The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to withhold 10% of statutory allocations to FCT Area Councils over their failure to implement the new national minimum wage for primary school teachers, a situation that has led to a protracted strike across the territory.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, the Minister expressed disappointment at the continued industrial action, describing it as an embarrassment and a disservice to schoolchildren in the nation’s capital. Wike noted that despite earlier engagements with Area Council Chairmen and directives for the release of funds to address the salary arrears, the councils failed to comply.
“I have limits; I cannot remove them because they are elected, but I have withheld 10 percent of their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and statutory allocation,” Wike stated firmly. He added that a dedicated committee would be established to ensure direct payments to affected teachers.
Addressing concerns over local government autonomy, the Minister maintained that the welfare of residents — especially children’s education — must come first.
“You want me to fold my arms while our children stay at home because you insist on local government autonomy? No! The funds were released, yet teachers are not paid. That’s unacceptable,” Wike declared.
Major Infrastructure Projects to Mark Tinubu’s Anniversary
The Minister also revealed plans to commemorate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second year in office with the inauguration of several infrastructure projects across the FCT. Wike listed roads in Ketti, Takushara, A2 to Pai, Ushafa, and War College as projects ready for commissioning in the coming weeks.
Significantly, the long-overdue renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC) is set for unveiling. Wike described the facility’s pre-renovation state as an “eyesore,” emphasizing that the FCT Administration has signed a maintenance contract with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, with costs covered by revenues from the now fully commercialized venue.
Water Supply and Security Measures for Satellite Towns
In line with directives from President Tinubu, the Minister announced a partnership with Chinese construction giant CGC to extend water supply to satellite towns including Bwari, Kubwa, and Karu. He assured that adequate funding had been provided in both national and statutory budgets, with a two-year delivery timeline.
On urban security, Wike disclosed the deployment of CCTV systems equipped with advanced security features to deter and address vandalism of public infrastructure, particularly streetlights. He added that procurement processes were underway to install streetlights on previously omitted road projects.
Addressing Land Management, Open Grazing, and Political Realignments
Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in land administration and warned against corrupt practices. Responding to concerns on recent defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Minister blamed internal party impunity and poor leadership for the crisis.
“Impunity, injustice, and selfish interests have weakened the PDP. Without sincerity and selflessness, the party’s problems will persist,” he said.
Praise for First Lady Oluremi Tinubu
On his relationship with Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Wike lauded her humility and personal commitment to national development. He recounted her direct interventions, including commendations for completed road projects and suggestions for improving Abuja’s City Gate.
“If you’re not close to people, you won’t know how humble and supportive they are. The First Lady is a different kind — thoughtful and genuinely interested in the progress of this administration,” Wike remarked.
Conclusion
With decisive action against non-compliant Area Councils, strategic infrastructure projects, and renewed partnerships for essential services, the FCT Minister’s latest policy direction underscores a bold, no-nonsense approach to governance in the Federal Capital Territory.
