MEDIA PARLEY: Wike Addresses Key Development Issues in FCT

Published by Sola Akingboye, 18 April 2025

During a media parley on Friday, April 18, 2025, the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike addressed critical development issues facing the nation’s capital. He provided updates on ongoing projects and outlined strategies for improving healthcare, land management, sanitation, and transportation within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The Minister spoke about the significant strides in infrastructure development across the FCT, affirming the tangible progress being made and the positive reactions from residents.

“The difference is clear,” he stated emphatically, noting that FCT residents are amazed at the accelerated development taking place throughout the territory. “People are talking, saying, ‘You mean this is possible within a short time of less than two years?’ We were here for eight years, and comparatively, little happened. We have not even reached two years, and look at what has already been achieved. Imagine what will happen in four years.”

Wike highlighted the happiness among the populace, sharing personal experiences. “When I go out, I see that people are happy. I recently visited Kwali on the road to Lokoja – A2 to Pai. The enthusiastic reception I received was remarkable. Similarly, the progress from Pai to Gomani is evident for all to see. In Bwari, the Gaba/Tokulo road is another testament to our commitment to reaching rural areas. People are genuinely amazed that the government is focusing on these communities; it has never happened before. So, yes, people are happy.”

Regarding the ongoing renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), the Minister addressed recent concerns over costs, clarifying that the investment reflects the enhanced quality of work being delivered. “The cost is a direct result of the improved quality we are insisting upon,” he explained, emphasizing the choice of construction giant Julius Berger Plc. “They are not cheap, but their standards are exceptional. By this May, I invite you to visit the International Conference Centre and witness the transformation firsthand. As Nigerians, you will be proud of what has been accomplished.”

On hospital projects, including those in Utako, Gwagwalada, and Kubwa, the Minister acknowledged challenges posed by existing litigation. He stressed the complexities of hospital construction, emphasizing the need for integrated planning and execution to ensure the completion and operational readiness of these facilities to enhance healthcare delivery in the FCT.

Wike also addressed recent land reforms, including the regularization of Area Council land titles. He reiterated the Supreme Court’s ruling that all land within the FCT is under the jurisdiction of the FCT Administration. He emphasized the government’s commitment to regularizing existing allocations to provide landowners with Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).

“The Supreme Court has ruled that all land belongs to the FCT; therefore, there is no such thing as Area Council land. We do not wish to cancel all allocations. Instead, let’s regularize so that you can have your C of O,” he said. He also urged prompt payment of fees and development of allocated lands to prevent speculation and ensure efficient land utilization.

The Minister announced that the FCT Administration will proceed with the development of the Maitama II District and called on all land allottees in the FCT who have yet to pay the required fees to do so, reiterating that land in Abuja is not free.

Regarding the review of the Abuja master plan, Wike called for patience, stating, “The Abuja master plan is designed to keep Abuja as it was intended.”

He emphasized the administration’s commitment to adhering to the master plan while addressing illegal developments, citing the example of Kpaduma in Asokoro, where actions are being taken to remove obstructions to road construction. The Minister affirmed that he will demolish any illegal structure that contradicts the Abuja master plan.

On city sanitation, the Minister called for greater public responsibility and tax compliance. He highlighted the high cost of waste management and urged residents to pay their sanitation fees. He also requested the media’s assistance in educating the public about the necessity of tax payments.

In terms of public transportation in the FCT and the issue of illegal motor parks, the Minister disclosed that the three bus terminal projects initiated by the administration are nearing completion. Once operational, he said the administration would enforce regulations to reduce illegal parking and improve traffic flow. “By the grace of God, we are almost done with the three bus terminals. We will be able to designate specific loading and dropping points.”
During a discussion on politics, the Honourable Minister stated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is fundamentally unprepared for the 2027 general elections. He highlighted internal conflicts, impunity, and a lack of genuine commitment to opposition politics as key factors contributing to the party’s current issues.

The Minister also pointed out that the Governors Forum, while influential, is merely a pressure group and does not have the authority to make pronouncements on zoning or alter the functions of the National Working Committee (NWC).

He expressed concern over the lack of effective opposition from PDP governors, questioning their commitment to holding the ruling party accountable. The Minister emphasized that for any party aspiring to lead the opposition, genuine sacrifice and strong leadership are essential qualities that he believes are currently lacking within the PDP. “To say you want to lead the opposition party is not enough. You must be willing to sacrifice many things,” he stated.

The Minister warned that the internal challenges facing the PDP might lead him to withdraw his support for the party in the upcoming Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He said, “If the PDP does not put its house in order, I will not support them in the Area Council election.”

Regarding the political crisis in Rivers State, the Minister firmly defended President Tinubu’s emergency declaration, stating that it prevented the state from descending into chaos and facilitated the restoration of funding for local governments. He praised the President’s intervention as being in the best interest of the state.

The Minister urged the leaders and elders of Rivers State to move beyond public statements and take genuine steps to resolve the political crisis, stressing the importance of allowing democratic structures, particularly the State House of Assembly, to function constitutionally.