…Hails Tinubu for Ending Governors’ Dependence on Bank Loans
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has mocked his political critics, saying many of those who once condemned him for aligning with President Bola Tinubu are now defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike stated this during the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road 1 to Ring Road 2 along Wassa Road in Abuja. His comment came barely a day after Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC.
“I have been watching on television and social media—those who accused me of destabilizing the PDP and working for APC—today, they are all in APC,” Wike said. “If it is true that I worked for APC, then they should praise me, not condemn me. It means I did a good job for them.”
Reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu, the minister said the president’s economic policies, especially the removal of fuel subsidy, had strengthened the financial independence of states and the FCT, ending years of dependence on bank loans to pay salaries and execute projects.
“I was a governor for eight years. I know what it meant to run around banks to borrow money for projects and salaries,” he said. “But today, under the decisive leadership of Mr. President, banks now run after states. Salaries are being paid, projects are ongoing, and no governor is talking about leaving debts for successors. That is visionary leadership.”
Wike credited the rapid infrastructural transformation in the nation’s capital to President Tinubu’s leadership style. “Whatever progress we are recording in the FCT is because of that direction from the top. Once you set the standard, everyone you appoint must follow suit,” he said.
He also assured Apo traders that their planned relocation remained on course, disclosing that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) had completed cost assessments for the provision of infrastructure at the new site.
Speaking on the OSEX project, Wike highlighted its significance in easing traffic congestion in the city. “Before the Apo–Wassa road was done, it took hours to enter the city. It was terrible. But gradually, we are bringing relief and happiness to the people of the FCT,” he said.
The minister commended FCT Area Council chairmen for working across party lines to support his administration, describing their cooperation as unprecedented.
Also present at the event was former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, whom Wike described as “a brother” committed to youth development in the capital.
In her remarks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a bold step toward easing traffic flow and stimulating economic activities. She praised President Tinubu for demonstrating that “progress is not only in policies but in tangible improvements in the lives of citizens,” and lauded Wike for turning the FCT into “a construction hub and a symbol of national renewal.”
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