FCT Minister Nyesom Wike says it’s unrealistic to expect full transformation of Abuja sectors within two years.
He called for patience, noting that development is ongoing in education, health, transport, and infrastructure.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, says it is unrealistic to expect a complete transformation of all sectors in the FCT within just two years of his administration.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike responded to concerns about the state of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and transportation in the capital, calling for patience and a better understanding of how governance works.
“People want universities in every community, but no one asks about the quality,” Wike said. “We can’t just focus on quantity while neglecting standards. I would prefer to have just three universities with good quality than many that offer nothing meaningful.”
He stressed that development must be gradual and strategic. Referring to education and hospital upgrades, the minister explained that it was not feasible to equip every district with fully functioning general hospitals within two years.
“I don’t know why anybody should think that within two years, you’re going to have a general hospital in all the other houses. That’s just not possible,” he said.
On transport, Wike admitted the system in the FCT was disorganized but assured that efforts were underway to improve it. “We’re trying to see what we can do to put it in order, which we have started,” he added.
He emphasized that while progress may not yet be visible across all areas, no sector was being neglected. “This is just two years in office. It is not possible for you to turn around all the sectors. But that does not mean any sector should be neglected. And we’re not neglecting,” Wike stated.
The minister also stressed the need for a structured approach to governance, saying each phase of development must be planned and executed in order. “A government must be forward and targeted. From this period to this period, this is what we’re going to do in this area,” he said.
Responding to questions about the visibility of his mandate secretaries, Wike dismissed suggestions that they were inaccessible. “So they’re not satisfied with what I’m briefing them? You will not advise us how, in terms of public appearance, in terms of interviews,” he said.
He also defended his leadership style, stating that he closely supervises project execution and budget approvals. “You know me very well. I sit and I approve funds for you to utilize. And then you’re asking me if I supervise?” he said.
Wike noted that the administration is making strides in education, with several school rehabilitation projects completed and awaiting commissioning. However, he explained that such events are not always marked by elaborate ceremonies, unlike road projects.
