Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, has asked businesspeople to give Nyesom Wike, the incoming Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, all the support he requires to improve security in the megacity and foster a conducive atmosphere for economic activity.
At the party’s national headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, Ganduje delivered this instruction to a delegation from the Arewa Traders Association.
The news comes three days after the former governor of Kano swore in six party zonal officers to the National Working Committee.
After the meeting with the traders from the 19 Northern states and Abuja, Ganduje spoke to the media and praised Wike as a capable minister who will apply the lessons learned from his spectacular transformation in Rivers state to the FCT.
“You have a qualified honorable minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the former governor of River State, Nyesom Wike, who comes from the big city himself but now has another mandate to run another huge metropolis like the Federal Capital Territory,” he remarked. In order for him to establish a respectable climate for commercial activities in the megacity of Abuja, I implore you to work with him. Security is his first priority, and I have no doubt that he will enhance Abuja’s transportation system.
“As merchants, you understand the significance of the city’s transportation system. He would enhance the city’s lighting so that trading may occur at night if there is light everywhere in Abuja. We appreciate your visit, have taken notice of your request, and promise that we will include you in our political party events. Despite the fact that Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi States will all be holding elections on November 11 and that there are traders in each of these states, you will have access to them so they can actively participate in the election.
“I can guarantee you, Mr. President, that he is creating a conducive climate for you to carry out your lawful actions. He is putting a lot of effort into the country’s security. Everyone is aware of how crucial security is to traders because without it, there can be no commerce, no marketing, and, most crucially, no feeding.
Adam Ibrahim, the chairman of the Arewa Traders Association, had earlier congratulated Ganduje on his recent election as the APC national chairman and expressed the support of his organization’s members for his victory.
Ibrahim also called for inclusive politics that would encourage some of their constituents to take an active role in government at the federal level.
“Sir, Arewa Traders Association supports Tinubu-Shettima programme for all lawful traders in the 19 Northern States and the FCT who have unanimously resolved to work day and night to ensure the victory of the president, his deputy, and all APC candidates at all levels.
“Your Excellency, as a father and a leader, we would like to appeal to you to listen to the opinions of the people, just like you did when you were governor of Kano State. You are aware of the academic excellence of this wonderful organization’s members. We would appreciate it if you used your good offices to offer a suitable format for the inclusion of merchants in the various governmental appointments and committees so that traders feel comfortable participating in the party’s electoral campaign.
“The COVID-19 pandemic, the elimination of gasoline subsidies, the high rate of exchange, and the insecurity in many areas of the nation are posing economic hardships to our people. Therefore, we are requesting your kind support and intervention,” he stated.
