Wike says predecessors abandoned Abuja projects, unveils Wuye district infrastructure 16 years after

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has criticised previous administrations for neglecting key infrastructure projects in Abuja, accusing them of failing in their responsibilities to the capital.

Speaking during the commissioning of completed engineering infrastructure in the Wuye District on Tuesday, Wike challenged past leaders to present evidence that they had done more for the FCT than the current administration under President Bola Tinubu.

“I challenge anybody to name any administration since the creation of the FCT that has done more than what we are doing now,” Wike said. “If there is any, let them speak now or remain silent.”

Wike said many of the projects being inaugurated were awarded as far back as 2009 but were abandoned due to non-payment of contractors.

He credited President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for prioritising the completion of these projects.

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“This contract was awarded in 2009. That’s 16 years ago. Was Tinubu the President then? Yet it remained abandoned until now. We have changed the narrative,” he said.

Wike announced that the unveiling of completed projects would continue with a 20-day showcase of achievements in the education sector, to highlight the administration’s broader development efforts.

He listed some of the projects, including 12 new roads, solar-powered streetlights under the “Light Up Abuja” initiative, access roads to the Mabushi Bus Terminal, expanded water supply to satellite towns, and the construction of a 600-bed hostel for the Nigerian Law School in Bwari.

Mariya Mahmoud, FCT Minister of State, said the Wuye project reflects the administration’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that benefits residents.

“Every milestone is a promise kept. With roads dualised and abandoned sites completed, the FCT is working again,” she said.

Wike also pledged political support for candidates in the FCT who align with President Tinubu, hinting at major political shifts ahead.

“For those of you running for election and supporting the President, be assured of my support. If you are with Asiwaju, you have my backing,” he said.

He said the renewed efforts in the FCT demonstrate a focus on implementation and service delivery, contrasting it with what he described as inaction by previous administrations.

“This is leadership that is committed to delivering results. Let the opposition see that the FCT is working,” Wike said.