FCT Indigenous Residents Name Wike ‘Magician’
The indigenous residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have conferred the title of “Wike Abowoweyi,” meaning “The Magician of Our Time,” on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in recognition of his contributions to infrastructure development of the nation’s capital.
This was revealed during the commissioning of the Saburi road project in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), on Saturday, where residents lauded Wike’s impactful approach to governance.
They cited the timely completion of key projects, including roads and security infrastructure, as evidence of his commitment to transforming their communities.
The title is an addition to Wike’s list of traditional titles since his assumption of office as FCT Minister.
He was previously named ‘Barden Bwari’ (protector or defender of Bwari people) by the Etsu of Bwari, Ibrahim Yaro and ‘Sarkin Yaki’ by the Aguma of Gwagwalada, Mohammed Magaji.
During the commissioning of the 5km road project in Saburi, Wike unveiled plans to commence reconstruction of the Dei-Dei-Life Camp Road in February and complete it within a year.
“Mr. President has directed that this Dei-Dei Market Road be reconstructed to Life Camp so the market can regain its international standard. I assure you, in the next one month, we will flag it off, and by this time next year, we’ll be back to commission it,” Wike stated.
The minister also revealed that streetlights, which were not part of the project’s original plan, will now be installed to improve safety and aesthetics.
Wike commended the leadership of AMAC Chairman, Hon. Christopher Maikalangu. The minister lauded his efforts in executing projects that directly impact the community.
“Your chairman has shown capacity, and when a young man washes his hands well, he eats with elders. It would be unfair not to reward his effort,” Wike said, while promising to include the Zaudna to Kagini Road project in the 2025 budget.
He stressed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to equitable development across all area councils in Abuja.
“We are not concentrating development only in the city. President Tinubu has directed that every community must feel the impact of governance,” he stated.
The minister also reiterated plans to renovate schools and improve education for children in the area and urged residents to remain patient as the government works to address longstanding challenges.
“Things have been tough, but with your support and patience, this administration will deliver a better Nigeria,” he added.
Earlier, Maikalangu praised Wike’s exceptional commitment to rural and urban development in the FCT.
He described the Minister as a “God-sent leader” who has brought unprecedented progress to AMAC communities.
“On behalf of the people of AMAC, I express our deepest gratitude for delivering this beautiful Saburi access road in record time. Bulldozers and caterpillars moved in immediately after the flag-off, dispelling any doubts about the project’s completion,” Maikalangu said.
Maikalangu highlighted the economic boost brought by the road project to the Gwagwa Ward and applauded the approval of police stations in Saburi and Takushara, which he said would enhance security and improve residents’ quality of life.
However, he appealed for further intervention and requested the construction of access roads to Zaudna, Kaba, and Kagini, which have been neglected for decades.a
“These communities require two bridges before road construction can begin, and I urge the Minister to come to their aid,” he said.
Maikalangu also called for additional attention to AMAC, noting its large population and numerous communities.
FCT Indigenous Residents Name Wike ‘Magician’ is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
