Wike Flags Off Multi-Sports Centre in Abuja, Warns Contractors: “Project Funds Not For Marrying Another Wife”

TOYIN ADEBAYO

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has launched the construction of a multi-sports event centre in Abuja, warning contractors against mismanaging project funds.

Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony on Monday, Wike said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eight-point agenda to empower youths through sports, employment, and revenue generation.

“Today, sports is one of those things that has kept many countries going. Brazil exports so many players to the world and makes a lot of money from it. You cannot do that if you don’t have facilities that encourage and bring out the talents of our youth,” Wike said.

He assured that the facility would meet international standards, catering to football, basketball, volleyball, squash, tennis, and other sports. The minister emphasized that government would partner with private operators to ensure sustainability.

Wike also issued a stern warning to the contractors:
“The money we are paying you is not for you to go and marry another wife. It is for you to finish this job on time. Do the job first, and deliver a quality job. If you don’t do it well, that’s the end of your contract in FCT. I don’t joke with it.”

The Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised Wike for his “visionary leadership,” saying the project would serve as a legacy of opportunity and unity for future generations.

Managing Director of Tagwe Nigeria Limited, Engr. Peter Otegwa, assured timely delivery of the project by June 2026, pledging to build a world-class sporting hub that would host national and international competitions while creating jobs for residents.

The Abuja multi-sports centre is the first of several planned across the FCT’s area councils as part of efforts to expand youth engagement and talent development.