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Tinubu Shows Leadership with Wike’s Appointment — Ortom

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***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.

FCT Pilgrims Applaud Welfare Board for Exceptional Accommodation, Feeding in Makkah

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Intending pilgrims from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commended the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for what they described as top-notch welfare arrangements since arriving in Makkah, Saudi Arabia — especially in terms of accommodation and feeding.

Several pilgrims who spoke with our correspondent expressed joy over the proximity of their hotels to the Grand Mosque (Haram), noting that the short walking distance has eased their ability to observe daily prayers and other spiritual activities without the hassle of transportation.

“One of my biggest fears was the distance to the Haram. I thought I’d be spending a lot on transport or walking long hours every day. But to my surprise and delight, my hotel is just a few minutes’ walk away. I sincerely thank the Board for making this happen,” said Hafsat, a female pilgrim from Abuja.

Feeding arrangements have also drawn praise from the pilgrims, with the Board consistently providing two nutritious meals daily — breakfast and dinner — since their arrival. Many noted that this support has allowed them to focus on worship and spiritual preparation without worrying about meal expenses.

“This thoughtful provision by the Board has really made things easier. I don’t have to worry about what to eat, which means I can concentrate fully on my prayers and prepare for the Hajj without distractions,” said Abubakar, another pilgrim.

Accommodation and feeding are often the most financially demanding aspects of Hajj, particularly for those who arrive early ahead of the official rites. But with these essentials already covered, many FCT pilgrims say they feel relaxed, supported, and spiritually focused.

The FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has reiterated its commitment to the welfare of all pilgrims under its care. The Board also assured that issues around the physical issuance of Nusuk Cards — required for access to the Haram and other holy sites — are being addressed promptly to ensure that all pilgrims are fully prepared.

The 2025 Hajj is expected to begin on June 4 and conclude on June 9, corresponding with the 8th to 13th of Dhul Hijjah, 1446 AH. As pilgrims anticipate the commencement of the Hajj rites, the positive feedback from FCT pilgrims underscores the critical role of effective planning and welfare in enhancing the overall Hajj experience.

Wike berates National Assembly Committees for Silence on FCT Teachers’ Strike

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has lashed out at the National Assembly’s Area Council Committees for their silence over the lingering strike by primary school teachers in the territory, accusing them of abandoning their oversight responsibilities.

Speaking on Wednesday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects across Abuja, Wike expressed deep frustration that lawmakers have failed to summon elected area council chairmen or intervene meaningfully, despite the prolonged closure of public primary schools in the FCT.

> “The chairmen of the House and Senate Committees on Area Councils should be asking why children are still at home,” Wike said. “But instead, they’re busy with irrelevant matters, summoning ministers to defend budgets outside their jurisdiction.”

He criticized what he described as misplaced priorities by the legislators and warned against politicizing the FCT’s administrative affairs.

> “We expected the committees to have called the area council chairmen and asked, ‘What’s going on? How do we resolve this?’ But their focus seems to be on creating division within the FCT. That strategy will not succeed,” he declared.

Wike underscored the gravity of the situation, describing the ongoing teachers’ strike as a direct threat to the region’s democratic and developmental goals.

> “Denying children education is like staging a coup in the FCT. It’s a major sabotage of democracy,” he warned.

The Minister assured residents that the FCT Administration is actively working to resolve the crisis and return teachers to the classroom.

> “No responsible government is comfortable watching its teachers sit at home. Behind the scenes, we are making efforts, and very soon, we believe this matter will be settled,” Wike said.

Public primary school teachers in the FCT have been on strike for several weeks over unmet demands, including improved welfare and working conditions. The strike has crippled learning for thousands of pupils across the six area councils.

Tinubu’s Two-Year Triumph: Abuja Emerges as Flagship of Renewed Hope Agenda — Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu clocks two years in office, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has emerged as a flagship of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with key infrastructure projects nearing completion and transforming the city’s outlook.

Speaking during an extensive project inspection tour on Thursday, FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, hailed the President’s resolve to complete inherited projects and initiate new ones, describing Abuja as a “major reference point” for the administration’s progress.

> “The CGC has completed 100 percent of the road from OSEX II to Wassa. The Kubwa interchange is nearly done, and Daki-Biyu is on track. These are among the projects Mr. President will inaugurate to mark his second-year anniversary,” Wike stated while addressing journalists at one of the sites.

The inspection covered key infrastructure projects in Wassa, the interchange at Kubwa expressway (N20), and Daki-Biyu, all of which are scheduled for commissioning during the President’s anniversary celebrations.

Despite not being a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Wike offered glowing praise for the President’s commitment to Abuja’s transformation.

> “Abuja is now working. And who has made it work? It is Mr. President. Even if you don’t like someone, if they’re doing well, you must tell the truth. Mr. President has done very, very well — unprecedented,” Wike emphasized.

He described the Renewed Hope Agenda as a living reality, no longer just a political slogan.

> “Nigerians can see it now. We’re proud to be part of this history-making administration,” he added.

During the minister’s visit to several sites, excited residents were heard chanting “4 plus 4,” a call for President Tinubu to seek re-election in 2027. Responding to the chant, Wike said:

> “I’m not a student of that chant. But they are expressing their right as citizens. What matters is that we are grateful to be part of this transformation.”

As the FCT continues to evolve into a model capital city, Wike’s remarks underscore the administration’s renewed focus on infrastructure delivery as a key pillar of national development.

BREAKING: Wike Declares Zero Tolerance for Ground Rent Evasion

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Says FCT Administration Won’t Yield to Blackmail, “No One Is Above the Law”

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has vowed that the FCT Administration will not bow to pressure, intimidation, or blackmail in its renewed drive to enforce payment of ground rent and other statutory taxes across the capital.

Speaking on Wednesday during an inspection tour of completed and ongoing projects in Abuja—part of preparations to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office—Wike said elite property owners must comply with tax obligations or face consequences.

“Let nobody think that blackmail or whatever will stop us. We will do what we are supposed to do. This is about leadership. We will not give in to blackmail; we will do the right thing,” he stated emphatically.

The Minister expressed concern over the growing trend of tax evasion among wealthy individuals, many of whom own properties abroad yet willingly fulfill their tax duties in those countries while flouting the law at home.

“It’s unfortunate. The same elites who own homes overseas know the implications of not paying taxes there—their houses would be seized. But here, everyone wants to circumvent the law,” he said.

Wike disclosed that he has signed over 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) and property assignments in recent months. However, many beneficiaries have failed to remit the required ground rent and associated taxes.

“You collect a C-of-O and then you don’t want to pay your taxes? That it didn’t happen yesterday doesn’t mean it won’t happen today or tomorrow,” he warned.

He reminded residents that the two-week compliance window approved by President Tinubu for defaulting property owners remains in effect but will not be extended indefinitely.

The Minister reiterated that the administration’s development agenda—including roads, street lighting, water infrastructure, and public services—depends heavily on internally generated revenue.

“People want roads, lights, water, but no one is asking where the money is coming from. Abuja doesn’t have oil wells. We rely on taxes. And let me be clear: we have not increased ground rent yet. But we will,” he said.

Wike reaffirmed his commitment to equity and rule of law in tax enforcement, insisting that no one, regardless of status, would be spared.

Wike Refutes Suicide Bomber Claims in Abuja Explosion

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports suggesting that a recent explosion in Abuja was the result of a suicide bombing, describing such claims as deliberate misinformation aimed at instilling fear among residents and undermining government reforms.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects, Wike clarified that security agencies had found no evidence linking the incident to terrorism.

“No security agency has confirmed that it was a suicide bomber,” he said. “People must stop creating unnecessary fear in the minds of residents. What happened was that someone took an explosive—typically used for quarry blasting—and put it in his pocket. It exploded. That is not terrorism.”

He warned individuals and groups against using misinformation as a tool to blackmail the FCT Administration, emphasizing that such tactics would not derail the government’s ongoing developmental efforts.

“The FCT Administration is doing everything possible to ensure the security of lives and property,” Wike said, calling for public cooperation and more responsible reporting from the media.

The Minister also used the occasion to highlight key projects nearing completion, including the N5 Road in Life Camp, the Guzape Interchange, and the renovated International Conference Centre.

He commended the contractors for adhering to project timelines and delivering high standards, noting that the visible progress is a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure renewal.

“This is the development the President promised—real change through quality road infrastructure and we are delivering,” Wike said.

Children’s Day 2025: Hon. Blessing Onuh Demands Harsher Punishment for Child Abusers

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

***Vows Bigger Otukpo Carnival , Stronger Girl-Child Support

As Nigeria celebrates the 2025 Universal Children’s Day, the lawmaker representing Otukpo-Ohimini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Honourable Blessing Onuh, has called for stricter penalties against crimes targeting minors, especially sexual abuse. She also renewed her commitment to child education, girl-child empowerment, and the annual Otukpo Children Carnival.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, Hon. Onuh emphasized that Nigerian children are a national treasure deserving of love, care, and robust protection.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Little Footsteps, Big Future,” she described it as both timely and motivational. “As a mother and aspiring grandmother, I delightfully celebrate children across the nation today. They are the future of our society, and we must do all we can to guide them to greatness,” she said.

The former Secretary for Social Development at the FCT Administration decried the rising cases of child abuse and rape, insisting that offenders must face the full weight of the law. “Anyone who assaults a minor should be dealt with decisively. The future of this country must be protected,” she stated.

Hon. Onuh called on all tiers of government to prioritize education, particularly for the girl child. “Gone are the days when girls were confined to domestic duties or early marriage. Women who were once girls are now breaking barriers globally,” she said.

She announced plans to make the 18th edition of her flagship initiative, the Otukpo Children Carnival, even bigger and more impactful. “Last year’s edition was grand, and by God’s grace, this year’s will be even more memorable for our children,” she said.

The two-term federal lawmaker commended the National Assembly for supporting legislation that protects children and praised the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, for her passionate drive in advancing child welfare in Nigeria.

Encouraging children nationwide, Hon. Onuh urged them to stay focused on their dreams, study hard, and remain hopeful for a brighter future.

BREAKING: Tinubu Halts Revocation of 4,794 FCT Properties Over Ground Rent Defaults

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Grants 14-Day Grace to Settle Debts, Penalties Pegged by Location
Property Owners Get 41 Days to Register Titles, Obtain Minister’s Consent

By TOYIN ADEBAYO, Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has intervened in the planned revocation of 4,794 properties in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), offering a 14-day grace period for owners to clear long-standing ground rent arrears and avoid permanent loss of their properties.

The revoked titles, some of which have unpaid dues ranging from 10 to 43 years, span properties owned by government agencies, corporate entities, and private individuals. The move initially announced by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) was part of a sweeping enforcement effort aimed at restoring fiscal discipline and compliance in land administration.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, the Director of Lands, Mr. Chijioke Nwankwoeze, said the President’s timely intervention was intended to offer a final window of relief to affected property owners.

> “By Mr. President’s intervention, holders of the affected properties now have 14 days, that is, two weeks, to settle all outstanding ground rents with the associated penalties,” he stated.

Penalties Based on Property Location

According to the Lands Department, the penalties for defaulters vary by location:

Central Area – N5 million plus the full arrears

Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II, Guzape – N3 million plus arrears

Wuse I, Garki I, Garki II – N2 million plus arrears

In addition to settling outstanding rent, all new property owners who have not obtained the mandatory Minister’s Consent or registered their Deeds of Assignment now have a 41-day deadline to comply. The directive is part of an intensified effort to formalize property ownership and update the FCTA’s land records.

14-Day Grace for Rights of Occupancy Bills

In a parallel move, the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has approved a 14-day grace period for all property owners in the territory to pay up outstanding Rights of Occupancy bills or risk revocation.

Mr. Nwankwoeze explained:

> “The Minister has advised property owners in the FCT to ensure that they pay all necessary bills and charges on their properties as and when due, to enable the government to continue executing developmental projects for the benefit of residents.”

The revocation and penalty framework is part of broader reforms aimed at sanitizing land administration, boosting internally generated revenue, and ensuring accountability in the use of Abuja’s valuable urban space.

FCTA Seals Access Bank, FIRS, Ibro Hotel, Total Energy Buildings Over Decades-Old Ground Rent Debts

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

In a sweeping enforcement operation on Monday, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) sealed the premises of Access Bank, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Ibro Hotel, and Total Energy in Abuja over decades of unpaid ground rent.

The clampdown marks the commencement of the FCTA’s aggressive drive to recover over 4,700 properties recently revoked for non-compliance with land-use obligations, particularly long-standing ground rent arrears.

The exercise kicked off in Wuse District, led by the Director of Development Control, Tpl. Mukhtar Galadima, alongside officials from the Department of Land Administration. The action followed a public notice by the FCTA vowing to repossess all revoked properties.

At the sealing of Plot 534, Cadastral Zone A02, Wuse Zone 1—occupied by Total Energy—Galadima stated: “Today is about walking the talk. We made our intentions public, and this is the implementation. This property has over 10 years of unpaid ground rent, leading to its revocation in March 2025.”

Another property sealed was the Access Bank branch on Plot 2456, Wuse 1, Cadastral Zone A02. While the bank occupies the premises, the property is owned by Rana Taher Furniture Nigeria Limited and has a 34-year debt backlog.

Galadima confirmed that similar enforcement would extend to the Central Area and other districts in the coming days. “Any allottee who fails to settle outstanding liabilities risks losing their title. The warning is clear,” he said.

Director of Land Administration, Mr. Chijioke Nwankwoeze, reinforced the legal basis of the action. “This building is occupied by Access Bank, but the registered owner is a private firm. With 34 years of unpaid rent, the title has legally reverted to the government,” he explained.

He also disclosed that the FIRS building in Wuse Zone 5 was sealed for failing to pay ground rent for 25 years. “This is just the beginning. We’re targeting over 4,794 properties affected by revocation,” he said.

According to Nwankwoeze, once a title is revoked, all occupants—regardless of current use—must vacate or resolve their legal standing with the FCTA.

Under the leadership of FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike, the administration has prioritized land administration reforms and aggressive revenue generation from ground rent collections.

The FCTA has urged residents, businesses, and institutions to verify their land title status and settle outstanding obligations to avoid similar disruptions.

More details to follow.

Breaking: FCTA Seals PDP National Secretariat Over 25-Year Ground Rent Debt

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Monday sealed Wadata Plaza, the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), over non-payment of ground rent spanning more than 25 years.

The enforcement is part of an ongoing FCTA drive to recover over N6 billion owed in ground rent from over 4,700 properties across the capital city.

Wadata Plaza, though currently occupied by the PDP, is owned by Senator Sama’ila Mamman Kofi. The property was among those officially revoked in March 2025 for prolonged default.

Speaking during the enforcement, Director of Land Administration, Mr. Chijioke Nwankwoeze, said due process was strictly followed. “We don’t deal with tenants. The property owner was duly served the revocation notice on March 14, which was also pasted on the premises. We are here to take physical possession,” he said.

Nwankwoeze further clarified that legal responsibility lies solely with the registered property owner. “For instance, FIRS is occupying a building owned by Fortunate Trades Limited. Until they register ownership, we can’t recognise them as the legal owner,” he said.

Amid speculation over political undertones, Special Senior Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Mr. Lere Olayinka, dismissed such claims.

“This is not about politics. It’s a city-wide enforcement involving banks, hotels, filling stations, and other commercial properties. PDP just happens to be one of the occupants,” Olayinka stated.

He emphasized the administration’s commitment to transparency and fairness. “We maintain comprehensive records. Some of these debts date back 28 years. If anyone claims to have paid, let them provide official receipts issued by the Lands Department. Without documentation, such claims cannot be verified,” he added.

A PDP administrative officer, Mr. Kabiru Magaji, appealed for leniency during the operation. “This is a democratic era. We plead that vehicles and sensitive belongings be allowed to be moved out peacefully. Civility must guide this process,” he urged.

On whether sealed properties could be reclaimed, Olayinka noted the decision rests solely with the FCT Minister. “As of today, the properties legally belong to the FCTA. Any appeal must be directed to the Minister, who has the authority to review and make a decision,” he said.

The FCTA said the operation will continue throughout the week, targeting more defaulters in its bid to enforce compliance and boost internally generated revenue.

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