The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday delivered a Distinguished Personality Lecture at the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Abuja, where he spoke on how political leadership affects infrastructural growth in Nigeria and the link between democracy and good governance.
The lecture, held at the main campus auditorium of the university, brought together academics, students, policymakers and members of the public.
Wike used the platform to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999 and to question whether the system has moved beyond elections to real improvement in the lives of citizens.
He said democracy should not be reduced to voting during elections alone but must be judged by the quality of life it creates. According to him, roads, schools, hospitals, power supply, security and job opportunities are the true tests of democratic governance.
He noted that citizens measure democracy through daily experiences with public services and infrastructure, not through political speeches.
Wike argued that Nigeria’s development challenges are largely tied to the quality of leadership. He said the country does not lack ideas or resources but often suffers from weak direction and poor implementation.
In his view, leadership serves as the link between democratic promises and real development. Without vision, discipline and courage, he said, democracy remains empty and infrastructure suffers.
Speaking on national leadership, he pointed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s record in public office and recent policy decisions as examples of firm political will.
He referred to the removal of fuel subsidy and other reforms as steps taken to correct long-standing economic issues, even though they came with hardship. He also mentioned efforts aimed at decentralising development initiatives and improving national security as part of ongoing reforms.
Turning to infrastructure, Wike described it as the backbone of national growth. He said development cannot happen without strong physical and social structures.
According to him, infrastructure connects communities, supports businesses and improves living standards. He added that governance becomes real to citizens when projects are visible, functional and fairly distributed.
He cited ongoing projects in the Federal Capital Territory as evidence of what focused leadership can achieve. He said road construction, renewal of public facilities, enforcement of planning laws and extension of development to satellite towns are part of efforts to restore order and improve living conditions in Abuja.
He maintained that the capital city reflects the nation’s image and must show discipline, planning and service delivery.
Wike also spoke on the role of universities in strengthening democracy.
He described higher institutions as spaces where ideas are tested and future leaders are shaped. According to him, universities must train students to demand accountability, defend democratic values and participate actively in national development.
He said political education is necessary to prevent democratic decline.
In his closing remarks, the minister called for leadership rooted in responsibility and service.
He said democracy must produce real benefits for citizens and that governance should be guided by fairness, discipline and long-term thinking. He urged scholars and students to remain engaged in national discussions and to work towards a Nigeria where democracy leads to progress and improved living standards.
The lecture formed part of the Faculty of Social Sciences’ ongoing series aimed at discussing national issues and promoting dialogue on governance and development.