The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed Abuja’s status as one of Nigeria’s safest cities, attributing the capital’s calm to deliberate security efforts and the commitment of residents to peaceful coexistence.
Delivering his Independence Day anniversary message on Wednesday, Wike praised Abuja residents for consciously promoting harmony, even in the face of occasional security challenges.
“Residents have remained intentional about living together in peace and harmony despite a few distractions,” Wike said. “Consequently, the FCT has become one of the most peaceful places to reside in the entire country. This is not only due to the security measures we have put in place, but also because residents themselves reject insecurity and embrace peace.”
While commending this record, the Minister warned against complacency, urging citizens to stay vigilant, report suspicious movements, and support security agencies.
He also highlighted the FCT’s upcoming Area Council elections in February 2026, reminding residents that the capital would once again set the pace for the nation’s political calendar. Wike called for orderly campaigns and the election of leaders with vision, capacity, and genuine concern for the people.
“Come February 2026, the FCT will kick off Nigeria’s election season. I implore residents to campaign peacefully, and when the time comes, to turn out en masse and vote for leaders with proven capacity to deliver development and prosperity,” he said.
However, his message comes in the shadow of tragedy, following the death of 29-year-old Arise Television reporter Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who fatally jumped from her apartment’s third floor while attempting to escape armed robbers on Monday.
Wike described her death as “tragic and unacceptable,” pledging full support for police investigations and assuring that her case underscores the need for unrelenting vigilance, even in a city regarded as one of Nigeria’s safest.
