‘Wike Has Transformed Abuja, Empowered Local Contractors’

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr Nyesom Wike, has been commended for reviving Abuja’s infrastructure thereby making the nation’s capital a reference point in national development.

The president of Gosima Group, Dr Gideon Chidiebere Osi, made the assertion during a press briefing on the organisation’s 2025 Management Training Programme, which focused on Leadership Training in Improved Project Management, Process Standardisation and Organisational Structure.

Osi highlighted the critical need for greater inclusion of Nigerian companies in major projects to foster sustainability and economic empowerment.

“Local contractors possess the expertise to deliver world-class results if given adequate support and fair compensation. We commend the current minister of FCT; he has been doing a great job. Abuja is awake for the first time in many years,” he said.

He, however, called for an increased inclusion of Nigerian companies in pivotal projects to drive sustainability and economic empowerment.

“Let him do everything possible to ensure more Nigerian companies are involved. That is the only way we can have sustainability,” he said.

While addressing misconceptions about local contractors, Osi emphasised that their perceived underperformance is often due to systemic issues rather than a lack of capability.

“The notion that local contractors always use substandard materials is not true. Local contractors have done exceptionally well everywhere.

“If you go to America, Europe, or Canada, it’s Nigerians who are doing great things there. So, if they can perform well abroad, the issue isn’t the people, it is the system,” he said.

Osi insisted on the necessity of equitable compensation between local and foreign contractors.

“Whatever you are going to pay foreign contractors, pay local contractors as well. They deserve the opportunity to excel.”

“Local contractors who are awarded projects yet fail to execute them should face legal repercussions,” he added.