Daniel Otera
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has dismissed rumours about his health, calling them politically motivated and unfounded. Speaking at the flag-off ceremony for a road construction project in Wuye District, Abuja, on Thursday, the minister clarified that his recent trip to the United Kingdom was for rest, not medical treatment as widely speculated.
The event, which marked the commencement of a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity in the Wuye District, provided a platform for Wike to set the record straight. Addressing a crowd of government officials, contractors, and residents, he expressed frustration at the tendency to politicise every aspect of public life in Nigeria.
“You see, the level of this country where we are, we play politics with everything. How can somebody sit down and just say all kinds of things? Where the people saw me, I don’t know. The hospital you saw me in, I do not know,” Wike said, his tone blending exasperation with sarcasm.
The minister, who previously served as Governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023, explained that since assuming office as FCT Minister in June 2023, he has maintained a rigorous work schedule without taking a proper break. Since his appointment, Wike has spearheaded numerous infrastructure projects aimed at transforming Abuja’s urban landscape. Key initiatives include the ongoing construction of major roads and the installation of solar streetlights as part of the “Light Up Abuja” program, which covers several districts across the capital.
Wike’s administration recently flagged off the construction of Arterial Road N1 in Wuye District, a critical project designed to improve connectivity and ease traffic congestion. Furthermore, the FCT Administration has prioritized the completion of 12 new roads and the expansion of existing road networks to better serve the growing population of Abuja.
“These initiatives reflect my commitment to addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges,” Wike stated. “But, I have also highlighted the need for brief periods of rest to ensure the sustainability of my leadership, particularly during recent overseas trips.”
While addressing the rumours about his health, Wike also highlighted the importance of balancing work with rest. He shared his perspective humorously, saying, “This time, I said, whatever it is, I must travel without any file. So, if the whole place will crumble, let it crumble. Because one has to be alive before one can satisfy other people. The day you drop, they will announce another person. So, you must make sure while you are working, you also take time out and relax.”
The issue of public interest in the health of Nigerian political leaders has gained significant attention in recent years. While healthcare has always been a critical component of governance, it has become an increasingly prominent topic, especially when leaders are absent from public view or travel abroad for medical treatment. According to a 2025 study by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), the health status of leaders plays a vital role in shaping public perception of their leadership abilities. The study reveals that healthcare is not only a personal matter but also a public concern, influencing how citizens evaluate the performance and transparency of their leaders.
There has been growing public concern regarding the transparency of the health statuses of Nigerian leaders, particularly when they seek medical treatment abroad. This concern is often heightened when political figures travel overseas or are absent for extended periods, as foreign medical trips by Nigerian leaders have historically been associated with serious health issues. A report by Voice of America in 2017 revealed that the Nigerian government spent approximately $1 billion in 2014 on medical trips for officials. The report highlighted that this expenditure for overseas healthcare puts a strain on the nation’s resources, especially when local healthcare infrastructure remains underfunded and inadequate.
Moreover, the Nigerian healthcare system continues to face challenges such as inadequate medical facilities, lack of necessary equipment, and poor access to healthcare in rural areas. As a result, the tendency of Nigerian leaders to seek medical treatment abroad has sparked debates about the allocation of public funds and the government’s commitment to improving local healthcare standards. According to a 2019 article by Voice of America, Nigeria loses over $1 billion annually to medical tourism, with thousands of Nigerians, including high-ranking officials, seeking treatment in foreign countries due to the poor state of healthcare in the country.
In a light-hearted yet sharp jab at his detractors, Wike took a swipe at those spreading the rumours, invoking a curse in jest. “God will continue to help them with their health challenges. I’ll even sign the condolences,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience. While the comment was delivered humorously, it underscored his irritation with what he described as unnecessary political games.
The Wuye road project is a crucial component of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration’s broader initiative to improve urban infrastructure in Abuja. The project involves the development of a 12-kilometre dual carriageway designed to ease traffic congestion and improve accessibility to residential and commercial areas in Wuye. Along with pedestrian walkways, drainage systems, and street lighting, the road is expected to serve over 50,000 residents and commuters daily upon completion.
This project is part of the FCT’s broader plan to enhance connectivity and urban development across Abuja. Wike has emphasized the importance of road infrastructure in facilitating the city’s growth. The project is expected to boost economic activity within the district and improve the daily commute for thousands of residents. The Wuye road is projected to be completed by 2026 and is among several other initiatives that are set to reshape Abuja’s infrastructure landscape.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has achieved a historic 95% implementation rate for its 2024 budget, marking a significant milestone in the government’s infrastructure development agenda. This achievement is credited to the extension of the budget period until June 2025 by the National Assembly, which allowed for continued funding and progress on vital projects.
Minister Nyesom Wike highlighted that the FCT has made substantial strides in executing key initiatives, including the construction of major roads and public infrastructure, such as the renovation of the Abuja International Conference Centre. Notable infrastructure projects that are either underway or slated for completion in 2024 include the N16 Interchange at NICON Junction and several arterial roads. This high level of budget execution signals a continued commitment to urban development in the nation’s capital.
For the 2025 fiscal year, the FCT Administration has proposed a budget of ₦1.78 trillion, with ₦1.28 trillion allocated for capital projects. This allocation underscores the administration’s dedication to improving Abuja’s infrastructure, including key projects that will enhance the city’s connectivity and overall urban development.
Notable capital projects in the 2025 budget include the completion of Roads B6 and B12, Arterial Road N20, FCT Highway 105 (Kuje Road), and the Inner Southern Expressway. Additionally, substantial investments are planned for the Abuja Light Rail, the Greater Water Supply Project, and the continued development of the Guzape, Wuye, and Maitama II Districts. The FCT Administration’s focus on infrastructure is designed to improve the quality of life for residents, ease traffic congestion, and create opportunities for economic growth.