Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu has pledged to champion the Abuja Residents Empowerment Bill if elected as the Senator for the Federal Capital Territory in the 2027 general elections. In a statement shared on her verified X handle on Sunday, Yesufu assured residents of the FCT that they deserve fair returns for their hard work and contributions to the nation’s capital. She emphasized that the proposed legislation aims to address systemic economic and social challenges faced by Abuja residents, particularly in housing, employment, and access to financial resources.
Yesufu, who is also the co-convener of the Bring Back Our Girls Movement, outlined key provisions of the bill, including mandatory quotas for youth and women-led businesses in government procurement contracts. This measure, she explained, is designed to promote inclusive economic growth and ensure that local entrepreneurs are not sidelined in public sector opportunities. The bill also includes a Rent Control component, which she says will protect residents from exploitative and sudden rent increases, a common issue in the capital’s housing market.
Another critical feature of the proposed legislation is the elimination of double taxation, a policy she believes will ease the financial burden on ordinary citizens. Yesufu also highlighted the Skills Empowerment spending component, which would allocate funds to provide practical, job-oriented training to Abuja residents. This initiative, she argued, would bridge the gap between education and employment, empowering people with marketable skills.
The bill further mandates that a portion of Abuja’s tax revenue be directed toward micro-loan programs to support small and medium enterprises. Yesufu stressed that this access to capital is essential for fostering local entrepreneurship and reducing unemployment. She believes these measures collectively represent a comprehensive roadmap for economic justice and resident empowerment in the FCT.
Her announcement has sparked discussions among residents and civil society groups, with many expressing hope that such policies could transform Abuja into a more equitable and livable city. As the 2027 elections approach, Yesufu’s proposal positions her as a candidate focused on grassroots development and policy-driven change. Her commitment to resident empowerment could influence voter decisions in the FCT, where economic hardship and housing insecurity remain pressing concerns.
Looking ahead, the Abuja Residents Empowerment Bill may set a precedent for how future policymakers address urban development and social equity in Nigeria’s capital.
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