The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has called on residents of the FCT to elect progressive and visionary leaders in the forthcoming 2027 general elections. These leaders should be capable of sustaining and expanding the infrastructure development recorded in the territory. Wike made this call in his Independence Day message to FCT residents on October 1, 2026, as Nigeria marked its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Wike congratulated FCT residents and reiterated the FCT Administration's commitment to transforming Abuja into a world-class capital city. The goal is to achieve this through modern infrastructure and improved public services. He emphasized that the FCT remains a symbol of Nigeria's unity, with Abuja being a city where Nigerians from diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds live and work together.
The minister highlighted the FCT Administration's significant investments in critical infrastructure, including road construction and public transportation. These efforts aim to extend development beyond the city centre to communities across the territory. According to Wike, the administration has "totally transformed" the FCT road network, equipping roads with drainage systems and solar streetlights, even in the most remote rural communities.
The projects, Wike said, are aimed at improving accessibility and addressing security challenges in communities located far from the city centre. Additionally, ultramodern bus terminals have been constructed in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, with plans to extend similar facilities to Kuje, Bwari, and Gwagwalada. This expansion intends to provide residents with safer and more efficient transportation services.
Wike also disclosed that the administration is improving access to healthcare and education across the six area councils. He stressed that a healthy and educated population is essential to sustainable development. Furthermore, the minister said the administration is working with security agencies to keep the FCT safe, noting that surveillance has been intensified while community policing and modern technology are being deployed to combat crime.
Wike urged residents to use the elections as an opportunity to elect leaders who will sustain and expand the infrastructure development in the FCT. He encouraged residents to remain law-abiding and protect public infrastructure from vandalism, while also promoting peaceful coexistence among residents. Wike emphasized the importance of upholding tolerance and unity among Nigerians living in the capital.
The minister expressed appreciation to residents for their partnership and support for the FCT Administration. He prayed for the continued peace and prosperity of the territory and Nigeria, aiming to build an FCT that will be a beacon of hope and prosperity for the entire African continent.
Key points
- The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urges Nigerians to elect leaders who will sustain and expand infrastructure development in the FCT.
