Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday expressed confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would perform better in the FCT, citing increased grassroots acceptance and enjoyment of government infrastructural projects across the territory.
Wike said residents were beginning to respond positively to what he described as visible governance, especially the extension of infrastructures to satellite towns and rural communities.
“What the people want is simple, they want to feel the impact of governance. It is not about magic. Nigerians are interested in good governance, infrastructure, electricity and improved living conditions,” he said.
The minister spoke after inspecting six out of the projects being prepared for commissioning ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third year anniversary celebration in Abuja.
He disclosed that not fewer than 20 projects would be ready for inauguration, adding that the figure could rise as some projects were still being finalised.
“I said not less than 20 projects, but it may even be more than 20 because I did not include the water projects at Bwari and Karu. There are also projects in AMAC and Bwari Area Councils,” Wike said.
He listed additional road projects including Gomani to Yangoji and Kuje to Gwagwalada Road, stressing that the spread of infrastructure across satellite towns marked 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.
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.