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Abuja @50: Wike Applauds FCDA Boss, Promises More Roads, Projects for Communities

By
Toyin Adebayo
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As Abuja gears up to celebrate 50 years as Nigeria’s Federal Capital, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has praised the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, for what he described as purposeful and result-driven leadership in fast-tracking infrastructure development across the territory.

Wike spoke in Abuja when the management of the FCDA paid him a courtesy visit in his capacity as Chairman of the FCDA Board. He said the ongoing transformation of Abuja was a product of strong leadership and commitment within the system.

“Today, everybody is saying there is massive infrastructural development. If that was not made possible, we would still be hanging around and saying nothing is going on,” the minister said, stressing the need to appreciate those who laid the foundation for the progress being recorded.

The FCT minister revealed that a committee would soon be set up to plan activities to mark Abuja @50, which will coincide with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third year in office. According to him, the celebration would provide an opportunity to showcase Abuja’s growth and development over the decades.

Wike commended the Acting FCDA Executive Secretary for aligning with the vision of the present administration, insisting that leadership and performance, not sentiment, determine success in public office.

“When you have the right leadership, you get results. Since your appointment, you have shown that you are up and doing. If you are not, you won’t be there. There is no two ways about it,” he declared.

He also applauded the management and staff of the FCDA for their cooperation, noting that teamwork had played a key role in the achievements recorded so far. He urged public officers to remain focused on service delivery, reminding them that public office comes with responsibilities, not just privileges.

Expressing concern over neglect of some satellite communities, Wike described the situation in Tudun Madaki as “shocking,” citing poor access roads and lack of basic infrastructure. He assured residents that the ongoing road project linking the area to Zuba would open up the communities and improve their access to the city.

“We talk too much about the city and forget the communities. Government must reach the villages and make people feel its impact,” he said, adding that with President Tinubu’s support, the FCT Administration would continue to open up underserved areas.

Earlier, the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Dauda, presented a detailed account of Abuja’s development journey over the past 50 years, highlighting what he described as unprecedented achievements under the current administration. He said the FCT had witnessed its most productive period since August 2023, with dozens of projects completed and commissioned.

“About nine projects were commissioned in 2024, 17 in 2025, and by 2026, we are likely to hit 50 projects,” Dauda said, praising President Tinubu and Wike for their leadership and reaffirming FCDA’s commitment to building Abuja into a world-class capital city as it marks its golden jubilee.

Wike Inspects Key Abuja Projects, Assures Completion by May, Says Politics Won’t Stall Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has assured residents that major infrastructure projects across Abuja will be completed and inaugurated by the end of May, declaring that political activities, including the forthcoming area council elections, will not slow down development.

Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing projects, Wike described the pace and quality of work as “very encouraging,” stressing that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is being translated into tangible results on the ground.

“We are happy with what we have seen. By the end of May, this project will be handed over, and it is one of the projects lined up for inauguration during Mr President’s third year in office,” the minister said.

Wike first inspected the Institutional Research Road, a strategic link road connecting Nile University, the Body of Benchers and other institutions, which serves as an alternative route to the old EFCC road. He noted that the road, when completed, would significantly ease traffic flow in the area.

According to him, the contractor has committed to completing and handing over the project by the end of May.

From there, the minister moved to the Body of Benchers extension building, where he disclosed that construction work is almost 80 per cent completed.

“The work is well done. What is left now is basically landscaping,” Wike said.

The inspection also covered major road projects stretching from Euclid Road through Bright Road down to Tungan Madaki, covering not less than seven kilometres. Wike highlighted key infrastructure along the corridor, including a large conference hall and a major bridge with four spans, describing the development as a major breakthrough for communities that had long suffered neglect.

“You can imagine what these communities have gone through. It is unimaginable. But we thank God that we now have the opportunity to open up these areas,” he said.

Wike explained that the project also addressed long-standing demands by local villagers for compensation and inclusion, after initial plans focused only on a second carriageway.

“They demanded that if compensation was to be paid for crops, they should also be linked to the city. And that is what we are doing today — a promise made, a promise fulfilled,” he stated.

He added that contractors have given assurances that the major road projects would be completed between the end of May and early June.

Reacting to concerns that political activities could disrupt project execution, Wike dismissed such fears, insisting that governance must remain people-focused.

“Politics is different. You have to serve the people. Politics has its own time, and the work will continue. Politics will not affect what we are doing,” he said.

He emphasized that constant supervision and field inspections by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) leadership were key to sustaining progress.

“The only way people will be happy and believe that the Renewed Hope Agenda is real is by delivering these projects. That is exactly what we are doing,” Wike added.

FCTA, IHS Storm Gwagwalada With Free Gas Cylinders, Insurance to Save Residents From Killer Smoke

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

ABUJA — In a bold move to tackle indoor air pollution and its deadly health consequences, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), in partnership with IHS Towers Nigeria, on Wednesday rolled out free gas cylinders, burners and insurance cover to vulnerable residents of Gwagwalada Area Council under the Breathe Clean Air–Abuja initiative.

The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, who led the exercise, said the programme was designed to end the dangerous dependence on firewood, charcoal and kerosene, which she described as silent killers in many Nigerian homes.

According to her, smoke from dirty cooking fuels is responsible for widespread cases of cough, asthma, pneumonia, eye problems and other respiratory illnesses, particularly among women, children, the elderly and small-scale food vendors.

“Too many households still rely on firewood, charcoal and kerosene for cooking. These fuels pollute indoor air and pose serious health risks,” Fasawe said. “Our goal is to reduce indoor air pollution, protect lives and help vulnerable families switch safely to clean cooking.”

She explained that the project, being implemented across all six Area Councils of the FCT, goes beyond the distribution of gas cylinders, as beneficiaries are also enrolled in an insurance scheme covering fire outbreaks, explosions, user injury, third-party liability, theft and access to basic healthcare.

“This is not just about gas cylinders. Each beneficiary is protected with insurance to build confidence and remove fear associated with gas usage, while improving overall health and wellbeing,” she added.

To prevent beneficiaries from returning to harmful cooking methods, Dr. Fasawe disclosed that gas refill vouchers were also provided to support sustained use and long-term behaviour change.

She noted that the initiative prioritises women-led households, persons with disabilities, the elderly and other vulnerable groups, while helping families save time, reduce healthcare costs and improve safety at home.

The mandate secretary urged community leaders to ensure proper use of the cylinders, discourage resale and promptly report safety concerns to strengthen the programme’s impact.

“With collective effort, clean air, safer cooking and healthier living can become a reality for Gwagwalada and the entire FCT,” she said.

Also speaking, Chief Corporate Services Officer of IHS Nigeria, Mr. Dapo Otunla, described the initiative as a natural fit with the company’s sustainability agenda, stressing that it aligns with its commitment to people, environment and economic growth.

He said IHS Nigeria, a subsidiary of IHS Towers Group, operates over 16,000 telecom towers and more than 16,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables across the country, making it Nigeria’s largest communications infrastructure provider.

“This initiative is close to our heart. It promotes cleaner energy, reduces carbon emissions and supports the health of our host communities,” Otunla said.

He expressed satisfaction that the programme was reaching grassroots communities and improving the lives of the most vulnerable residents in the FCT.

“We hope the success of Abuja Breathe Clean Air will encourage nationwide adoption. We also call on other corporate organisations to join hands with us to ensure cleaner, healthier cities for Nigerians,” he added.

The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and beneficiaries, marking another major step in Abuja’s drive towards cleaner air and safer living.

Terrorism Allegations Rock Abuja as Ex-AGF Malami, Son Land in DSS Custody

By
Ola Akinola
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0

 

ABUJA — The immediate past Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and his son, Abdulazeez, were on Tuesday arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged terrorism-related offences and unlawful possession of firearms.

The duo were docked before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on a five-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), bordering on alleged abetting of terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

After taking their pleas, Malami and his son, who both pleaded not guilty to all the charges, were ordered to be remanded in the custody of the DSS pending the hearing and determination of their bail applications.

Counsel to the DSS, Calistus Eze, urged the court to fix a date for the commencement of trial. However, defence counsel, Shuaibu Arua, appealed to the court to exercise its discretion by allowing an oral application for bail, noting that the defendants had already spent about two weeks in custody and were brought to court from a hospital.

Justice Abdulmalik, in her ruling, held that the court is a court of record and directed the defendants to file formal bail applications in line with due process.

The trial judge subsequently adjourned the matter to February 20 for the commencement of trial.

According to the charges, Malami is accused of allegedly failing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers during his tenure as Attorney General, despite case files reportedly submitted to his office. Both defendants are also accused of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition at their residence in Kebbi State without valid licences, offences said to be contrary to the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Firearms Act, 2004.

The defendants are expected to return to court on the adjourned date as legal fireworks begin in what is shaping up to be a high-profile terrorism-related trial.

Wike Tours Abuja Projects, Promises August Delivery, Says FCT Wearing New Look

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of ongoing road and bridge projects across Abuja, assuring residents that several major projects will be completed and inaugurated by August.

Wike spoke during an inspection tour of key infrastructure projects in the Katampe–Giri axis and the Ossexx area of the nation’s capital, describing the level of work as impressive and in line with expectations.
“We are quite impressed with the quality of work being carried out. The contractors are doing very well, and by August, some of these projects will be ready for inauguration,” the minister said.

He disclosed that the Katampe road project in the Giri area is among those lined up for inauguration to mark President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second and third year in office, while the Ossexx bridges and connecting roads are expected to be delivered as part of activities marking the Federal Capital Territory’s anniversary.

According to Wike, the road networks under construction will ease movement and boost economic activities, particularly for informal sector operators and traders who rely heavily on access roads.

The minister commended construction firm, CGC, for maintaining high standards on the projects and assured that the FCT Administration would sustain strict monitoring of all contractors to ensure timely delivery.
He added that inspection tours would continue in other parts of Abuja, including areas where Chinese construction firm, CCCC, is handling major road projects.

Speaking on the Golden Jubilee of the FCT, Wike said Abuja has witnessed significant infrastructural growth in its 50 years of existence, noting that the transformation has become more visible in the last two and a half years.

“A lot has changed in terms of infrastructure. We are following the Abuja Master Plan, and the city’s landscape is changing for the better,” he said.

On the recent labour union agitation in the FCT, the minister said the issues had been resolved through dialogue, adding that normal activities had resumed.
“At the end of the day, there is no winner and no loser. It is all about ensuring that Abuja continues to move forward,” Wike said.

FCTA Declares War on Snakebite Deaths, Promises Antivenom , Rapid Emergency Response

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has vowed to tackle the growing menace of snakebite-related deaths, assuring residents of ready antivenom, faster emergency response, and stricter healthcare standards across the territory.

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja while expressing condolences to the family of Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who tragically died from neurotoxic complications caused by a snakebite.

Describing the death as “deeply painful and preventable,” Fasawe said snakebites remain a major public health threat that can be mitigated with awareness, proper first aid, and prompt medical intervention.

She warned that Nigeria is home to highly venomous snakes including cobras, vipers, and puff adders, urging FCT residents to adopt preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing on farms, avoiding tall grasses and dark areas at night, clearing debris around homes, sealing entry points, and never handling snakes.

Fasawe also outlined the correct first-aid measures for snakebite victims: stay calm, immobilise the affected limb below heart level, remove constrictive items, gently clean the wound, and rush to a hospital for antivenom. She cautioned against dangerous practices such as cutting or sucking the wound, applying tourniquets, ice, or herbal remedies.

On treatment and emergency care, Fasawe assured that polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms are readily available in all FCTA-owned hospitals and health facilities, centrally stored at Abuja Central Medical Stores, and managed to ensure quality and cold-chain integrity.

Prompt treatment is critical, she said, noting that antivenom is most effective when administered early, while late intervention after neurotoxic symptoms appear may not guarantee recovery.

To improve response time, the FCTA has expanded road networks and deployed 12 ambulances fully equipped for emergencies. Hospitals in the territory also provide comprehensive snakebite management including antivenom administration, patient monitoring, supportive care, intensive care, airway management, blood transfusions, and coagulation monitoring where needed.

Fasawe further warned that all public and private healthcare facilities must strictly follow approved clinical protocols, emphasizing that negligent facilities would face sanctions.

Residents are advised to contact the FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services via 090157892931 or 090157892932 during emergencies.

“The FCTA remains resolute in strengthening emergency systems, enforcing quality healthcare standards, and protecting the lives of all residents of the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.

Half of Nigerian Minors Drinking Alcohol – NAFDAC Survey

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Shock findings from a national survey show that more than half of Nigeria’s minors and underaged children buy and drink alcohol, raising fresh alarm over youth abuse of alcohol.

The survey, sponsored by the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN) and conducted with NAFDAC, covered six states across the country. Out of 1,788 respondents, 54.3% admitted buying alcohol themselves, often in sachets or small PET bottles. Friends, relatives, and social gatherings were other major sources.

While most minors and underaged children drink occasionally, some consume alcohol daily or weekly, highlighting a growing public health concern. Rivers, Lagos, and Kaduna topped the list for self-purchase in sachets and bottles.

NAFDAC DG Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye warned that banning small pack sizes could curb underage drinking. She urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to act fast to protect children.

“Consumption of alcohol by minors should raise alarm for everyone in the community,” she said.

The agency says the fight against underage drinking is far from over, calling for stricter regulation, awareness, and vigilance nationwide.

 

FCT workers to resume as Wike, labour resolve industrial dispute

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Abuja — Workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are to resume duties immediately following the resolution of the industrial dispute between the FCT Administration and organised labour.

This followed an overnight conciliatory meeting between the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).

The meeting, convened at the instance of the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT, Mohammed Bomoi, began at 11:45 p.m. on Monday and ended at 3:51 a.m. on Tuesday after extensive deliberations.

In a joint circular dated February 3, 2026, the labour unions said all issues raised by members of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) were exhaustively discussed and resolved.

Consequently, all JUAC members and affiliates of the NLC and TUC working in the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory (MFCT) have been directed to resume work immediately.

The unions also urged their affiliates to comply strictly with the directive in the interest of industrial peace and harmony, noting that the resolution was reached in good faith.

As part of the agreement, the FCT Minister assured organised labour of mutual respect and sustained engagement. Both parties further agreed that no worker would be victimised for participating in the industrial action, while all cases pending at the National Industrial Court (NIC) in relation to the dispute are to be withdrawn.

The circular was signed on behalf of JUAC and the workers by the Secretary General of the TUC, Comrade General N.A. Toro, PhD, mni, and the Acting General Secretary of the NLC, Comrade Benson Upah.

 

PDP Sets March 28–29 Convention, Ends Leadership Crisis

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

 

ABUJA — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has finally fixed March 28 and 29, 2026, for its National Convention in Abuja, a move widely seen as a major step towards ending the party’s prolonged leadership tussle.

The decision was reached on Monday during the 105th meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC), where party leaders reviewed the political climate, court rulings and preparations for internal elections.

At the meeting, NEC reaffirmed the Abdulrahman Muhammed-led National Caretaker Committee, with Senator Samuel Anyanwu as Secretary, insisting it remains the only legitimate national leadership of the party pending the convention.

The party also extended the tenure of the National Caretaker Working Committee, as well as state and zonal caretaker committees, to ensure stability until the conclusion of congresses and the national convention.

To pave the way for the convention, NEC approved a nationwide congress timetable, fixing ward and local government congresses for February, while state congresses will hold in March.

NEC directed the caretaker leadership to immediately release guidelines and modalities for the congresses in line with the PDP Constitution, INEC regulations and existing court judgments.

On the legal front, NEC welcomed the Federal High Court ruling in Ibadan, which ordered INEC to recognise the PDP’s National Caretaker Committee, describing the judgment as a victory for the rule of law.

The party leadership warned all members and organs to strictly obey court decisions, urging INEC and other institutions to comply fully with the ruling.

NEC also ratified all resolutions taken at the 104th emergency NEC meeting held in December 2025, declaring them binding on all party members.

With eyes firmly on a comeback, NEC mandated the caretaker committee to immediately activate convention sub-committees and commence full preparations to ensure a credible, transparent and hitch-free convention.

Calling for unity, NEC urged members to close ranks and avoid actions capable of further weakening the party, insisting the PDP remains strong and ready to reclaim its place in Nigeria’s political landscape.

The communiqué was jointly signed by Hon. Abdulrahman Muhammed, National Chairman of the National Caretaker Working Committee, and Senator Samuel Anyanwu, National Secretary.

I’m Interested in Everything Happening in Oyo PDP, Party Must Not Be Intimidated — Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

ABUJA — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has declared his strong interest in all activities of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, insisting that the party must remain firm and resist intimidation as it works to resolve its internal challenges.

Wike made the remarks on Tuesday during the 105th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the PDP, where he spoke extensively on the party’s legal battles, leadership structure and the need for grassroots mobilisation.

According to him, recent court decisions have effectively ended disputes over the party’s leadership, leaving opponents with no option but to recognise the PDP Caretaker Committee.

“Who will intimidate us? Some of us, by the grace of God, do not see what anyone can threaten us with. The legal battle has collapsed. They have no choice but to recognise the Caretaker Committee,” Wike said.

He noted that the next phase for the party would be the conduct of long-overdue congresses, which would eventually lead to the National Convention.

“We are waiting for the Caretaker Committee to give direction on the next steps, particularly to ensure that congresses that are already due are conducted. After that, we will proceed to the National Convention,” he stated.

Wike urged party members to return to the grassroots and stop treating the PDP as a charity organisation, stressing that electoral strength is built from the wards and polling units.

“Go to the wards, go to the polling units, go to the grassroots. This is not a charity organisation. Many people move from place to place without any political identity,” he said.

The former Rivers governor also dismissed claims that the party’s strength depends on the number of sitting governors it has, recalling that he emerged governor despite similar doubts in the past.

“Some people believe that if you do not have a sitting governor, then you are nothing. Who told them that? I was not a governor before I became governor. We told them we would become governors, and we did,” he added.

Describing the PDP as Nigeria’s strongest opposition party, Wike called on members to capitalise on its existing structure and experience.

“The PDP is too strong. We must capitalise on what we have and move forward,” he said.

While acknowledging peace appeals from the Board of Trustees and the National Working Committee, Wike warned that party leaders must remain vigilant against internal sabotage.

“People will be sent to destabilise you. Your adversary remains your adversary. They will not give up until they believe you are finished. But we will not be destroyed,” he warned.

He stressed that the party has experienced leaders capable of steering it through the process, including its Legal Adviser and National Organising Secretary.

“Experience matters. When we combine our collective experience, the results will speak for themselves,” Wike said.

Concluding his remarks, Wike reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s survival and success, stating: “I am interested in the survival and success of this party. I am also interested in everything happening in Oyo State PDP. That is very important to me.”

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