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Tag: Mariya Mahmoud

  • Youth population backbone of APC – minister

    Youth population backbone of APC – minister

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has observed that the energy, ideas, and mobilization efforts of the youth population have continued to serve as the backbone of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The Minister said this while addressing vibrant youth leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) North West Zone at the “Meet and Greet” for Asiwaju/Shettima event, held at Ladi Kwali Hall, African Continental Hotel, Abuja.

    Mahmoud commended the Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) and APC youth leadership for organizing the gathering, which she described as a vital platform for strengthening party unity, engagement, and resolve.

    She extended appreciation to the youths for their steadfast loyalty to the APC and the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

    According to the Special Adviser Media to the FCT Minister of State, Austine Elemue, the minister on Wednesday said, “Your energy, ideas, and mobilization efforts continue to serve as the backbone of our party’s success and the sustenance of our democratic ideals”.

    Mahmoud reaffirmed the North West Zone’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s political evolution and the APC’s triumphs, urging youth leaders to promote issue-based engagement, peaceful mobilization, and constructive dialogue.

    Read Also: APC e-registration sparks friendly rivalry across Enugu wards

    The Minister congratulated the organizers and participants, expressing confidence that the event would deepen APC unity and energize the youth base in support of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima.

    In his remarks, the Minister of State for Works, Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, who served as the Director, 2023 Youth Mobilization North-West affirmed that the gathering was organized to bring together APC youth leaders from the North-West Zone whom have contributed immensely to the success of the 2023 election victory, while also recognizing their various contributions to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    He further stated that the gathering would re-energize young people for continued support for the current administration.

    Goronyo called for their valued contributions that would further inspire the teeming youths to support the President to achieve his campaign promises to the zone in particular and the nation at large.

    The high point of the event was the presentation of meritorious awards to deserving APC youth leaders from the zone.

  • Minister unveils measures to stop pilgrims from absconding in Jordan, Israel

    Minister unveils measures to stop pilgrims from absconding in Jordan, Israel

      …we shall arrest, prosecute guarantors – Pilgrims board

    The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has announced new measures to prevent pilgrims from absconding during trips to Jordan and Israel.

    Speaking at the pre-departure orientation for 142 intending Christian pilgrims, Mahmoud urged them to be good ambassadors of both the FCT and Nigeria.

    She encouraged the pilgrims to uphold dignity, portray the country positively, and use the holy journey to pray for President Bola Tinubu and members of the Renewed Hope Agenda team for effective governance and delivery of democratic benefits.

    Mahmoud said, “The occasion of this pre-departure orientation program is a demonstration of the government’s commitment to the spiritual well-being of the people.

    She said, “For some of you who might be contemplating absconding or indulging in any acts that are inimical to the name of our dear country, you should have a rethink because this will not be accepted at any rate. The Federal Government of Nigeria has put in effective proactive machinery to counter such efforts. I sincerely hope that this pilgrimage will provide you with unique and rewarding encounters as we await your safe return home”.

    Meanwhile, the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has said that while it doesn’t envisage any case of abscondment, individuals who make such an attempt would put their guarantors in jeopardy.

    The Acting Director of the Board, Gloria Dandam, said for many years, FCT has achieved a great feat by not recording any abscondment of Pilgrims, but should there be any case, guarantors of those who absconded would be arrested and prosecuted.

    She said, “Right now, in FCT alone, we have 142 pilgrims who have paid to take off, but we have other states joining us. Your guarantors were made to fill out the forms so that if you don’t come back, we’ll know who to hold.

    “If you don’t come back, we hold the person to ransom, we can take him to court, and charge him, because he has signed for somebody who absconded.”

  • Minister calls for more investment in agricultural education

    Minister calls for more investment in agricultural education

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has called for increased investment in agricultural education that effectively blends theoretical knowledge with practical enterprise, alongside improved access to financing and tools for young entrepreneurs.

    Mahmoud also advocated for the establishment of innovation hubs where young people could collaborate on sustainable solutions to modern agricultural challenges.

    Delivering her message at the Students for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship (SAGE) Nigeria 2025 National School Entrepreneurship and Awards in Abuja, the Minister urged educators, mentors, policymakers, and stakeholders to move beyond applause and translate their support into tangible actions that advance youth-led innovation.

    The minister, who was represented by her Special Assistant on Technical Matters, Michael Bawa, emphasized that Nigerian youths are not just leaders of tomorrow but innovators of today.

    She noted that their creativity and technological ingenuity hold the key to transforming agribusiness and securing Nigeria’s food future.

    Speaking on the theme, “Harnessing Youth Innovation for Sustainable Agribusinesses and Food Security,” the Minister stressed the urgent need to empower youth-driven agripreneurship as a core solution to the country’s evolving agricultural challenges.

    She commended SAGE Nigeria for its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial ambition, noting its remarkable feat of winning the SAGE World Cup eight times in the last 12 years.

    According to a statement issued on Thursday by her Special Adviser, Media, Austine Elemue, the minister said; “this success underscores the exceptional potential of Nigerian youth on the global stage.”

    The minister observed that Nigeria’s development is being shaped by complex forces, including rapid population growth, climate change, rural unemployment, and food insecurity. 

    However, she maintained that the country is uniquely positioned to overcome these challenges through the innovative energy of its young people.

    Highlighting the transformative power of modern agriculture, Mahmoud pointed to the growing role of technologies such as drones, mobile apps, blockchain, and artificial intelligence in revolutionizing farming practices—turning agriculture into a sector of opportunity, not of last resort.

    She described the young entrepreneurs present as “architects of Nigeria’s future,” capable of turning scarcity into abundance and dependency into sustainability.

    Mahmoud called on all stakeholders to believe in the power of youth innovation and to commit to building a country where no Nigerian goes hungry and every young mind finds opportunity in agriculture.

    Earlier in his remarks, the National Chairman of SAGE Nigeria, Mr. Agwu Amogu, described the programme as a national celebration of young minds shaping the future through creativity, innovation, and enterprise.

    Read Also: Falling agricultural education raises fear over food security

    He applauded the bold teen entrepreneurs who, rather than succumbing to apathy, have chosen action and view the challenges around them not as obstacles, but as opportunities for meaningful impact.

    While expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment and innovation, Amogu called on subnational governments and other stakeholders to adopt hands-on entrepreneurship education as a national development strategy.

    “Mr. President, your leadership offers hope to millions of young Nigerians. Let us work together to scale SAGE to every secondary school in Nigeria,” he stated.

    SAGE was founded in 2002 at California State University, Chico, USA. Since its launch in Nigeria in 2006, it has become one of the most effective platforms for youth empowerment, educational transformation, and community development.

    The programme is now active in over 32 countries, with Nigeria standing out among the top-performing nations.

  • Minister hails female journalists’ role in curbing insecurity

    Minister hails female journalists’ role in curbing insecurity

    The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, on Thursday described female journalists as critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s battle against insecurity.

    Highlighting the unique role of women journalists, Mahmoud noted that their work extends beyond reporting.

    Mahmoud said this at the inaugural zonal conference of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D (North Central), held in Abuja, just as she applauded the historic nature of the gathering.

    “This conference marks a significant milestone—not just in the advancement of female journalists, but in the broader push for inclusive, ethical, and impactful journalism in our country,” she said.

    While commending the conference, theme: “Curbing Insecurity: The Role of Female Journalists in National Security,” Mahmoud stressed that the conference came at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with multifaceted security challenges including terrorism, banditry, cyber threats, and misinformation.

    “As women, professionals, and storytellers, you hold a unique position in shaping narratives, amplifying the voices of the vulnerable, and fostering national unity. You are often the voice for the voiceless and a beacon of hope in communities affected by violence,” she emphasised.

    She also addressed the challenges female journalists face, ranging from safety risks and gender-based harassment to limited representation in decision-making platforms.

     “Let this conference be a rallying call to address those challenges through policy reforms, training, advocacy, and a united front,” she urged.

    On the efforts by the FCT Administration, she outlined several strategic initiatives by the FCT Administration, under the leadership of Nyesom Wike, to combat insecurity.

    According to a statement issued by the Special Assistant Media to the FCT Minister of State, Austine Elemu, these include improved collaboration among security agencies, increased investment in surveillance technology, enhanced intelligence-sharing, and the establishment of joint task force operations for rapid threat response.

    She cited infrastructural improvements such as the installation of street lights, road rehabilitation, and urban renewal projects as part of a broader strategy to eliminate criminal hideouts and improve patrol access.

    Earlier, the zonal vice president, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, zone D, Mrs. Chizoba Ogbeche noted that the role of female journalists in national security in Nigeria is significant, multifaceted, and evolving.

    Read Also: Cash transfer: FG supports 6 million Nigerians in 6 months – Minister 

    She emphasised that the North-Central comprising Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, and the FCT, has serious security challenges, and it brings to the fore what role the female journalists could play in mitigating the situation and contributing to de-escalating the troubled situation.

    Ogbeche further noted that female journalists have played a crucial role in uncovering and reporting on Boko Haram insurgency, banditry and kidnappings, military and police human rights abuses, amongst other social vices.

    According to her, “Their storytelling brings balance and diversity to security coverage, ensuring more inclusive national conversations.”

    Ogbeche, therefore, called for collaboration with CSOs and academia and fostering partnerships to improve reporting depth and accuracy.

    The conference drew delegates from across the North Central zone and served as a platform for engagement on the intersection of media, gender, and national security.

  • Minister pushes for more investments in primary healthcare

    Minister pushes for more investments in primary healthcare

    As the world celebrates 2025 World Family Doctors Day, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has called on governments at all levels for increased investments in primary healthcare across Nigeria.

    Speaking at the event organised by the Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria, FCT/Keffi chapter held in Abuja, Mahmoud emphasised the critical need to strengthen primary care systems to address the growing health challenges faced by communities.

    Highlighting the theme for this year’s celebration; “Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World,” Mahmoud underscored the essential role family doctors play in supporting mental health and fostering resilience amidst global adversities such as climate change, social instability, and economic uncertainty. 

    She described family doctors as frontline caregivers uniquely positioned to deliver continuous, person-centered care that promotes early intervention and holistic support.

    According to her, “Family doctors are the backbone of our healthcare system, providing comprehensive care that nurtures mental wellness and builds resilience in individuals and communities.”

    She, however, praised their enduring relationships with patients as vital for proactively managing mental health issues and chronic diseases.

    Addressing the complex health landscape marked by pandemics, chronic illnesses, and mental health crises, Mahmoud reiterated that robust, accessible primary healthcare is more important than ever.

    She also canvassed for training, recruitment, and retention of family physicians-especially in underserved and hard-to-reach regions.

    Read Also: Tuggar to attend third AU-EU ministerial meeting in Brussels

    According to a statement issued on Monday by her Special Assistant, Media, Austine Elemue, the minister stressed the importance of recognizing and valuing family medicine within health policy and practice frameworks to ensure sustainable health outcomes.

    She hailed family doctors as unsung heroes working tirelessly in clinics, rural health posts, urban centres, and conflict zones to deliver equitable healthcare.

    While welcoming participants, the chairperson of Society of Family Physicians, FCT-Keffi chapter, Blessing Chukwukelu, stated that Nigeria faces unique challenges, including limited access to mental health services, stigma, and shortage of mental health professionals.

    She observed that in view of these challenges, family doctors could bridge the gaps by conducting initial mental health screenings, raising awareness, and providing basic psychological support.

    Chukwukelu further noted that integrating mental health services into primary care is crucial, and family doctors could play a vital role in promoting mental wellness.

    She said, “As we gather here today, let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles of family medicine.”

    Recall that the date, May 19th, was chosen to align with the founding of WONCA in 1972, a landmark event that sought to unite and empower family medicine practitioners on a global scale.

  • Minister inaugurates 2025 FCT hajj ministerial committee

    Minister inaugurates 2025 FCT hajj ministerial committee

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has tasked FCT hajj ministerial committee members to be dedicated and committed to ensuring the welfare and successful participation of FCT pilgrims.

    The Minister gave the advice while inaugurating the seven-man FCT 2025 Hajj Ministerial Committee in her office, chaired by the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Minister of State on Administration and Strategic, Abdullahi Kauranmata.

    She reminded the committee members that the Hajj pilgrimage is one of the most significant spiritual journeys for Muslims, and it is the duty of the committee to ensure that every intending pilgrim from the Federal Capital Territory embarks on this sacred journey with the highest standards of care, dignity, and efficiency.

    The Minister, who expressed confidence in the ability of committee members, stated that, “This year, we are guided by three key pillars: efficiency, transparency, and safety.”

    Mahmoud said, “Every committee member has a role to play in upholding transparency and professionalism in all aspects while in the Holy Land,” and she urged the committee to proactively address issues from past experiences.

    Read Also: 2025 Hajj: Lagos airlifts 1,062 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia 

    According to a statement issued on Thursday by her Special Assistant Media, Austine Elemue, the Minister added that the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the committee include, but are not limited to, the general supervision and coordination of all FCT Hajj activities from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia until the return of the last flight back to Nigeria; providing advice and guidance during the course of the operation; ensuring that the welfare of the FCT pilgrims is given premium importance throughout the exercise; and ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrims.

    Other responsibilities include ensuring adherence to all rules governing the 2025 Hajj operations; ensuring compliance with all new policies and programmes introduced by the Saudi authorities for the 2025 Hajj; and submitting a report to the Minister of State FCT with recommendations, among others.

    Responding on behalf of members, the chairman of the committee, Dr. Abdullahi Kauranmata, described the trust placed in them as sacred.

    He stressed that the committee is not just planning a trip but facilitating a profound religious obligation for thousands of FCT residents.

    He, however, called on the FCT Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board to see the committee’s work as complementary, and he called for open dialogue, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence.

    Kauranmata assured the Minister that the committee would make the FCT contingent a model for Hajj operations in Nigeria.

    Other members of the committee include Muhammad Haruna Aris, Director of Funds FCT; Danlami Ibrahim, Deputy Director Audit; HRH Awwal Musa Ijkoro, representing the traditional institution; Mal. Mudan Umar Bebeji, representing the Ulamas; Hajiya Jamila Aliko Maishanu, representing the community; and Na’Allah Ado, Assistant Director, FCT Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board, who served as secretary of the committee.

  • Council election: APC more focus to win entire FCT – Minister

    Council election: APC more focus to win entire FCT – Minister

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has declared that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the nation’s capital is more focused and determined to win the six area councils in the forthcoming area council elections and the general elections.

    Mahmoud, who spoke on Thursday at a crucial stakeholder meeting of the APC in FCT, also stressed that members have identified the problems of the party and are ready to confront the challenges head-on.

    She reiterated that the selfish interest of some identified individuals should not override the collective interest of the party.

    According to her: “I can see that APC in FCT is taking shape and becoming more focused on the way forward. 

    Read Also: APC NEC passes vote of confidence on Tinubu, Ganduje, PGF

    “We have identified where our problems lie, and we are more united to overcome them. The result of our unity will manifest more in the area council elections and the general election come 2027”. 

    The minister affirmed that the creation of Youth and Women Secretariat by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a deliberate and strategic attempt to carry the youth and women along in the FCT.

    She emphasised that the large crowd of party faithful was a testament to the unwavering commitment to the growth, unity, and success of APC and the progress of FCT and the nation.

    Also, speaking at the stakeholders meeting, FCT Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Abdulmalik Usman commended stakeholders for their tireless efforts in ensuring that the party remained united.

    He said: “I have said it before that the dedication of all members has continued to solidify APC’s position as the ruling party and the preferred choice of the people.

    “Today, our collective resolve is key to sustaining the dominance of APC as the ruling party. We will continue to deliver dividends of democracy to our people and build a stronger, more prosperous nation.”

  • Abuja explosion: Minister assures FCT residents of security

    Abuja explosion: Minister assures FCT residents of security

    …visits scene of incident with security operatives

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has assured residents of the territory that the authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

    The minister gave this assurance when she visited the scene of the bomb explosion that occurred on Monday in the Kuchikuyi community within the Bwari Area Council of the FCT.

    Mahmoud also called on residents to remain vigilant and not give in to fear, stressing that they should cooperate with security agencies and support one another as a community.

    She said: “We understand the fear and concern that recent events may have caused. Please know that the authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

    “Investigations are underway, and heightened security measures have been implemented to prevent any further incidents.

    “During this time, let us remain vigilant but not succumb to fear. Stay informed through verified sources, cooperate with security agencies, and support one another as a community.

    “Our sympathies go to those affected, and we urge you to remain calm and go about your normal business.”

    Read Also: Abuja explosion not related to bombing – Police

    She further stressed the need to be security-conscious, calling on residents to “know your neighbour,” adding that such security measures could help in identifying criminals within the communities.

    It could be recalled that the FCT Police Command had linked three suspects to the bomb explosion that rocked a village in the Byazhin area of Kubwa on Monday afternoon.

    The suspects, who were killed in the explosion, were said to have visited the Kuchikuyi community in Byazhin from Katsina to see the owner of the Islamic school, Tsangagyar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School, where the incident took place.

    The command also confirmed that the explosion occurred on January 6, 2025, at approximately 11:00 AM, killing two men.

    Those who accompanied the FCT Minister of State to the scene included the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brig. Gen. A.O Onasanya, and FCT Sector Commander NSCDC, Olusola Odumosu.

    Others included the Commander of the Naval Unit Abuja, Commodore T.S Lengaya, and Chairman of Bwari Area Council, Hon. John Gabaya, along with FCT Director of Security, Mallam Adamu Gwary, among other security chiefs.

  • Minister: Pilgrimage is neither jamboree nor tourism 

    Minister: Pilgrimage is neither jamboree nor tourism 

    …as 290 FCT pilgrims depart Abuja for Jordan, Israel

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, on Thursday, urged 290 FCT pilgrims to remember that pilgrimage is neither a jamboree nor tourism, but a spiritual call to strengthen one’s faith and attain a new level of spirituality and responsibility.

    Mahmoud stated this at the occasion of the pre-departure orientation programme for the 2023/2024 main pilgrimage exercise as the FCT pilgrims departed to the holy lands of Israel and the Kingdom of Jordan.

    The Minister stressed that the occasion was aimed not only at bidding the pilgrims farewell but also at preparing their minds, mentally and psychologically, for the significance of Christian pilgrimage, as well as allaying their fears about what to expect and what not to expect while in the Holy Lands.

    Mahmoud noted that the occasion also demonstrated the government’s commitment and reassured pilgrims that the government was doing everything possible to fulfil its obligations as contained in the Board’s mandate.

    While reminding them that pilgrimage, as a religious practice, has an unquantifiable blessing, she urged them to use the opportunity to pray for the nation and its leadership at all levels for peace, progress, growth, and development.

    Read Also: New Year: Power minister calls for continued patriotism from Nigerians 

    “I believe that through our collective prayers, God will continue to lead our country to greatness. While in the Holy Lands, remember you have a responsibility,” she stressed.

    The Minister used the occasion to commend the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) under the leadership of Bishop Stephen Adegbite for his giant strides in coordinating Christian pilgrimage nationwide over the years.

    Mahmoud, however, assured that the FCT Administration is committed to sustaining the mutual relationship between itself and the Commission, and the Administration would continue to support the activities of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board as a tool for spiritual transformation and the well-being of residents.

    In her welcome remarks, the Director of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Gloria Dandam, said the pilgrimage was not only to take pilgrims to holy sites but also to strengthen one’s relationship with God and bring pilgrims closer to the eternal message of peace, love, and hope.

    She assured that experts from various areas have been carefully selected to equip pilgrims with the essential tips that would help them while performing the sacred journey.

    She, however, thanked the FCT Administration under the able leadership of Barrister Nyeson Wike and Dr. Mariya Mahmoud for their continued support for the Board’s activities.

  • Minister hails First Lady’s Renewed Hope programme impactful service

    Minister hails First Lady’s Renewed Hope programme impactful service

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has commended the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for its impactful service to the elderly in society.

    The minister made this commendation on Tuesday at the second edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme, held in Abuja.

    Mahmoud emphasised that the initiative was not just to distribute items but to express the deepest gratitude and respect for the wealth of wisdom and experience that the elders bring to the society.

    She said: “In the fast-paced world we live in, it is essential to pause and appreciate the pillars of our community—the elderly. Their stories, guidance, and enduring spirits have shaped our collective journey. 

    “A simple gift can bring a smile, warmth, and a sense of belonging to those who may feel overlooked or lonely especially during this time of the year.

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    “I understand that the mission of the Renewed Hope Initiative is not just about distributing material items; it is about fostering a sense of community, compassion, and respect for our elders, youths, girl child and widows.”

    She, therefore, commended this year’s theme: “Total Wellness; Happiness, Healthy and Prosperous Lifestyle”, stressing that it is not just apt but a commitment to ensuring the comfort and well-being of those who have paved the way for us.

    Mahmoud used the occasion to call on critical stakeholders to carry the spirit of the First Lady beyond today, by ensuring that the love and warmth shared with the elderly and the less privileged would continue to resonate throughout the year.

    In her remarks, Mandate Secretary Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamins-Olaniyi, assured that the beneficiaries would go home with the sum of N200,000 cash gift and other gift items.

    According to her: “I am certain that our beneficiaries will be leaving here happier, richer and healthier. I thank the First Lady for this kind gesture.”

    The highlight of the event was the presentation of N200,000 cash each to 250 elderly persons, 25kg bags of rice, wheelchairs, medical screenings, among other assisted devices.