Tinubu Urges Wike to Ignore Naysayers, Focus on FCT Transformation

Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a transformational leader and urged him to ignore detractors as he continues to deliver infrastructural renewal in the nation’s capital. The President made this statement on Tuesday during the inauguration of the newly refurbished International Conference Centre in Abuja, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.

The refurbished facility, a key symbol of Nigeria’s commitment to international engagement and national pride, marks another milestone in the government’s drive to modernize infrastructure under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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“Ignore Bystanders, Keep Working,” Tinubu Tells Wike

During his address at the inauguration ceremony, Tinubu commended Wike’s zeal, discipline, and results-oriented approach to urban development. In a pointed remark directed at political critics and opposition voices, the President said:

“Don’t pay attention to busybodies and the bystanders, and whatever they say. Continue with your good work. You are a transformational leader. You have the vision, foresight, and determination to succeed.”

Tinubu’s endorsement of Wike comes at a time when the FCT Minister, a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has faced scrutiny for aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) administration. The President’s strong words of support were a clear message: performance and loyalty to the national interest take precedence over political affiliations.

Renewed Hope Agenda: Infrastructure at the Core

The President emphasized that infrastructure remains central to Nigeria’s progress. He said that the administration’s investment in projects like the conference centre reflects a broader strategy to rebuild and revitalize core sectors, including:

• Transportation
• Healthcare
• Education
• Energy
• Urban development

Tinubu said:

“We are determined to renew the infrastructural and other key sectors of this country because we understand that modern infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving economy in an inclusive and progressive society.”

He described the newly renovated centre as a hub for continental diplomacy, global cooperation, and regional trade. “It reflects our Nigerian first principle—a commitment to excellence, to diplomacy, and to the quality that defines us as a people,” he added.

No Free Rides: Tinubu Supports Pay-for-Use Policy

In a light-hearted but firm comment, Tinubu threw his weight behind Wike’s earlier statement that the use of the renovated halls will not be free of charge.

“You must obey what the landlord says. You want to use this place, you gonna pay for it,” Tinubu quipped, reinforcing the message that public infrastructure must be maintained sustainably.

This position aligns with Wike’s recent stance on revenue generation and accountability in public service. Under his leadership, the FCT has seen a push for reforms that improve fiscal discipline and promote development-driven budgeting.

Dignitaries Present at the Inauguration

The event was attended by top government functionaries including:

• Senate President Godswill Akpabio
• Minister of Finance and Economy, Wale Edun
• Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi
• Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu

Wike’s presence in the APC-led federal cabinet remains a point of political intrigue. Despite being a leading figure in the PDP and former two-term governor of Rivers State, his appointment as FCT Minister in August 2023 under the APC administration reflects Tinubu’s broader strategy of building a government based on competence and influence, rather than party loyalty alone.

Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), further symbolizes this bipartisan approach, having joined the cabinet in October 2024.

Wike’s Role in Abuja’s Transformation

Since assuming office, Wike has championed multiple infrastructure projects in the FCT, earning both commendation and criticism for his hands-on leadership style. Under his watch, several roads, public buildings, and administrative facilities have undergone renovation, signaling a renewed momentum for urban development.

His ability to work across party lines and deliver tangible results has been a cornerstone of Tinubu’s defence of his inclusion in the cabinet. Tuesday’s event and the President’s warm acknowledgment seem to solidify Wike’s standing as one of the administration’s top-performing ministers.

Tinubu’s remarks also served as a reminder that Nigeria’s development must be prioritized over political rivalry. By backing Wike and his pay-for-use policy for the International Conference Centre, the President has signalled that his government is focused on sustainability, fairness, and tangible results.

With Nigeria preparing for more international engagements, the newly christened Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre stands not only as a symbol of modernization but also of unity in service to the nation.