Chinese Language opens doors to jobs, trade, global opportunities – FG, NUJ, China

Chinese Language opens doors to jobs, trade, global opportunities – FG, NUJ, China

The Federal Government of Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Chinese government have jointly emphasized that learning the Chinese language is a gateway to jobs, trade, and global opportunities. At the International Chinese Language Day celebration in Abuja, they highlighted its role in diplomacy, economic growth, and cultural exchange.

Chinese Language Opens Doors to Jobs, Trade, Global Opportunities - FG, NUJ, China

The recent International Chinese Language Day celebration in Abuja brought together representatives of the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Chinese Embassy to underscore the importance of the Chinese language in today’s interconnected world.

Their collective message was clear: Chinese proficiency is not just cultural enrichment but a strategic tool for Nigerians seeking opportunities in trade, education, technology, and diplomacy.

Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, described the Chinese language as a “genetic link” carrying over 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. He called it a “golden bridge” that connects people’s hearts and fosters mutual understanding. With over 200 million learners worldwide across 190 countries, Chinese has become one of the most widely studied languages globally.

FCTA WELCOMES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH SAUDI ARABIA

FCT Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike (right) presenting a gift to the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al Balawi, when the latter paid a courtesy visit to the FCTA on Tuesday

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

FCTA WELCOMES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH SAUDI ARABIA

…AS MINISTER RECEIVES SAUDI AMBASSADOR TO NIGERIA

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has expressed the readiness of the FCT Administration to partner with Riyadh and other modern cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to foster urban development and mutual economic growth.

The Minister made this known on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Abuja while receiving the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Nigeria, His Excellency, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al Balawi, during a courtesy visit to his office.

Welcoming the Ambassador, Barr. Wike highlighted the long-standing and robust relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, and particularly stressed on the hospitable treatment of Nigerian pilgrims during Hajj. He emphasized that his administration was eager to translate these cordial ties into tangible urban cooperation.

Labour Party’s Leadership Crisis Finally Settled

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Labour Party’s Leadership Crisis Finally Settled

The Court of Appeal’s dismissal of Julius Abure’s appeal and affirmation of Senator Nenadi Usman as the National Chairman of the Labour Party marks a decisive turning point in one of Nigeria’s most protracted political tussles.

For years, the Labour Party has been plagued by internal strife, with Abure clinging to a mandate already invalidated by the Supreme Court. His persistence in pursuing parallel judgments across different courts was not only legally untenable but also politically destabilising.

The appellate court’s ruling, coupled with a ₦10 million fine for abuse of judicial process, sends a strong message that judicial time cannot be wasted on matters already conclusively decided.  

For the Labour Party, this judgment provides much-needed clarity and stability. Senator Usman’s leadership, born out of necessity, now enjoys full judicial backing. This allows the party to shift its focus from courtroom battles to the political battlefield ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Court of Appeal dismisses Abure’s appeal, affirms Nenadi Usman as Labour Party leader

Court of Appeal dismisses Abure’s appeal, affirms Nenadi Usman as Labour Party leader

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has dismissed Julius Abure’s appeal and affirmed Senator Nenadi Usman as the legitimate National Chairman of the Labour Party. The judgment not only upheld earlier rulings by the Federal High Court and the Supreme Court but also fined Abure ₦10 million for abuse of judicial process.

Background of the Case

The Labour Party has been embroiled in a leadership crisis for several years. Julius Abure, who previously served as National Chairman, was removed after the Supreme Court ruled on April 4, 2025, that the convention which returned him to office was invalid. Following this, a caretaker committee led by Senator Nenadi Usman was constituted under the doctrine of necessity to fill the leadership vacuum.

Court of Appeal’s Decision

On April 21, 2026, a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal, led by Justice Oyejoju Oyewumi with Justices Abba Mohammed and Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike concurring, unanimously dismissed Abure’s appeal. The court held that:  

Editorial: Oyedele’s Elevation and the Future of Nigeria’s Economic Policy

Taiwo Oyedele

Editorial: Oyedele’s Elevation and the Future of Nigeria’s Economic Policy

The recent cabinet reshuffle by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which saw Wale Edun removed from his role as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Taiwo Oyedele elevated to that position, is more than a personnel change, it is a statement of intent.

Tinubu’s administration has faced mounting pressure to deliver tangible economic reforms amid inflationary trends, currency instability, and public discontent over the pace of policy execution. 

By placing Oyedele at the helm, the President signals a desire for renewed vigor and cohesion in economic management.

Oyedele’s background is particularly noteworthy. Before joining the cabinet, he was widely recognized as a leading voice in fiscal policy and taxation, having served as the Fiscal Policy Partner and Africa Tax Leader at PwC.

Tinubu Removes Edun From Cabinet, Elevates Oyedele To Finance Minister

Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu Removes Edun From Cabinet, Elevates Oyedele To Finance Minister

On April 21, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced a significant reshuffle within his Federal Executive Council, marking a pivotal change in Nigeria’s economic leadership.

The decision saw the removal of Wale Edun, who had been serving as the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, alongside Ahmed Dangiwa, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development.

This move underscores Tinubu’s intent to recalibrate his administration’s approach to governance and economic management under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to a statement issued by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the reshuffle was formalized through a memo signed by Senator George Akume.

The directive instructed Edun to hand over responsibilities to Taiwo Oyedele, who until now had served as Minister of State in the Finance Ministry. Oyedele’s elevation to the role of Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy signals Tinubu’s confidence in his ability to drive cohesion and deliver impactful economic reforms.

Woman returns to pursue bachelor's degree after 25 years, graduates with 1st class honours

A Triumph of Perseverance and Education

In a world where the pursuit of education is often interrupted by life’s responsibilities, the story of Olatubosun Olusola’s mother stands as a beacon of resilience and determination.

After completing her Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) more than 25 years ago, she faced challenges that forced her to put her academic dreams on hold. Yet, she never abandoned the vision of returning to school.

This year, that long-held aspiration culminated in a remarkable achievement: graduating with first-class honours in her bachelor’s degree.

Editorial Recap: Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections - A Nation at the Crossroads

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Editorial Recap: Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections - A Nation at the Crossroads

Nigeria’s 2027 general elections are shaping up to be a defining moment for the country’s democracy, with electoral reforms, party primaries, insecurity, and civil society demands converging to test the resilience of its institutions. The stakes are high as political parties, citizens, and watchdogs prepare for a contest that could reshape governance and accountability.

INEC’s Revised Timetable and Electoral Framework

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released a revised timetable following the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026. Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for February 20, 2027, while Governorship and State Assembly elections will follow on March 6, 2027. This adjustment was made to avoid clashes with Ramadan, reflecting sensitivity to Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape. The new law also introduces stricter guidelines for campaign financing and electronic transmission of results, aiming to bolster transparency.

NUJ vs NBC Advisory

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has condemned the National Broadcasting Commission’s (NBC) latest advisory to broadcasters, describing it as a “veiled attempt at censorship” that threatens press freedom and editorial independence in Nigeria. The NUJ argues that the directive undermines constitutional rights and could institutionalize media gagging.

NUJ vs NBC Advisory

Background

On April 17, 2026, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) issued a directive warning broadcasters against violations of the sixth edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. The commission highlighted concerns over presenters expressing personal opinions as facts, intimidating guests, or failing to uphold professional standards during news and political programs. NBC warned that such infractions would attract sanctions.

NUJ’s Response

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), through its National Secretary Achike Chude, released a statement on April 20, 2026, expressing grave concern and utter disappointment. The NUJ described the NBC’s advisory as:

- A veiled attempt to gag the media  

- An effort to institutionalize censorship  

- A direct assault on editorial independence and free speech

The union emphasized that journalists must retain the freedom to conduct interviews, moderate debates, and present news without undue restrictions. It warned that the directive could erode Nigeria’s democratic values by silencing dissenting voices.

Editorial: A Timeline of NBC–NUJ Clash

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has long clashed with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) over issues of press freedom, censorship, and regulatory overreach. The latest dispute over NBC’s advisory to broadcasters fits into a recurring pattern of confrontations that highlight the fragile balance between regulation and free expression in Nigeria’s media landscape.

Editorial: A Timeline of NBC - NUJ Clashes

1999 - Democratic Transition and Early Tensions

With Nigeria’s return to civilian rule, the NUJ began pressing for greater media freedom. NBC’s attempts to enforce strict compliance with the broadcasting code were met with resistance, as journalists argued that the commission was acting as a political tool to silence dissent.

2004 - Sanctions Against Private Broadcasters

NBC sanctioned several private radio and television stations for alleged breaches of the broadcasting code. The NUJ condemned these actions, describing them as disproportionate and politically motivated, warning that they undermined democratic debate.

2012 - Coverage of Political Unrest

During heightened political tensions, NBC issued warnings to broadcasters over coverage of protests and opposition activities. NUJ criticized the move, calling it an attempt to intimidate journalists and restrict coverage of legitimate political events.

Nigeria: The Curious Case of “Two-Month-Old Fresh Bread”

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Nigeria: The Curious Case of “Two-Month-Old Fresh Bread”

The unfolding legal drama in Nigeria over a woman’s claim that bread remained “fresh” after two months is more than a quirky headline, it is a window into deeper societal, legal, and consumer protection issues.

At first glance, the story seems almost humorous: bread, universally understood as a perishable staple, being touted as retaining freshness for an implausible length of time. Yet beneath the surface lies a serious debate about truth in advertising, food safety, and the credibility of consumer claims.

The case highlights the tension between individual expression and corporate accountability. On one hand, the woman’s assertion could be seen as a personal opinion or even hyperbole. On the other, if such a claim influences consumer perception, it risks misleading the public about the quality and safety of food products.

Europe’s Debate on Social Media Bans for Children

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Europe is currently grappling with whether to impose blanket bans on social media for children, a move driven by mounting concerns over mental health but criticized as simplistic and potentially harmful to children’s rights. France and the U.K. are leading debates, while experts and human rights advocates warn that such bans risk ignoring the nuanced benefits of online engagement and the importance of digital literacy.

Europe’s Debate on Social Media Bans for Children

The European Union finds itself at a crossroads in the digital age. With rising anxiety over the impact of social media on young minds, ranging from cyberbullying to addictive scrolling, governments are considering sweeping restrictions.

France’s parliament, for instance, is actively debating measures that could take effect as early as September, while the U.K. is weighing similar proposals.

At first glance, these bans appear to be a decisive response to legitimate concerns. Studies have repeatedly linked excessive social media use to anxiety, depression, and disrupted sleep among adolescents.

Parents, educators, and policymakers are understandably alarmed. Yet, the proposed solution, a blanket prohibition, raises profound questions about rights, fairness, and effectiveness.

UPDATED: Domestic airlines bow to pressure, shelve planned flight suspension

UPDATED: Domestic Airlines Bow to Pressure, Shelve Planned Flight Suspension

Nigeria’s domestic airlines have temporarily suspended their planned nationwide shutdown after government intervention, following a sharp 300% rise in aviation fuel prices. The suspension is conditional, with operators awaiting a crucial meeting with the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, later this week.  

Background of the Crisis

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) had announced plans to suspend all domestic flight operations beginning April 20, 2026. This drastic measure was triggered by the unprecedented surge in the price of Jet A1 fuel, which skyrocketed from ₦900 per litre in late February to ₦3,300 per litre in April, a staggering 300% increase.  

Airline operators argued that the fuel hike made operations unsustainable, as raising ticket prices to match costs would drastically reduce passenger traffic, while suspending flights would cripple mobility and logistics across the country.  

Government Intervention

The Federal Government, through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, appealed to airlines to reconsider their planned shutdown. Keyamo emphasized that suspending flights or hiking fares would:  

- Disrupt critical mobility and logistics networks  

- Damage public confidence in the aviation sector  

- Undermine ongoing reforms in the industry 

Nigeria’s Domestic Airlines Face a Crisis of Survival

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Nigeria’s Domestic Airlines Face a Crisis of Survival

Nigeria’s domestic airlines have announced a coordinated shutdown beginning today, April 20, 2026, as jet fuel prices have skyrocketed from ₦900 to ₦3,300 per litre in just weeks. This unprecedented surge has rendered operations financially unsustainable, threatening to paralyze air travel nationwide.

The decision by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to suspend flights is not merely a reaction to rising costs; it is a desperate measure to highlight the structural weaknesses in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Jet A1 fuel, the lifeblood of airline operations, has become prohibitively expensive, with prices climbing more than 300% in less than two months. Operators allege that the increase is “artificial,” pointing to exploitative practices by fuel marketers rather than global oil market dynamics.

This shutdown underscores the fragility of Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure. Air travel is not a luxury but a necessity in a country where poor road networks and insecurity make flying the safest and most efficient option.

A nationwide grounding of flights will disrupt business, tourism, and even emergency medical logistics. For Abuja, Lagos, and other major hubs, the economic ripple effects will be immediate: stalled commerce, stranded passengers, and heightened pressure on already overburdened road transport systems.

Comparative Outlook: Nigeria’s Import Ban in the African Context

Comparative Outlook: Nigeria’s Import Ban in the African Context

Nigeria’s recent decision to ban the importation of cement, poultry products, pharmaceuticals, and other goods from outside ECOWAS is not an isolated act of economic nationalism.

Across Africa, similar protectionist measures have been implemented with varying degrees of success, reflecting a continent-wide struggle to balance industrial growth with consumer welfare.

In Kenya, for instance, the government’s periodic restrictions on poultry and dairy imports from Uganda and other neighbors were intended to protect local farmers. While these bans temporarily boosted domestic production, they also led to price surges and strained diplomatic relations within the East African Community. Kenya’s experience underscores the delicate equilibrium between safeguarding local industries and maintaining regional goodwill.

Nigeria’s Import Ban and Its Implications

Nigeria’s Federal Government has officially banned the importation of cement, poultry products, pharmaceuticals, and other goods from outside ECOWAS, effective April 1, 2026. This move, part of a broader fiscal policy, aims to strengthen regional trade and protect local industries but raises concerns about supply, pricing, and consumer welfare.

Nigeria’s Import Ban and Its Implications

The Federal Government’s decision to restrict imports of cement, poultry products, pharmaceuticals, and other goods from non-ECOWAS countries marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s trade policy. The ban, announced through a circular signed by Finance Minister Wale Edun, is part of the 2026 Fiscal Policy Measures and applies to 17 categories of goods.

Economic Protectionism and Regional Integration

At its core, the ban reflects Nigeria’s commitment to regional integration under ECOWAS. By limiting imports to member states, the government seeks to encourage intra-African trade, reduce dependency on global markets, and stimulate local production. Cement and poultry are industries where Nigeria has made strides in self-sufficiency, and the ban could further consolidate domestic producers’ market share.

However, pharmaceuticals present a more complex challenge. Nigeria’s local pharmaceutical industry is still developing, and restricting imports from outside ECOWAS may lead to short-term shortages or higher costs for essential medicines. This raises questions about whether regional suppliers can meet Nigeria’s demand with consistent quality and affordability.

Editorial: News Round-Up | At This Time

Nigeria is grappling with major economic and aviation challenges today, while globally tensions in the Middle East and debates over renewable energy dominate headlines. Locally, the Federal Government has banned several imports, airlines threaten shutdowns, and JAMB continues releasing UTME results. Internationally, a UN peacekeeper has been killed in Lebanon, Iran has rejected diplomatic overtures, and Europe debates social media restrictions amid energy shifts.

Editorial: News Round-Up

Nigeria

Nigeria’s news cycle today is dominated by economic policy, aviation industry turmoil, and education updates. The Federal Government has announced a ban on the importation of cement, poultry products, pharmaceuticals, and other goods from outside ECOWAS, a move aimed at protecting local industries but raising concerns about inflation and supply shortages. Meanwhile, domestic airlines have signaled a shutdown starting today due to soaring jet fuel costs, warning that operations have become unsustainable under current pricing structures. On the education front, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released additional batches of UTME results, bringing the total number of published results to nearly 1.9 million candidates nationwide. These developments reflect a country balancing economic protectionism, infrastructural strain, and the pressure of mass education.

Global

Globally, the headlines are equally weighty. In the Middle East, a UN peacekeeper was killed and three others injured in southern Lebanon after their patrol came under fire, underscoring the fragility of regional security. In Gaza, UNICEF has condemned the killing of water truck drivers, urging investigations into attacks that threaten humanitarian aid. On the diplomatic front, Iran has rejected overtures for renewed talks, signaling continued geopolitical tension. Meanwhile, Europe is debating blanket bans on social media for children, with the Council of Europe expressing skepticism about such sweeping measures. In energy, despite disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, renewables are stepping in to offset fossil fuel declines, highlighting the accelerating global transition.

The Power of Daily Habits: Small Steps Toward a Better Life

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The Power of Daily Habits: Small Steps Toward a Better Life

In a world that often celebrates dramatic transformations and overnight success, it’s easy to overlook the quiet force that truly shapes our lives: daily habits. Unlike short-lived bursts of motivation, habits are the invisible architecture of our days, steadily guiding us toward, or away from, the future we want.

Why Habits Matter

• Consistency beats intensity: A single workout won’t change your health, but exercising regularly will.
• Habits compound over time: Just like interest in a savings account, small actions accumulate into significant results.
• They reduce decision fatigue: When good behaviors become automatic, you save mental energy for bigger challenges.

Building Better Habits

1.   Start small: Aim for two minutes of reading instead of promising yourself an hour.

2.   Anchor to existing routines: Brush your teeth, then meditate for one minute.

3.   Track progress: A simple checklist or journal reinforces consistency.

4.   Celebrate wins: Reward yourself for sticking to the plan, no matter how small the step.

The Echoes of Dawn

 
BY: Ward9ice

The Echoes of Dawn

Scene One: The River’s Whisper

The mist rose gently from the riverbank, curling like secrets into the morning air. A fisherman, weary yet resolute, cast his net with the rhythm of someone who had done so for generations. The water shimmered, reflecting not just the sky but the weight of unspoken stories. Birds circled above, their cries piercing the silence, as though warning of a change yet unseen.

Nigeria’s Bold Move to Compensate Telecom Subscribers

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Nigeria’s Bold Move to Compensate Telecom Subscribers

Nigeria’s most important and trending business story right now is the government’s enforcement of a landmark policy requiring telecom operators to compensate subscribers for dropped calls and poor service quality, beginning April 2026. This decision marks a turning point in consumer protection and could reshape the dynamics of one of Africa’s largest telecom markets.

A New Era of Consumer-Centric Regulation

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced that telecom operators must now provide financial or service-based compensation to customers who experience call failures, prolonged outages, or poor connectivity. This is not a symbolic gesture, it is a regulatory mandate designed to hold service providers accountable in a sector that has long been criticized for prioritizing profits over customer satisfaction.

Mobile connectivity in Nigeria is more than just communication; it underpins financial transactions, e-commerce, remote work, and everyday social interaction. By enforcing compensation, the NCC is signaling that consumers are no longer passive recipients of subpar service but stakeholders whose rights must be respected.

Nigeria’s Opposition Alliance - A Game-Changer or Mirage?

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The most important and trending political story in Nigeria right now is the emerging alliance talks between opposition heavyweights Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, which could reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. Their recent meetings and negotiations are stirring intense debate about whether a united opposition can challenge the ruling party’s dominance.

Nigeria’s Opposition Alliance - A Game-Changer or Mirage?

Nigeria’s political scene is heating up as three of the country’s most prominent opposition figures - Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, are reportedly exploring the possibility of forming a coalition. This development comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship, rising inflation, and questions about governance under the current administration. The prospect of a united opposition has quickly become the most talked-about story in the nation’s political discourse.

The Meeting That Sparked Speculation

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recently met with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso in Abuja, fueling speculation of a broader opposition strategy. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Kwankwaso may be open to working with Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, potentially as his running mate. These moves signal a serious attempt to consolidate opposition forces, which have historically been fragmented and weakened by internal rivalries.

Why This Matters

The ruling party has maintained a strong grip on power, but dissatisfaction among citizens is growing. Inflation has surged to over 15%, worsening the cost-of-living crisis. Many Nigerians are questioning whether the current government can deliver on promises of economic stability and security. Against this backdrop, a united opposition could present a formidable challenge in 2027, especially if it manages to bridge ideological divides and regional loyalties.

Opposition Status Is Earned Through Electoral Victories, Not By Emergency Coalition — Wike

FCT Minister and National Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, Barr. Nyesom Wike, PDP National Chairman, Mohammed Abdulrahman, the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu and the party's Deputy National Chairman (South), Aaron Chukwuemeka, during the Minister's visit to the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja, on Friday

Opposition Status Is Earned Through Electoral Victories, Not By Emergency Coalition — Wike 

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, on Friday declared that credibility as an opposition force must be earned through electoral victories, not mere rhetoric and emergency coalition, as he pledged loyalty to the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the party’s national headquarters, Wadata House, Abuja, Wike dismissed claims by smaller political groups positioning themselves as leading opposition voices, insisting that performance at the polls remains the true test of relevance.

“You cannot become an opposition party without winning an election. Those who say they are leading the opposition have not contested any election successfully,” he said.

Wike’s remarks come amid ongoing realignments within Nigeria’s political space, with parties jostling for influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.

2027 ELECTIONS WILL NOT SLOW DOWN INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVE IN FCT – FCT MINISTER ASSURES

L-R) Former Chairman, Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Hon. Victor Ihunwo, Director of Works and Projects, South South Development Commission, Hon. Marcus Nle Ejii, FCT Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike, Managing Director, Arab Contractors, Mohammed El edarous, and the Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr Richard Yunana Dauda during the Minister's inspection of ongoing Airport expressway to Kuje town road project on Thursday

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

2027 ELECTIONS WILL NOT SLOW DOWN INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVE IN FCT – FCT MINISTER ASSURES

… DISMISSES ATIKU’S CRITICISMS OF THE CURRENT GOVERNMENT AS BASELESS

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has reassured residents that the ongoing infrastructure revolution across the nation’s capital will not be slowed down by political activities leading up to the 2027 general elections.

Addressing journalists on Thursday, 16 April 2026 shortly after a routine inspection of the Federal Highway 105 to Kuje town road and the dualization of the Kuje-Gwagwalada road, the Minister dismissed concerns that governance might take a backseat to politics, maintaining that the administration’s focus remains on fulfilling its mandate to the people rather than being distracted by electoral cycles.

Speaking on the feasibility of implementing the 2026 budget in an election-heavy atmosphere, Barr. Wike insisted that work would continue at full speed.

He noted that while politicians may be preoccupied with campaigns, the technical partners and contractors remain focused on project delivery.