News
Wike commissions another solar-powered market in Abuja
Barely 24 hours after launching the Utako Farmers Market, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has once again made headlines by commissioning another major commercial hub, the first phase of the solar-powered Kugbo International Market in Abuja.
The market, which officially opened on Saturday, marks a significant milestone in the FCT’s economic transformation agenda. The first phase of the development features 1,600 fully equipped shops, and upon completion, the project is expected to house a total of 5,200 stalls. It will also boast 20 underground warehouses, 20 cold storage rooms, 10 restaurants, banking halls, a healthcare clinic, and dedicated police and fire service units. Daily foot traffic is projected to exceed 20,000 visitors, reinforcing its status as a premier commercial destination in the region.
Speaking through the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, Wike emphasized the economic and social value of the market beyond its physical structure.
“This market is not just a collection of stalls — it is a vibrant economic ecosystem,” he said. “It will boost trade and commercial activities, enhance revenue generation through taxes and levies, and, more importantly, create jobs for traders, artisans, logistics workers, and service providers. This aligns perfectly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Wike further lauded Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, Group Managing Director of Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL), for her effective leadership and strategic efforts in mobilizing investments and supporting economic growth in the FCT.
In her remarks, Amb. Tamuno acknowledged the minister’s unwavering commitment to urban transformation, praising the significant progress made in infrastructure and commercial development under Wike’s administration.
A notable highlight of the commissioning ceremony was the allocation of 120 rent-free shops to local traders. As part of Wike’s empowerment initiative, 20 shops were designated for each of the six area councils in the FCT, providing opportunities for grassroots entrepreneurs to thrive in a modern commercial environment.
The event attracted an array of prominent dignitaries, including former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara; former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana; Senator Anthony Yaro; Senator Binta Masi Garba; Prof. Suleiman Bogoro; and the FCT Head of Service, Grace Adayilo. In their goodwill messages, they commended the FCT administration and AICL for their commitment to driving inclusive economic development and positioning Abuja as a hub for sustainable investment and urban innovation.
Bolaji Adedotun Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, a Nigerian gospel singer, is died.
His family confirmed the unfortunate news in an official statement on Saturday.
Reports indicated that Big Bolaji slumped and died at the age of 50 at an event last night during a concert.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as ‘Big B,’ a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community. Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness,” the statement read.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled.
“Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.”
They added, “We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him will not be erased.
“As we navigate through this time of loss, we kindly request privacy to mourn as a family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers.”
The family also noted that funeral arrangements would be communicated at a later date.
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy.
“Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time.
“With gratitude,
“The Family of Bolaji Olarewaju,” the statement added.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider seeking re-election in 2027, claiming it would be politically unwise.
Speaking on News program, Baba-Ahmed said Tinubu should “throw in the towel” if he is truly the savvy politician many believe him to be. He argued that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost credibility, predicting their defeat in the next election.
Mocking Tinubu’s political maneuvers, Baba-Ahmed recounted how he backed various presidential candidates since 2007—culminating, in his words, in an “electoral heist” in 2023.
“If he’s that smart, it’s clear he’s going to lose in 2027,” he said, while suggesting that at least two candidates could defeat the president in the next poll.
He added that Tinubu, like former President Buhari, would fail to deliver on campaign promises. “Buhari didn’t develop Nigeria, didn’t provide security, didn’t fight corruption. Neither will Tinubu,” he asserted.
Baba-Ahmed expressed confidence that Nigerians will rise to reject bad leadership in 2027, uniting to bring genuine democracy to the country.
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