The Centre for Transparency and Accountability, a leading Civil Society Organization (CSO), has praised Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, as an invaluable asset to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet.

During a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the organization’s president, Moses Adam, commended President Tinubu for prioritizing competence over party affiliation in selecting Wike to oversee the FCT ministry. He stated, “It is rare for a President to appoint a Minister from outside his party, but Asiwaju Tinubu has done just that. Today, Nigeria benefits from this decision, and we are thankful.”

Adam emphasized that the last time residents of satellite towns and villages in the FCT experienced a meaningful government presence was during Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s administration, as subsequent governments concentrated mainly on the city center. “Mr. Wike has restored our confidence in the strength of the nation’s capital. His commendable efforts warrant recognition, and we appreciate the President’s trust in the Minister,” he remarked.

Reflecting on the positive transformations initiated by Wike in just over a year, Adam noted, “The previous administration’s eight-year tenure saw minimal visible progress—it felt like movement without motion. In a little over a year, however, the changes are evident for all to see. If Nigerians were to evaluate Ministers based on their performance, Wike would undoubtedly rank at the top.”

The organization also highlighted the beneficial effects of the significant logistical support provided to security agencies, noting that the increase in police night patrols has substantially reduced crime in the FCT.

Furthermore, the group expressed gratitude for the collaboration between the National Assembly and the executive branch in the swift passage of the 2024 statutory and supplementary budgets for the Federal Capital Territory Administration. Adam emphasized, “Without the backing of the 10th National Assembly, we wouldn’t be celebrating these achievements. We thank our lawmakers in both chambers for considering the needs of the masses and encourage them to continue their cooperative efforts with the executive for the benefit of our nation.”