The National Assembly has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, for what it described as his “exceptional performance” in office.
This recognition came during Wike’s presentation of the proposed N1.78 trillion FCT Statutory Budget for the 2025 fiscal year before lawmakers.
Senator Ibrahim Bomai, Chairman of the Senate Committee on FCT, praised Wike’s remarkable impact within a short period, alongside the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud. Bomai highlighted the proposed budget as one of the most promising to date, especially the projected Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of N608 billion, stating it marks a significant leap in fiscal planning.
“This is the first time the FCT is aiming to generate about N1.7 trillion. It’s a solid move,” Bomai noted.
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) also applauded the dramatic transformation of Abuja under Wike’s leadership, comparing the capital’s evolving look to cities like Johannesburg and Cairo. He, however, urged the Minister to bolster efforts in enhancing security.
In a similar vein, Senator Mohammed Ndume (APC, Borno South) stated, “Anyone familiar with the FCT’s past knows the difference today. The credit is shared — Wike for execution, and the Senate for enabling the funding.” He pledged continued legislative support for Wike’s initiatives.
Senator Osita Ozunaso (APC, Imo West) commended the budget’s strategic structure, notably the N21 billion reduction in personnel costs and the prioritization of capital expenditure over recurrent spending.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) described Wike as one of the standout ministers under the current APC administration. He emphasized that the shift from excessive overhead costs to impactful infrastructure projects under Wike is laudable, especially his efforts to improve rural communities within the FCT — a strategic move to decongest the city by developing the outskirts.
Even Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT), known for her previous criticisms of Wike, acknowledged his tangible achievements, calling them “undeniable.”
At the House of Representatives, Chairman of the Committee on FCT, Hon. Muktar Betara, echoed the Senate’s sentiments, applauding the ongoing transformation of the capital city under Wike’s stewardship.
In his presentation, Wike appealed for the lawmakers’ approval of the N1.78 trillion budget, with N1.28 trillion (72.3%) allocated for capital projects and N494.1 billion (27.7%) for recurrent expenditures. He emphasized the importance of sustaining infrastructure development aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Lawmakers, across party lines, took turns to express their admiration for Wike’s dedication to delivering democratic dividends to residents of the FCT.
About The Author
