Abuja

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A growing number of public primary schools in rural communities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are battling severe infrastructural decay, a situation that has forced many pupils to learn on bare floors, under leaking roofs and beneath trees.

Findings first reported by TheCable revealed that several schools in communities such as Yangoji East, Kigbe, Ebo, Gbagbalagbe and Makanima lack basic facilities needed for effective learning.

At LEA Nomadic Primary School in Yangoji East, pupils attend classes under makeshift shelters made from dried palm fronds and weak tree branches. The school, which was established in 2020, reportedly has no proper classroom structures, chairs or desks.

Nine-year-old Badiku Saliu, one of the pupils, said the harsh learning conditions discourage him from attending school regularly.

“I don’t feel comfortable during rainy seasons, but there is nothing I can do, so I skip school,” Saidu said in Fulfulde.

The pupil explained that the lack of infrastructure has weakened his interest in formal education despite his ambition to become a teacher.

The report stated that nearly 100 pupils in the school face similar conditions daily. During rainfall, classes are often disrupted because there are no secure structures to shield the children and their teachers.

Adamu Bauchi, a parent whose children attend the school, appealed to authorities to provide learning facilities.

“I ensure that my children go to school every day, even though learning occurs under trees. I want the government to provide boreholes, chairs, desks, tables, buildings, and other important things to aid learning,” Bauchi said.

The head teacher, Ladi Danlami, also described the school environment as unsuitable for teaching and learning.

“We demarcated the school into two classes because of a lack of structure and seats. The students sit on the bare floor, and some who can provide sacks sit on them while the teacher sits on these benches,” she said.

“The children and parents are discouraged, and they complain. We have also complained and written to authorities like the FCT Universal Basic Education Board and the Nomadic Commission.”

She added: “The school has nothing – no chairs, tables, or structures – and if rain falls, we cannot come to school, or we have to run home.”

At LEA Primary School, Kigbe, many pupils reportedly sit or lie on dusty classroom floors until they reach primary five before gaining access to chairs and desks.

“There are no chairs until primary 5. When I was in primary one, the pupils in primary 5 and 6 had chairs,” a pupil, Ibrahim Sheyemi, said.

“We are only managing the chairs,” she added.

Another pupil, Abdulrasak Aliyu, recalled that he spent years writing while lying on the floor.

“I started writing on the desk in primary six,” he said.

Teachers at the school also lamented the shortage of facilities. Dauda Dogara, the school’s desk officer, said both teachers and pupils struggle daily because of the poor learning environment.

“I share the chair with my students, and we don’t even have a table,” Dogara noted.

He said many pupils leave school before lessons end because of discomfort and health challenges linked to sitting on the floor.

At LEA Primary School in Ebo, over 50 pupils reportedly share only a few chairs with their teachers inside a mud-walled building.

“There are more than 50 pupils in the school, but many of them don’t come because we don’t have enough seats,” teacher Muhammed Dauda said.

“As you can see, the environment is not conducive. If not because it is government work, no one would leave the comfort of their home to come and sit here,” he added.

The situation at LEA Primary School, Makanima, was also described as unsafe after parts of the roof and ceiling reportedly collapsed due to poor maintenance.

“I am not happy to see our community school like this. The ceiling, the zinc, and the entire roof are damaged. Even if the children arrive by 7 a.m., once it starts raining, they have to return home,” a parent, Michael Monday, said.

The school’s head teacher, Alfred Katunga, warned that both pupils and teachers face danger whenever they enter the classrooms.

“It is not only the roof that is bad. The ceiling is also in a terrible condition and could fall at any time. We continue to teach while praying that none of the materials will fall and injure the children,” Katunga said.

“Whenever there is any sign of rain, the only precaution we take is to close the school. Even if the children resume by 7 a.m. and rain starts 10 minutes later, we have to send them home because we cannot risk their lives,” he added.

According to the report, several schools in rural parts of the FCT also lack toilets, perimeter fencing and adequate classrooms. Teachers and pupils reportedly resort to nearby bushes to relieve themselves.

TheCable reported that efforts to obtain comments from the spokesperson of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board (FCTUBEB), Patience Agonsi, were unsuccessful.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The cost of liquefied petroleum gas, popularly known as cooking gas, has started dropping in several parts of Nigeria after weeks of price increases linked to supply shortages.

Findings at some cooking gas outlets in Abuja showed that the product now sells between N1,450 and N1,500 per kilogram at stations operated by AA Shafa and Ranoil in areas such as Dutse and Gwarimpa.

Retail outlets in Kubwa, Dawaki, Bwari, Lugbe and other parts of the Federal Capital Territory were also found to be selling cooking gas between N1,650 and N1,700 per kilogram, depending on the location. The prices had earlier climbed to about N2,000 per kilogram in some areas.

The latest development indicates that cooking gas prices have dropped by between N200 and N350 per kilogram in recent weeks.

Checks further revealed that depot owners currently sell LPG between N1,065 and N1,100 per litre for a kilogram.

Despite the recent reduction, the price of cooking gas remains higher than the N1,000 to N1,200 range recorded before May 27, 2026.

Industry operators had earlier called for an increase in LPG imports to improve supply across the country.

Spokespersons of the Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria, NOGASA, and Nigerian Independent Petroleum Company Plc, NIPCO, Chinedu Ukadike and Taofeek Lawal, attributed the earlier increase in cooking gas prices to seasonal factors, rising demand and supply shortages.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced a 37-year-old man, Zakaria Garba, to death by hanging over his involvement in the 2014 bomb attack at Nyanya Motor Park, Abuja.

Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment during the conclusion of a mass trial involving terrorism suspects in the Federal Capital Territory.

Garba faced a five-count charge related to terrorism, which was filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. He was convicted after pleading guilty to the charges.

The Nyanya explosion occurred in April 2014 on the outskirts of Abuja. The attack claimed at least 70 lives and left many others injured. It remains one of the deadliest terrorist incidents recorded in the nation’s capital.

In the judgment marked FHC/KNJ/CR/985/2026, the court handed different punishments to the defendant on the five counts.

Justice Omotosho sentenced Garba to 35 years imprisonment each on counts one and two. The court also sentenced him to life imprisonment on count three and death by hanging on counts four and five.

The judge ruled that the defendant’s guilty plea, alongside evidence presented before the court, confirmed his role in the attack, which led to heavy loss of lives and destruction.

The conviction is part of ongoing efforts by authorities to prosecute individuals linked to terrorism offences and provide justice for victims affected by attacks across the country.

By Uzair Adam

At least five people have been confirmed dead and 11 others are receiving treatment after a three-storey building under construction collapsed in the Gudu area of Abuja in the early hours of Saturday.

Emergency officials said a total of 16 persons were rescued from the rubble, while search and rescue operations were still ongoing as responders continued to comb through the debris for possible survivors.

The structure, located behind Gudu Market near Gaduwa Estate in Durumi 3, reportedly gave way around 3:30am while workers, mostly labourers, were still on site.

The sudden collapse left several people trapped beneath the wreckage.

Victims who survived the incident were rushed to different medical facilities, including the Federal Medical Centre, Asokoro District Hospital, and Maitama District Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment. Authorities confirmed that five others were brought out dead.

Multiple emergency response agencies were deployed to the scene, including the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal and FCT Fire Services, as well as the FCT Police Command.

They were supported by medical personnel and volunteers, while anxious residents gathered near the cordoned-off area.

The FCT Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, who visited the site, said the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had directed that all injured persons be treated free of charge.

Confirming the development, the Head of Public Affairs at FEMD, Nkechi Isa, said rescue efforts were still underway.

“Search and rescue operations are ongoing as teams work tirelessly to ensure that anyone still trapped is reached in time,” she said.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the collapse as investigations are expected to commence after the rescue operation is concluded.

By Anwar Usman

President Bola Tinubu has approved the allocation of plots of land to Nigerian ambassadors and high commissioners-designate in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory minister, Nyesom Wike, disclosed on Wednesday.

The minister made the announcement while receiving the envoys on a courtesy visit at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.

The delegation was led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, as part of an induction programme for the newly appointed ambassadors.

According to the minister, the president’s decision was driven by the need to give Nigeria’s overseas representatives a permanent foothold in the capital for when they return for periodic briefings.

“The President believes that most of you do not have a place in Abuja… he will encourage you to see how you will put up where you can stay. Before you leave this morning, each and every one of you should have your form to apply for a land allocation in Abuja,” Wike said.

The minister further used the occasion to charge the envoys with the responsibility and urged them to defend and project Nigeria’s international standing. “You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” he said.

He tasked them with reinforcing the economic diplomacy work that President Tinubu had been conducting through extensive foreign engagements.

Mr President has travelled extensively to attract investment and partnerships. It is now your role to reinforce that effort by building confidence in Nigeria as a viable destination for investment,” the minister stated.

Wike also drew attention to development opportunities in the FCT, pointing to infrastructure expansion across the six area councils — Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali — as evidence of Abuja’s growing stature as a global capital.

Wike also announced ongoing partnership talks with Saudi Arabia and Egypt to develop key sectors, as well as plans to engage the European Commission on development cooperation.

He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s near-term prospects, saying: “I remain confident that by 2027, Nigeria will be more peaceful, more united, and stronger as a nation.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A woman believed to be mentally ill has delivered a baby girl by the roadside in Kwaita village, located in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

According to Daily Trust, the incident happened in the early hours of Saturday at about 12:30 a.m. The woman was said to have given birth without assistance.

A local resident, Saidu Musa, explained that the situation came to light after a neighbour spotted the woman, who is often seen around the roadside, and raised an alarm.

“It was my neighbour who first saw her. She usually stays around the road. When he realised she had delivered a baby, he immediately alerted the police patrol team,” Musa said.

Security operatives responded shortly after the report. They moved the woman and her newborn to the General Hospital in Kwali for treatment.

The FCT Police Command also confirmed the development. Its spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said officers on patrol from the Rapid Response Squad first reported the case at about 12:30 a.m.

She noted that the Gender Unit of the Kwali Division acted quickly after receiving the information and proceeded to the scene.

“The mother and her newborn were safely rescued and immediately conveyed to General Hospital, Kwali, where they received medical attention and were subsequently discharged in stable condition,” she said.

Adeh added that the authorities followed due process by informing the Welfare Officer of Kwali Area Council, Mr. Sadiq Kwali. She said both mother and child were later taken to the FCT Children’s Home in Gwako, within Gwagwalada Area Council, where they will receive proper care.

She further stated that the Commissioner of Police in the FCT, CP Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, praised the officers for their prompt response. He said they showed compassion and professionalism in handling the situation and ensured the safety of the woman and her baby before the arrival of the Gender Unit.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Amnesty International has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over what it described as a dangerous outburst directed at a journalist during a live television appearance.

The condemnation followed comments Wike made during an Arise TV broadcast, where he reacted angrily to a line of questioning. During the exchange, he said: “If there’s anyway to broke (sic) the screen, I would have shot him…”

The minister’s remark targeted Channels TV presenter, Seun Okinbaloye, and has drawn strong reactions from rights groups and media advocates across the country.

The incident took place during a media chat in Abuja on April 3. Wike addressed ongoing political tensions. He spoke on concerns about a possible one-party system ahead of the 2027 general elections. His comments came in response to views earlier expressed by Okinbaloye on Politics Today, where opposition worries, including those linked to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), were discussed.

In a statement posted on its official X handle on Saturday, Amnesty International described the minister’s words as reckless and capable of encouraging violence against journalists.

“Apart from inciting violence, Wike’s remarks violated Nigeria’s broadcasting code that the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) is supposed to be enforcing,” the organisation stated.

The group warned that such statements from a senior government official could create a climate where attacks on media professionals become more likely. It added that the comment risks portraying journalists as targets for simply carrying out their duties.

“This level of violent intent coming from a member of Nigeria’s federal cabinet is unlawful and unacceptable. Mr. Wike must withdraw his violent statement immediately and apologise,” the statement added.

The development has also renewed scrutiny of the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission. Critics have questioned why the regulator has not taken action, despite its record of sanctioning media organisations for perceived violations.

Wike’s time in office has been marked by several controversies. Observers say the latest incident signals growing tension between public officials and the media.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, known as ‘Customs Cares’, with the commissioning of a major project at Government Secondary School, Wuse, Abuja.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, performed the ceremony on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, in the presence of students, teachers and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi said the decision to adopt the school under the CSR framework has yielded positive results, especially in academic performance and the learning environment.

“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school. The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done,” CGC Adeniyi said.

He explained that the intervention goes beyond physical structures. He noted that it has opened up opportunities for students to interact, discover their talents and improve academically.

“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” he said.

The Customs boss also praised the school management for identifying key areas of need early. He said this helped the Service to focus on infrastructure and security improvements.

He stated that the Service renovated important facilities and installed solar-powered lighting to enhance safety within the school.

“This is a promise made and a promise kept. We are pleased that the project has been delivered on time and to the benefit of the students,” Adeniyi said.

Adeniyi advised students to make good use of the new facilities. He stressed the importance of building communication and public speaking skills for future success.

“You must take advantage of what has been provided here. These facilities are meant to help you discover yourselves and prepare for greater responsibilities ahead,” he added.

He also highlighted the need to maintain the facilities. He warned that many public projects fail due to poor maintenance. He called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to consider partnerships that will support long-term upkeep.

“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.

Earlier, the Comptroller in charge of the Customs Cares Unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the event celebrated both the initiative’s first anniversary and the delivery of one of its key projects.

She said the programme was designed to address development needs in communities where the Service operates.

“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country, and this intervention reflects the Service’s commitment to education as a driver of national development,” she said.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration. He said it shows a clear commitment to the future of students.

“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.

Hayyo commended the NCS for extending its efforts to key sectors such as education, health and the environment. He added that the initiative creates room for stronger cooperation with the education sector.

The Principal of Government Secondary School, Wuse, Josephine Ugwu, said the project marks an important milestone in the school’s partnership with the Customs Service.

She listed the components of the intervention to include the renovation of the multi-purpose hall, installation of CCTV cameras, provision of solar-powered streetlights and distribution of learning materials.

“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.

Ugwu said the project will have a lasting effect on students and improve the sense of community within the school.

Activities at the event included a basketball match between the Nigeria Customs Service team and students of the school.

The Customs Comptroller-General and his team also planted trees alongside officials of the Federal Capital Territory Secondary Education Board and other invited guests.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday received delegates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Rivers State at his residence in Abuja.

Those present at the meeting included the National Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, who recently retained his position. Lawmakers from the National Assembly and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly also attended the gathering. Other party leaders from the state were equally present.

The meeting followed the APC South-South Zonal Congress held in Asaba, Delta State, a few days earlier.

At the congress, Giadom emerged again as the National Vice Chairman (South-South), while Samuel Nwanosike was elected as the South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary.

The gathering is seen as part of ongoing consultations within the party ahead of its national convention.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Nigerian Army have killed a suspected kidnapper and rescued 19 people who were abducted in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The operation took place around Gidan Dogo after security forces received intelligence about the hideout of suspected terrorists linked to the recent abduction of residents in the Byazhin area of Bwari.

Captain Olawuyi Itunuoluwa, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations at the Headquarters Guards Brigade, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday. He said soldiers carried out the mission with support from personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilantes.

“The operation was launched following credible intelligence on the whereabouts of terrorists responsible for the recent abduction of residents from the Byazhin area of Bwari,” Itunuoluwa said.

According to him, troops confronted the suspects during the operation. The encounter led to an exchange of gunfire.

“During the operation, troops made contact with the bandits, leading to a firefight in which one of the criminals was neutralised, while others fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds,” he said.

He stated that security personnel later searched the area and recovered weapons. All the kidnapped victims were also rescued during the operation.

“Further exploitation of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and one locally fabricated firearm. Additionally, all 19 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued and evacuated to safety,” he added.

The army spokesman said the troops have returned to their base in Bwari. He noted that the rescued victims are currently receiving care.

Itunuoluwa also said the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya, praised the troops and other security operatives who participated in the mission.

“The brigade will continue to intensify operations in collaboration with other security agencies to rid the territory and its environs of terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities,” he said.

Onasanya also reaffirmed the brigade’s commitment to protecting residents of the Federal Capital Territory and ensuring the security of Abuja as the nation’s capital.