Some residents of Bwari Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have urged the newly elected chairman and councilors to prioritize infrastructure, security, agriculture, and improved livelihoods across the area council.
The residents made the call in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja, expressing high expectations from the new administration.
They said the new leadership had a unique opportunity to address longstanding challenges affecting communities across the council’s wards and improve the quality of life of residents.
NAN reports that Mr Joshua Ishaku, the new chairman of Bwari Area Council, was sworn in by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, on June 15.
The chairman also inaugurated 10 councilors representing the wards of the council to constitute the 10th Legislative Assembly and provide legislative oversight for governance activities.
Residents, however, called on the new administration to introduce policies and programs to accelerate grassroots development and promote sustainable economic growth across the council.
Mr Braimo Musa, a resident, called for massive investment in road construction and rehabilitation, noting that poor road networks continued to hinder economic activities and access to essential services.
“We want a chairman that will focus on projects that directly impact the people. Better roads, functional healthcare centers and quality schools should be top priorities,” he said.
Musa also urged the chairman and councilors to remain accessible, responsive and committed to fulfilling their campaign promises for the overall benefit of communities in Bwari Area Council.
Similarly, Mrs Ruth Gado-Nda, a trader in Bwari town, appealed for improved security, noting that incidents of theft and attacks in some communities had created fear among residents.
According to her, stronger collaboration with security agencies and local vigilante groups would enhance peace, improve public confidence and encourage businesses to thrive.
“We need a secure environment where people can go about their daily activities without fear. Security is the foundation of every meaningful development,” she said.
Also speaking, Mr Zambrak Luka, a farmer, urged the new leadership to support agricultural production through improved seedlings, fertilizers, extension services and better access roads to farming communities.
He said increased investment in agriculture would boost food production, create jobs and improve household incomes across rural communities within the area council.
“Agriculture remains the main source of livelihood for many families in Bwari. Supporting farmers is one of the fastest ways to reduce poverty and promote economic growth,” Luka said.
A youth leader, Miss Deborah Samuel, stressed the need for skills acquisition programs, business grants and employment opportunities targeted at young people.
She said empowering youths would reduce unemployment, discourage criminal activities and promote self-reliance among the growing population of young residents.
“We expect the chairman and councilors to create opportunities that will help young people realize their potential instead of leaving them idle,” she said.
Another resident, Mr Peter Yakubu, called for transparency, accountability and regular engagement between elected officials and residents to strengthen public trust in local governance.
Yakubu urged the new council leadership to ensure that public resources were used for projects the improve residents’ welfare and living standards.
“The people have entrusted them with leadership, and we expect them to deliver on their promises through inclusive governance and community-driven development,” he said.
He also appealed for improved water supply, better sanitation facilities and increased support for women and small-scale entrepreneurs to enhance living conditions across the area council
SOURCE: NAN
