Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has included his two sons as part of Nigeria’s delegation to the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum in Dubai.
The summit facilitates collaboration among cities, governments, and businesses for trade and investment across the Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
Wike departed Abuja on Sunday and arrived in Dubai early Monday. He was received by Nigeria’s Consul General in Dubai and Federal Capital Territory Administration officials.
Photos showing his sons wearing official delegate lanyards triggered public criticism, with many accusing the minister of misusing public funds and turning official travel into a family trip.
Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, responded to critics on X, stating: “When e reach your turn, carry your enemies travel.”
Online reactions condemned the move as an abuse of office, denial of opportunities to career civil servants, and a symbol of elite privilege. Some compared it to similar instances involving President Tinubu’s son, Seyi, at official events.
Critics argued that public funds covered flights, accommodation, and allowances for the trip, while others questioned the relevance of the sons’ participation in a mayors’ summit.
