The Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (FCT MPWB) has commenced the distribution of 32-kilogram standard luggage bags to FCT pilgrims ahead of their return from the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
This distribution comes in preparation for the official start of return flights to Nigeria, scheduled by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to begin on June 13, 2025.
Officials overseeing the process advised all pilgrims to strictly adhere to the approved baggage policy to avoid delays or penalties during airport checks. The uniform luggage provision is aimed at ensuring smooth processing at departure and arrival terminals.
FCT MPWB has assured that the exercise will continue until every registered pilgrim receives a bag, as part of efforts to guarantee an orderly and stress-free return journey for all.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has asserted that no nation can truly progress without a solid infrastructure base, describing it as the “architecture of equality” and the cornerstone of national development.
Wike made the declaration on Thursday while delivering the 2025 edition of the Distinguished Personality Lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. His lecture, titled “The Nigeria of Our Dreams,” examined the critical roles of infrastructure, leadership, and good governance in the country’s future.
“Infrastructure is not just about roads and bridges,” Wike said. “It is about connecting destinies, unlocking human potential, and laying the foundation for sustainable national transformation.”
He stressed that infrastructure is a key driver of dignity, inclusion, productivity, and hope—bridging the wide gap between urban privilege and rural neglect.
“The Nigeria of our dreams is one where a child in rural Zamfara enjoys the same access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities as a child in urban Lagos,” he declared. “Reliable transportation, steady power supply, and access to digital technology should not be luxuries—they are necessities.”
Wike commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing infrastructure through his Renewed Hope Agenda, saying it reflects bold leadership and a deep commitment to repositioning the country.
“Even the harshest critic of President Tinubu would admit that infrastructure delivery is improving,” Wike stated. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is more than a slogan—it’s a recalibration of our national priorities.”
He cited Abuja’s rapid transformation as a symbol of what is possible when vision is backed by political will, noting that his own efforts in the FCT have been propelled by the President’s unwavering support.
“Though I may be driving the engine of change in the FCT, none of it would have been possible without President Tinubu’s relentless support,” he emphasized.
According to Wike, the capital city has, within two years, evolved into a more fitting reflection of Nigeria’s status as Africa’s most populous nation—proof of what determined leadership can accomplish.
Beyond infrastructure, Wike identified other critical pillars for achieving the Nigeria of our dreams: strong democratic institutions, adherence to the rule of law, quality education, efficient healthcare, human capital development, economic growth, security, national unity, and the empowerment of local governments.
“Democracy must go beyond periodic elections,” he said. “It must become a culture of transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership.”
Quoting Stanford University scholar Prof. Larry Diamond, Wike reminded his audience that sustaining democracy is often more difficult than attaining it.
“Democracy is not a potted plant to be uprooted and transplanted anywhere,” he said. “It requires nurturing—through sacrifice, commitment, and constant vigilance.”
He also called for a new ethic in public service—one grounded in integrity and responsibility.
“Holding public office is not a personal privilege,” he stated. “It is a sacred trust that must be honoured and protected.”
In his closing remarks, Wike urged both leaders and citizens to take collective responsibility for building a just, innovative, and equitable Nigeria.
“The Nigerian dream is not something to merely wish for—it’s something we must work for,” he said. “We must build it daily, with responsible leadership, active citizenship, and unwavering determination to make our country great.”
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that the newly completed Abuja International Conference Centre will be professionally maintained to global standards, stressing that sustainability—not political patronage—will define its future.
Speaking during an inspection of key projects across the capital city, Wike said the FCT Administration has entered an agreement with construction giant Julius Berger to manage and maintain the Conference Centre after completion, ensuring the facility does not suffer the fate of poorly maintained public infrastructure.
“We will not hand this place over to any politician. Maintenance is our biggest challenge in Nigeria, and we want to change that narrative,” the Minister said.
“Julius Berger, which built this center, will be responsible for its maintenance. We are finalizing a proper agreement where every user of the facility will contribute to its upkeep.”
Wike assured that the Centre would commence operations shortly after commissioning, adding that Nigerian personnel already trained under expert supervision are fully prepared to run the facility.
“There’s no need to worry about the technology. It’s not complicated, and our staff are ready. The company that installed the systems will also handle maintenance to ensure functionality,” he said.
Highlighting the broader vision behind recent infrastructure delivery in the FCT, Wike emphasized that sustainability, accountability, and strong leadership have driven results despite limited resources and bureaucratic hurdles.
“Everything comes down to leadership. Once you set clear goals and remain committed, results will follow,” he said.
“You don’t need unlimited resources; you just need to manage what you have effectively. Bureaucracy can slow things down, but if your vision is clear, people will align.”
The Minister, accompanied by top officials, inspected several projects including the Nigeria–São Tomé & Príncipe Investment Freezone Enterprise (NSIFE), Gishiri Road, Onesex District, and the new development in Wassa. He commended the quality of work by construction firms and described the progress as one of his administration’s proudest moments.
“At a time when Nigerians are facing economic challenges, we are still able to deliver critical infrastructure,” he said.
“We thank God for the opportunity, and we appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support.”
Wike also revealed that some infrastructure like the emergency A2-Pia road project were completed under tough financial constraints, showcasing the FCTA’s resolve to respond swiftly to the needs of residents.
As Abuja continues to expand, the Minister said the FCT Administration remains focused on projects that not only se
rve immediate needs but are built to last, with systems in place to prevent future decay.
“We are not just building infrastructure—we are building institutions and setting standards. That is the legacy we want to leave behind,” he concluded.
Nigeria Partners with Australia, Commonwealth to Train Mining Experts
***Alake launches landmark technical training programme at Murdoch University
In a bold move to strengthen Nigeria’s mining sector, the Federal Government has launched an intensive technical training programme for mining professionals in partnership with Australia and the Commonwealth Government.
The initiative, officially flagged off by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, at Murdoch University in Western Australia, marks the beginning of a bilateral collaboration aimed at closing Nigeria’s technical skills gap in solid mineral exploration and development.
Backed by the Australian Government and the Australian High Commission in Nigeria, the two-week pilot programme will train eleven Nigerian professionals in key areas such as extractive metallurgy, sustainable geochemistry, and mineral science research. The programme also includes field excursions and engagements with leading experts in mining operations, sustainability, and investment.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Alake described the programme as the fulfillment of a vision conceived during the 2023 Africa Down Under Conference in Perth, where he signed a bilateral agreement with the Government of Western Australia and Murdoch University.
“This training is a major leap forward in our commitment to developing a technically proficient workforce,” he said. “I am deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, and to the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Leilani Bin-Juda, whose efforts were instrumental in bringing this to fruition.”
Alake thanked Murdoch University’s leadership for their openness and commitment to strengthening global cooperation in the mining sector. He encouraged participants to embrace the opportunity and return to Nigeria ready to influence policy and practice in the extractive industry.
“Let this be the beginning of a transformation—not just for you, but for millions of Nigerians who will benefit from a more efficient and transparent mining sector,” he charged the delegates.
Welcoming the Nigerian team, Murdoch University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew Deeks, said the programme aligns with the university’s vision of delivering impactful, ethical, and globally inclusive education.
“This collaboration demonstrates the power of international partnerships in solving global challenges. The Commonwealth Government’s support underscores the importance of shared knowledge and development,” Professor Deeks added.
Western Australia’s Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Hon. David Michael, also received the Nigerian delegation and pledged his government’s continued support. He noted that the Australian Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety will host the participants during their stay, providing hands-on exposure to best practices in the sector.
The training programme forms part of Nigeria’s broader effort to revitalize the solid minerals sector and promote sustainable development through strategic global partnerships.
The Former Chief of Staff to the Imo State Government, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu Visited the Renewed Hope Office In Umuahia In Solidarity With The Deputy Speaker Of The House Of Representatives, Rt Honourable Benjamin Kalu At The Weekend
Fast-rising real estate firm, Egovas Global Limited, has announced a new corporate identity Egovas Properties Limited as it marked two years of delivering what it calls “value-driven service to humanity” in Nigeria’s real estate sector.
Celebrating the milestone at a commemorative event, the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Blessing Ejedoh Gerald, declared that Egovas has, in just 24 months, emerged as the leading genuine real estate brand in the South-South, particularly in Delta State.
In a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, Gerald hinted that: “At Egovas, we’re not just selling land we’re building futures, empowering families, and enabling wealth creation through genuine real estate opportunities,” Gerald said.
She described the journey so far as “transformational,” noting that the firm has achieved significant milestones in real estate development, client satisfaction, and integrity in transactions.
Founded in 2023, the company has facilitated the acquisition and development of multiple estates and plots across Warri, Osubi, Agbarho, Ughelli, Jeddo, and Ebrumede towns that are fast becoming real estate hotspots in Delta.
“In just two years, we’ve opened two fully functional offices in Warri and Osubi, brought our services closer to our growing client base, and built a team of highly trained realtors and professionals,” the CEO added.
The rebranding to Egovas Properties Limited, Gerald explained, reflects the company’s broadened focus and long-term ambition to deliver quality, integrity, and professionalism in real estate.
“We are evolving with a renewed focus, but our core values integrity, transparency, and results remain unchanged,” she said.
Egovas Properties Limited offers a wide range of services, including:Land acquisition and sales in strategic, fast-developing locations,Property management and investment advisory for safe, smart returns,Real estate consultation to help clients make informed decisions, And construction and renovation of quality-assured buildings, delivered on time and on budget.
“We have maintained a spotless track record of genuine property transactions free from litigation or government encumbrances,” Gerald noted, reaffirming the company’s focus on “making land and home ownership a reality for everyday Nigerians.”
As the company steps into its next chapter under a new name, Gerald promised even greater impact, innovation, and client-centered services.
“The past two years have been nothing short of transformational,” she said. “And we’re just getting started.”
The Yargote Foundation for children, Youth and Women development, a Non-Governmental Organisation on Saturday in Abuja launched the second cohort of its Empower the boychild project in kabusa community.
At the screening and registration exercise for the project, the Executive Director and Founder of the foundation, Mrs Anna-Hussaini Pai, said the project aims to address the long-overlooked challenges faced by boys and steer them toward positive societal roles.
She revealed the plan to take the project across communities in the Federal Capital Territory, with the intention of enrolling at least 100 beneficiaries in each of these communities.
“This programme is designed not only to impart skills but to foster self-discovery and help the boys realise their full potential.
“Through this after-school programme, we offer both formal and informal education, teaching essential life skills often neglected in traditional schooling, such as personal hygiene, emotional intelligence, and societal responsibilities,” Pai explained.
Volunteers of the foundation highlighted the critical need for the initiative, noting that the boy child had been neglected in many empowerment efforts to date.
Miss Adze Inki, a volunteer, stressed, “We are determined to change the narrative and restore dignity to the boy child.
“Many societal issues stem from boys lacking guidance during their formative years. This project seeks to redirect that energy positively.
“The empowerment programme, which will run from June through November, will culminate in a summit that brings together participants to celebrate their growth and achievements.”
Mrs Hannah Ayhok, another volunteer, outlined the programme’s broad curriculum, which included lessons on family dynamics, peer pressure, community engagement, and civic duties.
“There is a damaging cultural expectation that boys should suppress their emotions, leading to harmful stereotypes and behaviours.
“Our programme encourages boys to express themselves healthily and to embrace their roles responsibly,”Ayhok noted.
Miss Theresa Reng, also a volunteer, expressed concern over the number of boys aimlessly roaming streets without direction.
“This initiative offers hope by providing mentorship and counselling, giving these boys a chance to rethink their paths and become productive members of society.”
She said with the “Empower the Boy Child Project,” Yargote Foundation hoped to spark lasting change, empowering boys to become responsible men who contribute positively to their communities.
The Honorable Minister of Defence, Mohammed H.E. Badaru Abubakar CON, mni has concluded a two-day working visit to key military institutions in Kaduna State, including the Nigerian Defence Academy, Nigerian Army Command Engineering Depot (CED), Buffalo Engineering Technical Services Limited (BETSL), and the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT).
Accompanied by senior military officials, including Major General M.L.D. Saraso, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division; Major General A.K. Ibrahim, Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy; and Air Vice Marshal Sani Labaran Rabe, Commandant of AFIT, the Minister engaged with personnel and observed the advancements in military training and production.
In his remarks to journalists following the visits, the Minister emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to transitioning from foreign military procurement to local production of combat vehicles, arms, ammunition, and other military equipment. This transition marks a significant step toward self-reliance, enhancing national security.
“The ongoing efforts in training, local production, and refurbishment of military assets are commendable,” the Minister stated. “During my inspections, I witnessed the impressive capabilities in repairing and refurbishing damaged Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, tanks, and Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs). New combat platforms, including Buffalo APCs, MRAPs, bulletproof glass, spare parts, and surveillance UAVs, are being developed in our workshops. Some of these assets are already being redeployed to operational theaters.”
He praised the Armed Forces for their innovative initiatives and highlighted the essential role of Training, Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) in achieving operational excellence. He called for continued collaboration between military institutions and increased investment in military RDI to enhance efficiency and reduce dependence on imported hardware.
Badaru also noted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defense capabilities, referencing the recent signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill into law. This legislation aims to facilitate the local production, repair, refurbishment, and supply of military hardware and ordnance for the armed forces and other security agencies.
He stressed the importance of ongoing support for institutions such as the Nigerian Defence Academy, AFIT, CED, and BETSL to ensure the development of skilled, competent, and dedicated military personnel and enhance defense production capabilities.
The Federal Government has launched an ambitious national partnership to eliminate cervical cancer in Nigeria by 2030, with First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s ₦1 billion intervention and unwavering advocacy earning praise as a catalyst for this historic initiative.
The official launch of the Partnership for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Nigeria (PECCiN) held on Tuesday at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, drew attention from high-level stakeholders, including the First Lady and key health officials.
Delivering a special address at the event, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, described the First Lady as “our chief public health champion,” applauding her leadership, vision, and consistent investment in cancer prevention.
> “Your Excellency, your unwavering commitment to improving population health, particularly your willingness to lead this partnership, is an inspiration to us all,” Salako said.
“Your generous donation of ₦1 billion through the Renewed Hope Initiative provided the lifeline that energized the National Taskforce and set it on the path to deliver on its mandate.”
He recalled how Senator Tinubu led the introduction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in 2023, resulting in the vaccination of nearly 14 million young girls across Nigeria — a monumental step in preventing cervical cancer.
Despite being preventable and curable if detected early, cervical cancer remains the second most common and second deadliest cancer among Nigerian women, mainly due to late diagnosis, low awareness, and poor access to treatment.
> “Today, we are changing that narrative,” Dr. Salako declared. “This partnership reflects our collective resolve to protect the health and dignity of more than 60 million Nigerian women at risk.”
The event marked one year since the National Taskforce for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer was inaugurated by the Ministry, with a clear mandate to work with the Nigeria Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) and align Nigeria’s efforts with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 90–70–90 targets — aiming for 90% HPV vaccination, 70% screening coverage, and 90% access to treatment by 2030.
Under the leadership of former Health Minister Prof. Isaac Folorunso Adewole, the taskforce has developed a strategic policy framework, conducted high-level advocacy, and successfully convened this nationwide partnership.
Dr. Salako reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to tackling cancer across the board through prevention, early detection, and affordable treatment. He announced the establishment of six cancer centres of excellence — one per geopolitical zone — with three already completed and the others scheduled for commissioning by February 2026.
> “In addition to the six new centres, seven other federal hospitals are already offering oncology services,” he noted. “We plan to upgrade six more federal institutions in 2025 to ensure nationwide access to quality cancer care before 2030.”
To ease the financial burden on patients, Dr. Salako said the Federal Government is strengthening the Cancer Health Fund and exploring new models, including the Catastrophic Health Insurance Fund, to support Nigerians facing expensive, long-term cancer treatment.
He also disclosed that the Nuclear Medicine Technical Working Group has been revived to enhance cancer diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and post-treatment surveillance.
Dr. Salako closed his address with a call to action:
> “The elimination of cervical cancer in Nigeria is possible. We have the political will, the leadership, the technical know-how, and the tools. I call on state governments, development partners, the private sector, civil society, and the media to rally behind this mission.”
> “Let us work hand in hand with our Chief Public Health Champion, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to ensure that the vision of a cervical cancer-free Nigeria becomes reality.”
The PECCiN launch signals a new era in Nigeria’s fight against cancer, anchoring hope in a united, science-driven, and compassionate approach to saving lives.
…10-Year Partnership Targets Women, Children, and Vulnerable Groups in Three Pilot States
In a landmark move to strengthen Nigeria’s health system, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the TY Danjuma Foundation have signed a $2.26 million agreement to expand healthcare access for underserved communities across the country.
The 10-year partnership, formalized in Abuja, will fund WHO Nigeria’s country workplan through 2034. The initiative prioritizes integrated health services, with an initial focus on Taraba, Edo, and Enugu States—targeting women, children, and vulnerable populations.
The flexible funding model enables WHO to respond swiftly to emerging health needs while aligning with national priorities, a critical advantage amid global health financing constraints.
“We are proud to partner with WHO to advance Nigeria’s health priorities. This agreement reflects our commitment to improving lives and fostering sustainable development,” said Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), Founder and Chairman of the TY Danjuma Foundation.
Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, described the partnership as a strategic boost to equity-driven healthcare reforms.
“This agreement is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to health equity. We welcome this collaboration as it will help deliver sustainable, high-impact health solutions to our people,” Pate said.
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, WHO Acting Regional Director for Africa, praised the timing and structure of the support.
“This long-term, flexible funding could not be more timely. It enhances our ability to support national leadership and drive health impact where it matters most,” he said.
Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Representative in Nigeria, described the collaboration as a “new benchmark for health partnerships in Nigeria,” adding that the initiative is expected to deliver measurable improvements in health outcomes for marginalized communities.
Founded in 2009, the TY Danjuma Foundation supports health and education projects through grassroots NGOs, particularly in Taraba and Edo States. The new partnership with WHO marks one of the largest philanthropic investments in Nigeria’s healthcare sector from a local foundation.
The signing ceremony brought together key players from government, civil society, traditional institutions, and the diplomatic corps, all aligned behind a shared vision to build a more resilient and inclusive healthcare system.
This partnership signals a growing shift toward sustainable, African-led solutions to health challenges—setting a strong precedent for future collaboration between international agencies and indigenous philanthropy.
