Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has challenged Nigerians to hold him accountable for the utilisation of public funds, insisting that his administration’s performance is evident across the territory.
Speaking during a media chat held April 4, 2026, at his official residence in Abuja, Wike declared: “Challenge me—what are we doing with your tax money?”
He stressed that governance should be assessed based on visible impact rather than political affiliations, noting that his administration is focused on delivering measurable results.
“It’s not about the party you belong to. It’s about what you can see. I don’t believe in 3D presentations—seeing is believing,” he said.
The minister disclosed that projects are ongoing across the six area councils of the FCT, adding that he maintains direct oversight of developments.
“As I sit here, I can tell you how many projects are ongoing in each of the area councils. I don’t need to call for files,” he stated.
Wike further revealed that the administration is set to inaugurate a series of infrastructure projects, particularly road networks connecting rural communities, describing the scale of work as unprecedented in the history of the FCT.
“What is happening now has never happened in the history of the FCT,” he said, noting that several abandoned projects have been revived and are nearing completion.
On funding, the minister explained that the FCT receives only one per cent of federal allocations, making internally generated revenue crucial to development efforts.
“People want infrastructure, but they don’t want to pay tax. It’s not easy. What we are doing is based on what we generate,” he said.
He also urged journalists to prioritise issues of national importance in their engagements, cautioning against what he described as trivial lines of questioning.
“Don’t ask me trivial questions. Ask questions that will help Nigeria,” he said.
Addressing security concerns, including the resurgence of “one-chance” robberies, Wike acknowledged recent incidents but maintained that significant progress has been made.
“You cannot say crime will not happen at all. What matters is reducing it and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice,” he noted, adding that security agencies have received sustained support.
He explained that security strategies are continually being reviewed to adapt to evolving threats, while emphasising that no society is entirely free of crime.
Wike also defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over criticisms surrounding insecurity, asserting that the President remains committed to addressing the challenge.
“He has taken security as a priority. Fighting terrorism is not easy anywhere in the world,” he said.
Reaffirming his approach to governance, the minister said he remains focused despite criticisms.
“If you are in this position, people will talk. What matters is staying focused and delivering results,” he added.
