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WIKE: VIBRANT LEADERSHIP AND THE ACTIVIST CRITICS

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FCT Minister, Barr.Nyesom Wike

 

By Ijewa, Zeb Obioma

One remarkable feature in the present political dispensation is the vibrancy in government circles. This is what helps Nigerians to stabilize their strained psyche in the face of near economic strangulation situation. Although certain political pontifications, economic calculations and system observations revel in the interpretations that there may be certainty in the hope of seeing light at the end of the tunnel, Nigerians, under the current hardship, are rather inclined to get prepared for a tougher future. The ‘hit the ground running’ attribute to the President Bola Tinubu leadership has lost steam. Nigerians are beginning to wonder whether the ‘running’ is in forward movement or in backward movement. However, the tonic in this administration is in having a person and character of Ezenwo Nyesom Wike as a member of cabinet and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Wike appears to be the pivot upon which all other meaningful activities in this regime revolves. He has revolutionized the engine room of administration and project development of the Federal Capital Territory.
Marking the one year in office of the Bola Tinubu administration was merely about commissioning the many infrastructural development projects accomplished by the Honorable Minister of the Ministry of Federal Capital Territory, H.E Bar. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike.
It is believed in some quarters that President Tinubu applied great wisdom in making Wike a Minister in His administration and, more still, putting him in charge of the Federal Capital Territory.
As if President Tinubu read the minds of Nigerians correctly, mostly those living in the federal capital territory, Abuja, Wike as the Minister could, as well, be the best gift ever to have been given to the residents of the Capital Territory. Many might not agree with this. They would like to talk about controversies – and this is the point where certain hibernating, stragglers, and off the mill self acclaimed activists latch upon, recently, to rant and make spurious allegations against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The eight years of former FCT Minister, could be defined as the worst leadership experience for the residents of the Federal Capital Territory.. While Nigerians lamented Buhari’s leadership doldrum, inactivity and insensitivity at the center, the then Minister of the Federal Capital Territory seemed to be apparently absent from duty. There was hardly any outstanding project which could be linked to his name. He has been adjudged the worst Minister of the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory ever. Yet our ‘attack dogs’ activists failed to direct their criticism and discontent in the former Minister’s direction.
Wike’s coming on board as the Honourable Minister of the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory has made all the difference, positively, in both administrative system and infrastructural development of the federal capital territory. A man adjudged ‘brash’ but also a man approved as most accomplishing in any assignment or task he sets his mind upon to do. Wike’s leadership mantra agrees with the popular saying, “A man whose name is always mentioned, must have accomplishments attached to him”. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike is a workaholic – a trail blazer of sorts and an achiever. He once came to the Federal Ministry of Education and delivered, even as a Minister of State. He went to Rivers state as an elected Executive governor where his good works for him baptized as “Mr Projects” not by friends and supporters, but by an opposition central government. No other Nigerian governor has been so ‘baptised’ or named by any key figure in an opposition federal government- then Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
This is the same Wike that has happened to the Federal Capital Territory as the Honourable Minister and before people woke up, he has splashed developmental projects all over the FCT both new ones and others abandoned or non completed by past administrations. In less than two years, the road network in Abuja has redesigned the developmental architecture of Nigeria’s capital territory. Junctions hitherto left bare, have been decorated with traffic light gadgets. From Nyanya through AYA to Kubwa; from Abacha Barracks through Asokoro extension to Kuruduma axis, and from AYA through Apo to Airport road, new roads and avenues have been built with astonishing network construction of overhead bridges purposed to obliterate sluggish driving and traffic nuisance occasioned by roundabouts. The rural outskirts are not left out in this infrastructural development spree.
Critic activists have not seen any reason to appreciate the Honourable Minister for all the above and more yet to be mentioned but would not waste time to make nonfactual and unfounded allegations about very minor demolitions that have been effected due to an overriding need for security and revitalisation of delineated places for special purposes of development which are in line with the master plan of Abuja. As far as Wike is concerned, If it is development, Nigerians must not be denied. After all, those who failed to engage development are now bearing the consequences of such negative impressions to their names – and they may never have a second opportunity to come back and rectify their administrative mistakes or failures.
Unfortunately Wike’s admirable developmental strides have drawn the ire of certain self styled political or civil society activists who hoped to capture on the spur of the aforementioned developmental initiatives to launch their somewhat imbecile attacks on the performing Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
However, something worthy of note about those speculating and hibernating self styled activists is that they operate from the unpopular angle of “sour grape” syndrome. These sets of ‘activists’ have been mere ‘street actors’ who had, at one time or another in the past, approached the Honourable Minister for one favour or another. They forget that as much kind hearted as Wike is, he diligently applies discerning instincts to know well intended aspirations or ends as against selfish and or blackmail motives. Wike needs friends just as everyone does, but he prefers to choose his friends and not the other way round.Therefore, engaging in unproductive criticism from a biased, non factual non objective and non constructive grounds would never serve anyone any good purpose.
Recently, there was unfounded and unverified news that the Honourable Minister collapsed. Some went further to wish that he died. One could only imagine that a fellow human – a mortal could be wishing another death. This is the extent to which some could stretch hatred. But such is left for morality and conscience to deal with. The insect, ‘kolo-kolo’ can only gather around the waist of the Iroko tree just to dramatize inexistent strength pretending to push the Iroko tree down:, in vain do they labour because they could never succeed. Wike has already emerged as a reference point in Nigeria politics reinventing the political ideology of fighting for what is right, just, fair and equitable.

Ijewa, Zeb Obioma

Opinion

DR. MUSTAPHA JIBRIN- ALKHAIRI: AN ICON OF HUMILITY

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Dr. Mustapha,JIbrin-Alkhair

 

BY UTHMAN BABA- NASEER MINNA

Dr. Mustapha,JIbrin-Alkhair

a medical Doctor of high repute can best be described as an astute professional medical doctor that has a Midas touch to humanity.

In the course of his professional callings in his field of endeavours, he has exhibited a high level standard in effectively carrying out his duty to God and humanity which are the ethical attributes of a medical doctor.

Dr. Mustapha JIbrin-Alkhair, inherited the path of medical line from his late Father Doctor Jibrin Alkhairi of blessed memory whose kindhearted informed his decision to pioneered the establishment of the first private hospital in Minna for the sake of humanity and the vulnerable indigent patients in Minna and beyonds.

His late father, according to a verifiable source in Minna had used his hospital to treat and conducted free surgery to various indigents and vulnerable patients in his hospital without taken a dime from them.

Dr. Mustapha Jibrin,a Public health expert of inestimable standard who has cut a niche for himself in his professional callings.

Dr. Alkhairi as is fondly called has exhibited his professional and leadership quality during his sojourn in the Niger State Ministry of Health when he was appointed as the Commissioner for health under the immediate past administration of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello.

His days as a Commissioner for health, Dr. Mustapha, has brought unprecedented innovations to the health sectors that has positively impacted on patients particularly pregnant women, children and aged as well as the indigents and vulnerable patients in Niger State.

Dr. Mustapha,JIbrin-Alkhair

Equally,Dr Mustapha Jibrin as Commissioner for health himself along with of senior technical and management staff, provide and oversight of: Hospitals and health institutions in the state primary health care agency,drug management agency, contributory health scheme,Emergency/outbreak operation centre, health training in the state among others innovations.

Similarly as the Commissioner for health in Niger State,Dr. Mustapha represented United Nation Education Children Education Fund (UNICEF) in Niger State and provided technical and programmatic assistance to health MDAs in the state. He also supported the establishment of working committee to coordinate HTR activities which included baseline and end-line assessment,training communications, monitoring and data analysis.
Supported micro- planing to determine target populations,health team composition and schedule of outreach services. Ensured data integration and reporting into LGAs,state and pollio reporting systems

He made it as a duty for patients to be treated at no cost while surgeries will be carried out on patients at an affordable rates knowing Fully well that government all over the world will not compromise the health of its citizens.

Also, as the Commissioner for Investment Commerce and Industry, Dr Mustapha conceived,formulated and evaluated policies and strategies related to investment,commerce and industry. He also formulated policies and programmes for the promotion and development of micro- medium and small-scale industries in Niger state. Developed strategies and institutional incentives to migrate Niger State from a civil service-oriented state into a major Commercial and investment hub to service the Federal Capital Territory.

This among others innovations were all conceived during his and under his leadership as member of the Niger State executive council under the immediate past administration of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello.

It is not out of place however, that Allah SWT in his infinite grace, the mantle of leadership of Chanchaga local government area will bestow on him at the November, Local government election in Niger State.

Dr. Mustapha Jibrin has paid his political dues in Niger State since the inception of the current democratic dispensation which to him politics is all about service to humanity.

His believe as a medical doctor,that ventured into the oceanic pools of politics having touched lives in many stratas of human endeavours, Coming in to politics is to continue to serve the larger society through impacting on them with the needed amenities that will have direct bearings on their lives.

Although,he was given the same mandate to serve the people of Chanchaga local government area which was truncated through litigation at the end the incumbent leadership of Aminu Ladan took over the leadership through litigation in court.

Dr. Mustapha however,took the court litigation with faith as a true believer in destiny he took the decision of the litigation behind him and forget ahead with all sincerity.

At the consensus conducted to select three suitable candidate to contest the November Council poll in Niger State, it was the decision of Allah SWT,the brought him back again out of the three aspirants he was picked to view for seat come November,2025. council election.

Aminu Ladan,the incumbent Chairman of Chanchaga local government area led some team of politicians from the council to pay him a congratulatory visit where he assured him of his Unflencshing Support at the November Council poll.

With all indication, Dr. Mustapha Jibrin Alkhairi, will pilot the Plane of Chanchaga local government to the enviable destination invite of Unprecedented track record of his achievements as Commissioner in the Health Ministry and Commerce under the leadership of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello.

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Opinion

May Day: Regional Ministry assures workers of fair wages, safe working conditions,equal opportunities

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Minister of Regional Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh

 

As the Nigerian workers celebrate May Day across the country on Thursday, Minister of Regional Planning, Engr. Abubakar Momoh has assured the nation’s workers of Federal government’s resolved for fair wages, safe working conditions and equal opportunities to its workforce.

In a statement he signed and made available to the media tagged,” Salutes Nigeria’s Workforce: Builders Of Our Nation’s Future”,the Minister extended his heartfelt appreciation to every Nigerian worker across Public service, Private Industry, agriculture among others.

” Today, we celebrate you—the heartbeat of our economy and the unyielding pillars holding up our nation.

“As the Honourable Minister of Regional Development, I am fully aware of the sacrifices, resilience, and tireless contributions you make daily in the face of daunting challenges. From the bustling urban centers to the most remote communities, your efforts drive progress, sustain families, and build bridges of hope.

“We do not take your labor for granted.”

Continuing he said,”Let me assure you that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, we are committed to delivering policies that not only foster economic growth but also ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and equal opportunities across all regions.

” In the Ministry of Regional Development, our focus remains on creating sustainable infrastructure and economic hubs that will generate more decent jobs and reduce regional disparities.

“Today is not only a celebration—it is a reaffirmation of our promise to stand with workers, listen to their concerns, and act with empathy and resolve.

“To every Nigerian worker: you matter, your dignity matters, and your well-being remains central to our development goals.

“Happy Workers’ Day!”.

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Opinion

Eid-el-Fitr:Your govt gives equal treatment to Christians and Muslims without prejudice-Muslims tell Diri

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Gov Douye Diri (center) being flanked by Muslim community during Ramadan festival.

 

By David Owei,Baylesa

Muslims in Bayelsa State, on Monday, gave thumbs up to Governor Douye Diri for his administration’s show of love during the Ramadan period.

Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, chairman of the state chapter of the Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Yakubu Otobo, who led other leaders to celebrate the Eid-el-Fitr at the governor’s hometown, Sampou, in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state, expressed appreciation for the support to the Muslim brethren in the state during their festive seasons.

He also thanked the governor for the regular pilgrimage sponsorship of Muslims throughout his first tenure.

Otobo described the administration’s welfare gestures as laudable, noting that Muslims in the state enjoy a rare privilege compared to their counterparts in other states.

His words: “On behalf of the Muslim community in Bayelsa State, we appreciate your unwavering support to us. Your leadership style is highly commendable because your administration gives equal treatment to Christians and Muslims alike without prejudice.

“In view of the governor’s magnanimity, the Muslim leaders and adherents in Bayelsa State pass a vote of confidence in your administration as we celebrate this joyous occasion.”

Responding, Governor Douye Diri expressed gratitude to the Muslim leaders, stating that they have been supportive and contributing to the development of the state’s economy.

The governor, who wore a white Babariga to identify with the Muslim community, urged them to promote religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence.

“As you celebrate Sallah across the country and the world, l want to identify with you. Let us not elevate our religious and ethnic differences high and above other religious groups.

“Wherever you reside is your home. Bayelsa is your home and so guard it jealously and not allow criminality in the state. We are all Nigerians. Let us continue to work hand in gloves to develop Bayelsa.

“Whenever we have security reports, you have always cooperated with us. There is no society where peace is one hundred per cent. Bayelsa still has pockets of crime but our state is ranked as one of the safest in the country.”

The governor advised the Muslim leaders to always channel their challenges to the appropriate government authorities.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, also commended the governor for extending a hand of fellowship to the Muslim community.

He added that the state government always provided food items and cash gifts at the beginning of the Ramadan to assist them break their fast.

The Bayelsa State Legal Advisor on Islamic Affairs, Barr. Bilkisu Odoko, also expressed gratitude for the government’s support and the positive impact it has had on widows and orphans.

She said the infrastructure projects of the government were attracting investments to the state.

Odoko appealed for Muslim women to be included in the government’s skills acquisition programmes and also be considered for appointments.

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