The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has unveiled bold plans to transform the six Area Councils of the FCT into thriving tourism and investment destinations, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking during the inaugural FCT Area Councils’ Tourism and Hospitality Investment Carnival and Expo at the Cyprian Ekwensi Centre for Arts and Culture, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Mrs. Bunmi Olowookere, said the initiative aims to harness the rich cultural and economic potential of the Area Councils to drive inclusive development and sustainable wealth creation.

“Through the celebration of our indigenous culture, business innovation, and investment opportunities, this administration is determined to ignite economic revitalization, foster inclusive community development, and build pathways to sustainable prosperity,” Dr. Mahmoud stated.

She revealed that under the leadership of Barr. Nyesom Wike, the FCTA has received a presidential directive to reposition the FCT’s culture, tourism, and hospitality sectors to meet global standards. She emphasized that the Area Councils hold the bulk of these untapped assets and must play a central role in this transformation.

Commending the Tourism Department of the Social Development Secretariat for championing the expo, Mahmoud assured that the FCTA would continue to support partnerships and programs that unlock the territory’s tourism potential.

Echoing this commitment, Hon. Aminu Ibrahim, Mandate Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat—represented by Dr. Nasiru Shidali, Director of Administration and Finance—described tourism as a powerful economic driver capable of generating jobs, boosting revenue, and regenerating communities.

“Abuja is one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, and this expo underscores our commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment. The central location of the FCT and its rising population make it a magnet for cultural stakeholders and investors,” he said.

Ibrahim affirmed that the FCT Administration, aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is taking strategic steps to reposition the capital as a cultural and commercial hub on the continent.

In a bold move to deliver healthcare to Nigeria’s most underserved populations, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has inaugurated the management committee for the Renewed Hope Health Connect (RHHC) initiative—a nationwide medical outreach programme targeting vulnerable communities across 55 senatorial districts.

The Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, who presided over the inauguration in Abuja, said the initiative reaffirms the Federal Government’s resolve to advance health equity through direct interventions in hard-to-reach areas.

“Access to quality healthcare remains a significant challenge in many parts of our country, especially in rural and underserved communities,” Dr. Salako noted. “These areas often lack adequate infrastructure, skilled personnel, and essential medical supplies, leading to high maternal and child mortality rates and poor health outcomes.”

Dr. Salako revealed that the RHHC programme has been captured in the 2025 national budget, signaling strong government backing. According to him, medical outreaches have consistently proven to be effective in delivering essential services to vulnerable populations, particularly where conventional health facilities are limited or absent.

The RHHC Management Committee, which Dr. Salako chairs, includes Directors from strategic departments, officials from the Office of the Coordinating Minister, the Permanent Secretary, and the National Eye Health Programme. Also serving are the Minister’s Senior Technical Assistant and Technical Assistant, with Dr. Charles Nzelu, Director of Special Duties, appointed as Secretary.

The committee’s Terms of Reference (ToR) include coordinating the outreach in collaboration with consultants and implementing firms; promoting equitable distribution of services and supplies; and strengthening partnerships with health agencies, NGOs, and community leaders. It will also be responsible for designing constituency-specific action plans with clear timelines and ensuring efficient logistics and procurement processes.

Reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment, Dr. Salako said RHHC represents a “vital step in ensuring no Nigerian is left behind” as the country pursues its national healthcare transformation agenda under the Renewed Hope vision.

****Calls It a Strategic Breakthrough for Mining Sector

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has endorsed the establishment of Africa’s first Department of Gemology and Gemstones at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, describing it as a transformative leap for Nigeria’s mining sector.

Speaking while receiving a delegation from the university led by the department’s pioneer coordinator, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, Dr. Alake hailed the initiative as a “historic milestone” that aligns with the federal government’s drive to build local capacity and expertise in the solid minerals industry.

“By creating an academic hub for gemology and gemstone studies, Yakubu Gowon University is laying a strong foundation for the long-term growth of Nigeria’s mineral value chain,” Alake said. “This will help develop professionals in gemstone identification, valuation, and jewelry production—skills that are critical to unlocking the full value of our mineral wealth.”

Prof. Adesugba praised Dr. Alake for his visionary leadership and called for the Ministry’s support in facilitating a partnership between the department and the Gemological Institute of Nigeria. Such collaboration, he noted, would enrich the department’s curriculum and research capabilities.

In response, Dr. Alake pledged full support for the proposed affiliation, describing it as “a step in the right direction.” He encouraged other institutions to emulate the move by integrating mining-focused programs that cater to national development priorities.

“If we truly want to achieve sustainable progress in the mining sector, we must start by investing in human capital. This department is a strategic intervention—and we are also working toward establishing full-fledged universities of mining nationwide,” he added.

The visiting team included Prof. Aminu Dankishiya, Dean of the Faculty of Science; Dr. Tinuke Temitope, Registrar of the Gemological Institute of Nigeria; and Dr. Aminu Isyaku, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining, among others.

***Says ,We Have Legal Backing to Crush Violators’ Motorcycles

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reiterated its commitment to the enforcement of restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations within Abuja, declaring that its actions—including the impounding and crushing of seized motorbikes—are firmly backed by law.

This assurance was given on Tuesday by the Mandate Secretary of the FCTA Transportation Secretariat, Dr. Chinedum Elechi, during the public crushing of 601 motorcycles impounded for violating operational bans in designated areas of the capital.

“We are acting under valid regulations of the FCT. The most recent regulation, signed into law on January 1, 2023, by the immediate past FCT Minister, Mohammed Bello, clearly prohibits the use of motorcycles in certain areas. It’s illegal to operate them in these locations,” Elechi stated.

He emphasized that the operational restrictions on commercial motorcycles in over 45 locations within Abuja remain in full force and that enforcement would continue relentlessly.

Also speaking at the event, the Director of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), Dr. Abdullateef Bello, confirmed that Tuesday’s crushing exercise—the first of its kind in 2025—serves as a strong deterrent to violators.

“This has been our regular routine to uphold the ban initiated in 2006. Initially aimed at controlling traffic violations, it has now become more crucial due to the use of commercial motorcycles in aiding criminal activities,” Bello said.

He warned investors still venturing into the motorcycle transport business in the restricted areas to “think twice,” as enforcement will be sustained and intensified.

The Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations for the FCT Command, AC Mode Magawata, also weighed in, noting that the ongoing joint enforcement effort has significantly curbed crime in the territory.

“Commercial motorcycles have been used to facilitate various crimes in the FCT. This operation has helped reduce such threats, and we are committed to continuing,” Magawata said.

The FCTA reiterated that all violators will continue to face the full weight of the law, as the administration remains resolute in its mission to sanitize the city and protect residents.

Nigeria’s digital economy has the potential to transform the nation—creating jobs, boosting revenue, and securing the future—but the youth must lead the charge, experts declared at the 18th national seminar of the Association of Applied Information Management Professionals (AAIMP) held Friday, April 25, 2025, in Karu, Abuja.

Delivering the message of Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, his representative Mr. Emmanuel John Kadiya described digital transformation as “the bridge between today’s challenges and tomorrow’s prosperity.”

“For Nigeria to thrive in the global digital economy, our young people must lead the charge,” Gbefwi stated. “Technology is already closing revenue gaps and upgrading infrastructure. You can build a business worth N250 million with just a smartphone. We must start creating global solutions, not just local products.”

Dr. Peter Olumuji, Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, FCT Administration, delivered the keynote, stressing that the world has shifted from traditional systems to digital economies.

“Nigeria is already on this journey with its National Digital Economy Policy,” he said. “Our youth are naturally equipped to drive this transformation. But we must expand broadband infrastructure to reach every part of the country.”

Prof. Haruna Ayuba, Vice Chancellor of Bingham University, described the seminar as timely, urging a focus on emerging tech like blockchain, cloud computing, and big data. “We must reimagine our education system to match global demands. Bingham University is proud to champion digital innovation through research and partnerships,” he said.

Echoing the need for collaboration, Dr. Adabu Suleiman Usman, Dean, Faculty of Computing, Bingham University, warned against fragmented data systems. “We must harmonize data between NIMC, CAC, and others. Our security depends on who controls our data. A unified digital infrastructure is crucial.”

He encouraged youth to adopt predictive analytics and real-time tools, saying, “Data is power. Use it wisely to secure your place in the global economy.”

Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade (Rtd), Chairman of the Centre for Crisis Communication, highlighted the importance of structured digital information in security and emergency response. “Information saves lives. Our digital growth depends on how well we manage and use it,” he said.

Welcoming guests, Dr. Omotola Deji Afuye, President of AAIMP, emphasized the association’s mission to build a knowledge-driven economy. “Structured data and timely information are the backbone of productivity. We are creating a legacy of excellence in information management,” he said.

He also announced AAIMP’s 5th National Conference coming up in July 2025 in Lagos, and encouraged members to remain active in national discourse.

The event ended with the induction of new members, who pledged to uphold professional ethics and support Nigeria’s advancement in the global digital space.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda
reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to enhancing military cooperation with the State of Israel during a recent courtesy visit from Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Ship House, Abuja.

This was contained in a statement signed by Sani Datti For :Director Information and Public Relations.

During their meeting, the two officials discussed strategies for bolstering defence cooperation, strengthening mutual security frameworks, and exploring opportunities for enhanced military training and capacity building within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Ambassador Aduda highlighted the critical need to deepen defence ties in the light of evolving global security challenges. He emphasized the importance of strategic areas such as joint operations, knowledge exchange, and the modernization of defence cooperation. The discussions also included plans to finalize a new bilateral defence agreement aimed at fostering technical collaboration in defence industry development.

“The Ministry will engage in strategic initiatives to replicate successful Israeli military cooperation frameworks in Nigeria, thereby enhancing our national defence architecture,” Ambassador Aduda stated.

In response, Ambassador Michael Freeman expressed gratitude for the audience and underscored the significance of this partnership as a progressive step toward achieving innovative defence solutions. He extended a formal invitation to Ambassador Aduda and his team to visit Israel, with the goal of further strengthening the ties between the two nations.

***“You can’t demand integrity from politicians while hiding skeletons in your own closet” — PILL

League (PILL) has called for the immediate resignation of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mr. Anyiam Osigwe (SAN), and the refund of N300 million allegedly received from suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.

At a press conference held in Abuja on Thursday, PILL President, Dr. Abdul Mahmud, described the scandal as a “sordid betrayal” of public trust and a stain on the moral standing of the legal profession.

“The NBA collected N300 million from a sitting governor and never disclosed it until they were exposed by an external political appointee. Why hide such a transaction from your own members?” Mahmud questioned, referencing a recent demand by Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), for the refund of the money.

Mahmud accused NBA President Osigwe and Conference Planning Committee Chairman, Emeka Obegolu (SAN), of gross misconduct and abuse of office. He demanded their resignation and full repayment of the sum, warning, “This scandal is not about money—it is about integrity, principle, and the soul of the Nigerian Bar.”

PILL criticized the NBA’s claim that the money was a “gift,” adding that the decision to relocate the upcoming conference from Rivers to Enugu was arbitrary and undemocratic.

“The NBA cannot posture as a watchdog of public morality while indulging in backdoor transactions and secrecy,” Mahmud declared. “Silence in the face of financial impropriety is complicity. The only redemption is for Osigwe and Obegolu to resign and return the money to the people of Rivers State.”

…Says PDP is a party of “cabals and personal ambition,” hails APC’s ideological revival

Former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has thrown his weight behind the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a result of the party’s failure to embrace internal democracy and ideological consistency.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja on Thursday, Shaibu described the PDP as a sinking ship, adding that the party’s collapse was inevitable due to what he called “chronic disregard for its constitution and values.”

“I am not surprised by what is happening in the PDP,” Shaibu said. “From the moment I rejoined, I saw cracks. Within six months, I called out the leadership for being undemocratic. I was told to be quiet, but now, everything I warned about is happening.”

He said the ongoing defections—culminating in the mass exit of the Delta State governor, his deputy, and top political figures—are the natural result of the PDP’s abandonment of its founding vision. “The PDP has lost its soul. It’s now about personality cults, not policy or people,” he said.

Shaibu lauded APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, for initiating reforms within the ruling party, including the establishment of a political institute to foster ideological discipline. “This is the way forward,” Shaibu noted. “We must stop building parties around individuals and start investing in political institutions.”

While calling for a new wave of ideological politics in Nigeria, he warned that unless political parties shift from personality-based structures to value-based systems, the country will continue to experience political instability.

“The tragedy of PDP is that a few people’s ambitions have become the entire party’s vision. That is why it is crumbling,” he concluded.

Shaibu’s remarks add to the political tremor shaking Nigeria’s opposition as more PDP heavyweights signal their intention to join the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

…Minimum Wage, Salary Arrears, Allowances to Be Addressed Before May 13 — Keyamo

Relief came Thursday night as unions in the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) agreed to suspend their industrial action following a breakthrough meeting with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who pledged immediate steps to address their demands.

The strike, which entered its second day, had disrupted key operations across the nation’s aviation sector. But after over four hours of negotiations involving union leaders, ministry officials, NiMET and NCAA management, and the Permanent Secretary, the unions agreed to pause the action until May 13, 2025, pending implementation of resolutions.

Keyamo, addressing journalists after the meeting, acknowledged the unions’ concerns as mostly issues of implementation delays and communication gaps. He promised to personally intervene, including writing the President and Finance Minister to expedite approvals.

“We have agreed that I will immediately write to Mr. President and show the unions the acknowledgement copy by Monday or Tuesday. On the minimum wage, NiMET staff will begin receiving the new wage from their next allowance,” he assured.

Comrade Aba Ocheme, National Secretary of NUATE, and Comrade Alale Adedayo, National President of ANAP, confirmed the union’s decision to suspend the strike out of respect for the minister’s sincerity and commitment to resolving their grievances.

The union’s demands included the implementation of the 2019 and 2024 consequential adjustments, immediate payment to 30 staff previously omitted, salary relativity, hardship allowances