The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved contracts worth N2.18 billion to enhance development and operations across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Among the approvals is a N242.8 million allocation for the procurement of a Microsoft 365 license for the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS). The announcement was made by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike after presiding over the Federal Capital Territory Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting in Abuja. The minister emphasized that these investments are part of ongoing efforts to modernize operations and improve efficiency in the nation’s capital. Speaking on the Microsoft license, Mr. Michael Ango, Acting Executive Chairman of FCT-IRS, highlighted its importance in digitizing the agency’s processes. “The license will help us transition from manual to automated processes, improve communication within our offices, and enhance record-keeping by leveraging cloud storage,” Ango stated. He added that this move aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to invest in technology for better revenue generation and service delivery. The adoption of Microsoft 365 is expected to reduce reliance on paper-based systems, streamline internal workflows, and support more efficient tax administration. Ango expressed confidence that these upgrades would ultimately boost revenue collection for the FCT and contribute to its overall development. This approval is one of several recent initiatives by the FCTA aimed at improving infrastructure and services in Abuja. Earlier this week, the administration announced a separate N1.94 billion contract for earth-moving equipment to strengthen urban management under the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC).

Abel Aboh, a Nigerian-born expert in data and artificial intelligence (AI), has been named as a panel judge for the prestigious British Data Awards 2025. This annual event celebrates excellence in data, AI, analytics, and technology across the United Kingdom, attracting entries from leading organizations in various sectors. Aboh will play a key role in evaluating over 70 submissions across five major categories, focusing on criteria such as innovation, impact, teamwork, and value creation. The British Data Awards are known for their diversity of participants, drawing more than 400 entries annually from start-ups, not-for-profits, public sector organizations, SMEs, tech unicorns, and FTSE 100 companies. Joining a Panel of Industry LeadersAboh joins a distinguished panel of judges that includes: Di Mayze – Chief Data & AI Officer, Marks & Spencer Lucy Vickers – Chief Data Officer, UK Department of Health & Social Care Miryem Salah – Chief Data Officer, Vodafone Caroline Carruthers – CEO, Carruthers & Jackson Nick Sawyer – Global Data Officer, Dr. Martens The judging panel represents diverse industries such as finance, healthcare, defense, retail, and technology—highlighting the broad influence of data and AI in modern business and governance. With nearly two decades of experience in data governance and technology transformation, Abel Aboh has worked with prominent organizations such as the Bank of England, EasyJet, HSBC, Standard Life Aberdeen, BAE Systems, and London 2012. His expertise in data strategy has established him as a thought leader in shaping AI policies and frameworks. Aboh’s achievements include: Induction into the UK Data Hall of Fame. Recognition from Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023 for his contributions to the global data landscape. Being a finalist for the British Data Awards’ “Data Leader of the Year” in 2021. Beyond his professional accolades, Aboh is committed to mentorship and education. He serves as a board member of The Data Lab Scotland, a committee member of the Law Society of Scotland, and an advisor to DataKirk, a social enterprise promoting diversity in data and AI fields. Now in its fifth year, the British Data Awards continue to spotlight outstanding achievements in data across various sectors. Aboh’s appointment underscores his influence in the global data space and highlights the growing importance of expertise in data-driven decision-making.

The Lagos State Government has announced the closure of the PWD rail crossing to vehicular traffic, effective Thursday, May 1, 2025. This measure is aimed at enhancing commuter safety following the launch of the Red Line Train Service. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, explained that the decision was prompted by a recent survey conducted by the Ministry of Transportation. The survey highlighted the need for proactive steps to prevent accidents along the PWD corridor, which has seen frequent collisions between trains and vehicles in recent years. “In line with this, the Lagos State Government has announced the closure of the rail crossing at the PWD axis to vehicular traffic, effective from Thursday, May 1,” Osiyemi stated. “Motorists are advised to use alternative routes via Ikeja or Airport roads to reach their destinations.” To minimize inconvenience for road users, officers from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will be deployed to manage vehicular movement in the affected areas. The closure comes as part of broader efforts to ensure safety and security along the Red Line corridor. The Red Line Train Service, which began operations in October 2024 after its inauguration earlier that year, has been a key infrastructure project for Lagos State. Motorists and commuters are encouraged to plan their routes ahead of time and cooperate with traffic officials during this transition.