Wike Defends High Abuja Billboard Rates Ahead of 2027 Elections

By Trending9ja Staff • November 5, 2026 • 1 min read

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has justified the high cost of billboard advertisements in Abuja, asserting that political campaigning is naturally costly worldwide. According to reports by Punch and Channels TV, Wike made the remarks on Thursday during his monthly media interaction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Wike's comments followed complaints from several opposition political parties regarding the escalating costs of securing outdoor advertising space in the FCT ahead of the 2027 general elections. Channels TV reported that opposition groups expressed concern over financial barriers, claiming that billboards belonging to the ruling All Progressives Congress dominate major areas while rival parties struggle to pay the high rates.

Dismissing allegations of targeted discrimination, Wike explained that the revised rates were intended strictly to boost internal revenue for the capital city. As reported by Punch, the minister stated that funds generated from billboard fees would be directed toward constructing roads and upgrading schools within the territory. He added that the administration does not track which political entities secure ad spaces, as some clients pay up to a year in advance.

The former governor of Rivers State also suggested that political parties utilize social media to connect with voters if outdoor displays prove too costly. He questioned the overall effectiveness of billboards in deciding election outcomes, maintaining that voter choices in rural areas are rarely influenced by roadside advertisements.

Wike further emphasized that major political organisations routinely pay for premium broadcast slots across media platforms, showing that high costs are standard in political communication. According to Punch, the minister challenged any opposition party claiming unfair treatment to lodge a formal complaint with the FCT administration, noting that no official grievances had been submitted.

Sources: Punch · Channels TV