NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Metro

Wike directs contractor to complete road project in 7 months

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By Philip Yatai

Mr Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has directed the contractor executing the construction of access road to Judges Quarters, CGC Nig. Ltd, to complete the project in seven months.

Wike gave the timeline during the official commencement of the construction of the access road from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway by N16, to Judges Quarters, in Katampe District, Abuja on Tuesday.

The project also involves the construction of internal roads within the Judges’ Quarters.

The minister explained that the seven months ultimatum was for the project to be ready for inauguration in May, to celebrate President Bola Tinubu second year in office.

He told the contractor that 70 per cent of the contract sum was already provided for in the budget.

“So, you have to work day and night to make sure that Mr President commissioned the project on his second year anniversary,” he said.

Beyond the city centre, the minister said that about 65-kilometre roads would be completed and inaugurated across the six area councils of the FCT.

This, he said, was contrary to the erroneous views that the FCT Administration was concentrating development at the city centre.

He added that several other projects would be initiated across some area councils in a few days.

On education, Wike said that no fewer than 25 schools have been pencilled down for total rehabilitation.

The FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, commended judges in the FCT, whose commitment to justice and integrity inspires the FCT Administration to embark on the project.

“We are honoured to enhance your working environment with this new access road to the Judges’ Quarters under construction, which was designed to enhance the functionality of the judicial system.

“We have taken an important step in supporting our judiciary and reinforcing our commitment to justice.

“Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for our community,” she said.

Also, Mr Shehu Ahmad, Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, said that the road, when completed, would open up Katampe District and other adjoining districts.

Ahmad explained that the project was a 2.7-kilometre six lane arterial road connecting Katampe with Shehu Shagari Way, with an interchange over the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway.

“Along with this is the provision of engineering infrastructure, embodying water supply, power supply as well as storm water drainage facilities.

“We intend to provide solar street lights to light up the entire stretch of the road,” he added.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep.Tajudeen Abbas, described the project as a significant stride towards strengthening urban infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for the residents of Abuja.

Abbas, who was represented by the Deputy Speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, said: “Infrastructure development is not just the foundation upon which economies are built; it is the lifeblood of national progress.

“In a rapidly urbanising world, infrastructure, particularly in urban centres like Abuja, is crucial to fostering sustainable development, enhancing economic growth, and improving the well-being of our citizens.

“The construction of roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure facilitates the movement of people, goods, and services, which in turn spurs productivity, creates jobs, and improves the living standards of all Nigerians.”

He noted the country’s infrastructure deficit, estimated at about 3 trillion dollars, over the next 30 years to close the infrastructure gap and achieve the level of development required for sustained economic growth.

He identified road network, power supply, housing, healthcare, and education as key areas requiring urgent attention. (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Metro

Tinubu approves owner-occupier housing scheme for judges in FCT

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By Philip Yatai

President Bola Tinubu has approved owner-occupier housing scheme for judges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike stated this at the groundbreaking of 40 housing units Judges’ Quarters project, at Katampe District, Abuja on Monday.

The 40 housing units was for judicial officers of the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court and FCT High Court.

Wike said that 70 per cent of the project’s budget, which covers furnishing has been provided, adding that the contractor was expected to hand over the completed project in 15 months.

The gesture,  he said, was part of ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of judicial officers in the country in line with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said that Tinubu was working tirelessly to ensure the independence of the judiciary, through improved welfare packages and condition of service.

The minister said that another condition of service that was very critical in insulating the judiciary from interference and manipulation by the executive and legislative arms of government was housing.

Wike said the president had approved the owner-occupier housing for the judges so they could have their own home at retirement.

“With that, it will be difficult for anybody to manipulate or interfere with their duties. When you have a home, what are you afraid of?

“When you know that salaries and allowances will be paid when you are retired, when you know that your tenure of office is guaranteed, anybody would be firm, anybody would be courageous to do his work or her work,” he said.

Wike said the gesture was also part of FCT Administration’s efforts to render services to every Nigerian, who comes to FCT to carry out businesses or want to reside in Abuja.

He said that 20 additional houses would be provided in 2025 to the FCT judiciary and the Industrial Court, so they could also benefit from the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The minister explained that the land, upon which the houses would be built was revoked from Julius Berger for failing to develop it, 20 years after it was allocated to the company.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, lauded the gesture, describing it as a significant milestone in the federal government and FCT Administration’s efforts to enhance the welfare of judicial officers in the territory.

According to her, the judiciary plays a critical role in safeguarding the rule of law, upholding justice and protecting the rights of citizens.

“In fulfilling this rule, judicial officers must have the right tools and environments to carry out their duties with independence, impartiality and integrity.

“Beyond the courtroom, a supportive and conducive living environment is essential to the ability of judicial officers to focus on the heavy responsibilities entrusted to them.

“Judicial officers require peace of mind, security and comfort in their residences to fully dedicate themselves to the rigorous task of interpreting and applying the law.

Kekere-Ekun said that the construction of the houses was a practical step towards ensuring that judicial officers were well supported.

She said that the houses would provide a secure and tranquil environment, enabling the judicial officers to perform their duties with greater focus, efficiency and clarity of mind.

“By making this investment, the FCT Administration has demonstrated a commendable understanding of the unique needs of the judiciary,” she said.

Also, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, the Minister of State, FCT, described Wike’s commitment towards enhancing infrastructure for the judiciary as “invaluable and inspiring”.

Mahmoud urged for stakeholders’ support to create a space that reflects the nation’s values and commitment to justice. (NAN)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

Metro

FCTA begins post-development audit of  buildings in FCT

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By Philip Yatai/Angela Atabo

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has begun a post-development audit of buildings in the FCT.

Chief Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), made this known while inaugurating a Ministerial Committee on Post-Development Audit of Buildings in the FCT.

Obuah explained while inaugurating the committee in Abuja on Thursday that the Abuja Master Plan, developed in 1979 provides the roadmap for the orderly development of the nation’s capital city, Abuja.

According to him, the overarching goal is to build one of the most prestigious and modernist cities in the world.

He pointed out that over the years, the FCTA has been able to develop many phases of the city, districts and neighbourhoods.

“We have equally been able to develop critical infrastructures that provide circulatory road systems, metro lines and stations, sewer lines and drainages, among others.

“Today the city can boast of many iconic landmark developments such as the National Mosque, the National Christian Center, the National Assembly Complex, and the Supreme Court Complex.

“Others are the World Trade Centre, Abuja – the tallest building in the city with 22 floors, the CBN Complex, and many other iconic buildings of international repute and reference points for tourists.

“All these attests to the fact that our city has come to stay; our city has developed substantially from Phase 1 through Phase 3 while the other phases are equally being developed.

“Nonetheless, it becomes imperative too, that at this juncture of the city’s development, we take a cursory look at our journey in terms of what we have so far developed, the trend and chart a more robust course for the city’s development,” he said.

He said that it was on these grounds that the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike approved the constitution of the committee to audit the post- development of the city’s buildings.

He said that the committee, which would be chaired by Mr Mukhtar Galadima, Director, Department of Development Control, would be expected to provide accurate records of all development permits issued.

This, he said, would reduce the cases of unapproved development, illegal conversion of land use, and land grabbing.

He added that the committee would also provide data on the consumption of the city’s utilities and services such as water, electricity and connectivity to sewer lines.

This, according to him, will expose illegal connections to the facilities which is denying the government its due revenues.

“The committee will also provide data for accurate taxation and enhanced revenue generation by bringing all buildings and properties to the FCT Internal Revenue Tax Net.

“This will generate billions of Naira for the FCT Administration.

“Another task for the committee is the provision of data on research on city planning, development and management.

“Some of the buildings will be subjected to integrity tests to reduce cases of building collapse and hazards,” he said.

The coordinator said that members of the committee were drawn from all the departments in the FCTA and expected to conclude the tasks in six months.

He assured the committee members of the FCT Minister’s commitment to providing the necessary logistics to ensure the success of the exercise.

Speaking on behalf of the committee members, Galadima noted the need for the FCTA to document all activities, in terms of structures, services, and facilities.

He said that the committee would deliver on its mandate as expected. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Environment , Metro

AMMC gives AEPB 48-hour ultimatum to clean up Abuja

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By Philip Yatai

The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), has given the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) 48-hour ultimatum to clean up Abuja.

The Coordinator of the Council, Chief Felix Obuah, gave the ultimatum after an emergency meeting with management of the board and contractors handling refuse evacuation in Abuja on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was held after the coordinator inspected the state of refuse evacuation in Asokoro District.

Obuah expressed disappointment with the slow pace of refuse evacuation in the district, noting that the nation’s capital should be a model city for cleanliness across Nigeria.

He, thereafter, directed the Director of AEPB, Mr Osi Braimah to ensure that Asokoro was thoroughly cleaned within 48 hours.

He added that the efforts should be extended to other major districts, including Guzape, Maitama, Central Business District, Wuse, and other areas within the Abuja metropolis.

He also directed the director to immediately recall casual workers to accelerate the evacuation of refuse across the city.

“I am tired of receiving calls from residents complaining of how dirty the city has become.

“Today, I was forced to go round major areas of the city to assess the state of refuse collection and what I saw was an eyesore.

“I realised that the contractors engaged to clean the city are no longer doing their jobs and AEPB must do something about it,” he said.

He advised the companies to also within 48 hours, clean up their act, or face the wrath of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, whom he said, was already displeased with the situation.

The coordinator pointed out that the beauty of any city largely depended on its cleanliness.

According to him, Abuja should not only be clean but should also set the benchmark for other cities in the country to follow.

Responding, Braimah assured the coordinator that the board would do as directed. (NAN)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Education , Metro

Patience Jonathan advises female students against prostitution, drug abuse

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By Philip Yatai

Mrs Patience Jonathan, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, has advised schoolgirls against prostitution and drug abuse.

Jonathan gave the advice in Abuja on Monday, at the National Female Students Conference and launching of maiden Magazine tagged, “The Face of Women’s Libbers.”

The event was organised by the National Association of Female Students (ANFS) as part of activities to commemorate the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.

Represented by Mrs Safiya Ogo, Director-General, Women of Change Initiative, the former First Lady noted the involvement of young girls in all kinds of social vices.

She identified some of the ungodly activities as drug abuse, prostitution, girl child trafficking, alcoholism, cultism, cybercrimes, indecent dressing and rituals among others.

Jonathan, adopted as the Grand Matron of ANFS at the event, described the development as “worrisome”, adding that such absurd actions were taking a toll on young girls, particularly female undergraduate students.

“These practices are undoubtedly barriers to the achievement of the goals and aspirations of these girls and women.

“We also have had reports of young girls who are victims of yahoo’ rituals, resulting mostly from the crave for quick wealth.

“This craving for quick wealth can be achieved through hard work and selflessness, while maintaining one’s dignity as a woman,” she said.

Jonathan, therefore, urged the female students to shun prostitution, drug abuse and all manner of vices but instead, be role models with dignity as women, wives and mothers.

She advised the ANFS to embark on a massive campaign to sensitise female students, including the males, to remain focused and law abiding for them to excel in their chosen careers.

“You are not only the future mothers and wives of this country, but also future leaders, businesswomen, heads of parastatals and captains of industries.

“We live in a competitive world, therefore, in preparation for your future role, you must be well equipped and excel in your various professional callings.

“One way to equip our girls ahead of these positions is the girl-child education. This is because education is the key to development,” she said.

Also, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration, stressed the need to celebrate the potential, resilience, and achievements of girls everywhere.

Benjamins-Laniyi, who was also adopted as the Matron of the association in FCT, described girls’ education as the cornerstone of societal progress.

According to her, education unlocks opportunities, breaks cycles of poverty, and fosters inclusive growth.

Similarly, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, founder, Helpline Social Support Initiative, advised female students to continue to raise their voices for change through positive activism.

Ahmadu, however, stressed the need for the students to be serious with their academics and aspire for greatness.

Earlier, the National President of ANFS, Omoniyi Alice, said that the event was organised to discuss the future of female students across the world.

This, according to Alice, will ensure that female students are given every opportunity to succeed.

“We live in a world that is rapidly changing, and it is essential that we adapt our education system to meet these changes.

“As the future leaders of our society, it is crucial that our female students are given every opportunity to excel and be able to compete on a level playing field, free from discrimination or unfair barriers.

“We must also provide our female students with the resources they need to succeed. These include access to quality education, mentorship programmes, and scholarships.

“It is our responsibility as educators and leaders to ensure that our female students have the tools they need to succeed,” she added.

Alice equally called on relevant stakeholders to promote a culture of inclusion and respect for women in schools and universities.

“This means creating an environment where women feel safe and supported, where they are valued for their contributions and their ideas.

“We must also challenge the traditional gender roles that have limited women’s opportunities in the past,” the president said.

On her part, the founder and pioneer president of the association, Safiya Sarki, said that ANSF was established to give female student a voice.

Sarki explained that the move was in response to the male-dominated National Association of Nigerian Students, where only two seats were reserved for females out of the 15 leadership positions in the association.  (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Metro

Taxation: RTEAN urges its members to be law abiding

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has urged its members to be law abiding when conducting their lawful activities in 774 Local Governments in the country.

The association’s Deputy National President, Administration, Amb. Muhammad Bishara, made the call in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

He reiterated the association’s total support and commitment to peaceful co-existence in the country.

“The attention of the National Executive council of Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has been drawn to publication circulating on some online Newspapers.

“The publication alleged that the leadership of the RTEAN in Anambra state threatened to shut down its services in the state if the State Government does not consider its heavy taxation on transporters.”

He said that the position expressed by the leadership of RTEAN in Anambra state did not reflect the modus operandi of the association.

He added that the stands of the leadership was not in line with the Article five (d) , six A2 (f-i) and article 12 (e) that stated only National Executive of the RTEAN had legal and moral justification to make such a decision.

Bishara, therefore, urged the leadership of RTEAN in Anambra state to followed due process and report all matter to its National Headquarters for redress.

“The alleged heavy taxation and harassment of drivers by the Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue should be channels of the RTEAN headquarters for amicable resolution, instead of going to press to voice his angers, ” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Metro

CILT seeks integration of technology in transport infrastructure

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Mrs Mfon Usoro, the President of Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport has urged the Federal Government to integrate technology in transport infrastructure in the country to enhance sustainable and efficient transport systems.

Usoro made the call in her opening remarks at the 2024 Annual National Conference with the Annual General Meeting of the institute in Abuja.

She said technological advancements would transform transport infrastructure, improve efficiency, safety and passenger experience.

The president explained that such technologies include intelligent transportation systems, smart traffic signals, electronic toll collection and road sensors among others.

“Our flagship event continues to provide the platform to interrogate and offer solutions to the challenges of logistics and transport in Nigeria within the context of the nation’s desire.

“ To operate an integrated transport system that offers efficient, reliable, safe, secure and sustainable transportation choices for businesses and individuals.

“Achieving these goals will address the logistics and transport infrastructure deficit highlighted in our past conferences,“ she said.

According to her, issues around integrating technology in transport infrastructure, management and operational efficiency in transportation, the interconnectivity of transport modes, renewable energy and in-depth research with primary data from academia will be discussed.

She observed that attaining a coordinated, collaborative, integrated transport system ought to be a shared responsibility of the ministries in charge of the transport sub-sectors and citizens.

“We can achieve this only if Nigeria has a National Transport Policy. A final Draft of the National Transport Policy was produced in 2022.

“ The Policy Provides for integrated transport planning, operation, implementation and enforcement chapters for each transport mode.

“ With the intention that the respective modes will develop detailed implementation policies that align with the globally agreed policy imperatives, “ she said.

She said the institute was founded in the United Kingdom in 1919 and offered a Royal Charter in 1926.

Also speaking, Mr Segun Obayendo, the President of Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA-NG), advocated sector reform toward passengers’ satisfaction.

According to him, effective policies will fast-tract  genuine development being expected in the transport sector.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the CILT is the leading international professional body for all sectors of the Logistics and Transport Industry which has a presence in over 100 countries.

NAN further reports that the CILT International, headquartered in the UK and the Nigerian branch of CILT International was established in 1958.

NAN also reports that the draft NLTP provides a holistic overview of Nigeria’s land transportation infrastructure, encompassing rail, road and pipeline networks, as well as their intermodal connections with inland waterways, seaports and airports.

It presents strategic responses to key issues such as climate change, capacity building, inclusivity and implementation strategies aimed at optimising interactions between various transport modes. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Metro

Panel assesses 396 entries for Home Garden Competition in FCT

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By Philip Yatai

The Panel of Judges for the “Every Home A Garden” national competition, initiated by the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has begun assessment of 396 entries in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, FCT Administration, said at the inauguration of the exercise in Abuja on Wednesday, that the winner would go home with N20 million prize.

Members of the panel are Mr Francis Adumoye from the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA); Dr Dayo Kusa, a consultant and Mrs Claire Adelabu-Abdulrazak of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

Others are Mrs Uwem Ekomabasi, from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and Mrs Chalya Kumzhi, from FCT Parks and Recreation Department.

Benjamins-Laniyi, who was represented by Hajiya Asmau Mukhtar, the Permanent Secretary in the secretariat, said that the competition was under the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).

She said the FCTA was doing all it can to ensure full participation of FCT women in the competition.

She said the competition was being organised to encourage women to grow a garden within their home premises for sustainable access to fresh food for the family.

The initiative, she said, would also increase household’s interest in farming, using any available space in the house.

This, according to her, will trigger a gradual revitalisation of Nigeria’s vast agricultural endowment, beginning from the home, with women taking the lead across the country.

The mandate secretary, who is the Coordinator of the RHI in FCT, said the panel of judges were carefully selected for their knowledge and expertise in the area.

She urged the panel to be unbiased in assessing the entries so that, “we have the best entries that would represent FCT and make us proud at the national level.

“Those who scaled through the first assessment would proceed to the next phase of the competition.”

In her remarks, Ms Deborah Bonire, Coordinator of the competition in the secretariat, expressed confidence in the capacity of the panelists to deliver on their tasks.

Bonire said the competition committee has registered a total of 396 entries across the FCT.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition was introduced in July to encourage women across the 36 states of the country to practice home gardening. (NAN)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

Defence/Security , Metro

CDS seeks Wike’s support for Africa Military Games

209 total views today

Support

By Philip Yatai

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chirstopher Musa, has sought the support of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike for the upcoming  Africa Military Games.

Musa, who made the appeal when he visited Wike in Abuja on Wednesday, said that 40 countries would participate in the second edition of the one-week event.

He said that the event scheduled for November, would take place in FCT, Abuja, adding that Nigeria would be the second country to host the grand event.

Musa said  the games would showcase Nigeria and the FCT in great light to the world, and assure the global community that “Nigeria is safe.

“Most people, when you travel out, the impression they give about Nigeria is that the country is very hostile; it’s a hostile environment.

“That when you come in, there are a lot of killings, but Nigeria is more secured than most of these countries.

“Here, the press enjoys so much freedom, so everything is being reported, and that is why people think that Nigeria is unsafe.

“We all know that Nigeria is safe, and Abuja is one of the safest places that anybody will ever live in, and we thank you for that sir.”

The CDS said that as the chief host, the Armed Forces would leverage on the FCT minister to ensure the success of the games.

He added that the defence would hold a world conference to announce the planned event to the world and wants the minister to lead the conference as the landlord of FCT.

The military chief expressed confidence that with the support of the minister, the event would be of international standard.

He commended Wike for the ongoing transformation in the nation’s capital, and promised continued support to ensure FCT continues to grow without threats.

Responding, Wike commended the CDS for selecting Abuja to host the event and showcase the nation’s capital to the world.

“This is a welcome development considering the impact it will have on economic activities of the city.

“It will also show to the world that FCT is safe.

“Therefore, we have no choice but to give you all the necessary support, because it is our city that will host the event,” the minister said.

The minister assigned his Chief of Staff, Director, Security Services Department and his Senior Special Assistant on Administration, to work with the CDS team to work out the needed support.

He commended the CDS for the improved security across the country, particularly curbing the activities of insurgents.(NAN)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

Entertainment , Metro

Zuma Film Festival veritable platform for cultural exchange – FCT Minister

206 total views today

By Philip Yatai

Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has described the annual Zuma International Film Festival as a vibrant platform for collaboration, inspiration and cultural exchange.

Mahmoud stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, while addressing a news conference to unveil the 2024 edition of the festival and logo, scheduled for Dec. 1 to Dec. 5, in Abuja.

She said that the 2024 edition with the theme, “Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future”, would showcase the diverse narratives that resonate with the world’s shared humanity.

She added that the festival would remind people of the power of film to challenge perceptions and spark change.

“This festival is not just a showcase of cinematic creativity. It is a vibrant platform that builds collaboration, inspiration and cultural exchange.

“In a world increasingly shaped by visual storytelling, our contributions are vital in bridging the culture and igniting conversation.

“Therefore, let us embrace this opportunity to honour our collective passion for the arts, support one another and celebrate the remarkable talent that each of us brings to the screen,” she said.

The minister expressed hope that the festival would continue to create lasting impact.

Dr Jumai Ahmadu, Director, Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, FCT Administration, expressed confidence that with the support of the FCT Minister of State, the 2024 edition would be bigger and better.

Ahmadu, who was represented by Ms Catherine Allison, Assistant Director in the unit, added that “together, we will pave the way for a vibrant future in film making and storytelling.

“Let’s continue to inspire one another as we celebrate the power of film.”

Unveiling the new Zuma Logo, Mr Mikyel Parish, a consultant with Zuff, said that the 2024 festival would be interesting and intriguing.

‘This year’s festival will be different. It holds a lot of great things in stock,” Parish said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

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