The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that it is unrealistic to expect a complete turnaround of the FCT’s infrastructure and services within just two years of his administration.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike addressed concerns about ongoing development challenges in sectors such as education, healthcare, and transportation. He called for a more realistic public expectation of timelines required for meaningful government interventions.
“You can’t expect every school, hospital, or road project to be completed within two years,” the minister said. “People want infrastructure in their communities, but rarely ask about the quality or sustainability of what’s being delivered.”
Wike criticised the prevailing demand for the proliferation of universities without a corresponding focus on quality, saying, “Everybody wants a university in their community, but nobody is talking about standards. I would prefer to have three high-quality universities than ten substandard ones.”
The minister noted that rehabilitation of hospitals in the FCT is ongoing, but warned against the assumption that fully equipped hospitals can be provided in all districts within a short timeframe. “That’s simply not possible,” he said.
On transport, he admitted the system in the FCT is currently disorganised but assured that steps are being taken to bring about order. “It’s chaotic, no doubt. But we’ve started work to fix it. People need to understand that change takes time.”
Wike also defended his leadership approach, stressing that his focus is on structured governance and strategic planning. “You need a clear roadmap period-by-period targets for each sector. That’s how a responsible government works.”
When asked about the visibility of his mandate secretaries and their public engagement, Wike dismissed criticisms, saying the media had no authority to dictate his communication style. “I brief the press myself. If you want to engage the secretaries, go to them directly,” he said.
He also pushed back against any suggestion of weak oversight. “I personally approve funds and supervise projects. So it’s unfair to imply I’m not involved in what’s going on,” he stated.
Wike revealed that the FCT administration will soon begin inaugurating completed school projects, noting that progress in the education sector is being made, even if not always marked by high-profile ceremonies. “I don’t believe in cutting ribbons just to impress people. The focus is on delivery, not drama,” he said.
The minister reiterated that while not every issue can be solved within two years, no sector is being ignored under his watch. “Every area is on the table. We’re working, but we need time,” he concluded.
