In a fiery political statement laced with both sarcasm and determination, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has openly declared his intention to intensify infrastructural development across Abuja, with the hope that the visible progress will unsettle critics of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking during the official commissioning of the newly completed Arterial Road N16—linking Shehu Shagari Way from Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way)—Wike didn’t mince words in addressing what he described as “unwarranted bitterness” from those opposed to President Tinubu’s leadership since he took office in 2023.
The ceremony, held in the Katampe District of Abuja on Wednesday, was attended by President Tinubu himself, alongside top government officials, FCT stakeholders, contractors, and residents. The commissioning marked yet another milestone in the administration’s drive to transform the capital’s infrastructure and improve connectivity in key areas.
During his address, Wike said he was recently “spiritually touched” to switch on the television, where he came across critical commentaries and opposition narratives aimed at undermining Tinubu’s developmental agenda. He described the experience as an awakening, which only served to further strengthen his resolve.
“Sometimes, I don’t know, spiritually I was touched. I was just touched to turn it [the TV] on, and I was watching, and I didn’t realise that people could be in pain, but now I know that such people are in pain,” Wike said to laughter and applause.
The former Rivers State governor continued with characteristic flair, promising to roll out even more projects that would, in his words, “give them high blood pressure.”
“I now must make sure I continue to give them high blood pressure. As they continue to be in pain, it’ll be sweetening us, and that’s now my job,” he added. “I’ll be happy, moving around, and laughing every time, and they’ll be there shouting, fighting, and killing themselves. So, Mr President, thank you for being part of this revolution.”
Wike’s remarks drew both amusement and attention, serving as a clear indication of the administration’s political messaging strategy: showcase visible progress and let the results speak louder than the opposition’s rhetoric.
The commissioning of the Arterial Road N16, along with complementary roads within the Katampe District, is part of a broader urban infrastructure plan aimed at easing traffic congestion, opening up new development corridors, and enhancing the living standards of Abuja residents. According to Wike, several abandoned road projects inherited from previous administrations have now been revived and completed under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Mr. President, you gave us a clear mandate: complete what was started, and do not leave any community behind. Today, with this road network completed, the Katampe District is now fully connected and open for development. Investors can now come in, residents can move freely, and the economic value of this area has just appreciated,” the FCT Minister said.
President Tinubu, in his brief remarks at the event, praised Wike’s energy and commitment, affirming his administration’s pledge to prioritize development in all parts of the country. “What we are doing here is not politics. It is service,” Tinubu said. “We must continue to build for the future, connect communities, and empower our people.”
Wike’s comments also take on greater significance within the larger context of Nigeria’s current political environment, where the Tinubu administration continues to face scrutiny over economic reforms, fuel subsidy removal, and currency fluctuations. For the FCT Minister, however, the answer to criticism lies not in back-and-forth exchanges but in tangible results.
Political observers have noted that Wike, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has carved out a unique political path by working closely with the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government, especially after his appointment as FCT Minister. His rhetoric on Wednesday further cements his posture as a staunch defender of Tinubu’s administration, often willing to confront detractors head-on.
Residents and stakeholders in the Katampe District expressed optimism over the new road network, which they say will ease access and drive urban growth in the area.
“This project is a blessing for us,” said Chief Emeka Okwuosa, a community leader in Katampe. “For years, we felt cut off. Now, with these roads completed, everything changes—business, transportation, even safety.”
Construction firms involved in the project also lauded the FCT administration for what they described as “clear vision and uninterrupted funding.” Project engineer Musa Ibrahim of Setraco Construction said the road was completed within record time thanks to strict timelines and proactive support from the FCT authority.
“With Minister Wike, there is no room for delay,” he said. “He pushes everyone hard, but the results are clear. Abuja’s skyline is changing, and we’re proud to be part of that transformation.”
As Wike and the Tinubu administration continue their development push in the FCT, the political undertone of his statement is likely to spark reactions from opposition leaders and public commentators alike. Yet, for the Minister, it seems the strategy is simple: let the projects continue to speak louder than political noise.
“Our focus is results,” Wike concluded. “No amount of television noise will stop what we’re doing. We’ll keep building, we’ll keep working, and we’ll keep smiling—while others can continue with their blood pressure issues.”
