The Ministry of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was established in 1976 to oversee the development of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city. Its primary functions include:
- Planning and executing urban development projects
- Managing land administration and allocation
- Providing essential services like water, electricity, and waste management
- Ensuring public safety and security
- Promoting economic growth and development within the FCT
- Coordinating with other government agencies and stakeholders
List Of Ministers Of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) In Nigeria From 1975 Till Date
No | Name | Term Of Office | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mobolaji Ajose-Adeogun | August 1975 - 1979 | Served during the Military Government period. |
2 | John Jatau Kadiya | December 1979 - February 1982 | The first cabinet of the Second Republic. |
3 | Abubakar Iro Danmusa | February 1982 - October 1983 | Served briefly before the military takeover. |
4 | Haliru Dantoro | October 1983 - December 1983 | Served shortly before the military coup. |
5 | Mamman Jiya Vatsa | December 1983 - December 1985 | A key figure in Buhari's government. |
6 | Hamza Abdullahi | 1986 - 1989 | Served under Babangida's regime. |
7 | Gado Nasko | 1989 - 1993 | Notable for his role in transitional governance. |
8 | Gado Nasko | January 1993 - November 17, 1993 | Led an interim government. |
9 | Jeremiah Useni | 1993 - 1998 | Prominent in Abacha's military rule. |
10 | Mamman Kontagora | August 1998 - May 1999 | Served during the transition to civilian rule. |
11 | Ibrahim Bunu | June 30, 1999 - January 30, 2001 | The first cabinet of the Fourth Republic. |
12 | Mohammed Abba Gana | February 8, 2001 - July 17, 2003 | Key minister under Obasanjo's administration. |
13 | Nasir el-Rufai | July 17, 2003 - July 27, 2007 | Known for reforms in the FCT. |
14 | Aliyu Modibbo Umar | July 26, 2007 - October 29, 2008 | Served under President Yar'Adua. |
15 | Adamu Aliero | December 17, 2008 - March 17, 2010 | Part of Jonathan's early administration. |
16 | Bala Mohammed | April 8, 2010 - May 28, 2015 | Continued service under Jonathan's second term. |
17 | Mohammed Musa Bello | November 11,2015-May 29,2023 | Longest-serving minister in recent history. |
18 | Nyesom Wike | August 21,2023-Present | Current Minister and notable political figure. |
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Who Is The Longest-Serving Minister Of Federal Capital Territory (FCT)?
The longest-serving Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Nigeria is Mohammed Musa Bello, serving from 11th November 2015 until 29th May 2023. During this time, he served under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, making him one of the most consistent figures in Nigeria’s federal government.
Bello was appointed in 2015, shortly after President Buhari took office, and he continued to serve throughout both of Buhari’s terms. This long period in office, which lasted almost eight years, makes him the longest-serving FCT minister in Nigeria’s history.
Before taking up the role of FCT minister, Mohammed Musa Bello had an extensive background in both the corporate sector and public service. Born on 8th January 1959, in Yola, which is now part of Adamawa State, Bello studied at Barewa College and then went on to earn a business administration degree from Ahmadu Bello University.
Bello’s career began in the banking sector, where he gained valuable experience in credit and marketing. He also worked with companies like Icon Limited and Habib Bank Plc. His leadership skills were recognized early, leading to different roles, including as Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria from 2007 to 2015.
This position gave him a chance to manage large-scale projects, including overseeing pilgrimages for thousands of Nigerians. Bello was also recognized for his service with the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in October 2022.
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Who Is The New Minister Of Federal Capital Territory (FCT)?
The new Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Nigeria is Nyesom Wike, taking office on August 21, 2023, after being appointed by President Bola Tinubu. Wike has a rich political background, having previously served as the Governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023.
Wike was born on December 13, 1967, in Obio-Akpor, Rivers State. He is an educated man, holding a Bachelor of Laws degree from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology and a Master of Arts degree in Political and Administrative Studies from the same institution.
Wike began his political career as the Executive Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, serving from 1999 to 2007. He was later appointed as the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Rivers State before becoming the Minister of State for Education in 2011.
During his tenure as Governor of Rivers State, Wike focused on different reforms, especially in education. He declared primary and secondary education free in the state and measures to strengthen women’s rights, including property inheritance laws.
However, In 2022, he ran for the presidential ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but lost to Atiku Abubakar. Despite this setback, his political experience and determination led to his appointment as Minister of the FCT.