FCT Minster, Nyesom Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has praised the people of Tunga Madaki community in Abuja for their cooperation and support towards government development efforts.
Wike gave the commendation during the commissioning of the newly constructed Airport Road, also known as Bill Clinton Drive, linking the area to Tunga Madaki Community. The project was unveiled as part of activities marking the third anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
According to the FCT Minister, the community’s approach to negotiation and development serves as an example for other communities across the capital city. He noted that the residents focused on practical needs rather than placing excessive demands before allowing government projects to take place.
Wike explained that the road project was linked to the Federal Government’s plan to construct a second runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, a development that required engagement with communities affected by the project.
He revealed that Tunga Madaki residents only requested basic improvements that would directly benefit their people.
“They made two basic demands. They said they were willing to support the government and allow the construction to pass, but the government should help them. They wanted employment for their people and roads for their community,” Wike stated.
The Minister commended the community for its approach, saying it demonstrated cooperation between citizens and government. He urged other communities within the FCT to learn from the example set by Tunga Madaki.
“This community should be an example to other communities to learn from them and not for collecting money from people,” he said.
Wike stressed that the residents did not make unrealistic financial demands before accepting the project. He contrasted their position with situations where communities sometimes attach huge monetary conditions to government interventions.
“The community did not say if you don’t put one billion naira you won’t come there, if you don’t give youths money you will not come there, or if you don’t pay tithes to the Emirs and Chiefs you will not come there. They made basic demands,” he added.
The Minister also disclosed that the government had responded to the community’s requests by providing employment opportunities for some residents and delivering infrastructure that addresses their needs.
He described the completed road project as a reflection of the government’s commitment to extending development beyond central Abuja to satellite communities.
The Tunga Madaki project, according to Wike, highlights the importance of partnership between government authorities and local communities in achieving sustainable development across the Federal Capital Territory.
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