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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his commitment to contributing his best toward the development of the territory and Nigeria at large within the context of available resources
Speaking on Friday in Abuja during the flag-off of the construction of the Collector Road C01 in the Institution and Research District, linking the Body of Benchers Complex to Nile and Baze Universities, Wike said governance is about steady progress, not perfection.
“Even if I stay 500 years as Minister, problems will continue to come up. I cannot solve all the problems, but within what we can do, within the time frame and resources available, we will do our best to give our people what they deserve,” Wike said.
He assured that the road project, which also serves the Nigerian Law School and nearby institutions, would be completed on schedule. “If there is one project that will be completed within the time frame, it is this particular one,” he stated.
Wike explained that the project was approved through emergency procurement following a request by the Body of Benchers during the last Call to Bar ceremony. “Mr. President approved it even though it wasn’t in the budget. He saw its importance not just for the Body of Benchers, but also for the institutions and citizens who use this corridor daily,” he said.
The Minister commended President Tinubu for his responsiveness and commitment to infrastructural renewal under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that his leadership has created an enabling environment for development. “Mr. President has never said he will solve all of Nigeria’s problems, but he is determined to put the country on the path of positive development. When he finishes, another person will continue from there,” Wike stated.
He further revealed that construction of the new FCT Fire Service headquarters was in progress and would be completed soon. “By the grace of God, before the end of the month, we will communicate to you that it has come on board. So, don’t have sleepless nights,” he assured.
Wike also disclosed that the FCT Administration would, on Monday, commence the construction of two 300-bed hostels one for male and one for female students at the Nigerian Law School, the first of its kind in the institution’s history. He added that ten bungalows being built for the Law School were nearing completion.
Commending the Body of Benchers for engaging the government responsibly, Wike urged Nigerians to follow their example. “Good citizens should call the attention of the government to problems, not rush to social media. What the Body of Benchers did was responsible, they made their request humbly, and today, we are here,” he said.
He also praised President Tinubu for approving supplementary funds for an annex building of the Body of Benchers after the National Assembly’s approval. “That’s how responsible engagement works through dialogue, not confrontation. If you like, go 50 million times to social media, what you didn’t get through the door, you won’t get through the window,” he said.
Wike, a Life Bencher, restated his determination to deliver quality infrastructure that benefits both public and private institutions in the FCT. “This road will serve not only the Body of Benchers but also thousands of students and residents. What is worth doing is worth doing well,” he said.