NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Metro

FCT residents laud Wike for opening Karmo District Market

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By Joshua Olomu

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commended Minister of the FCT, Nyesome Wike  for opening the newly constructed Karmo District Market for business.

Some of the residents, especially those living around the Karmo district, including traders, spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline of the official commissioning of the market on Wednesday in Abuja.

The market was built under Public-Private Partnership by the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), Rural Homes and other partners.

According to the residents, opening the market, which took over seven years of construction, is a commendable feat by the Wike-led FCT administration, as it will boost economic activities in the area.

Mr Francis Adamu, a dealer on fabrics, expressed joy that  finally, the Karmo market was officially inaugurated.

“This means that more developmental activities will spring up here.

“I think we need to thank the FCT minister for working to ensure that the long wait is over, and other  partners, especially the Rural Homes must also be commended,” Adamu said.

A dealer on electronics and furniture, Mr Ike Ekeka,  said: “I have bought a shop here because of the uniqueness of the market  and proximity to my home.

“There is no doubt that Rural Homes and the AICL have built a world class market here in Karmo, and we are especially grateful to ‘Mr Project’, the FCT minister.”

On her part, Mrs Rahab Isa, a resident in the area, said that Karmo was a developing area, adding that the market would surely boost economic activities here.

“We will no longer have to go to other markets in Wuse and Garki and that is why we are happy that the minister is formally opening the market today,” she said.

While commissioning the market, Minister of State for FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, who represented Wike, said  the  project was part of the government’s efforts to promote economic growth in the territory.

“This project is a clear demonstration of our administration’s commitment to fostering economic growth, empowering businesses, and creating a conducive environment for trade and commerce in the city of Abuja.

“Markets are the heartbeat of every community, they are not just centres for buying and selling, they represent the strength of our local economy and the resilience of our people.

“This district market is designed to serve as a hub for business activities, providing traders with modern facilities and ensuring the residents have access to quality of goods and services.

“The integration of this market would undoubtedly boost local commerce, creating employment opportunities for our youth, and enhance the livelihood of our people in line with the renewed hope agenda of  President Bola Tinubu,” she said.

The minister expressed optimism that the market would contribute significantly to revenue generation for the FCT.

“It’s my conviction that the market will contribute significantly to the revenue generation for the FCT and improve the business environment in the district.

“While we celebrate this achievement, I wish to urge all traders and residents to make proper use of this facility by ensuring cleanliness, orderliness, and mutual respect remains our word,” she said.

Sa’adatu Aliyu, Managing Director of Rural Homes said the market is developed on 9.9 hectares of land, with over 2,500 units of well-organised shops for different categories of goods and services.

She said the market sections include the cold room and meat sections of the farmers’ market, with over 150 stalls and over 100 enclosed units.

“We have duplexes here for offices, including banks, clinics and fire service, and all of these make it a complete business hub.

“The shops here are very affordable because before we started this project, we went around Abuja to see how this market is going to tally with other developments, and we have done that consistently over the period.

“We discovered from our findings that our shops are priced lower than other markets, and there are flexible payment plans available,” she said.(NAN)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Metro

Foundation urges unity ahead of 2025 Global Disability Summit

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By Ahmed Musa

The Albino Foundation Africa (TAF Africa) has called on Nigerian disability community to remain united while presenting its commitment towards fostering disability-inclusive development at 2025 Global Disability Summit in Germany.

Mr Jake Epelle, the Chief Executive Officer of the group, made the call on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

NAN reports that the summit, which is scheduled to be held between April 2 and 3 in Berlin, Germany, is organised by the International Disability Alliance and the governments of Germany and Jordan.

”We have to ensure that the disability community go there with one voice and the position of the Nigerian Community of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) as well as that of government is well articulated.

”We have to determine what will be our position so that we don’t go there and everybody is speaking across purpose, there is a need for us to have one voice that resonate in the conference.

”A voice that will speak to specific issues that would address the yearnings and aspirations of Persons with Disabilities especially the need to advance our social inclusion” Epelle said.

The TAF Africa CEO also explained that the focus of the summit would be the commitment of stakeholders especially on the areas of need to PwDs.

”Commitment is part of the summit because it is designed to get individuals, organisations, countries to send in their commitments.

”If your commitment is on inclusion, if your commitment is on women empowerment or engaging critical stakeholders, you have to detail that commitment and it has to be read on the floor of the Summit.

”Nigeria has not been part of the co-sponsors of the summit and I think we should be calling for Nigeria to be recognised as the Co-Sponsor like Kenya and Ghana,” he said.

Epelle therefore, expressed the need for Nigeria to cosponsor the next Global Summit on Disability to showcase the country’s commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.

The aim of the Summit is to draw countries commitment to fostering disability-inclusive development, galvanise global efforts to achieve disability inclusion around the world (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Metro

Airtel Nigeria increases data prices

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Increment

By Funmilola Gboteku

Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecommunications operator (Telco) has announced a significant adjustment to its data pricing structure.

A check by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) using the *312# code and on the Airtel website showed the revised data prices.

According to the telco’s website, the revision, which affects various data bundles, is aimed at mitigating the impact of escalating operational costs on the company’s operations, amidst a challenging economic landscape.

The revised data plans, published on its website, include daily plans: N50 for 40MB (valid for 1 day), N100 for 100MB (valid for 1 day), N200 for 200MB (valid for 3 days), and N350 for 1GB (valid for 1 day).

On the other hand, weekly plans have become N350 for 350MB (valid for 7 days), N500 for 750MB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 200MB YouTube Music/Spotify (valid for 7 days), N500 for 1GB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 50MB Socials (valid for 7 days), and N500 for 2GB (valid for 2 days).

Other changes for monthly plan include 3GB for N2,000 (from 1.5GB at N1,200), 4GB for N2,500 (formerly 3GB at N1,500), and 8GB for N3,000 (formerly 4.5GB at N2,000).

Other adjustments include 10GB for N4,000 (formerly 6GB at N2,500), 13GB for N5,000 (from 10GB at N3,000), 18GB for N6,000 (formerly 15GB at N4,000), and 25GB for N8,000 (replacing 18GB at N5,000).

Airtel’s call rates rose to 25 kobo per second from about 18 kobo per second. Like MTN, Airtel has left some tariff plans untouched. For instance, the 5GB plan/week for N1,500 remains unchanged.

This development comes on the heels of a tariff hike of about 50 per cent by MTN Nigeria, which took effect almost a week ago, in a bid to cushion the impact of rising operational costs.

NAN reports that a look at the telco’s X page revealed bitter complaints by subscribers.

A Subscriber, Okikiola (@okikiola_Ayoade) said: “Return our data bundles back e no easy to dey get money, you people dey inconvenience us, data from 3000 for 20gb is now 3000 for 10gb ,Why are we suffering for what we are paying for, ogun dey kee una shey until when we no get clothes for neck again?

Also, Jessy Paul (@Firstjessy), another Subscriber, queried the telco for stopping its previous data offer, saying that the only reason he was using Airtel was because their plans were reasonable.

“Can you change it back to what it used to be or should I break my Airtel SIM and switch to another network?” Paul asked.

Another Subscriber, ShadeFX D BoiCrypt (@ShadeFx__) said: “Life is already hard for us and you decided to add more to it by being heartless, Why increase data plans and then exhaust it so fast.

“What did we do wrong by choosing to use your network? Does it sounds fair to you now? Are you happy? This is Evil,” he said.

However, Airtel on its X page apologised for the inconveniences caused by the data increase to subscribers who complained.

“We extend our sincere understanding regarding your concerns, and wish to apprise you that comprehensive revisions have been effectuated across our voice and data plans,” Airtel said.

NAN reports that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the industry’s regulatory body, had approved a maximal increment of 50 per cent tariff adjustments to operators, citing the need to ensure the sustainability of the telecommunications industry.

The commission said its approval was in response to prevailing operational costs and was made pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA).

The NCC said that, while recognising the concerns of the public, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors. (NAN)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Metro

A’Ibom governor warns against unauthorised press statements

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 Statements

By Isaiah Eka

Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has warned incoming State Executive Council (EXCO) members not to issue press statements without the approval of the Secretary to the State Government.

The governor gave the warning during a Sunday service at the Uyo Archdiocesan Headquarters of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Itiam Etoi in Uyo.

Eno stressed that only the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor and the incoming Commissioner for Information can issue press statements on behalf of the government.

He urged the citizens and government officials to uphold peace and unity in the state at all times, calling for continuous efforts toward fostering harmony.

The governor encouraged officials to carry out their duties with decorum, avoiding chaos or actions that might disrupt the peace and unity of the state.

He explained that the clarification was necessary before constituting the new Executive Council, assuring that he was building a team focused on delivering the ARISE Agenda.

“No government appointee has the right to issue a press statement without clearance from the Secretary to Government,” Eno said.

He urged cooperation to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Eno further explained that only two people, the Commissioner for Information and the Chief Press Secretary, have the authority to speak on behalf of the Akwa Ibom State Government.

“We must continue to maintain decency and decorum in the state, ensuring the growth of peace and unity. Together, we will deliver democracy’s benefits to our people,” he said.

Eno reminded appointees to emulate the Biblical Joseph from the Egyptian cabinet, embracing a forgiving spirit and working towards the state’s development.

The governor also praised the Church for its organisation and commended the homilist’s message on peace and harmony.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Christian community in the state, ensuring their continued growth and well-being.

Earlier, the Methodist Archbishop of Uyo, Rev. John Ene Koko-Bassey, spoke on “Forgiveness,” referencing Genesis 45:3-5.

He urged Christians to emulate Joseph’s forgiveness in the face of offences. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Metro

FG working to correct January salary shortfalls – JPSNC

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Salary

By Joan Nwagwu

The Joint Public Service Negotiating Council (JPSNC) has assured federal workers that the government is addressing discrepancies in January salaries, which were reportedly lower than previous months.

Mr Benjamin Anthony, National Chairman of the council said this while speaking with newsmen on Monday in Abuja.

Anthony was reacting to concerns raised by some federal civil service workers about shortfalls in their January salaries.

He disclosed that the shortfalls were traced to a “systematic error’’ in the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

“We received complaints, though not in writing, from workers about reductions in their January salaries compared to what they received in October to December, 2024.

“Following the complaints, we issued a memo to all industrial unions to gather details from their members and revert to us, to enable the council escalate it to the federal government for correction.

“Some sources, though unconfirmed from IPPIS, told us that there was a problem.

“They said that it was a systematic mistake from the computers and that they are working to correct it.

“I believed that they are working on it and it will be corrected,” he said.

Anthony urged the affected workers to formally report the discrepancies through their industrial unions to aid resolution.

“We have already written to the Head of Service of the Federation and she has promised to forward the complaint to the Accountant General office to know what the issue is all about.

“She also assured us that, if there are issues, every worker will be paid their correct salaries,’’ he said.

Anthony enjoined the affected workers to check their salary structures to verify their expected earnings before raising concerns.

He said part of the problems might be linked to the peculiar allowance negotiated by the council, which the government had agreed to continue paying, but appears to have been omitted by the IPPIS system.

“The federal government has agreed to continue paying the peculiar allowance, and I believe that is what the system mistakenly removed.

“It will be reinstated, and the affected workers will receive their full entitlements,” he assured.

Anthony expressed confidence in the Head of Service’s commitment to resolving the issue promptly. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Metro

Public service: FCTA builds leadership capacities of young civil servants

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By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commenced a capacity building programme to nurture leadership abilities of young civil servants for effective public service.

Mr Grace Adayilo, Head of FCT Civil Service stated this in Abuja on Friday, at the opening of the1st Cohort of the FCT Leadership Enhancement and Development Programme (FCT LEAD-P).

Adayilo explained that the FCT LEAD-P was one of three core training programmes established under the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP), 2020 to 2025.

She said that the programme specifically targets civil servants on grades level 10 to 14, made up of highly talented individuals deemed essential for the succession planning and transformation of the civil service.

According to her, the programme is strategically designed to attract, recruit, and nurture these individuals through a comprehensive array of training activities.

“LEAD-P is regarded as a pivotal element for the future of public service, with its guidelines informed by the FCSSIP, policies governing leadership management and succession planning in the civil service.

“Establishment of the FCT LEAD-P is a crucial step toward ensuring that we have a pool of highly skilled and capable leaders ready to take on the challenges of governing our vibrant capital territory.”

She disclosed that the FCT LEAD-P aims to train a minimum of 100 officers every year to cultivate a new generation of leaders.

She added that the officer would be equipped not only with the requisite knowledge and skills but also with resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to FCT’s shared vision of public service excellence.

Adayilo said that the move would establish a solid foundation for effective succession planning that fosters a culture of self-development, designed to enrich the civil service landscape.

The head of service commended the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, for approving the programme, which demonstrated his commitment and visionary leadership.

She encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunities for learning, networking, and personal growth that lie ahead.

The Permanent Secretary, Common Services, FCTA, Mr Babatunde Ajayi, said that the programme marks a significant and transformative chapter in the journey toward building a dynamic and efficient civil service in the FCT.

“This programme is not just an educational endeavour; it is a gateway to self-discovery and professional growth.

“Our commitment extends beyond mere training; it is about nurturing a culture of leadership that resonates throughout every level of our administration.

“Each successful cohort of this programme will be regarded as the elite crop of civil servants, distinguished by the depth of knowledge and expertise they have acquired,” he said.

On her part, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, acting Director, Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, FCTA, said that the programme was the first of its kind in the history of the FCT.

“This is the first time this is happening in the FCTA to fill the identified gaps in service delivery following a result of a baseline research,” she said.

Ahmadu Said that 975 officers applied for the programme, out of which only 100 would be selected for a 7-months training within and outside the FCT.

She said that the officers would be trained to fill the gap in the next generation of leaders when their time comes to become directors, permanent secretaries or head of service.

She explained that the officer would be trained to work in any of FCTA’s secretariats, departments and agencies, including serving as technical assistants to political appointees. (NAN)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Mass Housing
Metro

Don advises FG on affordable housing for vulnerable individuals

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By Lydia Ngwakwe

A retired Professor of Sociology, Lai Olurode, has urged the Federal Government to partner the private sector to deliver affordable housing for the vulnerable in the country.

Olurode disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.

He was reacting to the Federal Government’s proposed construction of 100,000 social housing units for vulnerable groups across the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the country.

Olurode said the housing could be smaller units like a room and parlor, instead of full flats, to reduce costs.

He recommended that local materials such as  mud and thatch should be used for the construction to lower construction expenses.

He said the cultural context of the target beneficiaries’ locations should be considered to prevent abandonment of the housing units.

Olurode urged the government to ensure that the housing project benefits the vulnerable groups it intended to serve.

He called on the Federal Government to ensure proper monitoring of the project to avoid being hijacked by powerful individuals and elites.

“It’s a laudable decision if the governments have come out to say that it will deliver that large scale houses across the 774 LGAs in the country.

“But the caveat is that accessibility must be guaranteed by the vulnerable group.

“The project must not be allowed to be hijacked by very powerful individuals, politically well-connected and dominant economic elites who, in terms of affordability might be able to muster the financial strength to purchase the funds.

“We don’t know what the criteria will be, if the vulnerable groups are really the targets, how are they to be reached? How are we going to make sure that they are not short-changed?,’’ Olurode said.

He urged the government to use the Lateef Jakande’s housing project in Lagos as a model, which successfully targeted low-income groups.

He also stressed the need for accurate data collection in identifying the vulnerable population.

He advocated the use of the National Identification Numbers (NINs) to gather information about the unemployed, uneducated, homeless, and those without skills.

Olurode highlighted the failures of past programmes due to lack of accurate target, suggesting that the government could work through the local governments and grassroots organisations to identify these individuals.

He noted that housing alone was not enough to tackle the challenges in the country.

He advised the government to come up with a comprehensive system of social services, which would include basic income support for the elderly, unemployed youths, and others in need.

“ I think what is missing in Nigeria’s development trajectories is the fear of government to render social services.

“What do I mean? If you have  name, you have national identity numbers for every group, you have data on them, whether they are on NIN or on any income at all, then you can support them to open an account, even if it’s only N10,000.

“So that the burden on the income of the working individuals who currently support vulnerable family members will reduce.

“Because by the time that you have a house or roof over your head and you cannot feed, the next thing you will think of is to sell the house,’’ he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Metro

How Wike’s bus terminal projects create 3,000 jobs for Abuja residents

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By Philip Yatai

The ongoing construction of three bus and taxi terminals by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, has created more than 3,000 jobs for the residents of Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Wike in July 2024, inaugurated the construction of three bus and taxi terminals, one each in Mabushi, Central Area and Kugbo.

The move, according to the minister, is to ensure a secure and convenient travel experience for commuters in the FCT and create job opportunities for the residents.

Mr Rasheed Sholadoye, the Project Manager, Planet Projects, the company executing the projects, told NAN that the 3,000 workers comprised both skilled, unskilled artisans and security.

Sholadoye said that part of the conditions in the contract required the company to employ residents in the execution of the project as part of FCT Administration’s strategy for job creation.

“FCT residents have enjoyed enormously from this project. We have employed a whole lot of them.

“You know it’s a construction site and certain workers will be needed at certain stages of the construction.

“It’s difficult to give you an exact number but more than 3,000 residents have been engaged and more will be employed as the work progresses,” he said.

Kugbo Bus and Taxi Terminal, Abuja, at 85 per cent completion

He said that while the construction of the bus terminals in Mabushi and Kugbo commenced in July 2024, that of Central Area commenced two months later.

He explained that the delay followed the relocation of some underground facilities at the project site located close to eagle square.

The project manager expresses optimism that despite the delay, the projects were still on track and would be delivered as scheduled.

He disclosed that Mabushi bus terminal has reached 92 per cent completion stage, the Kugbo terminal at 85 per cent completion while that of Central Area at about 50 per cent.

“Hopefully with our schedule and programme of work, by the grace of God, the terminals in Mabushi and Kubo will be ready for inauguration by the end of February.

“On the other hand, the one in Central Area will be ready in May.

“The projects are all encompassing with commercial activities in all the terminals, including cinema halls, where people can relax while waiting for their bus.

“We are bringing state of the art facilities, especially the one in Central Area. It will be a terminal that the people of Abuja will love to see and enjoy,” he said.

29-year-old welder, Mr Happiness Johnson, working at Mabushi Bus and Taxi Terminal, Abuja

Some of the workers at the sites, who lauded the initiative, lauded Wike for putting food on their table.

One of them, a 29-year-old welder, Mr Happiness Johnson, who lives in Kubwa, said the project has provided him with a stable job.

Johnson, who thanked Wike for mandating the contractor to employ residents, said that the steady means of income significantly improved his standard of living.

On her part, a 31-year-old mother of four, Mrs Abigail Daniel, a cleaner at the Mabushi terminal, expressed optimism for a brighter future as a worker in the facility.

Daniel said she was working as a house help but lost the job when her employer travelled out of the country.

“Life was difficult for me and my children until I got this job. I am grateful to the FCT minister for making this happen for me,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

Metro

FCTA approves N36.5bn for projects in capital city, satellite towns

221 total views today

Projects

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved N36.5 billion for the execution of several projects in Federal Capital City and satellite towns.

Mr Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, Coordinator, Satellite Towns Development Department, FCTA, disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday, while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the FCT Executive Committee meeting, the first in 2025.

Zulkiflu explained that out of the amount, 19.6 billion would be spent on the construction of multi-event sport centres and N13.9 billion on the construction of two magistrate courts.

He added that N3 billion would also be spent on the procurement and installation of a 33kv power supply and streetlight system.

The coordinator said that the committee approved the award of contract for the construction of a multi-event sport Complex in Abuja, Lot A and B.

He said that Lot A, sited at Area 3 and Area 10, Garki District, was awarded to Earthgain Energy and Environmental Services Ltd at N9.9 billion.

He added that Lot B, sited at Kafe District, behind Life Camp, was awarded to Tegwa-Tegwa Nigeria Ltd, at N9.7 billion.

Zulkiflu said that the projects were expected to be completed within 12 months.

“The committee also approved the construction of two magistrates’ courts in Asokoro and Garki Districts, at the cost of N7.6 billion and N6.3 billion respectively.

“The projects, expected to be delivered within 15 and 18 months respectively, were initiated to improve access to justice and legal services in the FCT,” he said.

The coordinator further said that a total of N3 billion was approved for the construction of a 33kva power supply for communities from Dawaki to Bwari.

He added that the amount would also cover a contract for the provision of a solar street light system on Arab Road and U-Shape Road in the same locations.

He said that the contract, awarded to CGC Nigeria Ltd would be completed in six months.

According to him, the move is to improve the security system of satellite towns. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Metro

FCTA approves N795.6m to insure movable, immovable assets

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By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved N795.6 million to provide a 12-month insurance cover for its movable and immovable assets.

Mrs Grace Adayilo, FCT Head of Civil Service disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday, while briefing journalists on the outcome of the FCT Executive Committee meeting, the first in 2025.

Adayilo said that the committee approved the contract to four insurance companies and three insurance brokers.

According to her, the insurance policy is mainly to safeguard FCT’s assets against various risks, including damage, loss or destruction.

“This will ensure the continuity of government businesses and minimise financial losses in the event of unforeseen incidents.

“This is in line with federal government’s directive, mandating the compulsory insurance of government assets, properties, buildings under construction and public funds,” she said.

She identified the insurance companies and brokers as Consolidated Hallmark Insurance PLC (Lead), KBL Insurance PLC, Cornerstone Insurance PLC and Crown Takaful Insurance Ltd.

Adayilo also identified the three insurance brokers as Sam-Vic Insurance Brokers Ltd (Lead), Radiance Insurance Brokers Ltd, and KOB Insurance Brokers Ltd. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

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