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WHO, TY Danjuma Foundation Seal $2.26m Deal to Boost Healthcare Access in Nigeria

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…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.

FCT Muslim Pilgrims Board Gears Up for Movement to Mina, Assures Seamless Transition for Major Hajj Rites

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…All Logistics Finalized Ahead of Arafat, Medical and Welfare Systems Fully Activated

As the 2024 Hajj approaches its spiritual pinnacle, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has finalized all necessary arrangements for the smooth movement of pilgrims from Makkah to Mina, in preparation for the core rites of Hajj.

In a strategic review meeting held in Makkah, the Board’s Director, Malam Kadiri Edah, led top officials in assessing the readiness of key logistical components, including transportation, accommodation, feeding, medical services, and the use of the Nusuk digital ID system.

“This next phase is the heart of the Hajj journey. Our entire team must remain alert and dedicated to delivering the best experience possible to our pilgrims,” Malam Edah emphasized during the session.

The Director noted that pilgrims from the FCT, who arrived from Madinah in earlier phases, have settled well and are in good health. He affirmed that the transition to Mina—often referred to as the “City of Tents”—will commence Tuesday, as scheduled in the official Hajj timetable.

Edah also disclosed that the FCT contingent has been allocated sufficient space in Mina, with all feeding and lodging logistics already in place. He highlighted that meticulous planning has gone into ensuring that pilgrims are physically and mentally prepared for the critical rites ahead, including the standing at Arafat—the spiritual climax of the pilgrimage set for Thursday.

“We’ve taken proactive steps to guarantee that every aspect of the journey is seamless. Pilgrims can focus entirely on their worship while we handle the rest,” Edah stated.

The Board emphasized its unwavering commitment to pilgrims’ welfare, assuring that medical teams, welfare officers, and support staff will be fully deployed throughout the transition and during the rituals.

Officials also encouraged pilgrims to maintain discipline, follow official guidelines, and remain spiritually focused as they proceed through the most significant days of Hajj.

With all systems now in motion and confidence high, the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board stands poised to deliver a safe, well-coordinated, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage experience.

“No One Can Sack Me from PDP” – Wike Fires Back at Critics

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***Defends Role in Tinubu’s Cabinet, Accuses PDP Leadership of Hypocrisy

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has fired back at critics within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring that no one in the party has the authority or moral standing to expel him.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a powerful PDP stakeholder, made the bold assertion on Monday during a live media chat in Abuja, amid growing calls for his expulsion over his role in the APC-led federal government.

“I am still a proud member of the PDP. I worked hard for this party. Let anyone who thinks they can sack me come forward. What have they contributed that is more than I have?” Wike challenged.

Defending his political choices, Wike referenced the 2023 general elections where he and the G5 governors openly opposed the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, citing the principle of equity and the need for power rotation.

“I told you in 2023 I wouldn’t support the PDP candidate. Why? Because it was about justice. You cannot have the presidential candidate and the party chairman from the same zone. We asked for balance. They refused. That’s not equity,” he said.

Wike lashed out at what he described as the hypocrisy and double standards of some PDP leaders, singling out Chief Olabode George, who backed the Labour Party during the polls.

“Olabode George supported the Labour Party, but I supported the APC candidate for fairness. We all agreed the presidency should go South. What offence did I commit?” he asked.

The FCT Minister also dismissed accusations of betrayal for serving in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, insisting that he followed due process and consulted widely within the party before accepting the ministerial role.

“I didn’t sneak into government. I wrote to the PDP zonal body, my state governor, and the national secretariat before accepting. Let them deny it if they can,” Wike declared.

He further accused current PDP governors of double-dealing, revealing that many of them had nominated individuals for appointments in the APC-led administration.

“When the federal government asked governors to submit names for board appointments, PDP governors all sent theirs. So why is it wrong for me to serve as Minister?” he queried.

Reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, Wike emphasized that he remains firmly rooted in the party and will not be intimidated into silence by those he believes are pursuing selfish agendas.

“No one can sack me. I know my worth. I know what I’ve done for this party. I will keep speaking the truth,” he stated.

Wike’s comments have once again stirred debate within the PDP as the party grapples with internal tensions and conflicting loyalties in the build-up to the 2027 elections.

Unapologetic and combative, Wike continues to wield significant influence—both within his party and in the federal government—positioning himself as a central player in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

Wike Declares War on Ground Rent Defaulters: “I Derive Joy in Stepping on Big Toes”

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to individuals and institutions defaulting on ground rent payments, vowing to enforce full compliance regardless of status or influence.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja on Monday, the no-nonsense minister made it clear that high-ranking elites would not be shielded from the law.

> “I derive joy in stepping on the toes of big people,” Wike said defiantly. “They must obey the rules like everyone else.”

He criticized what he described as a hypocritical culture among Nigeria’s elite — individuals who admire structure and discipline abroad but return home only to disregard simple civic obligations.

“They travel abroad and see how those societies work. But when they return, they refuse to follow basic rules. That will no longer be tolerated,” he stated.

Wike signaled the end of an era in which powerful individuals routinely evaded their statutory responsibilities, particularly concerning land administration.

“This time, something will happen,” he warned, hinting at imminent enforcement measures against defaulters.

The Minister’s remarks come amid a broader reform drive aimed at improving revenue generation and restoring order to Abuja’s land management system. At the heart of this effort is the enforcement of ground rent — a legal obligation for all holders of statutory land titles within the FCT.

Wike’s tough stance is in line with his administration’s emphasis on accountability, transparency, and a functional capital territory where laws are not only made but enforced.

This Impunity Will Not Stand: Wike Breaks Silence on PDP Crisis, Denies Rift with Fubara

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has broken his silence on the deepening crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), denouncing what he described as a culture of impunity and injustice undermining the party’s unity and stability.

Speaking during a live media chat in Abuja on Monday, Wike declared that the ongoing power tussles in the PDP would no longer be tolerated, and dismissed speculations of a personal feud with his successor, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

“I’ve made it clear — this impunity, this injustice, will not stand,” Wike said pointedly. “I don’t have any crisis with Governor Fubara. None whatsoever.”

The former Rivers State governor accused certain political actors, whom he labeled as “undertakers,” of deliberately orchestrating turmoil within the party to advance narrow interests.

> “What is happening in the PDP is the handiwork of people I can only describe as undertakers,” he said. “They thrive in chaos and have positioned themselves to benefit from disorder. I can’t understand why anyone would willingly plunge a party into crisis.”

Responding to allegations that he was interfering in Rivers State affairs or trying to destabilize the government, Wike said he had no such intentions. He suggested instead that Governor Fubara had become a tool for those unable to challenge him directly.

> “I don’t want a crisis,” he stated. “But the governor, unknown to me, handed himself over to those who couldn’t face me. They saw him as a willing pawn.”

In an emotionally charged moment, Wike likened the betrayal to a father being attacked by his own child.

> “You raise a child, feed him, send him to school, and one night, he returns home only to shoot you. Just imagine how that feels,” he said.

Wike also addressed rumours of a possible state of emergency being declared in Rivers State. He denied advocating for such measures and clarified that the decision was entirely within the president’s authority.

> “I am not the president. I never supported a state of emergency,” Wike affirmed. “But I understand why it came up — the government was on the verge of impeachment. Still, President Tinubu, in his wisdom, handled the situation differently.”

The FCT Minister also took aim at “television politicians,” accusing them of prioritizing media appearances over meaningful service to the people.

“These TV politicians make me feel bad,” he said. “They talk endlessly on television as if they understand governance, yet they are disconnected from the realities of the people they claim to represent.”

Wike’s remarks come amid growing factional tensions within the PDP and rising concerns over political stability in Rivers State. While the presidency has yet to comment officially on the latest developments, the Minister’s statements are likely to intensify debate within the party and beyond.

Wike Blasts PDP Leadership Crisis, Defends Legitimacy of National Secretary’s Election

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized what he described as unconstitutional maneuvers within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly efforts to remove the party’s National Secretary. He insisted that the Secretary was duly elected at the party’s National Convention and cannot be dismissed arbitrarily.

Speaking during a live media chat with journalists in Abuja on Monday, Wike expressed frustration over the deepening leadership crisis in the PDP, accusing certain stakeholders of bypassing the party’s constitution to pursue personal political agendas.

“Now you’re saying the National Secretary should no longer be Secretary who said that?” Wike queried. “He was elected by the National Convention, not appointed. You cannot just remove him by fiat.”

The former Rivers State governor said the dispute stemmed from a contested judgment of the Court of Appeal, which the Supreme Court ultimately overturned. According to him, the apex court recognized that the matter involved fundamental issues affecting the entire party and could not be determined in isolation.

“There were three judgments — two to one. But the Supreme Court rightly said this issue concerns the entire party and set aside the appellate decision,” he explained.

Wike also addressed claims that the position of National Secretary was zoned to the South East, dismissing them as misleading.

“It was never zoned to the South East. It was zoned to the South. And for the sake of unity and fairness, the South agreed among themselves on who should occupy the seat,” he said.

He condemned what he described as attempts to rewrite the party’s history and circumvent its established processes.

“Some people now want to claim powers they don’t have calling meetings, issuing notices. But who issued the NEC meeting notice? Only the Secretary is authorized. He didn’t issue one. That meeting was illegal,” Wike stated.

The Minister said it was “funny” that those appointed to office now claim the authority to preside over elected officials, warning that such moves erode internal democracy and violate the PDP’s constitution.

“How can an appointee preside over those elected by delegates across the country? Where is that done? It’s a total breach of our constitution,” he said.

He recalled how the removal of former National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu triggered similar constitutional debates, noting that the party’s succession rules were clear.

“When Ayu left, the constitution said someone from the same region should act not by appointment, but by an election. Leaders from the North Central rightly objected to attempts to bypass that process,” Wike said.

Referencing past efforts to broker peace, Wike noted that the Saraki-led Reconciliation Committee had worked to unify warring factions, but some party members had refused to cooperate.

“The committee, chaired by Dr. Bukola Saraki, reached out in good faith. But some people rejected peace. What does that tell you?” he asked.

Wike’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions within the PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party, which continues to grapple with internal divisions. His defense of the National Secretary’s legitimacy adds another layer to the unfolding power struggle.

“The Secretary is not sick. He is not dead. He is still serving. So why are some people so desperate to remove him?” Wike asked.

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Exit from Treasury Single Account Has Unlocked Funding, Boosted Transparency in FCT Projects – Wike

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has said that the exit of the FCT Administration from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) has significantly improved access to funding for infrastructure while enhancing transparency and accountability in public financial management.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja on Monday, Wike explained that the move has enabled the FCT to source funds directly from commercial banks, accelerating the pace of development and allowing for more flexible financial operations.

“The exit from the Treasury Single Account has enabled the administration to do a lot,” he said. “There is great accountability and transparency in the way funds are managed now.”

The TSA policy, introduced to consolidate government revenues into a single account at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), had previously limited the ability of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to access funds directly for urgent projects. Wike, however, argued that the FCT’s case is unique.

“Under the TSA, all funds go to the Central Bank. But the FCT does not generate revenue for the federal government. So why should we be restricted?” he asked.

According to the Minister, the new funding model allows the FCT Administration to secure loans from commercial banks based on its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and repayment capacity, enabling it to implement capital projects without delay.

“If we need N100 billion for a critical project, we can secure a loan, tie it to our IGR, and start immediately,” he explained. “Previously, monthly allocations were not enough to even initiate major projects.”

While acknowledging the need for fiscal discipline under this model, Wike said it is far more effective and geared toward tangible results.

“The FCT is now run like a business. The President wants results, and we can’t continue waiting for monthly releases that barely cover salaries,” he stated.

Wike also noted that although the FCT’s annual budget is about N80 billion, the federal government often struggles to release sufficient funds, even for recurrent expenditure. The new arrangement, he said, allows the Administration to work around those limitations.

“We can’t borrow from the CBN, but commercial banks see our IGR and are willing to partner with us,” he said.

On concerns about transparency, Wike assured that all funds are linked to specific projects and subject to regular oversight.

“Every kobo is traceable. Each project is tied to a loan and monitored. There are enough mechanisms in place to ensure accountability,” he said.

He praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting reforms that give the FCT greater financial autonomy, describing the shift as essential for positioning Abuja among the world’s leading capital cities.

“This is about unlocking the city’s potential and improving the lives of its residents. It’s a deliberate policy by a President who understands development,” he said.

The Minister’s remarks come as the FCT intensifies its road construction, urban renewal, and upgrades in health and education infrastructure. With enhanced financial freedom, Wike said residents should expect to see more impactful results.

“We’re not just spending we’re building. And this model puts the FCT on a path to becoming a benchmark for other regions,” he added.

AFNIS 4th Edition Beckons with A Big Bang!

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_By Segun Tomori_

The fourth edition of the African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) promises to be bigger and better than the previous three editions. Formerly called the NigeriaAfrica Natural Resource & Energy Investment Summit (NAFNIS) in its inaugural year, AFNIS is Africa’s premier convening platform dedicated to transforming the continent’s vast natural resource and energy wealth into inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

This year’s summit Themed “Harnessing Local Content for Sustainable Development”, brings together professionals in mining, energy, agriculture and finance alongside policy makers in these sectors, across the continent, to develop bold solutions that will chart a pathway for sustainable growth through local innovation and collaboration. The conference aims to promote the development and financing of green energy projects, facilitate trade and knowledge sharing, develop supportive policies for the natural resources sector whilst highlighting investment opportunities across the continent.

Leading the pack of speakers is the host, the erudite Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake. The minister renowned across the continent as the advocate of local value addition will be throwing more light on reforms and efforts of the Tinubu administration to not only make Nigeria a viable investment destination but also make the mining sector lead Nigeria’s industrial renaissance. As the Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) – an advocacy group of African Ministers of Mining and Mineral Resources, Alake adorns a double hat, bringing on board his far-reaching continental influence to ensure the summit achieve its objectives and doesn’t end up as a mere talk show

Another public servant expected to grace AFNIS 2025 is the Kenyan secretary of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hon. Hassan Ali Joho, while Liberia’s former Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Jeanine Cooper, a longtime advocate for rural transformation that championed food security, climate resilience and inclusive economic growth during her tenure as minister will give the summit a boost with her vast insight and systems-thinking approach to resource management. Our very own Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, is also expected to deliver an address. From the private sector will be the CEO of Nigeria’s prime gold mining firm, Segun lawson, and a host of others.

The 4-day event holding from 14th to 17th July 2025 will feature a high-powered delegation from the Indian Business Council. This provides an opportunity for Nigeria to concretize partnerships that landed in multi-billion-dollar investment deals on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi 2023, whilst also opening new vistas for expanded collaboration with Nigeria’s business community.

Featuring prominently in AFNIS 2025 is ASBA Group of companies, a dynamic Nigerian conglomerate with deep investments in mining, real estate, and industrial development. ASBA group’s partnership with AFNIS affirms their commitment to driving Africa’s sustainable growth through local content and value-chain integration. A key highlight of this partnership will be the commissioning of ASBA’s lithium processing plant during the summit. The facility in itself is a testament to the efficacy of Dr. Alake’s local value addition policy as the potential of the new plant to unlock jobs, herald technology transfer, and propel downstream industrialization is simply limitless.

You cannot be a mining industry player of repute or an energy or finance expert worth his onions on the continent if you’ve not registered to attend AFNIS 2025 taking place at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. Time is ticking. Hurry now to register at
www.Afnisummit.com/register. This might just be an opportunity to seal that life-changing deal or take your business to the next level. Don’t miss it!

_*Segun Tomori* , FSCA is the Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development._

Wike Unveils Transport Reforms in Abuja, Launches Painted Taxi Policy to Boost Security

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…Says Terminals Will Curb Chaos, Restore Order in the FCT

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has rolled out a series of bold reforms aimed at reorganizing Abuja’s transport system — starting with the introduction of a painted taxi policy and the development of integrated bus and taxi terminals.

Wike, who spoke during an inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects on Friday, said the reforms are designed to enhance public safety, restore sanity to the city’s roads, and align Nigeria’s capital with global urban transport standards.

“Obviously, a lot of things will happen in the transport sector,” the Minister stated. “There will be a lot of reforms. A committee is already working, and before commissioning, we’ll unveil a new framework for the sector.”

A key part of the plan is a colour-coded taxi scheme to clearly differentiate licensed commercial taxis from private vehicles — a move Wike said is central to the FCT’s security strategy.

> “As part of our security measures, we must know those involved in the taxi business and the specific colour they operate. That way, if anything happens, it becomes easier to track and identify,” Wike explained.

The initiative will be complemented by newly constructed multi-modal transport terminals in strategic locations like Kugbo and Mabushi. According to the Minister, these facilities are designed to integrate both bus and taxi operations, eliminating the chaotic roadside parks that have long plagued the city.

> “I told the contractor — this is not just a bus terminal; it must also serve taxis. Commuters should be able to come to a clean, organized terminal and board either a bus or taxi in safety,” he said.

During the inspection, Wike expressed satisfaction with the quality of work at the Kugbo Terminal and praised the indigenous contractor handling the project.

> “I’m very happy with what I’ve seen,” Wike noted. “Some people may ask, ‘Why are they building motor parks?’ But when you travel abroad, you see how things are done. We deserve the same in our capital city.”

> “This isn’t just a motor park. It’s infrastructure that drives urban renewal, enhances security, creates jobs, and restores dignity to the city,” he added.

The Minister also acknowledged earlier design flaws in the project, noting that corrections have since been made.

> “The first time we came here, I was dismayed. But you can’t compare then and now. By the time we return for commissioning, it will be something completely different,” he assured.

The reforms are part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure development, security, and urban modernization as pillars for national growth.

Policy analysts have described the initiative as a potential game-changer for Abuja’s public transportation network, which has for years struggled with inefficiency, insecurity, and a lack of coordination.

Wike assured that his administration is working with relevant agencies to ensure proper implementation, enforcement, and sustainability of the new system.

> “We are doing everything possible to make Abuja a model city, not just for Nigeria, but for Africa. The transport sector is a vital component of that vision,” he said.

With the Kugbo terminal nearing completion and others underway, full operation of the new transport scheme is expected to begin in the coming weeks — ushering in a new era for daily commuting in the FCT.

Tinubu Shows Leadership with Wike’s Appointment — Ortom

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***Hails Monumental Transformation in FCT

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated statesmanship and visionary leadership by appointing Barr. Nyesom Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), an action described as merit-based and above party politics by former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom.

During a project inspection tour of the FCT with Wike on Friday, Ortom commended President Tinubu for choosing performance over party loyalty, stating that Wike’s appointment has led to unprecedented infrastructural development in Abuja.

“Mr. President has shown true leadership. His decision to appoint my friend and colleague, Nyesom Wike, was not based on politics but on capacity,” Ortom said. “This is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs — one that looks beyond party lines and focuses on merit and delivery.”

The former governor, who also served as a minister and PDP National Auditor, said in all his decades of public service, he has never seen such transformation in the Federal Capital as is currently taking place under Wike’s leadership.

“I’ve been in Abuja for years, but the transformation in the last one year is overwhelming. I now need a guide to move around the city. This is monumental development,” Ortom said, visibly impressed after visiting several completed and ongoing projects.

Among the projects inspected were:

Modern Bus Terminals at Mabushi and Kukwaba — state-of-the-art facilities comparable to international standards;

Judges’ Quarters — an ultra-modern housing complex nearing completion to support the judiciary;

Reconstruction of rural and urban roads, including those in Gishiri and Nicon Junction;

City illumination and beautification projects, as well as upgrading of public schools and hospitals.

“What we are seeing here today is what we see in advanced countries — clean, organized, and functional infrastructure. For decades, we’ve hoped to see this in Nigeria. Now, it’s happening in Abuja,” Ortom declared.

He praised Wike for not disappointing those who believed in his ability, adding that the FCT Minister is delivering results that should make every Nigerian proud.

“Wike has not betrayed Mr. President, and he has not disappointed us, his friends. He is making Nigerians proud,” he added.

Ortom used the opportunity to call for national unity and collective support for the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that the country’s challenges — economic, security, and social — can only be solved through collaboration.

“Mr. President alone cannot fix Nigeria. We need to join hands with him, irrespective of party affiliations. Let us put politics aside and support what is good,” he said.

He also advised against early politicking for 2027, urging Nigerians to focus on governance and solutions.

“Political parties are just alphabets. What matters is delivery. We must not distract the President. Let him work with people like Wike who have the capacity to deliver. That’s what Nigeria needs right now,” Ortom emphasized.