Tinubu Defends FCT Financial Reforms, Says Policy Is Driving Faster Development in Abuja

Tinubu Defends FCT Financial Reforms, Says Policy Is Driving Faster Development in Abuja

The Federal Government has defended its decision to grant the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) greater financial independence, insisting that the reform is already transforming Abuja through faster project execution and improved infrastructure delivery.

Speaking during the inauguration of the Body of Benchers Office Annex and newly completed staff quarters at the Nigerian Law School in Bwari, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the decision to remove the FCTA from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) was necessary to eliminate bureaucratic delays that had slowed development in the nation's capital. The President was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

According to the President, the reform has enabled the FCTA to access and deploy funds more efficiently, allowing projects that previously faced administrative bottlenecks to move forward at a much faster pace. He maintained that the visible changes across Abuja are evidence that the policy is producing the intended results.

Tinubu also commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, describing him as a key driver of the ongoing transformation in the Federal Capital Territory. He pointed to the construction and rehabilitation of roads, improvements to public infrastructure, and the completion of long-delayed government projects as examples of the progress recorded under the current administration. He also noted that the Nigerian Law School finally received its long-awaited Certificate of Occupancy, resolving an issue that had remained outstanding for years.

The President further dismissed concerns that the government's growing investment in judicial infrastructure could undermine the independence of the judiciary. Instead, he argued that providing modern facilities for judges, legal professionals, and institutions strengthens the administration of justice and demonstrates the government's commitment to the rule of law.

Beyond the projects already commissioned, Tinubu disclosed that additional investments are underway, including new student hostels, an auditorium, and the digitisation of academic and administrative services at the Nigerian Law School. Similar infrastructure projects are also being implemented across other institutions within the Federal Capital Territory as part of the administration's wider development agenda.

The policy has continued to generate debate among policy analysts and governance experts. Supporters argue that granting the FCTA greater financial flexibility has removed unnecessary administrative hurdles and accelerated development, while critics continue to stress the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.

For Abuja residents, however, the discussion goes beyond government policy. What matters most is whether these reforms continue to translate into better roads, improved public services, modern infrastructure, and a higher quality of life. As more projects are completed in the months ahead, the success of the reforms will be judged less by official statements and more by the visible changes experienced by the people who live and work in Nigeria's capital.