Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stated that numerous civil servants are dissatisfied with his leadership due to his refusal to fund expensive official trips and conferences. Instead, he prefers directing state resources toward essential infrastructure projects.
During a media briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, Wike explained that his administration has prioritized capital development, specifically road construction, over recurrent government expenses. He asserted that he is willing to endure unpopularity to avoid what he views as wasteful spending. Wike specifically criticized requests for costly foreign trips, such as international land administration conferences, suggesting that officials could learn more by studying domestic examples in cities like Lagos or Port Harcourt.
Since taking office, Wike has significantly adjusted the FCT budget. Previously, approximately 65 percent of the budget was consumed by recurrent costs, but under his direction, 70 percent is now dedicated to development projects. The minister argued that conferences are often utilized as a mechanism for the diversion of public funds. Despite acknowledging that his strict stance has strained his relationship with government employees, Wike maintains that his primary focus remains on delivering tangible projects that provide direct benefits to the residents of the FCT.
