The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has officially elevated the traditional ruler of Kwali, Luka Ayedoo Nizassan III, to the rank of a First-Class Chief. The announcement was made during the Minister’s thank-you visit to Kwali Area Council on Monday, March 9, 2026.
Addressing a large and enthusiastic crowd of residents, community leaders, and political stakeholders, the Minister said the decision to upgrade the Etsu Kwali’s stool was based on the monarch’s leadership qualities and his commitment to peace, unity, and cultural preservation in the area. He also praised the royal father for supporting the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and for promoting stability within the local community.
According to the Minister, the Federal Government recognises the importance of traditional institutions in strengthening grassroots governance and fostering social harmony. He explained that the elevation of the Etsu Kwali reflects the government’s appreciation for the monarch’s contributions to the development of the community and the wider Federal Capital Territory.
During the event, the Minister also announced that the FCT Administration would construct a modern palace for the upgraded traditional ruler. He stated that the new palace would reflect the importance of the stool and serve as a cultural symbol for the people of Kwali.
He assured residents that the government would continue to honour its commitments to the community. The Minister also revealed that President Tinubu had expressed appreciation for the support shown by the people of Kwali and intends to visit the area in the future to personally thank the royal father and residents.
The occasion also provided the Minister with an opportunity to commend the outgoing Chairman of Kwali Area Council, Hon. Danladi Chiya, for his leadership and dedication to grassroots development. He also congratulated the Chairman-elect, Mr Nuhu Daniel Kwali, and encouraged him to continue implementing policies that improve residents’ lives.
In his remarks, Hon. Danladi Chiya thanked the Minister for his continued support of the council and highlighted the political milestone achieved in the recent Area Council elections. According to him, it was the first time since the creation of the Kwali Area Council that a political party won both the chairmanship and all ten councillor seats in a single election.
Chiya also appealed to the Minister to assist with the reconstruction of a critical bridge linking Kwali to Kuje Area Council and neighbouring Nasarawa State, noting that the project would improve connectivity and economic activity in the region.
In his goodwill message, the Etsu Kwali described the Minister’s visit as historic, stating that it was the first time an FCT Minister had visited the council to thank residents for their electoral participation. He expressed appreciation for the peaceful conduct of the recent elections and pledged continued support for development initiatives.
Chairman-elect Nuhu Daniel Kwali also acknowledged the infrastructural projects implemented by the FCT Administration, noting that they contributed to increased public confidence during the election. He reiterated the community’s request for a new palace for the traditional ruler—a promise the Minister reaffirmed during the visit.
The event concluded with residents celebrating the elevation of the Etsu Kwali and expressing optimism that the new palace project and other development initiatives will further strengthen growth and unity within the council.
