Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS), Mr. Michael Ango, in a move that signals another significant shake-up within the administration’s revenue-generating institutions.
The announcement was made on Friday by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communication and Social Media.
In his brief statement, Olayinka confirmed the immediate removal of Ango and directed that “the most senior official of the FCT-IRS has also been directed to take over the running of the revenue agency with immediate effect.”
No official reason was provided for the sack, leaving observers and stakeholders speculating about the motives behind the sudden leadership change. The decision, however, aligns with Wike’s ongoing reorganisation of agencies within the Federal Capital Territory, especially bodies responsible for revenue mobilisation.
Background to Ango’s Tenure
Michael Ango was appointed Acting Chairman of the FCT-IRS in August 2024 after securing presidential approval. With over two decades of experience in revenue administration and financial management, his appointment was seen as part of a broader effort to boost FCT revenue efficiency.
Under his leadership, the agency posted strong results, reportedly collecting about ₦262 billion in 2024, surpassing its ₦250 billion target. Ango also championed the harmonisation of revenue collection in the FCT—a move expected to reduce multiple taxation by consolidating collections under the FCT-IRS.
His sudden removal comes barely weeks after FCT-IRS staff honoured him for what they described as “visionary and exemplary leadership,” making Friday’s dismissal even more surprising to insiders.
Implications of the Shake-Up
Though the Ministry has remained silent on the cause of Ango’s removal, analysts say the decision appears consistent with Wike’s assertive approach to restructuring the FCT’s administrative and revenue systems.
By instructing the most senior official to assume control immediately, Wike aims to prevent disruptions in revenue operations while possibly setting the stage for deeper reforms within the tax administration architecture.
The development may also foreshadow more aggressive revenue mobilisation policies, which Wike has repeatedly emphasised as necessary to fund critical infrastructure projects across Abuja.
What Comes Next
Key areas to watch in the coming weeks include:
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Appointment of a new substantive FCT-IRS Chairman or confirmation of the senior official now acting in the role.
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Potential policy shifts within the revenue service, especially regarding tax enforcement, ground-rent compliance, and digital revenue systems.
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Stakeholder response, particularly from businesses, property owners, and investors who rely on predictable tax administration.
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Broader administrative reforms, as the move may signal further shake-ups across agencies under the FCT Administration.
The removal of Michael Ango marks a pivotal moment in the FCT’s revenue administration landscape. While the official reasons remain undisclosed, the decision underscores Wike’s continued drive to consolidate control, strengthen oversight, and reshape the mechanisms through which Abuja generates and manages its internally generated revenue.
