By Suleiman Ibrahim
President Bola Tinubu has revealed that his administration’s decision to exempt the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) was driven by a desire to accelerate development and enhance resident participation in governance. He attributed the move to a direct request from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who argued that TSA restrictions were hindering infrastructure progress in the capital city.
Speaking during a Sallah homage by FCT residents at the State House, Tinubu explained that he was convinced by Wike’s rationale and promptly approved the exemption.
This decision grants the FCTA autonomy over its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), estimated to exceed N250 billion, for project execution.
“I remember the day that the FCT Minister came to meet me, and he said, ‘Please take us out of the problem of the TSA so that I can do more work and achieve more.’ I said, ‘Show me what you are about to do,’ and he presented his thinking and belief,” Tinubu recounted. “And everything started changing rapidly. I started seeing the opening up of the rural areas by the FCT, the resuscitation of abandoned projects, and the completion of the vice president’s official residence, which had been abandoned for years. The FCT rehabilitated health care centres, upgraded facilities for schoolchildren, and provided furniture.”
Tinubu highlighted the tangible results of the TSA removal, including improved infrastructure, enhanced healthcare services, and strengthened security measures. He emphasized that these developments would not have been possible under the previous TSA framework.
“We wouldn’t have been able to open our mouths to celebrate if not for the progressive ideas you brought to FCT. We can now celebrate the innovative ideas brought to the FCT,” Tinubu stated.
He urged FCT residents and Nigerians to prioritize results over ethnic and religious affiliations in their leadership choices.
“Today, we live in peace, and security is improving. Hunger is coming down. Food prices are lowering. We can go to the market and do business. And our diversity and belief in ourselves are becoming stronger,” Tinubu said. “We are not looking for magic. We are looking for results. We are looking for comfort. We are praying for good health. We are looking for someone who cares.”
Tinubu praised Wike for demonstrating the strength of Nigeria’s diversity and promoting unity.
“The job is not just about Wike or me, but everyone. Nyesom Wike is proving the diversity of Nigeria. He strengthened that diversity to develop prosperity, showing us that we are all members of one family, living together in the same house, in different rooms, and under one roof,” he said.
He appealed for greater tolerance, broad-mindedness, and patriotism from citizens, urging them to carry the lessons of Ramadan forward.
Wike, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the President for hosting the FCT residents and pledged his unwavering loyalty and commitment to developing the capital city. He assured Tinubu that numerous projects in the FCT would soon be completed.
“Despite our varied backgrounds, we are united in our unwavering support for your administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Wike said.
The Sallah homage was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, and a delegation of FCT leaders, including lawmakers, judicial officers, religious and traditional leaders, security chiefs, and representatives of women and youth groups.
