Abuja LP Senator Kingibe Backs Wike’s ₦1.78 Trillion FCT Budget, Cites Public Good Over Politics

 

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senator Ireti Kingibe has voiced firm support for the ₦1.78 trillion 2025 budget proposed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, commending its strong focus on capital projects aimed at addressing pressing social needs.

The Labour Party senator made her position clear following a viral video where she was seen expressing approval of the budget. Despite the mixed reactions generated by the footage, Kingibe stood her ground, stating that her backing for the budget was driven not by political alignment but by the urgent needs of her constituents.

Kingibe highlighted the budget’s allocation structure, emphasizing that over 70 percent of the proposal is devoted to capital expenditure, while less than 30 percent is earmarked for personnel and overhead costs. For her, this signals a serious intent to invest in infrastructure and social services, areas she believes require immediate and sustained attention.

She explained that her support stems from a commitment to truth and responsibility, not political convenience. “Sometimes, we must put aside political differences and focus on a common goal: the progress and well-being of our people,” she said. “A budget of under 30% for Personnel and Overheads and over 70% for Capital Projects is a good budget if well implemented.”

Kingibe pointed to the everyday struggles of FCT residents, especially those in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, as a major reason for her stance. According to her, the conditions in which many live—without adequate shelter, healthcare, or education—are beyond partisan debate and must be addressed with urgency.

“Youth unemployment, underfunded health systems, and educational decline are not abstract issues,” she stressed. “These are the realities our people deal with every day, and this budget, if used effectively, has the potential to bring real change.”

While affirming her hope that the budget will be a turning point for the territory, the senator was clear that her support comes with expectations. She promised to closely monitor implementation and hold the FCT administration accountable to ensure transparency and delivery of results.

“My commitment remains to the people, and I will continue to demand accountability and transparency every step of the way,” she said, reiterating her focus on governance as a tool for service, not personal or political gain.

Wike had earlier defended the ₦1.78 trillion proposal before both chambers of the National Assembly, outlining a vision for infrastructure expansion and social development across the FCT. With Kingibe’s endorsement, the budget now has bipartisan backing, though public scrutiny will likely remain intense given the large sum involved.

Kingibe’s comments mark a moment of rare political alignment in the often-fractious landscape of Nigerian politics. Her emphasis on results over rivalry offers a message that resonates with citizens increasingly disillusioned by political grandstanding.

As the FCT awaits the disbursement and implementation phase, all eyes will be on how the funds are managed—and whether the hopes raised by the capital-heavy budget will translate into tangible improvements in the lives of everyday residents.