Paragraph 1: A Gathering of Power: The 25th Federal Executive Council Meeting
On Wednesday, the halls of the State House in Abuja resonated with the weight of national affairs as President Bola Tinubu convened the 25th Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting of his administration. This marked the fourth such gathering in 2025, signifying the ongoing commitment of the government to address the multitude of challenges and opportunities facing the nation. The meeting, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic process, serves as a platform for key decision-makers to deliberate, formulate, and approve policies that shape the trajectory of the country’s development. Presided over by the President himself, the meeting underscored the importance of collaborative governance and the collective responsibility borne by the council members.
Paragraph 2: Honoring Past Pillars of Nigerian Governance
Before delving into the weighty matters of state, the FEC paused to pay tribute to two distinguished figures who had significantly contributed to Nigeria’s political landscape. Led by Dr. Emanso Okop, Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Affairs Office, representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the council observed a minute of silence in honor of Chief Edwin Clark and Mrs. Adenike Oyagbola. Chief Clark, a prominent voice in Nigerian politics, passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97. His tenure as Federal Commissioner for Information under General Murtala Mohammed marked a significant period in Nigeria’s history. Mrs. Oyagbola, a trailblazer in her own right, made history as Nigeria’s first female minister, serving as Minister of National Planning from 1979 to 1983. Her passing on February 28, 2025, at the age of 93, marked the loss of a true pioneer.
Paragraph 3: Advancing Education: Approving New Private Universities
The FEC meeting addressed a wide range of critical issues, including the expansion of educational opportunities within the country. Recognizing the vital role of education in national development, the council approved the licensing of 11 new private universities. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a robust and diverse educational landscape, providing more avenues for Nigerian citizens to pursue higher learning. The expansion of private universities is expected to contribute to increased access to education, promote healthy competition within the sector, and ultimately enhance the human capital of the nation.
Paragraph 4: Combating Illegal Mining: Investing in Satellite Surveillance
Another key area of focus during the FEC meeting was the issue of illegal mining, a pervasive problem that has plagued Nigeria for years. Recognizing the environmental and economic damage caused by this illicit activity, the council approved a substantial investment of 2.5 billion naira for a sophisticated satellite surveillance system. This technological advancement will provide the government with unprecedented capabilities to monitor mining activities across the country, identify illegal operations, and enforce regulations more effectively. The implementation of this system is expected to curb illegal mining, protect natural resources, and generate much-needed revenue for the government.
Paragraph 5: Infrastructure Development: Dualizing the Oyo-Ogbomoso Road
Infrastructure development also took center stage during the FEC deliberations, with the council approving a significant allocation of 734 billion naira for the dualization of the Oyo-Ogbomoso Road in Oyo State. This crucial infrastructure project aims to improve transportation networks, enhance connectivity between communities, and boost economic activities in the region. The upgraded road will facilitate the movement of goods and people, reduce travel time, and contribute to the overall development of the state. This investment reflects the government’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure gaps and fostering economic growth across the nation.
Paragraph 6: The Continuing Work of Governance
The 25th FEC meeting under President Tinubu’s leadership represents a continuation of the ongoing efforts to address the diverse challenges and opportunities that confront Nigeria. The decisions taken during this meeting, from education and security to infrastructure development, reflect the government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens and building a stronger, more prosperous nation. As the administration continues its work, the FEC remains a vital platform for collaborative decision-making, ensuring that the voices and needs of the Nigerian people are heard and addressed. The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, reaffirming the commitment of the government to fulfilling its mandate and serving the nation.
