Wike calls on Abuja residents to vote for leaders who will improve infrastructure

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has asked residents to use the 2027 general elections to choose leaders who can maintain and grow ongoing infrastructure projects in the area.

Mr Wike made this appeal during his Independence Day message to FCT residents on Thursday, as Nigeria celebrated its 66th anniversary.

He said the upcoming elections will allow residents to elect leaders who can continue the development initiatives in the territory.

"My dear residents, as the nation prepares for the forthcoming general elections in January 2027, I urge you all to see it as an opportunity to vote in progressive, visionary leaders that will sustain and expand the infrastructural revolution that has started in the FCT, leaders who have vision and capacity to bring more development and prosperity to the people," he stated.

The minister highlighted that the FCT Administration has invested significantly in roads, public transport, healthcare, and education to change Abuja into a modern capital.

He mentioned that the administration has expanded the road network from the city center to surrounding communities, including drainage systems and solar streetlights in some areas.

Mr Wike added that these projects aim to improve access to communities while also addressing security issues in areas further from the city center.

He also revealed that a state-of-the-art bus terminal has been built in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, with plans to create similar facilities in Kuje, Bwari, and Gwagwalada.

Additionally, the administration is working to enhance healthcare and education in the six area councils by renovating primary healthcare centers and schools.

"Healthy and educated populations are the foundation of sustainable development," Mr Wike noted.

On the topic of security, the minister said the FCT Administration is collaborating with security agencies to safeguard lives and property across the territory.

He mentioned that surveillance has been increased, and community policing alongside modern technology is being used to fight crime.

Mr Wike urged residents to support the government's development initiatives by following the law and protecting public infrastructure from damage.

He also encouraged cleanliness and order in the capital and urged people to live peacefully with others from different ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds.

Describing Abuja as a symbol of national unity, the minister said the FCT is a place where Nigerians from all parts of the country come together.

"The Federal Capital Territory stands as the ultimate symbol of our national unity, a place where Nigerians from every tribe, tongue, and faith come together to live, work, and thrive in peace," he said.

Mr Wike stated that the administration's main goal is to turn Abuja into a world-class capital city where public services effectively serve all residents.

He said the development plan is being extended beyond the city center to ensure that residents in satellite towns and rural areas also gain from government projects and services.

The minister expressed hope for Nigeria's future and praised President Bola Tinubu's administration for its reform efforts.

He said the FCT will continue to support the federal government’s Renewed Hope agenda while extending development to communities across the territory.

"We recognize the challenges that have faced our nation in the past 66 years, but we also see a great opportunity for renewal and sustainable growth. We are very optimistic that the future is brighter," Mr Wike concluded.