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NJF Launched Two Innovative Digital To Drive Transformation

By
Saladin Babagana
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The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has launched two innovative digital tools to drive transformation across the 36 states of the federation. These tools, developed through extensive consultations with stakeholders, aim to enhance digital governance and revenue administration.

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Readiness Index

The DPI Readiness Index evaluates states’ readiness for digital governance, assessing their foundational digital capabilities and providing a detailed analysis of strengths, gaps, and areas for improvement. This comprehensive tool is built around three key pillars:

  • Enabling Environment: Assessing the state’s digital infrastructure and policies
  • Building Blocks: Evaluating the state’s digital capabilities and resources
  • Delivery of Public Services: Examining the state’s ability to deliver digital public services

Intelligent Revenue Authority (IRA) Index

The IRA Index focuses on integrating digital tools into revenue administration, aiming to modernize revenue administration and fiscal management.

LThis service-specific tool evaluates core functionalities, operational efficiency, and structural characteristics of revenue administration, including:

  • Digital IDs
  • Data exchange mechanisms
  • Payment systems

To ensure the effectiveness of these tools, the NGF is holding a validation workshop on January 27, 2025, to gather feedback from state representatives.

The workshop will discuss use cases, preliminary feedback trends, and recommendations on treatment measures.

The NGF encourages collaboration from policymakers and development partners to leverage these tools for effective governance and service delivery.

By using these digital tools, states can enhance their digital transformation, improve revenue administration, and deliver better public services to citizens.

50% Tariffs Hike: Prioritize Quality Service Delivery , FCCPC Urged Telecom Operators

By
Roland Edet
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The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has urged telecom operators to prioritize quality service delivery following the recent 50% tariffs hike.

The commission emphasized that consumers have consistently demanded measurable improvements in service quality before any tariff increases are implemented ¹.

Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, highlighted prevalent concerns such as network congestion, dropped calls, inconsistent internet speeds, unusual data depletion, and poor customer service. He stressed that tariff adjustments must directly translate into tangible service enhancements for consumers.

The FCCPC and Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure robust consumer protection, fair competition, and eradication of exploitative practices in the telecommunications sector. The MoU reinforces the principle that regulatory or pricing adjustments must balance industry sustainability with consumer interests.

Key Expectations from Telecom Operators:

  • Visible and Measurable Improvements: Prioritize network reliability, speed, accessibility, and customer service enhancements.
  • Responsible Allocation of Increased Revenues: Emphasize infrastructure development and service delivery improvements.
  • Clear Communication: Inform consumers about tariff adjustments, their benefits, and alignment with service improvement efforts.
  • Transparency and Accountability: Establish mechanisms to monitor fund utilization and ensure consumers benefit directly from adjustments.

The FCCPC acknowledged the economic pressures faced by telecom operators but emphasized that consumer interests remain paramount. The commission commended the NCC for adopting a measured approach to tariff adjustments and implementing measures to mitigate the impact on consumers .

Aviation Minister Rejects Contract Inflation for Abuja Airport’s 2nd Runway

By
Gladys Phillip
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The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has rejected a contract variation of N532 billion for the construction of the second runway at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. Keyamo deemed the variation “outrageous” and “fraudulent,” as it exceeded the original contract sum of N90 billion by a staggering N442 billion.

The contractor, who received N30 billion of the initial N90 billion contract sum, had abandoned the site after compensating some settlers on the affected land. All efforts to get the contractor back to the site were unsuccessful due to the unacceptable contract variation demands.

Keyamo emphasized that the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development will not tolerate such fraudulent practices and has therefore revoked the contract. The project will be re-tendered, allowing fresh bidding from interested contractors.

In a related development, the Minister addressed concerns about the N36 billion owed to workers of the defunct Nigeria Airways. Keyamo explained that the payment has been shifted to the Ministry of Finance, as it is not a capital project expense. He assured that the affected pensioners will receive their dues from the Ministry of Finance.

Keyamo also presented the Ministry’s 2025 budgetary proposal, totaling N71.13 billion, with N69.2 billion allocated for capital projects, N1.147 billion for personnel costs, and N745.7 million for overheads. However, the joint committee requested more detailed information on the status of 124 ongoing projects before approving the budget proposal.

The Minister’s stance on the contract variation has been commended, and the decision to re-tender the project is seen as a positive step towards transparency and accountability in the aviation sector ¹.

Tinubu Spends Over ₦300 Billion on Infrastructure Development in Six Area Councils

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his dedication to infrastructural development, revealing that over ₦300 billion has been invested in transformative projects across the territory. Speaking during the commissioning of the 9-kilometre Paikon-kore-Ibwa Road in Gwagwalada on Wednesday, Wike highlighted ongoing and completed initiatives as evidence of the administration’s focus on both the city and satellite towns.

Wike announced that ₦22 billion had been allocated to the Aguma Palace Road and other critical infrastructure in Gwagwalada, with commissioning planned for May 2025. He also detailed the renovation of five secondary schools in the area, including the prestigious School for the Gifted, valued at ₦16.5 billion, and the establishment of new police divisions to enhance security. Describing the Paikon-kore-Ibwa Road as a significant achievement, Wike noted, “Mr. President is not only focused on developing Abuja city but also the satellite towns. This road alone received ₦8.5 billion, demonstrating his commitment to equitable development.”

The Minister directed the Satellite Town Development Department (STDD) to prioritize constructing a bridge in Gwagwalada, assuring its inclusion in the 2025 statutory budget. He also expressed gratitude to the National Assembly for their collaboration, stating, “Their cooperation has enabled us to achieve so much within a short time.”

FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, also praised President Tinubu and Minister Wike for prioritizing projects that foster connectivity and economic growth. Describing the road as “a symbol of progress,” Mahmoud emphasized its impact on mobility and commerce. She extended gratitude to community leaders, contractors, and security agencies for their support and urged residents to safeguard the road, ensuring its benefits for generations to come. **“This road reflects our shared commitment

FCT Doctors Begin Three-Day Strike Over Unpaid Salaries, Hazard Allowances

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have embarked on a three-day warning strike to protest unpaid salaries, allowances, and unfulfilled commitments from the government.

The strike, led by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) FCTA, has disrupted medical services across major government hospitals in Abuja, including Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, and Nyanya.

At a press briefing in Abuja, ARD FCTA President, Dr. George Ebong, criticized the government for neglecting doctors’ welfare and healthcare infrastructure, despite a 21-day ultimatum issued to FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, in December 2024. Highlighting their grievances, Dr. Ebong called for the immediate payment of six months’ salary arrears, release of accoutrements allowances, promotions, and settlement of 13 months’ hazard allowance arrears. He warned of an indefinite strike if the government fails to act, stating, “Just as roads are being constructed, the welfare of doctors should also be prioritized. We need actions, not just promises.”

Alake Urges Northern Elites to Back Tinubu’s Vision for Economic Recovery

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has urged northern elites to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy and driving national development.

Dr. Alake made this call on Tuesday in Kaduna while receiving the Most Impactful Minister award from the Arewa Think-Tank. He credited his accomplishments to the collaborative governance approach championed by President Tinubu, which fosters synergy across ministries.

“The achievements of a single minister are the result of teamwork and collaboration across ministries,” Dr. Alake remarked in a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Segun Tomori.

Achievements in the Solid Minerals Sector

Dr. Alake outlined significant progress in the solid minerals sector under his leadership, including the establishment of Mining Marshals in partnership with the Ministries of Interior and Defence. He also highlighted efforts to globally promote Nigeria’s mining sector with support from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Investment.

He praised President Tinubu’s leadership, citing the 25-year economic projection for Lagos State as a transformative blueprint for national growth. “President Tinubu’s visionary policies in Lagos remain a shining example of strategic planning and sustainable development,” he said.

Reforms for Long-Term Sustainability

Dr. Alake emphasized the importance of bold reforms undertaken by the Tinubu administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the resumption of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery. “These reforms may involve sacrifices, but they are necessary to dismantle systems that benefited a few at the expense of the masses,” he stated.

Support from Prominent Leaders

The award ceremony, chaired by retired General Martin Luther Agwai, drew prominent figures, including Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani, former Kaduna Governor Alhaji Ramalan Yero, and Chief Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications.

General Agwai called for prioritizing agriculture to combat climate change and insecurity, while Governor Sani highlighted successes in agricultural policies that have boosted the livelihoods of farmers in Kaduna State.

Nigeria, Saudi Arabia Deepen Collaboration on Mining, Geological Advancements

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have renewed their commitment to strengthening their geological agencies and boosting mineral exploration by leveraging Saudi Arabia’s advancements in mining technologies.

At a closed-door meeting during the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Minister of Mining, Engr. Bandar Al-Khorayef, highlighted the efforts of the Saudi government and private sector in integrating cutting-edge technologies into mineral exploration. He noted that innovative products displayed at the forum aimed to enhance awareness and adoption across the mining sector.

The initiative was spearheaded by Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who advocated for mutually beneficial partnerships between the two nations across the mining value chain. Dr. Alake emphasized Nigeria’s potential in leveraging Saudi Arabia’s gold market to position Nigerian gold refineries under agreements that would foster economic growth for both countries.

Accompanied by Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, and other top officials, Dr. Alake also engaged with the Saudi Chamber of Commerce to attract investment in Nigeria’s vast lithium and iron ore deposits. He assured prospective investors that the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) would provide detailed data to de-risk investments and streamline exploration projects.

Dr. Alake further underlined Nigeria’s strategic role in the global shift toward lithium-powered electric machines, proposing partnerships with Saudi investors to facilitate the export of processed industrial inputs. He also commended Saudi Arabia’s steel production investments, positioning them as a model for Nigeria’s iron ore-to-steel initiatives.

This collaboration demonstrates Nigeria’s dedication to diversifying its economy through solid minerals development and harnessing international expertise to unlock the sector’s potential.

FCTA Announces 2025 Hajj Fare of N8.45 Million for Intending Pilgrims

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced the approved fare for the 2025 Hajj as N8,457,685.59k for intending pilgrims from Abuja.

In a statement released by the Board’s Public Relations Officer, Muhammad Lawal, intending pilgrims who have already made deposits are required to complete their payments by Thursday, January 30, 2025, to secure their participation in this year’s pilgrimage. Lawal also urged prospective pilgrims who are yet to make any deposit to ensure full payment before the deadline to secure their spots.

He emphasized that all payments must be made through bank drafts, as cash transactions will not be accepted. The prompt conclusion of payments will enable the Board to finalize the list of intending pilgrims and remit the required funds to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

Additionally, the Board has initiated discussions with service providers in Saudi Arabia to secure high-quality feeding and comfortable accommodations for the FCT contingent in Makkah. These efforts are in line with the Board’s commitment to providing exceptional services under the New Hope Agenda of the current administration.

The Board has advised intending pilgrims to act quickly to avoid missing the opportunity to participate in this year’s Hajj exercise.

Tinubu’s Administration Delivers on Promises: 11km Yangogi-Sukuku-Ebo Road Commissioned in Kwali

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructural development and community upliftment, citing the successful completion of the 11km Yangogi-Sukuku-Ebo road in Kwali Area Council as a testament to the administration’s dedication.

Speaking at the official commissioning of the project on Tuesday in Abuja, Wike expressed satisfaction with the community’s support for the government and reiterated the administration’s resolve to deliver on its promises. “I thank God Almighty that we made that promise, and today it is a promise made and a promise fulfilled. You are the first community where we are doing a road and installing streetlights,” he said.

The Minister highlighted the impact of the project on the community, emphasizing its role in enhancing connectivity, reducing insecurity, and improving access to essential services like healthcare and education. He also commended Gilmore Construction Company for completing the road on schedule and renovating a local school as part of its corporate social responsibility. “I urge other companies to emulate Gilmore by contributing to the development of the community,” Wike added.

The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised the administration’s swift execution of the project, noting its completion less than a year after its groundbreaking in February 2024. She emphasized the road’s transformative impact on rural development, calling it a critical step in fostering economic growth and sustainable communities. “Investing in rural infrastructure is not just about economic development; it’s about building inclusive and resilient communities,” she said.

Residents of Kwali expressed gratitude to the Tinubu-led administration for addressing their needs, reaffirming their support for the government’s vision of inclusive development. The event also underscored ongoing projects in the area, including the construction of police stations, as the administration continues to prioritize the welfare of rural communities.

WHO Regrets US Withdrawal, Calls for Sustained Partnership to Protect Global Health

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw from the organization, highlighting the critical role the partnership has played in safeguarding global health and security. In a statement, WHO emphasized its efforts in addressing disease outbreaks, building resilient health systems, and responding to health emergencies worldwide, including in challenging environments where others cannot operate.

As a founding member since 1948, the United States has been instrumental in shaping WHO’s mission, contributing to milestones like the eradication of smallpox and the near-eradication of polio. WHO also noted its ongoing reforms to enhance accountability and cost-effectiveness. The organization called for constructive dialogue with the US to sustain their long-standing partnership, which it described as essential for protecting global health and the well-being of millions, including Americans.

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