Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has explained why he considers President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a more effective leader than many of his political contemporaries, citing courage, decisiveness, and the ability to tackle difficult national challenges.
Speaking during an interview with journalists in Abuja, Wike said leadership requires the willingness to confront problems directly rather than merely identifying them. According to him, Tinubu has demonstrated that quality through major economic and governance reforms since assuming office.
On Amaechi and the ADC CoalitionWike described former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi as a political ally and former boss but said he made a strategic error by aligning with the coalition built around the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
According to the FCT minister, the coalition was structured in a way that ultimately favoured former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
He claimed that experienced politicians could easily identify the political dynamics behind the coalition and argued that the arrangement was never likely to produce a transparent contest for all aspirants involved.
Wike further stated that some politicians were persuaded to join the coalition in order to boost its credibility, adding that many participants failed to recognise the political calculations already in place.Comments on Peter ObiSpeaking on Labour Party figure Peter Obi, Wike questioned whether the former presidential candidate possesses the resilience needed to handle Nigeria’s complex challenges.
He argued that national leadership requires the ability to endure political pressure and difficult circumstances, insisting that governance is not suited for individuals seeking easy solutions.
Wike pointed to his own experience within the opposition party structure, noting that despite intense internal disputes, he remained within the party while many of his rivals eventually left.
Why He Supports TinubuThe minister said President Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidy reflects the kind of leadership Nigeria needs.
According to him, previous administrations recognised the economic burden created by subsidy payments but failed to take decisive action. He maintained that Tinubu’s willingness to implement the policy, despite public criticism and economic hardship, demonstrates political courage. Wike acknowledged that many Nigerians are experiencing hardship but argued that difficult reforms are sometimes necessary to achieve long-term economic stability.
He stated that true leadership involves not only identifying national problems but also making difficult decisions to solve them, regardless of political consequences.
FCT Projects and Development AgendaWike also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects across the Federal Capital Territory, saying the current administration is focused on delivering visible results both in Abuja city and surrounding satellite communities.
He disclosed that a new round of project commissioning would begin on June 8 and continue for 31 days, covering roads, water infrastructure, public facilities, and housing projects.
According to him, many of the projects were selected based on direct requests from residents and community leaders, particularly in rural and satellite areas where poor road networks had contributed to insecurity and limited access to farmlands.The minister said improved road infrastructure has already helped reduce security challenges in several communities while also boosting economic activities.
He maintained that government credibility is strengthened when promises are fulfilled, adding that the administration is committed to completing projects that directly impact the lives of residents.
Wike concluded that leadership should be judged by results and the ability to confront challenges, stressing that the reforms and projects being implemented today would ultimately benefit Nigerians in the future.
