The minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, expressed optimism on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress would improve their electoral performance in the FCT during the 2027 general elections, citing ongoing infrastructure development throughout the territory.
Wike stated after reviewing numerous projects set for inauguration as part of events commemorating Tinubu’s second year in office.
According to the minister, FCT citizens were beginning to recognize the visible impact of government, particularly in satellite towns and rural regions that lacked basic infrastructure.
“What the people want is simple. They want to feel the impact of governance. It is not about magic. Nigerians are interested in good governance, infrastructure, electricity, and improved living conditions,” he said.
In response to inquiries about whether the ongoing projects might alter voting patterns ahead of the 2027 elections, Wike stated that the APC’s performance in the recent Area Council elections demonstrated increased support for the administration.
The minister pointed out, “What reason would people have not to vote for Mr. President now? How many governments before now have been able to impact the satellite towns the way this administration is doing?
“This is the first time people are seeing development extend beyond the city center into the satellite towns.
The former Rivers State governor noted the inauguration of the A2-Pai Road in Kwali as an example of the administration’s attempts to bring development to rural regions, noting that it was the first time a sitting president had visited the area to launch a project.
Wike also challenged opposition politicians to visit the FCT and examine the administration’s projects.
“I think it will be interesting for the public to see governance in action. I wonder where the opposition or coalition members are. They should come and see what is happening in the FCT,” he added.
Wike revealed that at least 20 projects would be inaugurated during the anniversary celebrations, although the number could increase as more projects near completion.
“I said not less than 20 projects, but it may even be more than 20 because I did not include the water projects at Bwari and Karu. There are also projects in the Abuja Municipal Area Council and Bwari Area Councils,” Wike said.
INEC disowns APC membership figures released by Yilwatda
Amaechi rejects ‘concocted’ ADC presidential primary results
He mentioned road developments like the Gomani-Yangoji and Kuje-Gwagwalada routes as continuing initiatives aimed at increasing growth beyond the city center.
The inspection tour included the repair of the Appeal Court Complex in Dakibiyu, the construction of Judges’ Quarters in Katampe, internal roadways in Katampe District, and the Apo Mechanic Village relocation site.
Wike stated that work at the Dakibiyu Appeal Court Complex had reached approximately 70% completion, with contractors handling finishing touches such as painting and polishing.
He visited the Judges’ Quarters and examined residences erected for the Court of Appeal, FCT High Court, and Federal High Court judges, praising the project as nearing completion.
He also toured projected residential quarters for Industrial Court judges and Code of Conduct Tribunal members, praising the pace of progress at the locations.
The minister also examined current projects on Collector Road, where walkways and lighting are nearing completion, as well as those in Gaduwa and Kabusa, where road markings, streetlight installations, and bridge construction are underway.
At the Apo informal sector relocation site being created by CGC for traders from the Apo Mechanic Village, Wike stated that road and streetlight installations had already been completed, while work on water supply and security facilities would begin soon.
“At the informal sector site where Apo Mechanic Village traders will be relocated to, the roads and streetlights are already completed.
“What is remaining now is the water connection. I also came with security officials so they can commence work on the police station and police residential quarters,” he said.
Addressing concerns about the administration’s emphasis on judicial infrastructure, the minister stated that assistance was being provided to all areas of the FCT.
Wike further stated that the ongoing initiatives reflected an inclusive development goal focused at improving living circumstances in both urban and rural areas of the Federal Capital Territory.
