Tinubu Tells Wike: Ignore the Noise, Stay on Task
Wafric News – June 10, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to remain focused on delivering results in Abuja and to disregard critics and political “busybodies.”
Speaking on Tuesday at the commissioning of the newly refurbished International Conference Centre—now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre—the president described Wike as a “transformational leader” and commended him for pushing ahead with urban renewal in the nation’s capital.
“Don’t pay attention to busybodies and bystanders,” Tinubu said. “Continue your good work. You have the vision, foresight, and determination to succeed.”
The refurbished facility, which has undergone major upgrades under Wike’s leadership, was presented as part of the administration’s broader push under the Renewed Hope Agenda, a national development blueprint focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, education, energy, and urban development.
“We understand that modern infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving economy,” Tinubu said during the ceremony. “This conference centre represents Nigeria’s commitment to regional diplomacy, continental trade, and global partnerships—all of which must put Nigeria first.”
But Tinubu was also clear on one point: the use of the new conference facility won’t be free, even for political allies. “You want to use this place, you gonna pay for it,” he said, backing Wike’s earlier declaration that the centre’s halls would be available strictly on a paid basis, with no exemptions.
Wike, a senior figure in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former two-term governor of Rivers State, joined Tinubu’s cabinet in August 2023—a move that raised eyebrows across the political spectrum. Yet, he has remained one of the president’s most visible and active ministers.
He isn’t the only opposition figure in the APC-led government. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), was appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in late 2024—another example of Tinubu’s ongoing effort to broaden his political base beyond party lines.
The inauguration event was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and several other key ministers, including Wale Edun (Finance and Economy) and Lateef Fagbemi (Justice).
By WafricNews Desk.
By WafricNews Desk.
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