By Gloria Ikibah

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has commended the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his visible efforts in improving infrastructural development within the FCT.

While commending the minister over his developmental strides, the union also called for more economic reforms for citizens in the FCT.

This was contained in a communiqué released after the Council’s historic first Congress, held on Saturday at the Council’s Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.

The Congressmen used the occasion to discuss the state of the Union/Nation and urged relevant government authorities to improve the economic and social development of their citizens.

Other matters of urgent concern include the rising cost of living, poor supply of power, and insecurity in states across the federation.

The event, presided over by Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, was a significant milestone, bringing together over 400 members with former Chairmen of the Council and NAWOJ past leaders in attendance.

In her opening remark, Comrade Ike emphasised the commitment of the executive to the prosperity and unity of the Council.

“It is a privilege to welcome you all to this momentous first Congress of the NUJ FCT Council under our leadership. Today represents more than a formal gathering; it is an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to unity, progress, and the collective good of our profession,” she stated.

During the Congress, members deliberated on several critical issues, highlighting the rising cost of living as a major challenge. The Council described the escalating cost of basic goods and services as a heavy burden on Nigerians and called for immediate measures by the Federal Government to alleviate these hardships.

The Congress also expressed concern over the erratic power supply within the Federal Capital Territory, noting its impact on businesses and the daily lives of residents.

“The frequent disruption in electricity and water supply is pushing operational costs higher and reducing profit margins for businesses, placing an additional strain on the average Nigerian,” the communiqué stated.

It called on relevant agencies to prioritise the restoration of basic amenities to improve the quality of life in the region.

The NUJ FCT Council voiced its grave concern over rising insecurity, including disturbing reports of ritual killings and other heinous acts, linking these incidents to an economic downturn. It emphasised the need for a collaborative effort to address economic and security challenges.

The Congress concluded, pledging commitment to unity and advancement of the union for the betterment of her members.

The National Assembly has postponed its resumption earlier, fixed for January 28 till February 4.

The Clerks to the Senate and House of Representatives disclosed this in separate statements in Abuja.

In an internal memo dated Friday 24th January 2025, and addressed to all Senators titled: ‘Change in Resumption Date,’ the Clerk to the Senate, Andrew Nwoba, said: “Please be informed that there is a change in the resumption date due to the ongoing budget defence.

“It has been rescheduled from Tuesday, 28th January 2025, to  Tuesday, 4th February  2025, at 11:00 am. prompt.”

The House of Representatives also announced the postponement of its resumption in a statement by its Spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., titled: ‘House of Representatives Postpones Resumption of Plenary to Tuesday, February 4, 2025.’

The statement reads in part:

“The House of Representatives has announced the postponement of its plenary resumption, previously scheduled for Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The new date for resumption is now set for Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

“This development was communicated to Honourable Members through an internal memorandum issued by the Clerk of the House of Representatives, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, Esq., on the directive of the House Leadership.

“The postponement is necessary to allow Committees sufficient time to conclude ongoing budget engagements and defences with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

“This measure ensures a thorough and comprehensive approach to legislative responsibilities.

“The House remains committed to fulfilling its legislative mandate for the benefit of Nigerians and appreciates the understanding of all stakeholders.”

President Tinubu has mandated a reform of the N-Power Scheme to enhance its productivity and impact.

According to presidential aide, Dada Olusegun, in a post on X, the reform aims to connect youths through training and also link them directly to the market space and private sector, ensuring that acquired skills translate into viable job opportunities.

Olusegun said over 100,000 items have been procured to empower youths across the country.

He said the President has also approved a sum of N32.7bn for the implementation of the National Social Investment Program in 2025.

“Through cooperative clusters, Nigerians will benefit from low-interest credits of N300,000-400,000,” he said.

The presidential aide added that the initiative aims to empower vulnerable Nigerians, particularly women and youth, by enabling them to launch or expand small businesses, thus improving their livelihoods.⁠

“2025 promises to be a year of rewards for all Nigerians who have had to go through ongoing economic reforms as the administration seeks to fulfil the Renewed Hope agenda,” he concluded.