The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reassured residents of the capital territory that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to fulfilling its promises with integrity and efficiency. Speaking at the commissioning of a major road project in Abaji on Monday, Wike emphasized that his team is different from the “usual Nigerian politicians.”
The event took place in Abaji town, the headquarters of Abaji Area Council, where the minister commissioned the newly completed 5-kilometre Naharati-River Ukya to Unguwan Hausawa Road, featuring a two-span bridge and adjoining streets.
Promises Fulfilled in Abaji
Wike recalled the stakeholder meeting held in late 2023, where residents were invited to highlight critical infrastructure needs.
“We consulted with you, and you requested this road as a priority project,” Wike stated. “We promised to deliver it, and here we are today, commissioning it in January 2025. This is a testament to our commitment to the people.”
The minister commended the construction company for completing the project ahead of schedule. He noted that the road was flagged off in January 2024, with a promise of completion by December. The project was finished in November, further underscoring the administration’s focus on timely delivery.
Commitment to Security and Education
Wike outlined other ongoing projects in Abaji, including two new police divisions to enhance security in the area.
“In our stakeholder meeting, you mentioned the need for more police divisions,” Wike said. “We promised to build them, and I assure you they will be completed in a few months.”
He also highlighted ongoing construction at Abaji University, stressing the administration’s dedication to improving educational infrastructure.
“Work is progressing at the university, and we will continue to invest in projects that enhance education and security in this region,” he added.
Focus on Satellite Towns
Wike assured residents that the government’s development agenda extends beyond the central city to the satellite towns across the FCT.
“Throughout this week, from Monday to Friday, we will commission projects across the six area councils,” he said. “This demonstrates that we are not just focused on the city; we are equally committed to developing the satellite towns.”
The minister also used the opportunity to thank the people of Abaji for their support of President Tinubu’s administration.
“We thank God for giving Nigeria a leader like President Tinubu at this critical time. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in driving these achievements,” Wike stated.
‘Not the Usual Politicians’
In a pointed remark, Wike distanced himself and his team from the stereotypical image of Nigerian politicians who fail to deliver on their promises.
“Don’t take us as the usual politicians,” he declared. “Ours is to make a promise and fulfill it. We are here to serve and ensure the development of our communities.”
Resonating with Residents
The event drew positive reactions from residents, who expressed their gratitude for the completed road and other promised projects.
“This road has been a problem for years, especially during the rainy season,” said Abdullahi Musa, a community leader. “We are happy that Minister Wike has fulfilled his promise. It shows that this administration cares about us.”
The sentiment was echoed by Maryam Idris, a trader in Abaji, who said the road would boost business activities. “Transportation costs will reduce, and it will be easier to bring goods into the town,” she noted.
Background and Context
Since assuming office, Wike has been vocal about his intention to transform the FCT and prioritize inclusive development. This approach aligns with President Tinubu’s broader agenda to rebuild trust in governance and address long-standing infrastructure deficits across Nigeria.
The Naharati-River Ukya Road project is part of the FCT Administration’s efforts to improve transportation and connectivity in rural areas. The two-span bridge is expected to facilitate safer and more efficient movement of goods and people, particularly during the flood-prone rainy season.
Security remains another focal point of the administration, with ongoing investments in police infrastructure and personnel. The addition of two new police divisions in Abaji aims to curb criminal activities and ensure the safety of residents.
In the education sector, the government’s investment in Abaji University signals a commitment to enhancing learning opportunities in satellite towns. This initiative is expected to reduce the strain on tertiary institutions in the city and encourage local development.
Moving Forward
As Wike and his team continue their week-long commissioning of projects in the six area councils, residents are hopeful that this momentum will be sustained.
“We want this to be the beginning of a new era where promises are kept, and politicians are accountable,” said Musa, the community leader.
Wike’s message to Abaji residents was clear: the Tinubu administration is focused on delivering results, not empty rhetoric.
“Every promise we have made, be assured we will fulfill it,” Wike reiterated. “This is our commitment to you, and we will not let you down.”
With tangible progress and a renewed sense of hope among residents, the FCT administration is setting a new benchmark for governance in Nigeria.
