Wike Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Says Nigeria’s Challenges Cannot Be Fixed Overnight.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, arguing that the administration inherited a severely damaged economy that requires time to recover.

Speaking during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike acknowledged that the government’s policies have brought hardship to many Nigerians but maintained that the reforms were necessary to reverse years of economic decline and lay the foundation for long-term economic stability. 

The former Rivers State governor praised President Tinubu for removing the petrol subsidy, describing the decision as a difficult but necessary step that previous administrations had avoided despite recognising that the subsidy was unsustainable.

According to Wike, leadership often requires making tough decisions in the national interest, even when they are unpopular. He urged Nigerians to remain patient, stressing that rebuilding an economy weakened over many years could not be achieved within a short period. 

The minister also weighed in on Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. He dismissed the presidential ambitions Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, expressing confidence that President Tinubu remains well-positioned for re-election.

Wike criticised Obi, accusing him of engaging in what he described as “politics of sentiment,” while also taking aim at Atiku over previous political statements and positions.