The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on federal lawmakers representing the territory to push for the creation of a special intervention fund to enhance the capital’s financial strength.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike said the FCT is grappling with rising fiscal pressures, particularly following the implementation of the new national minimum wage. He noted that current allocations from the federation account are insufficient to meet critical salary obligations and infrastructure maintenance.
Justifying recent deductions from the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of Area Councils, Wike said the funds were withheld to address the backlog of unpaid salaries and entitlements of council workers, especially primary school teachers.
Although the minister admitted he does not have direct control over local government councils, he said the action became necessary after repeated defaults in the payment of minimum wage.
According to him, the withheld revenue will be used to settle salary arrears amid ongoing industrial action, describing the move as being in the public interest.
Wike acknowledged that resolving governance challenges would take time but assured that the FCT Administration remains committed to transparency, accountability, and long-term development.
