The Traffic

How Tinubu’s Bold Move Unlocked Billions for Abuja’s Development

By Achimi Muktar

In a groundbreaking policy shift, President Bola Tinubu has revealed that removing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) has unlocked long-stalled development, revived abandoned projects, and accelerated infrastructure growth in Nigeria’s capital.

Tinubu made the revelation while receiving FCT residents led by Minister Nyesom Wike at the Presidential Villa during a Sallah homage, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

The Turning Point: How Abuja Broke Free from TSA Shackles

The TSA, designed to centralize government funds for financial transparency, had long restricted the FCT’s ability to execute projects swiftly. Wike, upon assuming office as FCT Minister, sought presidential approval to remove these restrictions, promising rapid transformation.

“I remember the day the FCT Minister came to me and said, ‘Please take us out of the problem of the TSA so that I can do more work and achieve more.’ I asked him to show me his plans, and since then, everything started changing rapidly,” Tinubu recounted.

According to the President, this decision has led to:

✅ Completion of abandoned projects: The long-forgotten Vice President’s official residence is now near completion.

✅ Expansion of road networks: Major road projects stalled for years have resumed, easing traffic congestion.

✅ Healthcare upgrades: More funding is now available for hospitals and clinics, improving medical services.

✅ Stronger security measures: Enhanced funding has allowed the FCT to invest more in security infrastructure.

Results Over Sentiments: Tinubu’s Leadership Stand

Tinubu praised Wike’s leadership and commitment to development, urging Nigerians to judge leaders based on tangible results rather than ethnic or religious affiliations.

“Let’s focus on what’s being done, not where someone is from,” Tinubu said, reinforcing his stance on performance-driven governance.

Wike, in turn, expressed gratitude for the President’s intervention, emphasizing that Abuja is now on a fast track to becoming a true world-class capital.

The Bigger Picture: Why the TSA Decision Matters

For years, the TSA framework ensured financial discipline by consolidating all government funds under the Central Bank of Nigeria. While this improved accountability, it also created bureaucratic bottlenecks, slowing down development in the FCT.

Now, with greater financial autonomy, Abuja is witnessing rapid improvements—proof that targeted policy changes can yield immediate dividends.

As Abuja’s skyline continues to transform, one thing is clear: The decision to free the FCT from the TSA has set a new precedent in governance, one that other states may soon seek to replicate.