Sen. Ned Nwoko (PDP-Delta) says that Local Government Administration is central to democracy in Nigeria as it ensures grassroots governance and service delivery at the local level.

This is contained in a statement signed by Dr Michael Nwoko, the Chief of Staff to the lawmaker in Abuja on Monday.

Nwoko said this on the occasion of the presentation of an award “Icon of Hope” to him by the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC).

He was represented by his Chief of Staff.

He said that the importance of local government administration in the country could not be overemphasised, as it was the bedrock of democracy.

According to him, local governments in Nigeria play key roles in the country’s democracy by promoting participatory democracy, providing services, and representing citizens.

“Local Governments help determine local needs and how to meet them. They also act as a link between the centre, state, and local people.

“They are created to decentralise power and bring the government closer to the people. They perform both mandatory and concurrent functions.

“It is in view of this that I took it upon myself to enhance the viability of local governments through the Paris and London club loan refunds, “he said.

Dr Folashade Olabanji-Oba, ALGOVC National Chairman, while presenting the award at its 7th Annual National Conference, said the award was in recognition of the lawmaker’s significant contributions to strengthening local government administration.

She highlighted Nwoko’s critical role in ensuring the Paris and London Club loan refunds, a financial breakthrough she said enhanced the capacity of local governments nationwide.

The Dr. Yusuf John-Suberu Foundation has commended the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his transformative initiatives that have significantly improved the security, infrastructure and overall quality of life in Abuja.

The Executive Director of the Foundation, Dr Yusuf Suberu, gave the commendation while hosting newsmen at a dinner on Wednesday in Abuja.

Suberu described Wike as a key strength and a significant contributor to the success of President Bola Tinubu’s government.

He said that Wike had received nationwide acclaim from Nigerians for his diligence and commitment to duty.

This, he said, led to the successful completion of multiple road projects in the FCT, among other achievements, within his first year as Minister.

According to Suberu, Wike has engineered a transformative turnaround in the FCT’s infrastructure, with widespread road construction and rehabilitation projects underway in virtually every district.

“The massive infrastructural development in the FCT includes several key projects, such as the construction of new parks, relocation of business premises to more suitable areas.

“Another one is the highly anticipated launch of the Abuja light train services, which is expected to revolutionise transportation in the city.

“Thanks to the unwavering determination of the Wike, the former Rivers governor and current FCT Minister, Abuja is transforming from a hotspot for criminal activities into a secure and safe haven.

“Wike’s leadership has been instrumental in driving this positive change, making the nation’s capital a safer place for residents and visitors alike, “he maintained.

He praised President Tinubu for putting competence above politics when he appointed Wike to lead the FCT ministry, recognising Wike’s ability to drive meaningful change.

“The decision has proven to be beneficial for Nigeria, and we are delighted with the outcome.

“Wike has successfully restored our confidence in the nation’s capital, and his outstanding efforts are truly praiseworthy.

“We take immense pride in Wike’s achievements and extend our heartfelt appreciation to the President for having faith in him and entrusting him with the Ministerial position,” he said.

Suberu pledged to align his organisation’s goals with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, aiming to drive Nigeria transformation forward.

“We stand firmly behind President Tinubu’s administration and his commitment to addressing Nigeria’s longstanding challenges, many of which have been carried over from previous governments.

The Borno government has approved over N730 million for payment of scholarships to 26,888 indigent students.

Mr Lawal Wakilbe, the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, said this during the presentation of cheque to the National Union of Borno State Students (NUBOSS), on Tuesday in Maiduguri.

He said the state government had allocated over N8 billion in 2024 fiscal year, for bursary payment to local and international students.

Wakilbe enjoined the students to submit accurate bank account details to avoid delays in payments, warning that unclaimed funds would be reallocated.

While urging the students to avail themselves opportunities of the Federal Government’s student loan scheme, Wakilbe urged them to dedicate themselves to studies to achieve academic excellence.

Also speaking, Abdullahi Umara, National President, NUBOSS, lauded the gesture, adding that it underscored Gov. Babagana Zulum’s commitment to youths and education development