Wike Empowers Youths With 80 Vehicles

By: Wisdom Acka

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has donated 80 brand new vehicles, free of charge, to Abuja youths as part of the FCT Administration’s youth empowerment scheme.

The Minister made the donation at the flag off ceremony of the pilot scheme of the ‘FCT Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment’ in Area 11, Garki I District, Abuja, Thursday.

Wike noted that until President Bola Tinubu came to power, no past leaders thought of the welfare of women and youth in the FCT; revealing that Tinubu has created Women Affairs and Youth Development Secretariats.

He disclosed that the President has released ₦10 billion for youth empowerment and development; warning that he would not share the money to the youths but channel it into such empowerment initiatives, including reviving the FCT Youth Centre in Nyanya.

The Minister urged the youth not to be discouraged or ashamed operating the vehicles, by those who may criticize the President’s gesture, but be more concerned with legitimate businesses to feed their families.

He stressed that the vehicles would ease transportation in Guzape, Asokoro and Maitama; adding that government would determine fares at discounted rates to assist residents and visitors.

The Minister stated that unpainted and unregistered taxes would be banned in the FCT by January next year when construction of the bus/taxi terminals would be completed.

Appealing to the youths to pray for and support the President, Wike pledged that the administration would do everything possible to change the lives of the youth; vowing to “stand for equity, fairness and justice.”

In his good will message, Chairman, House Committee on FCT, Aliyu Betara, praised Wike for delivering legacy projects; saying: “After four years, Wike’s legacy will surpass all others”.

“A legacy that no other Minister will beat. As a National Assembly, we are with you because you stand for development”, he promised.

Earlier, Secretary, Youth Secretariat, FCTA, Abdullahi Ango, appreciated the Minister for the scheme; stating that Wike was a blessing to the FCT and Nigeria.

Abuja Digest reports that the 80 vehicles donated were composed of 30 SUVs, 30 mini Suzuki buses and 20 Hieace buses.