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Delay in Airlift of FCT’s Third Batch of 2025 Hajj Pilgrims: Board Urges Patience Amid Logistical Setback

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has appealed for calm among intending pilgrims scheduled for the third flight to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, following a temporary delay in their airlift.

The Board’s Public Relations Officer, Muhammad Lawal Aliyu, made the appeal while addressing the stranded pilgrims at the Hajj Camp in Bassan Jiwa, Abuja, on Monday.

Aliyu attributed the delay to a logistical bottleneck in Madina, where accommodation constraints have stalled the arrival of new pilgrims.

“There’s simply no available space in Madina at the moment. Until the current batch of pilgrims is relocated to Makkah, fresh arrivals cannot be accommodated. This is why outbound flights from Nigeria, including from the FCT, are temporarily suspended,” he explained.

He stressed that the issue is not isolated to the FCT but affects all Nigerian contingents participating in this year’s pilgrimage.

“We are fully prepared at our end—the aircraft is ready and on standby. Once clearance is given, the third batch will depart without delay,” Aliyu assured.

Tension mounted at the Hajj Camp as many pilgrims, some of whom had arrived as early as Sunday, expressed frustration over the delay and the lack of timely communication.

“We’ve been waiting since yesterday with no clear update. It’s frustrating and mentally draining,” one of the pilgrims told Aso Radio.

In response, Aliyu and other senior officials of the board moved through the camp to reassure the pilgrims, provide updates, and encourage patience.

The FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board reaffirmed its commitment to the wellbeing of all pilgrims under its care, adding that it remains in constant liaison with Saudi authorities to resolve the accommodation issue as quickly as possible.

“As soon as we get the go-ahead, the flight will take off. We sincerely ask for your continued understanding and cooperation,” the PRO reiterated.

Meanwhile, families and loved ones of the affected pilgrims remain hopeful that the delay will be short-lived, allowing them to continue their sacred journey without further complications.

Don’t Honour Governor Otti’s Invitation To Commission A Project, Orji Cautions Tinubu

By
Shehu Danladi
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been cautioned not to honour an invitation by the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to commission just one project.

A former political ally of Governor Otti, Prof. Moses A. Orji, who stated this on Tuesday, asked in which state has the President even come to commission a single project, adding Governor Otti needs time to put his house in order.

The President is reportedly scheduled to visit Abia State on May 23, to among other things, commission the 6.5 kilometre Port Harcourt Road in Aba, which was rebuilt by the administration of Governor Alex Otti administration.

In an open letter to the President, Prof. Orji said, “it could even be in the personal interest of Governor Otti that the President doesn’t come now. Perhaps Otti needs time to put his house in order.”

Orji cautioned that it is not enough to drag the President of the Federal Republic about just because the governor’s cousin is a Federal Minister, and ‘one of those who has the ear of Mr. President.

He said: “In which state in the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the president gone to commission just a single completed project, and nothing more?

“Why would Mr. President go to Enugu state to inaugurate seven (7) different key projects completed (by a fellow first termer with Otti), and then feel the same sense of duty to be called upon to inaugurate just one in Abia?

” Why would the President go to commission the dazzling wonderland called Funcity built by Governor Soludo of Anambra state, and not ask us questions about the whereabouts of Abia’s ‘Recreational Facilities,’ which was completed last year at the cost of over N7 billions but is nowhere to be found? Or do we think the presidency is not aware?

“Why would we want to drag the President into our numerous cases of ‘flag-offs’ when work has not commenced on any of the previous flag-offs?

“What about our flagged-off Seaport, Fertilizer Plants, Refineries etc at the proposed Owazza Integrated Industrial Park? Has anybody seen the feasibility study report, or the Environmental Impact Assessment Report of any of them? But they have been flagged-off.

“What about the Pensioners who are proposing to come out in their numbers to make their case before the President? What are we going to tell Mr President? That we are the only state in the South East still owing Pensioners their arrears. What would be our governor’s excuse for wanting Abia pensioners to forfeit their earned pensions when our monthly inflows has quadrupled?.”

Prof. Orji, who recalled that Governor Otti, about a year ago, nearly pulled off a similar stunt when he tried to drag Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state to Abia state, accused his administration of employing propaganda and brinkmanship.

Orji said: “Our Governor wanted his colleague from Lagos state to come and commission a 200 metre track road (Yellow Avenue) on the outskirts of Aba, a street leading to the private residence of one of his business friends. Of course his intended guest caught wind of it, and refused to show up.

“I am therefore of the opinion that this make-believe approach to scoring dubious political points by an administration that is grossly underperforming should be exposed and discouraged.

“For example, what if the President decides to have a breather at the Government House, Umuahia which has a Presidential Lounge? Would Mr Otti tell the President to follow him to his private residence at Isiala Ngwa? Remember the President is not coming on a social visit? Or would our Governor tell his august guest that tortoise, vulture and other animals were used to lay the foundation of our Government House?

“Again the Abia ‘Medical City’ at Owerrinta is within the precincts of our Owerrinta Rice Complex. What if the President decides to have a glimpse of the ‘Owerrinta Rice Mill. The proximity of the ‘two projects’ could tempt the President to kill two birds with one stone.”

Orji submitted that Abia state have been wallowing in the morass of propaganda and brinkmanship while states like Enugu and Anambra have taken a quantum leap forward, adding, “yet we may not have learnt our lessons as our governor continues to fire broadsides at his predecessors, and as he continues to blame the rate of the Dollar to the Naira for the inflated value of his contracts.

Reps Committee Apologizes Over UTME Error, Assures Nigerians of Full Probe

By
Roland Edet
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The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies has formally apologized to Nigerians over the recent error that disrupted the conduct of the April/May 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) administered by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

Speaking during a world press conference on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Abuja, the Committee’s Deputy Chairman, Hon. Aboku Abonsizibe Oforji, who represents Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, described the incident as “an avoidable human error” and extended heartfelt sympathy to the affected candidates and their families.

“This is an unprecedented situation in the history of JAMB. We express our deepest sympathy to the students impacted and sincerely apologize to all Nigerians on behalf of JAMB,” Hon. Oforji stated.

He commended JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for swiftly owning up to the error and apologizing publicly, but stressed that the Committee would pursue accountability and reform.

“We must now demand accountability—not tomorrow, but today. Education is the backbone of our national progress, and we cannot afford another breakdown of this nature,” he said.

Responding to questions from journalists, Hon. Oforji acknowledged that lapses in oversight may have contributed to the error. He confirmed that the Committee has begun preliminary investigations and will intensify oversight across all six geopolitical zones to improve examination monitoring.

“Our findings so far indicate it was a human error—not a system failure or technical malfunction. However, we are committed to ensuring that those responsible are identified and held accountable,” he added.

On suggestions by some lawmakers that the entire UTME should be cancelled, Hon. Oforji said such a decision would depend on the outcome of the investigation. He noted that JAMB had already acted to mitigate the damage by organizing a retake for affected candidates.

“JAMB quickly directed a retake of the compromised exam. That alone indicates there was no malicious intent. We’re investigating the matter thoroughly, and Nigerians can be assured we will do what is right,” he said.

When asked if Nigerians should simply “forgive and forget,” given the emotional and academic impact of the error, Hon. Oforji replied: “We are not asking anyone to forget. What we are doing is apologizing and assuring Nigerians that serious corrective actions are underway.”

He reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to full transparency and promised to provide public updates once investigations are concluded.

“This is a painful episode—one we would never wish on even our fiercest critics. Our thoughts are with the candidates and families affected. We also appreciate Nigerians for their patience and understanding as we work to fix the system,” he concluded.

Reps Pass Bill to Establish National Ear Centre in Bende Amid Surge in Hearing Loss Cases

By
Udehi Alambo
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0

The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed for second reading a bill proposing the establishment of a National Ear Centre in Bende, Abia State, as part of efforts to tackle the growing public health crisis of hearing loss in Nigeria.

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Ear Centre, Bende for the Prevention, Management and Cure of Ear Defects and Diseases; and for Related Matters,” was jointly sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, alongside six other lawmakers.

In his presentation, co-sponsor Hon. Kama Nkemkanma described hearing loss as a national development issue, not just a medical concern, calling for urgent federal intervention to assist the millions of Nigerians affected by auditory health conditions.

He pointed out that ear-related diseases and impairments affect all demographics—ranging from children hindered in learning to speak, to the elderly grappling with age-related hearing decline—yet access to specialized care remains limited.

“The proposed centre will significantly improve access to expert diagnosis and treatment, enhance training for ENT specialists, and serve as a centre of excellence in auditory healthcare,” Nkemkanma stated.

Citing statistics from the World Health Organization, he noted that over 1.5 billion people globally suffer some form of hearing loss, with Nigeria bearing a considerable portion of that burden. He lamented that the country currently relies on just one National Ear Care Centre in Kaduna, which is overwhelmed and under-resourced.

“This bill does not seek to duplicate but to complement existing services. The new centre in Bende will serve as both a referral hospital and a training institution, boosting capacity to meet rising national demands,” he said.

He stressed that hearing loss cuts across ethnic, religious, and regional lines, and called on lawmakers to support the bill as a statement that access to ear care is a fundamental right.

“No child should be left behind in school due to an untreated ear infection. No adult should lose livelihood because of a preventable or manageable hearing condition,” he added.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, who presided over the session, put the bill to a voice vote. It passed without opposition and has now advanced to the committee stage for further legislative action.

FCT EXCO Approves N2.6bn for Waste Management, Infrastructure, Streetlight Upgrades

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

— 19 New Projects Cleared to Accelerate Abuja’s Urban Development

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Executive Committee (EXCO) has approved a total of 19 new projects aimed at upgrading waste management, urban infrastructure, and street lighting systems across Abuja, with contracts valued at approximately N2.6 billion.

The approvals were granted during the 14th EXCO meeting chaired by the FCT Minister and held in Abuja on Tuesday.

Speaking to journalists after the session, Mr. Chidi Amadi, Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to fast-tracking infrastructural development across the territory.

“By the special grace of God, this is the 14th EXCO chaired by the Honourable Minister himself. A total of 13 memos were presented, three were stepped down for technical reasons, and 19 were critically reviewed and approved,” Amadi said.

He noted that while detailed reforms in land administration were presented by the Director of Lands, further announcements will be made separately to allow for proper clarity and communication. “It’s too crucial to rush,” he said.

On the environmental front, Chief Felix Amechi Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), disclosed that three major environmental and sanitation service contracts received EXCO approval.

These include:

Operation and maintenance of the Apo Erector sewage facility,

Extension of services at Wupa Basic Sewage Treatment Plant,

Solid waste collection and management across 40 locations in the FCT for an additional two months.

Obuah said the approvals underscore the administration’s drive to enhance environmental sanitation, sewage processing, and waste management in the capital city.

Also speaking, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), said seven FCDA memos were approved, covering critical infrastructure and public safety projects.

Key among them is the upgrade of outdated streetlights along the 14-kilometer, 10-lane Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (Ring Road 1) from Maitama through Gudu-Garki. “These lights were installed nearly two decades ago. We are replacing them with a hybrid lighting system to boost visibility and road safety,” Dauda explained.

Other approved projects include:

Construction of a new magistrate court in Jabi, replacing a previously proposed Maitama site,

Fencing and access control at 12 road interchanges to curb criminal activity and open defecation,

1.7-kilometre road and drainage works in Durumi District near the Apostolic Church,

Comprehensive infrastructure in Mabushi District, including roads, drainage, streetlights, and water supply,

Complete renovation and technical upgrades at the DSS headquarters,

Erosion control measures to protect a major pipeline from the Lower Usman Dam through Gwagwalada—already completed by CGC Construction Company.

“These projects are designed to strengthen the city’s resilience, enhance security, and improve residents’ quality of life,” Dauda said.

The FCT EXCO’s latest decisions reflect the Minister’s renewed push to transform Abuja into a modern, efficient, and sustainable city through strategic investments in public infrastructure and service delivery.

Gumel Emirate Turbans Galadima as Madaki Gini of Gumel

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Director of Development Control at the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Tpl. Mukhtar Galadima, has been formally turbaned as the Madaki Gini of Gumel by the Gumel Emirate Council in recognition of his distinguished service and contributions to urban planning and public administration.

The colourful turbaning ceremony was held in Abuja on Monday, within the AMMC Conference Room, Wuse Zone 6, with the AMMC Coordinator, Hon. Felix Amechi Obuah, presiding over the symbolic presentation on behalf of the traditional institution.

Describing the conferment as a well-deserved honour, Obuah lauded Galadima’s leadership, professionalism, and humility. “This is a welcome development. It will inspire him to continue his impactful and exemplary service not just within the FCTA, but to the nation at large,” he said.

Obuah praised Galadima’s unwavering commitment to discipline, fairness, and urban development, qualities he described as consistent with the expectations of a traditional titleholder.

The title of Madaki Gini, conferred by the Gumel Emirate Council under the leadership of His Royal Highness, Ahmad Muhammad Sani II, holds a significant position within the emirate’s traditional hierarchy. The emirate, located in Jigawa State, was founded around 1750 by Dan Juma and remains one of the few Hausa kingdoms that withstood incorporation into the Sokoto Caliphate after the 19th-century Fulani jihad.

Galadima hails from Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State, and is an accomplished urban planner. He attended Government College, Katsina-Ala, and later earned a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Benue State University.

A seasoned professional with over 23 years of experience within the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), he has served in various capacities at both the Department of Development Control and the Satellite Towns Development Agency.

He was appointed Acting Director of Development Control by the then FCT Minister, Muhammad Musa Bello, on August 10, 2016, and has since led several high-level committees, including the Abuja Master Plan Restoration Task Team, the Review of Revoked Titles, and the Change of Land Use Committees.

Galadima is also internationally certified and a member of various professional bodies in the field of urban development and physical planning.

With this latest traditional recognition, the new Madaki Gini of Gumel now bears both administrative and cultural responsibilities, bridging modern governance and traditional heritage.

Northern SDP Chairmen Disown Anti-NWC Statements, Warn Against Tribal Divides

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

…We didn’t authorize any statement

Northern Chairmen of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have disowned statements allegedly issued on their behalf concerning the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), describing them as false, unauthorized, and aimed at creating division.

In a press release dated May 20, 2025, and signed under the banner of the Northern SDP Chairmen Forum (NSCF), the leaders categorically stated that they were not present at the said NWC meeting and had no involvement in any comments issued from it.

“We have no authority to interfere in the affairs of the National Working Committee,” they stated. “Anyone who made such a statement on our behalf is acting maliciously and unethically.”

The signatories Hon. Nuradeen Bisalla (FCT Chairman, representing North Central), Hon. Ali Shattima (Kano State Chairman, representing North West), Hon. Adamu Modibbo (Gombe State Chairman, representing North East), and Barr. B. Y. Yarima (Chairman, Northern Chairmen Forum) reaffirmed their loyalty to the national chairman and warned against exploiting regional sentiments to stir conflict within the party.

“It is inappropriate for us to issue statements urging the NWC to take action against any national leader, such as the Public Relations Officer,” they noted.

The forum emphasized its commitment to party unity, cautioning against any perception of tribalism. “We believe in the cohesion of the party across the country and do not want to be perceived as tribalistic,” the statement read.

They called on the national chairman to personally intervene and guide the party toward reconciliation.

“Our hope is that they will unite the party and resolve any misunderstandings by adhering to the rules and regulations of the party. North and South are one entity under our national chairman,” the chairmen declared.

The intervention comes amid internal tensions in the SDP, with the Northern chairmen’s position aimed at calming the situation and reinforcing national unity within the party’s ranks.

APC National Summit a Chance to Unify Leaders, Assess Progress — Progressive Voters’ Forum

By
Saladin Babagana
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The Progressive Voters’ Forum (PVF), a pro-All Progressives Congress (APC) support group, has described the upcoming APC National Summit as a timely opportunity for party leaders to unite, evaluate the party’s performance, and strategize for the future.

The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for initiating the summit, which is scheduled to hold on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The theme of the summit is “Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far.”

In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Coordinator, Dr. Olusegun Kenneth, the PVF urged delegates to attend with open minds and engage in meaningful dialogue that would further strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

“This summit offers a unique platform for APC leaders to review our progress as the ruling party, forge a united front, and deliberate on practical solutions to national challenges,” the statement read.

Dr. Kenneth called on party members to use the summit as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration, adding that many of the government’s achievements remain underreported or ignored by opposition parties.

Expected attendees at the summit include President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, APC governors and their deputies, National Assembly members under the party’s banner, and former presidents affiliated with the APC.

“With May 29 marking two years since President Tinubu assumed office, the summit comes at a perfect time to highlight the administration’s milestones in infrastructure, economic recovery, and national development,” Dr. Kenneth said.

He emphasized the need for inclusivity, calling on the summit to accommodate diverse voices and new entrants into the party.

PVF also urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that foundational reforms over the past two years are beginning to yield results, including a decline in inflation and commodity prices.

“The summit is not just for the APC, but for all Nigerians,” the statement added. “We believe it will help dispel misinformation, showcase progress, and rally support around the president’s vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.”

FG Commences Construction of Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy Permanent Site

By
Shehu Danladi
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0

The Federal Government has officially commenced construction of the permanent site for the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy, Alkaleri (BOGAA), marking a significant step toward enhancing human capital development in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), performed the groundbreaking ceremony over the weekend, commending the Bauchi State Government for initiating the academy in alignment with national objectives.

According to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, the Minister reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to maximize all available oil production platforms and fast-track key projects, including the Kolmani Integrated Development Projects.

“Our goal is to ensure that every productive oil platform contributes meaningfully to national development,” Lokpobiri said, emphasizing the Tinubu administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape into a catalyst for industrialization, employment, and economic growth.

He lauded the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy as a visionary investment that will train the skilled workforce needed to sustain and expand the oil and gas industry. The Minister also acknowledged the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) for its ongoing contributions to technological and human capacity building, expressing optimism for a strong collaboration between PTDF and BOGAA to drive sustainable development.

In his remarks, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, thanked the Federal Government for its support, especially the release of N17 billion to boost oil exploration activities and fund the academy’s construction. Of this amount, N6 billion has been allocated specifically for the academy project.

Describing the institution as a “hub for skills development and innovation,” Governor Mohammed stressed that the academy will not only serve Bauchi but will have far-reaching benefits for the entire country by equipping youths with vocational and technical expertise.

He called on host communities to cooperate with contractors and stakeholders to ensure smooth and timely execution of the project.

The Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy was conceptualized in 2021 following the discovery of commercial quantities of oil and gas in the Kolmani River region. The academy is expected to provide critical training to support ongoing exploration and future operations, while also empowering young Nigerians to actively participate in the energy sector and contribute to national prosperity.

Wike to Establish Bus Terminals in Gwagwalada, Bwari to Curb Insecurity, Ease Transport in FCT

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to construct new bus terminals in Gwagwalada and Bwari as part of efforts to improve security and streamline public transportation within the Territory.

The new terminals will complement ongoing developments in Mabushi, Kugbo, and the Central Business District, providing residents of satellite towns with safe and organized access to the city center.

Wike disclosed this during an inspection of a 12-kilometre road project connecting the Ushafa community in Bwari Area Council.

“We’ve agreed to establish bus terminals in Gwagwalada and Bwari, allowing people to board buses or taxis directly to Mabushi, Kugbo, or the central area,” the Minister stated. “This will help reduce ‘one chance’ incidents and restore confidence in the public transport system.”

He noted that once the terminals are operational, residents will no longer have to rely on unsafe roadside pickups. “If anyone still chooses to stand by the roadside after these are provided, it’s no longer the government’s fault,” he added.

Wike also revealed that several key projects across the FCT are nearing completion and will be commissioned in June, in line with the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“By the first week of June, commissioning will begin, God willing. Some projects will be inaugurated by Mr. President himself, especially in the city and satellite towns,” he said.

He expressed hope that the activities will commence after the Eid-el-Kabir festivities, and disclosed that he has invited President Tinubu to personally commission some roads in the satellite areas.

“This way, residents can see and appreciate the development being brought to them under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Wike said.

Emphasizing balanced development, the Minister said the Tinubu-led administration is focused on bridging the urban-rural divide.

“We are not concentrating only on the city. Satellite towns are a priority too. In Ushafa alone, we’ve completed 12 kilometres of road. Yesterday, we were in Gwagwalada and Kwali, and similar progress is evident there,” he noted.

He likened the successful execution of these projects to excelling in a major exam: “We made promises, and to the glory of God, we are delivering.”

Wike also highlighted the recent upgrade of the International Conference Centre (ICC) as a demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to world-class infrastructure.

According to him, improved facilities, roads, and lighting in satellite communities will ease pressure on the city as more people opt to stay closer to home.

“From here to the city is just 35 minutes. Once streetlights are in place, this area will be transformed. People won’t feel the need to relocate to the city when all they need is available where they live,” he concluded.

The FCT Administration, he affirmed, remains committed to inclusive development across all districts of the capital territory.

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