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FCTA Demolishes Squatter Settlement, Hands over Land to NAF

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By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) at the weekend removed over 200 structures at the Nuwalege community, along the Airport Road in Abuja, to allow for the recovery of the land belonging to the Nigerian Air Force.

The FCT Department of Development Control which carried out the demolition exercise over the weekend, said the structures had to go to make way for the expansion of the presidential fleet area.

Director of the Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, told journalists after the exercise, that the Chief of Air Staff had approached the FCT Administration in October 2023, of their intentions to remove some squatters from the said land.

He said the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, impressed on them that it was the responsibility of the Federal Capital Territory Administration to remove squatters.

According to him, “We informed the residents residing on the Nigeria Air Force land about the impending action and granted them a two-month window to pack their belongings.

“When the Air Force approached us, we told them about the FCTA policy on relocation and resettlement of indigenous communities. However, other non-indigene are to move out of the location so that the Air Force can take over their land.

“There was serious sensitization and campaign as regards to the exercise. We went there, we marked the structures to be removed and we informed them and gave them ample time until after the yuletide so they can remove their valuables.”

He said the structures belonging to indigenous people, were however, left out because statutorily, “they have to be relocated and compensated, that’s why we are not touching their properties.

“During the demolition process, approximately 150 buildings were razed, with an estimated 70 more buildings slated for removal before completion.”

The Director, however, asked the Air Force not to commence any work without obtaining approval from the Department of Development Control, insisting they will have to submit their development proposals for vetting and approval before they can commence any development on the reclaimed land.

Some of the residents who were seen moving their properties out of the area said most of them were indigenes who bought plots from indigenes with the assurance that government had ceded the village to indigenes.

One of the affected persons, James Ugali, said the indigenes had not bothered to occupy the community. “The ones who lived here with us are less than one percent, while the non-indigenes occupied most of the community.”

The Abuja Inquirer had in December 2023, reported plans to relocate indigenes of Nuwalege community to make way for the expansion of the presidential fleet area.

Galadima, had at the time promised to investigate the issues of compensation of natives, stating that, “We will discuss with the Air Force, because obviously discussion behind the scene indicates that some form of compensation was paid. But, we have to be certain that this compensation actually was paid, and also those given this compensation.

“We are going to conduct further investigation by engaging the FCT Department of Resettlement and Compensation as well as the Nigerian Air Force, and find out if compensation has been paid to who and when?

“And then, we will discuss with our colleagues at the Department of Resettlement and Compensation whether at any point in time, there was any compensation that ascertained their claims as regards to the number of structures and people that are going to be affected by this expansion project.”

NEWS

LITFCMB Condemns Illegal Use of Facility, Commends NAFDAC on Enforcement

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By David Torough, Abuja

The Management of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board (LITFCMB) has strongly condemned the use of its facility for the production of fake products and any form of unwholesome activities, describing such developments as contrary to its long-standing commitment to promoting genuine trade and ethical business practices.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Board, Veronica Safiya Ndanusa, while speaking on the recent arrest of two persons connected to illegal revalidation of expired drinks and production of counterfeit consumables within the facility, said that relevant authorities have commenced investigations to uncover certain facts that will help in preventing future occurrence.

She warned that any individual or business found culpable of engaging in activities capable of jeopardising public health and undermining the integrity of local manufacturing would face the full weight of the law.

“As a body rooted in the principles of ethical business practices, transparency and genuine trade, we strongly condemn any activity that threatens public safety or brings the reputation of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board into disrepute. Our facility exists to provide a conducive environment for legitimate businesses to thrive, not to serve as a breeding ground for the production or distribution of counterfeit and substandard products,” Ndanusa stated.

The LITFCMB boss while commending National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for the enforcement operation; assured members of the public that the management was determined to work with all relevant regulatory and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the facility is free of illegal activities.

Ndanusa further urged traders and business operators within the complex to uphold established standards, warning that the pursuit of profit must never come at the expense of consumers’ health and safety.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of the nation’s Trade Fair Complex as a leading commercial hub, stressing that it would continue to support legitimate enterprises while maintaining zero tolerance for activities that undermine public confidence in locally manufactured products.

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Education

Makurdi Old Boys Association Inaugurates BOT October 17, Launches N1bn Secretariat  Project Fund

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Government College Makurdi Old Boys Association (MOBA) has completed arrangements to inaugurate its Board of Trustees (BOT) October 17, at the school premises.

The high profile event will also witness the launch of N1billion Appeal Fund for the construction of its National Secretariat Project.

A statement by the  Association’s National President, Dr Cletus Akwaya and the Central Planning Committee Chairman Cmrd.

Stephen Tadawus, reminded all members of the National Executive Committee (NEC), Board of Trustees Members-designate, invited Guests, and the entire MOBA family to attend the event punctually at Government College Assembly Hall, Makurdi beginning by 10:00AM   

The statement said the Governors of Benue state, Rev.

Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia; Plateau state,  Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutwang; Nasarawa,  Engr. A. A. Sule and   Bauchi,    Sen. Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed  are expected to grace the occasion as distinguished guests of Honour.

Similarly, the  Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Benue State, Dr. Adamu Margaret Ijaguwa and Executive Secretary, Teaching Service Board,  Benue State, Dr. Bem Tseen  have been invited as Special Guests, the statement said.

It named members of the Board of Trustees (BOT) to include Prince Yandev Amaabai, Senator Joshua Chibi Dariye, Senator Gabriel Torwua Suswam, Hon Hassan El Yakub SAN- Hon,  Alhaji Abubakar Giza, Prof. Terna Yawe, Chief  Rebo Usman, Dr. Dader Mazadu Bako, Engr. Ali Rabiu, Prof. John Wade, Arc. Terseer Dankaro and Titus Ihunduas Secretary of the Board.   

This event marks a new chapter in the life of the Association. We request all Old Boys to massively turn out and support the cause of giving back to their Almamater,”  the statement further said adding,   All concerned are therefore, requested to come together to make this historic event a success and to contribute generously towards the completion of Makurdi Old Boy’s Associations’ National Secretariat Project.”

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NEWS

Sanwo-Olu Celebrates Prince Olusi at 90

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Lagos State Govornor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of has described Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council of the Lagos Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC), as an epitome of loyalty, trust, integrity and wisdom.

Sanwo-Olu said this in a congratulatory message to Olusi, the Baba Adini of Yorubaland and Atobatele of Ekiti, on his 90th birthday anniversary.

The governor described the nonagenarian as a father, whose counsel helped his administration to navigate challenges.

“Baba has taken me as a son; in fact, I am his political son.

He has guided me and offered advice on several occasions on matters of politics and governance while maintaining respect for the office I occupy.

“He is a rare human being, whose wisdom, patience and peacemaking abilities remain invaluable,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu said Olusi remained a repository of knowledge on the political and historical development of Lagos and the old Western Region of Nigeria.

According to him, the elder statesman has an exceptional understanding of Nigeria’s political evolution.

“He can effortlessly recount events that shaped political decisions, from the days of the late sage Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Action Group to the current republic,” he said.

The governor also commended Olusi for his loyalty to the APC.

“Baba Olusi firmly believes that the party is supreme.

“He often emphasises that no political group or association can stand the test of time if members fail to respect and abide by the party’s decisions,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He prayed for a longer life and continued good health for the elder statesman.

“On behalf of my family and the good people of Lagos State, I pray that Baba enjoys good health for the rest of his life.

“I wish Prince Oluyole Olusi a happy 90th birthday anniversary,” the governor said. (NAN) 

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