By Sarah NEGEDU
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday announced the automatic elevation of all second-class traditional rulers in the territory, to first-class chiefs.
The promotion comes barely 24 hours after the minister approved the elevation of the Etsu Kwali, His Royal Highness, Luka Ayedoo Nizassan III, to first-class status.
Wike, while responding to a request by the Ona of Abaji, His Royal Majesty Alhaji (Dr.) Adamu Baba Yunusa, for the upgrading of traditional stools overdue for such elevation, said the elevation would strengthen traditional institutions and foster closer cooperation with the government.
He therefore declared that, “By the power vested in me as FCT Minister, I hereby approve the elevation of all second-class chiefs in the territory to first-class status.”
The minister, who was in Abaji in continuation of his thank-you visits to all six area councils of the FCT for their support during the February 21, 2026, area council elections, also announced the automatic elevation of all third-class chiefs to second-class status.
Beneficiaries of the first-class elevation include Gomo of Kuje, Etsu Karu, Sarkin Karshi, Sarkin Bwari, and Etsu Kwali.
The minister further directed the FCTA to draw plans for the design and renovation of the Ona of Abaji’s palace, emphasizing that the project would reflect the elevated status of the traditional office.
The minister assured that the elevations and infrastructure support are part of the administration’s commitment to delivering on visible projects.
“Right from when Mr President was inaugurated, the Renewed Hope Agenda is not just in talking, but also in practice. The people must see that the good we have lost has been brought back, and that is what we are doing today,” Wike said.
Earlier while praising the minister for the development strides in Abaji and also elevation of the Etsu Kwali to a first class chief, the chairman of Abaji Area Council, Abubakar Abdullahi, said the move reinforces confidence in local leadership.
The chairman, while assuring Wike of the people’s support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid come 2027, also used the opportunity to appeal for the completion of an abandoned 15km Road in Abaji, as well as an additional infrastructure projects for the area council.
“Your Excellency, the people of Abaji have waited for years for federal recognition of our traditional institutions. This upgrade motivates our chiefs to continue to serve diligently,” he said.
