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FEC approves N1.04t for Works, FCT projects

Published

3 months ago

February 4, 2025

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N1.04 trillion for critical infrastructure projects nationwide, including major roads and bridges across states and key developments in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The approvals, granted during the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, yesterday, cover 10 major projects under the Federal Ministry of Works and five significant others in the FCT.

For the Federal Ministry of Works, Council allocated N885 billion for the building and rehabilitation of key highways and bridges across the country.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the approvals, highlighting the government’s commitment to durable road infrastructure, particularly through concrete construction.

One of the largest projects approved is the rebuilding of three sections of the Lokoja-Benin Road, a crucial trade corridor.

The project will be executed in concrete, with Section I (Obajana to Benin) costing N64 billion, Section II (Auchi to Edo) at N110 billion, and Section III (Benin Airport to Edo) at N131 billion.

The total cost for this projects stands at over N305 billion.

Another major project is the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which will span 130 kilometers of dual carriageway from Calabar through Akwa Ibom.

The highway, valued at N1.334 trillion, has been divided into multiple sections for phased construction, with ongoing work already progressing in Lagos and Ogun states.

The minister also said the Abuja-Kano Highway has been restructured, with N252 billion allocated to its development.

Section 1 extends from the FCT boundary to Niger State with an additional 5.71 kilometers, while Section 3 in Kano State has an expanded scope of 17 kilometers.

The 118-kilometer road will be built using concrete and will feature solar lighting installations.

FEC also approved the reconstruction of access roads to the Second Niger Bridge in Delta and Anambra states.

The Delta section will be constructed in concrete for N470.9 billion, while the Anambra section will cost N148 billion.

Other key approvals include N22 billion for the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway, N18 billion for the Musasa-Jos-Kaduna Road, and N12.75 billion for the rehabilitation of the Abia-Enugu road.

In Lagos, N3.571 billion has been approved for a comprehensive structural evaluation of the Third Mainland Bridge and Carter Bridge.

The assessment will focus on examining underwater piles and determining solutions to prevent deterioration.

Another crucial approval is the continuation of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway (Phase II, Section I), with a budget of N195 billion.

Umahi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cost-effective infrastructure, emphasising that transitioning major roads to concrete construction will ensure greater durability and long-term savings.

“By adopting concrete for key sections, we have saved significant costs compared to previous projections,” he said.

He also addressed concerns over delays and road quality, particularly on the Abuja-Lokoja Road, saying that contractors have been directed to fix faulty sections.

“We are not accepting excuses such as high temperatures for road failures. The affected sections are being redone with proper oversight,” he added.

Council has also approved N159.5 billion for five major infrastructure projects aimed at improving road networks, transportation, and estate access across the FCT.

Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, broke the news after the FEC meeting. She emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing mobility and socio-economic activities in the capital city.

Among the key projects approved is the construction of a bus terminal at Mabushi, located in Cadastral Zone Plot B06, Phase II of the Federal Capital City.

The N30.97 billion contract was awarded to Setraco Nigeria Limited and is expected to be completed in 18 months.

The government has also allocated N62.5 billion for the construction of Arterial Road N1, which will connect Wuye District to Ring Road II.

The project, awarded to Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited, is expected to be completed within 20 months.

Another major approval is the construction of the Kuje-Gwagwalada dual carriageway, a key route connecting satellite towns.

The contract, valued at N7.5 billion, was awarded to Gilmo Engineering Nigeria Limited.

The Council also approved N26.87 billion for the rehabilitation of the Old Keffi Road, a 15-kilometer stretch linking Kado Village to Dei-Dei and connecting to the Outer Northern Expressway Junction.

The contract was awarded to Lubric Construction Company Limited and is expected to be completed in 18 months.

Additionally, FEC approved N31.66 billion for the building of an access road to the Renewed Hope Cities and Estate Project in Karsana West District, Abuja.

Lubric Construction Company Limited will handle the project, which is also scheduled for completion within 18 months.

Bunkure emphasized that these projects will significantly improve connectivity and ease transportation within the FCT, benefiting both residential and commercial areas.

“The projects will enhance mobility, boost socio-economic activities, and provide improved access to residential and commercial developments within the FCT,” she said.

She added that the contracts would be closely monitored to ensure timely completion and adherence to quality standards.

Related Topics:Abia Enugu Nigeria president Tinubu

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A Chat with Janet Odio Okolo: A Mother’s Journey Raising a Child with Down Syndrome

Published

7 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Gloria Ikibah

Down syndrome: It’s a congenital condition characterized by a distinctive pattern of physical characteristics including a flattened skull, pronounced folds of skin in the inner corners of the eyes, large tongue, and short stature, and by some degree of limitation of intellectual ability and social and practical skills. It usually arises from a defect involving chromosome. Above definition succinctly describes what Janet Odio Okolo had to go through to sustain her daughter. In this chat she narrated her experience to naijablitznews Associate Editor, Gloria Ikibah, excerpts.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

My name is Janet Odio Okolo. I often introduce myself as a proud mother of a 13-year-old girl, Isioma, who lives with Down syndrome. I call her my “star girl.”

Professionally, I’m into catering and equipment rentals. I provide catering equipment like plates, cutlery, chafing dishes, and more to other caterers. Alongside that, I run a few side businesses to support my family.

What has been the most rewarding part of raising a child with Down syndrome? And how has it impacted your life and perspective?

Raising Isioma has helped me discover parts of myself I didn’t know existed—patience, empathy, selflessness.

She has taught me to see people beyond the surface, to understand others deeply and kindly. These qualities have added great value to my life and relationships. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, and I am better for it.

There are often different perceptions about Down syndrome. What’s yours?

I had prior knowledge about Down syndrome before Isioma was born, so it wasn’t a total shock. People have different opinions—some based on facts, others rooted in myths.

But for me, Isioma is God’s creation. I didn’t create her, but she came into my life with purpose. I embraced her fully, and that acceptance has made the journey smoother.

Can you share a particular challenge you’ve faced raising Isioma and how you overcame it?

There are challenges, no doubt, but I’ve chosen to see them as opportunities for growth. One that stands out is watching her peers, cousins, friends progress faster. At 2 or 3 years old, they were on the same level, but over time, many of them moved ahead academically and developmentally.

It used to bother me. Some of them are now in secondary school or boarding houses, while Isioma is still in primary school. But I remind myself that every child moves at their own pace. With the right support, Isioma will get there, and she’s already doing very well.

How do you think society can better support and include individuals with Down syndrome?

Support must go beyond the family, it must come from the entire society. These children live in communities, go to school, attend church, and access healthcare.

In schools, there should be inclusive programs tailored to their pace. Let them participate in games, cultural days, and other activities. Don’t exclude them because they “can’t dance” or “can’t sing.” Involve them.

In the neighbourhood, encourage inclusion during play. For instance, a friend told me her son who also has Down syndrome is often excluded from football because he scores own goals. But I say: be patient, teach him the rules, guide him. That’s what inclusion looks like.

In churches, let’s involve them in prayers, praise, and worship. Make them feel seen and valued.

Hospitals should be more patient and friendly with these children. That environment should make them feel safe and open.

And for family members and friends support can be as simple as offering to look after the child for a weekend so the parent can rest. That kind of emotional and practical support goes a long way.

What are your hopes and dreams for Isioma? What steps are you taking to help her achieve them?

Oh, I have big dreams for her! And she has dreams too. For example, Isioma loves the runway, she loves to strut like a model.

So, I’m investing in that. I got her a coach to help her build on this interest. My goal is for her to be independent one day, to earn a living through something she enjoys.

Parents need to pay attention, observe what their children love, then build on it. Some want to bake, sing, sew, or dance. Equip them with skills. That’s what I’m doing with Isioma. Even if I’m not around tomorrow, I want her to be confident and self-sufficient.

What advice would you give to parents who’ve just received a Down syndrome diagnosis for their child?

The first step is acceptance. Don’t live in denial. Don’t say, “God forbid” or “I reject it.” That only delays the journey to support.

I remember when Isioma was about six months old, I took her to a popular hospital. The pediatrician just looked at her and bluntly said, “This child has Down syndrome.” She didn’t offer any emotional support, she just dismissed me. That experience hurts.

But instead of giving up, I started researching. I saw a lot online that was scary and discouraging, so I decided to create my own path for her.

To new parents: it’s not a death sentence. With love, care, and professional support, your child can thrive. Don’t fall for superstitions, stigmatization, or spiritual manipulation. Focus on solutions. Be your child’s biggest cheerleader, and others will follow your lead.

How supportive are your other children?

They’re very supportive, although due to age differences and school schedules, they weren’t always around. But whenever they’re home, they show her so much love. They treat her like their little queen. The bond is strong, even in limited time.

What are your expectations from the government and society at large?

There are government policies for people with special needs, but the problem is implementation. These policies often remain on paper.

We need action. Especially in healthcare, many of these children have underlying conditions that require consistent medical attention. Parents, especially indigent ones, can’t always afford this.

Recently, I saw a young girl with Down syndrome at a fish market, begging. She looked unkempt. I was with Isioma, and people noticed the connection. I tried to reach out to the girl’s mother to offer help even if not financial, at least advice and direction.

Children like that are vulnerable to abuse, exploitation, and neglect. We need the government to provide safe spaces, education, healthcare, and skills training, especially for families who can’t afford it.

Finally, any last words to society about children with Down syndrome?

They are not a mistake. They are not a burden. They are people with potential just like every other child.

Let’s remove the stigma. Let’s embrace inclusion. Let’s create a world where they are seen, heard, and loved for who they are.

News

Hon. Nnamchi Begins Street Lights Deployment In Isi Uzo(Photos)

Published

8 hours ago

April 30, 2025

ADMIN

Honourable Paul Sunday Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo Federal Constituency in the 10th House of Representatives, has fulfilled his promise to illuminate communities in Isi Uzo Local Government Area.

The lawmaker has just begun the deployment of high-density solar-powered street lights in Ikem Nkwo, marking the beginning of a massive rollout of the street lamps across the communities in Isi Uzo.

This initiative, which started in Enugu East Local Government Area in 2024, aims to support the fight against insecurity in the state which according to him was to add to what Chief Security Officer of Enugu State Barrister Peter Mba had done to secure the state to attracts foreign investments.

The lawmaker expressed concern over banditry attacks, particularly by herdsmen, in some communities within Isi Uzo and Enugu East Local Government Areas in the recent pasts.

He believes that illuminating these areas with high-density street lights would help address the insecurity adding that he was prioritizing border and farming communities in Isi Uzo, where banditry has displaced residents and restricted farming activities.

Communities in Ikem, Eha-Amufu in Isi Uzo which borders Enugu and Benue State and Ugwogo-Nike in Enugu East have been vulnerable to these attacks due to their strategic locations.

News

May Day: Kalu Hails Workers, Applauds Their Role in Nation Building

Published

8 hours ago

April 30, 2025

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has extended warm wishes to Nigerian workers as the country marks the 2025 edition of International Workers’ Day.

Kalu praised workers across various sectors for their commitment and resilience, describing them as the engine that keeps the nation moving. He acknowledged their sacrifices and unrelenting drive, especially during tough economic times.

In his message, he highlighted the efforts of the current administration under President Bola Tinubu to improve the welfare of public servants. He referenced the National Assembly’s prompt backing of the new minimum wage as a sign of the government’s seriousness about workers’ wellbeing.

The Deputy Speaker appealed for continued patience and understanding from Nigerians, noting that the ongoing economic reforms, while challenging, are designed to bring long-term relief and prosperity.

Kalu also called for unity, and said the country can only overcome its present difficulties if citizens and leaders work together in good faith.

He therefore urged workers to keep the faith and remain steadfast in their duties, assuring them that brighter days are on the horizon, and wished Nigerian workers a peaceful and fulfilling May Day celebration.