Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared his unapologetic commitment to transformative governance, even if it means confronting powerful interests. Speaking during a media chat on Monday, Wike said he “takes joy in stepping on the toes of big men” to deliver results, insisting that his only accountability is to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people.

 

“I take joy in stepping on the toes of big men, and that is why we are getting results. I don’t care,” he stated, positioning his administration as a departure from the status quo. He dismissed excuses rooted in ethnicity, religion, or political connections, warning that impunity and disregard for due process will hinder development.

 

Wike announced that President Tinubu would commence the commissioning of completed projects in the FCT beginning Monday, June 9, 2025. The exercise, expected to last 19 days, will feature the President and top government officials, including the Vice President, Senate President, and Speaker of the House of Representatives. The event will kick off with the unveiling of the remodelled International Conference Centre, followed by other “impactful projects.”

 

He also revealed that new projects will be launched to mark the third year of President Tinubu’s administration.

 

Addressing concerns about the FCT’s financial structure, Wike clarified that all funds are housed in commercial banks rather than the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), enabling the FCT to borrow responsibly. He emphasized that borrowing is tied strictly to Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), and commended President Tinubu’s decision to exclude the FCT from the Treasury Single Account (TSA), describing it as a strategic move that averted financial chaos.

 

On project execution, Wike outlined a robust accountability framework. He stated that every project must meet approval thresholds and that he personally conducts on-site inspections to verify contractor claims. While some contracts predate his tenure, he said strict oversight remains his priority.

 

Wike also reiterated his hardline approach to revenue collection, especially ground rent. He disclosed that in just three days, he signed 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), with all beneficiaries expected to fulfill their annual obligations. He singled out prominent defaulters, including Bode George, asserting that no one is above the law.

 

Criticizing past administrations, Wike lamented that no ground rent was collected between 2010 and 2015 under former FCT Minister Bala Mohammed. He warned that such negligence undermines national development and dismissed fears that his tough stance might harm the ruling party politically.

 

“Those complaining are not poor people. The annual ground rent is ₦400,000. That is not beyond their capacity,” he said.

 

Emphasizing the role of infrastructure in attracting private investment, Wike stated that government must focus on building roads and basic amenities to stimulate economic growth. “Every government must provide infrastructure before investors will come,” he concluded.