FCT minister Nyesom Wike has expressed optimism that the FCT Administration will achieve 80 per cent implementation of its 2026 budget by January 2027.

Mr Wike, who disclosed this to journalists after inspecting some ongoing projects in Abuja on Thursday, assured that the budget implementation is feasible despite the tight timetable for the 2027 elections scheduled for January.

He assured residents that ongoing projects would not be slowed down by political activities, adding that planned projects would be completed before January.

“It is very feasible. The election will come but people will work and people will eat. Our focus is clear: deliver projects, improve lives, and keep Abuja moving.

“We will not stop working because the 2027 election is around the corner. I assure you that before we get to January, we must have done over 80 per cent of what we intend to do.

“So, we don’t have any problem with the 2027 elections,” stated the minister.

Mr Wike, however, explained that the FCT Administration was still working with the 2025 budget, adding the 2026 budget has not been approved yet.

“We are still working on the 2025 budget which will be extended till June ending, and by the time the National Assembly resumes on April 21, the 2026 budget will be approved,” the minister explained.

Speaking on inspected projects, Mr Wike said that the Airport Road to Kuje Expressway was almost completed, adding that the project would be handed over by the end of May.

Mr Wike also said that the first phase of the Kuje to Gwagwalada Road had reached advanced stage and would equally be completed by the end of May. He explained that the inspection tour was part of efforts by the FCT Administration to ensure contractors meet deadlines and deliver quality infrastructure across the territory.

The minister also dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress that the FCT Administration attempted to frustrate its convention by targeting the Rainbow Event Centre.

Mr Wike said there was no interference from anybody.

“These people (ADC chieftains) should just stop looking for sympathy,” said the FCT minister.

(NAN)