2026 NEW YEAR MESSAGE BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY (FCT), HIS EXCELLENCY, BARR. EZENWO NYESOM WIKE, CON, TO RESIDENTS OF THE FCT

2026 NEW YEAR MESSAGE BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY (FCT), HIS EXCELLENCY, BARR. EZENWO NYESOM WIKE, CON, TO RESIDENTS OF THE FCT

Dear residents of the Federal Capital Territory, it gives me immense pleasure to address you on the first day of the year.

Let me begin by acknowledging and appreciating the cooperation of residents and friends of the FCT in the previous year. Great strides were made, massive developments accomplished, and seemingly insurmountable obstacles overcome—all thanks to your cooperation.

As we usher in the dawn of a new year, on behalf of the FCT Administration, I extend my warmest greetings of a Happy New Year to the resilient and vibrant residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

It is my earnest hope that this year, our Administration will receive more support from residents that will galvanize our plans and projections for the FCT into tangible developments, projects, and facilities that will greatly enhance the quality of life for all residents of the Federal Capital Territory, regardless of their social status.

As an Administration, we have already laid the groundwork for projects and programs that will trigger positive developments in critical sectors of society, such as education, health, the judiciary, transportation, agriculture, and security. We therefore look forward to commissioning rehabilitated schools, roads, bridges, health facilities, transportation hubs, facilities for the judiciary, security infrastructure, and programmes that will impact FCT residents positively.

This year, we shall not just be commemorating the third anniversary of the Administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, but plan to mark it by showcasing tangible developments aimed at transforming the lives of residents favourably.

Through the President's Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Capital Territory has witnessed unprecedented development across territory; from the Abuja Municipal to far flung areas such as Abaji, Kuje and Kwali. We cannot thank Mr. President enough for this, even as we solicit for more support as we embark on more projects for the people.

As we look forward to a bright and prosperous new year, it is pertinent to remember that virtues of diligence, discipline, and determination are needed for the realization of our collective goals. I therefore encourage residents to imbibe these very important virtues and continue to be law-abiding as we navigate the year together.

The year 2026 is particularly significant for us because it marks the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Federal Capital Territory. The golden jubilee celebration of the FCT is a testament to the vision of our founding fathers, and to the resilience of Nigerians who have continuously demonstrated the resolve to coexist in peace and unity these past 50 years.

The new year is also a politically vital one for residents of the Federal Capital, and in fact, all Nigerians. In a few weeks, Area Council elections will kick off in the six Area Councils of the Territory, and eligible voters are expected to exercise their rights to choose their leaders at the local government level. I urge you all to use your votes wisely.

On our part, the Federal Capital Territory Administration is committed to ensuring that the exercise is done in a free and fair atmosphere devoid of violence and illegalities.

Later in the year, campaigns are expected to begin nationwide ahead of Nigeria's general elections in 2027. Being the Centre of Government, the Federal Capital Territory would witness a beehive of activities around this period. Be assured that the FCT Administration will continue to provide an environment conducive for the orderly hosting of all political events preceding and relating to the general elections as well.