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Tag: Wike

  • Wikestitution: A Wike blueprint for young Nigerian leaders

    Wikestitution: A Wike blueprint for young Nigerian leaders

    By Dauda U. Adamu

    This article is divided into two major sections: the first focuses on Wike and his accolades, while the second addresses what young Nigerians can learn from his leadership styles. I have realized that Nigerians often overlook the positive contributions of their political leaders, focusing instead on their shortcomings. This tendency can have a discouraging effect on those who strive to make a positive impact. Therefore, I have chosen to adopt a different approach in this article.

    All attempts by Arise TV to ridicule Wike culminated when Reuben Abatti asked President Tinubu about sacking his ministers, specifically mentioning Nyesom Wike during the president’s maiden media chat. However, this moment unexpectedly elevated and dignified Wike before the very eyes and ears of Reuben Abatti, much to my excitement. Witnessing this clip allowed me to sleep very peacefully. 

    The primary reason for writing this article about Wike is to encourage him to continue serving the common people and to empower him to confront the greedy elites who exploit the masses through land grabbing, fraudulent schemes like “Park and Pay,” C of O crimes, and other exploitative practices. Beyond my observations of his actions and words, I was inspired to write this article by the joy I witnessed in the faces of the residents of the FCT.

    I have chosen to identify with the Wike style of leadership, regardless of his political affiliation or personal fortunes. Whether he is in power or out of power, whether he is popular or unpopular, his legacy will endure. Wike, a unifying force, demonstrating that collaboration can yield positive outcomes. The wonders of Wike’s leadership will never cease to amaze.

    Suppose you suffer from poor infrastructure, inadequate budgeting, and weak administrative governance, I would metaphorically recommend a dose of ‘Wike’ – two times in the morning, two in the afternoon, and two at night. Wike is institution personalized and the term I developed for this is ‘Wikestitution.’ Etymologically, the term is a portmanteau derived from the combination of ‘Wike’ and ‘institution. In countries like Nigeria, where institutional weaknesses and corruption often hinder development, the system of ‘Wikestitution’ becomes relevant for discussion.

    ‘Wikestitution’ can be defined as a leadership style characterized by a strong emphasis on individual initiative and a people-centric approach. This style embodies key qualities such as intelligence, open-mindedness, strong will, fearlessness, proactiveness, sound financial management, and the ability to learn from past mistakes. Nyesom Wike exemplifies these qualities through his leadership.

    Wike is known for his simplicity, firmness, intelligence, hard work, commitment to quality administration, open-mindedness, sensitivity to diversity, loyalty to the people, and boundless energy. While certain individuals may disagree with his specific policies or approaches, it is crucial to acknowledge his significant contributions to the Nigerian leadership landscape, extending beyond his work in Rivers State. Those who overlook these contributions may lack the data, time, or interest to objectively observe his work firsthand, whether through media reports or personal observation.

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    Therefore, when analyzing protests directed at individuals like Wike, it is essential to critically examine the underlying motivations. These protests may not necessarily be a direct criticism of the individual, but rather a rejection of the ‘Wikestitution’ approach – the application of personal ability and a genuine love for the people to address issues like land grabbing and political betrayal that often plague governance.

    I am concerned about how susceptible intelligent Nigerians are to manipulation by entities such as gossip-driven news content creators, self-serving politicians, and financially motivated activists who exploit the media to express their emotional sentiments rather than engage in constructive dialogue.

     President Tinubu has implemented several forward-thinking actions and policies for Nigeria, including removing fuel subsidies, increasing local government autonomy, increasing foreign reserves, and tax reforms, and appointing Bar. Nyensome Wike as the minster of the FCT. Although the removal of fuel subsidies came with hardship, the president gave the governors billions of naira and trucks of rice each to cushion the effects, but many did not hear about it. Tax reform is crucial at this juncture. Nigerians must now decide whether to take control of our nation’s destiny or become reliant on external factors such as China, the IMF, or the World Bank. This pivotal decision hinges on our choice between self-reliance through robust taxation or continued dependence on external borrowing.

     All Nigerians, regardless of their region, religion, tribe, or political affiliation, must unite to support the President’s success. Our nation’s success is inextricably linked to the success of its leadership. If the President fails, the entire nation, particularly the most vulnerable members of society, will suffer the consequences. I am actively contributing to this effort by reaching out to rural populations through local radio stations.

    This article is about Mr. President’s forward-thinking decision to appoint Wike as the FCT Minister. This may disappoint many, but what you are about to read is positive things about Wike. I understand that not everyone will agree with my assessment of Wike, and I am aware that this may have future implications for me from those who prefer a different narrative. However, I have chosen to take this risk. This is not driven by political or financial motives.

    When you search for ‘Wike’ or ‘FCT Minister’ on YouTube, the results primarily consist of videos showcasing the Minister’s project flag-off and commissioning ceremonies. Even YouTube, through these search results, seems to endorse the titles given to the Minister, such as ‘Wike is Working’ and ‘Mr. Project.’ Ultimately, Wike’s greatest joy stems from witnessing the happiness of the people he serves. 

    Before this, Mr. President described Wike as a man who provided purposeful leadership in a time of trial. Hon Member Abuja South Abdulrahman described Wike as “Wike is working; Wike is balancing.” I want to add one ‘MBATH ‘, meaning, Wike is ‘Making Bola Ahmed Tinubu Happy.’ The chairman of Bwari Area Council, Dr. John, refers to Wike as the “embodiment of the Renewed Hope Agenda.’ The Senate president, Godwill Akpabio, once called Wike ‘Governor Emeritus.’

    I agree with one of the speakers during the Wike 60th birthday lecture that “followership has to be able to galvanize leadership to action.” I therefore chose to write and celebrate Wike as my way of galvanizing Wike not into action but into ‘further’ actions. When you see hardworking people, stand by them no matter the cost. I do not mind losing anything because I chose to celebrate Wike today, whom I have never met.

    During his 60th birthday lecture in Port Harcourt, Wike received great accolades from friends and associates. The FCT Minister of State mentioned that she wishes the Minister a long life so she can continue to learn from him. I agreed with one of the speakers who said, Wike’s ‘heart is in his work, and his work is in his heart.’ As chairman of the occasion for the 60th birthday of Nyesom Wike, OCJ Okocha, described Wike as a ‘superlative performer,’ while Senate President Godswill Akpabio refers to Wike’s activities as the ‘Wike magic.’ The Abaji Chairman once referred to Wike as a source of inspiration. His coming as the FCT minister was described as the ‘Man with an eagle-like coming’ – always leaving a mark.

    Okocha made the most exciting and realistic comment about Wike which every person would love to receive: ‘There is nothing good in his hand that he cannot turn into success.’ Okocha further cited a conversation he had with an Okrika woman who said to him about Wike that if she were by the waterside with many boats and inquired about their sailors, she would be ready to enter the one they say is piloted by Wike even if she did not know its destination and mission because she believes the named sailor knows where he is heading to and the mission of the journey.

    Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, during the same occasion of Wike’s 60th birthday lecture, says “In Nigeria where leadership is often defined as rhetoric rather than results”, Wike has distinguished himself as, “a beacon of pragmatic action intertwined with visionary foresight.” He describes Wike as “one of most Nigerian courageous, innovative, focused, performance-driven-visionary leaders” and the “cornerstone of infrastructure development.”

     Okocha further describes Wike as someone whom many do not understand, while those who cannot perform like him become envious. He emphasizes Wike’s passion for ‘pooling up the weak,’ highlighting his overwhelming generosity and remarkable toughness. Wike, Okocha asserts, is a detribalized Nigerian who believes in exploring innovative solutions to overcome challenges.

    The Minister of Justice of the Federation describes Wike as “Mr. Project Plus Plus Plus.” He says that whether you like him or not, Wike is a performer and a crusader of finished projects at the Federal Executive Council, and a lover of taste. Wike makes us have hope. Dr. Kanu Agabi, SAN, a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federal Government, described Wike as a man who “thinks big, who plans big, and who executes his big plans.” Agabi once stated that it is men like Wike who give people hope. He was very hopeful in Wike and thanked him for the good things he would do going into the future. Even with that, Agabi maintained that Wike cannot be thanked enough. He went further to describe Wike as someone with a vision and who is decisive.

    The Indigenous people of the FCT, who have long suffered from neglect and marginalization, have seen a new dawn under Tinubu (president) and Wike (FCT Minister) administrations. Wike was presented with the indigene letter of Kwali Area Council and given the Indigenous name “Shengasa” – meaning “heaven shares opportunity.” Wike is considered a gift to the FCT by God. The kind of institutional system that Wike’s style of leadership represents is what I term “Wikestitution.” I write today to help youth learn from this leadership style.

    Wike/Wikestitution: lessons for the Nigerian Youths.

    A key element of the ‘Wike magic’ in addressing the FCT’s abandoned project syndrome involves a significant shift in budgetary allocation. This entails increasing capital expenditure from 30% to 70% of the budget, simultaneously reducing recurrent spending from 70% to 30%. If people enjoy smoother commutes on good roads in Abuja today, it’s partly due to the positive impact of a revised budgetary allocation. Furthermore, this approach emphasizes linking projects directly to Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and conducting frequent site visits to monitor progress.

    As of January 19th, 2025, less than two years after taking office, Minister Wike has already signed over 7000 Certificates of Occupancy for landowners in the FCT, a remarkable achievement considering that previous administrations issued a comparable number over thirteen years. This demonstrates that the ‘Wike’s working’ accolade extends beyond capital projects and encompasses efficient administrative duties. Nigerian youth and future leaders must learn from this.

    Criminals do not thrive in environments where Wike is in power. He firmly believes that a true leader must be deeply connected to their constituents. Even while serving as Minister of Education under former President Goodluck Jonathan and residing in the FCT, he visited Rivers State weekly to maintain close ties with his people.

    Wike is renowned for his exceptional teamwork. To fulfill President Tinubu’s vision of operationalizing the Abuja Metro line, he effectively collaborated with the CBN, Ministry of Finance, and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, successfully securing $30 million to complete the project. This example serves as a powerful lesson for young people: the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving significant goals. What I want the youths to learn from this is the spirit of teamwork. For the Area Council Chairmen, Governor Wike frequently inquires, ‘In what areas can I provide support?’ This proactive approach has led to significant achievements.

    Wike effectively addressed the issue of land-grabbing by investigating the legitimacy of companies claiming to be real estate developers. Wike discovered that many of these companies were not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, confirming their illegal activities. It’s crucial to understand that some protests directed at the FCT administration may not necessarily be a reflection of dissatisfaction with Wike’s leadership, but rather a response to his efforts to curb illegal land-grabbing activities by these unregistered entities

    Unfortunately, Nigerians often fail to acknowledge the realities of the “underworld,” and political, religious, or tribal biases can easily sway public perception against individuals who truly act in our best interests. Nigerian youths should cultivate a critical thinking mindset and diligently investigate issues before forming opinions. Wike is not merely an office-bound politician; he is a hands-on leader who actively engages in project monitoring. His dedication to on-site inspections directly resulted in the award of the Kpai road contract.

    Wike’s principles include strict adherence to contract terms and building confidence in contractors by ensuring timely and complete payments. Wike effectively ended the ‘variation’ nightmare for contractors. He has zero tolerance for the word ‘variation’ from contractors.  Most of those with whom Wike has issues are not poor people. Think about it. Nigerian youths must understand that this is necessary if they truly want to serve the common people.

    Wike dislikes keeping people waiting and dislikes attending occasions late. Nigerian youths must learn to be punctual. Before Wike rose to prominence in Nigeria, Nigerian youths had been indoctrinated with the myth that truth-telling and politics were incompatible. Wike has shattered this myth, forcing the promoters of this falsehood to retreat. Wike boldly speaks his truth and continues to excel in the Nigerian political arena beyond those who merely pretend with their stances.

    Wike has provided a new paradigm for addressing protest in Nigeria: dialogue. We have been led to believe that protest or revolution is the only answer to Nigerian problems, but Wike and the Abuja youths have demystified this myth. Towards the October 5th, 2024 protest, the youths of Abuja approached Wike and informed him that they would not participate. Instead, they requested that he empower them. As a promise-keeper, Wike, with the generous approval of Mr. President, allocated N10 billion for the empowerment of the FCT youths. However, he included the caveat that employment programs must be practically utilized, rather than simply attending conferences. It is now left for the Abuja youths to prove they have what it takes to be empowered.

    Wike gets rid of the bad eggs that work against the interests of the people and the administration’s desire for people-oriented projects. Wike changed several directors of land for going against the people. He is always happy whenever he goes to the rural areas. He believes that leadership demands sacrifice and the ability to galvanize others. He describes himself as a realist.

    The only thing that reminds many rural dwellers in Nigeria of the government’s presence is one or two government employees living in their community. Wike changed this perspective and narrative. He introduced a system where rural dwellers are reminded of the existence of government not necessarily through a few staff in the communities whom they see riding their bikes or walking to work every day, but through projects.

    Wike’s “flag off” ceremonies serve a dual purpose: to ensure the reality of the road project and to verify the contractor’s capability by sending someone to inspect their equipment. He boycotts presumed conspirators. Wike believes that politics is a covenant between those elected and those who elected them. Accountability is the watchword. Wike believes that uncompleted projects will make people hate the government.

    Wike like dancing and singing but only on two occasions—after attaining a victory or accomplishing a job for the masses. So, if you want to see Wike dance, attend his Thanksgiving service or his project commission events and maybe political rallies.  Wike has fostered job creation in the FCT, including opportunities for YouTubers in Abuja. These content creators showcase the city’s beauty and generate income through monetized channels. May God bless you Wike and keep you be the power of His name! Amen!

    Dr. Dauda U. Adamu writes from USA

  • Wike’s intriguing politics

    Wike’s intriguing politics

    To his surge of supporters, former governor of Rivers State and now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Mr Nyesome Wike, has transformed into the status of deity. He is the object of their unending adulation and ululation. Among them, he is fast becoming the man who cannot be corrected because he is above mere mortals and thus can do no wrong. Alas! Wike knows more than anyone else the sheer ephemeral nature not just of power but of life itself. A leader who wants to succeed must beware of listening to the deceptive music of sycophants who desire nothing but to lure him to the cesspit of demystification and destruction. This is a factor that the incumbent governor of River State, Siminalai Fubara should also habitually keep in mind and meditate upon daily.

    On the other side, those who fervently support Governor Fubara detest his predecessor, Wike, with unmitigated passion and undisguised hatred. They do not see anything wrong with the governor turning so vehemently and venousmally against a mentor who not only sold his candidacy to the voting public but mobilized and deployed massive resources to ensure a little-known Fubara’s victory at the polls. Now that Fubara is in the governor’s seat, he has laid bare his fangs and set his claws like a feral beast waiting to pounce on any available prey. But it is a matter of moral integrity, character, loyalty and fidelity to truth. Of course, it can be argued that it was God who made Fubara governor of Rivers State. True, but God uses human beings to achieve his purposes on earth and in the case of Fubara, God’s tool was Wike and the governor must never forget that.

    It is difficult to understand how a man like Fubara who was a trusted aide to Wike and worked with him for eight years as governor, could so suddenly turn against a man who made him politically and helped build the political structure that enabled his victory to become Rivers State governor. Could he have been deceptive all along, hating his boss with all his might but disguising his true feelings in order to achieve his political objective? If so, Fubara should be Intelligent and wise enough to know that no matter which political party he gravitates towards in due course, he will not be trusted. His integrity will always be questioned as well as capacity for loyalty either to any person or group. Wike as it is now turning out to be, has little capacity to spot, recruit and motivate people of talent and ability to aid him add value to governance when he was governor of Rivers State.

    But then, despite his political astuteness and acumen, how could Wike have decided for and massively enhanced resources behind a Fubara who was his candidate for the governorship office in Rivers State? It is now obvious that if Fubara had any iota of loyalty to his then-boss, Wike, or any sense of commitment to the principles of truth and honesty, they were deceptive and only skin deep. But many of the Rivers State respected elders swarming around Fubara, singing his praises and denouncing Wike today are most likely to harbour some doubts within them about the character, constancy and dependability of Fubara.

    The lesson here is that rather than one person picking a candidate and imposing such an aspirant on the party, structured and institutionalized mechanisms must be put in place across parties to facilitate the emergence of candidates for elections in a competitive, transparent and credible process. But this also implies further that there must be a fundamental change in the way our political parties are funded and run. Rather than the current system whereby wealthy political entrepreneur’s fund and thus dominate the political parties, we should return to a new model where party members pay their dues through which the parties’ activities and obligations are funded.

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    Both Wike and Fubara have their respective faults in the ongoing political crisis but the governor in my view has the greatest responsibility to bend over backwards to cultivate his mentor and former boss. It is certainly not too late. Moreover, it is the well-being and progress of the people of Rivers State that must be paramount. The speed with which he moved against and sought to decapitate Wike politically is amazing and creates the impression of a ‘Machiavellian’ for whom  the end justifies the means no matter how base or immoral. But a lesson of history is that adopting a Machiavellian disposition to life can often be counterproductive or outrightly self-destructive.

    It was not until he stormed the venue of the PDP presidential election convention and very nearly got the ticket but for the ethnic sleight of hand that gave Alhaji Atiku Abubakar the PDP presidential flag, that I began to take a serious view of Wike. If Atiku had picked him as his running mate, would that not have brightened his chances in the last presidential election? Well, that question lies in the bosom of time. Wike is energetic, focused and productive. Both as governor of Rivers State and now Minister of the FCT, even WIKE’s most ardent adversaries would admit that he is a star performer and an aggressive goal-getter. But his failure with regard to the Rivers crisis is his penchant for intervening unnecessarily in the administration of Rivers under Fubara. Many see him as too brusque, harsh, dictatorial and overbearing. Even as it is important to let Wike know the need to curb these traits, his shortcomings cannot be an excuse for what is widely believed as Fubura’s betrayal of his former boss.

    The Scenario in Rivers is no exception. We have continued to witness ceaseless confrontations between governors and their successors since the inception of this dispensation in 1999 and across party lines. And in most cases, it is due to a struggle between former governors who seek to play the role of party leaders in their respective states and newly elected governors who seek to assume control of the party structure and assume the leadership of the party in the state. It was this conflict between the leadership of the party and that of the government machinery that led to the

    breaking down of the relationship between Chief Obafemi Awolowo as Leader of the party and Chief SLA as Premier of Western Nigeria that later degenerated into widespread riots and demonstrations in the region and later led the country to civil war with excruciating implications for millions of people on both sides of the battleground. And it was to avoid such a situation to recur in future that in the Second Republic from 1979, Awolowo insisted that the governor in each state controlled by the Unity Party of Nigeria must also be the leader of the party in the state.

    How he walks the tightrope of being a Minister on the platform of the APC and also a still influential member of the PDP is intriguing  and impressive. But we can only wait in bated breath as events unfold in the near future. President Tinubu tried in futility to reconcile the warring factions. Their mutually agreed positions were soon jettisoned and the contenders were back in the trenches. It is surely time for elders in Rivers State to close ranks and help bring these two eminent citizens of the state together.

    Meanwhile, we will continue to closely watch Wike’s intriguing dance steps on the often treacherous terrain of Nigerian politics.

  • Wike to Nigerians: don’t panic, Tinubu determined to lift country

    Wike to Nigerians: don’t panic, Tinubu determined to lift country

    • FCT minister, Ortom, others visit Makinde

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has urged Nigerians not to panic over the economic situation in the country.

    He said the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would take the country to a new height.

    The minister said the country has faced significant challenges in the past, stressing that it had become necessary to recognise the progress the Tinubu administration has made.

    Wike said this while addressing reporters yesterday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, after leading some members of the former G5 Governors’ Forum on a condolence visit to Governor Seyi Makinde on the death of his elder brother, Sunday Makinde.

    Those who accompanied the former Rivers State governor included former Governors Samuel Ortom (Benue) and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia).

    Others are: Senators Sandy Onor, Philip Aduda, Olaka Nwogu, Mao Ohuabunwa, and former House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Chibudom Nwuche.

    The visitors were received at the Ikolaba private residence of the governor.

    Wike, who said Nigerians were fond of forgetting things easily, recalled that the country was at the brink before the current administration came to power.

    The FCT minister said the policies introduced by the Tinubu administration were necessitated by the needs to change things for the good of the country.

    He said President Tinubu’s policies, even though were accompanied by temporary pain, would enable the country to achieve greater heights.

    Wike urged Nigerians to expect better things in the months ahead.

    He said: “I have always said that people should be patient. This country was something else a few years ago. You know, Nigerians always forget where we were and what efforts have been put in place.

    “As I speak to you, if you want the country to be remedied, you need to be patient. You need to give time. It’s not like a miracle thing.

    “The policies Mr. President is putting in place are policies that, yes, would have some effects. People would have to feel it. By the end of the day, are we going to achieve what we were supposed to achieve? Yes.

    “That is the current situation. So, for me, nobody should panic. Mr. President means well for the country and Nigerians should expect that better things will come.”

    The FCT minister told reporters why he and the other dignitaries were in Ibadan.

    Read Also: Wike, Ortom, others visit Makinde over brother’s death

    He said: “We came to pay a condolence visit to our friend and our brother, the governor of Oyo State. All of you know the relationship we have with him as a member of the G5 Governors’ Forum, who stood for equity and fairness in this country.

    “He lost his senior brother, who is also our own elder brother. What affects him affects all of us. The death of his elder brother was so touching to all of us because we know how close he was with his elder brother.”

  • Wike, Ortom, others visit Makinde over brother’s death

    Wike, Ortom, others visit Makinde over brother’s death

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, former Governor Samuel Ortom on Wednesday paid a condolence visit to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State Governor over the death of his elder brother, Sunday Makinde.

    They were received at the Ikolaba private residence of the governor.

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    Other dignitaries who accompanied the Minister include, Senators Sandy Onor, Philip Aduda, Olaka Nwogu, Mao Ohuabunwa, and Rt. Hon Chibudom Nwuche among others.

  • Wike kicks off FCT National Health Fellows recruitment 

    Wike kicks off FCT National Health Fellows recruitment 

    The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has kick-started the process of the recruitment of National Health Fellows with the inauguration of FCT National Health Fellows Selection Committee on Wednesday.

    The Minister said the development which aligns with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s efforts to recruit Health Fellows nationwide, underlines the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to the health outcomes of the residents of the capital territory.

    The inauguration marks a significant step in advancing Nigeria’s healthcare system by fostering a new generation of health leaders and ensuring better healthcare service delivery nationwide, the Minister noted.

    The Nation reports that in January 2025, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, announced that President Bola Tinubu had approved and established the National Health Fellows Programme. 

    This programme aims to engage qualified young Nigerians across all 774 Local Government Areas under a sector-wide approach to oversee the construction of 8,800 new primary healthcare facilities in the coming years.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the committee in her office, the FCTA Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dolapo Fasawe, who represented the Minister, emphasized that the initiative is a strategic investment in human resources for health. 

    In a statement on Wednesday by Bola Ajao, the Special Adviser on Media to the Mandate Secretary HSES, Fasawe described it as part of the Human Capital Opportunity for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Programme of the Secretariat, designed to recruit talented youths and early-career professionals as vanguards of the health sector.

    Fasawe emphasized the Federal Government’s continued efforts to upgrade existing Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) and establish new ones across the country. 

    According to her, the initiative aligns with the commitment of the FCT Administration, under Wike’s leadership, to provide a strong and functional healthcare system for the people of Abuja.

    In addition, she noted that the newly recruited fellows would play a vital role in overseeing activities at these facilities, offering feedback to the government, and performing other key tasks to enhance the nation’s healthcare.

    The Mandate Secretary, however, urged committee to be diligent, fair, and impartial in the selection process to ensure that only the most qualified candidates are chosen. 

    She emphasised that the selected Fellows will undergo training in leadership, public health, financial management, problem-solving, and monitoring and evaluation, all aimed at achieving the objectives of the initiative.

    In her remarks, the FCT State Coordinator for World Health Organization (WHO) Kumshida Yakubu Balami, explained that the programme is housed under the Sector Wide Approach (SWAp) Secretariat in the Office of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. 

    Read Also: Wike shuts ‘hospital’ in FCT, arrests operator

    She outlined WHO-issued guidelines to ensure the programme’s smooth coordination, adding that one of the guidelines mandates the establishment of a seven-member National Health Fellows Selection Committee, a requirement that the FCT has fully complied with. 

    The committee is responsible for overseeing the entire selection process, screening candidates, and submitting a semi-final list to the SWAP Coordinator’s office. 

    Members of the committee include Dan Gadzama, Teresa Nwachukwu (SWAp desk officer) Aderonke Akande, including Maimuna Abdullahi and Danladi Chiya. 

    HSES Permanent Secretary, Baba Gana Adam, who also serves as the committee’s Vice Chairman, praised President Tinubu’s administration for its commitment to enhancing the health sector.  

    He also acknowledged the FCT Administration for its role in advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and tackling healthcare challenges in both the FCT and the country.

  • Wike shuts ‘hospital’ in FCT, arrests operator

    Wike shuts ‘hospital’ in FCT, arrests operator

    An unregistered clinic, Dada’s Clinic and Maternity, operating in Kapwa, Gaube Community, Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has been shutdown by the Private Health Establishments Registration and Monitoring Committee (PHERMC).

    FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, announced zero tolerance for illegal health facilities in the FCT.

    According to his Senior Special Assistant (SSA), on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, a certain Mr. Sabiu, who introduced himself as the health worker managing Dada’s Clinic & Maternity was handed over to the police at the Kuje Police Station.

    Olayinka said: “On February 2, 2025, at approximately 15:32pm, a team led by the Director, Medical and Diagnostics Department, acting on the directives of the Mandate Secretary, Health and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, visited Kapwa, Gaube Community (Gaube Ward), Kuje Area Council to investigate allegations against Dada’s Clinic & Maternity Ltd. The facility was reported to be operating without registration and conducting medical procedures in a rented apartment unfit for healthcare services, under the guise of a Medical Outreach.

    “Preliminary findings indicated that a community elder tragically passed away following a hernia operation performed at the facility. Additionally, multiple reports emerged of patients who barely survived procedures and required emergency medical care elsewhere.

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    “Upon arrival, the team identified the facility, which was located along the main road leading to the community. The facility was in a dilapidated and unsanitary condition—an unpainted building with burglar-proof ironwork at the entrance, but lacking windows, doors, and basic amenities such as a reception area, nursing station, bathroom, or toilet. The structure had four rooms and a general area, including an unfinished extension in unacceptable sanitary condition.

    “A man identified as Mr. Sabiu introduced himself as the health worker managing the facility. At the time of the visit, three patients were on admission, including an elderly patient receiving intravenous infusion. Mr. Sabiu admitted that Dada’s Clinic & Maternity Ltd was not duly registered with the Private Health Establishments Registration and Monitoring Committee (PHERMC).

    “All patients in the facility were confirmed to be stable and were referred to Kuje General Hospital for proper medical care. Consequently, the facility was sealed, and Mr. Sabiu was handed over to the Kuje Police Station at approximately 18:00 hrs for further investigation”.

    He said Wike reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring safe and regulated healthcare services.

    Olayinka emphasized facility accreditation as a simple process, noting that and there was no excuse for operating illegally.

    He further stated that all unregistered health facilities will be sealed henceforth to protect residents from unsafe medical practices.

  • How Wike funded Bala Mohammed’s 2019 governorship election, by Dogara

    How Wike funded Bala Mohammed’s 2019 governorship election, by Dogara

    Former House of Representatives Speaker Yakubu Dogara yesterday reflected on how the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister,  Nyesom Wike, funded the 2019 election of Bauchi State Governor  Bala Mohammed.

    He rejected Mohammed’s description of Wike as a transactional politician and serial betrayer, saying that the governor turned around to bite the finger that fed him.

    Dogara recalled how Wike,  former governor of Rivers State, mandated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Dan Orbih, to assist him in his bid for governor.

    Dogara, a lawyer, said in a statement by his media aide, Turaki Hassan,  that the Bauchi governor  knelt down before Wike in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, to collect money for his election.

    Dogara and Wike have been at loggerheads with Mohammed over his comment that the FCT minister was working for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the next presidential election.

    Firing salvos at Wike,  who he accused of betrayal, the governor said he should resign as minister.

    But Wike fired back, describing Mohammed as a hypocrite who dumped his party, the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) for the PDP when he was offered a ministerial position.

    The feud between Wike and Mohammed is connected with the protracted crisis in Rivers, where the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum is taking sides with his successor, Siminalayi Fubara.

    Dogara recalled that Mohammed would not have become governor without Wike’s assista because his major opponent, Senator Abdul Ningi, controlled the party structure in the state.

    He also said that after Mohammed became the candidate, it became apparent that he lacked the financial resources to fund his campaign.

    The statement reads: “Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent outbursts against His Excellency, Nyeson Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, though not entirely surprising, have only served to expand the vistas of ingratitude and treachery based on what I know. 

    “For starters, need I remind Governor Bala Mohammed that in 2018 PDP gubernatorial primaries, when we were not too sure he will win because, his then major opponent, Senator  Abdul Ningi, was the one who constituted the state party structure and had a bosom friend as party chairman, it was Wike we turned  to for help.

    Read Also: Police probing 179 suspects laundering of N11b, says spokesman

    “I had called Wike to plead with him to help us in Bauchi without necessarily disclosing to him that it was Bala Mohammed that we wanted delivered. His response to me, was that are you sure you are in control of the process 100 percent? I said, I wasn’t too sure and he said to me leave it to me, I will help you sort it out.

    “To do it, Wike first of all made his bosom friend and close ally, Chief Dan Osi Orbih. the chairman of the panel for the primary and said I should discuss whatever I wanted with Chief Dan.

    “We got talking and on the eve of the primary  Chief Dan was in Benin city and we needed to get him to Bauchi for the assignment. It was to Wike that I turned to again and his response to me was, my brother, I have told you not to bother about this. Tell Chief Dan to come to meet me in Port Harcourt. I did just that and amazingly, Wike provided the private jet that flew Chief Dan to Bauchi and out of Bauchi for the assignment.

    “I can say without fear of any contradiction that Wike bore all expenses for the exercise. It is therefore, shocking that this so-called transactional character called Wike did not place any condition whatsoever for his support.

    “That is just the beginning of the story, I hate to tell, but I must. After the emergence of Bala Mohammed as the party flag bearer and having promised to sponsor all the party candidates if he gets the ticket, we were rudely awoken to the reality that Bala Mohammed had no money for his own campaigns, let alone for other candidates of the party. 

    “Initially, I thought it was some kind of a funny joke, but as time went, I realised to my utter bewilderment that it was true. It turned out Bala Mohammed had lied to us about his financial capacity. 

    “So, we had a meeting at my then residence at Wuse 2 Abuja to help raise money and we thought since Bala Mohammed was one time Minister for nearly six years, he must have built enough goodwill we could harness if we organised a fundraiser for him.

    “A committee was put in place and we spent N20 million to organize the fundraiser at the then Lady Kwai Hall, Sheraton Hotels, Abuja.

    Before then, I had asked  Bala Mohammed to give me a list of some of the people he  had helped while he held sway as Minister for FCT.

    “He obliged me with the list and after calling just four people on the list that I know so well, what they said to me jolted me and I reserve that for some other day. But suffice to say that I knew the fundraiser will be a flop. So, I was already thinking of alternatives.

    “As predicted, we had the fundraiser and to cut the long story short, all we raised from the fundraiser was a paltry N48 million and If you deduct  the N20 million invested in organising it, that leaves you with a net of N28m. I have the records and our stakeholders are there to bear witness to this.

    “When it was obvious the masquerade will soon turn to a human being, I told our then two serving senators who are alive and can testify that the only option we had was to go to a friend and brother, then Governor Wike, for assistance.

    “We got tickets and flew to Port Harcourt with Bala Mohammed without informing Wike that we were coming with him.  On arrival, we were ushered into the Government House and asked to take our seats and wait for the governor who was still upstairs to join us shortly.

    “As soon as Wike walked down the stairs to join us and saw Bala Mohammed, his visage changed and I noticed he was cold to me for the very first time.  He asked us to join him at the dining room for breakfast, but excused me while those on my delegation waited. What happened next was nerve raking and humbling, I must say.

    “He was like, Speaker, why did you bring Bala to my house without even caring to find out what our mission was.  I said to him, I thought he is your friend since both of you served in the same cabinet under President Jonathan.

    “He said to me, ‘let me tell you what you don’t know. When we were ministers, Bala Mohammed allocated plots of land to all ministers, except me.’ He also recalled how he humiliated him when he went to see him in his office as a colleague minister, just to get an approval to increase the number of floors on a building he had in Abuja, not to beg for plot which he refused to allocate to him.

    “He said Bala Mohammed kept him in his waiting room for hours and later sneaked out of the office. That from that day, he made up his mind never to have anything to do with him again.

    “He added: ‘I wish, you had told me it’s Bala you were rooting for, but whatever you want, I will assist you guys because I don’t say no to a brother but I assure you, you will regret your decision if Bala Mohammed becomes governor.” The rest is history.

    “He said to me, let’s join them at the dining so that I can confront  him with these issues for you to know that I am not making things up. We joined them at the dinning and Wike confronted Bala with these issues in the open and in our very presence.

    “Bala admitted and pleaded for forgiveness, assuring that he is now a changed man. The two senators with me that day can confirm this to anyone who wants to establish the veracity of these narratives.

    “To cut the long story short, we passed the night at the Government House and the next morning, Wike called and directed that his cash assistance be handed over to me to pass to Bala. I said, Your Excellency, it’s better I call him so that he can collect the assistance himself, least he thinks you are still angry with him.

    “I sent for Bala and when he came, Wike’s aide handed over the package to him and he collected it while almost kissing the ground. Wike therefore, gave us the lifeline we needed to kick start Bala’s campaigns.

    “If Bala has forgotten how much we left with that day, I will remind him. Wike didn’t stop there. He gave us a private jet to ferry us back to Abuja. I must add that was not the only time Wike helped  Bala with resources and logistics.”

  • More infrastructural development coming in 2025 – Wike tells FCT residents

    More infrastructural development coming in 2025 – Wike tells FCT residents

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike has asked residents of the nation’s capital to expect more infrastructural development in the year 2025.   

    Wike disclosed this when he received the 2025 THISDAY Newspaper and Arise Television Minister of the Year award held during an elaborate ceremony in Lagos.

    Wike thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting him the opportunity to serve.

    He said: “I want to thank Mr. President for giving us the opportunity. If the President did not give us the opportunity, we will not be here to contribute the little we have contributed”.

    He also thanked the residents of the FCT saying: “I also want to thank all Nigerians particularly those who reside in Abuja, carrying on with their businesses. I want to tell them that this year, 2025 will see more development, more infrastructure and that is what is important for us. We have no time for excuses, time for excuses is done this is what the Renewed Hope Agenda is about.”

    Read Also: How Wike funded Bala Mohammed’s 2019 governorship election, by Yakubu Dogara

    According to a statement issued by the Director Press, Office of the FCT Minister, Anthony Ogunleye, speaking on the often-unfair criticisms he had received from Arise TV and THISDAY Newspaper, the Minister said the award indicated that they were not biased in their selection.

    While presenting the award to the FCT Minister, the Minister for Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris described the FCT Minister as one of the very best who is not just a colleague in the cabinet but also as someone who is very hard working and a loyal friend.

    The information minister continued: “and you can see from the array of people who have joined him to receive this award today. Many former governors, many Senators, many, many people, I cannot even count them and I am honored to be the one to present this award today”.

    Other nominees for the Minister of the Year award were; Mr. Wale Edun, Hon Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Barrister Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Tunji Olubunmi Ojo, Minister for Interior, and Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, Minister for health and Social Welfares. 

  • How Wike funded Bala Mohammed’s 2019 governorship election, by Yakubu Dogara

    How Wike funded Bala Mohammed’s 2019 governorship election, by Yakubu Dogara

    Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, revealed on Tuesday that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, was instrumental in funding the 2019 election campaign of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed.

    Responding to recent remarks by Mohammed, who accused Wike of being a transactional politician and a serial betrayer, Dogara recounted how Wike, then Rivers State Governor, directed Chief Dan Orbih to secure the PDP governorship ticket for Bala Mohammed and helped raise funds for his election campaign.

    In a statement personally signed by him, Dogara alleged that the Bauchi governor “practically knelt before Wike in Port Harcourt” to solicit financial assistance for his campaign.

    He said: “Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent outbursts against His Excellency Nyeson Wike, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory though not entirely surprising have only served to expand the vistas of ingratitude and treachery based on what I know.  

    “As I witness this gross injustice, the questions I ask myself, are: is my comfort more important than saying the truth and is my fear of conflict worth allowing harm to go unchallenged? 

    “I have learned enough over the years to know beyond reasonable doubt that in the face of situations like this, if I choose to prioritize my comfort, I will fail the victim and fail myself. This is because injustice itself is a festering wound, it only grow its worse when brushed aside.

    “As someone who knows so much because I was the provocateur of the events between the two that I will speak to, I consider my silence not just cowardice but complicity. Therefore, I am not afraid to stand alone or risk conflict. 

    “I should not be misunderstood to be defending Wike but simply stating the raw truth that I know and I really don’t give a damn if the truth makes Wike look good. I have learnt to say the truth as I enjoy my freedom from being a slave to human opinion. 

    “For starters, need I remind Governor Bala Mohammed that in 2018 PDP Gubernatorial primaries, when we were not too sure he will win because, his then major opponent, Senator  Abdul Ningi was the one who constituted the State party structure and had a bosom friend as Party chairman, it was Wike we turned  to for help. 

    “I had called Wike to plead with him to help us in Bauchi without necessarily disclosing to him that it was Bala Mohammed that we wanted delivered. His response to me, was that are you sure you are in control of the process 100 percent? I said, I wasn’t too sure and he said to me leave it to me, I will help you sort it out. 

    “To do it, Wike first of all made his bosom friend and close ally, Chief Dan Osi Orbih the Chairman of the Panel for the Primaries and said I should discuss whatever I wanted with Chief Dan. 

    “We got talking and on the eve of the Primaries, Chief Dan was in Benin city and we needed to get him to Bauchi for the assignment, it was to Wike that I turned to again and his response to me was, my brother, I have told you not to bother about this. Tell Chief Dan to come to meet me in Port Harcourt. I did just that and amazingly Wike provided the private jet that flew Chief Dan to Bauchi and out of Bauchi for the assignment. 

    “I can say without fear of any contradiction that Wike bore all expenses for the exercise. It’s therefore shocking that this so called transactional character called Wike did not place any condition whatsoever for his support.

    “That is just the beginning of the story, I hate to tell, but I must. After the emergence of Bala Mohammed as the party flag bearer and having promised to sponsor all the party candidates if he gets the ticket, we were rudely awoken to the reality that Bala Mohammed had no money for his own campaigns let alone for other candidates of the party.  

    “Initially, I thought it was some kind of a funny joke but as time went, I realized to my utter bewilderment that it was true. It turned out Bala Mohammed had lied to us about his financial capacity.  

    “So we had a meeting at my then residence at Wuse 2 Abuja to help raise money and we thought since Bala Mohammed was one time Minister for nearly 6 years, he must have built enough goodwill we could harness if we organised a fundraiser for him.

    “A committee was put in place and we spent N20 million to organize the fundraiser at the then Lady Kwai Hall, Sheraton Hotels, Abuja. 

    Before then, I had asked  Bala Mohammed to give me a list of some of the people he  had helped while he held sway as Minister for FCT.

    “He obliged me with the list and after calling just four people on the list that I know so well, what they said to me jolted me and I reserve that for some other day. But suffice to say that I knew the fundraiser will be a flop. Do, I was already thinking of alternatives. 

    “And as predicted, we had the fundraiser and to cut the long story short, all we raised from the fundraiser was a paltry N48 million and If you deduct  the N20 million invested in organising it, that leaves you with a net of N28m. I have the records and our stakeholders are there to bear witness to this. 

    “When it was obvious the masquerade will soon turn to a human being, I told our then two serving Senators who are alive and can testify that the only option we had was to go to a friend and brother, then Governor Wike for assistance. 

    “We got tickets and flew to Port Harcourt with Bala Mohammed without informing Wike that we were coming with him.  On arrival, we were ushered into the Government house and asked to take our seats and wait for the Governor who was still upstairs to join us shortly. 

    “As soon as Wike walked down the stairs to join us and saw Bala Mohammed his visage changed and I noticed he was cold to me for the very first time.  He asked us to join him at the dining room for breakfast, but excused me while those on my delegation waited. What happened next was nerve raking and humbling, I must say!

    “He was like, Speaker why did you bring Bala to my house without even caring to find out what our mission was.  I said to him, I thought he is your friend since both of you served in the same cabinet under President Jonathan. 

    “He said to me let me tell you what you don’t know. When we were ministers, Bala Mohammed allocated plots of land to all Ministers except me. He also recalled how he humiliated him when he went to see him in his office as a colleague Minister just to get an approval to increase the number of floors on a building he had in Abuja, not to beg for plot which he refused to allocate to him. 

    “He said Bala Mohammed kept him in his waiting room for hours and later sneaked out of the office. That from that day, he made up his mind never to have anything to do with him again. 

    “He added, I wish, you had told me it’s Bala you were rooting for but whatever you want I will assist you guys because I don’t say no to a brother but I assure you, you will regret your decision if Bala Mohammed becomes Governor. The rest is history. 

    “He said to me let’s join them at the dining so that I can confront  him with these issues for you to know that I am not making things up. We joined them at the dinning and Wike confronted Bala with these issues in the open and in our very presence. 

    “Bala admitted and pleaded for forgiveness assuring that he is now a changed man. The two Senators with me that day can confirm this to anyone who wants to establish the veracity of these narratives.

    “To cut the long story short, we passed the night at the Government house and the next morning Wike called and directed that his cash assistance be handed over to me to pass to Bala. I said, your Excellency, it’s better I call him so that he can collect the assistance himself least he thinks you are still angry with him. 

    “I sent for Bala and when he came Wike’s aide handed over the package to him and he collected it while almost kissing the ground. Wike therefore gave us the lifeline we needed to kick start Bala’s campaigns. 

    “If Bala has forgotten how much we left with that day, I will remind him. Wike didn’t stopped there, he gave us a private jet to ferry us back to Abuja. And I must add that was not the only time Wike helped  Bala with resources and logistics. 

    “What is baffling is that the so called transactional Wike did not demand for anything in return nor place any condition for all that he did. Believe me this is not the end of the story but let’s leave it here.

    “With all these, my question to Bala is what happens to the golden adage that you don’t attempt to break the calabash from which you once sucked honey? For Bala, power is a poison and anyone who questions how he wields it, for that reason, is an eternal heretic that must be crushed at all cost. 

    “Every sane person knows that true freedom doesn’t insist on expressing itself to the harm of others especially those that stood by you in your time of desperate need. For it is not in vain that they say, “a friend in need is a friend indeed”. 

    “Unfortunately, for those of us who know Bala too well, there is no room for debate about whether he is a rogue or mere scoundrel, as much as there is no debate about his moral bankruptcy, rooted in a contempt for truth. 

    “His mental pathology reveals a man that harbours grand delusions to the extent that he would not recognize the truth, whether about his private or political life, if confronted by it in an identity parade. As someone who is false to his friends and neighbours, it is impossible for him to be true to the public. 

    “Between Wike and Bala, Bala should be told in unequivocal terms that it is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not. It is obvious that Bala is not near anything that he is projecting to the public. 

    “When Wike was his benefactor, he said he knew Wike had done better than him and referred to him as, “ someone who is courageous, focused and determined, a person qualified and competent to help salvage Nigeria”. His words not mine. 

    Read Also: Yakubu Dogara: From critic to advocate of change

    “Now that Wike cuts off the benefits, he is a dead wood, former friend and a “transactional politician”. As a known wimp, he believes that Wike is now on the robs and he is punching so hard so that he can appropriate the glory from whatever pyrrhic victory that may ensue. 

    “Is it not ludicrous for someone who is mostly disliked for no reason other than he is shady, to call someone transactional? Time will not permit me to list those Bala has betrayed which includes his known godfather and our father, Baba Waziri, Alhaji Bello Kirfi, Elder statesman and former minister under President Shehu Shagari in the second republic. 

    “Bala represents everything but decency which I said before that I doubted he will ever have. Those who thought I was too harsh including an ally of Wike who pleaded  with me not to talk about Bala again are increasingly noticing this. 

    “I am sure they are now convinced that we cannot continue to run a therapy session for a troubled pyromaniac nay reptilian brat like this who consistently seeks to elevate himself by putting others down and who inhales rather than think before he talks. 

    “After all, it was saint John Chrysostom who said, “we must not mind insulting men, if by respecting them we offend God”. 

  • Wikestitution: A Wike blueprint for young Nigerian leaders

    Wikestitution: A Wike blueprint for young Nigerian leaders

    By Dr. Dauda U. Adamu

    This article is divided into two major sections: the first focuses on Wike and his accolades, while the second addresses what young Nigerians can learn from his leadership styles. I have realized that Nigerians often overlook the positive contributions of their political leaders, focusing instead on their shortcomings. This tendency can have a discouraging effect on those who strive to make a positive impact. Therefore, I have chosen to adopt a different approach in this article.

    All attempts by Arise TV to ridicule Wike culminated when Reuben Abatti asked President Tinubu about sacking his ministers, specifically mentioning Nyesom Wike during the president’s maiden media chat. However, this moment unexpectedly elevated and dignified Wike before the very eyes and ears of Reuben Abatti, much to my excitement. Witnessing this clip allowed me to sleep very peacefully. 

    The primary reason for writing this article about Wike is to encourage him to continue serving the common people and to empower him to confront the greedy elites who exploit the masses through land grabbing, fraudulent schemes like “Park and Pay,” C of O crimes, and other exploitative practices. Beyond my observations of his actions and words, I was inspired to write this article by the joy I witnessed in the faces of the residents of the FCT.

    I have chosen to identify with the Wike style of leadership, regardless of his political affiliation or personal fortunes. Whether he is in power or out of power, whether he is popular or unpopular, his legacy will endure. Wike, a unifying force, demonstrating that collaboration can yield positive outcomes. The wonders of Wike’s leadership will never cease to amaze.

    Suppose you suffer from poor infrastructure, inadequate budgeting, and weak administrative governance, I would metaphorically recommend a dose of ‘Wike’ – two times in the morning, two in the afternoon, and two at night. Wike is institution personalized and the term I developed for this is ‘Wikestitution.’ Etymologically, the term is a portmanteau derived from the combination of ‘Wike’ and ‘institution. In countries like Nigeria, where institutional weaknesses and corruption often hinder development, the system of ‘Wikestitution’ becomes relevant for discussion.

    Read Also; How to unlock untapped potential in oil industry, by Tinubu

    ‘Wikestitution’ can be defined as a leadership style characterized by a strong emphasis on individual initiative and a people-centric approach. This style embodies key qualities such as intelligence, open-mindedness, strong will, fearlessness, proactiveness, sound financial management, and the ability to learn from past mistakes. Nyesom Wike exemplifies these qualities through his leadership.

    Wike is known for his simplicity, firmness, intelligence, hard work, commitment to quality administration, open-mindedness, sensitivity to diversity, loyalty to the people, and boundless energy. While certain individuals may disagree with his specific policies or approaches, it is crucial to acknowledge his significant contributions to the Nigerian leadership landscape, extending beyond his work in Rivers State. Those who overlook these contributions may lack the data, time, or interest to objectively observe his work firsthand, whether through media reports or personal observation.

    Therefore, when analyzing protests directed at individuals like Wike, it is essential to critically examine the underlying motivations. These protests may not necessarily be a direct criticism of the individual, but rather a rejection of the ‘Wikestitution’ approach – the application of personal ability and a genuine love for the people to address issues like land grabbing and political betrayal that often plague governance.

    I am concerned about how susceptible intelligent Nigerians are to manipulation by entities such as gossip-driven news content creators, self-serving politicians, and financially motivated activists who exploit the media to express their emotional sentiments rather than engage in constructive dialogue.

     President Tinubu has implemented several forward-thinking actions and policies for Nigeria, including removing fuel subsidies, increasing local government autonomy, increasing foreign reserves, and tax reforms, and appointing Bar. Nyensome Wike as the minster of the FCT. Although the removal of fuel subsidies came with hardship, the president gave the governors billions of naira and trucks of rice each to cushion the effects, but many did not hear about it. Tax reform is crucial at this juncture. Nigerians must now decide whether to take control of our nation’s destiny or become reliant on external factors such as China, the IMF, or the World Bank. This pivotal decision hinges on our choice between self-reliance through robust taxation or continued dependence on external borrowing.

     All Nigerians, regardless of their region, religion, tribe, or political affiliation, must unite to support the President’s success. Our nation’s success is inextricably linked to the success of its leadership. If the President fails, the entire nation, particularly the most vulnerable members of society, will suffer the consequences. I am actively contributing to this effort by reaching out to rural populations through local radio stations.

    This article is about Mr. President’s forward-thinking decision to appoint Wike as the FCT Minister. This may disappoint many, but what you are about to read is positive things about Wike. I understand that not everyone will agree with my assessment of Wike, and I am aware that this may have future implications for me from those who prefer a different narrative. However, I have chosen to take this risk. This is not driven by political or financial motives.

    When you search for ‘Wike’ or ‘FCT Minister’ on YouTube, the results primarily consist of videos showcasing the Minister’s project flag-off and commissioning ceremonies. Even YouTube, through these search results, seems to endorse the titles given to the Minister, such as ‘Wike is Working’ and ‘Mr. Project.’ Ultimately, Wike’s greatest joy stems from witnessing the happiness of the people he serves. 

    Before this, Mr. President described Wike as a man who provided purposeful leadership in a time of trial. Hon Member Abuja South Abdulrahman described Wike as “Wike is working; Wike is balancing.” I want to add one ‘MBATH ‘, meaning, Wike is ’Making Bola Ahmed Tinubu Happy.’ The chairman of Bwari Area Council, Dr. John, refers to Wike as the “embodiment of the Renewed Hope Agenda.’ The Senate president, Godwill Akpabio, once called Wike ‘Governor Emeritus.’

    I agree with one of the speakers during the Wike 60th birthday lecture that “followership has to be able to galvanize leadership to action.” I therefore chose to write and celebrate Wike as my way of galvanizing Wike not into action but into ‘further’ actions. When you see hardworking people, stand by them no matter the cost. I do not mind losing anything because I chose to celebrate Wike today, whom I have never met.

    During his 60th birthday lecture in Port Harcourt, Wike received great accolades from friends and associates. The FCT Minister of State mentioned that she wishes the Minister a long life so she can continue to learn from him. I agreed with one of the speakers who said, Wike’s ‘heart is in his work, and his work is in his heart.’ As chairman of the occasion for the 60th birthday of Nyesom Wike, OCJ Okocha, described Wike as a ‘superlative performer,’ while Senate President Godswill Akpabio refers to Wike’s activities as the ‘Wike magic.’ The Abaji Chairman once referred to Wike as a source of inspiration. His coming as the FCT minister was described as the ‘Man with an eagle-like coming’ – always leaving a mark.

    Okocha made the most exciting and realistic comment about Wike which every person would love to receive: ‘There is nothing good in his hand that he cannot turn into success.’ Okocha further cited a conversation he had with an Okrika woman who said to him about Wike that if she were by the waterside with many boats and inquired about their sailors, she would be ready to enter the one they say is piloted by Wike even if she did not know its destination and mission because she believes the named sailor knows where he is heading to and the mission of the journey.

    Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, during the same occasion of Wike’s 60th birthday lecture, says “In Nigeria where leadership is often defined as rhetoric rather than results”, Wike has distinguished himself as, “a beacon of pragmatic action intertwined with visionary foresight.” He describes Wike as “one of most Nigerian courageous, innovative, focused, performance-driven-visionary leaders” and the “cornerstone of infrastructure development.”

     Okocha further describes Wike as someone whom many do not understand, while those who cannot perform like him become envious. He emphasizes Wike’s passion for ‘pooling up the weak,’ highlighting his overwhelming generosity and remarkable toughness. Wike, Okocha asserts, is a detribalized Nigerian who believes in exploring innovative solutions to overcome challenges.

    The Minister of Justice of the Federation describes Wike as “Mr. Project Plus Plus Plus.” He says that whether you like him or not, Wike is a performer and a crusader of finished projects at the Federal Executive Council, and a lover of taste. Wike makes us have hope. Dr. Kanu Agabi, SAN, a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federal Government, described Wike as a man who “thinks big, who plans big, and who executes his big plans.” Agabi once stated that it is men like Wike who give people hope. He was very hopeful in Wike and thanked him for the good things he would do going into the future. Even with that, Agabi maintained that Wike cannot be thanked enough. He went further to describe Wike as someone with a vision and who is decisive.

    The Indigenous people of the FCT, who have long suffered from neglect and marginalization, have seen a new dawn under Tinubu (president) and Wike (FCT Minister) administrations. Wike was presented with the indigene letter of Kwali Area Council and given the Indigenous name “Shengasa” – meaning “heaven shares opportunity.” Wike is considered a gift to the FCT by God. The kind of institutional system that Wike’s style of leadership represents is what I term “Wikestitution.” I write today to help youth learn from this leadership style.

    Wike/Wikestitution: lessons for the Nigerian Youths

    A key element of the ‘Wike magic’ in addressing the FCT’s abandoned project syndrome involves a significant shift in budgetary allocation. This entails increasing capital expenditure from 30% to 70% of the budget, simultaneously reducing recurrent spending from 70% to 30%. If people enjoy smoother commutes on good roads in Abuja today, it’s partly due to the positive impact of a revised budgetary allocation. Furthermore, this approach emphasizes linking projects directly to Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and conducting frequent site visits to monitor progress.

    As of January 19th, 2025, less than two years after taking office, Minister Wike has already signed over 7000 Certificates of Occupancy for landowners in the FCT, a remarkable achievement considering that previous administrations issued a comparable number over thirteen years. This demonstrates that the ‘Wike’s working’ accolade extends beyond capital projects and encompasses efficient administrative duties. Nigerian youth and future leaders must learn from this.

    Criminals do not thrive in environments where Wike is in power. He firmly believes that a true leader must be deeply connected to their constituents. Even while serving as Minister of Education under former President Goodluck Jonathan and residing in the FCT, he visited Rivers State weekly to maintain close ties with his people.

    Wike is renowned for his exceptional teamwork. To fulfill President Tinubu’s vision of operationalizing the Abuja Metro line, he effectively collaborated with the CBN, Ministry of Finance, and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, successfully securing $30 million to complete the project. This example serves as a powerful lesson for young people: the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving significant goals. What I want the youths to learn from this is the spirit of teamwork. For the Area Council Chairmen, Governor Wike frequently inquires, ‘In what areas can I provide support?’ This proactive approach has led to significant achievements.

    Wike effectively addressed the issue of land-grabbing by investigating the legitimacy of companies claiming to be real estate developers. Wike discovered that many of these companies were not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, confirming their illegal activities. It’s crucial to understand that some protests directed at the FCT administration may not necessarily be a reflection of dissatisfaction with Wike’s leadership, but rather a response to his efforts to curb illegal land-grabbing activities by these unregistered entities

    Unfortunately, Nigerians often fail to acknowledge the realities of the “underworld,” and political, religious, or tribal biases can easily sway public perception against individuals who truly act in our best interests. Nigerian youths should cultivate a critical thinking mindset and diligently investigate issues before forming opinions. Wike is not merely an office-bound politician; he is a hands-on leader who actively engages in project monitoring. His dedication to on-site inspections directly resulted in the award of the Kpai road contract.

    Wike’s principles include strict adherence to contract terms and building confidence in contractors by ensuring timely and complete payments. Wike effectively ended the ‘variation’ nightmare for contractors. He has zero tolerance for the word ‘variation’ from contractors.  Most of those with whom Wike has issues are not poor people. Think about it. Nigerian youths must understand that this is necessary if they truly want to serve the common people.

    Wike dislikes keeping people waiting and dislikes attending occasions late. Nigerian youths must learn to be punctual. Before Wike rose to prominence in Nigeria, Nigerian youths had been indoctrinated with the myth that truth-telling and politics were incompatible. Wike has shattered this myth, forcing the promoters of this falsehood to retreat. Wike boldly speaks his truth and continues to excel in the Nigerian political arena beyond those who merely pretend with their stances.

    Wike has provided a new paradigm for addressing protest in Nigeria: dialogue. We have been led to believe that protest or revolution is the only answer to Nigerian problems, but Wike and the Abuja youths have demystified this myth. Towards the October 5th, 2024 protest, the youths of Abuja approached Wike and informed him that they would not participate. Instead, they requested that he empower them. As a promise-keeper, Wike, with the generous approval of Mr. President, allocated N10 billion for the empowerment of the FCT youths. However, he included the caveat that employment programs must be practically utilized, rather than simply attending conferences. It is now left for the Abuja youths to prove they have what it takes to be empowered.

    Wike gets rid of the bad eggs that work against the interests of the people and the administration’s desire for people-oriented projects. Wike changed several directors of land for going against the people. He is always happy whenever he goes to the rural areas. He believes that leadership demands sacrifice and the ability to galvanize others. He describes himself as a realist.

    The only thing that reminds many rural dwellers in Nigeria of the government’s presence is one or two government employees living in their community. Wike changed this perspective and narrative. He introduced a system where rural dwellers are reminded of the existence of government not necessarily through a few staff in the communities whom they see riding their bikes or walking to work every day, but through projects.

    Wike’s “flag off” ceremonies serve a dual purpose: to ensure the reality of the road project and to verify the contractor’s capability by sending someone to inspect their equipment. He boycotts presumed conspirators. Wike believes that politics is a covenant between those elected and those who elected them. Accountability is the watchword. Wike believes that uncompleted projects will make people hate the government.

    Wike like dancing and singing but only on two occasions—after attaining a victory or accomplishing a job for the masses. So, if you want to see Wike dance, attend his Thanksgiving service or his project commission events and maybe political rallies.  Wike has fostered job creation in the FCT, including opportunities for YouTubers in Abuja. These content creators showcase the city’s beauty and generate income through monetized channels. May God bless you Wike and keep you be the power of His name! Amen!

    Dr. Dauda U. Adamu writes from USA