BEST GOVERNOR OF THE MONTH

As of mid-2025, several ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s administration have been recognized for their outstanding performance. Among them, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stands out prominently.

NYESOM WIKE – MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY (FCT)

Appointed in August 2023, Nyesom Wike has been lauded for his transformative initiatives in Abuja, earning accolades from various analysts and stakeholders.

Key Achievements

Infrastructure Development: Wike has overseen extensive improvements to Abuja’s road network, completing several previously abandoned projects. Notably, he facilitated the completion of the Abuja light rail project within six months of assuming office.

Urban Planning Enforcement: He has taken decisive actions against land racketeering and unauthorized developments, emphasizing adherence to the city’s master plan. Landowners with undeveloped plots have been warned about potential revocation of their Certificates of Occupancy.

Public Transportation Overhaul: Recognizing the challenges posed by the proliferation of motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke) in the city, Wike has initiated plans to introduce mass transit buses, aiming to provide efficient and safer alternatives for commuters.

Administrative Reforms: He established the FCT Civil Service Commission to ensure structured career progression for civil servants, enhancing administrative efficiency.

Impact on Residents

Wike’s initiatives have significantly improved the quality of life in Abuja:

Enhanced Mobility: The completion of road projects and the light rail system has eased traffic congestion, facilitating smoother commutes.

Urban Aesthetics and Order: Strict enforcement of urban planning regulations has led to a more organized and visually appealing cityscape.

Improved Public Services: The introduction of mass transit options promises to offer residents reliable and affordable transportation.

Administrative Efficiency: The establishment of the Civil Service Commission is expected to boost morale and productivity among civil servants.

Given these accomplishments, Nyesom Wike has been described by some analysts as “arguably the best minister” in the current administration.

Infrastructure Development

Urban Projects

Road Rehabilitation: Over 300 roads have been resurfaced across districts like Maitama, Garki, and Utako, enhancing connectivity and reducing traffic congestion.

Major Constructions: Projects such as the Southern Parkway (now Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way), Wuye Bridge Interchange, and the Abuja Light Rail have been completed, improving transportation infrastructure.

Rural Development

Area Council Roads: Construction and rehabilitation of roads in all six Area Councils, including the 9km Paikon-Kore-Ibwa road in Gwagwalada and the 11.3km Yangoji road in Kwali, have enhanced rural accessibility.

Transportation Modernization

• Public Transit: Introduction of 80 new vehicles into the FCT transportation fleet and the construction of three modern bus terminals in Mabushi, Kugbo, and the Central Business District aim to streamline urban mobility and reduce “one-chance” crimes.

Security Enhancements

Equipment Provision: Distribution of 100 operational vehicles and 100 specialized motorcycles to security agencies and vigilante groups has bolstered security operations, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Community Policing: Establishment of community policing units and the installation of CCTV cameras in high-risk areas have improved surveillance and reduced crime rates.

Health and Education Initiatives

Healthcare: Rehabilitation of hospitals in Gwarimpa, Gwagwalada, and Utako, along with free antenatal care for pregnant women, have improved healthcare access.

Education: Reconstruction of 19 secondary schools and scholarships awarded to over 130,000 indigent students have revitalized the education sector.

Administrative Reforms

Civil Service Commission: Establishment of the FCT Civil Service Commission has enabled career progression for civil servants, with over 1,000 promotions reinforcing a culture of advancement.

Financial Autonomy: Securing the FCTA’s exit from the Treasury Single Account has allowed the administration to harness internally generated revenue for development projects.

Social Inclusion and Community Engagement

Traditional Institutions: Presentation of Staff of Office to four graded Chiefs in the FCT has resolved longstanding chieftaincy disputes, strengthening traditional governance structures.

Youth and Women Empowerment: Creation of new Secretariats for Women Affairs and Youth Development has addressed pressing concerns, promoting inclusivity. Minister Wike’s comprehensive approach to governance in the FCT has led to tangible improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education, and administrative efficiency, significantly enhancing the quality of life for Abuja’s residents.