Jonathan Directs that Schools, Offices of FCT Be Closed May 7-9 During World Economic Forum

All government offices and schools within the Federal Capital Territory will be closed from May 7 till May 9 as part of arrangements for hosting the World Economic Forum on Africa.

President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the measures, making exception only foк institutions on essential services. He also recommended large private organizations to follow suit,

The directive was contained in the statement by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim, and is aimed at ensuring free flow of traffic in the centre of Abuja, as well as enabling the participants to carry out their assigned roles in the WEC agenda.

Nigeria will become the first West African country to host the event. The theme for the 24th edition of the forum is Forging Inclusive Growth, Creating Jobs. It will attract participants from over 80 countries, including heads of governments and statesmen, CEOs of global firms, leading financiers, policy and development technocrats.

Security concerns 

Some observers, however, suggested that the development follows recent devastating activity by insurgents in the very heart of Nigeria, its capital. It will be recalled that at about 8 p.m. a suicide bomber 

Speaking in the wake of yesterday's bombing in Nyanya, Abuja's suburb, Finance Minister Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, was quik to assure that the FG would provide adequate security for participants.

Mr. Eze Onyekpere, an economist, and Catholic Bishop of Sokoto State, Most Rev. Mathew Kukah, both agreed that the FG should not cancel the event despite recent tragic events. This would demonstrate Nigeria's will to conquer terrorism and show that there are people in charge of the security situation in the country.

Source: Legit.ng