The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has openly declared his support for Christopher Maikalangu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate and incumbent Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), ahead of the council elections scheduled for 21 February 2026.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony for the construction of a key access road linking Bill Clinton Drive to the Tunga Madaki settlement, Wike praised Maikalangu’s commitment to infrastructure and grassroots advocacy, stating that he has been instrumental in pushing development across the capital city.
“And let me also say, my dear people, one good turn deserves another,” Wike said, addressing residents of Tunga Madaki. “Now that INEC has said area councils can go and campaign officially, you all know where we are heading to.”
Highlighting Maikalangu’s persistent efforts on behalf of the Tunga Madaki community—especially regarding compensation and development related to the airport’s second runway project—Wike encouraged locals to reward him at the polls.
“Now that you have a son, Maikalangu, he always keeps reminding me day and night, ‘Mr Minister, remember the people of Tunga Madaki,’” he noted. “Please, continue to press on Mr President so that we can make sure their request is fulfilled.”
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The minister went further to effectively campaign for Maikalangu’s re-election.
“I have handed over Maikalangu to you. So that, when the election will be held in February, by June, Mr President will be here to inaugurate this road and then we will all dance… and Mr Maikalangu will come and do the needful after the next election.”
In a veiled swipe at political opponents, Wike urged the community to reject politicians who have only emerged now that elections are approaching.
“Remember the man who remembered you during the rainy season,” he said. “All those who have nothing to offer you, tell them—where were they when nobody remembered you, not even to connect you to the airport you gave your land for?”
The access road project includes the construction of a four-span bridge and is expected to improve connectivity between inner communities and major federal infrastructure within the capital.
Wike’s endorsement of Maikalangu comes as political campaigns gather momentum in the six area councils of the FCT. The Minister’s backing is seen as a significant boost to the incumbent’s chances, given Wike’s political clout and ongoing involvement in FCT development projects.
