Stop complaining, attract development to your institutions – Wike to professional bodies
Wike Urges Professional Bodies to Focus on Development
Abuja – Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urged Nigerian professional bodies on Tuesday to prioritize tangible development over public criticism of government. Wike made these remarks during a courtesy visit from delegates of the Body of Benchers, led by Chairman Albert Akpomudje, at his official residence in Life Camp.
Wike emphasized the importance of setting a legacy based on actual projects and reforms rather than frequent media critiques of the government. “What is leadership all about? At the end of your tenure, what will you say is your legacy?” he asked the assembled delegates.
He criticized leaders who occupy positions merely to voice criticisms, asking, “While you had the opportunity, what did you do for your profession?”
The minister praised the Body of Benchers for its proactive approach in seeking government support to enhance infrastructure for the legal profession. He noted that the current administration is nearing completion of the Body of Benchers’ annex building, scheduled for delivery by June, and that an access road near the Nigerian Law School and the EFCC Academy is nearly complete.
In addition, Wike approved a new request for access to the Body of Benchers annex, directing relevant officials to assess and incorporate the project into ongoing works.
While addressing the issue of criticism from professional groups, Wike labeled much of it as “destructive,” saying that constructive engagement with the government yields more productive outcomes. He criticized negative views surrounding government-provided housing for judges, arguing that such initiatives bolster judicial independence rather than weaken it.
“If the government provides accommodation for judges, some say they are compromised. When individuals give money to judges, nobody talks about compromise,” he stated.
Wike urged professional associations to focus on identifying gaps in their sectors and collaborating with the government to address them. “If you are the president of an association and all you do is attend television programs to criticize the government, that is not enough. What did you attract for your members? What did you improve?” he questioned.
Earlier in the meeting, Akpomudje commended the FCT Administration for its significant infrastructural developments benefiting the legal profession. He expressed gratitude for the completion of the Body of Benchers’ annex, the ongoing construction of a fire service station, and improvements in access roads within the complex.
“Roads are being constructed and upgraded daily both in the city center and rural areas. Indeed, this is what governance should be,” Akpomudje said. He also stressed the importance of collaboration among the executive, legislature, and judiciary in strengthening democratic institutions and enhancing access to justice in Nigeria.
