THE MINISTER of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has asserted that Nigeria requires visionary and courageous leadership like that of President Bola Tinubu to realize the nation’s full potential.
Wike made this declaration during his Distinguished Personality Lecture titled: “The Nigeria of Our Dreams”, delivered at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, on Thursday.
In his address, Wike identified poor leadership as the most significant obstacle hindering Nigeria’s progress. He referenced the renowned Nigerian author, Chinua Achebe, whose seminal work, The Trouble with Nigeria, argued that the country’s fundamental challenge is the absence of effective leadership.
“This assertion, as harsh as it may seem, remains indisputable,” Wike stated. “Historically, many of our leaders have emerged through self-serving political maneuvers rather than genuine commitment to national development. This has been the case across both military and civilian administrations.”
However, Wike expressed optimism, stating that President Tinubu exemplifies the kind of leader Nigeria needs to achieve sustainable growth.
He emphasized that the country requires a leader with integrity, resilience, and a firm belief in Nigeria’s vast possibilities. Such a leader, he noted, must make bold, well-informed decisions to unlock the nation’s potential.
“The ideal leader must possess the courage to innovate, build, and expand developmental frontiers while prioritizing excellence over mediocrity,” Wike said. “More importantly, this leader must foster a society where citizens are free to realize their potential and enterprise thrives.”
Wike affirmed that President Tinubu has demonstrated these qualities through his actions, citing his unwavering commitment to democracy and his transformative impact as Governor of Lagos State.
He also praised Tinubu’s decisive move to abolish the fuel subsidy regime upon assuming office — a policy that previous administrations had debated but lacked the political will to implement.
“Previous leaders acknowledged the detrimental effects of fuel subsidy but succumbed to fear of backlash. Tinubu took the bold step, and though the policy has faced challenges, its long-term benefits are evident,” Wike explained. “States now have increased revenue, debt accumulation has slowed, and petrol prices are gradually stabilizing in response to market forces.”
Additionally, Wike highlighted Tinubu’s efforts to address Nigeria’s over-centralized governance structure through the establishment of zonal and regional commissions aimed at empowering local development.
On national security, the FCT Minister noted that the administration is tackling insecurity through enhanced funding, training for security personnel, and the recruitment of forest guards to deny bandits and terrorists safe havens. “With these measures, the era of banditry and terrorism will soon be a thing of the past,” he declared.
Commendations from Dignitaries
Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, lauded Wike as a forthright and exemplary leader. Represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, Adeleke praised Wike’s infrastructural transformation in Abuja, describing it as visionary.
The vice chancellor of OAU, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, described the lecture’s theme as timely, given Nigeria’s current socio-political challenges.
“This discourse invites us to reflect on governance, civic responsibility, and strategies for national development,” he remarked.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, who presided as the Royal Father of the Day, commended Wike for his fearlessness and honesty in public service.
“Whether loved or criticized, Wike remains an upright leader who speaks truth to power,” the monarch stated.
The event underscored widespread recognition of Tinubu’s leadership and Wike’s call for collective efforts toward building a prosperous Nigeria. (NAN)
