The Federal Capital Territory Administration has officially commissioned the newly completed Gaduwa District road network as part of its ongoing 30-day infrastructure unveiling initiative. The newly delivered infrastructure project is aimed at completely transforming the transportation architecture within Abuja’s rapidly expanding southern development axis. The commissioning ceremony signals a decisive step toward eliminating the historical backlog of uncompleted and critical public works across the nation’s capital.

Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the executive ceremony, Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded the exceptional pace of construction and urban transformation currently unfolding across the territory. Akpabio stated that the completion of the expansive arterial network directly fulfills the central mandates of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes the rapid delivery of motorable corridors to stimulate commerce and improve the baseline standard of living for urban residents. He further noted that the strategic utilization of top-tier engineering firms ensures the long-term durability of the FCT’s newly constructed transport pathways.

Speaking during the presentation, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike restated the administration’s policy regarding the continuity of public projects funded through taxpayers’ resources. Wike revealed that approximately 80 percent of the engineering and structural projects completed under his current tenure were carried over from previous administrative eras, emphasizing that abandoning inherited infrastructure wastes valuable public funds. The minister affirmed that the newly optimized Gaduwa District road network will significantly mitigate daily traffic bottlenecks for surrounding commuter corridors, while simultaneously opening up adjacent neighborhoods to upscale real estate and commercial investments.

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Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has warned that the rule of law is increasingly under threat in Nigeria, citing recent demolitions in Makoko and Oworonsoki areas of Lagos State as troubling examples.

Falana raised the concern on Saturday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the 2025 Annual General Conference of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR). The conference, themed “Advancing and Defending the Rule of Law in Nigeria: Stakeholders’ Tragedy and Way Forward,” brought together civil society leaders, activists, and delegates from across the country.

Speaking through his representative, Malachy Ugwumadu, Falana questioned whether the principles of the rule of law truly operate in Nigeria’s democratic system. He argued that the manner in which the Lagos demolitions were carried out reflects a deeper governance failure, particularly in the protection of vulnerable citizens.

“The question is whether we can boldly say that the rule of law is operational in our country,” Falana said. “If it were, what is happening in Oworonsoki and Makoko in Lagos would not be taking place.”

According to him, thousands of residents have been displaced during demolition exercises, with homes destroyed while occupants, including children, were still inside. He described the situation as a clear violation of basic human rights and due process.

Falana argued that the affected communities largely consist of economically disadvantaged Nigerians, making them easy targets for forceful state actions. He contrasted their treatment with that of residents in more affluent parts of Lagos such as Ikoyi and Ajah.

“The only offence of these people is that they belong to the demographic of weak Nigerians, those who are not financially buoyant,” he said. “Yet, their properties are razed, and their lives disrupted without adequate safeguards.”

The human rights lawyer also expressed concern over the shrinking civic space in Nigeria, particularly the handling of protests and dissent. He noted that activists who challenged the demolitions, including Soweto Hassan and Dele Frank, were allegedly manhandled by security operatives and subsequently charged to court.

According to Falana, such actions discourage lawful protest and erode citizens’ confidence in democratic institutions. He warned that the growing intolerance for dissent mirrors practices associated with military rule rather than civilian democracy.

“Our country appears to be sliding back into a military mentality,” he said. “I do not understand how we have sleep-walked into this situation, where peaceful protest is treated as a crime.”

Falana further accused the government of weaponising existing laws to silence criticism, particularly the Cybercrime Act. He claimed the law is increasingly being used to intimidate journalists and stifle press freedom, rather than protect citizens from genuine cyber threats.

Beyond demolitions and protest suppression, Falana lamented what he described as a widening gap between the rich and the poor. He argued that state policies and enforcement actions are deepening social inequality and weakening already vulnerable communities.

“Our country has always faced challenges, but the current dimension seems to deliberately weaken the poor,” he said. “This only widens the gap between the haves and the have-nots.”

He urged civil society organisations, activists, and human rights defenders not to relent in holding government accountable. According to him, sustained advocacy and collective action remain critical to reversing the erosion of the rule of law.

“We must stand firm and resolute in pursuing the cause we have chosen,” Falana said, calling on stakeholders to remain committed despite increasing pressure.

Also speaking at the conference, the Vice President of the CDHR, Yinka Folarin, acknowledged that defending human rights in Nigeria has become more difficult in recent times. He stressed that democracy cannot thrive without strict adherence to the rule of law.

“Democracy should be premised on the rule of law, and the rule of law must be the cornerstone of any democratic system,” Folarin said. “There is still a lot of work to be done in promoting and respecting human rights in Nigeria.”

The conference ended with renewed calls for stronger institutional safeguards, judicial independence, and greater respect for citizens’ rights, particularly in urban development and security operations. Participants warned that without meaningful reforms, public trust in democratic governance would continue to erode.

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By Umini Chioma

Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, seems to thrive on conflict, and his current trajectory suggests a high-stakes confrontation with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may be on the horizon.

Known for his combative political style and public outbursts, Wike’s ongoing feuds are stirring up tensions within the political establishment—tensions that could eventually put his own position in jeopardy.

A Pattern of Political Conflict

Wike’s political career has been marked by a series of intense clashes, making him a polarizing figure within Nigerian politics. The former governor of Rivers State has repeatedly shown that he relishes controversy and thrives in a climate of “tensile political stress.” Here are some of the key battles currently unfolding under his watch:

Rivalry with Governor Siminalayi Fubara: Wike’s struggle to maintain control over the political machinery in Rivers State continues, despite his official departure from the statehouse. Tensions between him and Fubara are palpable, with the latter increasingly asserting his authority.

Internal Tensions within the PDP: Wike has been embroiled in power struggles within his party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). His aggressive political moves have caused friction with fellow party members, drawing criticism from both old and new allies.

Conflict with Governor Bala Mohammed: The personal rivalry with Governor Bala Mohammed has also escalated. Public accusations of sabotage and intimidation have sparked a bitter feud, further complicating Wike’s relationships within the party.

Clash with Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Wike’s verbal sparring with the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, John Azuta-Mbata, has added fuel to the fire. The insults traded between the two leaders have only deepened existing divides within the political landscape.

Enduring Rivalry with Rotimi Amaechi: Despite stepping down as governor of Rivers, Wike’s feud with his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi, continues to play out in public, with both leaders locked in a fierce contest for influence in the region.

The APC Showdown: A Threat to Tinubu’s Agenda?

Wike’s recent clash with APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, signals his growing willingness to challenge the party’s top brass. In a heated exchange, Wike warned Basiru not to take his support for President Tinubu’s 2027 reelection for granted.

This remark has been widely interpreted as a veiled warning to the President himself, with Wike’s continued support being conditional on the preservation of his control over Rivers State.

This confrontation comes at a time when Wike’s influence within the APC is being questioned, and his potential to be a divisive force in the lead-up to the 2027 elections cannot be underestimated. Wike’s combative nature could very well threaten the party’s cohesion, especially if he feels his power base is being undermined.

Signals from the Presidency: A Pushback?

While Wike has remained a key ally of the Tinubu administration, signals from within the Presidency suggest a subtle pushback against his increasingly erratic behavior. Vice President Kashim Shettima recently reminded political actors that, traditionally, state governors are considered the leaders of their parties in their respective states. This comment appears to be a direct counter to Wike’s attempts to undermine Governor Fubara’s authority in Rivers.

This subtle intervention from Shettima serves as a diplomatic signal that Wike’s power may be curtailed if he continues to overstep. The contrasting relationship between Vice President Shettima and his successor, Governor Babagana Zulum—marked by loyalty and mutual respect—highlights the more stable dynamic the Presidency may prefer.

The Role of Alcohol in Wike’s Political Theatre

Some political analysts, including Kperogi, have suggested that much of Wike’s bombastic behavior is fueled by alcohol, which he allegedly consumes before making his most inflammatory statements. According to Kperogi, Wike’s “bravado” is often the result of his intoxication, and his public outbursts sometimes reveal sensitive information—such as when he recently hinted at his influence over judicial decisions in Osun State’s local government funding.

This theory suggests that Wike’s histrionics could be undermining his political credibility, especially when the lines between strategy and personal indulgence become blurred.

The End of Wike’s Political Noise?

The article concludes with a sober prediction: Wike’s increasingly erratic behavior and public spats are leading him down a dangerous path. While he may feel emboldened by his past successes and his position in the administration, the looming power of the Presidency could spell the end of his political reign. President Tinubu holds the power to remove Wike from his ministerial post, cut off his resources, and leverage his political rivals, such as Governor Fubara, to dismantle his influence.

Wike’s political “noise,” for all its attention-grabbing theatrics, may soon be silenced by the superior power and influence of the Presidency. If the current tensions escalate, Wike might find that his aggressive approach to politics has left him with fewer allies and fewer options for survival in the Nigerian political arena.

Wike’s confrontational politics have propelled him to the top, but they may also be his undoing.

If his escalating conflicts with fellow politicians and the Presidency continue, he could find himself facing an unavoidable reckoning. Whether or not he can navigate this dangerous political terrain will determine the future of his influence in Nigerian politics.

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has directed all public senior secondary schools in Abuja to close on or before Friday, November 28, 2025, citing urgent security concerns.

A memo from Aishatu Sani Alhassan, Director of School Services at the FCT Secondary Education Board, instructed school principals to end academic activities immediately and ensure students are safely dismissed.

Schools have also been advised to communicate the closure to learners, staff, and parents, adjust scheduled academic activities, and prepare to resume classes on the next official school day unless further directives are issued.

This decision follows recent attacks on schools in various parts of Nigeria, which have resulted in the abduction of students and heightened nationwide security concerns.

The FCTA emphasized that student safety remains a top priority and that all measures must be taken to protect pupils while maintaining order during the closure.

Authorities continue to monitor the security situation, with updates to be communicated as necessary.

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Retired police officers under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) have rejected recent welfare incentives approved by President Bola Tinubu, insisting that only a total removal from the scheme will address their concerns.

President Tinubu on Wednesday ordered the immediate implementation of free healthcare access for low-income retirees under the CPS, along with long-overdue pension increases. He also directed the National Pension Commission (PenCom) to urgently resolve lingering issues related to police pensions.

However, the retired officers, who have long decried the conditions under the CPS, described the reforms as insufficient.

“We are very happy that our cries have reached the President, and we appreciate his directives,” said Buba Danjuma, a spokesperson for the retirees. “However, what we want is our outright exit from the scheme. If we remain under CPS, we will still remain caged.”

The officers have staged a series of protests in recent months, including a demonstration at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, where they demanded an exit from the contributory scheme, which they argue leaves them financially vulnerable and excluded from fair benefits.

Danjuma further questioned why the police remain under the CPS while other security agencies, such as the military and the Department of State Services (DSS), have been exempted.

“The DSS and military have all left and didn’t bother to remain under the CPS because of its many disadvantages. Why should we remain?” he said. “We appreciate the President, but we want him to do everything possible to get us out of the scheme. We don’t want to remain there anymore.”

The recent presidential directive is part of broader pension reforms aimed at improving retiree welfare and safeguarding pension funds against inflation and economic shocks. Plans to include Nigerians in the diaspora in the pension system through foreign currency contributions were also discussed during a briefing at the Presidential Villa.

While the reforms signal a renewed focus on social protection, the response from the police retirees highlights ongoing dissatisfaction with the structure and management of the CPS—especially within Nigeria’s security sector.

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President Bola Tinubu has directed immediate action to improve the welfare of Nigerian retirees, with a focus on free healthcare access for low-income pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The President emphasized that providing healthcare and securing the dignity of those who have served the country remains a key priority for his administration. He also called for the urgent adjustment of long-overdue pension increments and the introduction of a minimum pension guarantee to protect vulnerable retirees.

These directives were issued following a detailed briefing at the State House by the Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran.

During the meeting, Tinubu highlighted the need to resolve the prolonged challenges facing police pensioners, stressing that security personnel who have served the nation must be assured of a peaceful and dignified retirement.

According to Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Ms. Oloworaran updated the President on ongoing reforms to safeguard pension funds amid economic pressures such as inflation. She also presented plans to open up foreign currency contribution options for Nigerians abroad, enabling greater participation in the national pension system.

President Tinubu expressed full support for the outlined reforms and reiterated his administration’s broader commitment to economic inclusion and the welfare of ordinary citizens.

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Subscribers to the Renewed Hope Housing City in Karsana have appealed to the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, to fast-track the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O). Without these documents, they cannot access the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) financing promised under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Over 1,000 Nigerians, mainly civil servants and private sector employees, have paid their equity contributions of 10%–15%. However, the remaining 85%–90%, expected to be covered through FMBN mortgages, remains inaccessible due to the absence of the C-of-O.

Subscribers praised the rapid progress of the 10.4 km four-lane access road to the estate, highlighting the quality of engineering and timely delivery. They noted this development as a key reason for their early investment in the project.

They also commended the FCT administration’s reform allowing direct issuance of land titles to homeowners, bypassing developers. This policy, aimed at reducing delays, is seen as a bold and progressive move by the minister.

Despite acknowledging the fairness and transparency of the official land title fees, subscribers requested a dedicated desk in the Land Administration Department to accelerate processing for Karsana’s Renewed Hope project.

The group emphasized that without the Certificates of Occupancy, thousands of affordable housing units in Abuja will remain inaccessible, despite the significant progress made.

This initiative represents the first large-scale processing of mortgages for contributors to the National Housing Fund. The potential impact on homeownership in Nigeria is historic if administrative delays can be resolved.

The Association of Subscribers to Renewed Hope Housing City concluded by thanking President Tinubu, the Minister of Housing, and the FCT Minister for their leadership.

They called for urgent action to unlock the final stage of the project: homeownership backed by accessible, low-interest government mortgages.

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House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas presented President Tinubu’s letter during plenary, stating that the additional funds would top up the financing for the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway. The project’s cost rose by $47 million—to a total of $747 million—due to increased funding gaps beyond the original $700 million allocated .

The president’s request explained that the lead arranger’s commitments fell short, and while export credit agencies filled some of the gap, an extra $47 million was still required. According to the correspondence read in plenary:

“It is, therefore, necessary to increase the value of the financing for the project by $47m to ensure it aligns with the loan size agreed in the finance documents for the project.”

Additionally, the borrowing plan includes $300 million for the Nigerian Universal Communications Access Project. The funds will support the deployment of 7,000 telecom towers in underserved and rural areas to improve connectivity.

This supplemental borrowing raises the overall loan package from $21.54 billion to approximately $21.89 billion, encompassing other funding instruments like €2.19 billion and ¥15 billion, as well as a €65 million grant .

The approval followed a supportive report from Abubakar Nalaraba, chairman of the House Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management. He maintained that Nigeria’s debt remains sustainable:

“At over N145tn, the debt-to-GDP ratio of about 50 per cent is within the international threshold (56 per cent).”

He also noted significant progress in debt management:

“The current administration has succeeded in reducing the high debt service to revenue ratio from over 90 per cent to less than 70 per cent. The Federal Government’s capacity to service the new debt is bolstered by the anticipated revenue gains from the Nigerian Tax Act 2025, projected to grow by over 18 per cent year-on-year starting from 2026.”

With the formal adoption of this report, and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu presiding in the Speaker’s absence, the House officially approved the loan for both the highway and communications project .

The funding signals renewed momentum in completing the Lagos–Calabar highway and expanding rural connectivity, both key components of President Tinubu’s infrastructure and digital economy agenda.

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Alongside the foreign loans, lawmakers also approved the issuance of a ₦757.98 billion bond in the domestic market to clear outstanding pension arrears owed under the Contributory Pension Scheme. This measure, officials say, is designed to provide relief to retirees and reduce exposure to foreign debt risk.

The legislative session, however, was not without disagreement. Some senators voiced concerns about the nation’s growing debt burden, with Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central warning about the lack of a transparent repayment plan. He cautioned that future generations could be saddled with unsustainable obligations.

Supporters of the proposal, including Finance Committee Chairman Sani Musa and Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, defended the initiative. They argued that the loans were structured to finance growth-enhancing sectors and were essential for Nigeria’s long-term economic stability.

The Senate also gave the green light to a separate request to raise $2 billion through a Foreign Currency-Denominated Instrument Local Issuance Programme, which would allow the Debt Management Office (DMO) to tap into dollar liquidity within the country without placing additional strain on external reserves.

This borrowing framework comes as Nigeria’s total public debt exceeds ₦121 trillion, with external obligations above $43 billion. According to fiscal analysts, more than 90% of the country’s revenue is now channeled into servicing debt, prompting broader calls for fiscal caution and better transparency.

Meanwhile, in a related development, Senate President Godswill Akpabio used the session to address growing speculation about new state creation. He urged Nigerians to dismiss circulating reports suggesting that the Constitution Review Committee had approved the formation of additional states, clarifying that such proposals had not passed through the necessary legislative stages.

In a separate announcement, the Senate also revealed plans to hold a special plenary session in honor of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who recently passed away. Lawmakers are expected to reflect on his years of service and legacy during the event.

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The comprehensive loan package comprises $21.19 billion in direct foreign borrowing, €4 billion, ¥15 billion, and an additional $65 million in grants. Also included is a plan to raise approximately ₦757 billion through domestic bonds, along with provisions to secure up to $2 billion from a foreign-currency-denominated instrument issued locally.

The decision followed the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debt, chaired by Senator Aliyu Wamako. According to him, the request—originally submitted in late May—was delayed by a combination of legislative recess and documentation challenges from the Debt Management Office (DMO).

Senator Olamilekan Adeola, who heads the Appropriations Committee, confirmed that the loans had already been incorporated into the 2025 budget and the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).

“With this approval, we now have all financing streams—revenue and debt—aligned to fully implement the 2025 budget,” he said.

Senators in support of the plan defended it as consistent with global financing practices. Senator Sani Musa emphasized that the borrowing will be disbursed over a six-year period and is necessary for national growth.

“No modern economy develops without structured borrowing. This is part of responsible economic management,” Musa explained.

Backing the approval, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, Chair of the Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions Committee, noted that the loans are mostly concessional with extended repayment periods of up to 35 years, compliant with the Fiscal Responsibility Act and Debt Management Act.

He added that the funds are earmarked for capital and human development projects, spanning infrastructure, power, agriculture, security, housing, and digital connectivity.

One standout project is the allocation of $3 billion for the rehabilitation of the Eastern Rail Corridor from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. Senator Victor Umeh of Anambra Central praised the investment as a historic commitment to regional connectivity and development.

“This is the first time such significant funding is going to the eastern railway line. It’s a game-changer,” Umeh said.

Despite wide support, some lawmakers expressed reservations. Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) called for increased transparency and accountability, urging lawmakers to communicate the specifics of the loans to their constituents.

“Nigerians deserve to know exactly how much is being borrowed in their name and what these funds are meant to achieve,” Ningi stated.

Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau commended the legislative committees for their diligence, noting that the borrowing strategy was designed to ensure national inclusion and balanced development.

“This reflects the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Every region is considered,” Barau added.

The Senate reiterated that all borrowed funds must be channeled strictly toward capital projects in accordance with public financial laws and oversight mechanisms.

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