Abuja – During a courtesy visit from the Body of Benchers on Tuesday, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urged professional organizations across Nigeria to shift their focus from frequent public criticism to tangible development for their members. Wike welcomed the delegation, led by Chairman Albert Akpomudje, at his official residence in Life Camp. He emphasized that the true measure of leadership lies in the legacy left behind, rather than the number of televised condemnations of government policy. “What will you say is your legacy at the end of your tenure?” he questioned, warning that leaders who spend their time merely critiquing the state risk being judged on what they failed to achieve for their professions.
Wike commended the Body of Benchers for its historically proactive approach, highlighting the efforts of successive chairmen who have consistently lobbied for improved infrastructure and facilities for the legal profession. “You are not the first chairman, but you have brought forward requests that will upgrade the institution and benefit everyone. That is leadership,” he stated. He specifically mentioned two projects under the current administration: the annex building for the Body of Benchers, which is nearing completion and expected to be handed over by June, and the access road linking the Nigerian Law School and the EFCC Academy corridor, which is 98 percent finished. In response to a new request from the Benchers, Wike instructed relevant FCT officials to incorporate an additional access road to the annex into the ongoing works without delay.
Furthermore, Wike cautioned against what he termed “destructive criticism.” While he acknowledged the value of constructive feedback, he argued that constant negative commentary, which overlooks any positive government action, undermines progress. He referenced recent objections to government-built housing for judges, asserting that providing accommodation enhances judicial independence rather than compromising it, especially when private donations to judges receive little scrutiny. “Professional associations should identify gaps in their sectors and partner with government to fill them,” he advised. “If you spend all your time on TV programs criticizing the state, what have you attracted for your members? What have you improved?”
Chairman Akpomudje reciprocated the praise, commending the FCT Administration for what he described as a remarkable transformation of Abuja’s infrastructure, particularly projects benefiting the legal community. He expressed gratitude for the near-completion of the Benchers’ annex, the ongoing fire service station, and the network of access roads within the complex, noting that similar upgrades are occurring across both urban and rural parts of the capital.
The minister’s remarks underscore a broader call for collaborative engagement between professional bodies and government agencies, aiming to translate advocacy into concrete outcomes that strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and improve access to justice.
