Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has launched a sharp attack on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a habitual presidential contender who repeatedly falls short at the polls.
Wike’s remarks came on Thursday during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja, where he dismissed Atiku’s criticism of the current administration as unfounded and out of touch with realities on ground.
He argued that visible development within the FCT contradicts claims that nothing meaningful has been achieved.
Taking a swipe at the former vice president, the minister said Nigerians would not take such comments seriously, insisting that Atiku’s long history of contesting elections without success undermines his credibility.
Wike also challenged Atiku to draw comparisons between the condition of Abuja during his time in office and the present state of the capital city, maintaining that the difference is evident in the scale of ongoing and completed projects.
He stressed that governance must not be derailed by political rhetoric, noting that contractors handling key projects are focused on delivery timelines rather than election cycles.
According to him, development efforts will continue uninterrupted despite political distractions.
Providing updates on major infrastructure works, the minister disclosed that the Airport–Kuje road project is nearing completion, with part of the bridge expected to open for use within days.
He assured residents that the entire project would be completed and handed over before the end of May.
Similarly, Wike said the first phase of the Kuje–Gwagwalada road dualisation, covering about seven kilometres, is also on track for completion within the same timeframe, expressing satisfaction with both the pace and quality of work.
He noted that the road projects are strategically designed to improve connectivity between satellite towns and the city centre, reduce congestion, and stimulate economic growth.
In particular, he projected that Kuje would soon evolve into a major residential and commercial hub.
Addressing allegations by the African Democratic Congress that the FCT Administration attempted to frustrate its convention, 
Wike denied any involvement, stating that no such interference occurred and challenging the party to provide evidence.
The minister further revealed that a significant portion of ongoing infrastructure projects, estimated at over 80 percent, would be completed before January, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to delivering impactful development across the territory.
