The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, February 18, 2026, publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising his leadership record, governance achievements, and policy reforms during a major stakeholders’ engagement held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, FCT.
The event brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, senior government officials, business executives, and civil society representatives from across the country. Notable attendees included Dr. Umar Sani, Alhaji Mohammed Bello, Hon. Aisha Abubakar, Senator Philip Aduda, Hon. James Faleke, and Chief Sunday Akinlade. During his address, Wike characterized the Tinubu administration as reform-driven, pragmatic, and focused on long-term national stability, emphasizing that the president’s leadership has shown courage and foresight in implementing critical policy initiatives.
Wike observed that President Tinubu’s policies, while occasionally met with short-term resistance, are aimed at creating lasting institutional and economic stability. He highlighted the administration’s fiscal restructuring program, noting that reforms in revenue collection, subsidy rationalization, and government expenditure have begun to yield measurable improvements in federal finances. According to Wike, these measures are vital to strengthening the country’s macroeconomic stability and creating an enabling environment for private sector growth.
In his speech, Wike also highlighted several key infrastructural projects in the FCT, including the Abuja-Kaduna highway expansion, the Garki District road rehabilitation, and ongoing redevelopment efforts at the Jabi Lake Waterfront. He stated that these projects not only enhance urban mobility and connectivity but also create employment opportunities and attract both domestic and foreign investors. Wike also referenced the modernization of public service delivery, noting that federal institutions are now subject to stricter accountability standards and performance benchmarks, reflecting a broader commitment to efficient governance.
“The leadership exhibited by President Tinubu is bold, principled, and results-oriented,” Wike said. “We are witnessing a presidency that prioritizes national interest above political expediency, and that understands the importance of strategic planning and institutional reform. These are not decisions made for immediate political applause; they are investments in the nation’s future.”
The FCT Minister also emphasized Tinubu’s engagement with traditional and community leaders, highlighting initiatives designed to include local voices in governance processes. By fostering dialogue between federal authorities and grassroots stakeholders, the administration has reportedly improved transparency and community buy-in for projects across the FCT. Wike pointed out that such inclusive governance models strengthen civic trust and reduce potential conflicts over resource allocation and urban development.
Political analysts interpret Wike’s endorsement as part of a broader effort to consolidate political support for the president ahead of the 2027 general elections. As a former governor of Rivers State with extensive grassroots networks and influence in the South-South and Southeast regions, Wike’s public support is viewed as highly strategic. Observers suggest that his endorsement may encourage other political heavyweights and regional actors to rally behind Tinubu’s agenda, reducing internal friction within the ruling party and strengthening alliances ahead of upcoming electoral contests.
During the meeting, Wike also addressed the importance of national unity, policy consistency, and the need for collaborative governance. He urged political actors to prioritize reforms that strengthen institutions, promote economic growth, and enhance security, warning against partisan behavior that undermines the broader national interest. “True leadership requires making difficult decisions today to ensure that tomorrow’s Nigeria is stable, prosperous, and inclusive. Our political discourse must rise above short-term gains and focus on long-term national development,” he said.
