The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced a series of robust measures to address the growing challenges of vandalism, scavenging, and robbery within the capital city. These decisions were reached at the 2025 inaugural Security Council meeting, chaired by the Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike.
Harsher Penalties for Vandals
In a decisive move to protect public infrastructure, the FCTA declared that individuals caught vandalizing public property will now face charges of economic sabotage. Depending on the severity of the crime, offenders could also face charges of attempted murder or murder.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, criticized the previous penalties, stating they were insufficient to deter such activities. “Many of these criminals are fined as little as ₦2,000 or given 24 strokes of the cane. This does nothing to deter them. Going forward, we will charge them with economic sabotage and, in severe cases, attempted murder or murder,” he said.
CP Disu underscored the risks posed by vandalism, particularly the removal of manhole covers, which often results in fatal accidents. “This is not just about infrastructure—it’s about lives. Imagine driving at night and falling into an open manhole,” he stressed.
Crackdown on Scrap Metal Dealers and Scavengers
To curb the role of scrap metal dealers and scavengers in enabling vandalism, the FCTA has suspended the operations of Pantekas (scrap metal markets) for two weeks to allow for a thorough profiling of operators.
Additionally, scavenging activities have been restricted to designated dump sites outside the city center and suburban areas. “Scavengers must limit their activities to dump sites. They have no business in the city center or residential areas,” CP Disu declared.
Progress in Tackling “One Chance” Robberies
The police have reported significant achievements in reducing “one chance” robberies, recovering 21 operational vehicles used by criminals in 2024. CP Disu emphasized the effectiveness of intelligence-driven patrols and assured the public of continued efforts to combat this menace.
“These criminals often use fully tinted vehicles, making it difficult for victims to seek help. We will maintain our proactive strategies to reduce these crimes,” he stated. He further clarified that such acts are treated as armed robbery or, in some cases, kidnapping under the law.
Update on Bwari Bomb Blast Investigation
Regarding the recent bomb blast in Bwari, CP Disu assured residents that investigations are ongoing. “We are doing everything possible to unravel the matter. When the time is right, I will provide an update on our findings,” he assured.
Call for Community Collaboration
The FCTA urged residents to take ownership of public infrastructure and report suspicious activities to authorities. “If you see something, say something. Let’s join hands to protect what belongs to all of us,” CP Disu appealed.
Commitment to Safety and Development
These measures underscore the FCTA’s determination to create a secure, modern, and inclusive Federal Capital Territory. Residents are encouraged to support these efforts by cooperating with authorities to safeguard lives and public assets.
Condemnation By Aderogba George Abuja, Jan. 10, 2025 (NAN) The National Online Safety Coalition (#FWDwithFacts campaign) has condemned Meta’s recent decision to end partnerships with third-party fact-checkers and significantly weaken content moderation across its platforms.
The condemnation is contained in a statement signed by 20 Non-Governmental Organisation (NGOs) which comprise the coalition, and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Friday.
The NGOs are Gatefield Impact, Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa), Humangle, Dataphyte Foundation, Tech Hive Advisory and Digital Rights Civic Interactions Initiative.
Others are Paradigm Initiative, Technology Policy Advisory, Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) and Media Rights Agenda (MRA).
Also in the list of the signee are Global Rights, CLEEN Foundation, Ekap Achip Foundation, FactCheck Africa and Safernet Initiative.
The signee also include Tech HER, YandyTech Community, Connected Development, DPO360 Africa, Centre for Community Empowerment in Conflict and Peacebuilding
According to the coalition, the recent action by meta endangers Africans lives and democracy, while calling on the Nigerian government and African leaders to take immediate action on the issue.
The coalition said that the recent meta’s decision will bring trouble on a global scale, saying that this decision is particularly problematic for Nigeria and Africa,.
It said that unchecked misinformation and purposefully orchestrated disinformation campaigns have already cost lives and destabilized communities in Nigeria particularly.
“Meta’s actions signal a troubling shift among big tech companies where permissive policies are prioritised over accountability.
“This trend threatens global stability and poses especially severe risks to regions like Nigeria and Africa, where misinformation and disinformation has violent consequences.
“In Nigeria, false information has led to violence, division, and even deaths. This was evidenced during the 2023 elections when lies about candidates fueled ethnic and religious tensions, with fact-checkers reporting up to 100,000 false claims daily on social media.
“In 2018, a fake photo posted on Facebook was viewed 11,000 times, sparking an ethnic conflict in Plateau State, Nigeria, leading to the tragic deaths of twelve people. Without fact-checking, these harmful stories can spread even faster and do more harm.
“Social media platforms are deeply embedded in Nigeria’s information ecosystem —there are close to 42 million Facebook users in Nigeria and over 50 million on WhatsApp, —and these have been powerful tools for connection and expression.
“These platforms have also been channels for the rapid spread of misinformation, propaganda, and hate speech,” the coalition said.
It said by dismantling fact-checking mechanisms, Meta is enabling a resurgence of these dangerous dynamics with real-world consequences that go far beyond online discourse.
It stated that Fact-checking is not censorship, adding that in fragile contexts like Nigeria’s, Zuckerberg’s argument that fact-checkers destroy trust is baseless and harmful.
It stated that fact-checking ensures informed public discourse and prevents escalations of false information and misinformation, while calling for stepup of regulators in Africa.
The coalition said that Nigeria and other African nations are at critical junctures in the practice of participatory governance, platforms retreating from the fight against misinformation invite election interference consequently inciting violence, and eroding societal trust.
According to the coalition, the stakes are high, and that it is critical that regulators take action now.
The statement also quoted Shirley Ewang, Advocacy Lead at Gatefield, and the campaign spokesperson for the coalition as saying that it is time to set clear rules for Big Tech, and hold them accountable to protect citizens from the dangers of false information in the interest of democracy, stability and social cohesion
The Coalition called on the Nigerian government and African leaders to take immediate action and mandate transparency from a tech platform like meta publicly publish their strategies for managing misinformation and harmful content in Nigeria.
The coalition urged authorities in the Africa region to establish legal frameworks that hold Tech Platforms responsible for enabling the spread of harmful content.
It called for partnership with civil society organizations to educate Nigerians on identifying fake news, understanding the risks involved with spreading fake news, and engaging responsibly with digital platforms.
The coalition called for development of policy guidelines in consultation with civil society to create local and culturally contextual content-moderation guidelines to prevent the replication and expansion of these harmful policy changes in Africa.
It said big tech with billions of users platforms must take responsibility to safeguard the integrity of public discourse, saying that they have wield immense power over the global flow of information.
According to the coalition, If this policy can harm the United States, a country with stronger democratic protection, it poses an even greater threat to countries like Nigeria where misinformation has already proven to be deadly.
It said the National Online Safety Coalition called on Meta to act responsibly, adding that It must not only sustain its fact-checking programme in Africa, but implement stricter content-moderation policies.
“African governments, starting with Nigeria, must take steps to protect their citizens from the ripple effects of these reckless policy shifts. (NAN)(www.nannews.
Pastor Amos Okemuyiwa, Provincial Pastor of FCT Province 1 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has called on believers to transcend superficial religiosity and distractions, emphasizing the necessity of a deeper relationship with God.
In a sermon titled “Divine Encounter,” Pastor Okemuyiwa underscored the transformative power of encounters with God, urging individuals to seek moments that can redefine their destinies. He drew from the biblical account of Moses’ encounter with God at the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-6), explaining that such experiences disrupt the status quo and bring supernatural solutions.
Encounters: A Catalyst for Purpose
Pastor Okemuyiwa described divine encounters as pivotal events that propel individuals into their divine purpose, transforming preparation into groundbreaking achievements. “Encounters define and redirect destinies. Whether you are a worker, a businessman, or a leader, a divine encounter is what propels you into significance,” he stated.
He highlighted that these moments are intentional, often marking individuals for extraordinary accomplishments. Drawing from scripture, he reminded the congregation of Jesus’ selection of three disciples for transformative experiences, emphasizing that such encounters set people apart. “Those who have had encounters are always different. You have to be different,” he said.
Faith as the Key to Encounters
Faith, according to Pastor Okemuyiwa, is the cornerstone of experiencing divine encounters. “Faith positions you for God’s visitation and ensures you are ready for the changes it brings. Tell your friends, God is working beyond limits,” he encouraged.
Prophetic Declaration for 2025
Looking ahead, Pastor Okemuyiwa declared 2025 as a year of permanent encounters for all believers. He prophesied breakthroughs in every aspect of life—spiritual, physical, and material—and prayed for lives marked by undeniable evidence of God’s hand.
“This year, you will experience breakthroughs spiritually, physically, and materially. May your life be marked by undeniable evidence of God’s hand,” he proclaimed.
Call to Action
Concluding his message, Pastor Okemuyiwa issued a heartfelt challenge to the congregation. “This is not a year for stories but for encounters. Seek God earnestly, and He will meet you at your point of need,” he urged.
The sermon left worshippers inspired to seek deeper spiritual experiences, underscoring the transformative impact of divine encounters and the call to step into a new dimension of purpose and faith.
About the Author Dr. Oluseun Adediran (British-Nigerian Manufacturing and Oil & Gas Expert UK-Based) is a highly skilled chartered mechanical and marine engineer, and registered with UK Engineering council, holding a PhD in mechanical engineering. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) in the UK, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), and the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (FNIMechE).
Oluseun is currently Lead Engineer (Global Technical Lead) – OE Packaging for Clyde Union Pumps UK, part of Celeros Flow Technology. Dr Adediran is the pioneering Chair of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the founder of the British Nigerian Professionals United Kingdom, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting educational, technology and engineering excellence, with a particular focus on supporting individuals from Black and minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds.
Introductions: This article delves into how Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are being applied within manufacturing firms, with a particular emphasis on the benefits and incentives of incorporating AI into production processes.
How can Nigerian manufacture cheaper, faster and higher quality?
The application of AI technologies into manufacturing in Nigeria can lead to significant time savings, particularly within the production process. One of the primary advantages of AI adoption is its ability to enhance long-term time efficiency. AI can dramatically accelerate tasks such as initial analysis and complex data processing, aiding companies in streamlining decision-making and increasing operational efficiency.
By automating repetitive tasks and optimizing workflows, AI ensures that production line operations are faster and more efficient. This not only expedites the manufacturing process but also improves the speed at which products are delivered to the Nigeria market. AI can significantly enhance production speed by automating tasks and deploying robots, allowing engineers and workers to dedicate their time to creative work rather than repetitive tasks in Nigeria.
A critical factor in this accelerated speed is substituting human workers with AI-controlled robots on the production line. These robots can operate continuously without breaks, substantially increasing manufacturing speed. With advanced AI, robots perform tasks with greater accuracy and consistency than humans, working relentlessly without rest. This results in higher overall efficiency and swifter attainment of production targets with minimal downtime.
Additionally, AI-controlled robots can swiftly adapt to new tasks and processes, easily reprogrammed to handle different aspects of production. This adaptability not only accelerates production but also facilitates quicker launches of new products and innovations, making the manufacturing process more flexible and responsive to evolving needs.
The application of AI technologies in Nigeria would enable the real-time monitoring and adjustment of robot performance. By analyzing data and identifying inefficiencies, AI systems can make immediate adjustments, ensuring the production line operates at peak efficiency.
The applications of the AI can significantly cut down the time employees spend on repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on creative and higher-value work. By automating tasks such as data entry, scheduling, and responding to common customer queries, AI makes these processes faster and more accurate. Consequently, employees can dedicate their efforts to critical and innovative tasks like refining ideas or enhancing designs.
Furthermore, AI’s quick data analysis provides insights that support better decision-making. By handling routine work, AI boosts productivity and creates opportunities for employees to learn, grow, and find more enjoyment in their roles. AI technologies have advanced significantly in optimizing maintenance schedules, playing a crucial role in the industry. By predicting maintenance needs and avoiding unnecessary part replacements, AI enhances production speed and minimizes downtime. Advanced predictive maintenance algorithms analyze data from sensors and historical performance records to forecast when equipment might fail or require servicing. This proactive approach enables companies to schedule maintenance during planned downtimes, avoiding unexpected breakdowns. As a result, AI minimizes unplanned outages and maintains efficient production lines.
AI identifies which parts genuinely require maintenance, preventing unnecessary repairs and reducing operational costs. This targeted approach allows for a dynamic, need-based maintenance plan rather than rigid schedules, ensuring optimal servicing of each component. Beyond predictive maintenance, AI optimizes the entire maintenance workflow by planning schedules and ordering parts in advance, minimizing delays due to parts or technician availability. This streamlined process helps machinery return to operation quickly, boosting production speed.
Additionally, AI enhances overall machinery health and efficiency by continuously monitoring equipment performance, detecting early signs of damage, and recommending minor adjustments before they become major issues. This proactive monitoring extends equipment lifespan and maintains high productivity levels. AI technologies have significantly advanced production planning and product design optimization, making them essential in modern industries. In production planning, AI improves demand forecasting by analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and other factors to accurately predict future demand.
This alignment ensures production schedules match market needs, preventing overproduction or underproduction. AI-powered scheduling tools enhance efficiency by creating optimal schedules that consider constraints such as equipment availability, labor shifts, and maintenance needs, leading to smoother operations and fewer delays. Additionally, AI enhances supply chain management by improving visibility and coordination, ensuring raw materials and components are available when needed, reducing bottlenecks, and maintaining steady production flow. In product design, AI enables generative design, allowing designers to explore numerous options based on specific criteria and constraints, resulting in innovative solutions that balance performance, cost, and manufacturability.
AI also facilitates detailed simulation and testing of product designs under various conditions, predicting performance and identifying potential flaws early in the design process. This reduces reliance on physical prototypes and accelerates product development. AI also analyzes customer feedback from reviews, surveys, and social media to understand preferences and identify issues. This feedback improves product designs to better meet customer needs. By integrating AI-driven product design optimization, feedback analysis, and production planning, companies create a streamlined workflow that enhances overall efficiency. This approach allows real-time adjustments to production plans based on changes in design, demand, or resource availability.
How can AI enhance manufacturing cost reduction?
AI tools can significantly reduce costs by leveraging advanced algorithms and real-time monitoring to eliminate unnecessary expenses across the entire supply chain. Data gathered from interviewees highlights the vital role of AI in lowering production costs. Open-source AI algorithms offer an affordable development approach, providing a strong foundation that can be customized to meet specific manufacturing needs, without the high costs of proprietary software. This approach not only lowers initial development expenses but also offers greater flexibility and adaptability as manufacturing processes evolve.
Moreover, the hardware requirements for deploying AI solutions are relatively modest, further reducing the overall investment needed. Interview data indicates that open-source AI algorithms provide a cost-effective solution for development. They allow for customization tailored to specific manufacturing needs, avoiding the high costs associated with proprietary software. This approach not only cuts development costs but also adapts as manufacturing processes change. Moreover, some AI solutions require lower capital expenditures compared to traditional methods, which typically demand significant investments in installation and ongoing maintenance.
AI technologies are flexible and scalable, enabling companies to implement them incrementally, based on specific needs and budgets, thereby reducing upfront costs. AI tools also play a critical role in reducing costs while improving sustainability by optimizing energy usage. With advanced algorithms and real-time monitoring, AI can analyze and adjust energy consumption, minimizing waste, lowering energy bills, and reducing carbon emissions. For instance, AI systems can automatically regulate heating, cooling, and lighting according to real-time data, ensuring more efficient energy usage in manufacturing.
Additionally, AI-driven energy management systems can identify peak usage times and suggest strategies to shift consumption to off-peak hours, reducing both costs and emissions. In maintenance management, AI helps companies perform maintenance only when necessary, cutting down on unnecessary activities and reducing costs. AI identifies which components require servicing and which do not, preventing the premature replacement of functioning parts. This approach saves resources and minimizes expenses associated with purchasing and installing new components. AI also optimizes the maintenance process by predicting the parts and tools required, allowing companies to order them in advance and in the right quantities, preventing overstocking or emergency orders.
Continuous monitoring by AI also helps detect small issues before they escalate into major problems, enabling cheaper, smaller repairs instead of costly breakdowns. This proactive approach significantly lowers long-term maintenance costs. AI also helps lower inventory costs by improving inventory management and demand forecasting. AI-driven analytics ensure materials and products are available when needed, preventing both overstocking and understocking. This minimizes excess costs while ensuring efficient inventory levels. AI technologies also help manage costs related to labor and employee turnover. By automating routine tasks, AI enables employees to focus on more meaningful and valuable work, which can boost job satisfaction and reduce turnover. This, in turn, saves on the costs of hiring and training new staff. Moreover, AI can address labor shortages by taking over tasks that are difficult to fill, ensuring that productivity remains steady.
How to leverage on AI in manufacturing for quality enhancement
AI offers significant advantages to manufacturing, especially in enhancing quality through advanced vision systems. These AI-driven systems automate image analysis for quality control, reducing the need for manual inspections and minimizing errors. By automating the inspection process, AI ensures consistent product quality while generating substantial cost savings by eliminating the need for manual checks. Moreover, AI, especially when using Deep Learning-based vision systems, significantly cuts down on false alarms and enhances the accuracy of defect detection. Traditional vision systems often generate numerous false positives, leading to unnecessary rework and elevated production costs. In contrast, AI-powered systems provide more reliable quality checks, flagging only genuinely defective products. This improved accuracy helps reduce waste and rework, resulting in cost savings, better product quality, and improved sustainability.
Overall, integrating AI into manufacturing processes results in superior product quality and positions manufacturers for long-term success in a competitive market.
How can Nigeria leverage on AI to enhance and maintain competitiveness in the manufacturing sector?
AI-powered systems can analyze data with remarkable accuracy, identifying potential defects or inconsistencies early in the manufacturing process. By providing real-time insights, AI helps Nigeria companies make informed decisions that improve quality control and ensure products meet high standards and customer expectations. Additionally, AI optimizes processes to reduce errors and variations, ensuring consistent quality across production lines. As a result, strategically adopting AI boosts competitiveness and customer satisfaction, positioning companies for long-term success in the Nigeria market. To remain competitive, Nigeria manufacturing companies must embrace AI technologies and develop AI-related skills. As full automation becomes the ultimate goal, even traditional manufacturers must become adept at software.
Transitioning to a software-driven approach is critical to maintaining a competitive edge. Achieving full automation requires the use of AI technologies, custom agents, and robots to replace manual processes with digital solutions. In Nigeria, where the manufacturing industry is still undergoing development and advancement, it is essential for companies to integrate AI strategically in ways that align with their specific needs. Staying ahead of the competition demands a commitment to innovation and adopting new technologies. For leading companies across diverse product sectors, leveraging AI and other cutting-edge technologies is crucial for sustaining and enhancing their competitive advantage.
The Joint Committee of the Senate and House on Solid Minerals has rejected the proposed ₦9 billion budget for the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, calling for a substantial upward review to align with Nigeria’s economic diversification goals.
At a joint session on Friday in Abuja, Senator Ekong Sampson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, criticized the allocation as grossly inadequate. “At a time when the country is grappling with the urgent need to diversify the economy, the budgetary allocation to the solid minerals sector is grossly insufficient. The current estimates will not support the ambitious roadmap laid out by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development,” he stated.
Increased Investment as a National Imperative
Senator Sampson emphasized the strategic importance of the sector, urging bold investments in exploration, data gathering, and infrastructure. “Nigeria is richly endowed with abundant mineral resources. However, without bold steps to harness these resources, we will continue to fall short of our economic goals. If we are serious about diversification, this is the sector we must prioritize,” he added.
Similarly, Hon. Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, highlighted the risks of insufficient funding. “The global energy transition is already underway, and Nigeria risks being left behind if we do not act decisively. Solid minerals hold the key to diversifying our economy, yet the current budget allocation does not reflect the urgency of this moment,” he argued.
Concerns Over Budget Discrepancies
Senator Diket Plang raised concerns about possible discrepancies in the ministry’s budget, pointing to an allocation listed as ₦9 million that might have been intended as ₦900 billion. “The function of the ministry is to identify and exploit the country’s riches through exploration. Any error in this process could jeopardize the critical work of adding value to Nigeria’s economy,” he warned.
Senator Natasha Akpoti of Kogi Central District underscored the global importance of minerals like lithium and nickel in advancing technological development and smart energy solutions. She called for accountability on revenues from these resources and updates on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s gold purchases. “Solid minerals like lithium and nickel are at the core of the global shift towards smart energy solutions. Nigeria must prioritize this sector over oil and gas to remain competitive,” she emphasized.
Minister Alake Calls for Bold Investments
Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, backed the lawmakers’ demands for increased funding. “The current budget of ₦500 billion is just a starting point, far from what is truly required to transform the solid minerals sector. We must take bold steps to capitalize on our vast mineral wealth,” he stated.
Alake reiterated the ministry’s commitment to sustainable economic growth, noting that increased funding would attract investments, create jobs, and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on oil.
The Path Forward
The session concluded with a unanimous call for a revised budget that reflects the sector’s potential. Lawmakers stressed that aligning funding with the solid minerals sector’s strategic importance would generate significant revenue and create jobs, securing Nigeria’s place in the global energy transition.
The Joint Committee resolved to engage stakeholders and the Federal Government to ensure that the sector receives adequate funding to drive Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has expressed satisfaction with the progress made in revitalizing Nigeria’s mining sector, describing recent reforms as pivotal for achieving long-term sustainability and economic growth.
Speaking to journalists after a joint committee session evaluating the sector’s progress in Abuja on Friday, Alake dismissed concerns that the ministry’s ambitions were overly modest. “I feel quite elated and happy with the outcome. The notion that the ministry’s ambitions were too small for the objectives we have set out was decisively dismissed,” he stated.
Highlights of the Seven-Point Agenda
The minister detailed significant strides over the past year, driven by the ministry’s seven-point agenda, which includes:
Establishment of the Nigerian Mining Company (NMC): Modeled after the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) company, the NMC aims to ensure efficient management of solid minerals. President Bola Tinubu has approved the company’s formation, with its ownership structure divided into 50% private sector equity, 25% government equity, and 25% for individual Nigerian investors.
Aggressive Marketing: Efforts to attract both local and international investments in the sector.
Formalizing Artisanal Mining: Over 250 artisanal mining cooperatives have been formalized, enabling them to access funding, expand operations, and integrate technology.
Enforcement through Mining Marshals: The deployment of mining marshals has led to the arrest and prosecution of over 300 illegal operators, including foreign nationals. “This speaks to the efficiency of our enforcement mechanisms,” the minister noted.
Combating Illegal Mining
Dr. Alake outlined a two-pronged approach to curbing illegal mining: persuasion and coercion. He emphasized the ministry’s success in formalizing artisanal miners, a move that has made their operations legitimate and bankable.
“By encouraging artisanal miners to form cooperatives, we have not only formalized their activities but also made them bankable. This allows them to access funding to enhance their operations, expand, and integrate technology,” he explained.
The introduction of mining marshals has also strengthened enforcement efforts, ensuring compliance with regulations. “Over 300 illegal operators have been arrested, and some, including foreign nationals, have been convicted,” the minister revealed.
Structural and Economic Reforms
The minister announced that the Nigerian Mining Company, once operational, will be midwifed by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) before transitioning to private-sector leadership. He emphasized that the company’s ownership structure is designed to prevent political interference and ensure sustainability.
“Our goal is to leave a legacy. This structure ensures that future administrations cannot interfere with the company’s operations,” Alake stated.
Commitment to Transparency and Growth
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Alake reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a transparent and investor-friendly mining sector.
“This is about creating a system that thrives beyond this administration, positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global mining industry,” he said.
The reforms highlight the ministry’s dedication to driving economic diversification, strengthening enforcement mechanisms, and creating a mining industry that benefits all Nigerians.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, has rebuked former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, over his assertion that road construction projects in the FCT do not constitute development.
Olayinka, in a statement on Friday, described Dalung’s remarks as “a dire exhibition of a mind transitioning from psychology to psychosis,” criticizing the former minister for what he termed a “jaundiced and unfortunate” understanding of development.
Dalung, during a live television appearance, had argued that road construction does not impact the general well-being of Nigerians, claiming that many citizens do not own vehicles and therefore cannot benefit from such projects.
FCT Road Projects as Pillars of Development
Responding to these claims, Olayinka highlighted several road projects undertaken by the administration of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, emphasizing their transformative impact on the lives of residents.
Projects such as the Saburi–Dei Dei road, the 5km Dutse-Usuma Dam road, and the War College/Army Checkpoint road were identified as critical to improving connectivity within the Bwari Area Council. In addition, the 25km Kwaita/Yebu road in Kwali Area Council, the 11km Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road, and the 9km Paikon Kore/Ibwa road were cited as key infrastructure developments.
“In Dalung’s estimation, even these projects, when completed, will not serve any developmental purpose. It is shocking that someone with such a shallow understanding of development was once a minister,” Olayinka stated.
He also referenced other vital projects, including the 12km Kabusa–Ketti road, the 7km Kabusa–Takushara road, and the 15km road from the Abuja-Lokoja junction to Pia in Kwali Area Council. These projects, he stressed, are designed to connect satellite towns and enhance the quality of life for residents.
Criticism of Dalung’s Tenure
Olayinka did not hold back in criticizing Dalung’s tenure as sports minister, describing it as “monumentally disastrous.” He recalled incidents such as Dalung’s dismissive remarks about the delayed allowances of the Super Falcons during the 2016 African Women Championship and his controversial comments on the Rio 2016 Olympics soccer team.
“Considering his track record, one should not be surprised at his wild comments. However, the concern of Nigerians, especially those close to him, should be his mental health, which increasingly appears to require urgent attention,” Olayinka concluded.
Reinforcing the FCT’s Development Agenda
The statement underscores the FCT administration’s commitment to road development as a cornerstone of infrastructural growth, directly challenging Dalung’s controversial views. Olayinka reiterated that the ongoing road projects are integral to improving the economy, connectivity, and overall well-being of FCT residents.
Calls for Urgent Funding of Capital Projects to Spur Development
Don’t Let Nigeria Suffer the Fate of Germany, France – Wale Edun Warns
The National Assembly has expressed dissatisfaction with the 43% execution rate of capital projects in the 2024 budget, describing it as inadequate to drive economic and infrastructural development.
During a joint sitting of the Senate and House Committees on Appropriations and the Presidential Economic Team, lawmakers criticized the disparity between recurrent and capital expenditure, urging the Ministry of Finance to urgently release funds to improve capital project implementation.
The report presented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, revealed that while recurrent expenditure achieved 100% execution, capital expenditure stood at only 25%.
Lawmakers Call for Balanced Budget Allocation Senator Solomon Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, advocated for a reduction in the recurrent-to-capital expenditure ratio from the current 80:20 to at least 60:40.
“Capital releases to MDAs are the major drivers of economic activities within the nation. Non-release of funds for capital projects is a major issue in the performance of the 2024 Budget so far,” Adeola said. He stressed the importance of releasing funds to prevent abandoned projects and ensure the success of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Hon. Abubakar Birchi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation, emphasized the critical role of capital projects like schools, roads, hospitals, and dams in directly impacting over 200 million Nigerians.
“Recurrent expenditure benefits only a small fraction of the population, while capital projects address the broader needs of our people,” Birchi noted, suggesting that debt repayment items could be restructured to free up funds.
Warnings from the Finance Minister Wale Edun warned against returning to unsustainable spending practices that could lead to economic repercussions similar to those in France and Germany.
“There are warrants awaiting payment for capital projects, but we must avoid the backlash of spending money that is not there,” Edun stated.
Legacy Challenges and Reforms Minister of Budget and Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, attributed the high recurrent expenditure to developmental challenges and the military’s campaign against insecurity. He noted that these efforts have improved agricultural and economic activities.
The Director General of the Budget Office, Dr. Tanimu Yakubu, pointed to inherited obligations such as unpaid pensions and gratuities as significant contributors to recurrent costs. Yakubu also called for legislation to cap recurrent expenditure in future budgets.
Next Steps The meeting, attended by key officials including the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, and permanent secretaries from the Ministries of Finance and Budget, also discussed revenue challenges stemming from waivers and tax holidays.
Lawmakers and the economic team agreed on the urgency of addressing these imbalances to ensure the 2025 Appropriation Bill delivers on the administration’s promises of economic growth and improved infrastructure.
The National Assembly reiterated its commitment to working with the executive to address fiscal challenges and ensure that future budgets prioritize the well-being of Nigerians.
Security agencies in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have apprehended several individuals suspected of stealing sewage manhole covers along major highways in Abuja. Efforts are ongoing to identify and capture their collaborators, including buyers of the stolen items.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Mr. Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant (Public Communications and New Media) to the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike condemned the act, labeling it a grave threat to public safety and road users.
“It is disheartening that while the government spends public funds to provide amenities for Nigerians, some criminally minded individuals remove these amenities and sell them, disregarding the danger their actions pose to fellow citizens,” the Minister stated.
Government’s Commitment to Justice
Barr. Wike assured the public that the FCT Administration is committed to ensuring that those involved face the full force of the law. He also emphasized that buyers of the stolen manhole covers would not go unpunished, describing their actions as economic sabotage and a betrayal of public trust.
Commendation of Civic Responsibility
The Minister praised the actions of a patriotic Nigerian who recorded and shared a video exposing the theft. He described this as a commendable act of civic responsibility and called on other citizens to emulate such vigilance.
“The effort of this individual demonstrates the patriotism our country needs. It is through such actions that we can collectively tackle societal vices and build a safer, more secure community,” Wike said.
Call for Collective Action
The FCT Administration has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to vandalism and urged residents to remain vigilant. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities to security agencies as part of a collective effort to safeguard public infrastructure.
The Minister also directed relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to end the menace of manhole cover thefts, promising to keep the public updated on progress.
This decisive action underlines the administration’s resolve to protect public infrastructure and ensure a safer environment for all Abuja residents.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has identified Abuja Steel Company, an iron smelting firm located along the Abuja-Kaduna Road, as a suspected recipient of stolen manhole covers in the nation’s capital.
In a statement issued on Monday by Mr. Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant (Public Communications and New Media) to the FCT Minister, it was revealed that “exhibits of interest” have been recovered from the company and are currently in police custody.
“Further investigations are ongoing to determine the company’s involvement, along with others, in the removal, purchase, and melting of the stolen manhole covers,” the statement read.
Recent Arrests and Recoveries
Security agencies, including the Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have recently made significant progress in combating the theft of public infrastructure. Multiple arrests have been made, and several stolen manhole covers have been recovered.
According to the statement, the arrested suspects have been providing valuable information to authorities about the buyers of the stolen infrastructure, shedding light on the chain of illegal activities contributing to the vandalism.
Restoration Efforts
In response to the growing menace, the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate replacement of stolen manhole covers. The replacement exercise, which began on Sunday, underscores the administration’s dedication to restoring and protecting critical public infrastructure.
Zero Tolerance for Vandalism
The FCT Administration has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on vandalism, warning that individuals and organizations found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
“The administration is committed to ensuring the security and functionality of Abuja’s infrastructure and will leave no stone unturned in holding those responsible accountable,” the statement emphasized.
Public Call to Action
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities to security agencies and remain vigilant to safeguard public assets. This proactive approach aims to foster a collective effort to combat vandalism and preserve the integrity of Abuja’s public infrastructure.
The ongoing investigation into Abuja Steel Company and other suspected buyers sends a strong message about the administration’s resolve to deter such illegal practices and uphold public trust.
