WIKE WARNS AGAINST UNAUTHORIZED STREET NAMING IN ABUJA CITY CENTRE

Wike Warns Against Unauthorized Street Naming in Abuja City Centre

On October 8, 2025, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, issued a stern warning to the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) regarding the unauthorized naming of streets and roads within the Abuja city centre.

This caution came during the official flag-off of engineering infrastructure projects in Guzape District and the adjoining AIT neighborhoods in the Asokoro cadastral zone.

Wike expressed strong disapproval of the practice whereby AMAC officials, under the leadership of Chairman Hon. Christopher Maikalangu, allegedly named streets after private individuals without the approval of the FCT Administration. He described the act as “unacceptable,” especially when such roads and infrastructure were funded by the federal government. 

According to Wike, it is inappropriate for AMAC to assign names to roads constructed with public funds, particularly when those names are chosen based on financial inducements or personal affiliations.

The minister emphasized that streets should be named after individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria, not those who simply pay for the privilege. He warned that any such unauthorized naming would be reversed and advised that any funds collected in exchange for naming rights should be refunded immediately. 

Wike’s remarks were aimed at restoring order and integrity to the process of street naming in the capital city, ensuring that it reflects national values and merit.

This declaration was made in the presence of several dignitaries, including officials from the FCT Administration, representatives of construction firms, and members of the press.

The event also marked the commencement of major infrastructure projects intended to improve road networks and urban planning in key districts of Abuja.

Wike’s warning signals a broader effort by the FCT Administration to assert control over urban development and curb practices that undermine transparency and meritocracy in public administration.