In the evolving political landscape of the Federal Capital Territory, local governance has become an undeniable measure of leadership competence, delivery, and vision. And when comparing two neighbouring councils, Kwali and Gwagwalada, a clear contrast emerges in the style, priorities, and impact of their chairmen.
While Gwagwalada grapples with administrative disruption, labour disputes, and financial strain, Kwali under Hon. Danladi Chiya has transformed into a model of rural development and grassroots empowerment. The difference is not in geography; it is in leadership.
Chiya’s approach to governance is built on a simple philosophy: development must be seen, felt, and sustained. His administration has pursued infrastructure not as political showmanship but as economic necessity. The completion and commissioning of the 11 km Yangoji–Sukuku–Ebbo Road, the 15 km A2–Pai Road, and the once-abandoned 3.2 km Ladi Kwali Road stand as indisputable evidence of this commitment. These are not urban trophy projects; they are rural lifelines opening communities to markets, security access, and social mobility.
But beyond infrastructure, Chiya’s leadership distinguishes itself through deliberate empowerment. In a region dominated by farming communities, his direct support to agricultural groups — including the provision of farm inputs and logistics vehicles demonstrates a nuanced understanding of local economics. His distribution of motorcycles, sewing machines, and tools to youths and women is not the usual political tokenism; it is targeted livelihood support that encourages independence, productivity, and small-business growth.
The administrative culture in Kwali has also benefitted from Chiya’s reforms. Expansion of the secretariat annexe, improved facilities for security agencies, and stronger institutional processes have enhanced service delivery. These quiet but strategic actions rarely make headlines, yet they are the backbone of a functioning local government.
Across the highway, Gwagwalada tells a different story. Chairman Abubakar Jibrin-Giri has recorded notable achievements — particularly in road rehabilitation, electricity extension, and water projects — but his administration continues to be overshadowed by unresolved internal challenges. The shutdown of the council secretariat and health facilities by workers over unpaid minimum-wage arrears was a major dent on the council’s credibility. Though the chairman cited a court-ordered garnishee on the council’s account, such a breakdown in financial stability reflects deeper management concerns.
Moreover, recurring labour disputes, youth clashes, and emergency security meetings give the impression of an administration constantly reacting rather than planning. The lingering perception associated with past corruption cases under previous leadership has also created an environment where public trust is fragile and easily shaken.
The political difference between the two councils is not merely in projects but in governance philosophy. Chiya has built partnerships with the FCT administration, attracting federal-backed infrastructure into rural communities. Giri’s administration, meanwhile, often appears weighed down by internal crises that distract from broader development goals.
In evaluating the performance of both chairmen, one must look beyond press statements and political narratives. Results speak louder than promises, and the situation on the ground shows a clear gap: Kwali is progressing with direction, while Gwagwalada is progressing with interruptions.
Hon. Danladi Chiya’s model blends infrastructure, empowerment, and institutional reform into a cohesive development blueprint — one that is community-driven, economically sound, and politically mature. His leadership demonstrates that effective governance is not about louder politics, but about consistent delivery.
Gwagwalada possesses the potential to match or surpass such progress, but potential without administrative stability becomes lost opportunity. For now, the contrast remains clear. Kwali’s chairman is not just ahead; he is setting a new standard for grassroots governance in the FCT.
Musa Ibrahim writes for Abuja Political Review.