The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on Nigerians to pay their taxes, stressing that the government needs funds to deliver social services to the public. Wike made this appeal on Wednesday in Abuja during the inaugural Abuja Business and Investment Summit, organized by the Abuja Investment Company Limited.
The former Rivers State governor noted that the event’s theme, ‘Optimising Investment Through Partnerships,’ aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy of fostering collaborations to boost investment opportunities.
Wike also dismissed the misconception that the government does not need money. He highlighted past failed partnerships between the government and the private sector, emphasizing that the government will no longer invest billions of naira and land without ensuring returns on those investments.
He stated, “The government considers this: If I invest money and land, why shouldn’t there be returns?”
Challenging the idea that the government should not make money, he asked, “Who said that? Without revenue, how can the government provide services? It needs funds.”
Wike stressed the importance of tax payments and emphasized that creating a conducive environment for investors would benefit both the investors and the government.