By Gloria Ikibah

“I will be part of those who will engage Mr. President on the issue of conducting census this year”.

Speaket Abbas who noted that the budget of NPC was inadequate to conduct a successful census, said the Federal Government may consider other sources of funds, including the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF).

“I will see my counterpart in the Senate on how to see Mr President. It will be a historic thing in Nigeria while it would also be something that will immortalise his (President Tinubu’s) name”, he said.

Earlier, the Chairman of NPC briefed the Speaker on the plans for the census and the preparations made so far. He solicited the support of the House, and National Assembly by extension, with regards to funding and enabling laws.

According to Hon. Kwarra, part of the plans for the census included acquisition of technology, recruitment and training of officials, establishment of a situation room as well as advocacy/stakeholders engagements, including visits to former Presidents and ex-Heads of State.

He said: “On behalf of the House of Representatives Committee on FCT, I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Bar Nyesom Wike (CON, GSSRS), on your well-deserved recognition as the Minister of the Year by THISDAY/Arise TV.

“This prestigious honour is a testament to your visionary leadership, tireless dedication, and exceptional contributions to the infrastructural transformation of the Federal Capital Territory.

“Your unwavering commitment to service and your determination to improve the lives of residents and visitors alike to the FACT has been nothing short of exemplary.

“Through your bold initiatives and strategic policies, you have not only enhanced the aesthetics and functionality of Abuja, but have also reaffirmed the FCT’s position as a beacon of progress and modernity in Nigeria.”

“I celebrate this outstanding achievement with you and express my gratitude for your leadership and passion for development.

“May this milestone serve as an inspiration for even greater accomplishments as you continue to serve with integrity and purpose.

“Once again, congratulations on this remarkable feat. I wish you continued success in your endeavours,” he noted.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The faction of Afenifere led by Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a notable Yoruba sociopolitical organization, has appointed lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi as its new National Organising Secretary.

This decision was reached during a general meeting held on Tuesday at Pa Adebanjo’s residence in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State.

The announcement was contained in a communiqué jointly signed by Afenifere’s Deputy Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and National Publicity Secretary, Prince Justice Faloye. The statement confirmed: “The General Meeting considered and approved the appointment of Barrister Dele Farotimi as the National Organising Secretary of Afenifere.”

Farotimi’s appointment comes amidst recent developments in his legal battle with legal luminary Aare Afe Babalola, who has chosen to withdraw a defamation lawsuit against him. The lawsuit had been tied to statements made in Farotimi’s book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System.

Earlier, Farotimi was arraigned at the Ekiti State High Court in Ado-Ekiti and granted bail set at ₦30 million. The case attracted significant public attention, with prominent figures like the Ooni of Ife intervening to mediate. These efforts ultimately contributed to Babalola’s decision to drop the defamation suit.

Farotimi’s new role within Afenifere signifies an important step in his activism and engagement with Yoruba sociopolitical issues, further highlighting the group’s trust in his leadership capabilities.