Tinubu reveals why he chose Wike as FCT minister

President Bola Tinubu has explained why he appointed Nyesom Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

He said Wike was chosen because of his ability to deliver results, especially in infrastructure and project execution.

Tinubu made the statement during the commissioning of the newly completed Federal Highway 105, which connects the Airport Expressway to Kuje Township in Abuja.

The event was part of activities marking his third year in office. He was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The President explained that the road project, first awarded in 2022, was abandoned for a long time. This caused serious problems for residents, including traffic jams, dust in the dry season, and flooding during the rainy season.

He said Wike was appointed because the government needed someone who could push stalled projects forward and deliver results quickly.

According to him, the road reflects his administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which aims to bring development to all parts of society, not just city centres.

Tinubu said the completed road will reduce travel time, improve transport, boost business activities, and help farmers move goods more easily. He also urged residents to pay taxes and protect public infrastructure so that more projects can be completed.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike described the project as very difficult to complete. He said it was initially awarded in 2022 at a cost of over ₦54 billion but was abandoned before his administration revived it.

He explained that after consultations with local leaders, the government decided to restart the project because of its importance to residents. He also said the road had previously become unsafe and was in poor condition.

Wike praised the contractor, Arab Contractors, for completing the work despite challenges.

He also thanked President Tinubu for supporting infrastructure development in satellite towns around Abuja.

He added that more projects, including the Kuje–Gwagwalada road, will be completed soon as part of ongoing development efforts in the FCT.