The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress will perform better electorally in the FCT during the 2027 general elections, attributing the expected gains to ongoing infrastructure development across the territory.
Wike made the remarks on Tuesday after inspecting several projects slated for commissioning as part of activities marking President Tinubu’s second year in office. He said the administration’s visible projects were already changing public perception, especially in satellite towns and rural communities.
According to him, residents are beginning to feel the impact of governance beyond Abuja’s city centre.
“What people want is simple. They want to see governance in action. It is not about magic. Nigerians are interested in infrastructure, electricity, and better living conditions,” he said.
Speaking on the possibility of the projects influencing voting behaviour in 2027, Wike pointed to recent Area Council election outcomes as evidence of growing support for the ruling party.
He argued that many residents now had reasons to support the current administration due to the spread of development projects.
“What reason would people have not to vote for Mr President now? How many governments have been able to extend development to satellite towns like this administration is doing?” he asked.
The minister highlighted the construction of the A2-Pai Road in Kwali as a key example, noting that it was the first time a sitting president had visited the area to inaugurate a project.
He also challenged opposition politicians to visit the FCT and verify ongoing developments for themselves, insisting that governance in the territory was now more visible and impactful.
“I wonder where the opposition or coalition members are. They should come and see what is happening in the FCT,” he said.
Wike disclosed that no fewer than 20 projects would be commissioned during the anniversary period, adding that the number could rise as more projects near completion. These include water projects in Bwari and Karu, as well as infrastructure in Abuja Municipal Area Council and Bwari Area Council.
He listed ongoing road works such as the Gomani–Yangoji and Kuje–Gwagwalada roads, aimed at expanding development beyond the city centre.
During the inspection tour, Wike visited several key sites, including the rehabilitation of the Appeal Court Complex in Dakibiyu, construction of Judges’ Quarters in Katampe, internal roads within Katampe District, and the relocation site for Apo Mechanic Village traders.
He said the Appeal Court Complex was about 70 per cent completed, with finishing works ongoing, while the Judges’ Quarters and other judicial housing projects were nearing completion.
The minister also inspected road projects in Gaduwa and Kabusa, where streetlights, road markings, and bridge works are progressing, as well as Collector Road, where walkways and lighting installations are almost completed.
At the Apo informal sector relocation site, he noted that roads and streetlights had been completed, while water supply systems and police facilities were expected to commence shortly.
Wike maintained that the administration’s development agenda was inclusive, covering both urban and rural areas, and extending to all sectors, including the judiciary.
He added that the ongoing projects were part of a broader effort to improve living standards across the Federal Capital Territory.