By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), addressed a media parley on Friday, April 18, 2025, to discuss critical development issues facing the nation’s capital.
In a press statement from the Director Press, Office of the Minister, Anthony Ogunleye, the Minister provided updates on ongoing projects and outlined the administration’s strategies for improving key sectors.
On development progress, Minister Wike emphasized the tangible progress being made in infrastructure development across the FCT, noting the positive reactions from residents. “The difference is clear,” he stated, adding that FCT residents are amazed at the accelerated development underway. He highlighted specific projects, including: Gaba/Tokulo Road in Bwari; Pai to Gomani Road and;
Kwali to Lokoja road
Speaking on International Conference Centre renovation, the Minister addressed recent insinuations regarding the cost of the ongoing International Conference Centre (ICC) renovation, clarifying that the investment reflects the enhanced quality of work being delivered.
He emphasized the choice of construction giant, Julius Berger Plc, and invited the public to witness the transformation firsthand by May.
On hospital projects, Minister Wike acknowledged the challenges posed by existing litigation on ongoing hospital projects, including those in Utako, Gwagwalada, and Kubwa.
He highlighted the complexities of hospital construction and the administration’s commitment to completing the facilities.
Speaking on land reforms,
he reiterated the Supreme Court’s ruling that all land within the FCT falls under the FCT Administration.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to regularizing existing allocations to provide landowners with Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).
On other key issues, the Minister also addressed: City sanitation, by calling for greater public responsibility and tax compliance; Public transportation, by disclosing that three bus terminal projects would soon be completed; the PDP’s preparedness for 2027 elections, he asserts that the party is fundamentally unprepared due to internal strife and lack of commitment to opposition politics and; Rivers State political crisis, by defending President Tinubu’s emergency declaration and calling on leaders and elders to take genuine steps towards resolving the crisis
The Minister’s remarks underscore the administration’s commitment to transforming the FCT and addressing key challenges facing the nation’s capital.
FCT Minister Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (L) fielding questions from journalists during the Media Parley at his official residence in Life Camp on Friday.
