Martin Odiete

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has given a pass mark on the conduct of Saturday’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election.

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration(FCTA), Mr. Olusade Adesola has charged the management and staff of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board(AEPB) to step up their efforts with a view to ensuring remarkable improvement in the sanitary and environmental conditions of the nation’s capital city, Abuja.

The Minister also called for the active and peaceful participation of the resident in the election.

In a message to FCT residents on the upcoming elections, Malam Bello said that since the return to democracy in 1999, the FCT Area Council elections have held unfailingly every three years leading to the entrenchment of an enduring democratic culture where the wishes of the people have prevailed.

He called on them to maintain this enviable tradition by abiding by all extant rules and regulations guiding the polls in a peaceful manner.

According to the Minister, conducting a smooth election is not the responsibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission alone, but also those of the electorate working in tandem with all stakeholders, including security agencies, civil society groups, the mass media with community and religious leaders and organisations.

Malam Bello added that the smooth transition of power through the active participation of the electorate do not only deepen national democratic values but also ensure credible and accountable governance that will truly serve the people.

The Minister also reminded residents that the FCT is a symbol of Nigeria’s unity where every citizen has an equal stake in its affairs and called on all contestants and political parties to commit themselves to peace before, during and after the elections because, according to him, “after the election, we must all return back to being brothers and sisters bound by the love for country and the desire to see her grow.

“I therefore call on residents and contestants to use the Council polls to truly demonstrate the unity of all Nigerians, regardless of ethnic, religious or political affiliations” the Minister added.

Malam Bello also reminded residents that the attention of the national and international community is focused on the FCT Area Council elections

The electorate in the FCT, therefore bear a burden of responsibility of ensuring a peaceful and transparent conduct of the elections he added.

He therefore advised residents not to hesitate to call on the relevant authorities if they witness any activities that run contrary to the laid down election guidelines.

He thereafter wished the contestants the best of luck in the polls.

The Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Nura Sani Kangiwa has reiterated the commitment of the Institute in partnering with institutions across the country for training and capacity development of professional practices in the Travel-Tourism and Hospitality sector of the country.