Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Thursday fired back at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a “serial contestant and loser,” while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering key road projects in Abuja by the end of May.
Wike’s remarks came in response to Atiku’s criticism that the current administration has not delivered tangible benefits to Nigerians.
Speaking during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja, Wike dismissed the claims, insisting that visible development across the FCT contradicts such assertions.
“Atiku is a serial failure. He is a serial contestant and loser and I am sure that in 2031, he will still contest. Nigerians would be laughing at such a person making that kind of statement that nothing positive has been done,” he said.
The minister challenged the former vice president to compare the current state of Abuja with what existed during his time in office.
“Let him compare FCT now and when he was Vice President. Can he honestly say what we have now is the same as then?” Wike queried.
He stressed that governance would not be derailed by political distractions, noting that project delivery remains the administration’s priority.
“The election will come, but people must work. Contractors are not part of the election,” he added.
On infrastructure, Wike assured residents that major road projects linking satellite towns would be completed on schedule to improve connectivity and ease congestion in the capital.
“From Airport Junction to Kuje, one part of the bridge is almost completed. Before the end of May, the entire job will be handed over,” he said.
He also disclosed that the first phase of the Kuje–Gwagwalada dualisation project, covering about seven kilometres, would be delivered within the same timeframe.
“I am happy with the progress, we are satisfied with the quality of jobs being delivered,” Wike noted.
According to him, the ongoing projects are set to transform Kuje into a major residential and commercial hub, reducing pressure on the city centre.
“Very soon, Kuje will no longer be a satellite town. People will move there, build houses, and the pressure on the city will reduce,” he said.
The minister also dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress that the FCT Administration attempted to frustrate its convention.
“I don’t even know where that place is, there was no interference from anybody. These people should just stop looking for sympathy,” he said.
He challenged the party to provide evidence of any formal request regarding the use of the Eagle Square, insisting that due process was not followed.
Wike further assured that political activities would not slow down project execution, revealing that over 80 per cent of planned infrastructure works would be completed before January.
“Our focus is clear—deliver projects, improve lives, and keep Abuja moving,” he said.
The inspection tour forms part of ongoing efforts by the FCT Administration to ensure timely delivery and quality execution of infrastructure projects across the territory.
