Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike has sparked debate with his assertion that “no government can solve all problems,” urging Nigerians to temper expectations amid mounting economic and social challenges.
Wike made the statement on Monday during a media parley held in Abuja, where he addressed concerns about project commissioning and the scope of ongoing development efforts within the FCT.
“I will not say here that every problem has been solved. All problems cannot be solved, even if this government stays for 20 years; no government can solve all problems.
“But government is solving problems that at least will help to improve the lives of people,” he said.
Addressing questions about why some projects are not being formally flagged off or commissioned, Wike explained that the government prioritises visibility and impact when selecting projects to highlight.
He cited ongoing projects in the FCT, such as road repairs and water supply improvements, as evidence of progress, while acknowledging limitations due to funding and bureaucratic constraints.
He said, “It’s not possible for us to commission every project.
“We take what we think are major, capital-intensive projects, ones where billions of naira have been spent, and showcase those. But when you’re talking about smaller projects, must we commission everything?”
“We’re working, but we need citizens to play their part too,” he added.
He called on the media to collaborate with the administration by visiting project sites alongside relevant Mandate Secretaries to observe the progress being made across sectors such as education and social development.
“We’re not saying we’ve done everything. But we are doing what will at least make a difference in the lives of the people, and that’s the whole point of governance,” he stated.