FCT monarchs praise Tinubu’s infrastructure drive, confer ‘Hasken Abuja’ title on Wike
…As minister backs Aduda’s senatorial ambition Traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Thursday commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing infrastructural development in the nation’s capital, attributing
...As minister backs Aduda's senatorial ambition
Traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Thursday commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing infrastructural development in the nation’s capital, attributing much of the progress to the efforts of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, particularly in satellite towns.
The monarchs also called for greater recognition of indigenous communities in the FCT, even as they conferred on Wike the chieftaincy title Hasken Abuja (Light of Abuja) in appreciation of his contributions.
Speaking during an appreciation visit by the FCT Stakeholders Assembly at the Federal Capital Development Authority Conference Hall in Abuja, the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the FCT Council of Chiefs, Adamu Baba Yunusa, lauded the administration for improving the welfare of traditional rulers and initiating key projects, including the construction of a new palace in Abaji.
He said the honour reflects Wike’s “visionary leadership” and commitment to the development of the FCT, citing reforms that have enhanced the status of traditional institutions and restored their dignity.
The traditional rulers also presented a list of demands, including the provision of 17 tractors—one for each chiefdom—to strengthen food security in rural communities. They further advocated for the elevation of historically significant chiefdoms such as Garki and Jiwa.
In response, Wike assured the monarchs of his commitment to protecting the interests of indigenous people. He directed the Mandate Secretary for Agriculture to provide tractors for all 17 chiefdoms and asked the Council of Chiefs to submit recommendations for the creation of third-class traditional stools.
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The minister also pledged to address pending land certificate issues based on submissions from stakeholders, stressing his resolve to prioritise the needs of local communities.
“I am now from here. For me to be the Light of Abuja, I must protect your interests,” Wike said, while emphasising the need for stronger political representation for the FCT at the National Assembly.
On the 2027 elections, Wike cautioned stakeholders against electing inexperienced representatives, warning that weak leadership could undermine the territory’s influence at the federal level.
“The Senate is not for all-comers. Experience and ranking matter. You must have a strong voice,” he said, expressing concern over past representation which, according to him, failed to adequately advocate for the FCT.
He urged voters to make informed and strategic choices, warning that repeated mistakes could hinder the territory’s ability to attract development and influence national policy.
Wike also linked political alignment with development outcomes, noting that despite limited electoral support in 2023, the Tinubu administration has continued to deliver infrastructure projects across the FCT.
“In 2023, most of you did not give Mr. President up to six per cent, yet he has done so much for you… now that you know, do not make that mistake again,” he said.
“In 2023, most of you did not give Mr. President up to six per cent, yet he has done so much for you… now that you know, do not make that mistake again,” he said.
He disclosed that several projects, including water supply schemes in rural communities and new road networks, would soon be inaugurated as part of activities marking the President’s anniversary in office.
“Mr. President has touched virtually all the satellite towns… more roads will be constructed to open up our communities,” Wike said.
The minister also charged incoming area council chairmen to focus on governance and address pressing challenges, particularly in the education sector.
“It cannot continue that our children are at home because of strikes. Education is a first priority… without it, there cannot be development,” he emphasised.
Earlier, President of the FCT Stakeholders Assembly, Dr. Aliyu Daniel Bakna Kwali, commended the minister for ongoing reforms and infrastructural development, while presenting key demands including increased representation for the FCT at the National Assembly and the creation of additional area councils.
The event, which opened with remarks from former Federal Commissioner Dr. Aliyu Almakura Abdulkadir, underscored a new era of collaborative governance, with the traditional institution positioning itself as a central pillar in the FCT’s drive for political and economic expansion.
