THE Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has lashed out at critics of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as “politically expired” individuals who have failed to acknowledge visible progress under the current government.
Wike made the comments today during the flag-off and commissioning of several road projects in the Ushafa-Bwari axis of Abuja.
Addressing the gathering, he accused long-time political figures—whom he said have shifted allegiance across multiple political parties since 1999—of being blind to the developmental strides being made across the country.
“Let those who lack vision, who are politically expired, and who have jumped across over ten political parties since 1999, come and see what is being done,”
Wike stated. “Mr. President is working, and yet some say nothing is happening. Must we visit their houses before they acknowledge the work being done? We will not do that.”
The commissioning ceremony was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Tinubu.
The projects include the dualisation and upgrade of the War College/Army checkpoint road, as well as other adjoining routes in the area.
Commending the contractors and FCT project coordinators for their delivery, Wike reiterated his no-nonsense leadership style and expectations of hard work and accountability from those in public office.
“Working with me is not a walk in the park. If you can survive working with me, you can work anywhere,” he said. “Public service is not for personal gain or publicity. It is a call to serve, and you must prove your capacity.”
The former Rivers State governor also hailed President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their direct engagement with underserved communities in the FCT, noting that this level of visibility from Nigeria’s top leadership is unprecedented.
“This is the first time in our history that a sitting President and Vice President are physically visiting satellite towns to interact with the people. It speaks volumes about Mr. President’s commitment to inclusive governance,” Wike remarked.
He added that the newly inaugurated road infrastructure is part of broader efforts to extend development to neglected areas of the capital territory.
Wike’s comments come amid continued political debates over the Tinubu administration’s performance.
While opposition voices raise concerns about governance, the minister maintains that visible achievements are underway and only those stuck in outdated political mindsets fail to see them.