Abuja, Nigeria – Human‑rights activist Aisha Yesufu told residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Sunday that they will soon enjoy the “dividends of their sweat” through a new legislative proposal she plans to champion if elected as the FCT senator in 2027.
Speaking from her verified X account, Yesufu outlined the key provisions of the Abuja Residents Empowerment Bill, a comprehensive package designed to protect tenants, promote local entrepreneurship and expand skills training for the capital’s populace. The co‑convener of the BringBackOurGirls movement said the bill would embed quotas for youth‑ and women‑led enterprises in all government procurement contracts, thereby guaranteeing a fair share of public‑sector business for historically marginalised groups.
A central element of the proposal is rent‑control legislation aimed at curbing arbitrary rent increases that have strained many households in the city. “The rent‑control component of my bill will protect you from unjust rent hikes,” Yesufu wrote, adding that the legislation would also eliminate double taxation for residents and earmark funds for skills‑empowerment programmes. Those programmes, she said, would deliver “real skills” to Abuja’s workforce, enhancing employability and fostering sustainable income generation.
The bill further proposes an “Access to Capital” clause that would allocate a portion of FCT tax revenues to a micro‑loan fund for small‑scale entrepreneurs. By directing tax money into low‑interest loans, the measure aims to nurture home‑grown businesses and reduce reliance on external financing.
Yesufu’s announcement comes amid growing public concern over rising living costs and limited economic opportunities in the capital. Residents have repeatedly voiced frustration on social media about escalating rents, insufficient job training and the difficulty of accessing finance for start‑ups. By linking the proposed legislation to these pressing issues, Yesufu seeks to position herself as a champion of grassroots economic empowerment ahead of the 2027 senatorial election.
Political analysts note that the bill’s focus on quota‑based procurement and rent control could spark debate within the National Assembly, where similar measures have encountered resistance from powerful interest groups. Nevertheless, the activist’s emphasis on transparent allocation of tax revenues and direct support for micro‑entrepreneurs aligns with broader calls for inclusive growth across Nigeria’s urban centres.
If passed, the Abuja Residents Empowerment Bill would represent a significant shift in how federal capital policy addresses housing affordability, local business development and skills acquisition. Observers will watch closely how the proposal is received by lawmakers and whether it can galvanise sufficient voter support for Yesufu’s senatorial bid.
The forthcoming 2027 elections will determine if the activist‑turned‑political‑candidate can translate her advocacy into legislative action, potentially reshaping the economic landscape for millions of Abuja residents.
