By Olawumi Oyehan
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence that ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja will influence voters’ choices ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike spoke during an inspection of the ongoing road project in the Gwawalada area of the FCT, where he commended the contractor, Gilmo Engineering, for the progress made on the project.
The minister said the project was designed to improve transportation and living conditions for residents of the densely populated area.
He expressed optimism that the contractor would complete the work within the agreed timeframe, reportedly by December.
Wike said the excitement displayed by residents during the inspection demonstrated the importance of infrastructure delivery to the people. According to him, governance should ultimately improve the lives of citizens and make them happy.
He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu for development projects in the FCT, saying the administration had provided significant backing for the ongoing infrastructure programme.
Speaking about the 2027 elections, Wike linked the public response to government projects with electoral support for Tinubu and other candidates backed by the administration.
He said residents who benefit from the projects would be able to make their choices at the polls.
The minister rejected the suggestion that electoral support for the administration could be described as the result of rigging. He argued that delivering projects and responding to residents’ needs constituted the basis for the political support he expects.
On preparations for the 2027 campaigns, Wike said political parties still had several months to organise their structures and mobilise supporters. He noted that campaign activities were yet to reach the intensity witnessed during the 2023 election season.
Wike disclosed that he would soon inaugurate the campaign team for President Tinubu in the FCT and lead the campaign on behalf of the president in the territory. He said he would subsequently return to his responsibilities as FCT minister.
The minister reaffirmed his support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform and President Tinubu, while expressing confidence in the administration’s ongoing projects.
His comments came as the FCT continues to witness renewed road construction and other infrastructure activities across several communities.