FG shuts down Abuja schools for WEF

All schools and government offices in the Federal Capital Territory will be shut down for the World Economic Forum summit holding in Abuja from Wednesday to Friday next week.

Private offices were also advised to shut down in a statement signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim.

The statement reads in full: “This is to inform the general public that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, has approved, as part of arrangements for the successful hosting of the World Economic Forum Africa, that all Government Offices and Schools in the Federal Capital Territory, expect those on essential services, are to be closed from Wednesday, 7th to Friday, 9th May, 2014.

“Private Organisations with large number of staff may also wish to close down.

“This is to ease the flow of traffic within the city and enable participants carry out their assigned roles and participate actively at the World Economic Forum Africa.”

The fear of a terror attack is believed to be behind the decision, although Anyim attributed it to a need for free flow of traffic.

The meetings are usually held at fixed venues either at or close to the hotels where the participants are lodged.

Most participants will stay at Transcorp Hilton Hotel and Sheraton Hotel, where a majority of the meetings will be held.

Recent terror attacks in Nyanya have led to over 100 deaths and 200 injuries.

The government has always sought to assure delegates and participants that the country was secure for them to hold the prestigious event.

About 10 heads of state and 900 delegates have registered to participate in the summit.

The participants are coming from 70 countries, including 30 African countries.

The forum has “Forging Inclusive Growth, Creating Jobs” as its theme.