kwali, and Bwari—projects scheduled for commissioning over a 19-day period,

President Tinubu also launched the Southern Parkway (renamed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way), the rehabilitated Abuja Metro Line, and associated access roads and parking facilities. In addition, the President inaugurated the commercial operations of the Abuja Light Rail, multiple arterial roads in the Central Area, and infrastructure developments in both the Guzape and Diplomatic districts.

The administration resurfaced 189 roads spanning 57 kilometers within the city center and completed the long-abandoned Vice President’s official residence, inaugurated at a cost of ₦21 billion. The FCT Minister’s official residence in Life Camp also received a major facelift.

Wike’s influence extended well beyond the city center into the satellite towns. With strong backing from the Presidency and the Minister of State, Dr. Mariyam Mahmoud, several strategic road projects were initiated across all six Area Councils, as documented by BusinessDay newspaper.

Notable among these interventions is the 9-kilometer Paikon Kore–Ibwa road in Gwagwalada, the 7.2-kilometer Gaba–Tokulo road in Bwari, and the 11-kilometer Yangoji–Sukuku–Ebo road in Kwali. In addition, temporary access roads were constructed for Saburi 1 and 2 communities within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), improving connectivity and easing local transportation challenges.

Security in the FCT has markedly improved. Upon assuming office, Wike addressed rising crime—including abductions and “one-chance” robberies—by engaging with key stakeholders and enhancing law enforcement mobility. The administration supplied 100 motorcycles for rural patrols and distributed 50 communication-equipped operational vehicles, contributing to a safer environment across the territory.

Engaging the Diaspora

Wike has emphasized the importance of global partnerships and diaspora engagement. His administration has hosted town halls and investment forums aimed at making Abuja a global, investor-friendly city.

However, when New Daily Prime asked whether there are dedicated cultural or tourism programs to attract diaspora families, a government spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, responded: “To be honest, I am not aware of any direct plan to create tourism attractions. However, ideas are coming in from Nigerians in the diaspora, and they are being considered.” This government has shown a willingness to listen to ideas from the diaspora.

A Political Force with Lasting Influence

Nyesom Wike’s influence extends beyond Abuja. His high-profile defection from the PDP’s mainstream during the 2023 presidential elections, and his leadership of the G5 Governors, played a pivotal role in President Tinubu’s election

But Wike’s assertive style has not been without criticism. In his home state of Rivers, political unrest continues amid a standoff between Wike and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, suggesting Wike is still an active force in state politics.

Some see him as a forceful figure unwilling to let go of power, while others regard him as a necessary disruptor of Nigeria’s slow and often inefficient bureaucracy. His style may divide opinion, but few can argue with the results

As President Tinubu builds his legacy of national development, Wike’s work in the Federal Capital Territory stands out clearly. His reforms have brought real and visible changes. It is still uncertain if this pace will continue, but one thing is clear: Abuja is moving forward—and so is Nyesom Wike.