The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) is expected to arraign former Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday over allegations bordering on forgery and the presentation of false official documents.

The arraignment follows Nnaji’s arrest by security operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on July 1, shortly after his return to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The ICPC had confirmed that the arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into allegations against the former minister.

According to the anti-corruption agency, Nnaji is accused of forging academic credentials, including an alleged degree certificate purportedly issued by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

He is also alleged to have presented a forged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate during his ministerial screening process in 2023.

The former minister is expected to take his plea before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court.

The allegations have attracted significant public attention, particularly because they relate to the authenticity of credentials submitted for public office. As of the time of filing this report, the court is yet to determine the merits of the allegations, and Nnaji remains entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in accordance with the law.

Another High-Profile Arraignment Scheduled

In a separate development, the Nigeria Police Force is also scheduled to arraign the Director-General of the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, before the same court on Tuesday.

According to a charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/562/2025, Adeyemi and two other defendants will face an eight-count charge bordering on alleged forgery, impersonation and related offences.

The charge, filed on November 27, 2025, by police prosecutor Wisdom Madaki, lists several witnesses expected to testify during the trial.

Among them are the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, alongside Paul Emmanuel, Jeremiah Imoukhede, Ituah Sylvester, officials from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), Akimbo Shola, Adamu Balongu, and a Deputy Superintendent of Police.

The proceedings in both cases are expected to attract considerable public interest as the courts begin hearing allegations involving senior public figures and individuals accused of document forgery and related offences.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Nigerians are likely to face higher prices for essential goods in 2026, warning that the rising cost of living could deepen poverty and food insecurity even as the country’s macroeconomic environment shows signs of improvement.

The projection is contained in the IMF’s July 2026 World Economic Outlook (WEO) Update, which assessed global and regional economic trends.

According to the Fund, Nigeria’s economy is benefiting from improved macroeconomic stability and favourable terms of trade. However, it cautioned that increasing prices of food, energy and other essential commodities remain a major threat to household welfare.

«”Nigeria is supported by improved macroeconomic stability and favourable terms-of-trade effects, though higher prices for essentials are expected to further aggravate poverty and food insecurity,” the IMF stated.»

Global Energy Crisis Driving Inflation

The IMF attributed the inflationary outlook largely to the ongoing global energy crisis, which continues to push up the prices of fuel, transportation and essential commodities across many economies, particularly countries that depend heavily on energy imports.

According to the report, global headline inflation is expected to rise from 4.1 percent in 2025 to 4.7 percent in 2026, before moderating to 3.9 percent in 2027. The upward revision was driven mainly by higher food and energy prices.

The Fund also raised its earlier inflation forecast released in April 2026 by 0.3 percentage point for 2026 and 0.2 percentage point for 2027, reflecting stronger-than-expected inflationary pressures worldwide.

Inflation Outlook Differs Across Countries

The report explained that inflation will not affect all economies equally. Factors such as exchange rate movements, labour market conditions, persistent services inflation and country-specific economic policies will determine how severely individual countries experience rising prices.

The IMF noted that inflation is expected to decline only gradually in several advanced economies, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan and the euro area, while China is also projected to witness a modest increase in inflation from current low levels.

Geopolitical Tensions Pose Major Risk

Beyond inflation, the Fund warned that renewed geopolitical tensions—especially in the Middle East—remain the biggest threat to the global economy.

According to the IMF, any escalation of conflict could disrupt global supply chains, increase commodity prices, weaken currencies, trigger financial market volatility and ultimately slow global economic growth.

However, the report observed that a smoother reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and lower commodity prices than currently anticipated could improve global growth prospects while easing inflationary pressures.

AI Could Boost Growth—but Risks Remain

The IMF also highlighted artificial intelligence (AI) as a potential driver of stronger global economic growth if investments in AI infrastructure continue.

Nevertheless, it warned that excessive optimism surrounding AI and rapidly rising financial markets could create new macro-financial risks if not carefully managed.

IMF Recommends Fiscal Discipline

To strengthen economic resilience, the IMF advised governments benefiting from higher commodity revenues and technological growth to avoid excessive public spending.

Instead, it recommended rebuilding fiscal buffers through prudent debt management, improved tax administration and more efficient public expenditure.

The Fund also urged increased investment in infrastructure, education, renewable energy, digital technology and targeted social protection programmes to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Finally, the IMF called for stronger international cooperation to address commodity price pressures, debt vulnerabilities and global trade challenges. It also cautioned against export bans, warning that such measures often worsen supply shortages and increase price volatility.

For countries facing severe debt challenges, the Fund reiterated that timely debt restructuring under the G20 Common Framework, alongside continued IMF financial support where necessary, remains critical to maintaining economic stability.

A Senior Partner at Justice Chambers, Ekemini Udim, has offered a legal perspective on the controversy surrounding the alleged parking violation involving the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, arguing that the former Anambra State governor may not be legally required to apologise or pay the ₦25,000 fine demanded by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

The controversy followed a statement issued by Keyamo on Friday after an internal investigation into Obi’s claim that the tyres of his vehicle were unjustly clamped at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

According to the minister, CCTV footage and findings from the investigation showed that Obi’s vehicle was left unattended in a restricted parking area after he was dropped off at the domestic terminal on July 4, 2026. He stated that airport security personnel clamped the vehicle in line with existing regulations.

Keyamo further alleged that although the vehicle was later released following communication between Obi and an airport manager, the prescribed ₦25,000 parking violation fine was not paid. Consequently, he called on Obi to publicly apologise to airport officials and return within seven days to settle the fine.

Reacting in a video shared on Facebook, Udim argued that the minister lacks the legal authority to pronounce anyone guilty or compel the payment of a fine, insisting that such powers belong exclusively to courts of competent jurisdiction.

The legal practitioner cited previous judicial decisions involving the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), where both the trial court and the Court of Appeal held that the agency could not unilaterally impose fines without first obtaining a court determination of liability.

He argued that if the same legal principle applies to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), then the agency cannot independently determine guilt or enforce punitive fines without judicial backing.

Beyond that argument, Udim maintained that criminal liability is personal under Nigerian law. According to him, responsibility for an alleged offence rests solely on the individual who committed it and cannot automatically be transferred to another person.

He contended that if Obi was not the person driving and parking the vehicle at the time of the alleged violation, then holding him personally responsible for the offence would be inconsistent with the legal principle of personal criminal liability.

According to Udim, the crucial question is whether Obi personally parked the vehicle or whether the alleged infraction, if any, was committed by his driver. He maintained that unless Obi was directly responsible for the act, demanding that he personally pay the fine and issue a public apology would lack legal justification.

The airport parking dispute has generated widespread public debate, with legal and political observers offering differing interpretations of the minister’s directive and the applicable provisions of Nigerian law. Whether the matter proceeds to litigation or is resolved administratively remains to be seen.

The Founder and Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, David Oyedepo, has called on members of the church to actively participate in Nigeria’s democratic process by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a Sunday service at Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State, while delivering a sermon titled “Breaking the Curses of Life,” Oyedepo emphasized that Christians have a civic responsibility to participate in deciding who governs the nation.

The respected cleric noted that members of the church are not mere spectators in the affairs of the country but bona fide citizens with the constitutional right to influence leadership through the ballot box.

According to him, the numerical strength of the Living Faith Church gives it a significant voice in the electoral process, making it important for every eligible member to register, obtain a PVC, and vote.

“We have a civic responsibility as responsible citizens of our various nations. We are not passers-by in our nations. We are bona fide citizens of the nation and we have a right to participate in who governs us.

“We have a right to determine who rules us. And this church, with the millions that we have, has a say in it. So be part of it,” Oyedepo told the congregation.

His remarks come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum, with increased calls from religious, civil society, and political leaders encouraging citizens to participate actively in the electoral process.

Oyedepo’s message underscores the importance of civic engagement and peaceful participation in democracy, urging Christians to exercise their constitutional rights by voting for leaders they believe will advance good governance and national development.

The Abia State Government has celebrated the 83rd birthday of elder statesman, renowned educationist and former Minister of Education and Health, Professor Ihechukwu Chiedozie Madubuike, with glowing tributes and the launch of three books chronicling his remarkable contributions to education, public service and national development.

The event, held on Friday at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia, attracted an array of political leaders, academics, captains of industry, traditional rulers and other distinguished Nigerians who gathered to honour one of the country’s foremost intellectuals.

Leading the tributes, Governor Alex Otti congratulated Prof. Madubuike on attaining the milestone age of 83 and described him as an outstanding scholar, accomplished administrator, patriot and one of Abia State’s greatest intellectual assets.

The Governor said his administration deliberately celebrates deserving Abians while they are alive, stressing that societies that fail to honour their heroes risk losing their identity and history.

According to Governor Otti, Professor Madubuike earned the honour through decades of scholarship, integrity, visionary leadership and selfless service to humanity.

He explained that his administration places greater emphasis on merit, excellence and service than political affiliation, insisting that every son and daughter of Abia who has distinguished themselves deserves recognition irrespective of political or religious differences.

“We don’t care about political parties, where you worship or where you originally came from. What matters is your contribution to our State. Once you are our son or daughter and have served humanity with distinction, we will celebrate you because Abia comes first,” the Governor declared.

Governor Otti also used the occasion to highlight the ongoing transformation in the state’s education and healthcare sectors.

He disclosed that Abia State University has been revived through extensive rehabilitation of hostels and academic facilities, while Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic has regained lost accreditations and introduced innovative programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and 3D Printing.

The Governor further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to establishing the proposed Abia Seaport, revealing that feasibility studies are currently being conducted by a Chinese firm as part of efforts to secure funding for the ambitious project.

“We are serious about building the Abia Seaport, and it will happen in our generation. We are equally committed to delivering world-class healthcare and education because that is the future we owe our people,” Governor Otti assured.

Chairman of the occasion and former Governor of Anambra State, Senator Chris Ngige, described Professor Madubuike as an academic giant and patriotic Nigerian whose contributions to education and healthcare remain invaluable.

Ngige praised Governor Otti for honouring distinguished Abians and commended the quality of infrastructure projects being executed across the state. He urged the Governor to continue delivering impactful projects while calling on Abians to sustain their support for his administration.

Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, also applauded Governor Otti for recognising Professor Madubuike’s enduring legacy, describing the celebrant as a rare gem whose contributions significantly shaped Nigeria’s educational landscape.

Adding his voice, former Senator MAO Ohuabunwa commended the Governor for institutionalising the culture of celebrating accomplished citizens. He recalled Professor Madubuike’s distinguished public service career, noting that he served as Commissioner for Finance under the late Chief Sam Mbakwe before becoming Minister of Education, where he pioneered major educational reforms, including the establishment of state-owned, private and open universities in Nigeria.

Former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Sir Simeon Okeke, equally praised Governor Otti’s developmental strides, describing the transformation taking place across Abia State as unprecedented.

Responding to the honour, Professor Madubuike expressed deep appreciation to Governor Otti for recognising his contributions and commended the administration’s bold reforms in education and governance.

The elder statesman observed that Governor Otti had restored hope to Abia through purposeful leadership, saying the state had witnessed remarkable progress within a short period.

He urged the Governor to continue prioritising education by establishing a state think tank and considering the creation of a specialised technology institution focused on innovation, research and emerging technologies.

According to him, education remains the greatest catalyst for sustainable development and the foundation upon which the prosperity of any society is built.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of three books, including A Crumbling State: Issues in Nation Building and Development and Aka Ekpuchi Onwa: The Igbo Unbowed, both authored by Professor Madubuike, as well as Triple Heritage: Essays in Honour of Ihechukwu Madubuike, Scholar, Administrator and Public Intellectual, edited by Professors Chima J. Korieh and Victor Ukaogu.

The books, reviewed by Prof. Chima Korieh and Dr. Jasper Uche, explore national development, governance, Igbo history and the remarkable life and legacy of the celebrated scholar.

The event concluded with the cutting of the birthday cake and the official launch of the three books amid applause from guests.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Deputy Governor of Abia State, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, former Minister Dr. Sampson Uchechukwu Ogah, Chris Uche, SAN, Chief David Onuoha Ogba (Bourdex), leading academics, business leaders, clergy and other prominent personalities.

The Abia State Government has taken another bold step toward accelerating economic development by opening discussions with Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc on strategic partnerships that will support critical infrastructure, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and investment across the state.

Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, made this known on Thursday while receiving the Executive Management of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, led by its Group Chief Executive, Mr. Chuma Nwokeocha, at the Government House in Umuahia.

During the meeting, Governor Otti identified infrastructure financing as a major priority for his administration, revealing that the proposed Abia Medical City and the Obuaku Deep Sea Port are among the flagship projects for which the state is seeking credible financial and technical partners.

According to the Governor, the Abia Medical City project has already crossed a significant milestone with land acquisition completed, and the government is now preparing to commence implementation.

He also disclosed that the state is undertaking a feasibility study for the proposed Obuaku Seaport, a project expected to transform Abia into a major logistics and commercial hub in the South-East.

Governor Otti noted that beyond these projects, his administration remains open to collaboration in other sectors that will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for residents.

Commending Stanbic IBTC for presenting concrete proposals, the Governor remarked that meaningful partnerships are built on shared value rather than requests for financial support alone.

He further applauded the bank for its corporate social responsibility initiatives in Abia, particularly its intervention in rehabilitating a public school, while encouraging the institution to expand its developmental footprint across the state.

Earlier, the Group Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Mr. Chuma Nwokeocha, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting the economic transformation agenda of the Abia State Government.

He said the financial institution is prepared to deploy its expertise in infrastructure financing, housing finance, SME development, agro-industrial investment, capital market solutions, and strategies for improving the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Mr. Nwokeocha expressed confidence that a strategic alliance between Stanbic IBTC and the Abia State Government would unlock fresh investments, stimulate sustainable economic growth, and enhance the welfare of the people.

Explaining why the bank chose to deepen its engagement with Abia, he cited what he described as a strong alignment of vision and values with Governor Otti’s administration.

According to him, the partnership is inspired by a shared commitment to good governance, purposeful leadership, and the collective ambition to improve the lives of citizens through sustainable economic development.

The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Finance, other members of the State Executive Council, senior government officials, and top executives of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, highlighting the importance both parties attach to the proposed partnership.

If successfully implemented, the collaboration is expected to provide the financial backbone for some of Abia’s most ambitious development projects while strengthening the state’s position as one of Nigeria’s emerging investment destinations.

Another batch of Nigerians who voluntarily opted to return home from South Africa has safely arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, aboard an Air Peace evacuation flight, as the Federal Government continues its repatriation programme for citizens abroad.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development on Thursday, announcing that the special flight transported 282 returnees, made up of 272 adults and 12 infants, along with two government officials who coordinated the evacuation process.

The latest evacuation marks another milestone in the government’s ongoing voluntary return initiative, designed to assist Nigerians who wish to leave South Africa and return home safely.

On arrival in Lagos, the returnees were welcomed by officials from relevant government agencies, who immediately commenced documentation, profiling, and reception procedures. Authorities also assured that necessary support services would be provided to facilitate the reintegration of the returnees into society.

The evacuation exercise has continued in phases since it began earlier this year. The first batch, which arrived on June 9, brought home 258 Nigerians, while the second batch returned with 66 persons. The third batch comprised 269 returnees, reflecting the Federal Government’s sustained commitment to assisting citizens seeking voluntary repatriation.

The latest operation comes against the backdrop of renewed anti-foreigner demonstrations in South Africa. On June 30, groups of South African protesters marched through parts of the country, calling for the removal of foreign nationals, a development that reignited concerns over the safety and welfare of migrants, including Nigerians.

While the Nigerian government has maintained that the evacuation programme is entirely voluntary, officials say the initiative underscores its commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of Nigerian citizens wherever they may be.

As the repatriation exercise continues, authorities have reiterated their readiness to provide support for returning citizens and ensure their smooth reintegration into the country.

The Abia State Government has described the establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State, as a landmark investment that will strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, promote regional development, and foster lasting peace across the South-East.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, at the maiden Passing-Out Parade of the pioneer recruits of the 90 Regular Intake yesterday, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, said security remains the bedrock upon which sustainable economic growth and investment are built.

According to him, the present administration in Abia is committed to sustaining strong collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in ensuring a peaceful and secure environment that encourages business, investment, and social development.

Engr. Emetu commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his visionary leadership in expanding the Army’s training capacity and modernising military institutions across the country. He also applauded the Federal Government for establishing the first primary military training depot in the South-East, describing the initiative as a demonstration of national inclusion, unity, and balanced development.

The event also witnessed a passionate appeal by the Chief of Army Staff to youths from the South-East to take advantage of opportunities to serve the nation through enlistment into the Nigerian Army. Lieutenant General Shaibu expressed concern that recruitment quotas allocated to the region have consistently remained underutilised despite available opportunities.

He disclosed that the graduating recruits constitute the first batch of 14,000 personnel under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic military expansion programme, which aims to recruit a total of 28,000 new soldiers to strengthen the nation’s defence capabilities.

Addressing the newly graduated soldiers, the Army Chief charged them to uphold discipline, professionalism, loyalty, and patriotism throughout their careers. He emphasised strict compliance with human rights principles, the Armed Forces’ Rules of Engagement, and responsible use of social media, warning that any unauthorised disclosure of operational information would attract severe disciplinary measures, including dismissal.

Lieutenant General Shaibu further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel through better accommodation, healthcare services, enhanced training, modern equipment, and increased investment in local defence production.

Host Governor, Barr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, described the establishment of the Army depot as a historic milestone with enormous benefits for both Ebonyi State and Nigeria. He noted that the institution would strengthen security, stimulate economic activities, improve infrastructure, and promote stronger civil-military relations.

Governor Nwifuru also appealed for the speedy completion of the proposed Nigerian Military Reference Hospital in Ebonyi State and requested the release of approximately 982.7 hectares of Army land in Abakaliki to support urban expansion, while pledging continued support for the military through investments in healthcare and other critical facilities.

The colourful ceremony featured impressive slow and quick march-pasts by the pioneer recruits, presentation of awards to outstanding recruits and instructors, as well as the conferment of the traditional title “Omeudo I” on the Chief of Army Staff by the Ebonyi State Council of Traditional Rulers in recognition of his contributions to peace and national security.

The event attracted serving and retired military officers, senior government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic community, captains of industry, and families of the graduating recruits, underscoring its significance as a major milestone in Nigeria’s defence and security landscape.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for fairness, transparency and strict adherence to the rule of law following an emotional public appeal by Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, over her husband’s ongoing legal troubles.

Obi, who said he watched a viral video of Asiya El-Rufai’s appeal while in the United States, expressed concern about what he described as the need to safeguard justice from any perception of bias or selective application.

In a statement posted on his official X account on Wednesday, the former Anambra State governor said the video prompted him to reflect deeply on Nigeria’s democratic future and the importance of protecting the rights of every citizen.

“I woke this morning in America and was deeply moved by an emotional viral video of Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, prompting deep reflection on our nation’s future,” Obi wrote.

According to him, every Nigerian, irrespective of the allegations against them or their political affiliation, deserves justice that is transparent, impartial and rooted in due process.

Obi argued that bail conditions should never appear punitive before trial, stressing that democratic institutions exist to protect the rights of all citizens without discrimination.

“Regardless of the allegations against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai or any other citizen, justice must be transparent and fair, with reasonable bail conditions that should not be seen as punitive before trial,” he stated.

The former governor also cautioned law enforcement agencies against actions that could create the impression of selective justice, warning that such perceptions could weaken public confidence in state institutions and threaten national unity.

“We must resist any hint of selective justice that erodes public trust and threatens national unity. Those tasked with enforcing our laws must act professionally and strictly follow due process,” Obi added.

He concluded by reiterating his vision of a Nigeria where the rule of law remains supreme and every citizen is treated with dignity and fairness.

Asiya El-Rufai’s Emotional Appeal

Obi’s comments followed an emotional appeal made on Tuesday by Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, alongside Nasir El-Rufai’s other wife, Aichatou, at their Abuja residence.

Speaking directly to President Bola Tinubu, Asiya reminded the President of the political support her family gave him during the 2023 presidential election campaign and pleaded for what she described as fair and humane treatment for her husband.

“Mr. President, Sir, I campaigned for you. I stood up and went to every nook and cranny of Kaduna State for you. My husband stood by your side. Is this what our family deserves?” she asked.

She further alleged that her husband, who has reportedly been diagnosed with high blood pressure and high blood sugar, had been denied adequate medical care while in custody.

Appealing to President Tinubu’s sense of compassion, she added, “The ball is in your court, Mr. President. All these can stop if you say a word. We believe that you are a father, and we know you can empathise.”

ICPC Responds

Meanwhile, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has maintained that it complied fully with a court order by facilitating El-Rufai’s medical examination while in custody.

The commission also confirmed the arrest of El-Rufai’s personal physician, Prof. Bello Abubakar, over allegations of making false statements concerning the former governor’s medical visit.

According to the anti-graft agency, the Kaduna State High Court had fixed July 6, 7 and 8, 2026, for the accelerated hearing of criminal charges against El-Rufai. However, the former governor reportedly failed to appear in court on the first day after insisting on being examined by his personal doctor before leaving custody.

As legal proceedings continue, Obi’s intervention has added a fresh political dimension to the controversy, reigniting national conversations about due process, human rights, judicial independence and the equal application of justice in Nigeria.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that the ongoing transformation of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) represents the broader development agenda of his administration across Nigeria, describing infrastructure as the engine that drives economic growth, investment and national prosperity.

The President made the remarks on Wednesday during the commissioning of the newly completed Collector Road C01 and its accompanying bridge in Abuja’s Institution and Research District. He was represented at the ceremony by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Addressing guests, Tinubu said the modernization of Abuja serves as a model for what his administration intends to achieve nationwide through strategic investments in roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure.

According to him, the construction of modern transport infrastructure is essential for unlocking economic opportunities, attracting investors and improving the quality of life for citizens.

“When you build roads, you open up districts. When you open up districts, you invite investment. And when investment comes, Nigeria grows,” the President stated.

He emphasized that his administration remains committed to extending similar development to cities, satellite towns and rural communities across the country, insisting that every Nigerian deserves the dividends of good governance.

Describing the project as a fulfillment of the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda, Tinubu said the road is more than a transportation facility, calling it a tangible demonstration of government’s commitment to delivering on its promises.

“We are not just looking at a physical road; we are looking at a promise kept,” he said.

The President recalled that the project was initiated after concerns were raised by the Body of Benchers during the 2025 Nigerian Law School Call to Bar ceremony over persistent traffic congestion and poor access roads leading to the institution.

He explained that his administration responded swiftly by approving the project under emergency procurement, stressing that students, legal practitioners and residents should not have to contend with poor infrastructure while pursuing education and professional development.

Tinubu noted that the project had already generated hundreds of direct and indirect jobs during construction while also improving mobility, safety and accessibility within the district.

He further commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for delivering the project within record time, describing him as a leader who remains committed to completing every assignment entrusted to him.

Speaking at the event, Wike thanked President Tinubu for his continued support and for providing the resources needed to execute major infrastructure projects across the FCT.

He assured residents that every district within the nation’s capital would continue to benefit from the administration’s development agenda.

The minister also expressed appreciation to the President for removing the Federal Capital Territory Administration from the Treasury Single Account (TSA), a move he said has significantly improved project financing and execution.

Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, also praised President Tinubu for what she described as unprecedented support for the territory, noting that the administration’s intervention has accelerated infrastructure delivery across Abuja.

She pledged the continued cooperation of residents in protecting public facilities and supporting government programmes.

Meanwhile, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, explained that the newly commissioned Collector Road C01 is a strategic infrastructure project designed to improve access to research institutions, educational facilities and surrounding communities.

He disclosed that the project includes a modern bridge, underground drainage network, solar-powered street lighting and other supporting infrastructure, providing an alternative transport route in line with the Abuja Master Plan.

The commissioning forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing infrastructure drive aimed at improving connectivity, stimulating economic activities and accelerating urban development under the Renewed Hope agenda.