The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to delivering people-focused development and sustaining peace across the nation’s capital in 2026.
In his New Year message to residents, issued on January 1, the minister expressed appreciation for the cooperation and resilience shown by residents throughout the previous year, noting that their support made it possible for the administration to overcome major challenges and record visible progress.
According to Wike, the past year witnessed significant advancements across multiple sectors, driven by collaboration between the government and residents. He said the achievements recorded so far have strengthened the administration’s resolve to deliver even more impactful projects in the new year.
“As we begin a new year, I extend warm greetings to the hardworking and diverse people of the Federal Capital Territory. The progress we recorded in the last year was made possible by your cooperation, understanding, and shared commitment to the growth of our capital,” he said.
The minister stated that 2026 would be a year of intensified action, with the FCTA set to roll out and commission projects designed to directly improve living standards across the territory. He listed education, healthcare, transportation, security, agriculture, and the judiciary as priority sectors already receiving focused attention.
Wike explained that residents should expect the completion and commissioning of rehabilitated schools, upgraded health facilities, improved road networks, bridges, transport terminals, judicial infrastructure, and enhanced security installations across both urban and rural communities.
He added that the administration’s development agenda aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has brought unprecedented infrastructural expansion to the FCT, extending beyond the city centre to communities in Abaji, Kuje, Kwali and other satellite towns.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda has translated into real projects for our people. From the Abuja city centre to the most remote communities, development is visible. We remain grateful to Mr President for his unwavering support and will continue to seek further collaboration to do more for residents,” Wike said.
The minister noted that 2026 would also mark the third anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration, stressing that the FCTA plans to commemorate the milestone by showcasing completed projects rather than ceremonial celebrations.
He urged residents to uphold values such as discipline, diligence and respect for the law, describing them as essential ingredients for sustaining development and peaceful coexistence in the territory.
Wike also highlighted the historical importance of 2026, which marks 50 years since the creation of the Federal Capital Territory. He described the golden jubilee as a reminder of Nigeria’s unity and the vision behind building a capital city that belongs to all citizens, regardless of ethnic or religious background.
“The 50th anniversary of the FCT is a celebration of national unity, shared identity and collective resilience. It reflects the determination of Nigerians to live together in peace and harmony,” he said.
Turning to political developments, the minister described 2026 as a crucial year for democratic participation in the territory. He noted that Area Council elections would be held in the six councils of the FCT, urging eligible voters to participate peacefully and make informed choices at the polls.
Wike assured residents that the FCTA would work closely with relevant institutions to ensure that the elections are conducted in a transparent, credible and violence-free environment.
Later in the year, he said, political activities would intensify nationwide ahead of the 2027 general elections, adding that the FCT, as the seat of government, would host numerous political engagements.
He assured political parties, civil society groups and residents that the administration would provide a secure and orderly environment for all lawful political activities.
As he concluded his message, the minister called on residents to embrace unity, optimism and shared responsibility as the FCT enters a new chapter of growth.
“Let us move into 2026 with renewed determination, collective purpose and faith in our ability to build a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Federal Capital Territory,” Wike said.
He wished residents and their families a fulfilling, peaceful and prosperous New Year.
