August 27, (THEWILL) – In the heart of Nigeria’s political and administrative matrix lies Abuja, a city once revered for its grandeur and meticulously planned architecture. Decades ago, this capital city was a testament to Nigeria’s aspirations and potential, a symbol of unity and progress. However, over the years, the once-glistening vision has dulled, with Abuja struggling under the weight of infrastructural decay, chaos and lawlessness. The streets that once bustled with promise now whisper stories of neglect, while the master plan that shaped the city’s elegance has been eroded by challenges that have taken root.
Those who recall the splendour of Abuja’s past do so with sombre nostalgia of glorious times past. Attempts made by passionate leaders to restore its former glory have waxed and waned at different times. Now, another opportunity beckons.
At the heart of this new shot is Nyesom Wike, a politician known for his unwavering commitment to change. As Wike takes the reins as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), I consider this his opportunity to rejuvenate Abuja and turn it once again into a shining example of Nigeria’s potential. But, more than that, it is a chance for him to prove himself all over again in a diverse, cosmopolitan region as different from the metropolis of Rivers State.
During his tenure as governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023, Wike carved a path of ambitious infrastructural development and transformative reforms. His tenure was characterised by a myriad of achievements that left a lasting impact on the state’s landscape.
Wike’s commitment to progress was evident in the initiation and completion of numerous road projects, flyovers, bridges, hospitals, schools, markets and public facilities that now form an essential part of Rivers State’s infrastructure. Notably, his administration proudly touted the completion of over a thousand projects within a span of seven years, an accomplishment that reshaped the state’s urban fabric.
Furthermore, Wike’s vision extended beyond physical structures. He undertook significant judicial and security reforms that bolstered the state’s legal system and contributed to improved law enforcement. Establishing new courts, appointing judges, constructing police stations and providing essential equipment to security agencies, his efforts aimed to create a safer and saner environment for the people of Rivers State.
Wike’s response to the EndSARS protests by setting up a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate human rights violations demonstrated his commitment to addressing pressing societal issues. However, these achievements were not without their share of challenges and criticisms. His leadership style drew critique from various quarters, with accusations of being dictatorial, wasteful, corrupt, and vindictive. Some pointed to instances of alleged overpricing and substandard work in certain projects, casting a shadow over the otherwise ambitious development agenda. These challenges highlighted the complexities and nuances of governance in a dynamic state like Rivers.
In reflecting on his legacy as governor of Rivers State, Wike’s impact is undeniable. His vision for infrastructural transformation and commitment to improving the lives of the people led to significant achievements, altering the trajectory of the state’s development. Yet, the recognition of challenges and criticisms serves as a reminder that leadership is a multifaceted endeavour shaped by both triumphs and trials.
As Wike takes on the mantle of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the lessons learned from his time in Rivers State provide valuable insights into his approach to addressing the challenges that lie ahead in his new role.
The work of restoring Abuja truly began under former Minister Nasir el-Rufai, a controversial figure with a fervent commitment to breathing new life into the city’s master plan. Serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from 2003 to 2007, el-Rufai embarked on a journey to reinvigorate Abuja along its original master plan.
El-Rufai’s tenure marked a pivotal moment in Abuja’s history, as he dismantled the encroachments that had marred the city’s aesthetics. Armed with the master plan as his guide, he undertook a series of bold measures to reclaim Abuja’s original design. His resolute enforcement of the plan led to the demolition of structures that violated its integrity, irrespective of their ownership. His actions were met with mixed reactions – some applauded his determination to restore the city’s order, while others lamented the loss of structures that had become a part of the city’s fabric, without recourse to the original intent of the designers.
El-Rufai’s tenure was not without controversy, as critics voiced concerns about the displacement of communities and the socio-economic impact of his actions. However, his unwavering commitment to the master plan represented a critical effort to safeguard Abuja’s vision and legacy. His dedication left an indelible mark, laying the foundation for a restored capital city.
Yet, the pursuit of restoring Abuja’s glory faded in the wake of El-Rufai’s departure. The subsequent FCT ministers, including Aliyu Modibo (2007–2008), Adamu Aliero (2008–2010), Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (2010–2015) and Mohammed Bello (2015–2023), encountered challenges in maintaining the momentum of revitalisation. The shadow of Abuja’s former brilliance seemed to lengthen as the subsequent leaders struggled to sustain the vision that El-Rufai had ignited and instead superintended over the decay and chaos that Abuja is today.
The path to renewal had encountered obstacles, yet the story of Abuja’s past efforts to regain its splendour remains a testament to the power of visionary leadership. El-Rufai’s tenure showcased the potential for transformative change, while the subsequent challenges underscored the complexities of sustaining such change in the face of shifting leadership dynamics.
As a new chapter unfolds under Wike’s leadership, the tale of Abuja’s rejuvenation serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiring narrative of the possibilities that lie ahead.
As Wike steps into his role as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, his mission is clear: to resurrect Abuja’s faded splendour. So far, he appears to be making the right calls. He has vowed to reverse the degradation of the city. He has restarted the abandoned light rail project and announced plans to demolish structures which are distorting the city’s original master plan. As he reimagines Abuja, his legacy expectedly will be one of transformation, breathing life into a city that was once Nigeria’s beacon.
This journey is not just about rebuilding structures; it is about reigniting dreams and shaping a brighter future. He will require the cooperation of all stakeholders if progress is going to be made. This will demand leadership and communicative skills from him, but it will be richly rewarding as they will all be on the same page in the developmental demands of this objective. This task will be a litmus test for Wike, who will now have another opportunity, after what he accomplished in Rivers State, to prove he has the capacity to deliver a mandate and he will do the same whenever he has a higher calling, like to become president of Nigeria.
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