Abuja: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on professional bodies in the country to refrain from criticising government actions and instead concentrate on implementing reforms. Wike made these remarks during a visit from the Body of Benchers, led by its Chairman, Albert Akpomudje, at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister emphasized that focusing on reforms would lead to tangible development for professional bodies and their members, rather than expending energy on government criticism. Wike urged leaders of professional associations to be remembered for the projects and reforms they contributed to, rather than frequent media appearances critiquing government actions. He questioned the legacy of leaders who focused primarily on criticism, suggesting that constructive engagement with the government would yield better results.
Wike commended the leadership of the Body of Benchers for consistently seeking government
intervention to enhance infrastructure and facilities for the legal profession. He noted the exemplary leadership demonstrated by successive leaders of the Body of Benchers in their efforts to improve the institution. He condemned what he termed “destructive criticism” by some professional groups and advocated for constructive criticism that acknowledges positive government actions.
The minister particularly addressed criticisms regarding government-built houses for judges, arguing that such infrastructure and welfare support for judicial officers strengthen institutions. He advised professional associations to identify gaps in their sectors and collaborate with the government to address them. Wike highlighted that under the current administration, significant progress had been made, including the nearing completion of the annex building of the Body of Benchers, with an expected delivery by June. Additionally, the access road around the Nigerian Law School and the Economic and Financial Crime Commission Acad
emy corridor were reported to be 98 percent complete.
Wike approved Akpomudje’s request for an access road to the Body of Benchers annex building and instructed relevant FCT administration officials to incorporate the project into ongoing works. Akpomudje expressed gratitude for the FCT administration’s efforts, noting the remarkable infrastructural transformation across Abuja, especially projects benefiting the legal profession. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among the executive, legislature, and judiciary in strengthening democratic institutions and improving access to justice in Nigeria.