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Reps Panel Threatens Sanctions as Oil Firms Owe FG $456m, Recovers ₦86.5bn in Unremitted Revenues

By
Shehu Danladi
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0

Reps Panel Threatens Sanctions as Oil Firms Owe FG $456m, Recovers ₦86.5bn in Unremitted Revenues

…Neconde, Heirs Holdings, Aiteo, and others face July summons over unpaid obligations

The House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has issued a final warning to thirteen oil companies over their failure to honour multiple official summons in an ongoing probe into unremitted revenues owed to the Federal Government, amounting to a staggering $456.95 million (₦731.12 billion).

This development comes as the Committee, in a statement by its spokesperson, Hon. Akin Rotimi, expressed deep concern over the continued refusal of these firms to appear before lawmakers despite repeated invitations and public notices in national dailies.

The PAC, chaired by Hon. Bamidele Salam, has now mandated the companies to appear without fail on Wednesday, July 2, and Thursday, July 3, 2025, or face constitutional sanctions for contempt of the National Assembly.

> “Recalcitrant companies will face the constitutional consequences of their refusal to cooperate. We are resolute in our commitment to uphold accountability and recover every kobo owed to the Nigerian people,” Hon. Salam declared.

Defaulting Companies and Debt Profiles

According to documents released by the PAC, the following companies are under investigation for failing to remit various statutory revenues:

Neconde Energy Ltd – $326 million

Heirs Holdings – $137.7 million

Continental Oil & Gas Ltd – $57 million

Aiteo Ltd – $34.8 million

Eroton – $34.5 million

General Hydrocarbon Ltd – $22.5 million

Energia Ltd – $19.5 million

Waltersmith OML 16 – $8.7 million

Millennium Oil & Gas Ltd – $2.07 million

Pillar Oil Ltd – $4.6 million

Frontier OML 13 – $952,216.51

Bilton – $5 million

Conoil Producing Ltd – $5 million

In addition to these, the PAC has summoned six other oil firms for further clarification on liabilities totaling $125.5 million, including:

Shoreline Natural Resources – $70 million

Newcross Exploration – $25 million

Aradel Holdings – $8.2 million

OML 18 Resources – $15.2 million

Ocean Energy – $4.5 million

Network Exploration – $2.6 million

Committee Recovers ₦86.5 Billion So Far

Despite the ongoing defiance by several companies, the Committee recorded major breakthroughs in its recovery drive, confirming that it has so far recovered ₦86.5 billion, including a recent ₦25 billion ($15.7 million) from various operators.

These recoveries stem from the Committee’s scrutiny of the Auditor-General’s Annual Report on Nigeria’s Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ending December 31, 2021, which had flagged a jaw-dropping ₦9.4 trillion in liabilities owed to the Federation Account as of Q4 2024.

Breakdown of Latest Recoveries

Among the latest companies to remit outstanding debts are:

TotalEnergies – $2 million

Shoreline Natural Resources – $10 million

OML 18 Resources – $3,474,123

Enageed Resource Ltd – $280,000

These debts are linked to unpaid royalties, concession rentals, gas flare penalties, and other statutory obligations arising from Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs), Repayment Agreements, and Modified Carry Arrangements.

Strengthening Transparency in Oil and Gas

The Committee described the ongoing recoveries as a major milestone in its drive to instill fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry—a sector long plagued by opacity and revenue leakages.

Hon. Salam reaffirmed the resolve of the 10th Assembly to act decisively. “We will not tolerate impunity. This is not just about figures—it is about restoring public confidence in the institutions that manage our commonwealth,” he said.

As the July deadline approaches, all eyes are now on the summoned companies to either comply or face the full weight of legislative sanctions as Nigeria intensifies efforts to plug revenue gaps and rebuild fiscal credibility.

Yelewata Massacre: Tinubu Blasts Security Chiefs Over Lack of Arrests, Orders Manhunt for Killers

By
Roland Edet
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0

…“No excuses — Get those criminals now,” President warns military, intelligence agencies

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday issued a stern rebuke to Nigeria’s security chiefs for their failure to apprehend those behind the deadly attack in Yelewata, Benue State, demanding immediate action and results.

The President, visibly displeased by the lack of arrests following the massacre that left scores dead, injured, and displaced, questioned the response of the security agencies.

> “How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be arrests of those criminals,” Tinubu asked pointedly during a high-level security meeting at the Presidential Villa.

The meeting, convened in the wake of the brutal killings in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area, brought together the nation’s top security and intelligence leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs, and the heads of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Department of State Services (DSS).

“Let’s Get Those Criminals Out”

Addressing the service chiefs directly, Tinubu called on General Christopher Musa (CDS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede (COAS), and Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar (CAS) to intensify both ground and aerial surveillance in the affected areas and hunt down the perpetrators.

> “Christopher, I know you cannot be tired of staying in the bush—you and Oloyede and the Air Marshal—we need to keep our ears to the ground,” he said. “Let’s get those criminals. Let’s get them out!”

The President assured the armed forces of his full support and backing, but made it clear that excuses would no longer be tolerated. “This must not happen again,” he warned.

Intelligence Agencies Told to Step Up

In addition to military action, President Tinubu directed the Director-General of the NIA and the DSS to retool their intelligence-gathering operations and supply actionable intelligence that can prevent further attacks and lead to the arrest of suspects already linked to the killings.

“This is not the time for passive intelligence. I want results and I want them now,” Tinubu said, as he emphasized the urgency of stopping the recurring violence in Benue and surrounding areas.

President Visits Epicenter of Carnage

President Tinubu’s tough stance followed his visit to Yelewata, where he met with families of victims, displaced persons, and community leaders still reeling from the aftermath of the attack allegedly carried out by armed herders.

The President’s visit to the flashpoint community underscored his personal commitment to restoring peace, justice, and order to the region.

The Yelewata attack, one of the deadliest in recent memory, has reignited national outrage over insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and renewed calls for a comprehensive strategy to curb violent clashes, often rooted in land disputes and communal tensions.

“No One Is Above the Law”

By demanding swift arrests and operational results, President Tinubu has sent a clear message: those responsible for the Yelewata killings must be held accountable, and no one, regardless of affiliation or backing, is above the law.

The military and intelligence agencies are now under intense pressure to deliver, as the nation watches closely for justice in the wake of yet another tragedy that has once again shaken the conscience of the country.

Tinubu Orders Inclusion of All Former Benue Governors, Nasarawa Governor Sule in New Elders’ Committee

By
Roland Edet
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0

…Tasks Gov. Alia to act as father to all, secure land for ranching, and engage traditional rulers for peace

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate inclusion of all former governors of Benue State, as well as the current Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, in the newly constituted Benue Committee of Elders, aimed at restoring peace and unity in the crisis-hit state.

The directive was disclosed on Wednesday by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, via a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account. Dare was part of the recent Presidential delegation that visited communities affected by the latest wave of violence in Benue.

According to Dare, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the peace-building process and tasked Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State to work closely with all political and traditional stakeholders, regardless of party affiliation or ethnic background.

“The President urged Governor Alia to act as a father to all in Benue, ensuring that unity, not division, defines the way forward,” Dare stated.

Over 200 Killed in Yelewata Attack

The directive follows the recent tragic massacre in Yelewata village, which claimed over 200 lives, left dozens wounded, and displaced hundreds of residents, further worsening the humanitarian situation in parts of Benue.

President Tinubu, who has condemned the killings in strong terms, stressed the urgent need for a multi-stakeholder approach to finding lasting peace in the state.

Traditional Rulers and Ranching to Be Key to Stability

Beyond the Committee of Elders, Tinubu also called on traditional rulers to collaborate more closely with the government to ensure peace and stability in their communities.

He further instructed Governor Alia to allocate land for ranching, describing it as a strategic solution to the persistent farmer-herder clashes believed to be one of the root causes of the recurring violence in Benue and its environs.

Expanded Committee to Serve as Peace Engine Room

With the inclusion of all former Benue governors and Governor Sule of Nasarawa State, the expanded Elders’ Committee is expected to serve as an advisory and mediatory body, helping to drive reconciliation efforts and rebuild trust among aggrieved communities.

Presidency sources say the initiative is part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to tackle insecurity at the grassroots by empowering local leadership, strengthening inter-state collaboration, and fostering inclusive dialogue.

The Committee is expected to begin work immediately, interfacing with both the state and federal governments to chart a new path toward peace and lasting development in Benue.

FG, States, LGs Share N1.659 Trillion May Revenue as FAAC Reports Surge in VAT, CIT Collections

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

The Federal Government, states, and local government councils have shared a total of N1.659 trillion as revenue generated in May 2025, according to figures released after the June 2025 Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting held in Abuja.

The figure, confirmed by Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), represents a significant disbursement buoyed by a strong performance in Company Income Tax (CIT), Value Added Tax (VAT), and Import Duties.

The breakdown shows the revenue pool consisted of:

Statutory revenue: N863.895 billion

VAT: N691.714 billion

Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL): N27.667 billion

Exchange Difference revenue: N76.614 billion

Gross Revenue Tops N2.94 Trillion for May

According to the FAAC communiqué, the total gross revenue available in May 2025 stood at N2.942 trillion, marking a notable increase from previous months. However, deductions for cost of collection amounted to N111.908 billion, while transfers, refunds, and interventions gulped N1.171 trillion, bringing the distributable amount to N1.659 trillion.

Federal, State, and LG Allocations

From the N1.659 trillion distributable revenue:

Federal Government received N538.004 billion

State Governments received N577.841 billion

Local Government Councils received N419.968 billion

An additional N124.076 billion was shared as 13% derivation revenue to oil-producing states.

Statutory Revenue Breakdown (N863.895 Billion)

FG: N393.518 billion

States: N199.598 billion

LGs: N153.881 billion

Derivation (13%): N116.898 billion

VAT Revenue Sees Major Boost (N691.714 Billion)

With VAT collections showing a N100.555 billion increase from April, the breakdown is as follows:

FG: N103.757 billion

States: N345.857 billion

LGs: N242.100 billion

EMTL and Exchange Difference

From the N27.667 billion EMTL:

FG: N4.150 billion

States: N13.833 billion

LGs: N9.683 billion

From the N76.614 billion Exchange Difference:

FG: N36.579 billion

States: N18.553 billion

LGs: N14.304 billion

Derivation (13%): N7.178 billion

Revenue Performance Summary

The communiqué noted that in May 2025, Company Income Tax (CIT), VAT, and Import Duties recorded significant increases, while CET Levies, Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Oil and Gas Royalties, and EMTL experienced declines. Excise Duty, meanwhile, saw only a marginal uptick.

The FAAC statement underlined the importance of enhancing non-oil revenue sources and ensuring fiscal discipline at all levels of government to support economic stability and development.

INEC Headquarters Annex, Hails Symbol of Democratic Renewal

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Tinubu Flags Off Construction of New
…Commends Wike’s Leadership, Reaffirms Commitment to Electoral Credibility

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, laid the foundation for the construction of a new national headquarters annex for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as a powerful testament to Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to democracy, institutional strength, and credible elections.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Abuja, President Tinubu said the project was more than just a physical development—it represents a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

“This ceremony is not merely about bricks and mortar,” he declared. “It is about the strength of our democracy, the independence of our institutions, and the future of our electoral integrity.”

He stressed that INEC remains a central pillar of Nigeria’s democratic journey, and pledged that his administration would continue to empower the Commission not only with improved infrastructure but also through supportive legislation, policy reforms, and adequate resources.

“We are committed to ensuring that INEC is fully equipped—in infrastructure, in law, in policy, and in resources—to carry out its constitutional mandate with courage, fairness, and excellence,” he said.

President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, for playing a key role in initiating and advancing the project. “The FCT Minister has taken another bold step in ensuring the protection of our democracy by initiating this laudable project. I salute his courage, and I am indeed proud of him,” the President said.

He also applauded the past and present leadership of INEC for their resilience and commitment despite operational challenges. Urging all contractors and stakeholders to adhere to the highest standards, Tinubu said: “Let quality, speed, and integrity guide your work. You are not just building a headquarters—you are building trust in our nation.”

Wike Sets the Record Straight

In his remarks, FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike clarified that the project was awarded by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in March 2025, not by the FCT Administration. “Mr. President, let me correct an impression: this project was awarded by the Federal Executive Council, not the FCT. We, through the FCDA, are only supervising the execution,” Wike explained.

The minister noted that the INEC Annex is part of a wider effort to address critical infrastructure needs in the capital, following President Tinubu’s directive to revamp public institutions. He listed other ongoing projects, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, the renovation of National Assembly chambers, and housing initiatives for the judiciary.

Promising to ensure timely delivery, Wike said: “Mr. President, I assure you this structure will receive all the attention it needs. With the support you’ve given us, we will make sure the contractor delivers.”

In a fiery aside, Wike warned the project contractor to take the job seriously. “I don’t know where he comes from, but by the time he finishes, he’ll know that we don’t joke with work. He will stay under the sun and rain to justify the money we are paying,” he said.

INEC Chairman: “A Decade-Long Dream Comes True”

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for not only approving the project but personally attending the groundbreaking event.

“For a long time, the Commission has been grappling with the problem of inadequate office accommodation,” Yakubu revealed, explaining that the current headquarters, commissioned in 1997, was originally designed for 500 staff. Today, the Commission has over 1,048 employees, 13 full-time commissioners, and 22 departments, leading to severe congestion.

“We have even had to rent two buildings in Wuse just to cope with the growing number of staff and functions,” he said.

The INEC chairman recalled years of failed attempts to resolve the issue until the FCT Minister intervened. “Sometime last year, the Minister of the FCT came to the rescue. Over the last 10 years, we made every effort to alleviate the situation, but this is the first real breakthrough,” he noted.

Yakubu also acknowledged the historical support of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), stating that this was the third time in 34 years that FCDA would be intervening to provide or enhance INEC’s office accommodation.

State-of-the-Art Electoral Facility

The new annex, according to the INEC Chairman, will include a 1,000-seat auditorium, cutting-edge IT facilities like the Election Monitoring and Support Center, dedicated office spaces, stakeholder meeting rooms, and a museum of Nigeria’s electoral history.

“This annex will be more than just office space—it will be a learning and innovation hub. It will serve as a resource centre for students, scholars, and citizens to better understand the evolution of our electoral system,” Yakubu said. “For me, this is a very, very special occasion. After almost 10 years of persistent effort, the construction of the INEC Annex building is finally a reality.”

Symbol of Democratic Maturity

The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by top government officials, INEC commissioners, and diplomatic observers, underscores the Tinubu administration’s drive to strengthen democratic institutions through strategic investment and leadership collaboration.

With its planned modern facilities and expanded capacity, the new INEC headquarters annex is poised to become a landmark of electoral credibility and transparency—reflecting the administration’s vision of a more secure, efficient, and independent electoral body ahead of future national elections.

Mabushi Terminal Opens New Chapter for Safe, Modern Transport in Abuja — Tinubu

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Lauds Wike’s Bold Reforms, Says Renewed Hope Agenda Is Now Reality

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the newly commissioned Mabushi Bus Terminal as a powerful symbol of his administration’s commitment to safe, orderly, and economically empowering public transportation in Nigeria’s capital.

Speaking through the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, at the commissioning ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, President Tinubu said the facility represents more than just a building—it reflects the transformational vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action.

“No longer will our citizens be at the mercy of unregulated, impromptu pick-up points,” the President declared. “They will now access a secure and well-regulated terminal where both drivers and vehicles are known and registered.”

He noted that the Mabushi terminal—one of three under construction in the Federal Capital Territory—is a critical response to longstanding challenges of transport-related insecurity and congestion. “This project is a vital step toward eliminating ‘one chance’ criminal operations and traffic chaos that undermine the safety and order of our capital city,” Tinubu said.

The President further highlighted the economic impact of the initiative, revealing that over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs were created during the construction phase. “This terminal has put food on tables and restored hope to families. It is a practical expression of our administration’s dedication to job creation as a key pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

He commended the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his visionary leadership and drive. “His commitment to delivering quality infrastructure for the people of Abuja is evident in the speed and excellence with which this terminal was completed,” Tinubu said. He also lauded the project contractors, Planet Projects, for turning the vision into reality.

Beyond serving as a transit point, the terminal features commercial and recreational amenities such as cinema halls, food courts, and rest zones, designed to enhance commuter experience and reflect the dignity of Nigeria’s capital. “We are not just opening a building,” Tinubu remarked. “We are opening a new chapter in public transport in Abuja.”

In his own remarks, FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike described the project as a significant milestone and a direct response to insecurity, urban disorder, and the lack of organized transport facilities in the capital city.

“It is unfortunate that a city like Abuja has never had a proper bus terminal before now,” Wike said. “But today, that has changed. This terminal is not just about buses—it’s about dignity, safety, and a better quality of life for Abuja residents.”

He said the terminal is part of a broader strategy to curb the menace of “one chance” operators and unauthorized vehicles on the roads. “With this facility, commuters will know the registered drivers and vehicles they are boarding. That alone improves safety and public trust,” he explained.

Wike revealed that the terminal will not be operated by the FCTA’s Transport Secretariat but will be concessioned to private operators to ensure efficient, round-the-clock service delivery. “This is a 24-hour terminal. It will include food courts, restrooms, and entertainment facilities, offering a safe and convenient environment for commuters,” he said.

The Minister also unveiled plans to expand the transport infrastructure across the territory. “In addition to Mabushi, we are constructing terminals at Kubwa and the Central Business District. The Kubwa terminal will be commissioned next week, while the Central Area terminal will be completed before the end of the year. We also plan to build new terminals in Wuye, Bwari, and Kuje before the year ends,” he added.

Wike thanked President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their consistent support, promising that the FCT Administration will continue to deliver people-centered projects that improve the lives of residents and modernize the capital.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, hailed the Tinubu administration for making an unprecedented federal investment in Nigeria’s transport infrastructure.

“This is the first time in the history of Nigeria that the Federal Government is making this scale of investment in the transport sector, outside rail and road infrastructure,” Alkali said. He announced that the President had approved the construction of six new bus terminals across the six geopolitical zones, located in Abeokuta, Onitsha, Warri, Lokoja, Gombe, and Kano.

He explained that the locations were strategically chosen based on commercial viability and regional development potential. “These projects aim to stimulate inclusive growth by providing modern, efficient transport facilities in critical areas,” he said.

Alkali emphasized the importance of transportation as a driver of national development. “Globally, transport is recognised as an enabler of economic growth. It is a gateway to job creation, trade, and improved livelihoods,” he noted.

The Minister praised Barr. Wike for initiating and delivering the Mabushi terminal project, calling it a perfect example of how the Renewed Hope Agenda is being implemented at the sub-national level. “This terminal will improve public transport efficiency and stimulate economic activities in Abuja,” he said.

He urged transport unions and stakeholders to take full ownership of the facility and ensure its optimal use. “I appeal to all relevant stakeholders to support this initiative. Let us make the most of this investment, protect it, and encourage the government to do more for the dignity and welfare of our road users and transport operators,” Alkali added.

The Minister pledged continued collaboration between the Ministry of Transportation and the FCT Administration to deliver more infrastructure that supports mobility, safety, and economic growth. “We will keep working together to place transportation at the heart of our national development agenda,” he concluded.

The commissioning of the Mabushi Bus Terminal marks the beginning of a new era in public transportation for Abuja—one that prioritizes safety, dignity, efficiency, and economic empowerment in line with the Tinubu administration’s vision for a modern Nigeria.

Private Operators to Run Mabushi Terminal as FCT Targets Safer, Smarter Transport System, Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Says Terminal Will Operate 24/7 to Curb ‘One Chance’, Reduce Congestion, Create Jobs

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that the newly inaugurated Mabushi Bus Terminal will be operated by private sector concessionaires, not the FCTA’s Transport Secretariat. The terminal, he added, will operate 24 hours daily and is designed to tackle the rising insecurity and disorganization in Abuja’s public transport system.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, Wike said the terminal marks a major turning point in the capital’s transport development. “This terminal will not be managed by the Transport Secretariat. Instead, we will concession it to private operators for efficient service delivery. It will run 24/7 with facilities such as food courts, restrooms, and entertainment lounges,” he stated.

He explained that the project goes beyond transportation—it is about restoring order, protecting lives, and raising the standard of commuting in the FCT. “We are trying to eliminate the ‘one chance’ syndrome where commuters are attacked by unknown drivers. With this terminal, passengers will board registered vehicles driven by known operators, making the transport system more secure,” Wike said.

The Minister also lamented that, despite being the nation’s capital, Abuja had lacked a formal bus terminal for decades. “It is unfortunate that a city like Abuja never had a proper bus terminal until now. But we thank God that today we have changed the narrative,” he noted, expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly for their support.

Highlighting the broader transport infrastructure plan, Wike revealed that Mabushi is one of three major terminals being built across the FCT. “This is just the beginning. We have three bus terminals in the works—Mabushi, Kubwa, and the Central Business District. The Kubwa terminal is ready and will be commissioned next week, while the Central Area terminal will be completed before the end of the year. We are also planning new ones in Wuye, Bwari, and Kuje this year,” he announced.

Wike said the terminals are designed not only to improve mobility but also to reduce indiscriminate parking on roads, which often causes gridlock in busy parts of the city. “This terminal provides an organised parking and loading space, which will help reduce traffic congestion on major roads in Abuja,” he added.

The Mabushi Bus Terminal, constructed by Planet Projects, features state-of-the-art facilities and is set to become a model for urban transport infrastructure in Nigeria. Wike concluded by thanking President Tinubu for his unwavering support and formally invited him to declare the terminal open.

With the commissioning of this terminal, the FCT Administration under Wike’s leadership is positioning Abuja for a more structured, secure, and investor-friendly transportation landscape—bringing the Renewed Hope Agenda to life through modern, people-focused infrastructure.

Tinubu to Visit Benue Wednesday Over Killings, Urges National Unity

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…As President Commissions Abuja Water Project, Lauds Wike’s Leadership

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced plans to visit Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, to commiserate with victims and families affected by the recent wave of violent attacks that claimed several lives. Speaking in Abuja on Monday during the commissioning of the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project, Tinubu described the killings as a painful tragedy and emphasized the need for unity, mutual understanding, and peace across the country.

“I sympathize with the people of Benue. I have spoken to the Governor, the leadership, and the people. I will adjust my schedule and go to Benue on Wednesday,” President Tinubu stated, before calling for a minute’s silence in honour of the victims. “We are one single, huge family living in the same house, staying in different rooms. Living together in harmony must be the result of our diversity for prosperity. We must consciously learn to live together and build trust, no matter the difficulty,” he said.

The President made these remarks while inaugurating the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project, a major capital project designed to extend potable water to underserved areas through Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6 of the Federal Capital Territory’s water distribution network. Commending the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his results-driven leadership, Tinubu said: “Thank you, Wike, for exhibiting the great virtue of leadership—being conscious of the needs of the people and committing to deliver on them.” In his response, Wike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equity through infrastructure delivery. “This water project is not just a technical achievement; it is about reaching the people who have long been neglected. For years, our people have struggled to get clean water. Today, we have changed that narrative,” Wike said, pledging continued action on roads, health, and education to reflect the Renewed Hope Agenda in the FCT.

Wike Mocks 2027 Political Coalitions: “Born and Dead Same Day”

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at emerging political movements eyeing the 2027 general elections, describing them as unstable coalitions that “were born and died the same day.” Speaking at the commissioning of the long-awaited Apo-Wasa road on Friday, Wike used the platform to dismiss critics and opposition figures while reaffirming the Tinubu administration’s focus on real development rather than political theatrics.

“Up till now, they haven’t even settled among themselves. Which coalition are they talking about—the left or the right? These are coalitions that were born and died the same day,” Wike said to an enthusiastic crowd. He cautioned residents of the FCT against being swayed by political actors who have neither records of performance nor credibility, urging them instead to align with those who deliver results. “You allowed outsiders to deceive you for years. Now, the man who promised and delivered this road is here, yet you’re listening to people whose names may not even make it to the ballot.”

Wike didn’t mince words in calling out political actors who failed to protect their previous administrations but are now attempting to rewrite history. “If you didn’t defend your boss when you had the chance, that’s your failure. You sat back and watched your government collapse. Me—I will defend mine. And I have the capacity to do so,” he stated defiantly.

Addressing criticisms surrounding the naming of completed projects after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the FCT Minister said the decisions were deliberate and justifiable. “If I gave it to you, would you be happy? Of course not. You go on television and lie every day. But when it’s my turn, I will do it my way,” Wike said.

With the 17-day commissioning exercise in full swing, Wike declared that the momentum for infrastructure delivery in the FCT is unstoppable. “We are not tired. Abuja is working again. If you love this city, come and see it for yourself. If you don’t, stay blind. But know this—we are here to deliver, not to please,” he said.

Rounding off his address with a political message ahead of 2027, Wike made a bold pledge to return and hold voters accountable: “Come 2027, I will come back. And I will say you promised me, I delivered. Now give me. That’s politics. That’s life.”

“Ground Rent Critics, Come and See What Your Money Has Done” — Wike Declares at Apo-Wassa Road Commissioning

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, on Friday threw down the gauntlet to critics of the FCT Administration’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) reforms, particularly those who opposed ground rent payments, by inviting them to witness the results of their contributions. Speaking during the commissioning of the newly completed 15-kilometre Apo-Wassa dual carriageway, Wike said the project was a testament to what strategic use of revenue could achieve.

“To those always shouting ‘Ground Rent! Ground Rent!’ come and see what your ground rent has done. This is 15 kilometers of economic opportunity unlocked,” Wike said to thunderous applause from residents, traditional leaders, and stakeholders. “You no longer have to crowd into the city centre to enjoy good roads or fast access. From Ketti to the Central Area now takes just 10 minutes. That’s what integrated development looks like.”

The newly completed road—cutting through challenging terrain including over 500 metres of solid rock—connects Apo to Wassa, linking surrounding satellite towns such as Takushara, Ketti, and Kabusa. Wike said the infrastructure upgrade had significantly reduced travel time, improved safety, and spurred commercial activity, noting, “This place used to be a nightmare. Ask anyone who passed through here. Now it’s a corridor of transformation.”

He emphasized that the progress being recorded under his leadership was not accidental but the result of unwavering political support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “You can be given an office, but without support, you’ll only sit there doing nothing. Mr. President gave us the responsibility and the backing—and that’s why today, we’re delivering,” Wike said. “Support isn’t dashed out. You earn it. If you want it, go and work for it.”

Taking a swipe at critics who accuse the administration of media theatrics, Wike reiterated that his focus was on completion, not ceremony. “This is not about calling cameras to show where a project may start. This is about showing you what we’ve completed. We are not here to flag off. We are here to commission,” he declared, referring to the ongoing 17 days of consecutive project inaugurations across the territory.

He further challenged doubters to take a personal tour of Wassa Junction and its environs. “Go and see with your own eyes. If you still don’t believe it, then choose to remain blind—but don’t mislead others,” he warned. Wike noted that many of the satellite communities now connected by this road had long been sidelined in previous administrations, but that era of neglect was over.

The Minister extended his appreciation to the National Assembly leadership for their pivotal role in approving FCT budgetary allocations. “Without their legislative backing, timely funding of projects like this would be impossible. We thank them for believing in what we’re doing and ensuring that development doesn’t get lost in bureaucracy,” he said.

Wike concluded his remarks with a rallying call to residents to focus on visible results, not political distractions. “This road you see here today is funded by the resources we generated internally—the same ground rent people complain about. That’s how governance works. You pay your dues, and you get results. That’s what we’ve done,” he said, promising that the administration was just getting started. “Today it’s Apo-Wassa. Tomorrow it’s another. Seventeen days of delivery is not a fluke—it’s a commitment.”

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