Wike Defends High Abuja Billboard Rates, Says Politics Is Expensive

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended the high cost of billboard advertising in Abuja amid complaints by opposition parties that the charges could restrict their access to campaign platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Wike spoke on Thursday during his monthly media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, following concerns from opposition parties that the rising cost of securing prominent billboard spaces in the nation’s capital could make it difficult for them to publicise their candidates and campaign messages.

The minister argued that political campaigns were expensive across the world and maintained that parties could explore other platforms, including social media, to reach voters.

“Politics is expensive all over the world,” he said, suggesting that political parties should also take advantage of their social media platforms for campaigning.

Wike explained that the increase in billboard charges was part of the FCT Administration’s revenue-generation efforts and was not intended to target or undermine opposition parties.

“We want money. The FCT wants money, and part of us making money is through the billboards to raise our revenue,” he said.

He added that the revenue generated would be channelled towards infrastructure development, including road construction and improvements to schools.

According to him, the administration’s decision was driven by the need to maximise revenue from billboard advertising, particularly during periods when demand for campaign spaces increases.

Wike also questioned the importance attached to billboards in political campaigns, arguing that winning elections depended on more than outdoor advertising.

“For Christ’s sake, a billboard does not win an election; how many people in the villages know about the billboard?” he asked.

The minister further argued that political parties and candidates routinely pay for prominent advertising slots in media organisations, suggesting that billboard charges should not be treated differently.

He also dismissed claims that the revised rates were intended to give the ruling All Progressives Congress an advantage over opposition parties.

Wike said he had not received any formal complaint from a political party alleging that the charges were increased specifically to disadvantage opposition groups, urging those with concerns to approach the relevant authorities.

The controversy comes as political parties begin preparations for the 2027 general elections, with access to campaign platforms and the cost of political advertising becoming subjects of debate.