The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, Nyesom Wike, has been honoured by ThisDay and Arise Television as the Minister of the Year for 2024.
In a letter dated January 14, 2024, Mr Eniola Bello, Managing Director of ThisDay/ Arise Group, announced that Wike was selected from numerous candidates by millions of readers of ThisDay and viewers of Arise News Channel.
The award presentation is scheduled for January 27, 2025, at Eko Hotels in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The letter stated: “Congratulations on your nomination as Minister of the Year! Your service to Nigeria, Africa, and the world is commendable.
“The ThisDay Awards honour excellence in governance, public policy, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Your contributions have earned you this recognition.”
The letter further emphasised Wike’s resilience and determination during challenging times, noting that he stood out among hundreds of candidates.
Since taking office, Wike has overseen significant infrastructural advancements in Abuja’s city centre and its surrounding satellite towns.
Land administration reforms have improved markedly, enabling land allottees to receive their Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) within two weeks of payment.
To illustrate the progress made, Wike has signed 5,841 C-of-O documents since assuming office, in contrast to the 8,400 printed and signed during the previous eight years between 2010 and 2023.
This achievement means he is on track to surpass the total number of C-of-O’s signed in that time frame.