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Nigeria’s FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that growing public attention has made it difficult for him to freely visit restaurants, parks, and other public places in Abuja without attracting large crowds.
Wike made the disclosure during the FCT media chat on Tuesday, while responding to questions on whether residents should expect to see him taking evening walks or relaxing at some of the newly developed recreational spaces across the nation’s capital.
The minister said although he enjoys interacting with residents, unexpected crowds often create security concerns and make it difficult to maintain the purpose of such outings.
Wike recalled an experience when he visited a restaurant without his security detail, saying he was quickly surrounded by people seeking to greet him and take pictures.
“I went to one of the restaurants to eat. I didn’t go with security, but I told my driver, I just entered the restaurant. Before I knew it, over 50 people were there,” he said.
He explained that while the public attention was a sign of goodwill, it also created challenges because large crowds could become difficult to manage.
“It’s not as if you’re not happy to be there, but you also have to be very, very careful,” Wike added.
The FCT minister said a similar situation occurred during his visit to the newly remodelled Abuja city gates, where residents gathered shortly after noticing his presence.
“I went to the city gates, a few people were there. Before I knew it, people started to take off,” he said.
Wike assured Abuja residents that he would still visit public spaces occasionally but would not disclose the time or location in advance to avoid attracting unnecessary crowds.
“Yes, from time to time, I walk in, but I won’t tell you it will be so-so day or it will be so-so time,” he said.
According to the minister, the issue is not about fear of attacks but about ensuring safety and preventing situations where residents’ excitement could lead to overcrowding.
“People can rush, people want to take pictures with you, all kinds of things, so you have to be very, very careful,” Wike stated.
The FCT minister has recently received commendations for infrastructure projects in Abuja, including the remodelling of city gates and other urban development initiatives.
“I’m surprised that there’s nowhere I go to that people will not call my name.”
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike says he would like to spend more time in Abuja’s parks and public spaces, but increasing crowds and security concerns have made such visits difficult. pic.twitter.com/zvN4mfiKjE
— News Central TV (@NewsCentralTV) August 4, 2026
