•Says ex-president’s constant 12m votes birthed his presidency in 2015

•Tinubu: my predecessor showed humility, restraint, maturity in exercise of presidential powers

•Obaigbena: 40 years ago, I was the last journalist to interview Buhari just before IBB’s coup

Olawale Ajimotokan, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Oluwaseyi Adedotun in Lagos

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, yesterday, said his then principal, former President Muhammadu Buhari, during his administration, allowed institutions of state to work and prioritised structure over flamboyance.

Mustapha said Buhari would be remembered not for political theatrics, but for a legacy defined by disciplined leadership, institutional reform, and long-term governance frameworks.

He spoke at the public presentation of a book written by Buhari’s former spokesperson, Garba Shehu, titled, “According to the President.”

Mustapha said the 2013 merger of political parties made the Buhari presidency possible in 2015.

The legacy parties that formed All Progressives Congress (APC) included Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), New Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP), a faction of All Progressives Ground Alliance (APGA), and All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

Mustapha, who did a breakdown of elections’ results since 2003, concluded that the three million votes brought in by the merger boosted Buhari’s constant 12 million votes in three election cycles to get the 15.4 million votes that saw him up to the presidency in 2015.

President Bola Tinubu, at the occasion, reiterated that the reform-oriented path initiated by Buhari would be consolidated and strengthened under this administration.

Tinubu said Buhari showed humility, restraint, and maturity in the exercise of presidential power.

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo described the job of Nigeria’s vice president as the most difficult in the world.

Chairman of ARISE News Channel and Publisher of ������Ƶ, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, on his part, recalled how he was the last journalist 40 years ago to interview Buhari as Head of State just before IBB’s coup.

Tinubu had in Abeokuta, ahead of the 2023 presidential convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), publicly disclosed that he made Buhari president, nominated Osinbajo as his running mate, and got Dapo Abiodun elected as Governor of Ogun State.

Tinubu, who insisted it was his turn to be president, being his “lifelong ambition”, said, “If not for me talking to you today, Buhari would not have been president. It is over 25 years that I have been serving them. This one sitting behind me, Dapo Abiodun, he could not have become the governor without me,” delivering the popular “emi lo kan” slogan.

However, Mustapha said before turning to the presidency, it was important to recognise Buhari’s role in reshaping Nigeria’s political trajectory.

He stated, “In early 2013, as the leader of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Buhari formally requested and supported the creation of a CPC merger committee, part of a broader coalition-building process that brought together the ACN, ANPP, APGA faction, and elements of the ruling party through the breakaway ‘new PDP’ group.

“His endorsement and participation, along with other party leaders, such as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, lent credibility and direction to the merger, helping to unify disparate party factions under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“That coalition-building paved the way for the first democratic defeat of an incumbent ruling party in Nigeria’s history. President Buhari’s integrity, national stature, and disciplined messaging were central to that breakthrough.

“I do not intend to stir up any controversy. The merger in 2013, was midwifed to create a Buhari presidency. Let us look at the statistics. In the 2003 election, it was the Obasanjo-Buhari presidential contest where Buhari recorded 2.7 million.

“In the next election, he got 12.7 million votes. In 2007, it came to 6.6 million, it went back to 12.2 million in 2011.

“When we were conceptualising the merger, what will give us a head-start and obviously, it is at the back of our consciousness that the merger with the CPC, though it has only one state, the ACN has six states, ANPP three states, and when you sum up the total votes that have us the presidency in 2015, the aggregate of the total votes was 15.4 million.

“So, basically, what we brought to the table after the merger outside the Buhari 12.5 million votes was three million.”

Mustapha, who offered an in-depth appraisal of Buhari’s leadership style, praised him for allowing institutions to work while he governed.

Held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, Garba’s book launch brought together statesmen, policymakers, and political leaders who witnessed the unveiling of the book chronicling Buhari’s presidency.

Mustapha emphasised that Buhari’s model of governance reflected a deliberate choice to prioritise systemic change over populist appeal, adding that his tenure laid critical foundations for national development.

“President Buhari was not drawn to the theatre of power, but to its quiet burden of responsibility. He governed with duty over drama, conviction over applause. He will be remembered not only for performance but for principles,” he said.

Mustapha recounted Buhari’s decades of service, from his military appointments to his two-term democratic presidency, highlighting Buhari’s early role in establishing the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), his leadership of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF), and his sustained advocacy for infrastructure-led development.

“As Head of State and later President, Buhari carried a reformist instinct that remained consistent,” Mustapha said, referencing major energy sector reforms, like the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021 and gas infrastructure projects, such as the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano pipeline.

He said Buhari’s election in 2015 was a watershed moment, not just for defeating an incumbent president, but also for ushering in a government that prioritised institutional renewal over political expediency.

He explained that Buhari’s first term focused on stabilising an economy in crisis and confronting a growing security threat.

The administration introduced the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), the Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP), and later, the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS) aimed at lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty, Mustapha stated.

He said, “His second term marked a shift to evidence-led governance, with the Nine Priority Areas that guided national planning through the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2021–2025) and Nigeria Agenda 2050.”

Mustapha highlighted the landmark infrastructure projects under Buhari to include the Second Niger Bridge, Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Highway, Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, and expansion of the national rail network.

Mustapha stated that by 2023, over 3,800 kilometres of federal roads had been constructed, with additional rehabilitation projects funded through Sukuk bonds and other strategic partnerships.

On the pandemic, Mustapha, who chaired the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, praised Buhari’s leadership, saying it ensured institutional stability, rapid response, and effective coordination at federal and subnational levels.

In the area of social investment, Mustapha said the Buhari administration institutionalised “the most extensive poverty response framework in Nigeria’s history”, including N-Power, school feeding for nearly 10 million pupils, and cash transfers to over 1.6 million households.

The agricultural sector saw unprecedented growth through the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, boosting local food production and agro-industrial capacity, he stated.

Beyond policies, Mustapha stressed Buhari’s constitutionalism and respect for process, particularly during periods of medical absence, when he delegated authority without disrupting governance.

“He allowed the system to function, reinforcing confidence in institutions,” he said.

On foreign policy, Mustapha emphasised Nigeria’s elevated standing under Buhari, with the country securing key global appointments, including Dr. Akinwumi Adesina (AfDB), Amina Mohammed (UN Deputy Secretary-General), and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (WTO Director-General).

Buhari’s role in signing and ratifying the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement was described as pivotal in strengthening Nigeria’s leadership on the continent.

“Buhari led with a sense of time greater than his tenure,” Mustapha said, adding, “He saw governance not as a sprint, nor a solitary marathon, but a relay across generations. The baton has now passed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and history, as always, waits not for perfection, but for perseverance.”

Tinubu told the gathering that the reform-oriented path initiated by Buhari would be consolidated and strengthened under this administration

He stated that the event was not merely the celebration of a book, but a significant national moment – an opportunity to reflect on the leadership journey of his predecessor and one of Nigeria’s most consequential leaders, whose time in office shaped the direction of the country in profound ways.

Tinubu, who was represented by the incumbent Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described the book as a compelling and sincere documentation of leadership from within.

According to him, “Through the eyes and experiences of a spokesman, who worked at the very heart of power, we are offered a unique, unfiltered and well-considered insight into the decisions, challenges and accomplishments that defined President Buhari’s tenure from 2015 to 2023.”

The president added that Shehu had done more than tell a story. He captured a legacy and put forward a chronicle that provided context and clarity to the policy directions, governing principles and “leadership philosophy of a man whose disciplined and unwavering sense of duty left a significant imprint on our nation’s governance architecture.”

He emphasised that Buhari’s leadership stood on the pillars of integrity, accountability, prudence as well as patriotism.

Tinubu said of Buhari, “Under his stewardship, Nigeria witnessed a decisive push to confront insecurity, a serious commitment to infrastructure renewal, a renewed focus on self-reliance and a clear effort to sanitise the public sector. These themes resonate strongly in this book and must be appreciated in their full historic dimensions.

“It is also worth commending President Buhari’s humility and restraint in the exercise of presidential power – hallmarks of democratic maturity. In the face of provocation, he remained calm. In moments of uncertainty, he held steady. His was a Presidency of discipline and quiet strength.

“Mallam Garba Shehu’s account provides a critical behind-the-scenes perspective. The book also serves as a repository of wisdom for public communicators, policymakers, scholars, historians and Nigerians at large. It offers key lessons on leadership communication, governance under pressure and the intersection between power and public perception.”

The president, who stressed that the country must never get tired of documenting its journey, added, “If we must move forward purposefully, we must learn from the past with honesty. Books like this play a vital role in that learning process. They preserve memory, illuminate truth and sharpen our collective understanding of nationhood.

“Nation-building is a relay. The efforts of one administration lay the foundation for the next. In this regard, I acknowledge the efforts of my predecessor, President Buhari, and assure all Nigerians that the reform-oriented path he initiated will be consolidated and strengthened under this administration.

“Our Renewed Hope Agenda is inspired by the desire to build a resilient, just and inclusive Nigeria – a nation that delivers dividends of democracy to all its citizens.”

Osinbajo stated that the book was important not just because it detailed Shehu’s eyewitness accounts and some of the most history-worthy moments in the country.

He added that Shehu criss-crossed two different administrations in his book, while also being true to his heart and to his calling as a teacher.

Osinbajo added that Shehu categorically said he was not set out to write an autobiography, but a textbook for those who would in the future be immediate advisers and practitioners in the prestigious but often difficult, sometimes treacherous territory of politics and governance at the highest levels by writing a textbook based on his experiences, both good and bad.

He stated, “He spares the wise who will follow him the burdens of learning by experience. The popular adage, experience is the best teacher is, as you know, only a half truth. It is actually the shortened form of a Welsh proverb, ‘Experience is the best teacher for a fool, the wise learn from history.

“History is a kinder and gentler teacher and experience. So, he gives a blow by blow account of the inside story, and several inside stories, including the conflict that developed between Vice President Abubakar and President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“He says how he, as a media person to Vice President Atiku, in navigating that debacle, he lost his job, and he tells the story of how one evening, he got a call from NTA and he was told, ‘we are announcing your resignation tonight.’ He said he had not resigned. The voice said, ‘well, we have your letter of resignation here,’ and yes, his resignation was announced that evening.”

Osinbajo added, “Just reflecting about the conflict between the vice president and the president, I think that the only other vice president who’s here agrees with me that the job of the vice president was mostly the most difficult in the world.

“It was His Excellency, Umar Ganduje, former Chairman of APC, in his famous work, ‘Deputising’, who humorously describes the conundrum that deputies face. And he once said to me, ‘When you are a deputy or you are vice, you are in a difficult position,’ and then he would pause like a great storyteller that he is.

“He said every action you take is likely to be misinterpreted, not necessarily by your boss, but by the numerous people around you. He says if you humbly walk behind your boss, they will say, look at him, they will say he’s not cooperating with his boss. If you walk by his side, they will say, see this man, he thinks he’s equal to the boss, and if you walk in front of him, they will say, he thinks he’s better than his boss.”

The publisher of ������Ƶ and Chairman of ARISE News, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, recalled he was the last journalist to interview Buhari as military Head of state.

Obaigbena stated, “I also remember that as a journalist, I was the last to interview then General Muhammadu Buhari as Head of State. I was working for Time magazine in New York, after the interview, I flew to New York to have the interview published in 1985.

“So, as we had laid out the interview as it was those days, the editor of Time magazine called me and said, do you think this interview will be published? I said, yes, there had just being a coup in Nigeria.

“That was another momentous day for me. So as with Garba Shehu, now witness to history. And Garba has told the story of his witnessed statement using the eyes of Buhari today.

“Garba is a formidable journalist who has gone through hell and high water and climbed to the mountain top in the service of Nigeria. He has his panache; he has his determination. He’s being everything. He’s being head of Nigerian Union of Journalists, President of the Guild of Editors, and publisher. His best is yet to come.”

Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, said he knew Buhari as a person not inclined to worldly or materialistic overtures.

Gowon said no matter the misconceptions about Buhari, you could not take away the fact that he had the firm interest of Nigeria at heart. He added that Buhari also knew that he would do everything to keep his integrity intact.

Gowon stated, “If the truth must be told, Gen. Buhari is a man of austere lifestyle. I was, therefore, not surprised when the author (at page 114) of the book narrated an incident that rightly depicted the General Buhari that I know.

“According to Garba Shehu, shortly after being sworn in as President and Commander in Chief, General Buhari was informed of the need to increase the budget for catering services in the Villa. He then asked what the existing budget was.

“When they told him it was N10 million for the State House, including the Vice President, guest houses, and banquets in honour of visiting leaders, he screamed and asked that even the N10 million be drastically reduced.

“Mallam Garba Shehu has been consistent in defending his master without wavering. He takes the bullets of criticism and misconceptions for his boss. I know General Buhari must be proud of the crop of staff that served him with such commitment.

“To exude such loyalty, I believe Gen Buhari must have given them the freedom and support to work and defend his policies without any encumbrances.”

In his remarks, the author, Shehu, said Atiku served in the government that wanted to destroy his political career, family, and business.

He said being an aide to Atiku, he was hounded, hunted, and even jailed.

•FCT collects 1% of FG’s allocation from Federation Account, says Wike

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has assured that his administration will continue to invest in critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, housing, transportation, education, and healthcare, saying infrastructure development is a good investment for the people. Tinubu stated this yesterday at the official commissioning of the newly constructed Collected Road CN2 (Zakari A. Kyari Street) in Mabushi.

The president, represented by Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, expressed commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian felt the impact of good governance. He added that his administration will continue to work to deliver infrastructure projects that will enhance the citizens’ quality of life.

Tinubu urged residents of Mabushi, Katampe, and surrounding areas to protect and preserve the road, saying the federal government will dedicate the road to the youth, workers, and families who will benefit from it, with the hope that it will significantly improve their daily lives.

Tinubu said, “This project reflects our administration’s commitment to urban development and improving the quality of life for our citizens. We believe that infrastructure development is critical to national growth and development.

“I commend the Honourable Minister of the FCT and his team for prioritizing infrastructure delivery,”

Speaking earlier, FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, said the FCT was not rich, as what it collected from the federation account monthly was one percent of what the federal government got.

Wike stated, “So, assuming that the federal government gets N800 billion every month, one percent of N800 billion is N8 billion. And that N8 billion is not enough to pay salaries. Our salary today is not less than N13 billion because of the minimum wage increase.

“So, if we only depend on one percent of what the federal government gets every month, it means that we can only increase salaries, not to talk about carrying out infrastructure. And that’s why we’re very aggressive in saying you cannot enjoy this free of charge. You have to pay.”

The minister stated that the value of the land around the project, which was completed within eight to nine months, would now be growing at N200-N300 million, and with the people benefiting from it.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The FCT Administration has proposed the sum of N137 billion as capital expenditure for the Satellite Town Development Department in the 2025 budget.

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike stated in his address while presenting the FCT 2025 statutory budget proposal to the House Committee on FCT, chaired by Hon Ibrahim Bomai.

The FCT capital budget estimates for 2025 is N1,289,690,124,776, representing 72.30 per cent for the development of infrastructure, with emphasis on completion of on-going projects.

The proposal indicated 11 per cent increase over the 2024 Revised Appropriation of the sum of N1,162,986,332,759.00.

According to Wike, out of the proposed capital expenditure, other Secretariats, Departments and Agencies (SDAs) were allocated the balance sum of N351.2 billion for their capital expenditure as well as few new projects.

He said the sum of N80 billion for SUKUK loan projects, N25 billion for Abuja Light Rail Project rolling stock and provisions for other phases, N15 billion for Abuja Greater Water Supply and the sum of N250 billion for commercial loans planned to complete some ongoing capital projects in FCC and Satellite Towns while the balance sum of N919,690,124,776.00 is dedicated to the completion of the on-going capital projects and other counterpart funded related projects, aimed at enhancing socio-economic activities of the FCT.

The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is allocated the sum of N801.5 billion for its capital project.

The transportation sector has a provision of the sum of N79.3 billion with N27 billion out of the sum proposed for recurrent expenditure 2025 fiscal year and the sum of N52.3 billion is proposed for capital budget for the year 2025.

*Ahmed Musa stages return as Nigeria, Ghana set to renew 74-year rivalry 

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Head Coach, Eric Chelle, has selected rave-of-the-moment in France, Moses Simon, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi and forward Ahmed Musa among a total of 25 Super Eagles who will execute this month-end’s Unity Cup Tournament in London.

Chelle, who admitted that “we’re looking forward to taking part in the Unity Cup as it will give us the chance to try out a few new players in different roles, helping us to strengthen our squad before the matches in September and October,” has included a number of standout Nigeria Premier Football League players in the Unity Cup houseparty.

Junior Harrison Nduka, captain of the CHAN-bound Super Eagles B and of champions Remo Stars, will seek a slot in the defence that also has Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Igoh Ogbu and fellow home-boys Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Sodiq Ismaila and Waliu Ojetoye, while Papa Daniel Mustapha, Saviour Isaac and Collins Ugwueze will have to contend with Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Chrisantus Uche in midfield.

At the fore, Ahmed Musa, Adamu Abubakar and Sikiru Alimi are up against Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Nathan Tella, Tolu Arokodare and Kelechi Iheanacho.

The Unity Cup Tournament, involving Nigeria, Jamaica, Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, will be staged at the 17,250-capacity Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London. 

The tournament will kick off with the first semi-final on Tuesday, 27th May as Trinidad & Tobago tackle Jamaica in the first-ever ‘Trini-Jam’ on UK soil. 

The following day, three-time African champions Nigeria will take on four-time African champions Ghana in the second semi-final, which will come with all the intrigues and variables of a 74-year rivalry between the two continental giants.

All four teams will return on Saturday, 31st May for the grand finale, with the losers of the semi-final fixtures featuring in the third-place game, before the Final to determine The Unity Cup 2025 champions.

For the friendly with Russia’s senior men team at the Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow on Friday, 6th June, Chelle has picked a total of 21 players, with captain William Ekong, fellow defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika, and forwards Victor Boniface and Sadiq Umar joining a number of picks from the Unity Cup cohort.

*IMC mulls review of membership list 

Olawale Ajimotokan  in Abuja

Crisis enmeshed IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja may not be reopened until next year, ������Ƶ learnt yesterday.

Police and officials of Department of State Services (DSS) have occupied the club since its indefinite closure on April 26 before the Annual General Meeting to avert the club from plunging into crisis over the appointment of Board of Trustees.

It was gathered that the indefinite closure will afford authorities to renovate the club to world-class standard pending its reopening not expected to be later than next year.

The extensive course overall is to be carried out by Julius Berger, which originally designed the layout in 1991 and is to be jointly funded by Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Federal Ministry of Works and the National Sports Commission (NSC).

Impeccable sources revealed to ������Ƶ that a directive was issued to members by the Peter Deshi-headed Interim Management Committee (IMC) to expedite the removal of their personal items from the locker-rooms as the safety of such items could not be guaranteed due to the planned renovation.

The directive frantically forced many members to rush to the club to retrieve their items, including those who owned buggies packed in the club.

Security operatives only allowed the members to access the club to remove their belongings upon proper identification.

Only essential office workers, including security men and course workers are allowed into the course by DSS officials and police men attached to the facilities.

Even members of the IMC that routinely meet at the club have to be well identified before they can gain access into the course.

Authoritative sources also revealed that the IMC is also working on a template of rescreening members when the golf is eventually reopened.

The genesis of IBB Golf Club’s crisis could be traced to March 13, 2025 when DSS was invited following the disruption of the Extra Ordinary Emergency Meeting, summoned to adopt a new constitution on the tenure of Board of Trustees members.

The appointment of  a new BoT headed by Justice Monica Dongbam- Mensem by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has also become a subject of litigation as three IBB Club members, Ubong Akpan, Tijani Ogueyi and Olalere Babasola approached the court for an interim order, restraining Wike from appointing Dongbam- Mensem, incidentally the President of the Appeal Court as BoT chairman.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), an agency of the Federal Capital Territory Administration has begun the reclamation of flood plains and water channels encroached upon by individuals and developers.

AMMC Coordinator, Felix Obuah led heads of relevant agencies on a joint site visit to Utako and Guzape, where recalcitrant developers were discovered to be raising buildings and culverts along waterways.

He marveled at the attempts by a developer to construct a concrete pavement over a river channel in Utako and vowed to track down and prosecute the erring developer.

“We want this to serve as a lesson to other developers who take laws into their hands. Right today, we have mobilized equipment and materials and machines. They are right here. You witness it. Most of all those buildings that are not supposed to be, that do not have approval, will go down. And this is not only the one. Any other building that does not have approval, or that is built in a waterway, in a road corridor, it is no longer business as usual.”

Obuah, who was also infuriated by the level of encroachment into the floodplains by the developer of City Scape Estate Villa at Guzape District, said the FCT Administration would not fold its arms and watch developers risk the lives of subscribers.

It was gathered that the ‘As Built Approval’ issued to City Scape Estate Villa permitted the construction of 18 structures in the estate, but the developer encroached into the flood plain to develop 42 structures in all.

Obuah therefore ordered the immediate demolition of the illegal buildings and culverts on flood plains in both districts, stressing that the FCT Administration under the leadership of Nyesom Wike would not hesitate to go after any developer contravening town planning laws and building approval.

He also threatened to sanction district officers who shirked their responsibility of identifying and reporting building contraventions before they become a challenge.

“We are no longer going to take chances with any officer. We don’t want to do this work. They have been paid their salaries. They have been taken care of. So there is no reason why the Minister of FCT, Chief Administrative Officer of the UK, is doing everything, having sleepless nights, to change the narrative of Abuja, while some grunt elements are busy sabotaging the effort. We can’t allow it. That is why we have invited all of you to see what we are seeing and do the needful.”

Reacting, the Director of Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), Osilama Braimah, condemned the altering of natural features of the areas.

Caption: L-R: National President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Alhassan Yahya presenting the Construction Company of the Year to the Director, Administration, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, while Ms Bassey Effiong of the company’s Media Relations Office looks on, in Abuja… recently

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration aims to provide immunisation coverage for 1,116, 677 children during the National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDs) in the FCT. Acting Executive Secretary, FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Rukkaya Wamako, disclosed this at the flag-off of the exercise in Abuja.

Wamako said they would ensure the exercise reached all settlements, including children aged 0-59 months, living in riverine areas and all urban slums during the exercise, which will run from May 4 to May 10.

She urged women to come out massively to vaccinate their children, saying the vaccination is free of charge and there is no overdose.

Wamako said, “The government is spending a lot of money to take care of these vaccines or to keep their potency by keeping solar, by keeping light, by keeping generator, buying diesel, to make sure that the cold chain is being maintained to the last point where the child is being given this vaccine.”

In her keynote address, Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, said vaccine preventable diseases was one of the leading causes of childhood morbidity and mortality in Nigeria and the FCT.

Fasawe said preventative health measures needed to be supported and promoted to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo, described the trajectory of Nigeria’s immunisation effort as positive, in spite of challenges.

Mulombo called for acceleration of the programme, and urged parents, communities, religious leaders and stakeholders to ensure that each child was vaccinated to allow the target of universal immunisation is attained in Nigeria.

Olawale Ajimotokan 

Flying Eagles will this evening launch their campaign for an eighth Africa U20 title when Nigeria file out against the Junior Carthage Eagles of Tunisia at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, in the opening match of Group B.

Flying Eagles Head Coach, Aliyu Zubairu, and his charges understand that they must take it one match at a time as they aspire for glory, with Cup holders Senegal (who head Group C), hosts Egypt (who head Group A) and four-time winners Ghana (in Group C) also in the hunt for honours.

Four-time champions Egypt (winners in 1981, 1991, 2003 and 2013) already pocketed three points from their opening match against South Africa on Sunday, while Zambia and Sierra Leone fought themselves to a scoreless draw.

Ghana have their work cut out in Group C, where they must negotiate survival with title-holders Senegal, a Central African Republic side that eliminated Cameroon, and the nifty Democratic Republic of Congo.

Nigeria must beware of the host nation, even though the Flying Eagles pipped the Egyptians 1-0 in a group phase match in Cairo two years ago. 

The only Final matches Nigeria have lost since the competition transformed from home-and-away format to a tournament were against host nations – against Ghana in Accra in 1999 and against Congo in Brazzaville eight years later. 

On the reverse, Nigeria defeated hosts Senegal in the Final in 2015.

Ghana were champions in 1993, 1999 (as hosts), 2009 (when they won in Rwanda) and 2021. Cameroon, who are not in Egypt, won their only title when Nigeria hosted the competition in 1995.

After Thursday’s shootout with the Junior Carthage Eagles, the seven-time champions will be up against 1997 hosts and winners Morocco, also at the 30 June Stadium.

Zubairu is excited that his boys are riding on immense psychological wavelengths after a 2-1 defeat of host nation Egypt in a friendly match at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday – barely 48 hours after the delegation landed in Cairo.

Tunisia did not originally qualify for the Under-20 AFCONfinals, but sneaked through after original hosts Cote d’Ivoire pulled the rug on the Confederation of African Football with only weeks to the opening match.

All four semi-finalists at the tournament will qualify to fly Africa’s flag at this year’s FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile, from 27th September to 19th October.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced his intention to request President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presence in the Area Councils to commission completed infrastructure projects during celebration of the president’s second year in office.

Wike stated this while addressing reporters shortly after a routine inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects slated for commissioning in May to commemorate President Tinubu’s second-year anniversary across Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Bwari Area Councils of the FCT on Saturday.

The minister expressed optimism that the president’s visit to the FCT Area Councils will strengthen ties with the people at the grassroots, adding that they will also have the opportunity to see their President in person.

The Minister said: “We are going to work that out, at least he (Mr. President) should be able to go to one of the Area Councils and let the people see that yes, this is their president, not just commissioning roads in the cities.

“We will plead that he visits at least one or two Area Councils so that the people will be happy that yes, this is their president. We can assure you that he will at least go to Gwagwalada, go to Kwali or Bwari where we have the Law School. We are going to make sure that Mr. President comes to identify with his people”.
Wike recalled President Tinubu’s earlier directive to prioritise the development of satellite towns to decongest the Abuja city centre
He emphasised that the president is very keen on developing the satellite towns, thereby reducing travel time for residents commuting to the city.
On his assessment of the project sites visited, the FCT Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of work observed at various project sites, including the 10km Agoma Palace/Market/Park roads and other internal roads in Gwagwalada Area Council, the 15km A2 to Pai road in Kwali Area Council, as well as the War College/Army Checkpoint and other ancillary roads within the Bwari Area Council.

He described the projects as good-quality jobs executed by good-quality contractors, adding that the administration is keeping to standard, providing quality infrastructure that will make the people happy and turn around the economies of the areas concerned.

The minister said; “We have gone round to three satellite towns in three Area Councils. Look at the A2 to Pai, look at the one in Gwagwalada and Ushafa, you can attest that these are quality jobs done by quality contractors. So, we are happy that we are keeping to standard and that’s what is important, not just giving out infrastructure but quality infrastructure that will make the people happy and turn around the economies of these areas.”

He commended the contractors for their commitment to delivering quality work and assured them of adequate funding to ensure timely project completion. 

. Inaugurates Nigeria’s first solar-powered market

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described as unacceptable the acquisition of 1,000 hectares of land by University of Abuja, now known as Yakubu Gowon University.

This was as the minister yesterday officially inaugurated the Utako Farmer’s Market, Abuja.

The facility, which is Nigeria’s first evergreen solar powered market, was developed on 3,000 square meters of land, consisting of 50 lock up shops, 40 informal stalls and seven warehouses.

On the acquisition of 1,000 hectares of land by the University of Abuja, the minister made the observation yesterday during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects such as OSEX and the road leading to the EFCC Academy ahead of activities marking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second year in office.

He described the move as unfuturistic, excessive and a hindrance to developmental efforts within the territory.

“I have discovered and also opened my eyes as to the kind of land that the University of Abuja has acquired. It is not acceptable. You can’t deny development, where a university will go and take over 1,000 hectares of land for what purpose? We have been to universities, we have gone around to schools, just the grabbing of land is not the whole thing. It is just for development purposes,” Wike said.

The minister also lampooned the institution for failing to put the land to productive use, warning any public land left fallow would be repossessed and reassigned.

“If you don’t develop it, the government will take it back and give it to those who will. We must stop this idea of acquiring land just for acquisition’s sake,” he said.

He also questioned the underlying motive of such large-scale land acquisition saying, “Before you know it, they will begin to lease it out to people. It doesn’t make sense. What makes a university is not the large expansion of land. What makes a university is the infrastructure, and the quality. It is not about land. You can have 20,000 hectares of land and the university does not have any infrastructure. So, what does it help? We must stop this idea of just acquiring land for acquiring sake. That is not the essence of it. If they give you land, if you develop it, fine. if you don’t develop it, the government will take it back and give it to those who want to develop. So that is our position.”

Meanwhile, speaking while unveiling the market in Abuja yesterday, the FCT Minister, Wike, stated that the inauguration of the market marks a significant milestone in boosting commercial infrastructure and economic growth within the Federal Capital Territory.

Represented by the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, Wike said by investing in such infrastructure, the Bola Tinubu administration has demonstrated its commitment to creating opportunities for economic expansion and improving the quality of life for residents.

The FCT Minister praised Ambassador Maureen Tamuno’s leadership of Abuja Investments Company Limited for driving economic growth in the Federal Capital Territory, stressing that under her guidance, AICL has been instrumental in fostering strategic investments, promoting partnerships, and showcasing Abuja’s vast investment potential.

“This initiative reflects our shared vision for a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy—one that supports our local farmers, empowers small-scale agribusinesses, and ensures that quality produce is readily accessible to every resident of the Federal Capital Territory.

“We are not only commissioning a market; we are unveiling a hub of economic empowerment, a centre of agricultural excellence, and a vital link between producers and consumers. This market will serve as a platform where farmers can sell directly to buyers, eliminating middlemen, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting rural incomes.

“I must commend the visionary leadership and dedication of the Abuja Investment Company Limited under the able leadership of the Group Managing Director/CEO, Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, PhD, for her commitment to transforming the economic landscape of our modern city. This market, in addition to other markets, stands as a demonstration of what can be achieved through public-private collaboration, strategic investment, and community-focused development,” Wike said.

Earlier in her remarks, the Group Managing Director, Abuja Investments Company Limited, Amb. Tamuno applauded the FCT Minister for his visionary and unwavering commitment to making Abuja a world-class city.

She said the project aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11, focusing on sustainable urban growth that fosters economic development, environmental conservation and improved living standards for Abuja’s residents.

“Despite the huge capital costs associated with renewable energy, we at AICL embarked on this project because it combines sustainability and modern eco-friendly practices to create a market that benefits farmers, traders, and FCT residents.

“Also, this market will support the food security policy thrust of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. This is because the Market will serve as a reliable retail outlet for farmers, which is crucial in the agricultural value chain by ensuring that farm produce reaches consumers efficiently,” she said.

In their separate goodwill messages, the Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT and Ancillary Matters, Sen. David Jimkuta as well as Head of Service (HoS) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Grace Adayilo, commended the leadership of the two FCT ministers and Amb. Tamuno for their dedication to economic development in the country’s capital.

Olawale Ajimotokan  in Abuja 

The federal government has shortlisted Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, Mrs Grace Ihonvbere, S.l. Ameh (SAN) and Hamid Abbo into the expanded Board of Trustees of IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja. 

Others on the shortlist include; Admiral Victor Adedipe, (rtd), Chief Patrick Chidolue and Mr Ikokwu.

The appointment was government way of responding to call for inclusivity and to replace some deceased members of the board notably, Gen John Shagaya, Gen Domkat Bali, Sir Lucky Omoluwa and Prince Oluseyi Lufadeji.

The club was recently embroiled in a turmoil following a futile attempt by some members, led by JK. Gadzama and Dr Olabanjo Obaleye at Extraordinary Annual General Meeting to remove the BOT led by Gen IBM Haruna, leading DSS to take over the club to prevent a break down of law.

������Ƶ gathered exclusively last night that the new appointees would be inaugurated as BOT members today, or latest tomorrow by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. 

 Upon inauguration, they would join Gen Haruna, King Alfred Diete- Spiff, Dr Tim Menakaya, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe and Chief Philip Asiodu to swell the membership of the BOT to 12. 

Ihonvbere, a former Captain of the Lady Section, will become the first ever woman to be incorporated into the Board of Trustees of IBB Club since the club was founded in 1991. 

Runsewe on his part, is the current President of Nigeria Golf Federation and a former Director General of the Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) and National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC).

Abbo and Ameh were also former captains of IBB Club.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said the Draft National Policy Development Framework was a bold step that will address recurring challenges of policy management and lack of coherence and consistency across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). Akume stated this yesterday at the Stakeholders Validation Session held in Abuja.

 He said fragmentation, duplication and misalignment had often resulted in inefficiencies, slowing down the implementation of critical interventions that should otherwise accelerate national progress.

The SGF said the Tinubu administration was unwavering in its commitment to strengthening institutional frameworks that will foster a governance approach focused on citizens and ensuring that policy catalysed national development.

He stated, “We are not here merely to discuss processes and frameworks – we are here to deepen our resolve to build a governance structure that is adaptive, coordinated, and impactful – hence the desire for collaboration with key stakeholders.

“Therefore, this validation session affirms this administration’s recognition that a well-articulated, structured, inclusive and institutionalised approach to policy management is fundamental to achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The SGF stated that policy making was not a theoretical exercise, but a practical tool for governance and a mechanism through which governments translated national aspirations into concrete actions.

He described yesterday’s session as an opportunity to refine the framework into an instrument that will endure and ensure that public policy was driven by data, aligned with national goals, and was responsive to the dynamic needs of the country.

In her address, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, said the draft national policy development framework was the result of extensive collaboration between her office, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, the foreign and the National Economic Summit.

She said the Tinubu administration was unwavering in its commitment to strengthening the institutional framework and positioning public policy as a driving force for national development.

Usman said the draft national policy development and management framework will provide much-needed clarity, structure, and coherence that will enable the development of policies with clear intent, which would be implemented in discipline and evaluated for real impact.

Usman said, “The development and validation of this framework represents a key milestone in our ongoing efforts to institutionalise an effective governance process and ensure that public policies translate into real measurable benefits for the Nigerian people.

“This validation session is a concrete step towards institutionalising a governance culture that is adaptive, coordinated, and ultimately transformative.”

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has provided over 10,000 bags of rice to be distributed to various religious leaders, associations and groups for the Ramadan fasting period.

The provisions were donated yesterday at Gwagwalada on behalf of the minister by his Chief of Staff, Chidi Amadi.

Amadi said he was representing the minister to ensure compliance with his directive that the provision was formally handed over to the recipients.

He urged the religious leaders to identify the needy and the less privileged in the society and ensure that the relief was well distributed  among them.

“The season of Ramadan, like I have said, is defined by prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. The Minister, in his own little way, is trying to identify with the religious community here in FCT by ensuring that as they go through fasting, as they go through prayers, that at the end of the day there’s something they will use to break their fast, and this is part of the almsgiving that the Minister is carrying out today to ensure that we identify with them,” he said.

While receiving the foodstuffs, the Chief Imam of FCT Minister’s residence and the representative of all the FCT imams at the occasion, Lawal Mustapha, thanked the minister for distributing the food items to the citizenry.

He noted that such benevolence was one of the things that leaders should be doing to forge understanding between them and their subjects.

The Principal, School for the Deaf, AbdulRazzak Surajo, expressed gratitude to the minister for the gesture during the Ramadan, saying the Special School will have a good celebration of this Salah with happiness.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike has directed the officials of Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) a week ultimatum to allocate a new land to the residents of Gishiri Village affected by the construction of Shehu Shagari Road (Arterial Road N16) in Katampe District of Abuja.

He gave the directive yesterday when addressing the affected persons of the community.

Wike expressed dissatisfaction with the reports as presented by officials of FCDA and Gishiri victims, and promised to visit the area for assessment.

The minister, who on Monday, threatened to sack the Executive Secretary FCDA, Yunana Dauda for alleged fraud, urged the Director, Department of Resettlements and Compensation, Nasiru Suleiman, to pay compensation to the affected persons within one-week.

This was after Suleiman had told the minister that they had been to the site where the demolitions took place and were shown everything.

 “I don’t agree with you. Let this be the last time I hear about this complain. I give you people one week to go and allocate those lands to them. If it is not enough, then we’ll find an alternative and manage it,” Wike said.

He also appealed to those whose buildings were demolished by the road project to accept the monetary part of the compensation before the land.

“If you don’t take the money, I will not give you people the land again. Go and collect the money. So, as you take the land, you start developing it, if I hear that you did not take it, I would not also give you the land and you would be the one that’ will suffer it,” noted Wike.

He added the initial compensation budget of N655m was increased to N1.3 billion due to the economic situation in the country.

The affected persons pleaded to be given the land behind the Local Education Authority (LEA) Primary School, Gishiri, alleging the place they were originally given was covered by water and not good for habitation.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has denied selective revocation of the land title of the Peoples Democratic Party in Abuja, saying the opposition political party was owing N7, 603, 504 million as ground rent from 2006 to2025.

The FCTA Director of Lands, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, gave the clarification yesterday while briefing the press after the 13th section of the FCT Executive Council meeting chaired by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

Nwankwoeze, who confirmed ������Ƶ’s report on the revocation of PDP’s land title, also said many government institutions, including the Nigerian Post Authority (NIPOST), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bornu State government, and the National Universities Commission (NUC), were among the 4,794  affected private and corporate titles revoked by the minister.

Others listed were Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Federal Minister of Environment, Nigerian Security Printing and Maintaining Company,

He also clarified that only the property belonging to the PDP property that would be revoked was the one in the Central Area, while the Wadata Plaza, that houses the PDP Headquarters in Wuse Zone 5 was a property that belongs to one Samaila Maman, who bought from Wadata and got his papers registered by way of assignment.

“The titles we are talking about that belong to PDP is only one, the one in Central Area. Where they are occupying as their national headquarters is not their property.

“That is the clarification that people need to know. On that property, 28 years ground rent has been owed. 28 years, from 1998 to 2025. They are owing N2,848,173 for 28 years, and we put out notices out there for people to come and pay or risk those titles being revoked.

“From 2023 to now, that’s about a year and a half from when those publications started, they did not pay. The minister had to do what he needed to do, not just on that but on all other titles.

“And people are telling me we are revoking two properties belonging to PDP. That’s not true. It’s only one that belongs to PDP, the one in central area. The one they are owing 20 years, from 2006 to 2025.

“The one in Zone 5 where they are currently occupying as their national headquarters does not belong to PDP. It belongs to Samaila Maman. And the revocation notice has been served on him in his Kaduna address, the address on record.

“We did not serve any such notice to the PDP. The only one we served on them was the one of Central Area. You don’t serve revocation notice on a tenant or an occupier, you serve on the title holder. That’s what the law says,” Nwankwoeze said.

The Director of Land stated that the revocation only affected those who had not paid ground rents as from 10 years and above, adding that some people were owing ground rent for about 43 years, which is half of the 99 years of the grant.

Meanwhile, the FCT EXCO meeting hasapproved contracts for the procurement of some earth-moving machines and equipment for the Department of Development Control under Abuja Metropolitan Management Council, (AMMC).

This was in favour of Matrak Nigerian Limited to the total tune of N1,940,572,410 and N242,827,450 for the FCT-IRS in respect of the procurement of Microsoft 365 software that will boost technology that will enhance revenue generation and collection.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Super Eagles hostel will be built to a four-star hotel level and be ready in 24 months, the project consultant, Gambo Amadu, said yesterday at the project’s groundbreaking ceremony in Abuja.

According to the consultant, the existing pitch at the FIFA Goal Project will be rehabilitated, in addition to a new synthetic pitch and a new natural grass pitch.

The pitches will have two changing rooms that are able to accommodate 27 players at time. The changing rooms will also be provided with a tactics room, a massage room and an ice-in-mature room in each of the changing rooms.

“There will be two changing rooms for the officials. There will be provision for offices for the technical officials. There will be a small restaurant for snacks and take-away night refreshments. The pitches will be provided by a single seating gallery for spectators. That will accommodate 1,838 seats. The pitch material will be provided by a FIFA-preferred supplier. And in this case, it will be made from natural grass. The period of construction shall be 24 months. That is the maximum.

“The second project is the construction of the hostel. The hostel consists of 68 rooms, two presidential suites, four executive suites and two seats. Then the remaining 68 will be single rooms and this will be a high-class hostel with a level of four stars. The hostel will be provided with a conference hall that will accommodate 170, a banquet hall that will accommodate 170, meeting rooms and other facilities that will be conducive for the use of the grass. There are other ancillary facilities like the swimming pool. So the level of standard of this hostel is to a four-star hotel level. The drawings for the construction have been approved by FIFA. They have been approved by the Development Control of the FCTA,” Amadu said.

In his address, NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, said the pitches will not only serve our national teams but will also be open to grassroots development, ensuring that the next generation of Nigerian footballers can perform their skills.

“With this world-class facility, our teams will have access to best training environment, improving performance and consistency at international level. This investment is in our footballing future.

“We also acknowledge the effort of the federal government of Nigeria for the cooperation and support they gave us in achieving this project and all other stakeholders who have played a crucial role in bringing this project to reality,” Gusau said.

Former Super Eagles legend, Olusegun Odegbami, who graced the occasion along with other Nigerian ex internationals like Mutiu Adepoju, Victor Ikpeba, Samson Siasia, Precious Dede and Stella Mbachu, described the project as a historic and one that should have happened several decades ago.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Tajudeen Abbass cut the tape signaling commencement of work at the site.

The event was graced by Chairman of the  National Sports Commission, Malam Shehu Dikko; Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, CG Bashir Adeniyi; former Edo State Deputy Governor, Phillip Shaibu; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Abdul Ningi; the SA to the President, Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare; the Ambassador of UAE to Nigeria, Salem Ali Shamsi and Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has been exculpated of involvement in alleged financial misconduct bothering on corruption, bribery, money laundering and investigation of his Personal Assistant, Andrew Torhile Uchi, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The rebuttal was issued yesterday in a statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Segun Imohiosen.

The statement insisted that the OSGF leadership was not in any way involved in the alleged misconduct, maintaining its commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity.

“We recognise the efforts of the EFCC on this matter to ensure that those found culpable are held accountable. However, we urge the public not to speculate or draw conclusions as investigations are still ongoing.

“The OSGF appreciates the understanding and support of the public on this matter,” the statement said.

The OSGF’s rebuttal was on the heel of the alleged investigation of Uchi presently with EFCC, over allegations bordering on corruption, bribery and money laundering to the tune of N10 billion.

The investigation was said to be sequel to a petition dovetailing the properties he allegedly acquired in Abuja, Jos, Makurdi, Gboko and Wannune in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State, amounting to over N6 billion.

A report in the media last week alleged that the EFCC from the investigation carried out from December 2023 to date, had traced about N1.6 billion of money that was allegedly used in buying porch cars through four new generations banks to nine car dealers in Abuja, Kaduna, Lagos, Jos and Makurdi respectively.

Two Bureaux de Change operators were also said to in detention for their role in the money laundering scam.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has vowed to supervise the immediate demolition of structures obstructing the expansion of Shehu Shagari Road in Gishiri, Katampe District.

He said the move would allow the contractors to hand over the road also known as Arterial Road N16 by May this year.

He decried the non-cooperative attitude of the community, who were protesting by throwing projectiles at the demolition team, despite entreaties to their leaders to accept relocation alternatives offered to affected residents.

The minister said after the traditional ruler pleaded one week grace, the FCT Administration made available money for the compensation of those affected, in addition to providing a place for their resettlement.

“But with all these assurances, it does appear from what I got in the report that work is still going on. And I did inform the traditional ruler that this work has to go on. And no government would fall in steps and allow people to sabotage the interest of the public. It is not as if anybody is coming to acquire land to build houses.

“So I called them from Milan that I’m going to be personally here to supervise this demolition. And that’s what I came for, letting them know that it’s no longer going to be business as usual,” Wike said.

Wike said the administration would not tolerate any actions that undermine public interest, asserting that the demolition was necessary for the timely completion of the road.

He urged affected affected residents to work with the authorities to finalise their relocation arrangements, insisting the road project was completed as scheduled.

“We have given them more than two, three months. We have also provided compensation and a resettlement plan. What more is human than that?” he questioned.

Olawale Ajimotokan 

Ahead of the crucial first leg of the U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier this Saturday, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has announced free entry for fans.

South Africa’s Bantwana will face Nigeria’s Flamingos in the opening leg of the second qualifying round. The team aims to get a good result, which will make the reverse fixture less important if need be.

SAFA took to social media yesterday morning, urging supporters to come in large numbers for a free-pay encounter against Nigeria.

“Come show your love and support the team in this crucial World Cup qualifier—entry is free,” SAFA stated.

Bantwana heads into the fixture with momentum, having secured a dominant 21-2 aggregate victory over Gabon in the first round. 

The match is scheduled for Saturday at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria.

Nigeria’s U17 girls, Flamingos, left for South Africa on Tuesday and Head Coach Bankole Olowookere selected 19 players, with goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma, defenders Hannah Ibrahim and Jumai Adebayo, midfielders Shakirat Moshood and Muinat Rotimi, and forwards Harmony Chidi and Chisom Nwachukwu included. 

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has selected Kenyan officials to superintend, which will kick off at 3 pm South Africa time (2 pm Nigeria). 

While 2022 FIFA World Cup bronze medallists Nigeria drew bye to the second round.

In a related development, CAF has appointed Josephine Wanjiku as the referee, with her compatriots Mary Njoroge, Elizabeth Njoroge and Juma Lucy Awino to serve as assistant 1, assistant 2 and fourth official respectively.

Cindy Barbara Dludlu from Eswatini will be the commissioner, with Moroccan Khadija Rezzag to be in the role of referee assessor.

Both teams will battle things out in the return leg at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo on Saturday, 15th March, with the winner on aggregate progressing to the third round of the qualification campaign.     

This year’s FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup will be hosted by Morocco, from 17 October – 8 November, with Africa to present five teams (including host nation Morocco) at the finals, which has been expanded to a 24-nation championship.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government said it is working toward restructuring the country’s trademark registry and intellectual property legislation and regulation.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, disclosed this yesterday at the third edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Session in Abuja, coordinated by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

She revealed the ministry was also working with the Ministry of Justice and Ministry and Ministry of Arts and Digital Economy on the restructuring exercise.

Oduwole said the motive was to have an Intellectual Property Policy that works for the entire economy to enable it to thrive.

She added that the country in November last year paid to host the The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), the biggest trade fair in Africa, enabled by Afreximbank.  Oduwole described the fair as catalytic and a game changer for any economy.

Her words: “Nigeria paid for it in November and we were shortlisted, so we’re waiting for the announcement.

“But what this meant was that we had to host a team that came from several institutions to Lagos using the National Theatre and we had to look at reforms across the airport, the view line, moving around Lagos, how it works. We had to visit hotels and to showcase Lagos and Nigeria to the world.

“I shouldn’t let the cat out of the bag but we’re really hopeful that we will get this. We have put on a very strong show and it corresponds with Nigeria’s 50th FESTA anniversary and so the first leg of it will be connecting to a cultural fair in 2026 and in 2027.

“We don’t have it yet but I want Nigerians to know that we paid for this so that we can have the full support of the country when we get it. I can tell you that we’ll definitely get it.”

She also refused to release any figures on what has been received on the projected $50 billion foreign investment inflows, promising the ministry would continue to track the investment flows as they come in from the CBN in addition to what the Bureau of Statistics releases.

The minister also doused concern about alleged dumping arising from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement of July 2019.

She said Nigeria was not afraid of goods from other African countries infiltrating its economy.

“Our people are entrepreneurial, they are already trading in Namibia, Kenya; they are everywhere. So, the AfCFTA just loves them to trade more. We are not afraid of things coming into our economy.

“We make sure through trade facilitation and rules of origin that nothing gets dumped on this economy. But at the same time, we are very bullish about exporting our quality products because our products are in demand and they are good all across the continent and the world,” Oduwole stressed.

Also, the Minister of State Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, added that two weeks ago, in addition to the effort of the Ministry of Power, he initiated discussions with the International Finance Corporation, (IFC) on establishing Nigeria’s carbon markets for utilisation and storage, for the purpose of unlocking sustainable finance for industrial groups

Enoh said the Industrial Revolution Work Group, was created to address the concern of local manufacturers on dumping and unfair competition by people who smuggle substandard goods into the country.

He said government was currently looking at way for manufacturers to benefit from an appropriate pricing of gas and to be able to purchase gas the same way that it’s done in mostly smaller sectors of the economy.

He said cost will drastically be brought down when it happens.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The NAFDAC branch of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) has appealed to the federal government to accord it the same treatment given the military, police and the intelligence agencies.

 In a joint statement by the union’s Acting Chairman, Jerry Chagga Makeri and Secretary, Aledeh Salih Ahmed, dated February 24, it argued that their role intersects with national security on public health and safety, combating illicit trade and enforcement and regulation.

MHWUN insisted NAFDAC staff deserved better wages because of the risks associated with their roles and to attract, retain and motivate skilled professionals.

The union demanded that wages be aligned with industry standards and urged government to take drastic steps to improve the welfare of NAFDAC employees, through compensation packages, enhanced working conditions and opportunities for professional development and fair promotion potentials.

“A unique salary structure should be created for NAFDAC to put into account all the peculiar and unique duties that NAFDAC employees perform. NAFDAC staff should be paid salaries, wages and compensations comparable to other agencies of government performing similar functions.

“The organogram of NAFDAC should be opened such that the agency should have presence/offices in at least all the senatorial zones in the country. NAFDAC ought to have no fewer than 10,000 personnel across the country as against the current workforce of just over 2,000 across the country,” the union said.

It lamented that despite their dedication to duty and enduring all risks, the salaries and welfare of NAFDAC staff are not commensurate with their efforts and roles in the country.

MHWUN said its members are subjected to dangerous situations in the field, when inspecting unlicensed manufacturers, illegal drug producers, or counterfeit product distributors.

It added such encounters can put the staff personal safety at risk.

The union acknowledged the synergy between NAFDAC, Office of the NSA, which enhances NAFDAC’s ability to protect consumers and public health, in addition to the necessary support in tackling illicit trade and counterfeit products that threaten the health of the Nigerian consumers.

Olawale Ajimotokan  in Abuja 

The Federal Government has assured Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, of maximum support at August’s 2025 FIBA Afrobasket Tournament in Angola to ensure a victorious outing. 

Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, made the pledge yesterday in a statement signed by his SA (Media and Publicity) Office of the Chairman NSC, Clement Nwankpa.

The team secured qualification to the tournament in convincing fashion at the mini tournament in Tripoli, Libya by beating Libya, Uganda and Cape Verde in the final window of qualification.

Dikko said that all outstanding issues will be promptly addressed to ensure the players and the team are focused on the competition. 

“We last won this trophy in 2015. Based on our podium performance campaign, it won’t be out of place to target another success in Angola. They can be assured of our support at the Commission. I, my DG, Hon. Bukola Olopade, and everyone at NSC are committed to this one”, observed Dikko.

He also assured stakeholders that the NSC will continue to advocate for the domestic development of the various sports in fulfilment of President Bola Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda.

Dikko congratulated the team for getting the job done at the qualifiers and opined that having more players from the domestic league in future campaigns will make such accomplishments stellar.

 “I looked at the final rooster of 12 players and there were just two home-based players. We are planing to get to that territory where more players from the domestic league will be involved. Experts always say that a country’s national team is as good as its league. This postulation is applicable to all team sports,  basketball inclusive and indeed other sports. 

“Our growth in basketball will be measured by how many players from the home scene are good enough to play for the national team and not players who went abroad to make name for themselves in the advanced leagues before becoming key to the national team. 

“This is why we will not relent in our efforts to have thriving domestic tournaments in all our sports. It is a mandate from the President and we are only the implementers. So we will work hand in hand with NBBF to make the domestic league stronger,” Dikko said.

He also said the internal acrimony in the NBBF will be addressed in order for the domestic growth of basketball to be realized.

“We will work in conjunction with the NBBF to settle any and all mitigating issues. Everyone needs to be on the same page so that we can pull in the same direction”, concludes the NSC Chief.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja 

 Evelyn Oyome Sunday was crowned the winner of the 2025 IBB Ladies Amateur Golf Open held in Abuja.

The victory for the former Lady Captain Ibadan Golf Club, marked the third consecutive time she would be winning the event.

Oyome, the President Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, steadied her nerves in scorching conditions, to eclipse 18-year-old Grace Agbo and Diana Osmond by four strokes.

A field of 450 golfers from across Nigeria and five African countries competed at the 26th edition of the tournament over 54 holes at IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja. 

Oyome, who grossed 248; 82, 79 and 87, relied more on her short-game and intuition of her caddy to coast victory.

She also described Agbo (84, 85,83) and Osmond (84,84,84), a former member of the Nigerian contingent to the 2013 MTN World Golfers Championship in Durban, South Africa as the future of golf.

“My caddie was one of the best I had today. He gave me the urge to go ahead and anytime I missed my putt he encouraged me and that gave me the courage to forge on.

“Playing with the youngsters was actually very interesting and I can tell you that those are the players I am going to hand over the baton to in the nearest future,” Oyome said.

Rachael Danjuma got $1,300 as the winner of the ladies professional category, beating Eva Magala of Uganda, who settled for $900 in second position. Nigeria’s Uloma Ogbuokiri finished third and got $700.

IBB Lady Captain, Dame Julie Donli, said she was overwhelmed by the large turn out of guests at the dinner and award ceremony.

She described the event as memorable and indisputably the biggest Ladies Open ever in the history of the club.

“This is the biggest ever Ladies Open recorded anywhere in the world, not just in Nigeria and I am very happy about it.

“I believe that the participants were happy with the course as the IBB International Golf course meets international standards,” Donli said

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja 

The Abuja Markets Management Ltd (AMML) 

has hatched an e-commerce platform to  provide online store services for traders.

The acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, AMML revealed this in Abuja at the company’s 20th anniversary, awards and gala night.

Ojiji noted that the e-commerce platform, kasuwa.com, would broaden the traders’ businesses as well as AMML outlook

He further disclosed that AMML intends to deploy a facility management software that would enable the company to know the status of every shop under its purview.

He explained that the initiative was part of efforts to adopt technology in the management of market facilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for efficiency.

“Currently, we are about to inaugurate an automated toll collection system in Garki Market, which we hope to replicate in other markets where we collect toll.

“This will ensure that time spent driving in and out of the market was reduced to the barest minimum.

“Also, we have a registry where the files and biodata of all the traders we are managing are kept. We are about to upload the data online for people to access with just a click,” Ojiji said.

He also enuciated plans to introduce Abuja Multipurpose Traders Cooperative to make resources available to traders including move to provide efficient service delivery that would ensure improvement in revenue generation.

He boasted that the digital innovative initiatives will significantly improve the revenues of the company established in 2004  in the next three to five years.

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government has mandated all federal civil servants to complete their identity verification via the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) by February 17, 2025.

The latest deadline, which was extended by one week from February 10, emanated from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) as a measure to eliminate ghost workers from the payroll.

The memo warned that those who fail to comply by the deadline risk having their salary suspended in addition to other sanctions.

The federal workers were required to provide their Tax Identification Number (TIN), IPPIS number and salary account details as part of the exercise.

The memo stated: “It is hereby emphasized that all employees concerned are expected to conclude updating their payroll information on or before 12 midnight on Monday, February 17, 2025.

 “Please note that officers who fail to avail themselves of this last opportunity may suffer some consequences, which may include suspension from the payroll.”