False Allegations Against Nyesom Wike Aimed At Stalling Massive Progress , Says Coalition

By Dansu Peter 

The Coalition for Truth and Justice in Nigeria (CTJN) has said recent false allegations against Barrister Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is aimed at stalling the various massive projects  going on in the FCT.

The group lauded him for his remarkable achievements in transforming the nation's capital. 

The CTJN said that false accusations against the Minister are aimed to derail the progress and frustrate his efforts.

The group, after an extensive appraisal of Wike's achievements, said the Minister has proven critics wrong, demonstrating exceptional leadership and vision.

Speaking at a pres conference in Abuja, convener Dr. Agabi Emmanuel said under Wike, infrastructure development has been prioritized, addressing population pressure, urban sprawl, and neglected areas. 

Agabi noted that the FCT is being transformed into a useful and aesthetically pleasing capital, with proactive measures addressing housing, transportation, healthcare, and governance infrastructure.

He said Wike's administration has addressed land grabbing, reclaiming illegally occupied lands for mass housing projects. 

The group also said that judges now have befitting accommodations, and rural healthcare has seen significant investments while teacher welfare packages have been improved, and the FCT Civil Service Commission has been established to decentralize governance.

The Coalition recommends continued support from stakeholders, religious and traditional leaders promoting peaceful coexistence, and security agencies maintaining vigilance. Wike's leadership represents a paradigm shift in governance and infrastructure development, creating a legacy worthy of duplication.

Given the right support, the group said Nigerians and FCT residents can expect improved living standards. 

The Coalition commends Wike's initiatives and encourages other states to replicate them. His achievements demonstrate commitment to equitable development, improved quality of life, and sustainable growth.

“Our findings revealed that the FCT administration under Barrister Neysom Wike indeed prioritized the provision of necessary infrastructures across the various area councils in the federal capital territory.  In the past, the FCT has had problems because of population pressure, urban sprawl, and the disregard for important areas,” the statement said. 

“Right now, FCT is being transformed into a useful and aesthetically pleasing capital thanks to the proactive measures made by Barrister Wike’s leadership to address these problems. In order to identify priority regions across the many area councils, the administration has used a rigorous approach. 

“Undoubtedly, a functional road network is a critical factor to urban development, economic activities, and the general well-being of residents. Recognizing this, it was also observed that the FCT Administration under Barrister Nyesom Wike has undertaken a major renovation of the road network within the Federal Capital City Centre. 

“This is evident in the news look of the city centre and other adjourning areas in the federal capital territory. The FCT administration has also commissioned new roads in areas that were neglected by successive administrations in the country. These efforts are not merely about repairing roads but transforming them to meet modern urban standards.

“The FCT administration, led by Barrister Wike, has made large investments in security, which is a fundamental component of any flourishing community. The FCT Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike has also addressed the notorious issue of land grabbing in the FCT. 

“The honourable minister went a step further by reclaiming these lands which obviously are not backed with any legal  or verifiable documents, and reallocating them for mass housing developmental projects. This is indeed commendable and a step in the right direction in addressing the housing deficit in the FCT while ensuring that land resources are utilized for the public good.

“The FCT administration under Barrister Nyesom Wike recently initiated steps towards providing befitting accommodation for judges. This in our opinion is brilliant and a welcome development in line with standard practices in other climes. It is believed that the members of the law deserve dignified living conditions. 

“Supporting the judiciary is a step toward strengthening governance and promoting sustainable development. The Coalition for Truth and Justice in Nigeria recommends this brilliant initiative to other states in the country in our quest for sustainable growth and development.

“It is indeed a statement of the fact that the FCT administration has made substantial investments in improving access to healthcare for rural dwellers within the FCT. This much was recognized by the Coalition for Truth and Justice in the construction of new healthcare centres and the equipping of existing healthcare centres across the FCT. The value of lives and properties have been at the top priority of the working Minister.

“The FCT Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike has substantial improvements in the remuneration and welfare packages for school teachers in the FCT. This, in our opinion, is the manifestation of a premium placed on improving workers' welfare in the FCT towards achieving a productive workforce to aid in the development of the FCT. 

“The FCT Administration in an attempt to decentralize governance in the FCT, established the FCT Civil Service Commission with the appointment of nine permanent secretaries to oversee critical sectors of the FCT. 

“The Coalition for Truth and Justice in Nigeria wishes to state in unequivocal terms that the FCT Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike has indeed fared brilliantly in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration. 

“Barrister Nyesom Wike’s leadership of the FCT administration represents a paradigm shift in governance and infrastructure development which is unmatchable by no one so far. He has created a legacy of transformation that’s worthy of duplicity by any leader that wishes to make a difference. We commend his initiatives and encourages other states to replicate it”.

Good Governance Advocates Laud Aviation Minister Over Improved Global Rating

By Dansu Peter 

The Good Governance Advocates of Nigeria (GGAN) has lauded  the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development,  Festus Keyamo on his recently improved gpobal ratings.

The group also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration for its remarkable achievements in the aviation sector, particularly the significant improvement in Nigeria's global aviation compliance score.

Under the leadership of Minister Festus Keyamo, the group said the aviation sector has witnessed a spectacular turnaround, with notable milestones achieved in the past year. 

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Executive Director of the group Dr. Opialu Fabian noted that Keyamo's focused leadership and intentional reforms have fostered interpersonal relationships, trade, and economic expansion and development.

He said the Minister's proactive interaction with aviation sector stakeholders has guaranteed inclusivity and conformity to international best practices. 

Fabian stated that operators in the sector now have more confidence, creating a sense of hope for personal collaboration and business development.

He noted that Keyamo's strong commitment to safety has strengthened Nigeria's compliance with global standards. 

The group said the Ministry has significantly improved safety protocols, earning accolades from international bodies.

Fabian further said that the smooth execution of the Cape Town Convention is among Keyamo's notable achievements, adding that this accomplishment demonstrates the Federal Government's dedication to bringing aircraft financing and leasing in line with worldwide standards. 

According to him, these achievements align with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on infrastructural development, economic diversification, and international partnerships.

Fabian further said that the Minister has also emphasized human capital development, sponsoring training programs that improve aviation personnel abilities through international collaborations.

The organization urges stakeholders to support Keyamo's initiatives, highlighting the sector's far-reaching implications for Nigeria's economy and global reputation.

“For the record, the Honourable Minister has achieved more than just operations and infrastructure, though of particular relevance is his emphasis on the development of human capital. Mr Keyamo understood that to create a successful aviation and aerospace sector, he needs to create successful individuals, and it was in this light the Ministry sponsored training programs that improve the abilities of aviation personnel through collaborations with international aviation organizations,” the statement said. 

“This strategy makes sure that the reforms in place are sustainable and gets the industry ready for new challenges that could be handled by competent individuals. In addition, Mr. Keyamo’s dedication to promoting diverse global partnerships has given Nigeria new prospects. 

“His foresight in creating good policies and reforms have improved the industry’s reputation internationally and drawn in foreign direct investment by fortifying relationships with overseas aviation associations and financiers. Evidently, the Minister’s focus on transparency and accountability in the management of aviation resources has enhanced public trust. 

“The tales of mismanagement and misappropriation of funds is now a closed chapter in our aviation sector. For sustainability within the sector and entrenching a mindset of equity among the citizens, Mr Keyamo  obtained approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to withdraw the ticket payment exemption granted to highly placed Nigerians at the nation’s airports. 

“His sagacious approach in sweeping through the Ministry, has shown a steadfast commitment and positioning of sector that’s delivering value to Nigerians while adhering to global best practices. 

However, while there are still small issues such as  operating costs, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory barriers, nonetheless, we have faith that these problems will be successfully resolved by the Honourable Minister’s comprehensive reform strategy.

“Moreover , in position and retaining a man who have proved himself worthy through his work a commitments, It is clear that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s innovative leadership was essential to the aviation sector’s achievements. These accomplishments have been made possible by the backing and policy guidance of the president led-administration.

“It is worth mentioning that Nigeria’s aviation sector now serves as a model for other African nations. The reforms and achievements under Mr. Keyamo’s leadership have positioned the country as a leader in aviation, showcasing what can be accomplished through strategic vision and collaborative effort.  

“The Nigerian aviation sector is on an upward trajectory under the leadership of Hon. Festus Keyamo. While reflecting on the milestones of the past year, it is undoubtedly clear that the aviation sector is on a trajectory of growth and sustainability. This progress is a speaks so much of the Honourable Minister’s dedication, expertise, and passion for excellence.  “

Wantaregh Paul Unongo : My Fascinated Encounters

By Akosu Emmanuel

When I heard of the late Wantaregh's death earlier in 2022, I could barely muster the courage to pay a tribute to this great son of Tiv nation  and Nigeria owing to some obvious distinctive  parameters . Firstly I belong to the much younger  generation, so I thought I  entirely lacked the basic latitude and depth  to make   any substantial and credible commentary  on this Iconic son of Tiv nation who is a detribalised Nigerian  and quintessential statesman. But impulsively my moral instinct began to gradually aggravate naturally, knowing  that I owe a bit more of a moral compass to dare some eulogy in honor of this remarkable figure.  Afterall I could , no matter how feeble, attempt some conscious visible instances of  rare encounters with this sage which I consider worth mentioning , especially now that he has gone the way of all mortals,  howbeit at an impressively great age with very impactful prints on the sands of time. 

 In the early and late 1990s, Wantaregh Paul Unongo was very much relevant in the politics and leadership direction  of this nation, and at this time I had started growing up into a knowledgeable adult and already a student  in the college . So I owe atleast the moral impetus to pay some  tribute to our very revered Wantaregh. 

Paul Unongo's public personality became pronounced in 1983 as far as  my infant fascinations could  hold .  This was  when he squared it up against then incumbent governor Aper Aku for the Benue governorship . I was a little innocent boy in basic  school then, and in my innocence I  could listen  and  perfectly recite  the then political songs on his campaign vehicles  with lines like ' _antakeda anmbayev mba hen ato , bende tso u nenge Iorpuu Unongo awase u yo '_ composed by Faga Ajinge , a folksinger who was  famous for  Unongo's campaign songs.  These songs  daily blazed on the ahojas mounted on the  campaign vehicles of the NPP, the party which Unongo flew for the Benue governorship as its flagbearer.   Fondly too, I could also recite the famous ' _Aku baba wamooo, taver a taver Shima heregh , orapipi nguer gomna, orapipi una ya gomna yoo, saa jackie anyor Sha ihyura nuragh ...One Nation! ,_ 

which on the other hand  was Aku's famous  campaign song of the NPN.  I recollect when my father's eldest Sister in the Akosu family line , now Mrs Veronica Sohemba Chianson,  the first child of the Akosu's dynasty  would visit our family house  in Gboko  and I would literally become her  folksinger virtually mimicking these separate songs to her admiration. For her, I usually sang the Unongo's campaign  song that thrilled her the most, for she was an ardent supporter of the Paul Unongo's governorship in 1983 .  My audience especially my aunt  would consequently reward me with the  1 Naira currency note which I spent handsomely with my peers  buying biscuits, sweets etc.  

Again it became compelling for me  to attempt a simple  memoir on the legendary Wantaregh because of other significant fascinating encounters with him . This time it was at the return of democracy in the aborted second republic of 1992/93 when he became a prominent  figure during the SDP/ NRC  era. This time ,  I lived and was mentored by my cousin , the late Basil Chianson,  a famous social crusader and politician  who was a strong protege of Wantaregh. I lived with him at his  home at 7th Avenue   Iyorkyaa Ako Street Makurdi which also became  a beehive of political interactions with a retinue of politicians as guests including Prof David Iornem, Iyorchia Ayu, and the legendary Wantaregh who I beheld  visiting on one  rare occasion . Sometimes , Basil Chianson would take me  in company to the Unongo's residence located  at School Lane in Makurdi where I would behold the elegance of this great son of Tiv land , even though I was a bit naive to relate with the sage at the time , his simplicity and communication prowess with his several supporters and admirers inspired me quite good and  as a young man of my age it  made me grow some confidence which I was eager to indulge in for the rest of my life  . Basil  my cousin was a regular face at the Wantaregh's Makurdi even when the leader was not around. He  usually took over the management of affairs at Wantaregh's Makurdi home including some occasional incidences of  security threats on the family residence . For Wantaregh Unongo was in the opposition APP at the  time  George Akume  was governor under the ruling  PDP in the state . Basil was literally a son and confidant of Unongo . I began to see more of Wantaregh's replica  in my cousin who was bold , courageous, wit and.intellectually  agile in his social conducts and relationship with people . The philosophy that I could vouch for that  kept both going was because , the people mattered in their agenda , both the  high and mighty, destitute and rich, maimed and strong,  all mattered in the scheme of their social dealings and interactions. They saw the people as supreme and would sacrifice all for them as they sought for the people's mandate pre 2003.  

 

In 1993 during the IBB's SDP and NRC era. I could feel the pulse of politics filled all over with MKO Abiola as the Presidential  flagbearer and Revd Moses Adasu as the newly  elected governor towards the phase leading to the civil rule which was unfortunately aborted by the IBB military  regime . 

 I began to learn alot reading and writing of what made the pieces of the machinery and party propagation of the SDP,  and in the latter times the  APP which Basil Chianson did alot good work on . There were politicians like Samuel Ortom,  Hyacinth Nyakuma, Bem Dzoho, Hon Terfa  Atii, Hon Azer Ukende,  Hon Simon Kwaghbula, Pastor Atim Daa, Shima Ayati , Charles Torbunde, etc, who usually came around. 

By 2007, Unongo returned back to the PDP and we were at the ACC playground for the grand ceremony where he addressed the mammoth crowd of admirers on his signature apparelled overall  glistening white robe . I would thereafter confirm his traditional role as symbol of Tiv leadership at his Unongo Kwaghgise village when he took on the full regalia in the _nyamtsam_ symbolizing its great potentials and interaction with the ancestral world and the living . This time it was when he would lead the ritual towards the installation of Gabriel Suswam as governor of Benue State in 2007. Indeed Suswam won the elections. 

I am privileged to be Tiv and that Wantaregh really represented the symbol and pride  of Tiv nation anywhere in the world makes me proud anytime . This too is much to inform a tribute on this sage . Learning some impactful lessons from his life and times is so indelible .

 Adieu  the legendary Wantaregh!