Abuja Reports

Nigeria’s Rich Resources Must Not Fuel Insecurity, SGF Warns

Published

6 months ago

December 3, 2024

By Samson Adeyanju

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume has issued a stern warning on the misuse of Nigeria’s natural wealth.

Addressing the theme, “Our Natural Resources and Insecurity in Nigeria,” at the fourth-quarter meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) held in Abuja, Akume lamented the paradox of a resource-rich nation plagued by insecurity and poverty.

“Our abundant resources must not become a curse but a blessing that fosters growth and unity,” Akume asserted, highlighting the critical role of sustainable management in tackling challenges such as oil bunkering in the Niger Delta and banditry in the north.

He called for stronger policies, enhanced security frameworks, and transparent governance to deter criminal activities fueled by resource exploitation.

The SGF emphasized the importance of involving local communities in resource management to build trust and create economic opportunities.

He also advocated for educational reforms and vocational training as tools to combat poverty and reduce the allure of illegal activities.

In his remarks, Akume called on religious and political leaders to guide Nigerians toward accountability and justice, urging a collective effort to transform the nation’s resource wealth into a source of national pride and stability.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the National Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), Fr. Cornelius Afebu Omonokhua, lamented the unintended consequences of gold discovery in Zamfara State, describing it as a catalyst for violence rather than an avenue for economic growth.

Highlighting the paradox of resource wealth leading to instability, Fr. Omonokhua pointed out that instead of fostering development, Zamfara’s gold reserves have become a source of strife, with banditry and illegal mining thriving in the region.

He expressed disappointment over the complicity of some traditional rulers and security agents in perpetuating these vices, further undermining efforts to harness the resources for the common good.

“What should have been a blessing to Zamfara has turned into a hotbed of insecurity and lawlessness,” Fr. Omonokhua said, citing fears among local farmers and the collapse of agricultural activities that once defined the region.

He called for urgent reforms in resource management and governance, advocating for policies that prioritize equity, environmental sustainability, and the security of all citizens.

Fr. Omonokhua also stressed the need for mental re-engineering, value reorientation, and interreligious collaboration to address the root causes of these issues.

The meeting served as a clarion call for reforms, aiming to ensure that Nigeria’s resources drive prosperity rather than conflict.

Abuja Reports

FCTA Extends Bus Terminal Project to Bwari, Gwagwalada

Published

15 hours ago

May 18, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adewunmi Oluwaseun

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced plans by the FCT Administration to construct new bus terminals in Bwari and Gwagwalada area councils, expanding public transport infrastructure to more satellite towns.

Wike made the disclosure on Saturday while inspecting the dualisation of the Ushafa to War College and Check Point Road in Bwari, as well as the Abuja International Conference Centre.

The minister said the move is part of efforts to enhance security, ease commuting and ensure inclusive development across the territory.

“We have agreed to build one bus terminal in Gwagwalada and another in Bwari,” Wike said. “This will enable people to board taxis or buses safely to major terminals in the city without the fear of ‘one chance’ criminals.”

He noted that the ongoing transport infrastructure projects in Mabushi and Kugbo are ready for commissioning, while the Central Area terminal is nearing completion.

Wike warned residents against boarding roadside vehicles once the terminals become operational, stressing that government has provided safe alternatives.

The initiative is expected to boost confidence in public transport and improve mobility across the FCT.

Abuja Reports

FCT Minister Boosts Revenue to 30 Billion Monthly

Published

15 hours ago

May 18, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Ifeoluwa Odunayo

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed a sharp rise in the territory’s internally generated revenue, soaring from ₦9 billion to ₦30 billion monthly since his appointment in August 2023.

Wike attributed the increase to tough measures taken to block revenue leakages, recover outstanding payments, and revoke underutilised land allocations.

“Now, we are hitting ₦30 billion monthly,” he stated during a recent interview, noting that enforcing ground rent payments and taking bold recovery steps have fueled the growth.

The Minister highlighted the funding boost as key to ongoing infrastructural projects across the FCT, including road repairs, school upgrades, and improved security, all made possible under President Tinubu’s administration.

Wike’s fiscal reforms are being seen as a major turnaround for the capital’s economy and a bold push for accountability.

Abuja Reports

Wike Rules Out 2027 Run, Backs Tinubu Fully

Published

15 hours ago

May 18, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Samuel Adeola

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, says he has no plans to contest the 2027 presidential election and will not run against President Bola Tinubu under any circumstance.

In a chat with BBC Pidgin, Wike dismissed claims that he might consider the race if the Peoples Democratic Party zones its ticket to the South.

“I will not contest again. I cannot contest against someone I am working with. Who will win except him?” he said, expressing full support for Tinubu.

He also dismissed the strength of the opposition, stating that internal wrangling and weak party leadership have crippled the PDP.

“You are in the opposition and you are arrogant? That is the ruling party’s behavior,” Wike said, mocking former PDP governors Achike Udenwa and Sam Egwu, whom he accused of lacking political influence in their states.

Wike’s remarks reaffirm his alignment with Tinubu’s government and signal growing cracks within the PDP ahead of the next general election.