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FCT minister of state inaugurates PHC donated by Rotary Club
FCT minister of state inaugurates PHC donated by Rotary Club
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Thursday inaugurated a Primary Health Care facility donated by the Rotary Club of Abuja, Karu Housing Estate, to boost the quality of healthcare to residents.
The Minister of State, Dr Ramatu Aliyu, while inaugurating the facility at the Healthcare Centre, Jikwoyi, expressed optimism that the gesture would help to boost the quality of healthcare available to residents of the area.
The minister said that the donation marked the successes recorded in community partnership and participation as well as the collective efforts aimed at strengthening the Primary Health Care scheme in the FCT.
“The fact that Rotary Club constructed and completed this Primary Healthcare facility to support the healthcare delivery system in the territory is not a surprise to most of us because of your antecedents at the Rotary Foundation.
“Rotary Club is no doubt an upright non-governmental organisation and one that stays true to an unwavering commitment to saving lives.”
Aliyu said that FCT had benefitted immensely from the wealth of experienced, passionate and focused contributions to eradicating the wild poliovirus globally and strengthening routine immunisation programmes.
“Our partnership with you, among others has seen FCT being wild polio-free for over seven years as the last case was confirmed in the first quarter of 2013.
“You have strengthened our PHC facilities structures and system at Dutsen Garki, Piwoyi, and Sauka amongst others,” she added.
Aliyu emphasised that health was a fundamental human right, saying, “this will however require the Primary Health Care approach which allows for integrated care comprising preventive, curative and rehabilitative services extending from womb to tomb.”
“The first point of contact with the National Health System and a key to socio-economic development and progress of a country includes essential healthcare, universally accessible, acceptable, affordable, adaptable, appropriate, and active community participation.”
Aliyu, who commended the Rotary Club of Abuja, Karu Housing Estate for the gesture, assured that the FCT Administration, through its Primary Health Care Board, would take charge of the facility.
She said that the administration would provide the necessary manpower needed to improve the quality of care for residents of the area, especially women and children.
She, therefore, urged the personnel in the facility to observe Standard Operating Procedures in taking care of clients.
The minister assured that the administration would continue to strengthen the existing healthcare facilities across the six area councils to meet the high demand of its residents.
Earlier, the President of Rotary Club of Abuja, Karu Housing Estate, Mr Rvurinrin Ifidon, revealed that the club had over six years ago carried out several projects within Rotary’s seven core areas of focus.
“These include disease prevention and treatment water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy amongst others.”
She said the initial foundation of the Primary Healthcare was laid in the 80s but was abandoned during late President Shehu Shagari’s regime, stressing that through determination and focus, the club brought it to fruition.
Ifidon, however, appealed to FCT Administration and other critical stakeholders to support community projects, noting that community needs are overwhelming.
“Apart from primary healthcare, the people of Jikwoyi are in dire need of portable water. We will like to seek partnership with your office in our humble quest and desire to give our communities a phase lift.”
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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