…Reveals He Will Still Contest 2031 Presidential Race
Olayiwola Matthew
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a perennial election contender who has repeatedly fallen short at the polls and suggesting he may still seek the presidency in 2031.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday during an inspection of ongoing road construction projects across the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
His comments followed Atiku’s recent criticism of the current administration, in which the former vice president alleged that governance has not significantly improved the welfare of Nigerians.
Responding, Wike dismissed the claims, insisting that visible infrastructure development in the FCT contradicts such assertions. He also questioned Atiku’s political record, drawing comparisons between the state of Abuja during his time in office and the ongoing transformation projects currently being executed.
The FCT minister was quoted as saying that Atiku remains “a serial contestant and loser,” adding that Nigerians would continue to question repeated attempts at the presidency without success.
He further stated that governance must not be disrupted by political contestations, stressing that development projects will continue regardless of election activities.
Wike also assured residents that key infrastructure projects are progressing steadily, particularly road networks connecting satellite communities. He disclosed that the Airport–Kuje road project is nearing completion, with sections of the bridge expected to be opened for public use next week, while the entire project is projected to be delivered before the end of May.


