In the heart of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), a wave of transformation is sweeping through, promising a brighter and more sustainable future for its residents. This remarkable change can be attributed to the visionary leadership and tireless efforts of His Excellency, Nyesome Wike, the current Minister of the FCT. Under his stewardship, Abuja is not only becoming a symbol of progress but also a model for sustainable development aligned with the 2030 Agenda. If all ministers were like Wike, Nigeria would undoubtedly be on a fast track to achieving its development goals.
Minister Wike’s approach to governance is pragmatic and results oriented. His tenure has been marked by the renovation and completion of key access roads to the city center, a development that has brought significant relief to FCT residents. Among these critical projects is the completion of the Independent Road, which now seamlessly connects the city center to the airport road, the Apo, Wuye and Area 3 link bridges, etc. This project has drastically reduced the stress and burden of accessing the city center, particularly during the morning rush hours.
One can hardly overstate the impact of this development. For many residents, the transformation is nothing short of miraculous. The once congested and poorly maintained roads that tested the patience and endurance of commuters have now become smooth and efficient passages. This achievement is a testament to Minister Wike’s commitment to infrastructure development and urban planning.
Personal stories from the residents of Abuja highlight the profound impact of these developments. Take, for instance, the experience of Mrs. Grace Olowu, a civil servant who resides in Lugbe and works at a government office in the city center. Every morning, Mrs. Olowu would brace herself for the arduous journey to her office, a trip that often took more than two hours due to traffic congestion and poor road conditions. However, with the completion of the Independent Road, her commute has been reduced to just 45 minutes. “It feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders,” she shares. “I can now spend more time with my family in the morning and arrive at work less stressed and more productive. Minister Wike has truly changed our lives for the better.”
Minister Wike’s commitment to infrastructural development is not only a relief for commuters but also a crucial step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the FCT. The renovation of key roads has improved accessibility and reduced travel time, contributing to economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents. This aligns with SDG 9, which focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.
Moreover, the improved road infrastructure has positive environmental implications. Reduced traffic congestion means lower carbon emissions, contributing to SDG 13, which calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. By prioritizing these projects, Minister Wike is setting a standard for integrating sustainable practices into urban development.
Minister Wike’s achievements in the FCT also serve as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that lie with other ministers in the Tinubu government. While Wike has set an exemplary standard, there is a pressing need for his peers to rise to the occasion and emulate his dedication and effectiveness. A comparative survey of ministerial contributions reveals a mixed bag of performance across different sectors. While some ministers have shown promise, others have lagged behind, resulting in uneven development across the nation. For instance, the Ministry of Education has made strides in improving literacy rates, yet it still grapples with inadequate infrastructure in rural areas. Similarly, the Ministry of Health has launched several health initiatives, but the persistent issues of underfunded hospitals and insufficient medical supplies continue to plague the sector.
Minister Wike’s achievements stand as a testament to what can be accomplished with the right leadership and vision. His ability to deliver tangible results in a relatively short period is a clarion call for other ministers to reevaluate their strategies and prioritize impactful projects. The citizens of Nigeria deserve a government that works cohesively towards national development, where every minister is as committed and effective as Wike.
As we celebrate the remarkable progress in the FCT, it is crucial to call on Minister Wike to continue his commendable work and to leverage the expertise of professionals to build a culture of ownership for sustainable development projects. This is particularly important in FCT rural communities, where sustainable practices can have a transformative impact. To ensure the longevity and success of development projects, it is essential to involve local communities in the planning and implementation processes. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents, which is vital for the sustainability of these projects. Minister Wike’s administration can set up community engagement programs and partnerships with local organizations to promote this culture of ownership.
Minister Wike’s transformative leadership should serve as a powerful inspiration for other ministers within the Tinubu administration. It is time for each minister to wake up to their responsibilities, embrace the same level of commitment and drive, and work tirelessly towards the betterment of their respective sectors. The vision of a prosperous Nigeria can only be realized through collective effort and unwavering dedication.
For instance, the Ministry of Agriculture can draw inspiration from Wike’s approach by focusing on modernizing farming techniques and improving rural infrastructure to boost agricultural productivity. The Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment can prioritize creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, much like Wike’s focus on infrastructure to enhance economic activities in the FCT.
The current development strides in the FCT under the leadership of Minister Nyesome Wike are a shining example of effective governance. His efforts have not only brought immediate relief to the residents but have also set a high standard for ministerial performance. As we look forward to more groundbreaking achievements, we call on all ministers to take a page from Wike’s book and work with renewed vigor towards achieve the President Tinubu ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ for a brighter future for Nigerians.
Furthermore, we urge Minister Wike to continue leveraging professional expertise and community engagement to ensure the sustainability of development projects. By doing so, he will not only enhance the quality of life in the FCT but also set a precedent for sustainable development practices across Nigeria. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a shared global vision, and its realization in Nigeria depends on the collective effort of all government officials, stakeholders, and citizens. The remarkable progress in the FCT is a testament to what can be achieved with dedicated leadership. It is imperative for all ministers to embrace their roles with the same enthusiasm and commitment as Minister Wike.
The challenges of rising poverty and economic hardships are daunting, but they are not insurmountable. Each minister must recognize the urgency of these issues and take decisive action to alleviate the burdens faced by ordinary Nigerians. The efforts must be comprehensive, encompassing economic policies that stimulate growth, social programs that provide support to the vulnerable, and infrastructure projects that create jobs and enhance living standards.
If all ministers were like Wike, Nigeria would be well on its way to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The transformative impact of Minister Wike’s work in the FCT serves as a powerful reminder of what dedicated leadership can accomplish. It is time for each minister to wake up to their responsibilities and work with renewed vigor towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigeria. Let us all rally behind the vision of a developed and prosperous Nigeria, where every minister is as dedicated and effective as His Excellency, Nyesome Wike. Together, we can achieve the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development and build a nation that future generations will be proud of. The journey is long and challenging, but with leaders like Wike at the helm, there is every reason to be optimistic about the future.
Eric Adile is the Executive Vice Chairman, Alikwomobu Center for Sustainability and Participatory Development.
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