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 Politics › Minister Flags Off Construction Of Temporary Access Road To Saburi by Dannupawa(op): 9:42pm On Feb 21, 2024 |
…PLEDGES THE REHABILITATION, AND EXPANSION OF GWAGWA/KARMO/DEI-DEI ROAD 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has flagged off the construction of a 5km access road in Saburi 1 and 2 communities in the Abuja Municipal Area Council(AMAC) of the FCT 2. The road work commences from the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX) to old Keffi road, near the Dei-Dei International Market in Abuja. 3. The FCT Minister, during the flag-off exercise, said the road project is part of the six important roads nominated for construction by each of the six Area Council Chairmen in the FCT, as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Agenda. 4. Barr. Wike had earlier flagged off the construction of the 5km Naharati-Ukya River-Unguwar Hausawa road with three span bridge in Abaji Area Council as well as the 11 km Yangoji/SukukU Ebo Road in Kwali Area Council in addition TO the 5km Dual Carriageway from Tipper Garage to LEA Secretariat in Kuje Area Council. 5. Other rural roads also flagged off by the Minister include the 9km Paikon Kore to Ibwa road in Gwagwalada Area Council as well as the 7.2 kilometer Gaba Tokulo road with two-span bridge in Bwari Area Council. 6. The Minister said the construction of these rural roads in the FCT Area Councils would be completed before the end of the year, adding that the President has mandated him and the Minister of State to do everything possible to give hope back to the people of the FCT. 7. The Minister who thanked the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, Christopher Maikalangu, the traditional rulers and the entire people of the Council for coming out to support the road construction project, also pledged that the FCT Administration will rehabilitate and expand the Karmo/Gwagwa/Dei-Dei road as requested by the AMAC Chairman. 8. According to the Minister, “The Chairman of AMAC has said that before now, this road has been a burden. The member representing this constituency has also alluded to that. What it meant then was that you had all lost hope. Now, because of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, we are bringing back that hope to you”. 9. He said, “I have told the Director in charge of Satellite Town Development Department that as we are meeting on Friday to finalize our budget, you must give this road priority for AMAC”. 10. Explaining that the AMAC flag-off marks the last in the first series of rural road construction, the Minister also disclosed that the FCT Administration will return to the Area Councils again in the next few months to flag off the construction of one more road in each of the six Area Councils of the FCT. 11. He said, “Mr. President has emphasized that our people in the rural areas must be given attention because they constitute a large part of the population. So, it is not only where the elites are living but also where the poor ones are, so that we will be able to reduce the level of insecurity and make economic activities thrive and also help our farmers to bring in their goods”. 12. Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman, AMAC, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, commended the FCT Minister for his interest and dedication to the development of the FCT and making it a better place for all law-abiding residents. 13. On the construction of the 5km temporary access road in Saburi community, Hon. Maikalangu said that it is long-awaited by residents of Saburi community and commended the minister for his pragmatic leadership, adding that the road project would trigger socio-economic activities and other developmental strides around the area. 14. The AMAC Chairman pledged to always follow in the footsteps of the Minister by using the available resources to continue the good work in AMAC and augment the efforts of the FCT Administration. 15. Giving an overview of the 5km Saburi 1 and 2 communities access road, the Director overseeing the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD), Dr Olusegun Olusa said the scope of work consists of the construction of 5km asphaltic concrete road on 8 meter carriageway, which also include site clearance and earthworks, reinforced concrete pipes box culverts of various sizes, reinforced concrete U-channel line drains, 150mm thick crushed stone base course, 50mm asphaltic wearing course and expansion of an existing box culvert river bridge with three spans. 16. The Director assured that the department will do its best in the supervision of the project and ensure its timely completion. 17. Also speaking, the Sarkin Jiwa, HRH Alhaji Idris Musa MFR commended the efforts of the FCT Minister and called for the construction of more rural roads, as well as the completion of other abandoned projects by the FCT Administration. 18. In his remarks, the Chairman Senate committee on FCT Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, Sen. David Jimkuta said the National Assembly has keyed into the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President and will support the FCT Administration in any way possible. He also called on FCT residents to support the agenda of the President to make the FCT a better place for all. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 21/02/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/500 PHOTO CAPTIONS 1. L-R: FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, Chairman, AMAC Hon. Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman Senate Committee on FCT Area Council and Ancillary Matters, Senator David Jimkuta and Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda during the flag off of the construction of the Saburi 1 and 2 access roads on Wednesday 2.FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike flagging off the construction of the Saburi 1 and 2 access roads on Wednesday 3. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike being given a traditional title during the flag flag-off of the construction of the Saburi 1 and 2 access roads on Wednesday 4 Aerial View of the Saburi 1 and 2 road under construction. 5 Residents of Saburi in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, showing their support for the FCT Minister during the flag-off of the construction of the Saburi 1 and 2 areas of AMAC on Wednesday. 1 Like
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| Politics › Wike Flags Of Construction Naharati-ukya River-unguwar Hausawa Road In Abaji by Dannupawa(op): 9:36pm On Feb 20, 2024 |
…PROMISES MORE ROAD PROJECTS IN FCT AREA COUNCILS 1. In continuation of the provision of road infrastructure in the six Area Councils of the FCT, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 flagged off the construction of 5KM Naharati-River Ukya-Unguwan Hausawa Road in Abaji Area Council of the territory. 2. The FCT Minister said the exercise was in keeping with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to construct at least 5-kilometer roads in each of the six Area Councils of the FCT, under the Renewed Hope Agenda. 3. Barr. Wike who had earlier flagged off the construction of roads in Gwagwalada, Bwari, Kuje, and Kwali Area Councils, said the construction of rural roads was to ensure that development is not concentrated only in the city centre but also spread to the Area Councils. 4. He added that the construction of rural roads will also help to address the challenges of insecurity in the FCT, reduce rural-urban migration as well as promote food security in the nation’s capital. 5. According to the Minister, “One of the ways to fight insecurity is to provide good roads so that security agencies will have access to go and deal with those people who said they are criminals. If you don’t have good roads, can you go to the farms? So, provision of good roads will help to improve our food security”. Speaking further, the Minister said, “When we fight the bandits, our fathers, our mothers will be able to go to the farm. When good road is provided, our farmers will go to the farm and bring what they have produced and that is the directive Mr. President has given to us that development should not only be concentrated in the city”. 7. The Minister who also noted that the Area Council Chairmen were directed to nominate one key road for construction in each of the Area Councils, assured that all the road projects that have been started would be completed this year. 8. Barr. Wike also disclosed that the request by the FCT traditional rulers for the construction of more rural roads in the FCT Area Councils will be addressed in FCT’s 2024 statutory budget. 9. Reflecting on the economic challenges in the country, the FCT Minister appealed to FCT residents and other Nigerians to exercise patience, assuring that the situation will soon turn around for the better, with steps being taken by the government. 10. The Minister observed that there is already a marked improvement in the security situation in the territory with the steps taken by the FCT Administration and also commended the FCT traditional rulers for their support and for working in synergy with the Area Council Chairmen to fight insecurity. 11. He assured that the FCT Administration will do more, with the cooperation of security agencies, to rid the nation’s capital of crime and criminality. 12. Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Abaji Area Council, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Abubakar, described the Minister as capable, tested, and trusted and commended him for adding value to the lives of the people of Abaji. 13. He said the 5-kilometer Naharati-River Ukya-Unguwan Hausawa road, when completed, will improve access to markets, schools as well as healthcare and other essential services, adding that it will also boost agricultural activities and the overall economic growth of the area and invariably, the FCT. 14. Hon. Abubakar commended the efforts of the FCT Minister in making the project a reality and called on the people of the Abaji Area Council to remain united and see the project through to its completion. 15. The Director overseeing the Satellite Towns Development Department, Olusegun Olusa, explained that the scope of work for the project, would consist of the construction of 5-kilometer asphaltic concrete finished road on 8-meter carriageway, including site clearance and earthworks, reinforced concrete pipe and box culverts of various sizes, reinforced concrete and u-channel line drains, asphaltic wearing course, 3 span bridge among other ancillary facilities. 16. On his part, the Ona of Abaji, HRH, Adamu Baba Yunusa said the FCT Minister’s focus on road construction is not surprising, judging by his track record in infrastructure development. He prayed that God will continue to grant the Minister more wisdom and good health to continue the good works he is doing in the FCT. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE FCT MINISTER) 20/02/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/499 PHOTO CAPTION 1. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, and the Chairman, Abaji Area Council, Hon. Abdullahi Abubakar during the flag-off of the construction of the Naharati Ukya-Unguwan Hausawa road in Abaji on Tuesday 2 HRH Ona of Abaji Alh. Adamu Baba Yunusa making his address during the flag-off of the construction of the Naharati Ukya-Unguwan Hausawa road in Abaji on Tuesday 3 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, reading his address during the flag-off of the construction of the Naharati Ukya-Unguwan Hausawa road in Abaji on Tuesday 4 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike waving following the flag off of the construction of the Naharati Ukya-Unguwan Hausawa road in Abaji on Tuesday.
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| Politics › Encroachment Into Technology Village Site: Fcta To Remove Illegal Squatters by Dannupawa(op): 10:00pm On Feb 19, 2024 |
...GOVT HAS VISION TO MAKE IT NIGERIA’S SILICON VALLEY- SCIENCE AND TECH MINISTER 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has said that the FCT Administration will take immediate action to remove illegal settlements encroaching into the Abuja Technology Village (ATV) in Pyakassa, along the Umar Musa Yar’Adua expressway, Abuja. 2. Barr. Wike made this statement in Abuja on Monday when he paid an inspection visit to the Abuja Technology Village, in the company of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji. 3. The FCT Minister who observed that the original inhabitants encroaching into the ATV have been compensated as far back as 2015, blamed the lack of perimeter fencing around the Technology Park for the continued encroachment. 4. He said he would direct the Development Control Department of the FCTA, to give an ultimatum to the illegal settlements to leave the area, warning that no amount of campaign will stop the FCT Administration from doing what is right. 5. According to the Minister, “If you don’t take action, people will not believe that anything is possible. I will call the development control and give them an ultimatum for these people to leave. They have been compensated since 2015”. 6. “We must quickly see what we can do to relocate these people since they have been compensated. We are going to take immediate action. I can tell you that. I urge those who are settling here to know that we will not hesitate to move them out. No amount of campaign will stop us from doing the right thing”. 7. The Minister who expressed surprise at the lack of activities at the technology village despite the provision of road infrastructure, said he invited the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology to inspect the project with him, to commence active preparation to attract investors into the technology village. 8. He also assured that the government has the political will to develop the technology village and urged the Ag. Managing Director of ATV, Mr Isa Yusuf Shafeek to set up his office on the site to encourage investors. 9. He said, “I was thinking that there are a lot of activities going on here, not knowing that it’s just empty land. The roads have been provided and that ought to interest investors. It depends on what you have been doing since. 10. “But you don’t even have an office here to tell people that you are here. So, if an investor is coming, he is coming to meet an empty land and you are renting an office. You must find a way to erect an office where you know that this is where you come to work every day. That is what will bring people here. 11. “Let us know what it will take to erect a befitting office so that you will leave that place you are renting because if you calculate, the money you spent renting, you would have used that money to start doing something good”. 12. Speaking earlier, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, said the government has a vision to create a replica of the London Technology City as well as the Silicon Valley of the United States in the Abuja Technology Village. 13. He said the Abuja Technology Village will house a humongous infrastructure and technology in the next couple of years, adding that companies in America were already showing interest. 14. According to the Minister, “Even as we speak, there are companies in America that came about a month ago and want to put in 200 megawatts of solar power here. They want to start right away and there are so many other companies that want to start right away. 15. “But as this encroachment continues, we have to stop it somewhere to see how we can take over, either compensate them or demolish it because we can’t have this kind of thing here”. 16. Also speaking, the Acting MD, Abuja Technology Village said people from the settlements around the technology village were causing environmental degradation with the dumping of refuse and mining of laterite stones inside the technology village and called for the immediate removal of the settlements. 17. He said, “The indigenous settlers have been compensated since around 2015. But because they don’t see any barrier, they keep coming back. This is just one. The other one is environmental degradation, the dumping of refuse. Some come to mine laterite stones”. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 19/02/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/497 PHOTO CAPTIONS 1. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (Middle), Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Innovation, Science and Tech Mrs Monilola Udoh and other stakeholders listening to the Ag MD Abuja Technology Village (ATV) Mr Isa Yusuf Shafeek (1st left), during the Ministers' visit to the ATV on Monday. 2. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (middle) flanked by the Hon Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji (2nd left) and the Head, Estate and Construction Management of the A Abuja Technology Village (ATV), Mr Muhammed Ali and other stakeholders during the Ministers' visit to the ATV on Monday 3 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (right) in a handshake with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji during the visit of both Ministers to the Abuja Technology Village on Monday 4. Some of the buildings encroaching on the Abuja Technology Village site in Pyakassa, Abuja.
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| Politics › Wike Places N20 Million Bounty On Fleeing Kidnappers by Dannupawa(op): 11:00pm On Feb 14, 2024 |
1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has offered a N20 million reward to the FCT Police Command for the arrest of two suspected kidnappers at large. 2. The FCT Minister made the offer during his maiden visit to the FCT Police Command in Abuja on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, where some arrested criminals, including kidnappers and one chance robbers were paraded by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Benedict Igwe. 3. Barr. Wike who was informed that the FCT Police Command was on the trail of two suspected kidnappers at large, following the arrests of their wives when they attempted to collect ransom payments for kidnapped victims in the FCT, urged the police to go after the criminals wherever they may be hiding and make sure they are apprehended. 4. He said, “Let me put money on their head. Wherever they are, put your men out there. I will give them N20 million. Go and fish them out wherever they are. I want to see them alive or dead.” 5. The FCT Minister also commended the FCT Commissioner of Police and his men for their efforts in addressing the security challenges in the FCT, saying that there has been marked improvement in the security situation in the FCT since the new CP assumed office. 6. He assured that the FCTA, with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will provide operational vehicles and other communication gadgets to the FCT Police Command in the next few days to improve their crime-fighting capabilities. 7. He said, “Let me assure you that we will do everything humanly possible to provide you with all that you require to fight crime and criminality in this FCT. We believe that in the next few days, you will have more vehicles, you will have more communication gadgets that will enable you and your men to face these criminals”. 8. Stressing that information is key, Barr. Wike also called on members of the public to see the police as their friends and provide credible intelligence that will lead to the arrest of criminals, even as he urged the police to improve their intelligence-gathering ability. 9. The Minister also charged the press to report the positive achievements of the security agencies, saying it was wrong to focus only on the negatives. 10.He said, “Try and publicize the positive aspects of what they are doing, not everyday negative because if FCT is not safe, you as journalists too, you can’t be here. So, we need a safe environment for you to be able to carry out your own job”. 11.Earlier in his remarks, the FCT Police Commissioner disclosed that the operatives of Utako Divisional Headquarters, in concert with the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the FCT Police Command, arrested seven (7) wanted kidnapping suspects, including two women. 12.The Police Commissioner said the apprehended suspects were responsible for some of the heinous crimes in the FCT, including kidnappings and killing of 14 victims between November last year and January 2024 before their arrests. 13.He said the suspects were arrested in Pyakassa, Tudun Wada, and Ketti village, and held in connection with the kidnapping of 14 notable persons in the Federal Capital Territory. 14.He said the police also recovered N9 million cash, purportedly paid as ransom to the kidnappers as well as guns, machetes, amulets, bulletproof vests and a locally fabricated walkie-talkie, which the criminals used for their operations. 15.According to the CP, “These kidnappers, who have been giving FCT a sleepless night and on the wanted list of the command for a long time, have now been arrested. 16.“They are responsible for the kidnapping of five victims in Federal Mortgage Housing Estate, Kabusa. 3 persons at Ketti village: Fulani residents of Alhaji Sani, a woman and her gateman in Kabusa Estate, as well as one Mr Sunday Zakwai and four others. 17. “The kidnapping gang equally killed the district head while two staff were kidnapped at Defence Estate Kabusa by the gang,” CP Igwe said. 18.Similarly, the CP disclosed that a gang of armed robbers and one-chance criminals who have perpetrated several one-chance attacks on unsuspecting members of the public, causing pain and injuries, have also been arrested. 19.He said the operatives of the FCT Police Command attached to Mabushi Divisional Headquarters, in the continued fight against criminality, arrested eight (  notorious armed robbery suspects terrorizing FCT.20.He thanked the FCT Minister for his assistance towards the success achieved so far by the FCT Police Command and pledged that the Command will continue to take the fight to criminals and in order to stamp criminality out of the FCT. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR PRESS (OFFICE OF THE FCT MINISTER) FCTA/ODP/PR/495 14/02/2024 PHOTO CAPTION 1. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (left) with the FCT Commissioner of Police Benedict Igwe during the Minister's visit to the FCT Police Command on Wednesday 2.FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike making his remarks during his visit to the FCT Police Command on Wednesday 3 Suspected criminals arrested by the FCT Police Command paraded during the FCT Minister's visit to the FCT Police Command on Wednesday 4 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike inspecting a Guard of Honour during his visit to the FCT Police Command on Wednesday. 5 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike listens to a suspected kidnapper during his visit to the FCT Police Command on Wednesday.
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| Politics › We Will Not Accept Variation Of Contracts – Wike by Dannupawa(op): 9:53pm On Feb 14, 2024 |
1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has once again reiterated that the FCT Administration will not accept any form of variation of contracts awarded by the FCTA. 2. The FCT Minister made this known when he carried out a routine inspection of ongoing projects in the FCT that are scheduled for completion by May this year. 3. The Minister who spoke against the backdrop of a request by Setraco Construction Company for variation of the contract for the construction of the Southern Parkway from Christian Centre to Ring Road 1, to include provision for streetlights, warned that the FCTA will not entertain such requests. 4. Barr. Wike noted that the FCT Administration had earlier agreed with contractors on the funding pattern that will enable them to complete ongoing projects in the FCT by May this year, adding that the Administration has also made payments as agreed. 5. He said the request for variation was therefore not tenable and stressed that the FCTA may be forced to blacklist contractors if they fail to complete the project within schedule. 6. According to the Minister, “When I came on board, I had to call most of these companies and I asked them, would you be able to complete some of these projects so that as part of Mr. President’s one year, it will be inaugurated and they all agreed. We agreed on the funding pattern and I can tell you authoritatively, we have not failed”. 7. “In fact, as far as that road is concerned (construction of Southern Parkway), we have paid not less than 97 percent. So, when I asked about the streetlight, he talked about variation. Of course, you know I will never accept that because we funded the projects very well without any failure on our own part. 8. “So, I’m still being categorically clear, there cannot be any variation on that project and if they don’t complete it on time, I’m going to blacklist the company. That is the truth of the matter. Nobody will toy with us; nobody will try to outsmart us. We are not going to accept it. Of course, the Managing Director was there and he knows we are serious about it”. 9. Other project sites visited by the Minister include the Provision of Engineering Infrastructure to Guzape Lot II, Provision of roads and engineering infrastructure to the new layout and Diplomatic area as Phase II Contract of the ongoing Guzape Lot II District Infrastructure, as well as the full scope development of the Arterial Road N 20 from Northern Parkway to the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX) also known as the Kubwa Expressway. 10.During the visits, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress of work and assured that the projects would be completed by May this year to mark the President’s one-year in office. 11.The Minister further noted that the projects, when completed, will change the landscape of the FCT and ease road traffic in the city centre. 12.According to the Minister, “We saw what Setraco is doing (Southern Parkway from Christian Centre to Ring Road I). It’s quite comprehensive and that will change the landscape of that area and I’m happy with the quality of the job that the company is carrying out. 13.“Then we went to Guzape where Gilmor is doing. If you look at the Diplomatic area, it’s quite interesting. I’m sure people will like to live there. It’s a hilly area and it’s quite interesting the nature of infrastructure that Gilmor is providing. 14.“We then went to Guzape II where all of us climbed and saw the blasting of the rocks to pave the way for the road. I had never taken that look before. It's to appreciate the enormity of the job. But to the glory of God, the company has committed itself that they will finish by May, and again we are happy. 15.“Then we are now in N20. You can also see the quality of work they are doing, the same Gilmor. For me it’s a thing to be happy”. 16.The Minister also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the support to the FCT Administration and assured that the FCTA will carry out the assignment it has been given by the President to his satisfaction. 17.He added that the FCTA will work round the clock to meet the scheduled completion date, adding “I strongly believe we will meet up to time and I’m happy with the quality of the job”. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) FCTA/ODP/PR/496 14/02/2024 PHOTO CAPTION 1. Construction works of the Southern Parkway 2. Provision of Engineering Infrastructure to Guzape Lot II 3 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike during his inspection of road construction projects in Abuja on Wednesday 4 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike (3rd right) with the ES, FCDA, Engr Shehu Ahmed (2nd right) and other officials of the FCTA and officials of Setraco Construction company during his inspection of road construction projects in Abuja on Wednesday 5 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (wearing baseball hat) flanked by FCTA officials during his inspection of road construction projects in Abuja on Wednesday
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| Politics › Wike Expresses Satisfaction With Quality Of Ongoing Projects by Dannupawa(op): 9:37am On Feb 14, 2024 |
...URGES RESIDENTS TO PAY THEIR TAXES, GROUND RENT …THREATENS TO REVOKE LAND TITLES OF GROUND RENT DEFAULTERS 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has expressed satisfaction with the quality of work on ongoing projects within Abuja city and reassured that they would be completed by May this year. 2. The Minister made this known during his routine inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in the Federal Capital City on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. 3. Project sites visited by the Minister included the official residence of the Vice President and the Rehabilitation and Expansion of the Outer Southern Expressway from Villa Round About to Ring Road I, and the B6, B12 road projects. 4. The Minister noted that road projects form part of the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and assured that FCT residents will get the best. 5. According to the Minister, “I’m very much impressed with their quality, and for me, the people deserve the best and that’s why we take our time to come and see actually what is going on, and that way they will also know that we are also serious, not just telling us that things are moving on very well. 6. Barr. Wike who noted that there had been a little setback due to the recent construction workers warning strike, however assured that the road projects would be ready by May this year judging by the pace of work and the advantage of the weather. 7. According to the Minister, “ We are quite optimistic that with the speed of work and taking advantage of the weather, we believe that by May, these projects will be ready. Of course, you know they didn’t work for three days because of the construction workers’ three-day warning strike. That alone took a lot of things out of them. But we believe they will not have a repeat of that incident again”. 8. On the effects of inflation on the cost of ongoing road projects in the FCT, Barr. Wike disclosed that the FCT Administration as a policy tries to pay the contractors as at when due to discourage the possibility of variation of contracts. 9. “We don’t allow variation because we always try to pay as at when due, so the issue of variation does not come in. I know every contractor would want to have their money as quickly as possible. So, there is this trust in us that we are going to pay and we have been paying. Whatever funds we have gotten, we try to pay them without wasting time and that’s why we are succeeding”, he explained 10. The Minister however used the opportunity to call on FCT residents to pay their taxes and ground rents, saying that the government relies heavily on tax revenue to finance infrastructure projects. 11. He said residents needed to understand that without the payment of taxes, the government would not have the funds to carry out critical infrastructure projects and urged them to pay their taxes, especially now when they can see how the money is being expended. 12. Barr. Wike also warned that those who continue to default in the payment of their ground rents in the FCT risk having their land titles revoked. 13. He said, “Again, they want roads, they want a good environment, they want light everywhere. The government does not print money. The government is to tax people and then use that money to improve the area. So, I will always plead with everybody that they should try as much as possible to pay their ground rent”. 14. .“We will always plead with everybody that they should try as much as possible to pay their ground rent. We have published the last set, for those who are still owning the one of 2023, we gave them till the 14th of December last year. But we are human we believe that things may not be as good as people expect. So, we have extended it for another two weeks, after which we have no choice but to revoke the title document, if you don’t pay. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) FCTA/ODP/PR/494 13/02/2024 PHOTO CAPTIONS 1. The Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmed (M) leading the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (L) and the Director, Public Building, Arch. Adebowale Ademo and other senior officials of the FCTA on inspection tour of ongoing projects in the FCT on Tuesday. 2. (L-R) Former Senator representing the FCT, Sen. Philip Aduda, FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmed and Director, Public Building, Arch. Adebowale Ademo during the tour of ongoing projects in the FCT on Tuesday 3. A contractor at the site of one of the ongoing projects explaining the scope of work done to the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (2nd R) and the former Senator representing the FCT, Sen. Philip Aduda as well as senior officials of the FCTA during the inspection tour by the Minister on Tuesday. 4. The Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmed (M) leading the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (L) and the Director, Public Building, Arch. Adebowale Ademo and other senior officials of the FCTA on inspection tour of ongoing projects in the FCT on Tuesday. 1 Like
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| Politics › Wike Flags Off Construction Of 11km Road In Kwali by Dannupawa(op): 9:21am On Feb 08, 2024 |
…REITERATES COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPING THE RURAL AREAS ...CONFERRED WITH TRADITIONAL TITLE OF KAURAN KWALI 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has reiterated the commitment of the FCT Administration to the development of the rural communities in the FCT. 2. The Minister made this commitment when he flagged-off the construction of 11km Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo Road in Kwali Area Council. The FCT Minister who noted that governance means nothing if the needs of the people at the rural level are not met, assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is also fully committed to the welfare of the rural dwellers. 3. He said he was directed by the President to interface directly with the rural communities when the issues of insecurity arose, adding that the President has also directed him to provide the necessary infrastructure, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, to bring back the lost hope of the people. 4. According to the Minister, “Mr. President has said you don’t need to lose hope. I’m bringing back that hope for you. And how is he bringing back that hope? We must have to touch the rural areas because these are the people who felt they have been abandoned, who felt they are not going to get anything from government”. 5. “So, Mr. President said no, you don’t need to lose hope. I am here. I’m going to give you back your hope. I’m going to give you back your infrastructure. When the issue of insecurity came, he directed that I must interface with the people to let them know that he is there for you. He will not abandon you at this point in time”. 6. The Minister who also thanked the Yangoji Community in Kwali for coming out in large numbers to support the road construction project, urged them to take ownership and defend the project to the last. 7. The Minister also assured that all abandoned projects in Kwali Area Council under the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) would be completed, adding that the FCT Administration has also identified 24 schools for rehabilitation in the six Area Councils. 8. Barr. Wike while also assuring that no project would be abandoned in the FCT under the administration of President Tinubu, pledged that the FCT Administration will continue to interface with FCT residents to better understand their needs. 9. He said, “FCT people, this is your own turn to benefit. We will not be tired of coming to meet you from time to time. In fact, if there was anyway to relocate and stay with you and understand how you feel, we will do it. 10. Also speaking on the effects of the economic reforms of the Federal Government, the Minister expressed confidence that the situation will soon turn around for the better and called for patience, understanding and continued support of the people for the government. 11. “Continue to support the Area Councils, continue to support Asiwaju’s Administration so that all the promises he has made, he will be able to fulfill them. Continue to pray for him for God to give him the strength, the health and the wisdom because it is not easy”. 12. The FCT Minister also stressed the need for cooperation between the FCTA and the six Area Councils, urging them to set aside their political differences and provide good governance for the interest of the people. 13. He said, “I don’t care where you belong to. All I care is how we are going to work together to make the lives of our people to be better and that is why we are here. I’m happy I’m working with all the Area Council Chairmen. I’ve never asked them one day which party do you belong to because I don’t care. All I care, are you doing what will make the people happy? If you are, then you are my friend. If you are not doing anything and then you say you are in the same party with me, I will turn my face because you must make people to be happy”. 14. Speaking on the availability of funds for contract awards in the FCT, the Minister revealed that contractors in the FCT no longer wait for mobilization before moving to the sites, due to the renewed confidence they now have in the FCT Administration. 15. On the efforts of government to tackle the security challenges in the FCT, the FCT Minister who was also conferred with the title of Kauran Kwali assured that he will continue to lead the battle against insecurity in the FCT and warned that criminals in the nation’s capital would soon meet their waterloo. 16. He Said, “You have an opportunity now to repent. If not, I’ve told the security agencies to send you where you are supposed to be”. 17. Speaking earlier, the Chairman, Kwali Area Council, Hon. Danladi Chiya, who is also the ALGON Chairman, thanked the Minister for the project and called for the completion of previously abandoned projects in the Council. 18. Hon. Chiya also disclosed that the road which will lead to Kuje Area Council, will, on completion make it easy for farmers to transport their goods to neighbouring Area Councils as well as enhance security in the council. 19. Giving the overview of the project, the coordinator, STDD, Olusegun Olusa, recalled that the FCT Administration had earlier flagged off the construction of the 7.2 kilometer Paikon Kore-Ibwa road in Gwagwalada, in addition to the 9km Gaba-Tokulo road in Bwari as well as a 5km dual carriageway in Kuje area Council, adding that the rural communities in the FCT are now beginning to feel the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 20. He said the scope of work for the Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road will consist of the construction an 11km asphaltic road on 8 meter carriageway which also include site clearance and earthwork, reinforced concrete pipe culverts of various sizes, 150mm thick crushed stone-base course, among others. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER) 07/02/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/493 PHOTOS 1. FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyemso Wike(l) and the Chairman, Kwali area council, Hon. Danladi Chiya(r) during the flag off of construction work for the Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road in Kwali area council of the FCT on Wednesday 2. L-R) Former Senator representing the FCT in the National Assembly, Sen. Philip Aduda, FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike and Chairman, Kwali area council. Hon. Danladi Chiya shortly after the Minister was conferred with the traditional title of Kauran Kwali during the flag off of construction work for the Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road in Kwali area council of the FCT on Wednesday 3. FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (l) being decorated with the traditional title of Kauran Kwali during the flag off of construction work for the Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road in Kwali area council of the FCT on Wednesday 4. FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, giving his speech at the flag off of construction work for the Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road in Kwali area council of the FCT on Wednesday 5. FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, in a construction equipment waving at residents of Kwali as he flagged off construction work for the Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road in Kwali area council of the FCT on Wednesday. 5 Likes
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| Politics › Wike Flags Off The Resurfacing Of 182 Roads In Maitama, Garki, Utako Districts by Dannupawa(op): 8:52pm On Feb 06, 2024 |
...Says all projects must be completed before May 2024 10 Likes
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| Politics › Fct Minister Flags Off Construction Of Dual Carriageway In Kuje by Dannupawa(op): 9:25pm On Feb 05, 2024 |
…Says renewed hope agenda is working in the FCT …Warns contractor against failure ...Gets third traditional title 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has flagged off the construction of a 5km dual carriageway in Kuje Area Council of the FCT. 2. Barrister Wike, during the flag-off exercise on Monday, February 5, 2024, said the road project is part of efforts to rekindle the hope of the people and reassure them that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu means well for the FCT. 3. The FCT Minister who had earlier flagged off the construction of the 7.2 kilometer Paikon Kore-Ibwa road in Gwagwalada Area Council, as well as the 9km Gaba- Tokula road in Bwari Area Council, attributed the achievements to the support of the President. 4. He said the FCT Administration has been lucky to have the support of the President, who is sparing nothing to ensure that all residents reap the dividends of democracy, adding that the FCTA has no excuse not to perform. 5. According to the Minister, “I want to say that Mr. President is fully in support of us and his mandate is very clear to the Hon. Minister of State and my humble self. When you people are saying that the Minister of State and my humble self are working, it’s because we have a President who gives us anything we want. He has given us the support and so we have no excuses to give but to let the people know that Mr. President is behind everything we are doing. Every request we have made, Mr. President has always given to us. So, for us, we don’t have any excuse not to do what we are supposed to do”. 6. Barr. Wike who also assured of the availability of funds to carry out the road projects, therefore charged the contractor to complete them within the specified time, adding that excuses will not be accepted. 7. He said, “If you take our money, you must do our road. There is no grammar there. I cannot be Minister and you collect our money and say you won’t do the job. For me and the Hon. Minister of State, we don’t have time for dry season, we don’t have time for rainy season. If you collect our money under rainy season, you must also work under the rainy season. You can’t keep our money in the bank, making interest and coming to tell us now is rainy season. Give us back our money, then when dry season comes, we give you the money.” 8. The Minister also reassured that all abandoned projects in the FCT Area Councils that were awarded by the FCT Administration would have to be completed, to ensure that they impact positively on the people and preserve the resources of government. 9. Barrister Wike while thanking the National Assembly for its support for the FCT, also disclosed that provisions have been included in the FCT’s 2024 statutory budget for the renovation of schools and hospitals in the FCT. 10.He said, “We are not only doing roads. Very soon, in the next one week or two, we are going to flag off the total renovation of not less than 25 schools, we are going to do that. So, we are not just talking about roads. We are also talking about schools. 11.“We are also going to come back to most of our hospitals that have been abandoned. Take for example, the Utako hospital that has not been completed, the Gwagwalada Hospital, we are coming back to put them in order for the use of our people, for the interest of our people. We cannot be answering FCT just by mouth. We must answer FCT and show that indeed this is FCT. We are going to do that”. 12.Noting that the renewed hope agenda of the President in the FCT is practical and not just mere talking, the Minister also thanked the FCT Area Councils for their support and cooperation, irrespective of party differences. 13.He also called for the continued support of the Area Councils in the fight against poverty and insecurity in the FCT, saying that insecurity does not differentiate between political party affiliation or societal class. 14.Speaking earlier, the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud stated that the dualization of the carriageway is another demonstration of the FCTA’s commitment to the socio-economic development of the FCT. 15.Dr Mahmoud who also disclosed that the FCTA is poised to provide motorable road networks across the FCT the Area Councils said it will help to improve access and transport of goods and services, including easy access to markets, schools, offices, places of worship among others. 16.Stating that rural road infrastructure forms the backbone of rural economy and contributes significantly to the overall development of the nation, Dr Mahmoud thanked the FCT Minister for his commitment to the development of the FCT Area Councils. 17.In his welcome address, the Chairman, Kuje Area Council, Abdullahi Suleiman Sabo, said the Council is very happy that its request for the dualization of the carriageway has been granted by the FCT Minister, adding that the road project will also solve the challenges of perennial gridlock and overflow of drains, especially during the rainy seasons. 18.The Gomo Kuje, also thanked the FCT Minister for his commitment to the realization of Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the Kuje Area Council, while bestowing on him the traditional title of Jikan Dan Majidadin Kuje. this will be the third title bestowed on him following the titles from the traditional leaders Gwagwalada and Bwari Area Councils. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 05/02/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/492 1. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike and the Chairman, Kuje Area Council Hon Abdullahi Sabo during the construction of the asphalt dual carriage way in Kuje Area Council on Monday 2.FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike, Chairman, Kuje Area Council Hon Abdullahi Sabo, Member House of Representatives representing AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency and his abuja South counterpart, Hon Abdulrahman Ajiya, during the construction of the asphalt carriage way in Kuje Area Council on Monday 3. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike leading the FCT minister of state Dr Mariya Mahmoud (1st right) for the flag off of the construction of the asphalt carriage way in Kuje Area Council on Monday 4. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike alighting from the construction equipment following his flag off of the construction of of the asphalt carriage way in Kuje Area Council on Monday 5 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike making his remarks during the flag off of the construction of of the asphalt carriage way in Kuje Area Council on Monday
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| Politics › Radio Abuja Fm Celebrates Abuja's Anniversary by Dannupawa(op): 5:38pm On Feb 03, 2024 |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjnUKjs3MhQ Radio Abuja FM joins millions of Nigerians as we celebrate the anniversary of the creation of Abuja, Nigeria's capital city |
| Politics › Wike Flags Off Construction Of 7.2 Kilometer Rural Road In Bwari by Dannupawa(op): 8:47pm On Feb 02, 2024 |
FCTA PRESS RELEASE WIKE FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF 7.2 KILOMETER RURAL ROAD IN BWARI …WARNS CIVIL SERVANTS AGAINST SABOTAGE …SAYS EACH AREA COUNCIL WILL GET THREE ROADS THIS YEAR 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike on Friday, February 2, 2024, flagged off the construction of the 7.2-kilometer Gaba-Tokula road in Bwari Area Council of the Territory. 2. in his address during the exercise, Barrister Wike said that the road is a part of the 30-kilometer road project that he was directed to construct in the six Area Councils of the FCT, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 3. The Minister said aside the Gaba-Tokula road, the FCT Administration will also construct two additional rural roads in the Bwari Area Council before the end the year. 4. Barrister Wike who was also informed by the Chairman, Bwari Area Council, Hon. John Gabaya, about some abandoned road projects in the Area Council under the Federal Capital Territory Development Authority, FCDA, assured that those roads would also be completed. 5. According to the Minister, “All your requests of abandoned projects, which were initially to be carried out by the FCDA, I can assure you, by the directive of Mr. President, go home and sleep with your two eyes closed. Those projects must be started again. I can assure you that.” 6. The Minister, while blaming the problem of insecurity and rural urban migration in the FCT partly on the lack of basic infrastructure in the rural parts of the FCT, assured that the FCT Administration is ready to change the narrative by providing the needed infrastructure, in line with the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President. 7. The FCT Minister recalled that he had earlier directed the six Area Council Chairmen of the FCT to nominate roads for construction in their Area Councils, as instructed by the President, adding that provision was also made in the 2023 National Supplementary budget for the construction of these roads. 8. He said, “As I speak to you, all the Area Councils, apart from the one we are flagging off today, this year, will have two more roads. In essence, in this year, each Area Council will be having three roads, which has never happened since the creation of FCT as the Federal Capital Territory.” 9. The FCT Minister who also noted that job creation is a priority of the administration of President Tinubu, equally urged the contractors working on the projects to give opportunity to the youths, including men and women who are willing and able to work on the construction sites, to enable them fend for their families. 10.He also appealed to the traditional rulers and youths to take ownership of the projects and support the efforts of the government, saying it would encourage the government to provide them with many more projects. 11.Speaking on the availability of funds for the projects, the Minister reiterated that the FCT Administration under his leadership will not award any project without cash backing, and assured the contractors that their funds would be paid as at when due. 12.The Minister however warned against any form of bureaucratic sabotage in the execution of the projects by officials of the FCTA, saying that he will not tolerate such. 13.He charged Directors in the FCTA to expediate action on payments of contractors working on the various projects in the FCT to avoid unnecessary delays in the execution of the projects. 14.Barr. Wike said, “This is not a period where you bring bureaucracy into what we are doing. They minute a file to you to pay contractors, the file will stay in your office for two weeks. Woe be unto you that will do anything that will not make this project to go on well because you will become enemy to the people. 15.“So, take it seriously so that when the file comes to you, do it immediately and see that the payment of contractors are being processed and paid to them because when you keep the file, you suffer the payment and who will suffer, the communities will suffer. I’m not going to tolerate that. Anybody who sabotages our efforts will also be sabotaged. So have it at the back of your mind”. 16.Also speaking on the efforts of the FCT Administration to address the security challenges in Bwari Area Council, the Minister assured that every measures are being taken to fight insecurity in the Council. 17.He said, “Whether the criminals are here, whether they are not here, whether their relatives are here, go and tell them to be ready. If you are an informant, go and be ready. The time for you to go has come. We will do everything possible to make sure you will not sleep. Anywhere you are, we will come to you. We have all it takes to fight you back now. Yes, you may have succeeded yesterday, yes you may have succeeded today, but tomorrow, you will not succeed and when we catch you, forget it. Gone are the days where you will go back to say that they released you. Nobody will release you.” 18.Also collaborating the position of the Minister on the road projects, the Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud said the FCT Administration is making efforts to reduce infrastructural deficit in the rural parts of the FCT by providing them with motorable roads. 19.Dr Mahmoud reiterated that the provision of rural roads will enhance connectivity, reduce the challenge of insecurity and open opportunities for trade and commerce in the rural communities. 20.In his welcome address, the Chairman, Bwari Area Council, Hon. John Gabaya, noted that the Area Council was honoured to have the presence of the FCT Minister twice in as many weeks, which he said was the first in the councils’ history and thanked the Minister for his support in the fight against insecurity. 21.Hon. Gabaya, who stated that the Gaba-Tokula road will connect smany villages and improve accessibility of the rural areas to the urban areas, said it will also help to improve the security of lives and properties in the Area Council. 22.In their separate remarks, the Sarkin Bwari, HRH Awwal Musa Ijakoro and the Etsu Bwari, HRH Ibrahim Yaro, noted that the absence of motorable roads was posing a serious challenge to the Bwari Area Council, especially the rural areas whose inhabitants are predominantly farmers and thanked the FCT Administration for the efforts to provide access roads. 23.The Etsu who announced the decision of the people of the council to crown the Minister as the Barden Bwari, also made presentation of gifts of two cows and Yam to the Ministers in appreciation of their support for the Council. 24.Also speaking, the Director overseeing the Satellite Town Development Department, STDD, Olusegun Olusa, assured that the STDD will carry out proper supervision of the project to ensure its timely delivery. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE MINISTER 02/02/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/491 PHOTOS 1. FCT Minister of State Dr Mariya Mahmoud with FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike at the flag-off ceremony of the construction of the Gaba-Tokula Road in Bwari Area Council on Friday February 2, 2024. 2. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike making his address at the flag-off ceremony of the construction of the Gaba-Tokula Road in Bwari Area Council on Friday February 2, 2024. 3. FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud making her address at the flag-off ceremony of the construction of the Gaba-Tokula Road in Bwari Area Council on Friday February 2, 2024. 4 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike acknowledging cheers following the flag off of the construction of the Gaba-Tokula Road in Bwari Area Council on Friday February 2, 2024. 5. FCT Minister surrounded by excited residents of Bwari Area Council during the flag off of the construction of the Gaba-Tokula Road in Bwari Area Council on Friday February 2, 2024.
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| Politics › Fct Minister Flags Off 9km Road In Gwagwalada by Dannupawa(op): 11:13am On Feb 02, 2024 |
...URGES CONTRACTOR TO EMPLOY YOUTHS, 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has flagged off the construction of the 9km Paikon Kore-Ibwa Road in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT. 2. The FCT Minister while conducting the flag-off exercise in Paikon Kore Community, Gwagwalada Area Council, in the FCT on Thursday, February 1, 2024, said the road project is among the 30km roads that are set to be constructed in the six Area Councils of the FCT. 3. The Minister who noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to making life comfortable for the rural population, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, assured that the FCT Administration is also determined to ensure that development reaches the rural parts of the FCT. 4. According to the Minister, “Mr. President directed me to let you know that the renewed hope agenda is not by mere talking. Renewed Hope Agenda is for you to see that we are ready to bring back hope to our people. We are ready to bring back hope to the rural populace. We are ready to make our people in the rural areas comfortable. And one of those things that will make them comfortable is to give them access to the road". 5. Barrister Wike while noting that the provision of access roads to the rural communities will help to improve the security situation in the FCT, further disclosed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu will also construct two more roads in Gwagwalada Area Council, in addition to the Paikon Kore-Ibwa road. 6. He said, “You cannot talk of fighting insecurity by only providing equipment and logistics to the police. You fight insecurity when there is access to roads. If there are no roads, all the equipment you may give to the police comes to nothing. I’m sure with this 9km road, it will go a long way to fight insecurity in this area. 7. “Let me say that apart from this road, we are building two more roads in Gwagwalada Area Council this year. In a nutshell, this year alone, Gwagwalada Area Council will have three rural roads that will be constructed by the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and the same thing will happen to the other five Area Councils. 8. “Tomorrow, we will be at Bwari. On Monday we will be at Kuje. On Tuesday, we will be at AMAC. Wednesday, we will be at Kwali. We will make sure we visit all the rural areas and we give them roads so that they will be able to go to their farms, and they will be able to transport their goods”. 9. The Minister also assured of the availability of funds for the projects and called for diligence and good quality job from the contractors, warning that he will also visit the site to ascertain the quality and pace of work”. 10. He said “I will not tell you when I will come here for supervision. And let me tell you, I will not also depend on the report submitted by the Acting Director of STDD. What I will depend on is what I have seen with my eyes. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that I will not come here. I will come here and see what you are doing and if you don’t do it well, you will pay back my money.” 11. Speaking further on the need to develop the Area Councils of the FCT, the Minister said, “My dear good people, time has come to change the narrative. Development must not only be in the city. One reason people migrate from the rural areas to the urban areas is because of lack of facilities. When you have given them good roads, for how many minutes, they are in the city. So, it is our duty to make them comfortable wherever they find themselves.” 12. The Minister who was also informed by the Chairman, Gwagwalada Area Council, Hon Abubakar Jibril Giri that the people of Paikon-Kore/Ibwa communities have conferred on him the Chieftaincy Title of Sarkin Yaki, thanked the people for the honour, and for being the first to give him such recognition in the FCT. 13. He also charged the contractors to ensure that the people of the communities are also employed in the course of the road project, adding that job creation is also a priority of the President Tinubu administration. 14. Also speaking on the efforts of the FCTA to address the security challenges in the territory, the Minister assured that the security agencies in the FCT have been provided with the necessary logistics to take the fight head on to the criminals to make sure that they do not sleep. 15. “Today, you can see that we are not letting them go and they will not sleep. All these criminals, we will make sure they will not sleep. As they said you will not sleep, they too will not sleep. So, we are taking the war head on. Let them wait for us. They will see fire for fire” the Minister stressed. 16. In her remarks the Hon Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, said the Paikon Kore-Ibwa road project extends beyond just laying asphalt on the ground, as it would connect the communities and provide access to essential services as well as improve the security situation. 17. Dr Mariya stressed that the difficulties faced by the rural communities, including access to markets, education and medical services in times of emergencies would also be addressed by the road construction. 18. “It will enhance connectivity, reduce travel times and open an opportunity for trade and commerce. It will also improve access to education, empower our rural population and also improve our security challenges”, she added. 19. Also speaking, the Chairman, Gwagwalada Area Council thanked the FCT Minister for providing succor to the rural communities in the FCT Area Councils with the construction of access roads, adding that the roads will help to address the issue of insecurity in the FCT. 20. “Constructing this road from Paikon Kore to Ibwa, I know you have reduced the problems of insecurity also. Most of the people staying here are farmers and they find it difficult to bring their farm products to the town when the products are supposed to be in town. I believe with this very serious action that you aim to do, the people of this axis are very happy.” 21. Giving an overview of the project, the Acting Director, STDD, Olusegun stated that the road is scheduled for completion by May this year. 22. Also speaking, the MD, Setraco, Engr. Ziad Mouannes assured of the timely delivery of the project. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 01/02/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/490 1. Hon. Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud making her address during the flag off of construction at Paikon Kore /Ibwa road in Gwagwalada Area Council on Thursday 2 Hon. Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud and the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike during the flag off of construction at Paikon Kore /Ibwa road in Gwagwalada Area Council on Thursday 3 Aerial view of the Paikon Kore /Ibwa road to be constructed in Gwagwalada Area Council 4 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike acknowledging cheers from residents of Paikon Kore during the flag off of construction of Paikon Kore /Ibwa road in Gwagwalada Area Council on Thursday
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| Politics › Wike Minister Flags Off Construction Of 5 Km Roads In Each FCT Area Council by Dannupawa(op): 9:13am On Feb 01, 2024 |
1. As part of efforts to fulfil the Renewed Hope mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike will on Thursday, February 1, 2024 flag off the construction of 5 kilometer roads in each of the 6 Area Councils of the FCT. 11 Likes
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| Politics › Wike Says 13.km Major Abuja Road To Be Completed December This Year by Dannupawa(op): 9:01pm On Jan 29, 2024 |
1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has disclosed that the project for the construction of the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX) would be completed by December of 2024. 2. The FCT Minister made the disclosure in Abuja on Monday, January 29, 2024, when he visited the project sites of the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX), a 13km stretch of road from the Southern Parkway around the Christian Centre and CBN in the Central Business District to the Galadimawa Interchange. 3. Barr. Wike who described the road project as very ambitious and capable of changing the landscape of the city, assured that it would be completed with adequate funding. 4. The Minister also inspected the 15km Left Hand Services Carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway Stage II, from Ring Road I Junction (by Apo Roundabout) to Wasa Junction Abuja. He said the expressways, when completed, will decongest traffic within the Abuja city centre. 6. According to the FCT Minister, “We first of all went to the Inner Southern Expressway and then we are now on the Outer Southern Expressway. The importance of these two major contracts, they will do a lot to decongest the traffic you see very often along this road. 7. “But more importantly, the Inner Southern Expressway, you can see how huge it is. It’s a very ambitious project. We are not afraid of tackling it. We believe by the grace of God, with adequate funding, that project is a project that has to be completed and it will of course change the landscape of FCT and this will be completed this year. We believe if we fund them very well, which we’ve been able to do, by December, this Outer Southern Carriageway will be completed”. 8. Barr. Wike also expressed satisfaction with the transformation that is ongoing in the FCT in terms of the provision of major infrastructure and expressed the hope that a lot will be achieved before the onset of this year’s rainy season. 9. He said the contractors were also concentrating on the roads that are to be commissioned by May this year, notably the OSEX from Villa Round About to Ring Road I, the Full scope Development of Arterial Road N20 from Northern Parkway to ONEX, among others, having been heavily funded by the FCT Administration. 10. He further assured that the FCT Administration has the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and will continue to carry out its responsibilities to residents of the FCT. 11. Speaking on the spate of insecurity in the FCT over the last few weeks, the Minister once again assured that the security agencies in the territory are working round the clock to ensure the safety of all residents, adding that security operatives would continue to take the war to criminals wherever they may be in the nation’s capital. 12. Giving an overview of the projects, the Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Shehu Ahmad Hadi explained that the full scope of development of ISEX stretches from AYA Roundabout to meet the OSEX in Kuje. 13. He said the segment visited by the Minister was a 10 kilometer stretch of road from the Southern Parkway to the Ring Road II, around Galadimawa interchange. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE MINISTER 29/01/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/487 PHOTOS 1.. Photo of the ISEX bridge un der construction 2. FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike (2nd left) acknowledging cheers from residents during his tour of projects in abuja on Monday. 3 Exceutive Secretary, FCDA Engr Shehu Ahmed (1st left) briefing the FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom wike during his tour of projects in Abuja on Monday
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| Politics › Wike Pledges Continuous Interaction With Fct Area Councils by Dannupawa(op): 7:21pm On Jan 27, 2024 |
...FCTA TO PROVIDE ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE IN KUJE AREA COUNCIL 1. The FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has pledged continuous interactions with the six Area Councils to ensure security and development of the FCT. 2. The Minister made the pledge during the last leg of the security town hall meeting series in Kuje Area Council, where the Minister interacted with residents of the Area Council to proffer solutions to the security challenges in the nation’s capital. 3. Barrister Wike who noted that his visits to the Councils has increased his knowledge of issues that are of great importance to the people, thanked the Council Chairmen for making the visits possible. 4. He said the FCT is not limited to Abuja city centre, but also include the Area Councils and assured that the dialogue would continue to foster the development of the FCT. 5. According to the Minister, “Apart from the fact that we are faced with security challenges now, we have decided that FCT is not just Abuja and therefore we have to be interacting with other areas that make up the FCT. 6. “If you don’t interact with them, you won’t know their peculiar problems. We can’t be sitting in the city without coming to you, finding out what your problems are, your immediate problems, so that we will be able to tackle them”. 7. Reiterating that security is one of the key priorities of the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister stressed that the FCT Administration has made the necessary procurements to ensure that the security agencies get needed logistics over the next few weeks to secure the territory. 8. “We have purchased vehicles, motorbikes, communication gadgets, name them. So, it will no longer be logistics problems, we are ready for it”, the Minister assured. 9. The Minister who expressed shock that the Kuje Area Council with close proximity to the city centre, did not have good motorable roads, in spite of its very massive land mass, revealed that he has signed the contract for the construction of the road from Rubochi to Kuje. 10. Also reacting to the complaint by the Kuje Council Chairman that bad roads in the Council were contributing to insecurity, the Minister said he was surprised that the contract for the roads leading to the resettlement areas in Kuje Area Councils were abandoned. He said the FCT Administration will take over construction of the roads and complete them to improve the security of the area. 11. “Today, let me tell you, I will go back and take those projects and complete them for you...It’s not that we are doing you any good. You are entitled to it. It is our responsibility to provide the infrastructure to make life easy for you. So, we are not doing anything extra ordinary. It’s our job and under this administration, and promises made by Mr. President and me as your Minister, by the grace of God, you will see changes in this FCT” 12. The Minister however called for the support of the people and the traditional institutions, urging them to provide useful information to the security agencies to enable them address the security challenges. 13. The Minister also reiterated his earlier warnings to the criminals and their collaborators in the FCT that their time was up, urging them to either repent or be made to face the full wrath of the law. 14. He also called on the Council Chairman to work with the security agencies to ensure that the local vigilantes are profiled and empowered, in addition to also holding regular security meetings in the Council, at least once a month. 15. The Minister equally urged the Council Chairmen to stay in their domain and do what they have been elected to do, rather than going to stay in the city centre. 16. He said: “You can’t run away from your responsibility. Make sure you stay here and know the problems of your people and you will be able to relate it to us, then we will be able to know how we can support you”. 17. Earlier in his remark, the Kuje Council Chairman, Abdullahi Suleiman Sabo said the Council was still experiencing kidnapping incidents but added that the security agencies were responding to the situation, in spite of the difficulties. 18. Hon. Sabo who noted that the Minister’s visit has boosted the morale of the people, including the community leaders and the security agencies, also commended the Minister’s intervention on road constructions across the six Area Councils. 19. He however pleaded with the FCT Minister to intervene in the construction and dualization of critical road projects in Kuje Area Council, which he said were making life difficult for motorists and other road users as well as contributing to insecurity. 20. The Chairman further noted that mining activities in the council were also connected to the security challenges and called for proper regulation of the activities of miners. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE MINISTER) 27/01/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/486 1. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike making his address during the security townhall meeting in Kuje Area Council.on Saturday 2. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (right) being welcomed to Kuje Area Council by HRH the Gomo of Kuje, Alh Haruna Jibrin Tanko on Saturday 3 L-R: Former FCT Senator Phillip Aduda, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Chairman, Kuje Area Council Abdullahi Sabo during the Minister's security Town hall meeting in Kuje on Saturday 4.cross section of military personnel and residents of Kuje Area Council during the Security Townhall meeting with FCT Minister in Kuje on Saturday 5 FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Chairman, Kuje Area Council Abdullahi Sabo during the Minister's security Town hall meeting in Kuje on Saturday
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| Politics › Wike Harps On Role Of Council Chairmen In Fight Against Insecurity by Dannupawa(op): 7:35am On Jan 27, 2024 |
…WARNS AGAINST POLITICIZING FCT’S SECURITY SITUATION ….URGES COUNCIL CHAIRMEN TO ENSURE SECURITY MEETINGS ARE HELD MONTHLY ...PLEDGES TO COMPLETE ABANDONED PROJECTS IN THE AREA COUNCILS Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has warned against politicizing the security situation in the nation’s capital. The Minister gave the warning in Abuja on Friday, during the 4th Security Townhall Meeting held in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, (AMAC) to reassure the residents of the commitment of the government to address the security challenges in the FCT. The Sarkin Karshi, HRH, Ismaila Mohammed Danladi had expressed concern at the meeting that some politicians were giving ethnic and religious colouration to the security situation in the FCT. Barrister Wike, in his response, said insecurity does not recognize religion or the area where one comes from and called on FCT residents to work together to support the security agencies by providing credible information that will lead to arrests and prosecution. According to the Minister, “We must not politicize the issue of security. Its unfortunate that instead of people to rub minds together on how they will contribute and what they can tell the government on how we can solve the problems, all we do is to go to social media, fabricate lies, blackmail people and begin to mislead our people.” “Insecurity does not know who is a Christian. Insecurity does not know who is a Muslim. Insecurity does not know where you come from. It can be me today, it can be you tomorrow. It can be another person tomorrow. So, it has nothing to do with you are from here, you are not from here”. Barr. Wike also assured that the government was committed to providing all what the security agencies require to help them perform their duties. He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that the security agencies should be provided with vehicles, communication gadgets, motorbikes, among other facilities in the next one week. The Minister added that the Area Council Chairmen have also been directed to set up vigilante outfits and get the security agencies to profile all candidates, to ensure that they are credible people. He also stressed the importance of making sure that the allowances of the vigilante members. “You must make sure that their entitlements are paid so that they will be committed in giving out information to the security agencies”. The Minister who also reacted to reports that some Area Council Chairmen were not holding regular security meetings , said such Council Chairmen constitute a security threat to their Area Councils and would be held responsible. Speaking on the NUT and NULGE strike in which the FCT Administration intervened, the Minister explained that the intervention became necessary to ensure that the striking workers do not constitute a security threat to the Councils and the FCT. On the request by the, AMAC Chairman, Christopher Maikalangu for the provision of a police division and construction of roads in the remote parts of the Area Council where kidnapping is rife, the Minister assured that the police division would be provided on an emergency basis The Minister said, “Now that the Chairman has requested a police division, let it not be that we did not listen to him. Let’s build a police division there so that they can have the confidence and hope that insecurity will reduce”. “So, these roads which your Chairman has requested we will do it for you because I believe in what he has said that the construction of these roads will reduce insecurity”. The FCT Minister also gave a nod to the request by the Abaji Area Council Chairman, Hon Abubakar Abdullahi, that a military checkpoint should be established in Yaba, as well as a police division in the Area Council, assuring that the FCTA is ready to provide the logistics. He also promised to complete three abandoned road projects in the Abaji Area Council that were awarded by the FCT Administration and urged the Chairman to furnish him with the details so that work could commence immediately. “I have to summon the Director of STDD and make sure that you get the contractors. If the contractors are not around, I will award it to new contractors. The Minister further assured that the FCT Administration will provide a pedestrian bridge in Abaji town to save the lives of the people , adding that the FCTA will also pay compensation to allow work to commence on the interchange project awarded by the Federal Minister of Works in Abaji. Barr. Wike also promised to ensure the completion of the Abaji University of Technology as well put in place the necessary facilities. Speaking further on the efforts to address security challenges in the city centre, the Minister explained that the recent demolition of shanties in Abuja was done to rid the city of criminality and not targeted at anybody. Barr. Wike however warned criminals and their informants in the FCT to repent or be prepared to face what is coming to them. He said, “If you don’t repent now, whatever you see, you take. Those days are gone where when they arrest you, they give you bail. My own period, when they catch a criminal, if you like go and bring anybody, you can’t be a kidnapper and you talk about bail. It is not going to be allowed. The law must take it’s course. We will do everything to see that you are fully prosecuted”. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE HON, Minister) 26/01/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/485 1. Former FCT Senator, Philip Aduda, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike Chairman, AMAC Hon Christoper Zakka, Sarkin Karshi, HRH Ismaila Muhammed Danladai, Sapeyi of Garki, HRH Usman Ngakupi and Sarkin Jiwa HRH Musa Idris during thebsecurity townhall meeting in AMAC on Friday 2AMAC Residents waiting for the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike during the AMAC security town hall meeting on Friday 3.FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike making his address during the security townhall meeting in AMAC on Friday 4 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike and the Chairman AMAC during the Minister's security townhall meeting in AMAC on Friday 5 residents of Abaji at the security town hall meeting with the FCT Minister on Friday 6 Former FCT Senator, Philip Aduda, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike Chairman, Abaji Area council Hon Abubakar Abdullahi, and Onah of Abaji HRH Adamu Baba Yunusa during the security townhall meeting in abaji on Friday 1 Share
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| Politics › Insecurity: FCT Minister, Wike Meets Traditional Rulers by Dannupawa(op): 6:42am On Jan 25, 2024 |
INSECURITY: FCT MINISTER MEETS TRADITIONAL RULERS, AREA COUNCIL CHAIRMEN ...SOLICITS SUPPORT OF TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS …DIRECTS AREAS COUNCILS TO SET UP VIGILANTE OUTFITS Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has called for the support of traditional rulers and Area Council Chairmen in the FCT in tackling the problem of insecurity in the nation’s capital. The FCT Minister made the call in Abuja on Wednesday when he held a meeting with the FCT graded chiefs and Area Council Chairmen on the securiry challenges confronting the territory and government’s efforts in curbing them. Barrister Wike said traditional rulers and Area Council Chairmen have roles to play in ensuring security in their domain by providing credible information to security agencies. He said, “Traditional rulers have a role to play in securing their domain. You know those around your domain. If there are faces that you think are not familiar within that axis, it is within your powers to report such faces or call your Area Council Chairman to be able to make a report to security agencies or to my office so that actions can be taken”. The Minister who also disclosed that he has instructed the six Area Councils in the FCT to set up vigilante outfits to complement the efforts of the security agencies, urged the traditional rulers to ensure that those that would be enlisted into the vigilante outfits are fit and proper persons with no criminal records. According to the Minister, “We have instructed all the Area Councils to set up vigilante units and we believe that those vigilantes will not be the ones perpetrating the crime. Therefore, they must be profiled to know who these people are. Do we know them? Are they from our communities, so we don’t go and say we want to solve problems while we are causing problems for ourselves. Speaking further on the efforts of the government to address the security challenges in the FCT, the Minister said the police and other security agencies have been directed to itemize all their needs in the fight against insecurity and added that the FCTA will also provide motorcycles to all the area councils to enable the security agencies to go to hard- to-reach locations. Barrister Wike also stressed the need for synergy and cooperation among all the stakeholders involved in the fight against insecurity in the FCT to ensure that they are on the same page. He equally encouraged the Council Chairmen and traditional rulers to bring to the attention of the government whatever they believe should be done to address the security challenges in the FCT. He said, “We must work hard because insecurity is not written on anybody’s face. Nobody knows who may be the next victim and that is why we must do everything possible to see that we don’t allow our subjects to continue to be victims of these criminals”. The Minister also cautioned against politicizing the fight against insecurity in the FCT as well as the spread of misinformation about the activities of government, especially the demolition of shanties which are known to provide cover for criminals. Also speaking on the efforts to address the menace of taxi robbery, popularly known as “one chance”, the Minister disclosed that the FCT Administration is putting structures in place that would ensure that only registered taxis painted in FCT colours are allowed to operate in the FCT. He said, “Very soon, we are going to roll out our buses which will be painted in Abuja colour. In that case, we will not allow taxis that are not painted in Abuja colour to operate here, so that those “one chance” will no longer be there. The Minister added that the FCTA will also provide bus terminals for various routes in the FCT which will serve as the operational base for registered buses and taxis in the FCT. “If we have three to four terminals, it will be designed in such a way that these vehicles will go to so, so areas. If you are travelling to so, so area, go to that terminal and those that will operate there are taxis and buses that we have profiled, we know them”, he further stressed. In his remark, the Chairman, FCT Traditional Council and the Onah of Abaji, Dr Adamu Baba Yunusa commended the efforts of the FCT Administration in addressing the security challenges in the FCT and pledged the support and cooperation of the traditional institution. The Onah also thanked the Minister for approving the construction and rehabilitation of roads in the six Area Councils of the FCT as well as the construction of selected palaces of traditional rulers. He however drew the attention of the FCT Minister to the issue of the striking staff of the FCT Area Councils, NULGE, as well as teachers in the FCT primary schools, to which the Minister responded that the issues have been resolved. The Minister said he met with the NUT and the Area Councils, where they agreed that the FCTA will offset 40 percent of the debts owed by the Area Councils, which will be paid on a monthly basis, while the Area Councils will also pay the remaining 60 percent. “The same thing with NULGE. FCT has taken over 40 percent, let them pay 60 percent. In the next three, four months, we would have finished paying and they are all happy”. Also speaking, the Chairman of Kwali Area who is also the FCT ALGON Chairman, Danladi Chiya assured that the six Area Council Chairmen will provide the necessary support and work with the FCT Administration to ensure that government meets its objectives. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 24/01/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/484 PHOTOS 1. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (1st right) and members of the Council of chiefs during the meeting between the Minister and traditional chiefs of the FCT on Wednesday 2 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike chairing his meeting with traditional rulers and Area Council Chairmen of the FCT.on Wednesday 3. FCT Area Council Chairmen during their meeting with the FCT Minister on Wednesday 4. L-R: Sarkin Karshi Alh Ismaila Mohammed, Onah of Abaji and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike during the Minister's meeting with traditional rulers and area council chairmen on Wednesday 5.L-R: Sarkin Karshi Alh Ismaila Mohammed, Onah of Abaji and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike during the Minister's meeting with traditional rulers and area council chairmen on Wednesday 8 Likes 1 Share
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| Politics › Abuja Security: Wike To Rehabilitate Roads In Kwali by Dannupawa(op): 8:16pm On Jan 23, 2024 |
1. As part of efforts to address the security challenges that are peculiar to the Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory, the FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom has pledged that the FCT Administration will rehabilitate two key roads in Kwali Area Council 2. The rehabilitation of the roads is aimed at limiting the activities of criminals in the Council. 3. The FCT Minister made the pledge on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, during the Townhall Meeting held in Kwali Area Council to address the security challenges in the Council. 4. Barr. Wike who was informed by the Kwali Area Council Chairman, Danladi Chiya that the Council was experiencing security challenges due to the dilapidated state of the roads along Yebu to Kwaita axis as well as the Warko road, directed the Chairman to furnish him with more details for immediate action. He also promised to complete an abandoned road project being undertaken by the FCDA. 5. The Minister said these roads were in addition to the earlier ones he had directed the six area councils to select for rehabilitation. 6. “To add to what you are doing here in Kwali, let me inform you to go and choose two other roads. You go and liaise with your traditional rulers. From what I have heard you say, there is one road you have said that is very important that is not motorable and you want an outpost of the army to be there. From what you are saying, it does appear that that road is very important. So, take that one and any other one. 7. “You have told me there is one that is FCDA road and it has been abandoned. That one that is abandoned, we will also take over”. 8. Speaking on the importance of the on-going Townhall Meetings, the Minister said he was directed by President Tinubu to bring messages of reassurance to the Area Councils about the preparedness of the government to address the security challenges confronting them. 9. Barr. Wike also assured that the security agencies are being provided with the necessary support and logistics to bring the situation under control. 10. The Minister said, “The President has directed me to let you know that he feels your pain and that’s why he said we must go and see all the Area Councils and talk to them about our preparedness to fight insecurity to a conclusion. 11. “Yes, it may not have been like this yesterday, but I can assure you, from now henceforth, you will be hearing a different story and the story you will be hearing is a positive one. 12. “We are fully prepared to support our security agencies. Whatever that will make the council sleep with their two eyes closed, we are going to give to them. Ours is to provide the necessary logistics. As I speak to you, we have almost concluded the procurement of vehicles for security agencies. 13. “We are going to give every Area Council motorcycles so that you can use it and support your vigilantes so that they will be able to help us and give security agencies the necessary information.” 14. The Minister however urged the traditional rulers to always provide information about the activities of criminals to the security agencies, saying that not much could be achieved without information. 15. He also cautioned against misinformation in the social media, saying that the government will never lie to the people about its capacity to tackle the security challenges in the FCT. 16. Barrister Wike also assured that the Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will bring development to the Area Councils in the FCT to discourage rural urban drift. 17. According to the FCT Minister, “Whatever that is going to bring development, the government has no hesitation. Whatever that is going to improve security, we have no hesitation. 18. “We can’t talk about development only in the city. Why most people go to the city is because there is no basic infrastructure in these areas. If there are roads, someone can go from here (Kwali) to work and come back. 19. “Because the Area Councils have been abandoned, that’s why so many people are migrating into the city. We will not have that. We will make sure we develop the area Councils. 20. “This will be the first Administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that will focus on the development of the Area Councils. Before the end of his tenure, you will see a lot of infrastructure going on in the Six Area Councils”. 21. On the plea by the Council Chairman for the swearing in of a new traditional ruler in Kwali following the demise of the last one, Barrister Wike assured that he will give approval to the request, if it is determined that there are no disputes or court cases involving the process. 22. “On the Chieftaincy issue, if there is no dispute, consider it done. If everything has been done, as I go back to the office, I will take the file and make sure it is approved”, the Minister stated. 23. Also present during the Town Hall meeting were the Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Permanent Secretary, FCTA, Mr. Olusade Adesola, former Senator representing the FCT in the National Assembly, Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda, Senator Mao Onuabuwa Rt Hon Chibudom Nwuche, Sarkin Pai, HRH Sani Abubakar Pai, other traditional rulers, members of the FCT Security Committee amongst others.
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| Politics › Wike Gets Tinubu's Approval To Purchase Device To Track Kidnappers by Dannupawa(op): 10:43pm On Jan 22, 2024 |
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted an emergency approval for procurement of digital tracking devices to aid the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.PHOTO FCT Minister, barrister Nyesom Wike stressing a point during the media on Monday 10 Likes 1 Share
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| Politics › Wike Again Vows To Flush Out Kidnappers From Fct by Dannupawa(op): 9:32pm On Jan 19, 2024 |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TauSQFTrfI …DIRECTS COMMISSIONER OF POLICE TO ESTABLISH TWO POLICE DIVISIONS IN GWAGWALADA 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has pledged to work with the security agencies to flush out kidnappers and their informants from the nation’s capital. 2. The Minister made the pledge in Abuja on Friday when he visited the Gwagwalada Area Council in continuation of his town hall engagements to reassure FCT residents of their safety and galvanise public support for government efforts to combat kidnapping and other security challenges. 3. Barrister Wike, speaking in pidgin explained that the protection of lives and properties is a priority of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda also said the President has given marching orders to the security agencies to rid the FCT of criminals. 4. He said he was also directed by the President to visit all the Area Councils in the FCT in order to interact and interface with the people to address their peculiar challenges, adding that he would also visit Kwali and Abaji Area Councils next week. 5. The Minister, while reiterating that the days were numbered for criminals and their collaborators in the FCT, directed the FCT Commissioner of Police to establish two police divisions in Gwagwalada Area Council to improve security presence, as requested by Hon Abubabakar Jibrin Giri Gwagwalada Area Council Chairman and HRH Alhaji Mumammad Magaji, the Aguma of Gwagwalada. 6. He also pledged to provide additional patrol vehicles and communication gadgets for the security agencies in the Area Councils and also assured that the abandoned general hospital in Gwagwalada would be completed while the road leading to the teaching hospital would also be included in the 2024 budget for dualization. 7. Barr. Wike, while assuring of the support of the FCT Administration for the Gwagwalada Area Council, however admonished the residents against organizing crowd funding for payment of ransom, adding that the security agencies were on top of the situation. 8. The Minister also called for the support of the residents, including the traditional rulers, urging them to provide useful information to the security agencies to aid the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes. 9. Speaking earlier, the Chairman, Gwagwalada Area Council, Abubakar Jubril Giri commended the FCT Minister over his efforts to address insecurity in the FCT Area Councils. 10. The Chairman who also complimented the improved security in Gwagwalada Area Council, attributed that achievement to the synergy and cooperation between the Council and the security agencies. 11. He however sought the permission of the FCT Minister to remove some uncompleted buildings in the Council which he said were criminal hideouts and called for more police divisions in Gwagwalada to limit the activities of criminals. 12. The Aguma of Gwagwalada Alhaji Mohammed Magaji while also corroborating the position of the Chairman, equally appealed for the completion of the abandoned general hospital in Gwagwalada Area Council as well as the dualization of the road leading to the University Teaching Hospital. 13. Also in attendance at the townhall meeting were Senator Philip Aduda, Chairman, Kwali Area Council Hon. Danladi Chiya, former House member representing Abuja South, Hon, Zakari Angulu Dobi and community, traditional and religious leaders as well as members of the FCT Security Committee. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECYTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) FCTA/ODP/PR/481 19/01/2024 PHOTOS 1. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike addressing residents of Gwagwalada Area Council during a townhall meeting on security on Friday 19th January, 2024 2. FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike (left) conferring with the Chairman, Gwagwalada Area Council, Hon Abubakar Jibril Giri during a townhall meeting on security on Friday 19th January, 2024 3. L-R: former FCT Senator Philip Aduda, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Gwagwalada Area Council Chairman, Abubakar Jibril Giri and Aguma of Gwagwalada, HRH Alh. Muhammadu Magaji during a townhall meeting on security on Friday 19th January, 2024 4. Community leaders at the Town hall meeting with the FCT Minister in Gwagwalada on Thursday, 19th January, 2024 5. Members of the FCT Security Committee during the townhall meeting on security on Friday 19th January, 2024 in Gwagwalada, FCT
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| Politics › Wike Reads Riot Act To Contractors As He Tours On-going Projects by Dannupawa(op): 9:19pm On Jan 18, 2024 |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcclKQg4eqU ...WARNS AGAINST DISRUPTION OF WORK The Hon. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has warned will not condone the disruption of ongoing infrastructure projects in the FCT. Barrister Wike issued the warning during an inspection tour of the ongoing Guzape 1 Lot 2 District infrastructure project, the Guzape Diplomatic Zone infrastructure project being undertaken by Gilmor Engineering, as well as the ongoing Road B12 in the Central Business District by Julius Berger Plc. The FCT Minister who observed a setback in the Guzape District project where it was reported by the contractor that a House of Representatives member, using security agents, issued a stop work order to the contractors, warned that such actions would not be tolerated. The Minister said it was wrong for anybody to disrupt a legitimate project being undertaken by the FCT Administration with the approval of the Federal Executive Council and urged the contractors not to heed the order. He said anybody who has any complaints about ongoing projects should write to the FCTA and not try to use the police to stop a legitimate construction work meant for public use. According to the Minister, “We are not going to take it lightly. This is not a private project. It’s a public project being handled by the Federal Capital Territory Administration. If there is any complaint, we think that whoever is concerned should complain to us and not to go and use police to stop a legitimate company constructing work for the use of the public, which was approved by the Federal Executive Council. “We have directed the contractor to go back and make sure they don’t heed to that so called stoppage. They must go back and complete the work which we are expecting Mr. President will commission in May”. The Minister who also observed an obstruction along the ongoing Road B12 in the Central Business District, reportedly caused by the Central Bank of Nigeria, said he will write to the apex bank to remove the obstruction. Speaking on his overall impression of the projects visited, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress of work and expressed the hope that they would be completed by the month of May. The Minister said, “We are very happy with what we saw in Guzape Lot 2, which is very vast and the contractor is confident of meeting up with the deadline and we believe they are going to accomplish it. “Coming to the B6 and B12 area, we are happy with the work done by Julius Berger and just like you heard, the representative of the company has said that by May, they will hand it over. “By and large, we are very happy with what we are seeing and you can attest to the fact that since Mr. President came on board, no work has stopped in all the sites. There are so many of the sites but it will be difficult to take all at the same time. But we believe after May, before December too, some other projects will be handed over to members of the public.” Meanwhile, the Minister also met with the contractors working on the rehabilitation and resurfacing of the roads in the Asokoro District and he expressed displeasure at the seeming slow pace of work. The Minister said he had personally driven around the area where he saw no single equipment deployed to the project sites, except the signs of road diversions. Barrister Wike who explained that the FCT Administration has not awarded any contract without cash backing since the inception of the President Tinubu Administration, expressed disappointment that not much has been achieved by the contractors working on the Asokoro road project, despite being mobilized. According to him, “I have on my own gone round, I don’t see any meaningful work going on. I didn’t want to tell you that I would be coming so that you will go and mobilize and be doing as if work is going on. For the past one week I’ve been going round on my own where you put road signs on road traffic management and there is no single equipment there. “You put those signs on road traffic management and then you think that work is going on. You get there, you don’t see one equipment. That is deceitful. I said I have to call them let them tell me where the jobs are going on. Nobody collects mobilization and then you don’t show seriousness.” He added; “I have always said before and I will continue to say it. We will not award contract when we don’t have money. Any contract award since I came on board has cash backup. I’m not talking about before. I’m talking about since the inception of this Tinubu’s government. There is no need for awarding contracts when there is no cash back up. “So, having mobilized you, I was thinking by now we would have seen a lot of improvements. When jobs are going on, you will notice a lot of traffic because of diversions but most of the diversions are just signs you put there maybe to say you are doing work. Maybe the equipment are parked somewhere. They are now visible. So, I will like to hear from you, the sections each of the companies are working and where they are working, what stage they are. I’m tired of you writing me a memo. All I want is seeing, physical presence”, Barr. Wike said. The Minister was accompanied on the tour by the Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr Shehu Hadi Ahmed, former Senator representing FCT, Senator Philip Aduda and senior officials of the FCTA. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) FCTA/ODP/PR/480 PHOTOS 1. FCT Minister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (4th right) flanked by the ES FCDA, Engr Shehu Hadi Ahmed, (5th right), former FCT Senator, Phillip Aduda, (3rd right) Project Manager Julius Berger, Oliver Berger, (1st right) and officials of the FCTA during the Minister's tour of projects in the Central Area of Abuja 2. MD Gilmor Engineering, Eli Goldhar Hon Felix Obuah, FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, and Executive Secretary FCDA, Engr Shehu Ahmed during the Minister's tour of projects at the Guzape District of Abuja 3 FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike ( 1st left) being briefed by the ES FCDA, Engr Shehu Ahmed (holding the mic) during the Minister's tour of projects in Guzape District of abuja on Thursday. 4 . Construction work on the Road B12 in the Central Business District of Abuja 5. FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike (2nd left) being briefed on work progress at the Guzape District of Abuja on Thursday Hide trimmed content
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| Politics › Wike To Bandits: Enough Is Enough by Dannupawa(op): 8:28pm On Jan 17, 2024 |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1-JoNjDCQk …Says security agencies will bring kidnappings to a halt Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike on Wednesday held a town hall meeting in Bwari Area Council over the security challenges in the Area Council. The Minister explained that the meeting was intended to interact and interface with the people of the Area Council in order to find lasting solution to the security challenges. He disclosed that security was on the front burner of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who insited that he should come to Bwari to reassure the residents of the area council even though the Federal Executive Council meeting was taking place. He said ““I bring you greetings from Mr. President who insisted that I must be here this morning. As I speak to you now, the Federal Executive Council Meeting is taking place, but Mr. President insisted that I must be here today to talk with you to reassure you that we will not abandon you. “Security is one of the key priorities of Mr. President’s administration. Yesterday, Mr. President held a high-level security meeting, which includes all the Service Chiefs, the Minister of Defence and my humble self because of recent attacks, particularly in Bwari. “Security is one of the key priorities that Mr. President’s renewed hope agenda will want to face squarely. It’s no longer going to be business a usual. Everything has to be done to protect lives and properties. Without protection of lives and properties, then we have no business to be in government”. The Minister also disclosed that he has been mandated by the President to work with the Service Chiefs to ensure that security challenges were brought to a minimal and that approval had been granted to provide all that was required by the security agencies to address security threats in Bwari Area Council and other parts of the FCT. The Minister said, “Just this morning, Mr. President has given me approval to provide every logistic required to the security agencies. This is not just mere talking. We are serious. Security agencies will not have any reason to say that they are not equipped. We will provide everything required”. He said the security agencies will take proactive actions in the coming days to bring kidnappings to halt, adding that the government was also doing everything possible to ensure the release of the kidnapped victim and assured the Chairman of the area council that vehicles and other logistics support would be provided for the security agencies and other security outfits to encourage them in their efforts. The Minister also noted that the bandits terrorizing the residents of the area were those who were dislodged from the North East and were making inroads into the nation’s capital and vowed that his Administration will make the city very hot for them. “My coming here today is to assure you that we are very serious. To all those criminals and bandits, enough is enough. We will do everything within our powers to make sure that we do not allow this to happen again.” The Minister therefore called for the support of the traditional institutions and community leaders and urged them to provide information to the security agencies for timely and proactive actions. He said, “Everybody has a role to play by providing information. By information, you help the security agencies to proactively take control before anything will happen. What will solve the problem is your support to the security agencies. The Minister who also condoled the council over the kidnapping incidents and the loss lives, however cautioned residents against disclosing their intentions to raise funds for ransom. He said such actions was helping the bandits and not the government or the people The Minister said, “Stop going to make announcements that you are ready to raise money. By going to the radio stations, you are not helping us. You are helping them. Why would I go and give a criminal N100 million. There is no money to be raised anywhere. We will fight them to release our people. We will chase them away”. Speaking earlier the Chairman, Bwari Area Council, Hon John Gabaya thanked the FCT Minister for his timely visit and for the immense support of the FCT Administration to the Council and disclosed efforts of his council in the fight against kidnappings and banditry which include the use of local vigilantes and increased patrol into vulnerable areas. The Chairman who noted that the difficult terrain of the area made the addressing the security issues more challenging, however, pledged that the Council will continue to do its best to ensure the safety of lives and properties. Speaking earlier, the Etsu Bwari HRH Ibrahim Yaro and the Sarkin Bwari HRH Awwal Ijakoro also acknowledged the support of the FCT Administration as well as the efforts of the security agencies and the Bwari Area Council in tackling the security challenges. Also present during at event were members of the FCT Security Committee, former FCT Senator, Phillip Aduda, Community and religious leaders, members of the Bwari vigilante outfit among others. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 17/01/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/479 PHOTO CAPTIONS 1. L-R: FCT Minister, barrister Nyesom Wike, Chairman, Bwari Area Council Dr John Gabaya and Etsu Bwari HRH Ibrahim Yaro conferring during the townhall meeting on security in Bwari on Wednesday, 17th January, 2024 2. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike Addressing community leaders during the townhall meeting on security in Bwari on Wednesday 3. L-R : FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, Bwari Area Council Chairman, Dr John Gabaya, Sarkin Bwari, HRH Awwal Ijakoro, Etsu Bwari HRH Ibrahim Yaro during the townhall meeting on security in Bwari on Wednesday 4 . FCT Minister Nyesom Wike making his remarks during the townhall meeting on security in Bwari on Wednesday. 1 Like
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| Politics › Wike Vows To Confront Security Challenges In Fct by Dannupawa(op): 2:50pm On Jan 16, 2024*. Modified: 5:50pm On Jan 16, 2024 |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02MOQ-1AkoY …WARN COUNCIL CHAIRMEN AGAINT ABDICATING RESPONSIBILITIES 1. The Hon.Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has assured residents of the nation’s capital that the FCT Administration is doing everything within its capacity to address the recent security challenges in parts of the FCT. 2. Barrister Wike who gave the assurance in Abuja on Tuesday, during an emergency security meeting with the heads of various security agencies in the FCT and the Area Council Chairmen, urged FCT residents not to panic. 3. He said the FCT Administration is equally concerned about the security challenges in the FCT, adding that the emergency security meeting was part of the Administration’s efforts to find solution to the challenges, particularly in Bwari satellite town and other areas. 4. He said the FCT Administration owes a duty to ensure the safety of the FCT, which is home to all Nigerians, adding that it was also providing the necessary support required by the various security agencies in the FCT to provide solution to the challenges. 5. According to the Minister, “All of us are aware of the security situation in the Federal Capital Territory, particularly Bwari and some other areas that have witnessed security challenges. 6. “Yes, I’m aware that sometimes too, the press overblow what is happening, but all of us are concerned about the Federal Capital Territory that houses virtually every Nigerian and we owe a duty to make sure that this place is safe. 7. “We will do all we can and we assure Nigerians who reside here that there is no need for panic. We are taking every step to make sure that those challenges are things that we must have to resolve. 8. “So, this meeting is practically to look into such challenges and see how we will be able to resolve the problems and that’s why we invited all the council chairmen because they also have a responsibility in their various Area Councils. So, we will put our heads together and come up with solutions”, the Minister stated. 9. Noting that Area Council Chairmen also have a duty to ensure safety in their various domains, the Minister called on them to also live up to their responsibilities. 10. The Minister said he has reports about Area Council Chairmen who abdicate their responsibilities and travel, warning that such would not be accepted. 11. Barrister Wike said the recent strike by the Nigerian Union of Teachers, is such an an example of the Council Chairmen needing to function better, since the primary schools are under their purview. 12. According to the FCT Minister, “This time around, we will not be happy where area Council Chairmen will abdicate their responsibilities and travel out. We have gotten reports that Council Chairmen travel anytime and if anything happens, of course, they will not call anybody’s name. They will call the FCT Minister. 13. “Recently, the NUT has embarked on a strike. It is not because of our fault. It is the Area Councils. Primary schools are under the purview of the Area Councils. But again, it will look as if the Ministers are doing nothing. But that is not our responsibility. However, we cannot fold our hands. We have invited them to a meeting this afternoon to see how we can also resolve the problem.” 14. “So, the Council Chairmen should know you must live up to your responsibilities. It’s not everything that happens, they will say it’s the Ministers that are not taking steps. 15. The security meeting also had in attendance FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr Shehu Hadi Ahmed, the Director, Department of Security Services, Mr Adamu Gwary and heads of the various security agencies in the FCT. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 16/01/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/478 PHOTO CAPTION FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike flanked by the Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud and heads of Security agencies during the Emergency FCT Security Committee meeting on Tuesday, 1th January 2024.
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| Politics › Wike's Visit To Ndoni Kingdom by Dannupawa(op): 6:10pm On Jan 14, 2024 |
FCT Minister Chief (Barrister) Nyesom Wike over the weekend was a guest of Chief Felix Obuah for a New Year thanksgiving event at Ogba/Egbema/ Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. he addressed a mammoth cloud where he described Chief Obuah as a man of character. he also paid a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of the community. PHOTOS ARE COURTESY OF OFFICE OF DIRECTOR OF PRESS, FCT MINISTER'S OFFICE.
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| Politics › Wike Expresses Displeasure At Security Lapses, Pace Of Work On Abuja Metro Rail by Dannupawa(op): 7:24pm On Jan 12, 2024 |
... SAYS MAY 2024 COMPLETION DATE IS STILL ATTAINABLE 1. In his determination to ensure that ongoing projects in the Federal Capital Territory are completed within schedule, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, on Thursday, January 11, 2024, carried out an inspection tour of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit Scheme also known as the Abuja Light Rail Project. 2. Accompanied by senior officials of the FCTA and the construction company, the Minister visited the Abuja Metro Station in the Central Business District and the Kukwaba II Train station, as well as the station’s access road, still under construction. 3. The FCT Minister explained that the visits to the station were necessited by the need for him to see for himself, the pace and quality of work on the light rail project in preparation for the commissioning ceremony scheduled for May 2024. 4. Barrister Wike who expressed dissatisfaction with observable security lapses at the Abuja Metro Station, lamented that the theft and vandalism of rail infrastructure were still happening, despite the security contract meant to secure the facilities. 5. The Minister also bemoaned the absence of perimeter fencing around the metro station, saying that the absence could be the reason for the continued theft and vandalism of rail infrastructure. 6. .Barr. Wike therefore promised to immediately look into the issue, adding that a different approach would be adopted to address the security challenges. 7. He said: “When we visited the metro station, I discovered that there are issues of security lapses and I remember when I came for the first time after our inauguration, I did say that they have to work on the issue of security by putting on the fence around the metro station in order to ward off criminals. 8. “Unfortunately, that has not been done. To my surprise, I discovered that the contract was not even awarded to CCECC. It’s a different contract that was awarded by the FCT and this is my first time of hearing that and we are going to take it up immediately to see that it is put in place because you can’t talk about operation when you have not addressed the issue of security.” He therefore directed that the security contractors ensure improved security in the stations. 9. The Minister also expressed displeasure with some aspects of the designs in both stations especially the lack of central cooling systems and poor design of the access road at Kukwaba station. 10. In the words of the Minister: “From what I have seen, the designs are very poor. Whoever may have approved the designs is unfair to Nigerians. I’ve told CCECC that this kind of design is not even acceptable in their own country and if I had known before now, I would not have promised Mr. President that it would be ready”. 11. The Minister said “The design of the access roads linking to the various stations, those who conceptualized it, people will always talk about money and so they rush into things without properly evaluating and seeing the benefit it will accrue to the residents and to the users. The conceptualization is not the best, but again what do you do? This is what is on ground. We have to see how we can finish it on time. 12. The Minister hinted that although his tour of the projects has created doubts on the possibility of meeting the May 2024 deadline for their completion and commissioning, he remained optimistic that with hard work and commitment on the part of all those concerned, the scheduled commissioning dates in May were still attainable. 13. He said “But be it as it may, we still have to work round the clock to see that we achieve our results and I’ve also directed that the stations must be cleaned. All the things that are not there must be provided. There will be no room for excuses at all. 14. He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has released the funds for the projects, adding that he would not be happy if by May , the FCT is not able to operate the metro line. “It will be very disastrous for me”, the Minister said, adding that excuses would not be accepted. 15. According to him: “That’s why it’s not good for you to be in the office. You have to go and see things for yourself and not depend on the reports coming from the field. You can imagine if I am sitting in the office and then depending on the reports from those who said they are in the field, by the time I will come here in May, I will be messed up. But I thank God that I came to see things for myself.” 16. “But frankly speaking, knowing where I’m coming from, having presided over projects like this, I’m not in a happy mood at all". 17. Also on the tour were the Permanent Secretary, Mr Olusade Adesola, the MD of the CCECC, Mr David Wang the Mandate Secretary of the Transportation Secretariat, Arch. Ubokutom Nyah and senior officials of the FCTA and the CCECC. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE MINISTER 11/01/2024 FCTA/ODP/PR/ PHOTO CAPTIONS 1. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike flanked by officials of the FCTA and CCECC during his tour of the Abuja Metro Station 2. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (4th left) at the Kukwaba Station during his tour of facilities of the Abuja Light Rail Project 3 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (3rd left) flanked by the Permanent Secretary, FCTA Mr Olusade Adesola (1st left) Secretary Transportation Secretariat, FCTA, Arch. Ubokutom Nyah (4th left), MD CCECC David Wang (3rd right) and officials of the FCTA and CCECC during the Minister's tour of the Kukwaba train station on Thursday. 4 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (3rd left) pointing out an object of interest to the MD CCECC Mr David Wang during the Minister's visit to the Abuja Metro Station on Thursday 5 L_R: Senator Mao Ohuambuwa, MD CCECC Mr David wang, FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike and Secretary Transportation Secretariat, FCTA Arch Ubokutom Nyah during the tour Minister's tour of Abuja Light Rail Projects on Thursday 6 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (2nd left) leading officials of the FCTA and CCECC on a tour of the Abuja Metro Station on Thursday.
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| Politics › Wike Inspects Ongoing Projects In Abuja (Pictures) by Dannupawa(op): 10:31pm On Jan 04, 2024 |
… ASSURES OF THEIR COMPLETION BY MAY 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike on Thursday, January 4, 2024 carried out an inspection tour of ongoing projects in the Federal Capital Territory. 12 Likes 1 Share
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| Politics › Wike's 2024 New Year Message To Residents Of The Fct by Dannupawa(op): 8:29am On Jan 01, 2024 |
1. On behalf of the FCT Administration, I extend my warm and heartfelt greetings to all the residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as we usher in the New Year, 2024. 2. We thank the Almighty for the gift of life to witness the dawn of a new year and pray that He guides us through it successfully, meeting all our aspirations and goals. 3. Let me begin by saying that the successes recorded in 2023 under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the promises inherent in the Renewed Hope Agenda will serve as a blue print as we implement our development agenda for the FCT. 4. The promises embedded within the Renewed Hope Agenda resonate deeply with our aspirations for the FCT as they encapsulate our dedication to enhancing infrastructure, inclusive growth, and fostering a sustainable environment conducive to economic empowerment and social well-being. 5. Over the past few months, we have made significant strides in various sectors, propelled by a commitment to excellence and innovation. Our efforts have been directed towards enhancing infrastructure, ensuring effective urban planning, bolstering healthcare facilities, improving education, and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. 6. In the year ahead, we will commit to implementing robust policies and initiatives that will bolster the development of the FCT and ensure that it continues to thrive as a model of excellence in all ramifications. 7. In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, our development plans for the Federal Capital Territory for 2024 encompasses several key areas including the following: i. Infrastructure Development: We aim to continue on our current course of accelerated infrastructural development including road construction, public transportation with re-opening of the Abuja Metro System and the expansion of essential amenities such as water supply and electricity to meet the demands of the ever increasing FCT population. ii. Economic Empowerment: we remain committed to fostering economic growth involving the creation of an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, promoting entrepreneurship, and initiating programs that provide employment opportunities for our youth. We intend especially to focus attention on the tourism sector which hitherto had remained largely untapped and which has the potentials of being a major revenue earner for the FCT. iii. Social Welfare: We are dedicated to advancing social welfare programs that prioritize healthcare, education, and housing, ensuring that every resident has access to essential services and quality living conditions. We will intensify efforts to enhance educational institutions, equip our youth with the necessary skills, and create opportunities for their holistic development. iv. Sustainable Development: we are also determined to promote sustainability practices that preserve the environment, such as green initiatives, waste management, and renewable energy projects. We are also dedicated to implementing robust urban planning and renewal strategies and initiatives which includes the removal of shanties and slums and a renewed commitment to adherence to the dictates of the Abuja Masterplan. v. Community Engagement and Inclusivity: We also recognize the importance of engaging with our diverse communities and fostering inclusivity. Hence, we will continue to prioritize dialogue, participation, and collaboration with residents to address their needs effectively. vi. Security: I wish to reaffirm the Administration's unwavering commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of all residents. Security remains a top priority, and we will continue to support the efforts of the security agencies in keeping the FCT safe. While we will remain vigilant and responsive by adapting to evolving threats, I equally call on residents to play their roles by cooperating with security agencies by providing much needed information should the need arise. 8. As we embark on this journey into the New Year together, I urge all residents of the FCT all to join hands with the Administration in our efforts to build a stronger, more prosperous, and harmonious capital territory 9. Your support and cooperation, especially in the prompt payment of taxes, and active participation in the overall development of the FCT are invaluable. 10. Finally, I wish also to enjoin all residents of the FCT to rally behind and support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This transformative vision is poised to bring about positive change and elevate our nation to new heights. 11. President Tinubu's commitment to good governance, economic prosperity, and social development aligns seamlessly with our collective aspirations for a better Nigeria and a Federal Capital Territory which will be the pride of all of us. 12. I once more wish you and your loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and prosperous New Year! EZENWO NYESOM WIKE CON HONOURABLE MINISTER, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY
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| Politics › President Tinubu Should Be Appreciated For Intervening In Rivers State – Wike by Dannupawa(op): 12:24am On Dec 25, 2023*. Modified: 10:16am On Dec 25, 2023 |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJkY3XgYNCk?si=hTuqgCBDl9QCKbgO ...PLEDGES TO WORK FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PRESIDENT 1. The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has said President Tinubu should be appreciated for intervening in the political situation in Rivers State. 2. Speaking during the 20th Wedding Anniversary/Thanksgiving of Hon Dr & Dr (Mrs) George-Kelly D.A. Alabo at The Kings Assembly Church, on Sunday, 24th December, Wike said it was strange that the same people who went to beg President Bola Tinubu to intervene in Rivers State issues are the ones now saying he lacks the constitutional power to intervene. 3. The Minister, who explained that he was not the one who went to the President to seek for his intervention added that the President must however be appreciated for his fatherly role. 4. He said; "We must thank Mr President for interfering and intervening, but I was not even the one who went to the President to seek for his intervention. 5. They were saying "President intervene, President intervene, and President intervened, they are now saying Mr President has no constitutional power to have intervened. But they were the same people who sought the President’s intervention and he has intervened to bring peace. They are now turning around to say no, the President does not have the constitutional power." 6. "No matter what circumstances, if Mr President invites me to a meeting and tells me to do something, within 24 hours I will carry it out. Mr President invited us and said do this, do this and this. You agreed, but later, you started saying he has no power to intervene. As for me, I have subjected myself to the peace process." 7. He went on to advise those taking sides in the political crisis in the State not to fall for political lies and propaganda but to always seek the truth as he disclosed the stories of him making demands on the state are false. He said, "leave blackmail and propaganda, there is nothing I am looking for in the state. The truth would eventually come out." 8. The Minister, who said there are rules in every career insisted that politicians must learn to follow the rules, "Being a Pastor, there are rules. Being a traditional ruler, there are rules. If you are aspiring to be a politician, know that there are also rules you must obey. I was Governor, I also obeyed rules and that didn’t stop me from performing my functions. That’s why you can see me with leaders. I would have thrown them away too, but I didn’t. 9. If you get to the top and destroy the ladder, I don’t know how you will come down." 10. While saying that power and money can build or destroy people, the FCT Minister said he had never for one day, done anything to bring the State down. 11. "As Governor, I fought many States to win back our oil wells. The money we are getting from those oil wells today is not in my pocket. Rather, it is for the benefit of the State." 12. Speaking further, he said "We must tell our people the simple truth. I have done my own part and I am happy. I am doing well in Abuja too. There is nothing I am looking for in this State now. 13. Cautioning people fueling ethnic division in the state the FCT Minister said" All of us, irrespective of who we are, we should know that Rivers State belongs to all of us irrespective of where you come from." " 14. He urged the church to continue to pray for peace to reign in the State and the country, and also pray for the President to succeed, saying "if the President does not succeed, all of us will suffer it. 15. "As for me, I will continue to do my best to make sure that the President succeeds." 16. Dr Alabo served as the Commissioner of Works during the tenure of Chief Wike as governor of Rivers State. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 24/12/2023 PHOTOGRAPHS L-R FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, Dr (Mrs) George-Kelly Alabo, Hon (Dr) George-Kelly Alabo Pastor Chris Ugoh during the 20th wedding anniversary of Dr and Dr Mrs George Kelly Alabo at the Kings Assembly Church, Port Harcourt on Sunday, 24th December, 2023 2 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike addressing the congregation during the church service marking the 20th wedding anniversary of Dr and Dr Mrs George Kelly Alabo at the Kings Assembly Church, Port Harcourt on Sunday, 24th December, 2023
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| Politics › 2023 Christmas: Wike's Message To FCT Residents by Dannupawa(op): 9:44pm On Dec 24, 2023 |
1. On behalf of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, I hereby extend my heartfelt greetings to all the residents of the Federal Capital Territory for the 2023 Christmas which is a season that transcends borders and, brings people together in a spirit of love, compassion, and goodwill. 7 Likes
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| Politics › Fct Minister Receives Ambassador Of Somalia To Nigeria by Dannupawa(op): 10:45pm On Dec 14, 2023 |
...Pledges support for Foreign Missions 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has pledged the commitment of the FCT Administration to making the FCT more comfortable for its guests, especially Foreign Missions. 2. The FCT Minister made the pledge when he received the Ambassador of Somalia to Nigeria, His Excellency, Jamal Mohammed Barrow who paid him a courtesy visit in his office on Thursday, December 14, 2023. 3. The FCT Minister, who also assured of the support and cooperation of the FCT Administration for Foreign Missions, equally promised to approve the request for land allocation to enable the construction of the Somali Chancery in Abuja. 4. He said, “We are here to make things comfortable for our guests. Whatever you think that FCT will do, do not hesitate to let us know. We are always willing to cooperate with our guests, particularly foreign missions”, 5. “We will immediately call for the file so that you can have your parcel of land to be able to build your own chancery. I can assure you that after this discussion, I will call for the file so that you can have it approved and start building your Chancery”, he added 6. The FCT Minister, while noting that Nigeria and Somalia share a similar history of civil wars, also pledged the readiness of the FCT Administration to pass on its city development experiences to Somalia as the country seeks to develop its capital city of Mogadishu. 7. Also responding to the invitation by the Envoy to visit the city of Mogadishu in order to have a better experience of how it looks, the FCT Minister assured that he will make out time to visit the city. 8. The Minister said, “Mogadishu is a city, the capital of Somalia. We would also love to have the experience of how the city looks like. So, it is our belief that we will work out the arrangement to see how we can share things and pass on experiences in terms of development of cities.” 9. Speaking earlier, Ambassador Mohammed Barrow said his visit to the FCTA was aimed at seeking the support and cooperation of the FCT Administration in developing the city of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. 10. The Ambassador explained that Somalia, having shifted from the unitary system of government to federalism, following its prolonged periods of conflicts, sees Nigeria as the best role model, with similar experiences. 11. The Ambassador therefore expressed the desire of Somalia to leverage the experience of the FCT in developing the capital of city Mogadishu and called for the support of the FCT Administration. 12. He said: “We hope that Nigeria is the best role model for Somalia now because we have gone through the same experiences like the Civil war and we feel that Nigeria can be our example in the future, especially the capital city of Abuja”. 13. The Envoy also commended the FCT Minister for the improved security and good leadership in the FCT and expressed the hope that Abuja would in the future become one of the best capital cities in the world under the leadership of the Minister. 14. “Our President sends his congratulations to you as the Minister of the FCT and he hopes that you would one day be in Somalia in Mogadishu and he would receive you,” the Envoy added. 15. Present during the visit were, the SSA to the Minister on Legal and Multilateral Cooperation, Barrister Benedict Daudu, General Counsel, Barrister Salman Dako, SSA on land and Urban and Regional Development, Michael Chinda, and Secretary for Economic Planning, Revenue Generation and PPP, Mr Charles Elechi. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE MINISTER) 14/12/2023 FCTA/ODP/PR/472 1.FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (right) listening to the Somalian Ambassador to Nigeria HE Jamal Mohammed Barrow (left) during the envoy's visit to the FCTA on Thursday. 2. L-R: SSA to the FCT Minister on Land and Urban and Regional Planning, Michael Chinda, SSA on Legal and Multilateral Cooperation, Barrister Benedict Dauda, Somalian Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Jamal Mohammed Barrow, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Special Adviser to the Ambassador Dr Benedict Ocheoha, Secretary for Economic Planning, Revenue Generation and PPP, Mr Charles Elechi, and General Counsel, FCTA, Barrister Salman Dako during the envoy's visit to the FCTA on Thursday 3. Somalian Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Jamal Mohammed Barrow presenting a gift to the FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike (right) during his visit to the FCTA on Thursday.
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| Politics › Fcta Staff Felicitate Wike On His 56th Birthday by Dannupawa(op): 8:51am On Dec 14, 2023 |
…Hold surprise birthday reception for him 1. Staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, hosted a surprise birthday reception for FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. 2. The gathering was organized by staff members led by the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud and Mandate Secretaries to felicitate the Minister on his 56th birthday. 3. The surprise celebration took place at the entrance of the FCT Minister’s office at Area 11 Garki Abuja, where the Minister was greeted by a chorus of solidarity songs and happy birthday wishes. 4. The staff members, during the celebration also presented the Minister with beautiful birthday cards, cakes and life sized portraits of himself. Speaking during the event, FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud described the day as special and thanked God for the gift of life, strong health and prosperity, adding that the birthday party had been organized by the staff to show their love for the Minister. 5. Barrister Wike who was genuinely surprised, in his response, thanked the staff for the surprise reception and for their show of love. 6. The Minister stated that he was at the Presidential Villa when he received a call from the Minister of State to come to the office for an official engagement only to be greeted by the surprise reception., 7. He thanked the staff for the kind gesture and assured that he will continue to work for the benefit of the FCT and her residents. 8. The reception was characterized by cultural dances and birthday songs by the staff and guests who were present at the event. 9. Also present during the birthday celebration were the Executive Secretary FCDA, Engr Shehu Hadi Ahmed, Directors and other senior officials of the FCTA. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE FCT MINISTER) 13/12/2023 FCTA/ODP/PR/471 PHOTOGRAPHS 1. FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud (3rd left) congratulating the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike during the reception held for him at the FCTA for his birthday on Wednesday. 2. L-R. SSA On Environment and Waste Management, Dr Fred Kpakol, Secretary for Transportation, Arch. Ubokutom Nyah, FCT Minister of State Dr Mariya Mahmoud, FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, Secretary for Area Council Hon. Bitrus Garki and Secretary for Women Affairs Mrs. Dayo Benjamins-Laniyi during the mini reception held for the FCT Minister for his birthday on Wednesday. 3.FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike (4th left) flanked by the Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud (3rd left) and Mandate Secretaries of the FCTA during the mini reception held in his honour on Wednesday. 4 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (3rd left) assisted by the Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud (2nd left) and senior officials of the FCTA, cutting his birthday cake during a mini reception held in his honour on Wednesday. 5 FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom being welcomed by the Minister of State and officials of the FCTA to surprise reception on his birthday on Wednesday 7 Likes
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| Politics › Fct Minister Flags Off Rehabilitation Of Roads In Asokoro District by Dannupawa(op): 9:38pm On Dec 07, 2023 |
...SPEAKS ON COMPLETION OF VICE PRESIDENT’S RESIDENCE 1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has flagged off the resurfacing and rehabilitation of existing roads in the Asokoro District of the FCT. 2. Conducting the flag-off exercise at the AYA round-about in Abuja on Thursday, December 7, 2023, the Minister disclosed that the rehabilitation project was part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 3. He added that the President has given a marching order to the FCT Administration to do everything humanly possible to ensure that the city of Abuja becomes what it should be, stressing that the President is committed to the welfare and upliftment of the lives of residents of the FCT. 4. Barrister Wike also disclosed that the FCT Administration will soon flag off the resurfacing of roads in Maitama and Wuse Districts of the FCT and assured that the projects would be completed before May 29, 2024 during the first year anniversary of Mr President in office. 5. The FCT Minister who noted that the FCTA has available funds from revenue generated internally and the federal allocation, to carry out the road rehabilitation exercise, also pledged his commitment to the delivery of the mandate of the President in the FCT. 6. Stressing that the FCT Administration will not be distracted by critics of government policies, the Minister insisted that the FCT Administration has taken the decision to do what is best for the generality of people as mandated by the President. 7. Speaking on the recent demonstrations against some of the policies of the FCT Administration, Barrister Wike said the administration will remain focused and courageous in taking decisions favourable to residents of the FCT. 8. He said “The policies you make, it may not favour some people, but what is important is the generality of the people, not few people who benefit at the detriment of others”. 9. Speaking on the construction of the Vice President’s residence which has been a subject of public discourse, the Minister clarified that the contract was awarded in 2010 by the Federal Government to Julius Berger, at the cost of N7 billion, adding that the project was abandoned for 13 years. 10. He said the FCT Administration, as a responsible government is duty bound to complete the project to avoid the wastage of tax payers’ money, adding that the project has duly been sent to the Bureau of Public Procurement, with the approval of the President, for the final nod of how much will be spent. 11. The Minister said, “People should not be sentimental and telling lies. We did not award that contract. All we are merely doing, because of our policy of not leaving other project to be abandoned, we felt we should continue with those projects”. He therefore called for the support of FCT residents for the policies and programmes of government. 12. Also speaking on the imperative of the road rehabilitation exercise, the Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud said FCT roads over the years have suffered the effect of time and usage, leading to portholes, uneven surfaces and general deterioration. 13. She said the rehabilitation of the roads mark a significant step towards revitalization of infrastructure and enhancing the overall quality of life of FCT residents, saying that it reflects the commitment of the FCT to safety and economic prosperity. 14. Noting that improved road surfaces mean safer journeys for commuters in the FCT as well a reduction of accidents and vehicular damages, Dr Mahmoud added that the exercise will also improve the pride and beauty of the communities in the FCT. She commended the FCT minister for the bold steps taken to carry out the rehabilitation works and called for the understanding of road users during the period of the exercise. 15. In their separate remarks, the Chairmen, Senate and House of Representatives Committees on FCT, Senator Ibrahim Bomai and Hon. Aliyu Mukhtar Betara, respectively promised to cooperate with the FCT Administration to ensure the success of all projects in the FCT. 16. On his part, the MD Arab Contractor - the construction company in charge of the project, Engr. Mohammed El-Edaros thanked the FCT Minister for his support and also assured that the project would be completed within schedule 17. Dignitaries present during the exercise include the Chairmen of Abuja Municipal and Kwali Area Councils, Christopher Maikalangu and Danladiu Chiya respectively, Chairman, FCT Council of Chiefs and the Ona of Abaji, Alhaji Adamu Yunusa, the FCT Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusade Adesola, the Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmed, Mandate Secretaries, Directors and other senior officials of the FCT Administration. ANTHONY OGUNLEYE DIRECTOR OF PRESS (OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER) 7/12/2023 FCTA/ODP/PR/470 PHOTOS 1. FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike acknowledging cheers from residents of the FCT, following the flagging off of resurfacing of roads in Asokoro District of Abuja on Thursday. 2. FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud and the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike during the flagging off of resurfacing of roads in Asokoro District of Abuja on Thursday. 3. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike (right) and the Chairman, House Committee on the FCT Hon Aliyu Betara during the flagging off of resurfacing of roads in Asokoro District of Abuja on Thursday. 4. FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike making his remarks during the flagging off of resurfacing of roads in Asokoro District of Abuja on Thursday 5. FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike (2nd left) flanked by the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, (1st left), and Sen. Mao Ohuanbuwa (3rd left) and other dignitaries during the flagging off of resurfacing of roads in Asokoro District of Abuja on Thursday.
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