The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has extended her condolences to the Ona of Abaji, His Royal Majesty Dr. Adamu Baba Yunusa, on the death of his wife, Hajiya Hadiza Adamu Baba.
In a message of sympathy, Mahmoud described the passing of Hajiya Hadiza as an “irreplaceable loss,” noting that she would be remembered for her compassion, dignity, and steadfast support to the throne.
“On behalf of the FCT Administration and my family, I extend heartfelt condolences to Your Royal Majesty, the Royal Family, and the entire people of Abaji,” the minister said.
She added: “The death of a wife is an irreplaceable loss, and I can only imagine the grief this sad occurrence has brought upon you. Her legacy of compassion and support will forever be remembered.”
Mahmoud prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the deceased Aljannah Firdaus and give the royal household the strength to bear the painful loss. She also assured the monarch and his family of her unwavering support during this period of mourning.
The decision by Dangote Petroleum Refinery to sell petrol in US dollars instead of naira has raised fresh concerns of imminent fuel price increases, according to the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).
In a memo to customers, the refinery said it could no longer sustain petrol sales in naira due to volumes exceeding its crude allocations.
“Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has been selling petroleum products in excess of our Naira-Crude allocations and, consequently, we are unable to sustain PMS sales in Naira going forward,” the company stated.
Reacting, IPMAN President Abubakar Shettima confirmed receipt of the communication and warned that prices would “definitely rise” under the new dollar pricing. He added that the association’s National Executive Council (NEC) would meet on Monday to decide its response.
Despite the pricing change, Shettima assured that supply would not be disrupted, noting that local production from the refinery would maintain availability across the country.
Analysts, however, caution that the policy could worsen naira depreciation and inflation, as more marketers are forced to source foreign exchange.
Meanwhile, the refinery dismissed allegations by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) of a mass sack linked to unionisation.
In a statement, management said the reorganisation was aimed at strengthening operations and addressing sabotage risks within the facility, insisting that “over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our Petroleum Refinery at present.”
It added that only a minimal number of staff were affected, with fresh recruitment still ongoing.
The 650,000 barrels-per-day Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest, has been touted as a game-changer for Nigeria’s fuel sector, but its new pricing policy is already stirring debate over affordability and economic impact.
Thirteen miners have been confirmed dead after a mine pit collapsed in Kadauri village, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State, the Federal Government said on Sunday.
The incident, triggered by heavy rainfall, trapped at least 15 itinerant miners. Rescue workers have so far recovered 13 bodies, while efforts continue to retrieve the remaining two.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development said federal mine officers in Zamfara have been deployed to lead the operation in collaboration with state officials.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, described the tragedy as both avoidable and unfortunate, adding that the site would be sealed once recovery efforts are completed.
“I received with deep shock the report of the unfortunate incident in Zamfara which has unfortunately resulted in some casualties. Our first responders have been mobilized to the site and are working with officials of the state government on rescue operations, after which the site will be sealed off,” Alake said in a statement issued by his media aide, Segun Tomori.
Preliminary findings indicate the site was being exploited by illegal miners who rushed in with rudimentary tools after traces of gold were discovered, ignoring the safety risks posed by the loose sandy soil.
Alake recalled that the Federal Government had launched Mining Marshals to curb illegal mining, leading to over 300 arrests and the closure of 98 illegal sites across 10 states and the FCT. He said plans are underway to expand the marshals’ operations with more personnel and logistics support.
The minister also disclosed that satellite surveillance systems are being installed to provide real-time monitoring of mining activities nationwide.
Reaffirming government’s zero-tolerance stance, Alake warned: “We will not relent until we rid this country of the nefarious activities of illegal miners. With satellite surveillance and other enforcement measures underway, we aim to drastically reduce mine collapses across the country and tighten the noose around sponsors of illegal mining.”
The World Bank has hailed the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project as one of Nigeria’s most successful interventions, describing its impact on agriculture, livelihoods, and environmental restoration as a model for development.
Speaking during a visit to the palace of the Etsu of Kwali on Thursday, the Bank’s Practice Manager for Environment in West Africa and the Sahel, Ellysa Baroudy, expressed delight at the project’s achievements in reversing land degradation, boosting food production, and improving rural incomes.“It is always difficult to implement a program, but ACReSAL has succeeded in Nigeria. I was touched by the women’s voices and how this project has changed livelihoods. Seeing before and after photos of the landscape and the reduction in gullies shows the tremendous work that has been done,” Baroudy said.
She added: “We don’t always have successful projects, but this is one. You knew how to deploy the resources to make a real difference in people’s lives. I am truly touched by your efforts and the amazing welcome.”The FCT Mandate Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development, Comrade Abdullahi Suleiman Ango, described ACReSAL as a “game-changer,” noting that it is addressing the challenges of urbanization, population growth, and declining agricultural productivity.“Through the provision of free machinery, farm inputs, solar-powered boreholes, and the Community Revolving Fund, farmers are now producing more food, raising incomes, and improving their quality of life,” Ango said.
He assured that the FCT Administration would continue to support the project, while commending the role of the Minister of State for FCT and technical committees in ensuring effective oversight.In his remarks, the Etsu of Kwali, Alhaji Luka Nizassan III, pledged traditional rulers’ support for sustaining ACReSAL.“We don’t just want to be part of the project; we want to own it. That will make it sustainable. We want you to return even after the programme ends and see that it is working even better,” the monarch said.
Task Team Leader, Dr. Joy Iganya Agene, emphasized that the project’s success rests on strong community participation, good governance structures, and the active involvement of traditional leaders.
She described Kwali as “the heartbeat of ACReSAL interventions” and a model for resilience and sustainability.“Engaging communities, particularly women and youths, is creating ownership and building a culture of sustainability. That is the true measure of success,” Dr. Agene said, adding that ACReSAL is not just about tackling environmental degradation but also about driving food security, economic growth, and climate resilience.
Earlier, FCT ACReSAL Project Coordinator, Mrs. Caroline Opara, noted that the gains recorded in Kwali were due largely to community ownership and traditional leadership support.
The review meeting brought together senior World Bank officials, the Federal Project Management Unit, and FCT leaders to consolidate progress and strengthen collaboration for environmental sustainability and agricultural resilience.
The first batch of Nigerian Christian pilgrims will depart Jordan today, marking the beginning of the return journey for participants in the 2025 delayed Easter Pilgrimage.
According to the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), the contingent includes pilgrims from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Benue, Edo, Taraba, and Ondo States. They are set to be airlifted back to Nigeria after completing their spiritual activities in the Holy Land.
Executive Secretary of NCPC, Rt. Rev. Stephen Adegbite, represented by Bishop Raphael Nwankwo, expressed satisfaction with the pilgrims’ conduct during their stay. He assured that logistics and safety arrangements have been finalized to guarantee a smooth airlift.
“The commission has worked closely with our partners in Jordan and Nigerian authorities to ensure the safety and comfort of our pilgrims. We are confident this first batch will arrive home safely, with subsequent flights following in quick succession,” Adegbite stated.
Medical personnel and NCPC officials are accompanying the pilgrims to provide continued support until their arrival in Nigeria.
This year’s pilgrimage drew hundreds of Christians nationwide who retraced biblical sites, deepened their faith, and prayed for Nigeria’s peace and development.
Director of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Gloria Dandam, commended the pilgrims for their orderly conduct throughout the tour and praised the commitment of officials who ensured the exercise was seamless.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of work at the construction site of the new division for the Appeal Court, warning the contractor to expedite efforts to meet deadlines.
“If you ask me, am I happy? Certainly not. But not being happy will not solve the problem. The contractor will see me today, and we will see what can be done to expedite the speed of work,” Wike told journalists during an inspection of ongoing judiciary projects on Monday in Abuja.
The Minister, who had earlier promised that the facility would be ready by the next legal year, admitted concerns over possible delays but assured that the project would be delivered before the end of 2025.
“I make a promise to the crew that in their next legal year, education will take place in their new division. Having been there today, I am afraid the contractor may not meet up. But I do know it will not exceed this year,” he said.
Wike, however, expressed satisfaction with progress on other judiciary housing projects, including 20 units of duplexes for the FCT High Court, 10 units for the Court of Appeal, and additional quarters for the Federal High Court.
With full furnishing, the housing units are scheduled to be handed over by January 2026, though the Minister noted they could be completed earlier given the current pace.
The initiative, he explained, is part of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to judicial welfare and independence.
“This is an initiative from the President, who has never hidden his intention to provide welfare and make the judiciary independent. Judges should not live among criminals or tenants. With this, they will have their autonomy and carry out their duties effectively,” Wike added.
The Minister commended the contractors working on the judges’ quarters but urged them to sustain the momentum and deliver the projects on time.
By [Your Name], AbujaThe Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has said that while protest remains a legitimate right in every democracy, no amount of blackmail will derail President Bola Tinubu’s administration from delivering on its mandate.
Speaking at the official flag-off of the construction of Access Roads ILS 02 and ILS 03 (Timipre Sylva Street) in Mabushi District on Monday, Wike stressed that the Federal Government welcomes lawful demonstrations but will not succumb to threats or distractions.“Democracy is all about protest. You can protest, it is your right. But let me assure you, blackmail will not change anything. It will not stop what Mr. President is committed to doing for Nigerians,” Wike stated.
The Minister maintained that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is firmly on course, with infrastructure, education, health, transportation, and youth empowerment at the heart of government interventions in the FCT.
He noted that while some critics accuse his administration of focusing heavily on road projects, such criticisms are proof that visible progress is being made.“We didn’t come here for beauty contests. We came here to work, and at the right time, every sector will show its report card,” he said.
Wike also assured residents that only projects with available funds are being undertaken to prevent abandoned contracts, adding that accountability remains a guiding principle of his leadership.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Monday cleared forests and plantations in Abuja suspected to be hideouts for kidnappers, following a recent abduction attempt in Kpaduma and Kobi villages that claimed the life of a vigilante officer.
Director of the Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, said the clearance was part of ongoing efforts to deny criminals ungoverned spaces within the territory. “About a week ago, there was a reported case of kidnapping, and the suspects were traced to this area. That is why we are here this morning to ensure all the trees are brought down,” he stated.Galadima added that community leaders supported the exercise, stressing that the villages had also been victims of kidnappers and were not demanding compensation for the loss of economic trees.
Also speaking, Dr. Peter Olumiji, Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, who represented the Director of FCTA Security Services, confirmed that the September 15 kidnapping attempt was foiled, though one vigilante died in the operation.
He described the cleared forest as a known transit route for criminals linking Karu, Jikwoyi, Orozo, and Kurudu, and disclosed that the Administration would establish a 24-hour police post in the area, install solar-powered streetlights, deploy surveillance drones, and strengthen intelligence gathering to tackle insecurity.
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has urged the international community to scale up support for women’s economic empowerment, describing it as a vital pathway to reducing poverty, achieving equity, and promoting lasting peace.
She made the call at a high-level economic empowerment forum for women political leaders and economic experts, held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.Dr. Mahmoud expressed delight that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Renewed Hope Agenda has prioritized gender inclusion, youth development, and opportunities that enable women to thrive as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
She reaffirmed the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s commitment to providing women with equitable access to finance, skills, and markets to fully contribute to national growth.“
This gathering underscores the truth that gender equality is not a privilege but a fundamental right, and financing inclusive growth is a responsibility we must all shoulder,” she said. “By placing women at the centre of economic development, we invest in the transformation of families, communities, and nations.”
The forum, themed “Scaling Women’s Economic Empowerment: Financing Inclusive Growth for Peace, Development, and Human Rights,” brought together policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, diplomats, and other stakeholders to chart new strategies for advancing women’s empowerment globally.
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has expanded its Comprehensive Emergency Obstetrics and Neonatal Care (CEmONC) programme with the introduction of neonatal services in Kano State.
The scheme was formally launched with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Authority and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), witnessed by the Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf. Three other state-owned facilities Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, Mohammed Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital, and Khalifah Shiek Isiyaka Rabiu Paediatric Hospital were also enrolled.
NHIA Director-General, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, represented by the Director of Informal Sector Department, Dr. Sikiru Salaudeen, said the neonatal component builds on the successes of the maternal arm of the programme.
According to him in a statement by
Emmanuel Ononokpono, Acting Director of Media and Public Relations at NHIA, said the move reflects the Authority’s commitment to reducing maternal and child mortality and expanding access to quality healthcare for vulnerable groups.
He noted that, more than 200 facilities nationwide are already implementing the maternal component, with over 14,000 women treated 40 percent of them from Kano.
Dr. Salaudeen explained that the neonatal coverage includes birth asphyxia, neonatal sepsis, jaundice, and acute surgical emergencies. To ensure transparency, he said independent external verifiers have been engaged to monitor the initiative.
Commending the programme, Professor Abdurahman Suwaid, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at AKTH, disclosed that 972 women have already benefitted from the maternal programme in the hospital, making it the largest NHIA beneficiary facility nationwide.
