Wike bags ‘Light of Abuja’ title from FCT rulers

Traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have conferred the chieftaincy title of “Hasken Abuja” (Light of Abuja) on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in recognition of his contributions to infrastructure development and reforms across the territory.

The monarchs also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing developmental strides in the FCT, particularly in satellite towns, while urging greater inclusion and recognition of indigenous communities.

The honour was announced during an appreciation visit by the FCT Stakeholders Assembly at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) conference hall in Abuja.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional institution, the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the FCT Council of Chiefs, Adamu Baba Yunusa, commended the administration for initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and status of traditional rulers.

He cited projects such as the approval for the construction of a new palace in Abaji, enhanced welfare packages, and broader reforms that have strengthened the role of traditional institutions in governance.

As part of their demands, the traditional rulers requested the provision of 17 tractors—one for each chiefdom—to support agricultural production and boost food security in rural communities.

They also called for the elevation of historically significant chiefdoms, including Garki and Jiwa, to higher traditional status.

Responding, Wike assured the stakeholders of his commitment to protecting the interests of indigenous residents.

He directed the Mandate Secretary for Agriculture to provide tractors to all 17 chiefdoms and asked the Council of Chiefs to submit recommendations for the creation of additional third-class traditional stools.

He also pledged to address outstanding land certificate issues based on submissions from stakeholders, reiterating his alignment with the people of the FCT.

On politics, Wike urged residents to prioritise competence and experience when electing representatives, warning that weak leadership at the National Assembly could undermine the territory’s interests.

He stressed the need for strong representation to push for greater legislative influence, including the expansion of senatorial seats for the FCT.

The minister criticised past representation, saying it failed to adequately articulate the needs of the people, and cautioned against repeating similar mistakes in future elections. He also expressed support for Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda.

Wike further linked political alignment with development outcomes, noting that despite limited electoral support in 2023, the Tinubu administration has continued to deliver key infrastructure projects across the FCT.

He disclosed that several projects, including rural water schemes and road networks, would soon be inaugurated to mark the President’s anniversary in office, adding that more roads would be constructed to improve access in underserved communities.

The minister also charged incoming area council chairmen to prioritise governance and address pressing challenges, particularly in the education sector, warning against prolonged school closures due to strikes.

Earlier, the President of the FCT Stakeholders Assembly, Aliyu Daniel Bakna Kwali, commended the minister’s reforms and infrastructure drive, while presenting key demands such as increased representation at the National Assembly and the creation of additional area councils.

The event, which also featured remarks by former Federal Commissioner Aliyu Almakura Abdulkadir, highlighted growing collaboration between government and traditional institutions in shaping the FCT’s political and economic development.