Nigerian Minister Nyesom Wike Endorses Incumbent AMAC Chairman for Another Term
In a significant development ahead of the area council election in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike has publicly backed the incumbent Chairman of the Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, for another term. Wike’s endorsement comes as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that the FCT Area Council election will take place on February 21, 2026.
Speaking during the flagging-off ceremony for the construction and expansion of water supply to FCT Satellite towns, Wike praised Maikalangu’s ability to leverage his access to the government to bring infrastructure development to the people of the FCT and its satellite towns. The minister emphasized the importance of supporting individuals who have a proven track record of delivering results, rather than those who merely make empty promises on television.
“One thing about government and politics is to support those who have the capacity to bring something to the people,” Wike said. “Don’t support people who will go on television talking with nothing to show. Support those that the government will listen to, not those who just cry on national television.”
Wike highlighted Maikalangu’s achievements as AMAC Chairman, noting that he had facilitated the construction of several roads across the capital city, including Saburi road, Ketti-Kabusa road, Kabusa to Katabushina road, and Deidei road. The minister warned residents against voting for candidates who would fail to deliver on their promises, emphasizing that Maikalangu had demonstrated his ability to work effectively with the government to bring benefits to the people.
Wike’s endorsement of Maikalangu is also motivated by the latter’s support for President Bola Tinubu. “I don’t know the party he belongs to, but I know he supports Tinubu, and anybody who supports Tinubu, I will support him,” Wike said. The minister’s statement underscores the significance of political alliances and loyalty in Nigeria’s political landscape.
As the FCT Area Council election approaches, Wike’s endorsement of Maikalangu is likely to carry significant weight, given the minister’s influence in the region. However, it remains to be seen how voters will respond to Wike’s endorsement, and whether Maikalangu’s track record and association with the ruling party will be enough to secure his re-election.
