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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling party would record stronger electoral success in the FCT in 2027, saying residents were already embracing ongoing government projects across Abuja and satellite towns.
The former Rivers State governor said visible infrastructure and improved living conditions were changing public perception at the grassroots level, particularly in rural communities that had allegedly suffered years of neglect.
“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,” Wike stated.
The minister spoke after inspecting several projects lined up for commissioning ahead of President Tinubu’s third anniversary celebration in Abuja.
He disclosed that no fewer than 20 projects would be inaugurated, adding that the number could increase as more works were nearing 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 AMAC and Bwari Area Councils,” he said.
Wike listed major road projects, including Pai-Gomani Road and Gwagwalada-Nyanya Road, stressing that the spread of development to satellite towns signalled a new era for the FCT.
Taking a swipe at opposition figures and coalition groups, the minister challenged them to visit project sites and witness what he described as “governance in action.”
“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.
During the inspection, Wike visited ongoing projects at Dakibiyu, Judges’ Quarters, Collector Road, Gaduwa, Kabusa, and the proposed Apo Mechanic Village relocation site.
He revealed that rehabilitation work at Dakibiyu had reached about 70 per cent completion, with finishing touches such as painting, installation of air-conditioners, and court polishing ongoing.
The minister also inspected residential quarters for judges of the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and FCT High Court, describing the facilities as almost completed and of high standard.
According to him, construction was equally progressing on residences for officials of the National Industrial Court and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
At Gaduwa, Kabusa and other locations, Wike said roadworks, bridges, walkways and streetlights had reached advanced stages, while some projects had already been completed.
“At the informal sector site, the roads and streetlights are already completed. What remains 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.
Responding to concerns over alleged preferential attention to the judiciary, Wike insisted that the administration was investing in all sectors.
“For the judiciary to be independent, you must provide the necessary infrastructure, welfare, and working conditions. It is not only about the judiciary. We are also providing water, schools, and other basic needs for Nigerians,” he said.
He maintained that the ongoing projects reflected an inclusive development drive aimed at extending infrastructure and basic services to neglected rural and satellite communities across the FCT.
