The monarchs also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing infrastructural projects across the FCT, particularly in satellite towns, while calling for greater inclusion and recognition of indigenous communities within the capital territory.

Speaking during an appreciation visit by the FCT Stakeholders Assembly at the FCDA Conference Hall in Abuja, the Ona of Abaji and Chairman of the FCT Council of Chiefs, Dr. Adamu Baba Yunusa, praised the administration for improving the welfare of traditional rulers and approving key projects, including the construction of a new palace in Abaji.

The traditional leaders said the honour bestowed on Wike reflects his “visionary leadership” and commitment to FCT development, citing reforms that have improved the status and welfare of traditional institutions as well as the approval for the new Ona Palace.

They also presented a list of requests to the minister, including the provision of 17 tractors—one for each chiefdom—to support agriculture and strengthen food security in rural communities.

In addition, they called for the upgrading of historically significant chiefdoms such as Garki and Jiwa to higher traditional status.

Responding, Wike assured the traditional rulers that their interests would be protected, approving several of their requests on the spot.

He directed the Mandate Secretary for Agriculture to ensure the provision of tractors to all 17 chiefdoms and instructed the Council of Chiefs to submit names for consideration in the creation of third-class traditional stools, stressing that the process must follow due consultation.

Wike also pledged to address issues relating to land certificates based on verified data submitted by stakeholders.

He said, “I’m now from here. For me to be the Light of Abuja, I must do everything to protect your interest.”

The minister further stressed the importance of strong political representation for the FCT at the National Assembly, warning against the election of weak lawmakers who cannot effectively advocate for the territory.

He noted that experience and influence were crucial in legislative representation, urging stakeholders to make informed choices ahead of the 2027 elections.

Wike expressed concern that previous representatives had not adequately articulated the needs of the FCT, describing such shortcomings as a setback to development efforts.

“You elected a senator you can’t see… a senator who cannot even organise the indigenous community to ask what their needs are,” he said.

He cautioned that repeating such mistakes would further limit the territory’s access to development opportunities and policy influence.

The minister also endorsed Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda, while linking political support for the current administration to ongoing development projects in the FCT.

He noted that despite receiving minimal electoral support in 2023, President Bola Tinubu’s administration had continued to deliver key infrastructure across the territory.

“In 2023, most of you did not give Mr. President up to six per cent, yet he has done so much for you… now that you know, do not make that mistake again,” he said.

Wike further disclosed that additional projects, including rural water schemes and road construction, would soon be commissioned as part of activities marking the President’s anniversary in office.

He also urged incoming area council chairmen to prioritise governance, particularly in education, stressing that uninterrupted schooling is essential for development.

Earlier, the President of the FCT Stakeholders Assembly, Dr. Aliyu Daniel Bakna Kwali, commended Wike for ongoing reforms and infrastructure development, while also calling for increased FCT representation at the National Assembly and the creation of additional area councils.

The event highlighted growing collaboration between traditional institutions and the FCT administration in driving political inclusion and development across the capital territory.