Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised Nigerians over what he described as a widespread reluctance to pay taxes despite demanding quality infrastructure from government.

Wike made the remarks on Wednesday while inspecting ongoing road projects in the Federal Capital Territory.

“Nigerians don’t like to pay tax” — Wike

The former Rivers State governor said many Nigerians often criticise tax-related enforcement but fail to meet their civic responsibilities.

“I’m not trying to defend AMAC when it comes to the issue of tax, Nigerians don’t like to pay tax but they can call you all sorts of names when it has to do with taxes,” he said.

Wike added that while tax collection must be done in a “civilised way,” compliance remains a major challenge.

“But knowing what we experienced too about payment of taxes, it would be difficult for me to say that they are right,” he added.

Call for balance between rights and responsibilities

The minister maintained that citizens expect improved infrastructure but are often unwilling to contribute through taxation.

“Nigerians want good infrastructure but don’t want to pay tax. They want everything free in this country,” Wike said.

His comments come amid ongoing public debates over tax reforms introduced under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which have faced criticism due to rising economic hardship following the removal of fuel subsidy.