Wike Attributes Unpopularity Among Civil Servants to Stricter Spending Policies

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that his unpopularity among civil servants stems from his aggressive efforts to curb the misuse of public funds.

Speaking during a monthly media briefing on Thursday, Wike explained that he has systematically blocked what he termed “avenues for diverting public funds,” specifically targeting what he considers excessive spending on overseas conferences and other non-essential activities.

The minister noted that when he assumed office in 2023, approximately 65 percent of the FCT budget was allocated to recurrent expenditure. He stated that he subsequently adjusted the budget structure to ensure that 70 percent is now dedicated to capital projects, with recurrent spending capped at 30 percent.

“We waste our resources on frivolities,” Wike said, questioning the rationale behind approving substantial sums—sometimes reaching ₦20 million per person—for week-long international training trips. He argued that officials should instead look to domestic examples in cities like Lagos or Port Harcourt for administrative comparisons, rather than seeking funding for foreign travel.

Wike asserted that by consolidating the funds previously earmarked for such trips, he has been able to channel significant resources into critical infrastructure, particularly road construction across the FCT. He acknowledged that these reforms have caused friction within the civil service, as many employees previously benefited from the unrestricted spending practices he replaced.

“And that’s why I can’t be popular among civil servants,” Wike remarked. “Those monies for conferences, I put the money together for roads.”

Since taking office, the minister has maintained a focus on infrastructure development, urban renewal, and reforms in land administration. His tenure has been marked by a strict approach to fiscal management, which he frames as a necessary shift from years of what he describes as waste and poor resource management to a development-first agenda for the capital city.