Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday expressed optimism that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would record stronger support in the territory, citing growing grassroots acceptance of ongoing infrastructural projects across Abuja and its satellite communities.
Wike said residents were responding positively to what he described as visible governance, particularly the expansion of roads, water and other infrastructure to rural areas and satellite towns. According to him, Nigerians were more interested in tangible development and improved living conditions than political rhetoric.
The minister spoke after inspecting six projects billed for commissioning ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third anniversary celebrations in Abuja. He disclosed that no fewer than 20 projects would be inaugurated, adding that the number could increase as work was still ongoing on several others.
Wike said the list also included water projects in Bwari and Karu as well as road projects linking Gomani to Yangoji and Kuje to Gwagwalada. He stressed that the spread of infrastructure to area councils and satellite towns signalled a new phase of development in the FCT.
“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.
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The minister said works at the Abuja’s Appeal Court Complex in Dakibiyu, Judges Quarters in Katampe, Katampe district internal roads, new location for the Apo Mechanic Village and other projects had reached advanced stages, adding that the administration remained committed to inclusive development and improved welfare for residents.
“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 water connection. I also came with security officials so they can commence work on the police station and police residential quarters,” he said.
On the judiciary, Wike dismissed claims of preferential treatment, insisting that the administration was providing support across 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 ongoing projects across the FCT reflected an inclusive development agenda, particularly in rural and satellite communities, which he said were now benefiting from infrastructure for the first time in decades.
