FG to Prioritise Tourism Infrastructure, Says Wike

By Sofiat Adenekan

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Saturday reiterated the federal government’s commitment to developing tourism infrastructure and promoting private sector involvement in the management of public assets.

Speaking during his visit to a government-owned golf facility in Abuja, Wike emphasized the importance of preserving government property while enhancing its economic value through tourism and investment.

“This is my first time visiting this place, and I must say I’m impressed,” the Minister stated.

“This property belongs to the government, and I’m proud of the way it has been managed so far. We must begin to see such spaces not just as leisure spots, but as economic assets.”

Drawing comparisons with countries that rely heavily on tourism despite lacking natural resources like oil and gas, Wike stressed that Nigeria has the potential to attract international investors through well-maintained and functional tourist destinations.

He noted that the recently developed Bola Tinubu International Conference Center represents the kind of infrastructure capable of transforming Abuja into a global hub for diplomatic and business activities.

“People should take the time to visit these facilities before making comments. This is the kind of standard we need to move the country forward,” he said.

The Minister further highlighted the importance of facilities like golf clubs, particularly during events such as ECOWAS meetings, which attract international visitors. “You may have diplomats or investors who are golfers. Offering such amenities adds to the value of the city and strengthens its appeal as a destination,” he explained.

Addressing the management of government-owned properties, Wike reinforced the administration’s position on appointing boards of trustees and management committees to oversee operations, noting that the government is not necessarily the best manager of commercial assets.

“We will engage private managers to run facilities like this, but that does not make them the owners,” he clarified. “People need to understand that the government retains ownership and will take necessary actions, including sealing off properties, if obligations such as ground rent are not met.”

The Minister disclosed plans to involve Julius Berger, the construction firm behind the initial development of the golf facility, in completing ongoing works, particularly the clubhouse. “We know Julius Berger is expensive, but they are familiar with the structure and can handle it efficiently,” he said.

Wike concluded by urging residents and business stakeholders to support such initiatives, asserting that improving infrastructure and maintaining public spaces are essential steps in preserving the city’s integrity and boosting investor confidence.

“This is what anyone with good taste and genuine interest in national development would want. We must not let these facilities deteriorate. Reviving them is an emergency we must address immediately,” he said.