President Bola Tinubu has revealed the political calculus behind his decision to approve the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) exit from the Treasury Single Account (TSA).
He disclosed that he first asked FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, whether the move would give his party an electoral advantage in the nation’s capital.
Speaking during the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr homage by FCT residents at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu offered an unusually candid account of how the major fiscal reform came about—and the political considerations that shaped it.
“I remember the day Nyesom Wike came to me and said, ‘Please, take us out of this problem of TSA, so that I can do more work, and I achieve more,’” the President recounted.
According to Tinubu, before granting the request, he challenged Wike to explain how the reform would benefit not just governance but also his political interests.
“Then I said, ‘Okay, tell me what you’re about to do.’ And he presented it. And I threw in my own political guide. I said, ‘Would that give me any opportunity for my party to win the election in FCT?’”
The President, referencing the political dynamic between Wike—a member of the opposition—and himself, continued: “I said, ‘I know where you are coming from—your own party or my party. If this thing goes too much in your own favour, you will lose your job.’ Then he said, ‘Okay, we settle that, Oga.’”
President Tinubu also declared that hunger is reducing, security is improving, and Nigeria is beginning to feel the results of his administration’s reforms.
Tinubu attributed part of the visible progress in the FCT to the efforts of Minister Wike.
The President, who expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful completion of Ramadan, said Nigerians are starting to experience relief across several sectors.
“We are living in peace, and security is improving. There is satisfaction in our output. The hunger is coming down. Food prices lowering. We are able to go to the market and do business,” he said.
While addressing the diverse delegation from the FCT, Tinubu praised the spirit of discipline, prayer, and compassion exhibited during the holy month of Ramadan.
He urged Nigerians to carry those values into everyday life, especially in caring for the less privileged.
“We must continue to share. We must remember the orphanages, the widows, the have-nots—believing that we can share both in joy and in times of need,” he said.
Turning his attention to developments within the FCT, President Tinubu applauded Wike, for bringing progressive ideas and executing key projects.
He cited the revival of abandoned infrastructure, the rehabilitation of health centers and schools, and the modernization of public services.
“We wouldn’t have been able to open our mouth to even celebrate if not for the progressive ideas you have given,” Tinubu told Wike. “The health facilities are being upgraded, our teachers and schools are being rehabilitated. Thank you, Wike.”
He also commended Wike’s performance as a southerner effectively managing affairs in the heart of northern Nigeria.
“That is a very good reflection of our diversity that we must use for our prosperity,” the President noted.
In his remarks, Wike congratulated the President and the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the 30-day fast, describing the holy month as a season that instills values of sacrifice, self-discipline, compassion, and unity—values he said align with the President’s leadership style.
“This visit marks a historic moment,” Wike noted. “It is the first time residents of the FCT have had the opportunity to extend our greetings and best wishes to you in person during this blessed period. We are truly delighted to be here.”
Highlighting the developmental strides achieved under Tinubu’s administration, Wike praised the President’s support in enabling key institutional reforms in the FCT.
He cited the FCTA’s exit from the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the creation of the FCT Civil Service Commission, the establishment of new Mandate Secretariats for Women and Youths, and the appointment of Permanent Secretaries as landmark steps that have strengthened governance and service delivery in the territory.
“None of these significant strides would have been possible without your commitment to the well-being of the FCT and its residents,” Wike said.
He further affirmed the FCT Administration’s unwavering loyalty to the Tinubu-led government and reiterated its full commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, the delegation that accompanied him to the Villa represented the rich diversity of the FCT—spanning religious, political, and traditional leaders, heads of security agencies, civil servants, members of the media, and everyday residents.
“Despite our different backgrounds, we are united in our unwavering support for your administration. This unity demonstrates our collective commitment to national progress under your visionary leadership,” the Minister added.
Wike also disclosed that the FCT is preparing an array of impactful projects for commissioning as President Tinubu’s second anniversary in office approaches.
These projects, he said, are focused on infrastructure development, improved economic opportunities, and enhanced quality of life for FCT residents.
“We still recall with gratitude your physical presence at five of the nine projects commissioned during your first anniversary. We now look forward to hosting Your Excellency again to witness firsthand the tangible progress made over the past 12 months,” Wike said.
Concluding his address, the FCT Minister offered prayers for the President, the First Lady, and the entire First Family, wishing them good health, wisdom, and divine guidance.
“May this Eid bring peace, prosperity, and continued progress to our nation,” he said.
