The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has commended residents of Gwagwalada Area Council for the peaceful conduct of the recent Area Council elections, describing the exercise as a demonstration of democratic maturity and civic responsibility.
The Minister made the remarks during a thank-you visit to the council on March 11, 2026, during which he conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation to residents for their support and participation in the electoral process.
Addressing community members, political stakeholders, and traditional leaders, Wike praised the elections’ orderly conduct and acknowledged the impressive voter turnout in the council. He said the peaceful environment and enthusiastic participation of residents reflected the people’s commitment to democracy and responsible governance.
During the visit, the Minister also officially acknowledged the victory of the Chairman-elect of Gwagwalada Area Council, Mohammed Kasim, noting that his emergence represented the collective will of the electorate.
Wike described the chairman-elect as a hardworking and dedicated leader and assured him of the FCT Administration’s readiness to collaborate with his council in delivering infrastructure and development projects for residents.
According to the Minister, governance in the FCT should rise above partisan interests and focus on development and service to the people. He explained that despite political differences, the administration remains committed to working with elected officials from all parties to promote progress across the territory.
He added that the growing cooperation among political actors in the FCT reflects what he described as a broad coalition focused on development rather than party divisions.
As part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions, the Minister also announced the creation of a Third-Class chieftaincy title for the Gbagyi people in Gwagwalada. He said the decision was aimed at recognising the cultural heritage of indigenous communities and enhancing the role of traditional leadership in promoting peace and social harmony.
In addition to institutional recognition, Wike addressed the urgent need for improved access to basic services in some communities. Responding to concerns raised by residents of Zuba, he approved an immediate intervention to provide potable water for the town.
The Minister acknowledged that the lack of a reliable water supply had caused hardship for residents and assured them that the administration would take swift action to resolve the issue.
He also offered guidance to the chairman-elect on governance priorities, advising him to focus on practical, high-impact projects that deliver measurable benefits to the community. According to Wike, effective leadership requires careful planning and consultation with residents to identify the most pressing needs.
The Minister further emphasised the importance of local representation in politics, noting that future leadership choices should reflect individuals who are familiar with the community and understand the challenges residents face.
He praised the enthusiastic reception he received during the visit, describing it as one of the most vibrant gatherings since the start of his thank-you tour across the councils. According to him, the large turnout demonstrated the community’s commitment to development and strong civic engagement.
Wike also assured residents that he would brief President Tinubu on the outcome of the visit and the continued support of the people of Gwagwalada.
In his remarks, the traditional ruler of Gwagwalada, Mohammed Magaji, commended the Minister for personally visiting the council to thank residents. He described the gesture as unusual and appreciated the government’s efforts in ensuring a peaceful election.
The royal father also praised the recent upgrade of traditional rulers across the FCT, noting that the reform had been long-awaited by many traditional leaders in the territory.
Speaking at the event, Chairman-elect Mohammed Kasim expressed appreciation for the Minister’s support. He pledged his commitment to working closely with the FCT Administration to deliver meaningful development for the council.
He noted that residents of Gwagwalada have been encouraged by the infrastructure projects implemented across the territory and assured the Minister of continued cooperation.
Kasim also appealed for government intervention in several infrastructure projects in the council, including the dualization of the Gwagwalada–Dobi Road, also known as Specialist Road, the Dukpa Road and bridge project, the Ikwa Road, and the 13-kilometre Zuba–Shenenga road, which often becomes difficult to use during the rainy season
.Observers say the Minister’s visit and the commitments made during the event are expected to strengthen collaboration between the FCT Administration and local authorities, while accelerating development in Gwagwalada and surrounding communities.
