No Excuses! Wike Tells Contractors: Deliver If You Take Our Money

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stressed the importance of competence and accountability among contractors and officials working under his administration, declaring that anyone entrusted with government projects must demonstrate the ability to deliver results regardless of prevailing challenges.

According to Ireporter Online, Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Federal High Court Judges’ Quarters in Katampe, Abuja, an event held as part of activities commemorating President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented the President at the ceremony.

The FCT Minister praised the completion of the project and expressed confidence that its significance would be appreciated by stakeholders, noting that the Tinubu administration remains committed to strengthening the judiciary through improved infrastructure and welfare.

He emphasized that the independence of the judiciary is closely tied to the provision of a conducive working environment and better welfare packages for judicial officers, describing such investments as essential to upholding the rule of law.

Wike also highlighted his hands-on approach to project supervision, revealing that he had personally visited the site more than 20 times to monitor progress and ensure contractors adhered to agreed timelines.

Reiterating his strict stance on project execution, the minister said contractors who receive government funds during the rainy season are expected to continue work without using the weather as an excuse for delays. In a humorous remark, he suggested they could even engage “rain doctors” if necessary to keep projects on schedule, expressing satisfaction that the judges’ quarters were completed within the stipulated timeframe.

He further appealed to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court to ensure the newly commissioned facility is properly maintained, stressing that preserving public infrastructure should be treated with the same level of care people give to their personal homes.

Wike lamented what is often described as a poor maintenance culture but expressed optimism that the facility would remain in excellent condition when officials return for inspection in the coming year, adding that sustaining the quality of public assets is essential to maximizing government investments.

The minister maintained that the ongoing infrastructure drive under President Tinubu’s administration is gradually reshaping public perception and setting new standards for service delivery in the Federal Capital Territory.