Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria — Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has pledged to work closely with newly elected local government leaders in the nation’s capital, saying political differences will not stand in the way of development.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is the administrative region that houses Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria. It is governed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration, which oversees six local government councils known as Area Councils.
On Wednesday, the minister hosted the six newly elected Area Council chairmen at his office in Abuja. The council leaders visited to receive their certificates of return ahead of their official swearing-in scheduled for June.
During the meeting, Wike said his administration would cooperate fully with the incoming local government leaders to ensure that governance in the capital continues without disruption. He described the type of collaboration he expects as a “rainbow coalition,” meaning a partnership that includes officials from different political parties working toward common goals.
“Congratulations to all the newly elected chairmen. You have earned this opportunity through hard work, and we are grateful for the chance to serve alongside you,” Wike told the leaders.
The minister stressed that effective administration of the capital requires cooperation beyond political divisions. He noted that since he assumed office as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, his administration has maintained a practice of working with leaders and stakeholders regardless of party affiliation.
“No matter the party, what is important is that we work together.
“Since I came as minister, we have always worked together in the city, and that is why we have continued to achieve results,” Wike said.
Okay News reports that the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections held on Friday, February 21, 2026, determined leadership for six councils that provide local governance and services across the territory.
Wike also acknowledged that candidates aligned with Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, received support from the administration during the elections. However, he said that politicians from other parties who support the government’s development agenda will also be included in governance efforts.
“Candidates who supported Mr President received our support, and we thank God they emerged victorious.
“Even those from other parties who support the President will be part of what we call a rainbow coalition in the FCT,” he explained.
The minister urged the incoming chairmen to prepare seriously for the responsibilities of office. He assured them that once they are sworn in, the Federal Capital Territory Administration will begin working with them immediately to advance development in their respective councils.
“By the time you are sworn in, we will begin to work together to move the councils forward.
“The support given to you by Mr President means you must reciprocate by giving good governance to the people,” he stated.
Wike also praised the outgoing council chairmen for their service and wished them success in their future endeavours.
In the February elections, Nigeria’s ruling political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), won five of the six Area Council chairmanship positions in the Federal Capital Territory. The party secured victories in Abuja Municipal Area Council, Abaji, Bwari, Kwali, and Kuje.
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won the remaining chairmanship seat in Gwagwalada Area Council.
The newly elected chairmen are expected to assume office in June after their formal swearing-in ceremony.
