Traditional rulers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have conferred the chieftaincy title of “Hasken Abuja” (Light of Abuja) on the Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, in recognition of what they described as his role in advancing infrastructure and strengthening traditional institutions in the territory.
The honour was bestowed on Thursday during an appreciation visit by the FCT Stakeholders Assembly at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) Conference Hall in Abuja, where the monarchs also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing development projects across the FCT, particularly in satellite communities.
Chairman of the FCT Council of Chiefs and Ona of Abaji, Dr. Adamu Baba Yunusa, said the title reflected the traditional institution’s acknowledgement of reforms that have improved the welfare and status of traditional rulers.
He cited the approval for the construction of a new Ona Palace in Abaji, as well as measures to upgrade traditional institutions, as part of efforts that have restored dignity to the system.
While expressing appreciation, the traditional rulers called for greater inclusion of indigenous communities in governance structures and development initiatives.
Among their requests were the provision of tractors to support agrarian communities, the elevation of historically significant chiefdoms such as Garki and Jiwa, and increased representation for the FCT at the National Assembly.
Responding, Wike said the administration would consider the requests, directing the Mandate Secretary for Agriculture to facilitate the provision of tractors to the chiefdoms, while urging the Council of Chiefs to nominate candidates for the creation of additional traditional stools.
“It is not in my position to write who will be… you people should do the right thing,” he said.
The minister also pledged to address concerns relating to land documentation, particularly certificates of occupancy, based on submissions made by stakeholders.
Wike, however, linked development outcomes in the FCT to political representation, stressing the need for experienced lawmakers capable of advancing the territory’s interests at the National Assembly.
“The Senate is not an all-comers’ game. Experience matters, ranking matters… you must have a strong voice there,” he said.
He expressed concern over past representation, urging stakeholders to make more strategic electoral choices in order to strengthen the FCT’s voice in national policymaking.
The minister further noted that despite limited electoral support in the 2023 elections, the Federal Government had continued to invest in infrastructure across the FCT, including roads and water projects in satellite towns.
“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.
According to him, several projects would be commissioned as part of activities marking the President’s anniversary in office, with a focus on expanding access to basic infrastructure.
Earlier, President of the FCT Stakeholders Assembly, Dr. Aliyu Daniel Bakna Kwali, described the minister’s performance as impactful, while reiterating demands for structural reforms, including additional senatorial districts, more area councils and greater federal representation for the FCT.
The event underscored the evolving role of traditional institutions in governance discourse in the FCT, as stakeholders seek closer collaboration with government in addressing development and representation challenges.
