News Agency of Nigeria
Tinubu’s administration working hard to make life better for FCT residents
Metro

Tinubu’s administration working hard to make life better for FCT residents

By Angela Atabo
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says President Bola Tinubu’s administration is working hard to make life better for FCT residents and Nigerians in general.
Wike made the remarks while inaugurating the rehabilitation of Old Keffi Road, from Kado Village to Dei Dei, Abuja on Tuesday.
He explained that the rehabilitation of the road was in fulfilment of the President’s promise to the traders and residents of the area as the road was important to them.
“By the time this road is completed, you will see the transformation it will bring.
“Tinubu is working hard to change things for the better both for Nigerians and residents of Abuja.
“We have inaugurated a number of projects that are ongoing and in the coming days, we will inaugurate more projects.
“In total, we have 27 projects lined up for inauguration and this is something that had never happened before in Abuja. This is the first time, and it’s happening under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“I, therefore, urge you to continue to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu, a government that makes promises and fulfills them,” he said.
The minister urged the residents of the area to rally behind Tinubu and the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, Mr Christopher Maikalangu for responding to their needs.
He stressed the need for electorates to choose people who know their needs and commit to pursuing them.
According to him, a good representative doesn’t talk about themselves but about the needs of their people.
“I have always maintained that when you have a true representative who understands the needs of the people, such a leader ensures those needs are addressed.”
He commended Maikalangu for being a true representative of his people, saying “he deserves your continued support for the sake of continuity.
“He is a leader who will always remind us of your needs and ensure that promises are kept.”
On her part, FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, applauded Tinubu for his continuous support to infrastructure renewal and for prioritising projects that touch the lives of ordinary citizens.
Mahmoud described the project as a “testimony of Tinubu’s vision of delivering roads that promote connectivity, accessibility, and economic growth in the FCT.
“This road is a lifeline that serves thousands of commuters daily, linking communities, reducing travel time, improving road safety, and stimulating socio-economic activities across the axis,” she said. (NAN)
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab
RHI, foundation unveil N25m recapitilisation grant for 500 women in FCT
Gender

RHI, foundation unveil N25m recapitilisation grant for 500 women in FCT

By Angela Atabo

The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, with support from the Tony Elumelu Foundation has unveiled a N25 million Recapitilisation Grant for 500 women in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The RHI Coordinator in FCT, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, said at the event in Abuja on Monday, that the grant would be disbursed under the RHI/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme.

Benjamins-Laniyi, who is also the pioneer Mandate Secretary, FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, said that 500 women would benefit from the grant in the FCT.

She commended Tony Elumelu Foundation for generously donating  one billion Naira to the initiative.

According to her, this significant contribution will benefit 18,500 women across the country, 500 women each from the 36 states and the FCT.

She said that each of the 18,500 women would receive N50,000 each to strengthen and recapitalise their businesses.

“Today, I have the privilege of presenting N50,000 each to some of the preselected 500 beneficiaries here in the FCT, amounting to N25 million.

“This support is a testament to the power of collaboration and generosity, and I hope it inspires others across our nation to join in uplifting women entrepreneurs.

“As we launch the Renewed Hope Initiative/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Economic Empowerment Programme in the FCT, let us remember that together, we are planting seeds of prosperity for our communities and our nation,” she said.

The coordinator said that the programme aims to uplift women traders and small-scale business owners in the FCT and the country.

“Those who rise each day with determination to provide for their families, educate their children, and strengthen our communities. Today, we are taking concrete steps to support and expand their efforts.

“It is important to clarify that what we are offering is not a loan, but a grant seed of renewed hope designed to help you recapitalise and expand your existing businesses.

“We firmly believe that empowering women means empowering households, communities, and indeed, our entire nation,” she said.

Benjamins-Laniyi reiterated the commitment of the FCT Administration, led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud to the success of the RHI programmes in the FCT.

Also speaking, Hajia Salamatu Jubril, FCT Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), lauded the First Lady and Benjamins-Laniyi for their dedication to women’s economic empowerment.

Similarly, Hajia Hadiza Umar, Leader of the National Council for Women’s Societies FCT Chapter, commended the bold step of Benjamins-Laniyi to reach-out to widows, youths, and the less-privileged across the six area councils of the FCT.

One of the beneficiaries, Ms Angela Elube, expressed profound gratitude for the support, noting that the grant would significantly boost their small businesses. (NAN)

Edited by Deborah Coker

FCT’s infrastructural development fulfilling Tinubu’s vision – Wike 
Metro

FCT’s infrastructural development fulfilling Tinubu’s vision – Wike 

 

By Angela Atabo

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike has described the ongoing infrastructural development in the FCT as a “fulfilment of President Bola Tinubu’s vision” for the nation’s capital.

Wike said this on Monday, while inaugurating the construction of Mohammed Isa Road Extension in Asokoro District, Abuja.

He faulted critics who claimed that Tinubu was not working saying, “you cannot say FCT is working and Mr President is not working. It doesn’t make sense.

“He is working through us. We carry out the directive; we carry out instructions; and we carry out the vision of Mr President and one of the visions is that FCT must compete favourably with other cities of the world. That is what we are doing”.

The minister urged Nigerians to be truthful to themselves, stressing that if the ongoing infrastructural developments were done before now, the Tinubu administration would have channeled the resources to other things.

The minister pointed out that the way Abuja was two years ago is not the way it is today, assuring that it would not be the same tomorrow.

He appealed for continued support to the present administration, noting that Tinubu had demonstrated leadership and commitment to change the lives of Nigerians.

Wike explained that the ongoing massive investment in schools’ rehabilitation and other interventions in transport and other sectors was to ensure balanced development across the FCT.

“We have touched transport, we have touched roads, we have touched sports, we have touched education, and now we are touching the health sector.

“I assure you, no sector will be left untouched. All we need to do is just to be patient, and to be patient means to give us time,” he said.

The minister, however, pointed out that all planned development efforts largely depend on the availability of resources and urged residents to support the administration by paying their taxes.

“All these good roads, good drainage system, and the street lights, wouldn’t be possible if you don’t pay taxes.

“Try and pay your taxes so we can provide more of these roads, connect the drainages and keep our environment clean,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola and Yakubu Uba

Wike assures timely completion of ongoing road projects in FCT
Metro

Wike assures timely completion of ongoing road projects in FCT

By Angela Atabo

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, on Saturday, assured timely completion of ongoing road projects across the FCT.

Wike gave the assurance in Abuja, while inspecting the ongoing constructions of Wuye to Ring Road II Road and the dual carriageway from Airport Road to Kuje.

He reassured residents of Kuje and its environs that the ongoing Airport–Kuje dual carriageway would be completed before the third anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration.

He said that the project has recorded significant progress, especially in rock blasting and landscape preparation.

He commended Arab Contractors for the quality of work, stressing that upon completion, the road would transform transportation and housing options for Kuje residents.

“By the time this road is commissioned, which is not less than eight lanes, it won’t take 15 to 20 minutes to reach the city centre.

“That means residents of Kuje no longer need to relocate to the city before enjoying urban living.

“That is what development and the Renewed Hope Agenda are all about,” Wike said.

The minister also vowed to improve security and waste management in the city and satellite towns.

He acknowledged that occasional incidents occur but maintained that Abuja remained one of the safest cities in Nigeria.

Wike linked ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the “Light Up Abuja” initiative, to security improvements.

“Light Up Abuja is not just to beautify the city but also to enhance security.

“Security challenges happen everywhere, even in developed countries like the U.S. But Abuja has been relatively safe, and security agencies deserve credit,” he added.

Wike also addressed the challenge of indiscriminate refuse dumping along major corridors, including Airport Road and the Nyanya-Karshi axis.

He disclosed that the FCT Administration is set to award a new waste disposal contract within two weeks, emphasising that only competent contractors with the required capacity would be engaged.

“We are not happy with the situation, but everything is being done to ensure proper refuse disposal.

“We will no longer allow political contractors without capacity to handle such an important service,” he assured.

Residents of satellite towns also appealed for intervention in dilapidated road networks, especially in Federal Housing Estates.

The minister also reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, improved urban services, and balanced development across the six area councils of the FCT. (NAN)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal

Wike inaugurates transit way project, pledges more investment in schools, health
Metro

Wike inaugurates transit way project, pledges more investment in schools, health

By Angela Atabo

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has inaugurated the construction of Transit Way (N2) road, linking Wuse Zone 3 to the Central Area, with assurances for more projects in the area.

Speaking during the ceremony on Friday, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, said that road infrastructure remains the backbone of every modern city for investments and accelerating growth.

Wike said that the N2 road project was one of the major infrastructure efforts lined up for President Bola Tinubu’s third-year anniversary

He said that the FCTA is positioning Abuja as a model modern city through roads, schools, health facilities and investor-friendly initiatives.

“There is no development in any city without a good network of roads.

“When all the cities are linked with good roads, then you can talk about development. Road infrastructure attracts investment.”

Wike said that Abuja has already caught the attention of international investors, citing a Dubai-based company that had committed to replicate the Dubai City Walk project in the FCT.

He explained that the N2 corridor which would be supported by two strategic bridges, evolved from a citizen-led initiative around the TY Danjuma Foundation.

He said that the FCTA took over and expanded the scope to connect the Central Area with Wuse District.

The Minister assured of strict supervision of the contractors handling projects for the government.

He announced fresh plans to rehabilitate not less than 40 additional schools across the FCT to complement 70 ongoing school projects, out of which about 45 have already been completed.

He added that attention would soon shift to healthcare facilities, stressing the urgency of timely project delivery.

“Time waits for nobody. If you don’t know how to meet up, go and ask those who know how to beat up with the speed I work with,” Wike warned

He urged top officials to keep their phones on 24 hours for effective coordination.

The Minister noted that projects Inauguration activities would run until late October, after which more projects vital to the economy and the city’s landscape would be unveiled from November.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a milestone in strengthening connectivity, easing traffic congestion and promoting seamless movement within Abuja City centre.

She noted that the N2 Transit Way is another demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda translating into visible dividends for residents.

Mahmoud further applauded the National Assembly for their consistent support through collaboration and legislative backing.

“Your role in ensuring that the FCT receives the needed budgetary attention and oversight is highly commendable and today, we are witnessing the fruits of such partnership,” she stated. (NAN)

Edited by Francis Onyeukwu

Wike inaugurates solar light project to illuminate Abuja
Metro

Wike inaugurates solar light project to illuminate Abuja

 

By Angela Atabo

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated a solar lighting project designed to illuminate Abuja, curb insecurity, and reduce the financial burden of streetlight maintenance.

Wike said the installation of Integrated (Hybrid) Solar Lighting in the Districts of Abuja city and expressways under the Light up  Abuja Project: Loys I and II, in Abuja on Thursday would help to reduce crime in the FCT.

“Lot 1 will take care of Maitama, Central Area,  Wuse, Asokoro and Airport Expressway while Lot 2 comprises Katampe,  Katampe Extension,  Jabi, Garki, Gudu, Mabushi.

“The Light up Abuja Project includes supply and installation (retrofitting) of integrated Hybrid Solar Street lighting fittings of 300W Solar Powered lights luminous flux ranging from 7,500lm to 17,500lm ongoing Streets and Expressways with necessary accessories.

“There will also be supply and installation of galvanised streetlight poles at new locations and also replace vandalised and knocked down poles.

“The streetlights will have a Surveillance Module and there will be a Control Room, such that any attempt to vandalise them will be captured.”

Wike said that the project would be completed within six months.

He described the project as both important and challenging, noting that past efforts at keeping Abuja lit were constantly sabotaged through cable theft, vandalism of poles, and inflated maintenance costs.

“When we assumed office in August 2023, about 80 per cent of the city was in darkness.

“This worsened insecurity and created embarrassment for the nation’s capital,” he said.

Wike explained that during a visit to Beijing in 2024 with President Bola Tinubu, the FCTA signed agreements with two companies, CGC and CCECC.

This, he said, was to provide solar-powered streetlights fitted with surveillance features to prevent theft and vandalism.

The firms, he said, would also maintain the installations for four to five years, eliminating the recurrent expenditure on streetlight maintenance.

Wike acknowledged that the reform would affect entrenched interests, including political contractors and corrupt insiders, who had benefited from the old system.

He said that the administration was ready for the attacks, the propaganda, and the blackmail.

He said this was because leadership is about taking tough decisions for the greater good.

“Abuja cannot remain in darkness if we want to compete globally and even host events like the Commonwealth Games,” he emphasised.

Wike assured residents that within the next seven months, Abuja would wear a new look, especially as the city prepares to mark its 50th anniversary in February 2026.

“Anybody flying into Abuja will now see a city beautifully lit, not darkness. Criminals thrive in the dark, but with light everywhere, safety will be greatly enhanced,” he said.

On her part, the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a landmark initiative that goes beyond lighting.

“This project is about safety, security, sustainability, and service to residents.

“It promotes clean and renewable energy, reduces Abuja’s carbon footprint, and supports the Smart City Agenda, making the capital a model of sustainable urban living,” she said.

She commended Wike for his unwavering leadership and vision, which she said continues to drive impactful infrastructural development across the territory.

She said that the project would create jobs for youths, reduce insecurity, and reposition Abuja as a modern, world-class city. (NAN)

Edited by Benson iziama

FCTA unveils health projects to improve maternal health, clean air
Health

FCTA unveils health projects to improve maternal health, clean air

Projects

By Angela Atabo

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched the distribution of the ‘Renewed Hope Mother–Baby Kits Initiative’ and the ‘Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project’, aimed at improving maternal health and household air quality.

FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, inaugurated the two projects on Wednesday at Asokoro District Hospital, Abuja, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

Mahmoud explained that the initiatives, tagged “Wike Renewing Hope: One Baby at a Time, One Home at a Time,” were being implemented in collaboration with IHS Nigeria.

She described them as a holistic approach to healthcare and environmental sustainability, protecting mothers and newborns during childbirth while reducing the dangers of household air pollution.

“No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care,” she said.

According to her, the free Mother–Baby Kits contain essential medical supplies and consumables to support safe labour, delivery, and neonatal care across the FCT.

Highlighting the environmental aspect, Mahmoud described the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project as a “bold, forward-looking” initiative to reduce indoor air pollution in vulnerable households.

”Under the project, polluting fuels like firewood, charcoal, and kerosene will be replaced with smart, efficient Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cookers.

“This will help tackle one of the silent but deadly health risks in the home, respiratory diseases caused by smoke inhalation,” she added.

The minister also noted that the FCTA had strengthened its health workforce through better working conditions and consistent training.

She added that the administration had made significant investments in infrastructure, ranging from hospital renovations to the establishment of a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.

On the occasion of Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary, Mahmoud called on citizens to recommit to “building an FCT where every home is healthier, every birth is safer, and every breath, cleaner.”

Earlier, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary, FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, decried the country’s persistently high maternal and infant mortality rates.

“Too many women still die during childbirth, and too many newborns never see their first birthday,” she said.

Fasawe emphasised that one of the main causes of preventable deaths was the lack of access to clean, safe, and essential delivery supplies.

She said the Renewed Hope Mother–Baby Kit Initiative was developed to address that gap by providing basic but critical items for hygienic and safe deliveries. (NAN)

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Abiemwense Moru

Fayose celebrates Olayinka’s humble beginning, loyalty
General News

Fayose celebrates Olayinka’s humble beginning, loyalty

By Angela Atabo

Former Gov. Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti has showered encomiums on his longtime associate and political ally, Mr Lere Olayinka, on his birthday, commending his humble beginning and loyalty.

In the birthday message in Abuja on Wednesday, Fayose described Olayinka, the spokesman of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, as a “man of wisdom, loyalty and relevance”.

He said that Olayinka rose from humble beginnings in Okemesi to becoming a respected public figure and household name in Nigerian politics and media.

“Olayinka is a great man, young, diligent, submissive and determined, whom God has raised from Okemesi; a man of stature, relevance, and wisdom who knows his onions.

“From humble beginnings, you have expanded your coast, protected your name and risen to become a respected figure; all to the glory of God.

“There is no regret in working with you,” Fayose said.

The former governor, known for his outspoken political style, further described Olayinka as a “loyal aide and dependable defender” who had consistently stood tall in the face of challenges.

He highlighted Olayinka’s role as a shining representative of the Osoko Political Family worldwide, acknowledging his service, resilience and faithfulness.

Describing Olayinka as “my boy, my son, my follower, my brother, and my defender, Fayose said the spokesman had become a household name in the country’s media and political space.

“This is only the beginning. The future is indeed bright. Happy birthday and many happy returns,” Fayose said. (NAN)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Foundation launches cloth-a-child project in FCT
Metro

Foundation launches cloth-a-child project in FCT

 

By Angela Atabo

ATRED Foundation, an NGO has launched the pilot phase of its Cloth-a-Child Project to promote school enrolment, increase retention, and reduce poverty at the family and community levels.

Mrs Victory Akachukwu, Executive Director of the Foundation, announced this at the launch of the project’s pilot phase on Thursday in Abuja, where the initiative officially began in selected public schools.

Akachukwu explained the project would be implemented in four public primary schools across FCT: Mabushi, Sabon Gari, Bwari, Pasali in Kuje, and Mpape under Local Education Authorities.

She said the initiative was a strategic response to the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, especially girls who were disproportionately affected by poverty and cultural constraints.

“The project provides school uniforms, socks, and shoes to underserved children, encouraging enrolment, especially for girls, while reducing absenteeism and promoting retention in public schools,” Akachukwu stated.

She said that the project aimed to empower children with dignity, confidence, and hope, helping them overcome social barriers and complete their basic education without stigma or exclusion.

“This is about restoring hope, breaking barriers, and giving every child a fair chance at education. A simple uniform can bridge the gap between exclusion and opportunity,” she added.

In addition to distributing uniforms, ATRED Foundation awarded scholarships to three children, covering their education until completion, further reinforcing its commitment to long-term educational support.

Akachukwu noted that the foundation took a holistic approach, combining material aid with lasting educational investments, to help children thrive in spite of socio-economic challenges they might face.

She also announced plans to expand the Cloth-a-Child Project to all six area councils of the FCT and eventually into states with high numbers of out-of-school children.

According to her, this scale-up will ensure no child, especially vulnerable girls, is left behind due to poverty or lack of access to basic educational necessities like uniforms and school shoes.

She commended Peace Microfinance Bank, FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Future Focus, Hassam Foundation, Beyond Border Foundation and Doxa Digital for making the initiative possible. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Nigeria needs courageous leaders for better, sustainable future – Arewa group 
Politics

Nigeria needs courageous leaders for better, sustainable future – Arewa group 

By Diana Omueza

Arewa for Renewed Hope Agenda, a non-partisan advocacy group, says Nigeria deserves leaders whose decisions may be tough today but will lead to a better tomorrow.

Speaking at a news conference in Abuja, the group’s chairman, Mr Abu Misodi, highlighted the importance of leaders who are willing to promote long-term progress.

Misodi urges opposition parties to desist from the narration of hopelessness, alleging that nothing was working under President Bola Tinubu.

According to him, truth matters and the progress being recorded by the Tinubu administration must be defended.

“Nigeria deserves leaders who are not afraid to make hard
decisions — decisions that may be tough today but will lead to a better tomorrow.

“As Nigerians who believe in the promise of our great nation, we recognise the need for leadership that is bold, forward-thinking, and committed to truth and transformation.

“We need the courage to modernise systems and the faith to act with integrity and vision.

“Nigeria’s path to progress lies in unity, transparency, and a collective commitment to building a better future.”

Misodi encouraged citizens to reject pessimism and embrace hope, saying the country’s challenges could be overcome through shared effort and positive engagement.

He urged Nigerians to focus on building a prosperous, inclusive society that benefited all regions and communities equally.

“This is a movement for every man and woman who believes that reason must rise above dogma; that unity must conquer division, and that Nigeria must
come first — always,” he said.

Referencing Nigeria’s founding leaders, Misodi called on current and future leaders to draw inspiration from their dedication to justice, dignity, and nation-building.

“Unity, peace, and progress are not just ideals; they are the foundations of our democratic journey.

“We must stand for the truth, uplift our communities, and walk together toward a brighter Nigeria.

“Our generation carries the responsibility of renewal, and with hope, we will rise to meet it,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Abiemwense Moru

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