The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has publicly dismissed former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as a “serial contestant and loser,” predicting he will still run for office in 2031, during a recent inspection of major road projects in Abuja. Wike made the remarks while responding to Atiku’s criticism that the current administration has failed to deliver any meaningful development. He emphasized that the FCT administration remains focused on infrastructure and governance, regardless of political commentary.
Speaking at the site of ongoing road upgrades, Wike challenged Atiku to compare the state of Abuja during his tenure as Vice-President with the current progress. “Let him compare FCT now and when he was Vice-President. Can he honestly say what we have now is the same as then?” he asked. The minister stressed that governance must continue uninterrupted, even amid political campaigns. “The election will come, but people must work. Contractors are not part of the election,” he stated firmly.
Wike provided updates on key infrastructure projects, highlighting the near-completion of the Airport–Kuje road. He confirmed that one section of the bridge will open for public use next week, with the entire project expected to be handed over before the end of May. Similarly, the first phase of the Kuje–Gwagwalada road dualisation, covering approximately seven kilometres, is also set for completion by the same deadline. The minister expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work, noting that these developments will significantly improve connectivity in the FCT.
He added that the road projects are part of a broader plan to transform Kuje into a major residential and economic hub. “Very soon, Kuje will no longer be a satellite town. People will move there, build houses, and the pressure on the city will reduce,” Wike said. These improvements are expected to attract more residents and investors, easing congestion in central Abuja and boosting economic activity in the region.
Addressing allegations from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that the FCT Administration interfered with their planned convention by targeting a venue, Wike dismissed the claims as baseless. “I don’t even know where that place is. There was no interference from anybody. These people should just stop looking for sympathy,” he said. He urged the party to produce evidence of any formal communication regarding public facility use, insisting that due process must be followed.
Wike reaffirmed that political activities will not hinder development, with most ongoing projects scheduled for completion before January. “Our focus is clear: deliver projects, improve lives, and keep Abuja moving,” he concluded. The FCT’s infrastructure push continues to shape the capital’s future, with residents and investors set to benefit from improved roads and urban planning.
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