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Wike Fumes Over Unauthorized ICC Contract Sublet, Summons Officials

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***“No sacred cow, I’ll apply the big stick if foul play is confirmed,” says FCT Minister

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has summoned top officials of the FCT Administration and representatives of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc following reports that a portion of the International Conference Centre (ICC) rehabilitation contract was sublet without his approval.

Wike, who inspected the ICC project and the N16 road in Gishiri over the weekend, expressed displeasure upon learning that the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) had allegedly handed over the furnishing of the ICC conference hall to a separate contractor.

“I was surprised to hear there’s a different contractor handling the furniture. That’s unacceptable. Julius Berger was awarded the entire job—we cannot have mixed quality standards within the same facility,” Wike stated.

He confirmed summoning the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA, the Managing Director of AICL, and Julius Berger, demanding explanations on who authorized the deviation from the original contract.

“I approved the project and know the cost involved. If AICL took over part of the work, who authorized it and who’s paying? If any shady deal occurred, I will not hesitate to apply the big stick. No one is above scrutiny,” he warned.

While expressing concern over the contract issue, Wike praised the quality and pace of work on both sites, stating that contractors are working around the clock to meet deadlines ahead of President Tinubu’s second anniversary.

“From the reports I’ve received, the contractors are working day and night. I’m confident the projects will be ready as scheduled. Residents in these areas can already see the transformation,” he added.

Wike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and timely delivery of public infrastructure across the FCT.

NCoS Denies Reported Bomb Explosion at Maiduguri Custodial Centre

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has firmly denied reports circulating online about an alleged bomb explosion at the Maiduguri Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Borno State, describing the claims as false, misleading, and entirely unfounded.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Controller of Corrections Umar Abubakar, clarified that there was no security breach or disturbance at the facility, and operations remain calm and uninterrupted.

“The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service has been drawn to an online report alleging a bomb explosion at the Maiduguri Custodial Centre. The report is false and misleading. The situation at the centre is calm and stable,” the statement read.

Abubakar further confirmed that inmates at the facility are continuing their rehabilitation programs without any disruption, emphasizing that no such incident occurred.

“There has been no security breach in any of our custodial centres nationwide. The public is advised to disregard the fake report,” he added.

The Service urged media outlets and the general public to verify information from credible sources to avoid unnecessary panic and misinformation.

Tinubu Merely the Mascot of Bad Governance – Adebayo

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***Slams Rising Insecurity, Rivers Political Crisis, Says 2027 Will Not Be Business as Usual

Legal luminary and former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has delivered a scathing critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of presiding over worsening insecurity and a dysfunctional governance system.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja during a private event to mark his wife’s 50th birthday, Adebayo said President Tinubu has become nothing more than a “mascot of bad governance,” as insecurity, political instability, and economic hardship continue to escalate under his watch.

“What shocks me is that Nigerians are still shocked by Tinubu’s governance. We’ve always known that these people take elections seriously, but not governance,” Adebayo stated pointedly.

He described the deteriorating security situation as evidence of a systemic failure led by an unprepared leadership.

“The incompetence of President Tinubu and his security team speaks for itself. If the president were truly serious, he would return home and confront these issues head-on,” he said.

On the deepening political turmoil in Rivers State, Adebayo rejected the idea of an emergency rule, describing the ongoing crisis as a betrayal of democratic norms and a constitutional aberration.

“This so-called emergency, where elected officials are being stripped of their mandate, is unconstitutional. The solution is clear—restore the people’s mandate or conduct a fresh, credible election,” he insisted.

According to Adebayo, the Rivers political standoff is the result of a failed power-sharing conspiracy, not a governance structure built in the interest of the people.

Taking aim at state governors, the former SDP flagbearer said many are equally culpable, describing them as disconnected from their constitutional responsibilities and complicit in the overall governance failures.

“When the president sings the solo of incompetence, the governors join in the chorus. They are all singing bad songs,” he quipped.

While voicing support for the idea of state police, Adebayo said most governors lack the competence and authority to manage internal security effectively.

“The governors are mostly ceremonial leaders, powerless when it comes to security. They don’t understand what it means to govern,” he lamented.

Adebayo called on citizens to abandon political idolatry and instead focus on reclaiming governance from failed elites.

“Don’t waste time praying for politicians to succeed or fail. What matters is when we will have a government that truly emerges from the people and works in their interest,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to become the real opposition, insisting that meaningful change can only come from the people, not recycled political players.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Adebayo declared that the SDP will again present a credible platform, but warned that the party would not serve as a safe haven for disgruntled elements fleeing other political camps.

“We will contest in 2027. But we won’t be a getaway car for those seeking revenge or compensation for broken political promises. SDP is not for political mercenaries,” he emphasized.

He reaffirmed that the SDP remains committed to integrity, people-focused governance, and a clean break from politics as usual.

On a lighter note, when asked about his wife, the celebrant of the day, Adebayo offered a warm tribute:
“My wife is a blessing. She’s my greatest personal achievement—she helped me grow from a boy to a man.”

Biotechnology is Nigeria’s Health Game-Changer – Salako

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***FG Dismisses GMO Safety Fears, Rallies Support for Science-Driven Health Policies

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to using biotechnology as a catalyst for transforming healthcare delivery in the country. He also dispelled persistent public fears over the safety of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), urging Nigerians to embrace the scientific advancements that biotechnology offers.

Speaking at a sensitization workshop on Biotechnology and Biosafety held Tuesday at the Federal Secretariat, Abuja, Dr. Salako described biotechnology as “a critical pillar” for achieving better health outcomes and boosting national development.

“Biotechnology opens doors to innovative diagnostics, therapeutics, immunotherapy, regenerative medicine, and the production of vaccines using recombinant DNA technology,” he said. “This is how we can improve maternal and child health, tackle endemic diseases, and enhance the overall quality of life.”

He stressed that Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind in a world rapidly advancing in scientific innovation, especially when it comes to addressing malnutrition, disease burden, and the need for a more robust healthcare system.

Responding to skepticism surrounding GMO safety, the Minister was unequivocal: “More than 2,000 scientific studies conducted over the past 30 years confirm that GMO foods are as safe as conventional ones—and in some cases, even safer.”

Dr. Salako cited strong scientific consensus from global institutions including the US National Academy of Sciences and the Union of German Academies of Sciences and Humanities. He also referenced the 2012 joint statement by 110 Nobel laureates affirming the safety of biotech crops.

“Critics must bring peer-reviewed evidence, not fear. We are committed to policies based on facts, not fiction,” he stated.

Reiterating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Minister highlighted the government’s ambition to transform Nigeria into Africa’s “

WHO Warns: 6.7 Million African Children Missed Vaccines in 2023

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu urges governments to prioritize immunization as African Vaccination Week 2025 begins

As African Vaccination Week 2025 begins across the continent, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a sobering reminder: 6.7 million African children received no vaccines at all in 2023—highlighting a growing gap in immunization coverage that threatens decades of public health progress.

In a statement released to mark the annual observance, which runs from April 24 to 30 and coincides with World Immunization Week, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, warned that one in every five children in Africa remains under-vaccinated, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable diseases.

“Immunization is not just a health tool; it’s a human right and a vital investment in our future,” said Dr. Ihekweazu. “This year’s theme, ‘Immunization for all is humanly possible’, is a call to action—to reach every child, close immunity gaps, and restore services disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Vaccines have saved over 154 million lives globally over the last 50 years, reducing infant mortality by 40% and shielding humanity from more than 30 deadly diseases. But despite such gains, the African Region continues to struggle with vaccine access, affordability, and misinformation.

Dr. Ihekweazu stressed that the battle is not lost. The region has recently made measurable progress in fighting vaccine-preventable diseases—particularly poliovirus. Between 2023 and 2024, cases of circulating variant poliovirus type 1 (cVDPV1) dropped by 93%, while cVDPV2 cases declined by 65%.

“These figures show that eradication is within reach—if we stay the course and target high-risk areas like the Lake Chad Basin and the Horn of Africa,” he added.

The message comes midway into the global Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030), a 10-year strategy aimed at achieving universal vaccine access by the end of the decade. Dr. Ihekweazu urged African governments to ramp up domestic investment in immunization and integrate vaccine delivery into primary healthcare.

A recent high-level side event, co-hosted by WHO, the African Union Commission, the Government of Sierra Leone, Africa CDC, Gavi, and UNICEF, took stock of Africa’s immunization progress since the 2017 Addis Declaration. While acknowledging political will and system improvements, the gathering highlighted persistent challenges—particularly financing gaps, weak data systems, and vaccine hesitancy.

To sustain momentum, Dr. Ihekweazu called on:

Governments to make immunization a national priority and invest sustainably;

Health systems to integrate vaccines into routine care and reach remote areas;

Communities to counter misinformation and promote vaccine confidence;

Development partners to maintain support for equitable vaccine access.

Across the continent, countries are already rising to the challenge. Uganda has launched its largest malaria vaccine rollout to date; Ethiopia has vaccinated nearly one million “zero-dose” children through its Big Catch-Up campaign; Angola has vaccinated over a million people to curb a cholera outbreak; and Sierra Leone has commenced an Ebola vaccination drive for frontline health workers.

“The WHO Regional Office for Africa remains committed to supporting all countries to ensure no one is left behind,” Dr. Ihekweazu said. “Vaccinated communities are healthy communities—and we must make that a reality for every African.”

CAN Mourns Pope Francis, Celebrates His Global Legacy of Compassion and Unity

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***He uplifted the Nigerian Church and stood for the dignity of all,” says Archbishop Okoh

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has joined the global Christian community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a moral compass for the world and a champion of justice, mercy, and unity whose impact extended deeply into Nigeria.

In a statement released on Monday, April 21, 2025, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church and millions of faithful around the world, following the death of the 88-year-old pontiff, who led the Roman Catholic Church from 2013.

“Pope Francis was a towering figure of faith whose papacy radiated mercy, justice, and a profound love for humanity,” Okoh said. “Even without ever visiting Nigeria, his influence was felt here—through his appointments of Nigerian bishops and cardinals and his tireless advocacy for peace and dignity.”

Archbishop Okoh praised Pope Francis’ commitment to interfaith dialogue, which he said brought hope for unity in Nigeria’s religiously diverse landscape. “His leadership inspired peaceful coexistence in our nation and across Africa,” he added.

The CAN President also acknowledged the pope’s strong voice on issues that resonate with Nigeria, including poverty, inequality, corruption, and climate change. He cited the encyclicals Laudato Si’ and Amoris Laetitia as powerful theological contributions that shaped Christian engagement with the environment and family life.

“His words reminded us that justice must include care for the Earth and that the strength of society lies in the sanctity of family and the dignity of the marginalized,” Okoh noted.

CAN urged Nigerian Christians to draw inspiration from the Pope’s life and teachings, emphasizing that his legacy of humility, compassion, and inclusion should guide national efforts toward unity and moral renewal.

“As we bid farewell to this faithful servant of God, we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul and for strength and direction for the Catholic Church during this transition,” Okoh said. “May his legacy continue to inspire us in our pursuit of a more just, united, and compassionate Nigeria.”

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, was the first pope from the Americas and became widely admired for his humility, progressive stance on global issues, and efforts to make the Church more accessible to the poor and marginalized.

Wike’s Aide Fires Back at Falana, Defends Minister’s Legal Contributions

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***Challenges SAN to list legal achievements, questions public remarks on Rivers crisis

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has criticized prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) over recent public comments, challenging him to list his contributions to the legal profession and his major courtroom victories.

In a statement released on Monday, Olayinka questioned Falana’s remarks regarding appointments to the Body of Benchers, accusing the Senior Advocate of trivializing the professional achievements of lawyers who have contributed to legal education and national development.

“It is both funny and unfortunate that in Falana’s view, only those who have tried cases in court qualify as accomplished lawyers or are fit to be appointed as Life Benchers,” Olayinka said. “What has Falana done for the legal profession aside from frequent television appearances?”

He defended Wike’s recent appointment to the Body of Benchers, citing his significant contributions to legal education during his time as Governor of Rivers State. According to him, Wike facilitated the establishment of the Port Harcourt campus of the Nigerian Law School, constructed major facilities at the Yenagoa campus, and continues to support legal institutions as FCT Minister.

“Wike built a 1,500-capacity hall and 200-bed hostels in Yenagoa and is currently constructing a 10-unit housing block for staff at the Nigerian Law School in Bwari, Abuja,” he added. “He has also provided operational vehicles to enhance the school’s functionality.”

In contrast, Olayinka claimed Falana had made no notable infrastructural or philanthropic contributions to the legal community, even in his home state of Ekiti.

“Bar centres in Ado-Ekiti and Ikere-Ekiti were built by Aare Afe Babalola (SAN) and Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), not Falana,” he said.

Olayinka also accused Falana of misrepresenting facts on national television regarding the political and legal crisis in Rivers State, particularly on the Supreme Court’s ruling on the defection of 27 members of the state House of Assembly.

“Falana claimed the Supreme Court didn’t rule on the defection matter, yet that judgment formed the basis for the Federal High Court’s dismissal of a related suit,” Olayinka said.

He further faulted Falana’s interpretation of legislative quorum requirements, noting that the Constitution clearly states that one-third of members constitutes a quorum. “In a House of 32 members, how can three form a quorum?” he asked.

The statement concluded by urging senior lawyers to avoid misleading the public and to focus on upholding the integrity of the legal profession.

Bassa Attack: Badaru Visits Affected Community Reiterates President Tinubu Commitment To End Violence

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Muhammad Badaru Abubakar CON, has visited the community in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State to express condolences tous the families affected by recent attacks and to assure them of the federal government’s commitment to preventing future occurrences.

This was made available in a statement signed by Sani Datti
For: Director of Information and Public Relations

During his visit, the Minister prayed and condoled with the families that lost relatives and sympathized with victims that sustained injury. He stated, “It is imperative that we put an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued this region.”

Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, the Minister was received by Major General Folusho Oyilola, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Safe Haven.

Minister Badaru emphasized the seriousness with which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR views the situation, saying, “Mr. President is deeply concerned about the security challenges in Plateau State and has directed us to ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous acts are apprehended and brought to justice. The GOC and other security agencies have committed to this mission and assured me that no effort will be spared.”

He further noted the importance of collaboration with state authorities to establish effective preventive measures against future violence. “We are working closely with the state government to implement structures that will help mitigate such incidents,” he added.

The Minister called on community leaders to actively participate in intelligence-sharing initiatives, which he believes are crucial for identifying and apprehending those responsible for the violence. He urged the community to remain patient and calm during this challenging time.

“It is essential to recognize the ongoing efforts being made. While the geographical landscape is vast and the communities are dispersed, I am confident that through intelligence sharing, the involvement of community elders, persistent prayers, and the unwavering commitment of Mr. President, we will address the root causes of this crisis,” he concluded.

FCT DRTS Warns Against Fake Number Plate Dealers Amid Scarcity

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***Urges motorists to use only official channels, avoid touts

The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has cautioned residents against dealing with fraudsters illegally selling vehicle number plates, citing an increase in impersonation by touts amid a temporary shortage.

In a statement released on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 the Director in charge of DRTS, Dr. Abdulateef Bello clarified that the current scarcity of number plates is due to irregular and insufficient supply from the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS) Plant. The agency assured that efforts are underway to resolve the situation.

“The DRTS firmly disassociates itself from these illegal activities and strongly cautions members of the public against dealing with any individual—staff or agent—who claims to sell number plates outside of the official system,” the statement read.

The agency advised residents to complete all transactions only through the designated self-service portal: https://selfservice.fctevreg.com, where official prices for number plates and related services are publicly listed.

To curb the fraudulent activities, DRTS said it is working closely with security agencies to identify, arrest, and prosecute those posing as officials or engaging in illegal sales.

Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious individuals or unauthorized dealers directly to the DRTS management.

Reaffirming its commitment to service integrity, the DRTS emphasized that it will continue to uphold transparency, efficiency, and accountability in delivering services to the motoring public in the FCT.

Nigeria, South Africa Strengthen Mining Ties to Drive Industrial Growth

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***“Together, we can unlock Africa’s mineral wealth,” says Alake

Nigeria and South Africa have taken a bold step toward deepening their collaboration in the mining sector, as both nations seek to harness their vast mineral resources to fuel industrialization and economic growth across the continent.

Speaking at the Nigeria-South Africa Technical Working Visit on Mining Sector Cooperation in Abuja on April 16, 2025, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, emphasized the importance of the partnership in advancing Africa’s development agenda.

“Our partnership can unlock Africa’s mineral wealth, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth,” Alake said. “With South Africa’s world-class mining expertise and Nigeria’s rich mineral deposits, we are laying the foundation for a strategic collaboration that will benefit both nations and the continent at large.”

The visit brought together senior government officials and technical teams from both countries, led by South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Hon. Gwede Mantashe, and Nigeria’s Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu Abubakar.

At the heart of the engagement is a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in geology, mining, and mineral processing. The agreement aims to:

Facilitate technology and knowledge transfer;

Promote cross-border investments in mining;

Support capacity building and joint research;

Align strategies with the African Mining Vision;

Enhance value addition in the mineral sector.

Dr. Alake noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes diversification through solid minerals. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a transparent, investment-friendly mining environment.

“As we pursue reforms, we are equally committed to environmental sustainability and community development,” Alake added.

In his closing remarks, Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, hailed the meeting as a milestone in Nigeria-South Africa relations.

“This session has laid the groundwork for technical and strategic alignment. We are ready to implement the key resolutions reached and move toward tangible outcomes,” Audu said.

He commended the South African delegation for their insights and reiterated Nigeria’s interest in deepening cooperation in mineral processing, metallurgy, and mining governance.

Both ministers expressed optimism that the partnership would position Nigeria and South Africa as continental leaders in responsible and inclusive mineral development, while contributing to the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The two countries are expected to finalize and sign the MoU in the coming months, paving the way for new investments, job creation, and sustainable exploitation of Africa’s mineral wealth.

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