Abuja Reports

FCT: BAT Advancing Plan to Transform Satellite Towns into Cities —Wike

Published

2 months ago

December 4, 2024

By Adenike Lawal

President Bola Tinubu’s administration is advancing a comprehensive plan to transform satellite towns within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), into fully developed cities, according to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

The announcement came on December 3, 2024, during the inauguration of the Kabusa to Takushara road construction project in Abuja.

Wike affirmed that the administration is prioritizing the inclusion of rural communities in its development agenda, ensuring residents of satellite towns benefit from urban-level infrastructure and governance.

He highlighted that this aligns with President Tinubu’s promise to address the neglect often experienced in these areas.

“Infrastructure development, particularly road construction, remains a top priority,” Wike said, expressing optimism that the Kabusa to Takushara road project would be completed within six to seven months.

He emphasized the installation of streetlights along the road, marking a significant milestone for rural development.

“This is the first time roads in these communities are being built with streetlights, bringing urban comforts to rural areas,” Wike noted.

He commended Kabusa residents for their support of the Tinubu administration and assured them that funding for the project was secured.

Wike also revealed plans for additional infrastructure, including the forthcoming construction of the Kabusa to Ketti road, as part of Tinubu’s broader “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He stressed the importance of using local labor for these projects to create job opportunities for residents.

Richard Dauda, Director of Engineering Services at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), elaborated on the project, describing it as a 9.8-kilometer two-lane carriageway with shoulders and streetlights.

The road will connect Kabusa, Teta, Tasha, Sauka, and Takushara, enhancing socio-economic activities and easing the transportation of agricultural products to urban centers.

“The road will also improve emergency response times, access to healthcare, and safety for both vehicles and pedestrians,” Dauda said.

The project is expected to be completed within six months and will create direct and indirect job opportunities for the surrounding communities.

This initiative marks the third major road project under Wike’s administration, reflecting a concerted effort to improve infrastructure across Abuja and foster development in underserved areas.

Abuja Reports

Abuja Light Rail Favors the Elite, Residents Lament

Published

4 hours ago

February 12, 2025

ADMIN

By Emmanuel Ogbodo

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory argue that the Abuja Light Rail primarily serves the wealthy while neglecting ordinary commuters.

They urge the FCT Administration to learn from Lagos’ rail system.

Commissioned on May 29, 2024, with a six-month free ride, the rail currently runs only from the airport to the Central Business District, bypassing satellite towns where most workers reside.

Critics, including public affairs analyst Toyin Ajayi, question its design, stating it benefits only the affluent.

Civil servant Tajudeen Jimoh called for better planning, citing Lagos’ efficient rail and bus services.

The FCT Administration acknowledges the need for expansion but cites financial constraints.

Abuja Reports

FCT Vigilantes Arrest Two Scavengers for Rape

Published

8 hours ago

February 12, 2025

ADMIN

By Our Correspondent

Two scavengers, Mas’ud Bala and Ibrahim Musa, have been apprehended by vigilantes for allegedly gang-raping a 17-year-old girl in the Tipper Garage area of Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The incident occurred on Monday around 11:23 AM when the victim, who sells soya bean cake, went to collect a debt from the suspects.

One of the men reportedly lured her into their wooden apartment, where both assaulted her.

According to vigilante member Usman Kabiru, screams from the girl alerted neighbors, who intervened and immediately notified the vigilantes.

One suspect was arrested at the scene, while the second was captured the following day at Unguwar Abattoir.

The victim’s parents were informed and took her to the hospital, where medical staff confirmed the assault.

Local police have acknowledged the incident but have referred inquiries to their headquarters for further details.

As of the report’s filing, FCT police spokeswoman SP Josephine Adeh had not yet commented on the case.

Abuja Reports

AIG Mohammed Gumel Takes Charge of Police Zone 7, Abuja

Published

9 hours ago

February 12, 2025

ADMIN

By Jesusemen Oratokhai

In a strategic leadership reshuffle, AIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel has officially assumed office as the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja.

Gumel, known for his expertise in peacekeeping, community policing, and crime rehabilitation, previously served as AIG in the Force’s Training and Development Department and as Commissioner of Police in Sokoto and Kano States.

With a strong track record in security operations, he played a pivotal role in stabilizing post-election tensions in The Gambia and significantly reducing crime rates in Kano and Sokoto through innovative policing strategies.

His appointment signals a renewed focus on security and law enforcement effectiveness in Zone 7, which covers the Federal Capital Territory, Kaduna, and Niger States.