The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike has warned that security and health challenges facing the nation’s capital require urgent national intervention.

Wike, while speaking during the budget defence before the Senate on Wednesday, emphasised that the FCT’s role as seat of government and host to diplomatic missions demanded coordinated security approach.

“You cannot talk about autonomy in a city where the President resides, where the Inspector-General of Police, the National Security Adviser, and every corporate heads of the country operates from. The security of this city is not something we can handle alone,” he stated.

The minister revealed the ongoing collaboration with federal security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Department of State Services (DSS).

“This city requires total security architecture because of its national importance. We have begun serious collaboration with national security agencies. We can’t afford failure in this area,” he added.

Wike also lamented absence of functional surveillance systems, citing political interference and bureaucratic delays.

“You wonder why we still can’t have effective CCTV coverage in the capital. Sometimes, it is internal politics, sometimes it is outright sabotage. Even when projects are approved, you find people who deliberately frustrate implementation,” he said.

On calls for FCT autonomy, Wike cautioned against oversimplification, noting constitutional constraints.

“The FCT is not like any other state. You don’t have a House of Assembly here. Our laws are made by the National Assembly. This setup is by design and cannot be wished away,” he said.

The minister however proposed a multi-sectoral summit involving security, health, and FCT stakeholders to address the challenges.

“The issues we face here are complicated and cannot be solved in isolation. We need a coordinated effort that brings all stakeholders together,” he said.

In the health sector, Wike announced the procurement of advanced MRI and CT scanners for FCT hospitals.

“As of yesterday (Tuesday), we completed procurement processes for an MRI and CT scan machine. These will be delivered to our health facilities soon,” Wike said.

He said this was part of FCTA effort to improve access to quality medical care in the territory. (Daily Trust)