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Wike Flags Off Multi-Billion Naira Roads in Asokoro, Guzape, Vows to End Indiscriminate Street Naming in Abuja

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***Says Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda Bringing Lasting Infrastructure to Every District

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Abuja into a world-class city through massive infrastructure renewal, as he flagged off the construction of key roads in Guzape District (AO9) and the Asokoro AIT Neighbourhood (AO4).

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony on Wednesday, Wike said the projects were part of the administration’s deliberate efforts to ensure that every part of the FCT enjoys the dividends of democracy, stressing that no district would be left behind in the Renewed Hope infrastructure drive.

“What is important is that we appreciate and know that it is the intention of Mr. President to make sure that every part of Abuja, particularly the city, has infrastructure and road networks that will make the capital function effectively,” Wike said.

“Residents who have lived here for years without access roads can now say Tinubu has made an impact. This is the Renewed Hope in action.”

The Minister commended Dantata & Sawoe Construction Company for their commitment to delivering quality projects on schedule, charging the contractor to ensure the timely completion of the roads and to engage local youths and women for employment opportunities.

Wike, however, cautioned against the growing trend of individuals naming streets after themselves or others without government approval, describing it as “illegal and unacceptable.”

“We cannot be building roads with taxpayers’ money only for people to wake up and name them after themselves. It will no longer be allowed.

“From now on, only those who have genuinely contributed to the development of Abuja will have the honour of having streets named after them,” he warned.

The Minister also directed the Mandate Secretary for Education to compile and publish an electronic record of all school rehabilitation projects across the six area councils, as part of his ‘Operation Show Your Report Card’ initiative.

“We came in August 2023. Nigerians deserve to see what we have done. The schools we have completed, those ongoing, and those about to be flagged off must be documented for public scrutiny,” Wike declared.

Speaking earlier, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the provision of engineering infrastructure within Guzape AO9 and the AIT Neighbourhood in Asokoro AO4 as critical to the administration’s vision of sustainable urban expansion.

“Beyond opening up these districts for development, the road networks and associated infrastructure will enhance connectivity between neighbourhoods, reduce travel time, and decongest adjoining routes,” Mahmoud stated.

She lauded members of the National Assembly for their consistent legislative and budgetary support and commended Wike for his “dynamic and purposeful leadership” in driving the FCT’s infrastructural transformation.

The newly flagged-off roads are expected to ease traffic congestion, enhance property value, and improve accessibility within the Guzape and Asokoro districts, marking another milestone in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the FCT.

IITA Drives Breakthrough in Aflatoxin Control to Boost Food Safety and Farmers’ Income

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The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating aflatoxin contamination in Nigeria’s food crops a persistent threat to public health, agricultural exports, and farmers’ livelihoods.

Speaking during a field trip to IITA’s Abuja Station in Kubwa, organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) in partnership with Nigeria Health Watch, Dr. Beatrice Aighewi, IITA Abuja Station Representative and Seed System Specialist, said the institute’s groundbreaking research is drastically reducing aflatoxin levels in grains and tuber crops such as maize, groundnut, cassava, and yam.

“Aflatoxin affects most grains maize, groundnut, and even tubers like cassava and yam when they are not properly dried,” Dr. Aighewi explained. “Our research developed a natural control method using beneficial fungi found in the soil to outgrow and suppress the toxic ones. This approach has achieved about 98 to 99 percent cleanup of infected fields.”

She explained that the bio-control product, developed by IITA scientists, has been successfully adapted to different crops and ecological zones across Africa. “The strain used in Nigeria is not the same as what you’ll find in East Africa,” she said. “We tailor the technology to local conditions, using indigenous organisms that are both environmentally safe and highly effective.”

Dr. Aighewi stressed that IITA, as a non-profit research institute, focuses on developing and sharing innovations rather than commercializing them. “We built a prototype factory to demonstrate how aflatoxin-control products can be produced locally, and several countries, including Liberia, have now established similar facilities,” she noted. “These efforts are restoring confidence among food processors and exporters who previously suffered international rejections due to contamination.”

Highlighting IITA’s broader impact on agricultural productivity, Dr. Aighewi disclosed that Nigeria’s cassava and yam farmers have recorded remarkable yield increases using IITA-improved varieties.

“While most farmers used to harvest 8 to 10 tons per hectare, those planting IITA-improved varieties now achieve between 30 and 40 tons,” she revealed. “The difference is clear healthier leaves, higher productivity, and safer food.”

She called on government agencies, private sector actors, and farmers to adopt IITA’s research-based innovations to strengthen Nigeria’s food safety framework and enhance its competitiveness in the global agricultural market.

“Once aflatoxin is found in food products, they are rejected in international trade,” Dr. Aighewi warned. “We must prioritize food safety from the farm level to protect both consumers and our economy.”

In his opening remarks, Mr. Victor Ekeleme, Senior Associate, Communications at GAIN, underscored the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in strengthening Nigeria’s food systems. He said the visit provided participants with valuable insights into IITA’s contributions to agricultural innovation and food system transformation across Africa.

“We’re here to learn about how IITA contributes to the food system landscape and to see some of the ongoing research that supports nutrition and food security in Nigeria,” Ekeleme stated.

Ekeleme emphasized that partnerships between research institutions, the media, and policymakers are vital to building evidence-based solutions for sustainable food systems and better nutrition outcomes for Nigerians.

Abuja Lawyers Petition U.S. Attorney General, Demand Probe of Sowore’s Finances, Media Outfit, U.S. Visa Suspension

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A group of Abuja-based lawyers has filed a petition before the Attorney General of the State of New York, United States of America, calling for a sweeping investigation into the financial dealings of Sahara Media Group Incorporated and its founder, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, over alleged inconsistencies in nonprofit reporting, tax filings, and asset declarations.

The petition, dated October 7, 2025, and filed through Heartland Advisors & Solicitors, was submitted at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja. The lawyers, Barrister Sunday Oluwole and Barrister Felix Olanrewaju Wolemiwa, also demanded the suspension or invalidation of Sowore’s U.S. travel documents pending the outcome of the investigations.

In the petition titled “Request for Investigation into Financial Activities of Sahara Media Group Inc. and Mr. Omoyele Sowore,” the lawyers alleged that the media entrepreneur and political activist may have violated U.S. nonprofit and tax laws through questionable financial reporting and undeclared assets.

“We respectfully request your office’s review of the financial activities of Sahara Media Group Inc., a New York-registered entity, and its founder, Mr. Omoyele Sowore,” the petition stated. “This request stems from concerns about potential discrepancies in nonprofit financial reporting, tax compliance, and asset declarations, which may impact both U.S. and Nigerian public interests.”

According to the lawyers, Sahara Media Group received a $1.3 million grant from the MacArthur Foundation between 2016 and 2019 for journalist training in Nigeria, but they alleged that there has been limited public reporting on how the funds were utilized, contrary to transparency obligations under New York nonprofit laws.

They also accused Sowore of possible asset concealment, claiming that while he declared to Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2023 ownership of only one property worth ₦5 million and a 2008 Toyota Camry, public records in the U.S. reportedly show he purchased a $552,000 property in 2018, which may not have been disclosed in his INEC filings.

The lawyers further raised concerns about Sowore’s financial capacity and lifestyle, noting that his son attends the Dwight-Englewood School in New Jersey, where tuition costs about $59,235 annually, alongside his political campaign expenditures in Nigeria.

“These appear inconsistent with the reported financial strength of Sahara Media Group, which operates primarily as a media outlet. A review of his income sources and tax compliance could clarify whether these are supported by legitimate, reported earnings,” the petitioners stated.

They also cited the temporary suspension of a $2 million GoFundMe fundraiser for Sowore’s Take Back Nigeria Movement in 2018, which they said raises further questions about the legality of funds raised under U.S. charitable solicitation laws.

The petitioners urged the U.S. authorities to:

Investigate Sahara Media Group’s financial records, including the MacArthur Foundation grant;

Review Mr. Sowore’s tax filings for compliance with U.S. laws;

Determine whether nonprofit funds were diverted for personal or political use; and

Suspend or revoke Sowore’s U.S. travel documents pending the outcome of investigations.

“This petition is made in good faith to promote accountability and transparency, and to safeguard the integrity of nonprofit operations in New York while upholding public trust in cross-border political activities,” the lawyers concluded.

“Color Your Plate, Save Your Health” — Nutrition Expert Urges Nigerians to Eat from All 12 Food Groups

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***Says Nutrition Reporting Can Drive National Behaviour Change and Policy Action

Nigerians have been urged to “color their plates” by eating from all 12 recognized food groups to boost health, productivity, and national development.

The call was made by Dr. Olapeju Phorbee, Executive Director of the Food Agriculture Nutrition Network (FANN), during a two-day capacity-building training for media professionals on nutrition and food systems reporting, organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) in partnership with Nigeria Health Watch in Abuja.

Dr. Phorbee said many of the country’s health challenges are rooted in poor dietary habits and limited awareness of balanced nutrition.

“You are sensitizing the public, educating, informing, and advocating and ultimately driving behavior change,” she told journalists. “Through your reports, you help shift norms and influence systems for the better.”

Listing the 12 food groups cereals; roots and tubers; pulses; nuts and seeds; leafy and non-leafy vegetables; fruits; meat and poultry; fish and seafood; eggs; milk and dairy; oils and fats; and sugars or miscellaneous foods she explained that eating foods with diverse colors provides essential nutrients needed for energy, growth, and disease prevention.

“Our message is simple: color your plate. A meal that combines varieties from these 12 food groups provides balance and improves well-being,” she emphasized.

Dr. Phorbee also encouraged journalists to become agents of change, using their platforms to promote healthier eating habits, influence public attitudes, and push for nutrition-sensitive policies.

Highlighting five principles of good nutrition Adequacy, Balance, Calorie Control, Moderation, and Variety she said these, when applied consistently, promote long-term wellness.

Participants at the training were introduced to the “Eatwell Plate,” a visual guide that illustrates how to balance daily meals across food groups such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, proteins, dairy, and limited fats or sugars.

“Nutrition is not just a health issue; it’s an economic, social, and developmental issue,” Dr. Phorbee noted. “The media has the power to make nutrition everyone’s business.”

On his part, Mr. Victor Ekeleme, Senior Associate, Communications at GAIN, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to empowering Nigerian journalists with the knowledge and tools to effectively report on nutrition and food systems.

“The stories we tell, and how we tell them, shape public understanding, influence policies, and mobilize action. That is where you, our partners in the media, play a crucial role,” Ekeleme stated.

He explained that the training aims to help journalists produce evidence-based and solution-driven stories that can drive positive change in communities.

Over the two days, participants engaged with experts on topics such as food fortification, nutrition policy frameworks, combating misinformation, and using artificial intelligence for impactful storytelling.

Ekeleme urged the media to maximize the opportunity for collaboration and advocacy, stressing that informed reporting on nutrition can help build a healthier and better-nourished Nigeria.

Two-Thirds of Nigerian Children Face Food Poverty as Nation Tops Africa in Malnutrition-UNICEF

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***Calls for Urgent Action as 15 Million Children Suffer Stunting, 12 Million Anaemic

Two out of every three Nigerian children are suffering from child food poverty lacking access to diverse and nutritious diets while two out of three infants are not exclusively breastfed, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has revealed.

According to UNICEF Nigeria’s Malnutrition Manager, Sumit Karn, these alarming statistics signal a worsening nutrition crisis threatening the survival, growth, and development of millions of children nationwide.

Speaking at a two-day capacity-building training for media professionals on nutrition and food systems reporting, organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) in partnership with Nigeria Health Watch in Abuja, Karn described the situation as “deeply concerning.”

“Nigeria is home to an estimated 38 million children under the age of five with 15 million stunted, 7 million moderately wasted, and 3 million severely wasted. In addition, about 12 million children are anaemic,” he said, adding that the country now ranks number one in Africa and number two globally for the number of malnourished children.

Karn explained that the Average Annual Rate of Reduction (AARR) for stunting is currently 1.4 percentage points per year far below the 10 points required to meet global nutrition benchmarks. Consequently, four out of five Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) nutrition targets remain off track in Nigeria.

He also revealed that 31 million Nigerians across 26 states and the FCT are either hungry or uncertain about their next meal, a crisis worsened by food insecurity, inflation, and poverty.

“This situation demands urgent, coordinated action from all stakeholders,” he warned. “We must strengthen nutrition-sensitive programmes, improve food systems, and promote exclusive breastfeeding to give every Nigerian child a fair start in life.”

UNICEF urged federal and state governments, civil society, and the private sector to scale up investments in nutrition and social protection systems, stressing that ending malnutrition is not just a public health goal but a development imperative that affects education, productivity, and national prosperity.

Speaking earlier, Mr. Victor Ekeleme, Senior Associate, Communications at GAIN, said the organization’s mission is to make healthier diets more affordable, accessible, and desirable for all.

“The stories we tell and how we tell them shape public understanding, influence policy, and mobilize action. That is where you, our partners in the media, play a crucial role,” Ekeleme noted, commending journalists for their continued commitment to advancing nutrition advocacy in Nigeria.

He explained that the training was designed to equip journalists with evidence-based tools and knowledge to produce solution-driven stories that inspire policy change and community action.

Over the two-day workshop, participants engaged with nutrition experts on key issues such as food fortification, policy frameworks, tackling misinformation, and leveraging artificial intelligence tools for impactful storytelling.

Ekeleme urged journalists to use the platform to build stronger advocacy networks that can help accelerate progress toward a healthier, better-nourished Nigeria.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Returns to Senate After Six-Month Suspension Drama

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has officially resumed her legislative duties at the National Assembly, ending a six-month suspension that generated nationwide debate and a series of legal actions.

Her return to plenary on Tuesday followed her earlier resumption to office on September 23, marking a full reinstatement after what many described as one of the most controversial suspensions in recent Senate history.

The upper legislative chamber had earlier adjourned its sessions on July 24 for its annual recess, with plans to reconvene on September 23. However, a memo signed by the Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Chinedu Akubueze, shifted the resumption date to October 7.

On Tuesday morning, Akpoti-Uduaghan walked confidently into the red chamber, made her way to her seat, and exchanged pleasantries with a few colleagues before proceedings began.

In a show of solidarity, several civil society leaders accompanied her to the National Assembly, including Aisha Yesufu, co-convener of the Bring Back Our Girls movement, who was seen observing proceedings from the Senate gallery.

With her return, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to rejoin committee assignments and resume her legislative advocacy on governance reforms, women’s rights, and social justice issues she has been vocal about since her election.

Tinubu Delivers on Promises as Wike Flags Off 15km Old Keffi Road Rehabilitation in Abuja

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*** 73 Schools Under Renovation, 27 New Projects Set for Flag-Off Across FCT

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is steadily transforming Abuja through massive investments in road networks, schools, and public infrastructure.

Wike stated this on Tuesday during the flag-off of the 15-kilometre Old Keffi Road rehabilitation project from Kado Village to Dei-Dei, describing it as a clear demonstration of the President’s commitment to improving connectivity, accessibility, and economic growth in the FCT.

“When Mr. President assumed office in 2023, one of the emergency road projects he immediately approved was the Saburi 1 and Saburi 2 roads,” Wike said. “I made a commitment to the traders and residents that the rehabilitation of this Old Keffi Road would follow and today, to the glory of God, that promise is being fulfilled.”

The project, awarded to Lubrik Construction Company, the same firm behind the Saburi roads, covers 15 kilometres and is expected to ease traffic, enhance safety, and boost commercial activities for thousands of daily commuters along the Kado–Dei-Dei corridor.

The Minister commended the Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, for being a “true representative of his people,” noting that the Old Keffi Road rehabilitation was one of the key demands Maikalangu made during the commissioning of earlier projects.

“That is what true representation means choosing leaders who understand your needs and are committed to pursuing them,” Wike said. “Chairman Maikalangu deserves your continued support for the sake of continuity.”

Highlighting broader development strides under President Tinubu, Wike revealed that 73 Government Secondary Schools across the FCT are currently undergoing rehabilitation, with an additional 33 projects set to be flagged off in the coming weeks.

“Out of 105 ongoing projects in the FCT, 73 are located within AMAC and the city,” he disclosed. “This administration is working hard to change things for the better both for Nigerians and the people of Abuja.”

Wike warned residents not to be swayed by “politicians who failed to deliver when they had the chance,” stressing that the Tinubu-led administration is restoring public confidence by matching words with visible action.

“Do not be deceived by people who come with empty stories. We gave them a first chance they failed. We gave them a second chance they failed again. If we make the mistake of giving them a third chance, they will destroy everything. Seeing is believing you can see the results for yourselves,” he said.

He also disclosed that the FCT Administration has lined up 27 project flag-offs across the Territory, a record number he said has “never happened before in Abuja’s history.”

Wike urged the construction company to employ local residents, particularly youths and women, either directly or through subcontracting, to ensure that the host communities benefit economically from the project.

“This is a government that makes promises and fulfills them. We will continue to work, continue to deliver, and continue to justify the confidence Nigerians have reposed in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Wike affirmed.

In her vote of thanks, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, commended President Tinubu for his unwavering support for infrastructure renewal and for prioritizing projects that directly impact the lives of citizens.

“This road is a lifeline that serves thousands of commuters daily, linking communities, reducing travel time, improving road safety, and stimulating socio-economic activities across this axis,” she said. “It stands as yet another testimony of Mr. President’s vision for connectivity and inclusive development in the FCT.”

Ghana to Host 2025 African Women Conference: Focus on Legacy, Innovation, and Sustainable Development

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The Republic of Ghana will host the 2025 African Women Conference (AWC) from November 19 to 21, bringing together women leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and advocates from across Africa and the diaspora to chart new pathways for gender equity, innovation, and sustainable development.

Themed “Legacy Meets Innovation: Women Forging New Pathways for Africa’s Sustainable Development,” the high-level event will serve as a vibrant platform for policy dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among influential African women and global partners.

In a press statement made available to journalists in Abuja, Co-Convener of the African Women Conference, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, announced that the 9th edition of the AWC will feature keynote addresses, plenary sessions, and strategic roundtables designed to advance women’s participation in governance, digital transformation, and economic leadership.

Dr. Ahmadu noted that this year’s edition would attract First Ladies, Ministers, Members of Parliament, Heads of International Organizations, Civil Society Leaders, and Women in Business from across the continent.

She explained that the decision to host the conference in Ghana, rather than South Africa as earlier planned, followed broad consultations aimed at enhancing accessibility, inclusiveness, and participation the core values on which the AWC was founded.

“The choice of Ghana reflects its enduring commitment to democracy, inclusivity, and women’s empowerment. The shift is a strategic step to ensure broader engagement across Africa,” she said.

According to the statement, past editions of the AWC have been held in Namibia, Morocco, Rwanda, The Gambia, Ethiopia, and Zambia, while Nigeria is billed to host the 10th edition in 2026.

The 2025 conference will place special emphasis on digital inclusion, climate resilience, leadership mentoring, and financing for women-led enterprises—key areas driving Africa’s transformation agenda.

This year’s gathering is expected to culminate in a Joint Communiqué and Action Framework that will shape national and regional policies to promote gender inclusion and institutional reforms across Africa.

Since its inception, the African Women Conference has served as a continental rallying point for women’s empowerment, fostering solidarity and collaboration toward achieving the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Tinubu Extols Dele Alake at 69, Describes Him as Loyal Ally and Patriot

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, on the occasion of his 69th birthday, describing him as a loyal ally, visionary leader, and patriotic Nigerian whose contributions to national growth span decades.

In a congratulatory message released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President commended Dr. Alake for his steadfast commitment to public service, good governance, and national development.

President Tinubu, who recalled his long-standing friendship and collaboration with the Minister, lauded Alake’s remarkable career as a journalist, strategist, and administrator.

He praised his ongoing efforts to reposition the solid minerals sector into a major revenue source for Nigeria through innovative policies, investment promotion, and the formalization of artisanal mining activities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.“

On this special day, I pray that Almighty God continues to bless Dele with good health, wisdom, and strength,” the President said. “He has remained a dependable and loyal ally for several decades.

His unwavering dedication to national progress and public service sets him apart as a true patriot.”

President Tinubu wished Dr. Alake many more years of fruitful service to Nigeria and humanity, noting that his exemplary leadership continues to inspire younger generations in governance and nation-building.

Pay Your Taxes, Enjoy Progress — Wike Tells Abuja Residents

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***Says Tinubu’s Vision Is Transforming FCT into a Global Model City

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has urged residents and business owners in Abuja to pay their taxes faithfully, emphasizing that tax compliance is key to sustaining President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing infrastructure revolution in the nation’s capital.

Speaking at the flag-off of new road and drainage projects in Asokoro Extension on Monday, Wike said the government’s ability to deliver quality roads, drainages, and streetlights depends largely on revenue from taxpayers.

“All these good roads, drainages, and streetlights wouldn’t be possible if you don’t pay your taxes,” the Minister said. “As we say, ‘Dis soup sweet, na money kill am.’ If you don’t have money to buy the right ingredients, the soup won’t taste good. In the same way, if we don’t have funds, we can’t deliver the kind of city Abuja deserves.”

He described tax payment as a shared responsibility that guarantees better living standards for all.

“When you pay your taxes, you’re buying comfort, safety, and pride for Abuja. Let’s all do our part to make this city the pride of the nation,” he added.

Wike noted that the Asokoro project is part of the Renewed Hope infrastructure agenda of President Tinubu’s administration, aimed at transforming Abuja into a world-class city.

“What you see in developed countries isn’t magic it’s the result of leadership commitment. That’s exactly what Mr. President has brought to Abuja,” he said.

The Minister revealed that in just ten days, the FCT Administration had flagged off several projects, including roads, water schemes, and streetlighting, both in the city and satellite towns.

“By the time these projects are completed, Asokoro will rank among the most beautiful districts in Abuja,” he assured.

Wike also highlighted the job creation impact of the ongoing projects, noting that the construction boom has absorbed many young Nigerians.

“Everywhere you go, construction is ongoing and that means jobs for our young people. That’s the Renewed Hope agenda in action,” he said.

He further disclosed that the FCT Administration would soon commence the rehabilitation of 40 schools and roll out new projects in the health sector, continuing the administration’s holistic development approach.

“We’ve touched transport, roads, sports, and education. Now we’re moving to health. No sector will be left untouched,” he stated.

Wike urged residents to remain patient and supportive, noting that infrastructural transformation takes time and resources.

“The Abuja of two years ago is not the same today and by tomorrow, it will be even better,” he concluded.