By Queen Kunde
The Mandate Secretary for Area Council Services in the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Bitrus Lawrence Garki, has reaffirmed his unwavering support for private-sector initiatives aimed at driving grassroots development, particularly through tourism and community engagement.
Garki made this pledge while hosting members of the Tourism Volunteers Network (TVN), led by FCT Coordinator Dr. Charity Akpamgbo, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
He commended the network’s “impactful and selfless” social efforts, especially their focus on bringing events and humanitarian services to rural communities.
“Your activities have always been impactful. The fact that you take these events to the grassroots is a big plus. Your humanitarian services touch the less privileged who need them the most. You will always have our support,” Garki stated.
Dr. Akpamgbo said the visit was to thank the Mandate Secretary for his attendance and support at the recently concluded Area Council Investment Expo and Carnival, co-hosted by the FCT Tourism Department and private partners. She noted that the collaboration has strengthened the network’s mission to promote peace, unity, and cultural tourism through volunteerism and capacity building.
The delegation also extended an invitation to Hon. Garki to serve as Special Guest of Honour at the upcoming Children’s Day Carnival, appealing for his sponsorship to enable children from rural area councils to participate alongside their peers in the city.
The carnival—organized by the Tourism Volunteers Network in partnership with iCherry Travels & Global Concepts Ltd—is themed:
“Unity in Diversity: One Voice, One Nation – The Nigeria Dream.”
It aims to instill values of peace, unity, and cultural pride in children through activities like drama, arts, fashion parades, sports, and essay writing.
“We expect 37 schools to participate,” Dr. Akpamgbo said. “We call on the public, corporate organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to support this initiative and help put smiles on the faces of our children.”
She added that the project has also received support from the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy.
Also present was Amb. Phil Robert, Executive Director of TVN, who briefed the Mandate Secretary on upcoming regional and international tourism projects aimed at putting FCT area councils on the global map.
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