President Bola Tinubu has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his outstanding performance since assuming office, describing him as a “good man” and a “performing minister.”
Tinubu made these remarks during his first presidential media chat with select senior journalists in Lagos on Monday night.
Responding to questions about controversies surrounding Wike’s governance style, including the demolition of illegal structures and allegations of land grabbing, Tinubu defended the minister’s actions.
He highlighted Wike’s commitment to enforcing compliance in the FCT, a trait he said many Nigerians lack.
“Nyesom Wike is a good man, he is a performing minister,” Tinubu stated. “Nigerians lack compliance, period! We don’t pay our ground rents on time. We see compliance as inconveniences. I doff my hat for him.”
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, was appointed FCT Minister on August 16, 2023, following his nomination and confirmation by the Nigerian Senate. During his Senate screening on July 31, 2023, Wike assured lawmakers that President Tinubu would not regret nominating him.
Since assuming office, Wike has implemented policies aimed at urban renewal and infrastructural development in the FCT.
While his actions have sparked debate, they have also drawn significant praise for their boldness and impact.