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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has vowed to put an end to sabotage and punish those stealing streetlights in the nation’s capital.

Wike said this on Thursday when he officially flagged off Lot 1 and 2 of the transformative ‘Light Up Abuja’ project, which involves the provision of integrated (hybrid) solar lighting across Abuja’s districts and expressways.

He disclosed that the project was designed to provide uninterrupted light across the various districts and expressways, adding that the initiative was an essential step towards improving security and the city’s aesthetic appeal.

The FCT Minister emphasised the importance of a well-lit Abuja, which he said was crucial for national pride and development, especially as the city approaches its 50th anniversary in February next year.

He expressed the belief that the Light Up Abuja project will dramatically transform the city within the next seven months and improve security.

According to him: ‘In the next seven months, it will be a different thing. Anybody coming to Abuja, not only will you see good roads, you will see the entire place being lit up’.

Wike, who also disclosed that the hybrid solar system comes with surveillance features, said it will enable the immediate identification of anyone attempting to vandalize or steal the facilities.

He said: ‘Criminals will run away because when there is light everywhere, by the time they come to steal our facilities, at least you know that people will see you’.

Recalling the challenges faced in tackling persistent darkness and sabotage in the FCT, the minister revealed that upon assumption of office, he met a situation where nearly 80 percent of the FCT was plunged into darkness at night, directly contributing to a rise in insecurity.

He also detailed the costly and ineffective cycle of maintenance, noting that previous maintenance contracts were often awarded to ‘political contractors,’ resulting in payments for maintenance without visible results-a practice he described as a ‘nightmare’.

To solve the recurring problems of darkness and infrastructure sabotage, Wike said the FCT Administration took a decisive action during an investment-driven trip with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Beijing in 2024, where key agreements were signed with two reputable international firms – Chinese Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) and Chinese Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to provide water to the satellite towns, which is currently ongoing, and to light up Abuja.

Furthermore, the Minister stated that the contracts stipulate that the companies were responsible for the full maintenance of the streetlights for four to five years, thereby eliminating the previous costly and ineffective system of perpetual maintenance.

Acknowledging the anticipated backlash from those who benefited from the old corrupt system, the Minister said the FCT Administration expects attacks from three main groups – the previous contractors who will now lose their lucrative maintenance contracts, criminal saboteurs who thrived in darkness to steal cables, and corrupt FCTA officials involved in generating maintenance files.

However, Wike said he is undeterred by any sentiments or political campaigns, emphasizing his commitment to the nation’s interest.

‘We have made a decision. This work must be done, and I will do it with the support of Mr. President, and that is what is key’, he asserted.

The Minister of State, FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, described the light up Abuja project as more than just poles and solar panels, but about bringing light where there was darkness, safety where there were fears, and hope where there were doubts, expressing optimism that the initiative will ensure that Abuja continues to shine at night.

Mahmoud extended profound appreciation to President Tinubu and the FCT Minister for their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the provision of vital infrastructure in the FCT.

Providing an overview of the Light up Abuja project, the Acting Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda stated that the contract was awarded in two lots to Messrs CCECC and CGC Nigeria Limited, adding that they were expected to complete the work within six months.

He said Lot 1 covers Maitama, Central Area, Wuse, and Asokoro districts, as well as the Airport Expressway, while Lot 2 covers Katampe, Katampe Extension, Jabi, Garki, Gudu, and Mabushi districts.

Dauda added that the scope of work includes supply and installation and Retro fitting of Integrated Hybrid Solar Street lighting, fittings of 300 watts solar powered lights with luminous blocks ranging from 7,500 lumens to 17,500 lumens along streets and expressways with other necessary accessories, installation of galvanized street light posts at locations where they need replacement or have been vandalized and installation of surveillance facilities for the street lights.

He added that the integrated hybrid solar street lighting system, when completed, will illuminate the city and help guard against theft and vandalism, and also provide other benefits like improved security of lives and properties, improved aesthetics and ambience in the streets at night, reduction of electricity bills, maintenance costs, and technical losses.

Managing Directors of CCECC and CGC Nigeria Ltd, Guan Shuai and Zhang Xiang, respectively, thanked President Tinubu and the FCT Minister for entrusting their companies with the key responsibility and pledged to deploy their best resources to deliver a world-class project that will make Abuja shine brighter and set a benchmark for sustainable urban development.

Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has called for stronger collaboration between the media and his administration to promote peacebuilding, democracy, and development in the state.

Speaking at a public lecture organised by the Katsina State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Radda, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, reaffirmed his commitment to open governance and urged journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in their reportage.

He cautioned against fake news, hate speech, and incitement, noting that the media plays a critical role in shaping public perception and ensuring societal stability.

He also recalled recent citizen engagements on security and governance, stressing that public contributions are vital for shaping responsive policies and building trust between the government and the people.

As part of his administration’s efforts to strengthen communication, Radda announced the approval of a full digital upgrade for Katsina State Television to align with global broadcasting standards.

During the event, the NUJ Katsina Council presented Governor Radda with the Pillar of Democracy Award in recognition of his support for journalism and exemplary leadership.

The award was received on his behalf by Dr. Zango.

Governor Radda also urged journalists to embrace developmental journalism that highlights both challenges and government interventions, citing examples in healthcare and education.

He encouraged the NUJ to invest in training and modern technology to enhance investigative reporting, transparency, and accountability.

Earlier, NUJ National President Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi called on journalists to focus on solution-driven reporting that addresses pressing issues in northern Nigeria, including poverty, education, and health, while advocating for mentorship, better welfare, and insurance cover for practitioners.

A renowned political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, will headline the maiden Discourse Series on Poverty Reduction in Lagos.

The event, scheduled for Friday, October 17, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Victoria Island, is organised by Conversation Media Limited to mark the United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

Themed ‘Pathways to Inclusive Development: Rethinking Communication, Policy and Partnership,’ the gathering will explore how communication, governance, and partnerships can be leveraged to break the cycle of poverty and reduce inequalities in Nigeria.

Utomi, founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL), will focus on rural poverty while drawing from global poverty alleviation strategies.

A major highlight will be the public presentation of the book Media and Poverty Reduction in Nigeria by Dr. Victor Ikem, CEO of Conversation Media Limited. The programme will also feature panel discussions, audience dialogue, networking sessions, and a book signing.

Organisers said the initiative goes beyond a book launch, describing it as the beginning of a sustained platform for solutions-driven engagement on poverty in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1 (No Poverty) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

Policymakers, academics, civil society leaders, media executives, and development practitioners are expected to attend what is described as a ‘strategic and impactful gathering.’

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Thursday launched the Flow with Confidence nationwide distribution of menstrual hygiene packs, a landmark initiative designed to support schoolgirls and promote menstrual health across the country.

Speaking at the launch in Gombe, Mrs. Tinubu described the intervention as vital to empowering young girls by ‘promoting knowledge, dignity, and confidence’ through improved menstrual hygiene.

In a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media Busola Kukoyi the First Lady said ‘in today’s modern world, no girl should have to miss school because of her inability to afford sanitary products.

‘It is unacceptable that our girls still continue to face significant challenges during their menstrual cycle, especially those in rural communities, who miss school days every month because they cannot afford sanitary pads’, she said.

The First Lady noted that many resort to unsafe alternatives or stay at home, causing them to fall behind academically and in some cases drop out of school.

She said the programme, under the Education framework of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), is meant to end this trend.

Mrs. Tinubu disclosed that all states and the Federal Capital Territory would each receive 10,000 packs of disposable sanitary pads through State First Ladies and RHI coordinators, targeting vulnerable schoolgirls in rural communities.

‘Today, I will be handing over 10,000 packs of disposable sanitary pads to the First Lady of Gombe State for distribution to 10,000 deserving girls in rural communities across the state. Each beneficiary will receive a one-year supply of the pads,’ she announced, while urging traditional rulers, religious leaders and community leaders to ensure the supplies reach the intended beneficiaries.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, and Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, both pledged federal support to scale up the initiative so that more girls in underserved areas benefit.

Gombe Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, commended the First Lady for the programme, as well as her interventions in health, agriculture, economic empowerment and education.

Mrs. Tinubu declared open the maiden Gombe State Health Summit, where she emphasised that health should be viewed as a driver of economic prosperity, social development, and national growth.

During her two-day visit to Gombe, the First Lady was also honoured with the traditional title of Sarauniya Yakin Kumo (Queen Warrior of Kumo) by the Emir of Akko, Alhaji Umaru Muh’d Atiku, in recognition of her contributions to national development.

Until he was appointed a placeholder while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was waltzing his way to power, the name was as silent as his personality, taciturn but focused, operating under the radar, but the eyes of the head-hunter had him in focus. That’s one of the strong points of a leader.the ability to select a value team

Masari continued to set tongues wagging until the issue of who would be the Vice President to run with the leader was settled, and like the shadow he cherishes, he stepped aside and disappeared from the radar, which made people wonder the type of character he was.

Masari had one thing going for him, like water, he neither contends nor confronts, he rather keeps his course and focus, a rare and uncommon strategist, but not raising his voice, the political firmament moved on as if he was not there.

Fast forward to his appointment as Special Adviser to the President on political matters, and his ways once again yielded a paradigm shift in political harvest that has left the nation reeling and trotting to catch up.

The effectiveness of Masari in his post has become a rare justification of a round peg in a round hole, which, before long, started like wildfire, pushing everything and everyone in one direction.

Till date, many people are wrongly accusing President Tinubu of coercing opposition to join him without knowing that the strategist is Masari, who has calmly and quietly worked behind the scenes in his usual manner to hone ways and means of winning others for the President with astounding success.

This manifested in a tsunami of defections into the ruling party, which has swept all corners of Nigeria, bringing with it defections from ward levels to local councils, state legislature, governors, national assembly members, and all manner of ranks to the extent that fears have gripped the opposition that the regime of Tinubu was aiming for a one-party state in the country.

Masari’s strategies from his near silent office has further stoked fears among those who seldom can understand what is going on that the President wanted to transit into a lifetime leader by staying beyond his constitutionally given terms without knowing that the secret was in the strategy of Masari who has the proper understanding of Nigeria’s politics was pulling the right strings while the President has given him free hand to handle the affairs of his office. The fact is that the duo of the President and Masari are perfect political combinations that achieve results, thereby making assurance doubly sure of the President’s reelection is a foregone conclusion.

Another top score of Masari is that his method of dispute resolutions for inter and intra-party affairs is top-notch and wins the undecided as well as opposition to the side of the President.

Masari has shown that there are people with near esoteric political understanding, but calmly and quietly operating outside the corridors of power and in the shadows.

With men of such capacity in the President’s team, it can only get better, while the opposition will be left reeling, looking for what hit them, while the President Surges ahead to take the crown.

Filmmaker Funke Akindele has responded to a social media troll who mocked her for packing food in the popular ‘yellow and black’ nylon bag.

The critic took to Snapchat to shade the movie star, writing: ‘Aunty Funke you are not posh at all. Why yellow and black nylon?’

Akindele clapped back with sarcasm, saying:

‘Oh maybe I need to go and get plastic bags from Macy’s or Nordstrom. Elenu shipoti, you can come and buy nylon for me. I already blocked you. It’s a privilege for you to be seeing my snap. At least you can see I am an elderly person even if I am not old enough to be your mum. Wide mouth.’

Her response quickly stirred reactions online. Many fans applauded the actress for putting the troll in check.

Others praised her humility, pointing out that even celebrities use regular items like everyone else.

The incident reflects the scrutiny public figures often face on social media, where even simple, everyday choices can attract criticism.

‘Leadership Made Easy for Young Minds’ is a 10-chapter, 50-page book that does not only inform but calls readers to action. It ensures that young minds do not just digest the content but act upon it, provoking their conscience and coherence. Every chapter rests on the other, flowing logically in a pyramid format.

The central concept of leadership is explicitly dealt with, tailored to resonate with the target audience, which are the teenagers. The book expands on why leadership is essential and its impact, especially in Chapters 1 and 3. It emphasises that leadership is not about titles or positions but about making decisions that benefit all.

The author, Adetola Ajibola, also presents leadership as a journey, debunking the idea that becoming a leader means one has arrived. Instead, leadership is shown as a growth process. The book offers a balanced perspective, exploring not only leadership itself but also the obstacles and challenges leaders face, reminding readers that leaders are not born perfect.

Real-life experiences and scenarios are included, with practical steps illustrated in Chapter 7. In Chapter 9, the author stresses the need to leave a legacy, pointing out that leadership is ultimately about results. Finally, the book highlights technology as a complement to leadership in today’s world.

The tone is simple, free of ambiguity, relevant and relatable to young minds-making it an effective guide for teenagers who aspire to lead. This book is highly recommended to aspiring leaders, teenage teachers, training institutions and schools. In it, they will find gems that would help teenagers become the leaders they are supposed to be.

The House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations has commended the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for upholding high safety standards at the Calabar Power Plant in Odukpani, Cross River State.

The Committee gave the commendation after an on-the-spot assessment of the 565MW facility, noting significant improvements since its last visit in 2018.

Chairman of the Committee, David Zacharias, said the inspection was aimed at ensuring that Nigerians work in safe environments and enjoy long, healthy lives.

He praised the staff for maintaining the plant, stressing that the health and safety of workers in the power sector are critical to both government and the economy.

‘We, the Safety Standards and Regulations Committee members, always appreciate when we step into any organisation and see that they have done very well. My impression here is positive and you also heard the same from my colleagues,’ Zacharias said.

He, however, noted that the visit was not only to commend but also to highlight areas requiring improvement.

‘When we come to a place like this, we must observe areas that need attention. What we are saying here is to encourage them to deepen their commitment to safety issues. We went round and saw their challenges, which we will take back to the government.

‘We are hopeful that by the time we return, some of the issues we observed would have been addressed,’ he added.

Specifically, the committee called for improvement in the work environment for staff, including better lighting, rest areas for shift workers, and adequate seating in offices.

The lawmakers, who were conducted around the plant by the Chief Operating Officer of the Calabar Power Plant, Engr. Ayoade Olanrewaju Bex, described the facility as one of the best they had visited in terms of safety standards and compliance.

Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the Executive Director, Generation, Abdullahi Kassim, an engineer, the General Manager, Generation Projects at NDPHC, Engr. Valerie Agberagba, said safety and standards remain top priorities for the company.

She stressed that the company’s workforce is central to its operations, adding that NDPHC would continue to improve the work environment for staff, particularly those at its power plants.

‘The visit of the House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations was very important to us. It gave us the opportunity to assess where we are in terms of health, safety, and compliance with regulations and standards at our power plants.

‘For me, it was an eye-opener. You could see that when they compared the 2018 report to what they have now, there has been a great improvement in compliance. This shows that NDPHC is not taking issues of safety, regulations, and environmental standards for granted. We are working towards an environment that is safe for both our workers and the operation of the power plant,’ Agberagba said.

She stated that the company has taken note of the areas that need improvements, adding that ‘this management is very concerned about the welfare of the staff, because if they are not in a good position to work, we are not going to get the best out of them.

‘So those little observations have to do with good conditions of work for the staff, we will make sure that these things are taken into consideration in the shortest possible time.’

Also speaking, Ag. Head, Health, Safety and Environment, NDPHC, Austin Ijagem disclosed that the plant has not recorded any work related accident that has led to fatality since it began operations.

‘The safety at the power plant has been top notch. Their consultant mentioned that in 2018, when they visited, there were a lot of pending issues, safety concerns that they raised. And they have also acknowledged that when they came in today, the difference was clear. A lot of the safety concerns raised in 2018 have been closed out. That means we are getting nearer to almost zero pending issues as far as the safety at the power plant is concerned’, he stated.

Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), and a jurist and visiting Professor at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye, have commended the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr.

Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, for awarding N20 million as compensation to Mrs. Chineze Ozoadibe and five other individuals wrongfully arrested.

HURIWA said the latest compensation, the recent judicial victory recorded by the DSS in the suit filed against Prof. Pat Utomi’s bid to float a shadow cabinet, and another against African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, were testimonies to the DG’s faith in the rule of law.

On his part, retired Justice Omolaye-Ajileye, lauded the DSS boss for demonstrating leadership, accountability, and respect for human rights, saying they reflect a commitment to transparency and the rule of law.

‘The award of N20 million in total compensation to these wrongfully detained individuals showcases Mr. Ajayi’s total dedication to rectifying mistakes, building public trust, and upholding justice,’ said the retired judge.

‘This action sets a positive precedent for other security agencies to follow and underscores the DSS’s commitment to

protecting the rights of Nigerian citizens,’ noted the retired jurist.

According to HURIWA: ‘The decision to challenge Professor Pat Utomi’s plan to form a shadow cabinet in court, rather than resorting to unlawful arrest or detention, is a significant step towards entrenching democratic principles.’

In a statement by its national coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA noted that the ‘DSS’ recourse to judicial interpretation marks a refreshing departure from the long-standing culture of arbitrary clampdowns on dissenting voices.

‘By seeking judicial interpretation, the DSS has shown that law enforcement can safeguard internal security while still respecting constitutional freedom,’ observed the NGO, adding, ‘this approach aligns with global best practices in democratic governance.’

On the new DSS culture of compensating persons wrongfully arrested, HURIWA noted, ‘These actions, the fourth that has become public knowledge, demonstrate that the DSS, under Mr. Ajayi, recognizes that mistakes are inevitable in security operations.

‘However, what defines professionalism is the courage to admit errors and offer redress. We urge the DSS to codify these reforms into official practice directions so that the principles of compensation, accountability, and respect for due process become entrenched in the Service’s operations,’ observed the NGO.

‘The DSS has set a standard that others must follow; one where internal security is pursued without trampling on fundamental rights. If sustained, this new culture will enhance professionalism, boost public confidence, and consolidate Nigeria’s democratic values,’ the group concluded.

For community empowerment and academic excellence, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter of the Tiv Teachers’ Education Advancement Forum (TTEAF) paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Pius Uke Yima Akuta, in his Abuja office, and presented him award.

The union, which comprises teachers of Benue State indigenes of Tiv extraction drawn from both private and public schools across the FCT, said the recognition was conferred on Akuta in acknowledgment of his outstanding track record in education, human capital development, and community empowerment.

Speaking during the event, the leader of the TTEAF delegation, Mr. James Azua Tashi, explained that the award was not only in recognition of Akuta’s personal achievements in the field of education but also his contributions to nurturing the younger generation.

According to him, the CEO has consistently supported educational advancement by offering scholarships to students of the Moses Orshii Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM), formerly Benue State University, Makurdi.

Beyond scholarships, the union noted that Akuta has empowered various stakeholders by facilitating employment opportunities for qualified applicants in government agencies and parastatals, including the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and the Nigeria Customs Service, among others. He was also lauded for appointing a former student leader as one of his aides-an action described as a strong demonstration of his commitment to youth inclusion in leadership.

TTEAF highlighted his sponsorship of a distinguished son of Benue who emerged as the first person from the North-Central region to become President of the Association of Colleges of Education in Nigeria. This, the teachers said, underscores Akuta’s consistent role in breaking barriers for the people of his community.

During the visit, the delegation also tabled a number of requests before the Shippers’ Council boss.

The teachers appealed to him to extend his generosity to the children of their colleagues who have passed away by providing customized educational materials and books. They further requested that he consider supporting less-privileged students of Tiv extraction in the six area councils of the FCT and in Benue State through People Upliftment Projects Initiatives (PUPIs).

The union also called on Akuta to intervene in the plight of their members who are yet to secure government employment and are currently working under Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) arrangements, where they receive what they described as ‘meager and unsustainable’ salaries.

Responding, Akuta expressed deep appreciation to the union for finding him worthy of the award, which he described as both humbling and motivating. He pledged to carefully consider their demands and assured them of his continued commitment to the cause of education and empowerment.

‘Teachers are the bedrock of every society. You are the ones who light the path for future generations. I encourage you to remain steadfast in this noble calling,’ Akuta said.

The Executive Secretary further urged the teachers to take their campaign of recognition and support to other well-meaning sons and daughters of Benue State, stressing that the burden of education development should not rest on one individual alone.

Akuta was accompanied at the event by Professor Simon Akaayar, a distinguished Professor of Law at the University of Lagos. In his remarks, Prof. Akaayar admonished the Tiv Teachers’ Education Advancement Forum (TTEAF) to remain focused, describing them as ‘the true light of the nation’ whose role in shaping minds and values cannot be overstated.

The event ended on a note of celebration as the teachers reaffirmed their commitment to quality education while pledging to continue their partnership with visionary leaders like Dr. Akuta in promoting learning, scholarship, and nation-building.