Bwari, Abuja, June 15, 2026 – The newly elected Chairman of Bwari Area Council, Joshua Ishaku, has outlined plans to drive community-focused development and improve the welfare of residents across the council area.
Ishaku made the commitment during a formal handover ceremony held at the council secretariat in Bwari shortly after he was sworn into office by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in Abuja on Monday.
The event, coordinated by the council’s transition committee and led by the outgoing Secretary of the Council, Eli Kadanya, marked the official transfer of leadership to the new administration.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ishaku said his government would pursue policies designed to directly impact local communities and address key developmental challenges confronting residents.
According to him, his administration is determined to elevate the council to greater heights through purposeful leadership and people-oriented governance.
“We are committed to ensuring that government is felt at the grassroots and that every community benefits from the dividends of democracy. Our goal is to reposition Bwari and restore its place as a leading area council,” he said.
The chairman appealed to residents and stakeholders to support his administration and also continue backing the outgoing chairman, John Gabaya, in his future political aspirations.
Ishaku expressed optimism that Gabaya’s anticipated role at the national level would help attract greater attention to the developmental needs of Bwari and accelerate progress within the council.
He also called on traditional institutions, religious leaders, community representatives, political actors and security agencies to sustain peace and collaborate for the advancement of the area.
The chairman further promised to operate an open and accessible administration, noting that regular town hall meetings would be organised to engage residents and obtain feedback on issues affecting their communities.
In his remarks, the outgoing chairman, Gabaya, thanked residents for their support throughout his seven-year tenure and urged them to extend the same cooperation to the incoming administration.
Gabaya, who said he was pleased to personally hand over power to his successor, advised Ishaku to remain steadfast and prayerful while carrying out the responsibilities of office.
“Leadership at the local government level comes with both rewards and challenges. You must be prepared to withstand criticism and remain focused on your responsibilities.
“Most importantly, maintain a strong relationship with religious leaders. Their guidance and prayers were invaluable during my time in office, and I believe they will also support you in this journey,” he said.
The former chairman expressed gratitude to the people of Bwari for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the support he received during his years in office.
He also voiced confidence that the new leadership possesses the capacity to build on existing achievements and advance the council’s development agenda.
Ishaku emerged as chairman after securing victory in the Bwari Area Council chairmanship election conducted in February on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, according to the official results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission.