The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, announced that President Bola Tinubu has allocated N25 billion in the 2025 capital budget for healthcare initiatives in the FCT. This revelation comes amid criticisms and threats of protests from various sectors claiming neglect in favor of road infrastructure development.
Wike Addresses Sectoral Neglect Claims
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II in Abuja on September 18, 2025, Wike firmly rejected allegations of sectoral neglect. He emphasized that the Tinubu administration is committed to balanced development across all sectors in the FCT. “No sector is being overlooked in our efforts to advance the FCT’s development,” Wike stated, dismissing threats of protests as attempts to derail the administration’s agenda.
Wike underscored his resolve, saying, “No amount of blackmail or opposition will deter me from doing what is right. President Tinubu is determined to transform Abuja, and I am fully prepared to support that vision.” He clarified that infrastructure projects, such as the road development, are designed to benefit FCT residents and boost economic growth, not for personal gain. “These roads are for the people of Abuja, positioning the city to compete globally,” he added.
Healthcare Investment Amid Ongoing Challenges
The N25 billion allocation for healthcare projects signals a significant commitment to improving medical infrastructure and services in the FCT. This move follows mounting pressure from resident doctors, who launched an indefinite strike on September 15, 2025, to protest unpaid salaries, delayed promotions, and deteriorating hospital conditions. The strike, led by Dr. George Ebong, President of the Association of Resident Doctors, FCT Administration (ARD-FCTA), highlighted demands for timely salary payments, release of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, hospital renovations, and recruitment of additional medical staff.
The doctors’ action, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), followed an unanswered seven-day ultimatum issued on August 28 and a warning strike on September 8. Their grievances include salary delays of up to seven months, erroneous deductions, unpaid hazard allowances, and stalled promotions for post-Part II Fellows.
Broader Development Vision
Wike’s announcement aligns with President Tinubu’s broader agenda to modernize the FCT’s infrastructure and services. Mrs. Nancy Nathan, Acting Head of Service of the FCTA, commended Wike’s efforts to enhance the territory’s infrastructure, noting significant progress in modernization projects.
The minister emphasized that the road projects, alongside healthcare investments, aim to improve residents’ quality of life and elevate Abuja’s status as a global city. “By completing these developments, Abuja will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with leading cities worldwide,” Wike said.
Looking Ahead
The allocation of N25 billion for healthcare projects is a step toward addressing critical issues in the FCT’s medical sector, particularly in light of the ongoing doctors’ strike. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation and timely resolution of the resident doctors’ demands. As the Tinubu administration pushes forward with its development agenda, Wike’s firm stance against protests signals a commitment to maintaining focus on transformative projects for the FCT.
