Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged that the nation’s capital will provide a secure and level playing field for all political stakeholders as the countdown to the 2027 general elections begins.
In a New Year message personally signed and released on Thursday in Abuja, the Minister assured residents and political actors alike that the FCT Administration is fully geared up to manage the anticipated surge in political activities.
He emphasized that Abuja, as the seat of power, would naturally become the epicenter of electioneering but maintained that orderliness would not be compromised.
“Being the Centre of Government, the Federal Capital Territory would witness a beehive of activities. Be assured that the FCT Administration will continue to provide an environment conducive for the orderly hosting of all political events preceding and relating to the general elections,” Wike stated.
Reflecting on the past year, the former Rivers State Governor expressed gratitude for the “cooperation of residents and friends of the FCT,” attributing the administration’s strides in infrastructure and development to their support.
He noted that despite “seemingly insurmountable obstacles,” the administration had recorded massive developments. Wike described 2026 as a pivotal year to build on these achievements.
“It is my earnest hope that this year, our Administration will receive more support from residents that will galvanize our plans and projections for the FCT into tangible developments, projects, and facilities that will greatly enhance the quality of life for all residents regardless of their social status,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that the groundwork has been laid for critical interventions in education, health, judiciary, transportation, agriculture, and security.
Residents, he promised, should expect the commissioning of rehabilitated schools, roads, bridges, health facilities, and security infrastructure in the coming months.
He credited President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ for driving “unprecedented development across the territory,” citing visible progress from the city centre in Abuja Municipal to satellite towns like Abaji, Kuje, and Kwali.
Wike also marked 2026 as a historic milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the FCT’s creation. He described the golden jubilee as a testament to the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers and the resilience of its people.
Turning his attention to local governance, the Minister charged residents to participate actively in the upcoming Area Council elections.
“Eligible voters are expected to exercise their rights to choose their leaders at the local government level. I urge you all to use your votes wisely,” he advised, vowing to ensure the local polls are conducted “in a free and fair atmosphere devoid of violence and illegalities.”
He concluded by urging residents to step into the new year with “dogged determination, unshaken faith, and unity of purpose.”