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Renewed Hope Agenda : Dr. Emeka Agbasi: A Beacon of Hope for Nigeria’s Highway Infrastructure
By Gambo Jagindi
As President Tinubu’s one-year anniversary approaches, Dr. Emeka Agbasi, Managing Director of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), has emerged as a shining example of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action. In just six short months, Dr. Agbasi has spearheaded a remarkable transformation at FERMA, driving a relentless pursuit of zero potholes on Nigeria’s highways.
His unwavering dedication and expertise have positioned FERMA for excellence, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision for a revitalized and efficient infrastructure. His achievements are a testament to the power of effective leadership and the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda on Nigeria’s development.
Dr. Agbasi’s innovative ‘Operation Connect Your Destination’ initiative has revolutionized federal roads, making travel easier and reducing congestion. This groundbreaking program has earned recognition and praise from the National Assembly, encouraging further initiatives like ‘Connect to Your Farm’ to support agriculture in the country.
The FERMA boss commitment to staff welfare and his open-door policy have fostered a productive and motivated work environment, driving the Agency’s progress. His determination to move the agency from reactive to preventive maintenance has led to significant improvements, as evident in ministerial KPI reports.
No doubt his accomplishments are a shining example of the Renewed Hope Agenda’s impact on Nigeria’s development. His leadership and expertise have transformed FERMA, positioning it for excellence and aligning with President Tinubu’s vision for a revitalized infrastructure. As we approach the President’s one-year anniversary, Dr. Agbasi’s achievements serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future for Nigeria’s highway infrastructure
Despite limited funds, he has achieved remarkable progress, transforming the Agency’s focus from reactive to preventive maintenance. This significant shift is evident in ministerial KPI reports, showcasing the power of effective leadership and teamwork.
His success can also be attributed to his collaborative leadership style, fostering a cordial working relationship with staff through an open-door policy. By prioritizing staff welfare, he has created a productive and motivated work environment, driving the Agency’s progress. His unwavering commitment to staff well-being has motivated employees to deliver exceptional performance, contributing significantly to the Agency’s progress.
Dr. Agbasi’s achievements in FERMA include:
– Effective maintenance of 5,910.05 kilometers of federal roads in Nigeria
– Made 15,947.53 kilometers of federal roads motorable
– Created 25,051 skilled and unskilled jobs, contributing to economic growth
– Initiated the “Operation Connect Your Destination” program, improving federal roads and reducing congestion
– Received recognition and praise from the National Assembly for his achievements
This trailblazer leadership and expertise have transformed FERMA, positioning it for excellence and aligning with President Tinubu’s vision for a revitalized infrastructure. Despite limited funds, Dr. Agbasi’s collaborative leadership style and commitment to staff welfare have driven remarkable progress, demonstrating the power of effective leadership and teamwork in achieving success.
Gambo Jagindi is a publisher, public affairs analyst writes from Abuja
… Raises concern over polygamy negative impact
… Says some men has over 50 children, can’t take care of them
By Abubakar Yunusa
The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, has advised men facing financial difficulties to limit themselves to one wife in order to better provide for and nurture responsible families.
He expressed concern over the negative impact of polygamy, noting that many family leaders are failing to fulfil their obligations.
During his address at the conclusion of the 30th annual Ramadan lecture of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), the Emir emphasised that while Islam permits men to marry more than one woman, this right does not necessarily mean that every man is financially capable of supporting multiple families.
He shared an example from his palace, where 192 families reside, with some men having more than 50 children. “How can someone adequately care for such a large number of dependents?” he questioned.
The Emir also called for changes in the Islamiyya education system to better incorporate teachings on the rights of girls. He believes this shift could lead to more progressive communities.
Furthermore, he criticised the judiciary for exacerbating societal issues, pointing to the case of a young woman sentenced to two years in prison over a small debt of N6,000. “When I visited the prison, I had only N200,000, yet I was able to secure the release of eight people,” he recounted.
The Emir noted that the palace frequently relies on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods to address challenges in areas such as marriage, inheritance, and land disputes, which he described as major sources of family strife.
In her remarks, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, called on the Ulama to encourage men to take greater responsibility in their homes.
She emphasised that many responsibilities have shifted to women, and it’s time for men to step up.
Meanwhile, Hajiya Nafisa Isah, the Amirah of FOMWAN Kaduna State, announced that the organisation is working on establishing a fully operational skills acquisition centre to empower both women and youth.
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
Residents of Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency have pledged their unwavering support for their representative, Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock, beyond 2027, citing his credible performance and commitment to the development of the constituency.
Speaking at a gathering of ward executives, stakeholders, community leaders, and youth groups at Mal. Agwai Gidan Mana Town Hall in Kachia on Tuesday, constituents praised Hon. Zock’s legislative achievements, infrastructure projects, and empowerment initiatives, which they say have significantly improved their lives.
Earlier, Hon. Zock hosted all ward executives of his constituency at the same venue, where a ₦30 million Ramadan and Lent palliative was distributed.
The APC Chairman, Kagarko LGA, Hon. Christopher Mailafia and ALGON CHairmen of both Kagarko and Kachia LGAs respectively, highlighted the lawmaker’s contributions to infrastructure, including improved road networks, better healthcare facilities, and educational support for students.
Similarly, Chairman APC Zone 3, Hon. Shehu Tafa, commended his efforts in job creation and youth empowerment, emphasizing that his programs have provided meaningful opportunities for young people.
“We have seen unprecedented development under Hon. Zock’s leadership, and we believe he deserves to continue beyond 2027 to complete the good work he has started,” said [Insert Name], a resident of Kachia.
Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock, who is currently serving his second term in the House of Representatives, has yet to make an official statement regarding his political future. However, his growing support base suggests that many constituents are eager to see him extend his tenure beyond 2027. Political observers note that if he decides to contest again, he is likely to enjoy strong grassroots backing due to his developmental strides.
In his remarks, Hon. Zock reiterated his commitment to ensuring that party executives and constituents benefit from the ruling party.
“I understand your role in the party’s success, and I also understand that you are often under-rewarded,” he stated.
As part of his support for party executives, he announced a monthly stipend initiative, providing ₦10,000 for each ward executive and ₦20,000 for each local government executive. He further revealed that a committee has been inaugurated to oversee account openings and data collection to ensure a smooth commencement of the program next month.
Additionally, Hon. Zock assured constituents of continued support in agriculture, promising fertilizer distribution and other resources to enhance farming activities.
He acknowledged that the progress seen in the constituency was made possible through the support of key political figures, including Hon. Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Kaduna State Governor Sen. Uba Sani, and President Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Therefore, I urge you all to give your maximum support to the APC at all levels to ensure more meaningful development and dividends of democracy,” he emphasized.
As a gesture of appreciation for party loyalty, Hon. Zock announced car gifts worth ₦7 million each for his former ward councillor and the local government party secretaries of Kachia and Kagarko LGAs. This follows last year’s distribution of car gifts to the two local government chairmen and other party stakeholders.
End..
By Amos Tauna, Kaduna
A group, the Caleb Danladi Foundation has donated essential food commodities to the Muslim community in Kwoi, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, to support them during Ramadan fast.
The gesture was warmly received on behalf of the beneficiaries by religious and community leaders, underscores the foundation’s commitment to unity and compassion, particularly in times of spiritual reflection.
It’s Founder, Captain Caleb Danladi Bako, while presenting the items stressed the need for solidarity and kindness, expressing hope that the donation would ease the burden on fasting families.
Captain Bako, urged them to uphold the virtues of the holy month, emphasizing the importance of unity, compassion, and love, which he noted strengthens communal bond.
Religious leaders, including the Chief Imam of Kwoi Central Mosque and the Chairman of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in Jaba LGA, praised the foundation’s unwavering support and urged more individuals to embrace acts of goodwill.
Notable stakeholders in the community, Mr. David Tuk and Mr. Monday Gyubok, lauded the philanthropic initiative and encouraged others to emulate such kindness.
They stressed the need for continued support to vulnerable groups within the community, particularly during times of religious observance.
The event also carried an emotional tone as community leaders extended condolences to Captain Danladi over the recent passing of his father, praying for strength for his family to bear the irreparable loss.
With a track record of humanitarian efforts spanning education, youth empowerment, and community development, the Caleb Danladi Foundation continues to strengthen social bonds through acts of generosity and interfaith harmony.