Wike issues ultimatum to FCT contractors over project reforms

By Kunle Sanni –

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned contractors handling projects in Abuja to either align with the administration’s new infrastructure maintenance strategy or step aside. He declared he is fully prepared for any resistance the reforms may trigger.

Speaking on Thursday at the flag-off of the construction of Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II, Wike criticized the existing system, which he said allows continuous payments for substandard maintenance work. He emphasized that the FCT Administration is introducing a new, more accountable payment structure.

“Very soon we are flagging off a project to light up the whole of Abuja—and you will see another fight,” Wike said. “Every day I see files requesting funds for maintaining streetlights and backroad lights. You keep paying and paying.”

He accused certain contractors and political actors of benefiting from inefficiencies. “There are people whose only job is to supply generators. With the new strategy, they’ll fight back. But I’m fully prepared for it,” he added.

Wike further stated that some officials exploit maintenance budgets as a source of overhead funding, warning that the new system will disrupt those benefits and provoke resistance from vested interests.

“There are outsiders who believe it’s their traditional title to supply generators. There are politicians whose only role is to install streetlights. They will all fight—but we are ready,” he said.

The minister is scheduled to flag off and commission several projects across the FCT over a 16-day period, running through October 16, as part of a renewed push to improve infrastructure delivery.

Wike reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s development agenda, urging anyone unwilling to work under the new system to step aside. “If you’re not ready for this job, go home and sleep. I’m here to help Mr. President move this country forward,” he said.