National
Nyesom Wike’s impressive giant strides in FCT management
By Dr Yusuf John Suberu
Before President Bola Tinubu assumed office May 29, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, was faced with the challenge of abandoned projects especially in the area of road infrastructure.
The Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda was, however, expected to, among other things, complete ongoing projects and transform the FCT into a more habitable and economically vibrant city.
When Nyesom Wike was appointed Minister of FCT in August 2023, He vowed to deliver on Tinubu’s mandate and administer the territory in compliance with the Abuja Master Plan.
Therefore, to state that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has witnessed impressive strides under the leadership of Wike, would be stating the obvious.
However, Wike said that his administration will block all financial leakages hindering the completion of projects within the territory.
Wike said this on his verified Meta page (Facebook) after he and the Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmud, inspected the Usuma Water Supply Project, Gurara Road and other projects being executed by the FCTA.
The minister lamented the existence of abandoned projects across the territory and promised to provide adequate funding to complete them.
He promised to overhaul the engineering services and correct systemic issues responsible for the abandonment of projects.
The minister particularly pointed out that some of the contracts were awarded in 2007; some in 2011, while others were awarded between 2015 and 2017, but all abandoned.
To address these challenges, the minister summoned all the contractors handling different projects in the FCT to a meeting to know what the problems were and how to get them back to site.
“Our problem is funding,” the contractors lamented while assuring the Minister that they would get back to work if they were mobilised.
In the long run, Wike got most of the contractors back to site after agreeing on a payment plan with money from the FCT Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and budgetary allocations.
The Minister personally inspected the execution of the projects and kept the contractors on their toes to ensure quality and timely delivery of the projects.
In a short span of time, Wike has demonstrated his decisiveness and efficiency by appointing and inaugurating mandate secretaries. Additionally, he initiated the rehabilitation and resurfacing of abandoned roads across the county, a significant undertaking that will greatly enhance transportation infrastructure.
Moreover, He successfully facilitated the removal of the FCT from the Treasury Single Account of the federal government. This achievement has granted the FCT greater autonomy over its resources, fostering local development and prosperity.
Recognizing the importance of a competent civil service, Wike established the FCT Civil Service Commission. This move ensures career progression for civil servants, promoting professionalism and efficiency within the FCT administration.
In the same vein, he inaugurated the first Secretariat for Women Affairs in the FCT, demonstrating his commitment to gender equality and empowerment.
One of the completed projects is the construction of the official residence of the Vice President, which was awarded in 2010 but abandoned.
Another project was the rehabilitation of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit (ARMT) system, now ready for commercial operations, access roads to the train stations and parking lots.
The minister equally completed the resurfacing of 189 roads covering 57 km within the Abuja city centre.
Wike also completed the interchange bridge, linking Wuye and Wuse I District under the provision of Wuye District Infrastructure project.
Other completed projects included the renovation of the FCT minister’s residence in Life Camp and the construction of 11km access road from the Airport Expressway to Kuje Township.
Addressing the concerns of the FCT residents, Wike took steps to rehabilitate street lights, illuminating substantial areas of the territory at night. In addition, he prioritized the security of lives and property in the FCT, implementing measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
He assured that other ongoing projects would be completed by December, before awarding another set of abandoned projects.
Some of the ongoing projects included the rehabilitation and resurfacing of 366 roads in Wuse, Garki, Asokoro and Maitama Districts, covering 117km.
Also ongoing are the rehabilitation of District Hospital Gwarimpa, Cottage Hospital Gwagwalada and District Hospital Utako, provision of access road to Kabusa Garden Estate, and Greater Abuja Water Supply Project.
The construction of one Service Carriageway of Inner Northern Expressway from Ring Road III to Ring Road IV, as well as120km rural roads across the six Area Councils were also ongoing. Other ongoing projects include the rehabilitation of Federal Secretariat Phase I and the rehabilitation of 19 public primary and secondary schools across the territory.
The area of security was not left out, as the Wike administration mobilised the Army and Police to comb the Bwari, Mpape and Kuje forests where bandits and kidnappers had kidnapped people.
The swift and sting operation led to the rescue of abductees. Security so far in the FCT has improved. On education, healthcare and water, the minister has also taken measures to improve the sector.
The Traditional institution also had it fair share as vehicles were given to them in order to improve security in their domains. Today,the Abuja metropolis are having a new look. One chance robbery has dropped drastically with mass arrests of culprits.
Reacting to the massive growth, FCT residents described Wike as an epitome of greatness and inspiration, worthy of emulation.
Olubiyo Adepegba, a businessman said that Tinubu-led administration was really working and deserved a high commendation.
“Sincerely, if you ask me how happy I am, I cannot even express myself because these roads have been abandoned for years. Look at Wuye for example; it is easy to ply that road now without unnecessary traffic or holdup.
“I believe it is ongoing, because if Wike can achieve all these in nine months, trust me, before His tenure expires, FCT will be “Nigeria Japan”, he said.
I cannot even imagine how one Man will turn things around like this within a space of nine months. It is unbelievable if told but seeing is believing and that is what we have seen in FCT, said a resident in Area 1.
Dr Yusuf John Suberu is the founder, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dr Yusuf Suberu Foundation.
By Our Reporter
The Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited TSSNL has thrown his weight behind the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu come 2027.
The High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemukpolo Tompolo, ibe Ebidouwei of Ijaw nation and Chairman , Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited TSSNL has also described the ascension of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the leadership of Nigeria as divine, timely and desiring , who is driving the country’s success under unusual situations.
While further describing President Tinubu as a special breed of personalities who thrives in governance were others blatantly fail, as well as an enigma’ who fits this special breed of men with such great placement.
This was contained in a statement issued and signed by the High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemukpolo Tompolo on Saturday to mark the 73 birthday commemoration of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu held on Friday tagged
“EYIN LOKAN L’EEKAN SI (IT’S YOUR TURN FOR ANOTHER 4 YEARS!) ,” he referred to the unusual movement and trajectory achievements in all area of Nigeria’s political development .
Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemukpolo further said over the years , President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had built bridges and laid foundations of friendship tirelessly, made personal sacrifices and endurances.
With determination to achieve great success, you were not weighed down , waned or broken for a moment in your zeal to achieve greater society.
He used the opportunity to extend the gratitude of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited to Nigeria’s President on his special day , particularly in curbing the country’s crude oil theft and increasing daily production from a low ebb of 600,000 barrels per day to 1.8M barrels in recent times .
He listed the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu just two years in the office which included doubling Nigeria’s aggregate revenue to 9.1 trillion, reduction in revenue on debt servicing from 97% to 68% and payment of $5M in outstanding foreign exchange obligations.
The resurgence of oil and gas sector , creation of Compressed Natural Gas CNG, initiative ,establishment of Students Loan Fund and processing of over 45 Billion students loan among many others.
He lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the creation of 400,000 jobs , through MSME’s and thr realization of the Nigeria Maritime University Okerenkoko, Wari, Delta state , including the payment of minimum wage to workers across board.
He promised to support his re-election bid come 2027, saluting him on the special day with a God- given talent in human capital development.
The release further reads…
Dear Asiwaju
EYIN LOKAN L’EEKAN SI (IT’S YOUR TURN FOR ANOTHER 4 YEARS!) .
“Every generation creates for itself, a special breed of personalities.”
“For such enigmas, they strive better, or more still, their endeavours thrive more seamlessly under unusual circumstances. ”
“Most often, they thread on paths most dreaded, and they succeed where others fail. ”
“Mr. President, you undoubtedly fit into this special breed of men with such great placement.”
“On this very memorable moment of your birthday today, we reflect on the unique trajectory of your politics and leadership.”
“Over the decades, you dedicated a greater part of your youthful life, building bridges of friendship just as you tirelessly laid foundations.”
“In all these, you made personal sacrifices and endured challenges.”
“Your focus neither waned for a moment nor capitulated to the vagaries of all sorts as you kept faith with destiny armed with your incurable quest and determination for a just and better society.”
“Mr. President, your life and leadership have been a true source of inspiration.”
“To us in TANTITA SECURITY SERVICES NIGERIA LIMITED (TSSNL), you stand out as the most innovative figure in the history of our great nation’s political evolution. I want to specially thank you for your support and encouragement in the war against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which ultimately culminated in the increase in the nation’s crude oil production from abysmal 600,000ppd to about 1.8mbpd. Sir, we count on your continuous intervention.”
“Although this is an occasion to felicitate with you and your family on your 73rd birthday, this open letter would not be complete without my listing some of your outstanding achievements that have silenced your detractors and changed the landscape of our beloved country for good:”
“• Doubling the aggregate revenues to over N9.1 trillion.”
“• Reduction in the revenue spent on debt service from 97% to 68%.”
“• Clearing $5 billion in outstanding foreign exchange obligations.”
“• Resurgence of the oil and gas sector.”
“• Creation of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative”
“• Establishment of the Students Loan Fund.”
“• Processing of N45.6 billion for students’ payment.”
“• Distribution of fertilisers and initiating a project to cultivate 10 million hectares of land.”
“*Transformation of the solid minerals to unlock $700 billion mining fortune.”
“*Monumental changes brought to the structure of refining and pricing in the petroleum sector by the removal of subsidy, as well as a more unified forex management system.”
” *Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway.”
” *Tax Administration Bills recently passed into Law by the National Assembly.”
“*The National Minimum Wage Act.”
*Creation of over 400,000 jobs through Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.
“*More important to us, the signing of the Bill establishing the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), Okerenkoko, Warri South West LGA, Delta State, into law.”
“And of these extra-ordinary records in 2 years!”
“On this special day, we salute your efforts and unfading commitment to nation building.”
“As you continue to deploy your God-given talents in human capital development, we pray that Almighty God grants you long life, strength, and wisdom to steer this nation to greater heights. ”
“Looking ahead, we are aware that another political outing is on the horizon. We will join other progressive-minded leaders and the good people of the Niger Delta and beyond to preach your gospel of continuity beyond 2027. ”
“As you mark 73 years today, we pray that God will grant you the grace and robust health to end your first term in an even more remarkable note of success. ”
” 2027? We are backing you solidly for your second term. Nothing can change our support, Sir!”
“It’s our prayer that God will keep you in robust health to complete your first term, well and strong and you go for second term without hitch, Insha Allah.”
“Truly, Eyin L’okan L’eekan si (It’s your turn again), Sir.”
“Once again, Happy birthday, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Nigeria’s beacon of hope.”
SIGNED:
HIGH CHIEF GOVERNMENT OWEIZIDE EKPEMUPOLO IBE-EBIDOUWEI OF IJAW NATION & CHAIRMAN, TANTITA SECURITY SERVICES NIGERIA LIMITED (TSSNL).
National
NESG Advises Federal Government to Maintain 2.2mbpd Crude Oil Production for 2025 Budget Viability
Dr. Tayo Aduloju, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), has recommended that the Federal Government sustain crude oil production at a level of 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) to ensure the feasibility of the 2025 budget.
During a media engagement in Abuja, where NESG presented its strategic vision for 2025 along with a macroeconomic outlook for the private sector, Aduloju emphasized the importance of maintaining this production level amidst historical fluctuations in Nigeria’s crude oil output. He highlighted three significant production benchmarks: 1.1 million bpd, 2.2 million bpd, and 2.8 million bpd, and their respective impacts on the national economy.
Aduloju remarked that achieving a production level of 2.2 million bpd is a realistic target, stating, “Reaching 2.2 million bpd, regardless of crude oil prices, is essential for a viable budget.” He noted that the government had successfully increased production from 1.1 million bpd to 2.2 million bpd and even to 2.8 million bpd, demonstrating that incremental growth in daily oil production is achievable.
Unveiling “The Arc of the Possible,” NESG’s strategic framework aimed at fostering Nigeria’s economic development, Aduloju reiterated that targeting 2.2 million bpd is realistic and within reach. This strategy emphasizes actionable solutions that promote growth and prosperity across key sectors in the short to medium term.
Achieving this production target, he explained, would positively influence the economy by stabilizing the foreign exchange market and increasing foreign earnings. This would also enhance government initiatives on deregulation, liberalization of the downstream sector, and effective regulatory governance.
However, Aduloju stressed the necessity of political stability for sustaining production levels. He called for immediate action to restore stability in Rivers State and continued funding for government security enhancement plans due to their critical role in national oil production and overall economic health.
He stated, “Effective implementation of stabilization reforms could potentially accelerate Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth to 5.5 percent by 2025.”
The NESG report, titled “Stabilisation in Transition: Rethinking Reform Strategies for 2025 and Beyond,” acknowledges the government’s efforts in addressing cross-sector challenges. It highlights the expected positive impacts of improved electricity supply and fuel availability, which are anticipated to reduce business disruptions, particularly for Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (NMSMEs), thereby enhancing productivity and economic performance.
Improved foreign exchange availability is expected to support operations in the manufacturing sector, which relies heavily on imported raw materials and intermediate inputs. In agriculture, addressing issues related to financing, storage, warehousing, and logistics will enhance sector performance.
Aduloju emphasized that the oil and gas sector remains vital for economic growth, contributing significantly to foreign exchange inflows, external balance resilience, and government revenue. He projected that the manufacturing sector would benefit from stabilization policies aimed at addressing power supply challenges and lowering input costs.
The NESG report forecasts a decline in inflation to 24.7 percent under optimal stabilization efforts, signaling improvement in the country’s macroeconomic stability. Effective coordination of fiscal and monetary policies is identified as crucial for achieving the anticipated reduction in inflation.
Aduloju noted that a relatively stable foreign exchange market, bolstered by increased supply and diminished speculative demand, will be key in curbing inflation. He highlighted that enhanced productivity across critical sectors, especially agriculture, is expected to significantly alleviate inflationary pressures in 2025.
“Increased agricultural output will enhance food supply, mitigate scarcity, and ease food price inflation, a major contributor to overall inflation in the country. Moreover, improved security in food-producing regions will facilitate better access to farmlands and supply chains, further stabilizing food prices,” he concluded.
A courtroom drama unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja as Justice Ekwo openly dismissed the legitimacy of Barrister Pius Sunday Okeoma, who was representing the petitioner in the case involving former Minister of Special Duties, Kabir Tanimu Turaki, SAN.
During a court session, Justice Ekwo declared that Okeoma had no recognised standing in the case, as he had neither filed an appearance nor signed any documents related to the proceedings.
The judge’s remarks followed Okeoma’s previous attempt on 24 March to have the case transferred from its initial court, citing a lack of confidence in the judiciary.
On 28 March, Justice Ekwo firmly addressed Okeoma, stating, “As far as I am concerned, we do not know you in this court, and you have never appeared or filed any case here. This makes it illegal for you to be present.”
The judge subsequently referred the lawyer to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee for further action.
The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly from the Arewa Renaissance Group, which has raised concerns about the investigation’s integrity.
The group alleged possible collusion between investigating police officers and the petitioner, questioning the rapid pace at which the case was handled and the apparent lack of a fair hearing.
In a further twist, the father of the petitioner, Hadiza, publicly disowned Okeoma’s involvement, stating that his signature had been used in legal filings without his consent. He has since demanded that the lawyer withdraw from the case.
The Arewa Renaissance Group, through its coordinator, Usman Abba, has urged the Inspector General of Police to take decisive action.
The group has called for the immediate removal of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of the gender unit at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, citing poor investigative procedures, conspiracy, and defiance of an earlier directive from the IGP.
The directive had instructed that the case be transferred to the Department of Force Intelligence, a move that was allegedly ignored.
The unfolding controversy continues to generate debate over the handling of high-profile cases and the transparency of Nigeria’s judicial process.