FCT stakeholders unite for inclusive democratic future

The original inhabitants of Abuja, under the aegis of the FCT Stakeholders Assembly, have made a heartfelt appeal for unity and collaboration among indigenes, residents, and leaders of both local and international organisations. Their goal: to uphold democratic values and safeguard the rights of citizens within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to vote and be voted for.

This call for cohesion was the central message at the Assembly’s inaugural meeting, which focused on fostering a united approach to addressing the social, political, and developmental challenges confronting communities across the FCT’s 858 districts.

In his address, the President of the Assembly, Dr Aliyu Daniel Kwali, highlighted Abuja’s distinctive demographic landscape, stressing that its diversity necessitates a cooperative strategy to unlock the full democratic potential of the territory. He maintained that such synergy would benefit both the original inhabitants and other residents of the FCT.

The Stakeholders Assembly reaffirmed its dedication to inclusive engagement, pledging to work with all stakeholders regardless of status, origin, or affiliation. It urged community leaders, policymakers, and development partners to engage in meaningful dialogue and forge partnerships aimed at building a more united, equitable, and prosperous FCT.

Expressing optimism, the Assembly encouraged all segments of the FCT community to embrace the call for unity, thereby laying the foundation for an inclusive democratic system rooted in equality, justice, and mutual respect.

Dr Kwali also pledged the unflinching support of the FCT’s original inhabitants and residents to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, in their shared mission to promote national economic growth and enhance the welfare of Nigerians.

He lauded the FCT Minister’s recent milestone—the launch of a ₦50 billion potable water project serving all satellite towns within the territory—as a transformative step towards improved living standards.

However, Dr Kwali urged the minister to turn urgent attention to the education sector, in his proactive manner, to secure the future of the younger generation.

The event drew key government officials, including Hon. Abubakar Umar Abdullah, Chairman of Abaji Area Council; Hon. Sulaiman Abdullahi Ango, Mandate Secretary for Agricultural Services; Mr. Lawrence Bitrus Garki, Mandate Secretary for Area Council and Chieftaincy Affairs; and Hon. Musa Dikko, FCT Commissioner at the Public Complaints Commission, among others.

Niyi Lawal