Wike Tells Professional Bodies to Focus on Development, Not Criticism

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday in Abuja urged professional bodies across Nigeria to focus more on bringing development to their institutions instead of spending time attacking the government publicly.

Wike made the remarks while receiving members of the Body of Benchers led by its Chairman, Albert Akpomudje, during a visit to his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja. He said leadership should be measured by projects, reforms and improvements achieved during a person’s time in office.

According to the minister, leaders of professional associations should leave behind visible achievements that benefit members of their professions. He said occupying leadership positions only to appear regularly in the media to criticise government policies does not add value to institutions or their members.

Wike praised past and present leaders of the Body of Benchers for seeking government support aimed at improving facilities connected to the legal profession. He stated that the current leadership continued that approach by requesting projects that would improve infrastructure within the institution and make the environment more accessible.

The minister disclosed that the annex building of the Body of Benchers was close to completion and would likely be delivered in June. He also revealed that the access road around the Nigerian Law School and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Academy corridor had reached almost full completion.

He further approved another request for the construction of an access road leading to the annex building and directed officials of the FCT Administration to inspect the area and include the project in ongoing works.

Wike also criticised what he described as constant negative attacks from some professional groups. He said government and professional bodies should work together to solve problems affecting different sectors instead of maintaining confrontational relationships.

Speaking on the controversy surrounding government-provided accommodation for judges, the minister argued that such support should not be viewed as interference with the judiciary. He maintained that improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers helps strengthen institutions.

He added that leaders of associations should focus on attracting projects, reforms and opportunities that would improve the lives of their members and advance their professions.

Earlier during the visit, Akpomudje commended the FCT Administration for ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja. He said the legal profession had benefited from projects such as the annex building, the fire service station under construction and the road network within the area.

He also stated that cooperation among the executive, legislature and judiciary remained necessary for improving democratic institutions and ensuring better access to justice in the country.