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The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) vehemently condemns the recent volte-face by Northern Governors regarding the national tax reform bills.  After generating needless controversy and misleading the public, these governors have inexplicably capitulated to the reforms.  

The AYCF, from the outset, has maintained that these reforms, despite potential short-term challenges, are essential for Nigeria's overall development. We view the governors' actions as a betrayal of the trust placed in them, a demonstration of their incompetence in managing their states' affairs, and ultimately, a disservice to the Northern people. This press statement outlines our deep concerns and calls for accountability.

The Northern Governors initially presented a united front against the proposed tax reforms, citing concerns about their potential negative impact on the already struggling Northern economy. This stance, while arguably understandable given the region's socio-economic challenges, was fundamentally flawed. 

According to the President General of the AYCF Yerima Shettima in a statement , the arguments lacked substance and failed to acknowledge the vital role of robust taxation in funding essential public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Instead of engaging constructively with the government to address specific concerns and negotiate amendments, they chose to employ divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress. 

 This approach reveals a lack of foresight and strategic planning, highlighting their failure to effectively represent the interests of their constituents. The sudden and unexplained shift in their position, without any apparent concessions or amendments achieved, casts serious doubt on their integrity and raises questions about the motives behind their initial opposition.

"We recognize that effective taxation is the cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous nation.  While we acknowledge the need for sensitive implementation to minimize hardship, particularly amongst vulnerable populations, we firmly believe that the benefits of these reforms significantly outweigh any potential drawbacks.  Increased tax revenue will allow the government to invest heavily in critical sectors, creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all Nigerians, including those in the North. 

Shettima said, the Governors’ initial opposition, therefore, not only hampered national progress but also demonstrated a disregard for the long-term welfare of the very people they are elected to serve.  Their actions appear driven by short-sighted political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to the development of the North.

"The Northern Governors' opposition to the tax reforms cannot be divorced from their wider failures in managing their respective states.  Many Northern states grapple with persistent poverty, underdevelopment, and a lack of basic amenities.

"This chronic underperformance stems from several factors, including poor governance, corruption, and a lack of effective resource allocation.  Instead of focusing on these critical issues and finding innovative ways to improve the lives of their citizens, the governors chose to deflect attention by focusing on the tax reform debate. This suggests a deliberate attempt to shift blame for their own failures onto the federal government. 

The AYCF contends that their initial opposition was a distraction tactic, an attempt to mask their incompetence and avoid accountability for their shortcomings. The hasty reversal of their position further strengthens this argument.

"The Northern Governors' actions constitute a clear betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Northern people.  By initially opposing the tax reforms and then conceding, they have demonstrated a fundamental lack of respect for the electorate.  They engaged in misleading rhetoric, playing on public anxieties to garner support for their position, only to abandon it without explanation. 

"This manipulation undermines the democratic process and erodes public confidence in leadership. The AYCF calls upon the Northern Governors to provide a clear and transparent explanation for their change of heart.  The people deserve to know the reasons behind this abrupt shift and whether any concessions were made that would compromise the effectiveness of the tax reforms".

The AYCF reiterated its unwavering support for the national tax reform bills. We believe that these reforms are crucial for Nigeria's economic growth and development, and we condemn the Northern Governors' inconsistent and ultimately deceitful actions. Their failure to effectively manage their states and their manipulation of public opinion highlight a systemic problem of governance within the region. 

"We call for greater accountability from these governors and urge them to focus on their primary responsibilities: improving the lives of the people they represent through good governance and effective resource management. The hasty surrender to the tax reform bills without meaningful engagement or a transparent explanation constitutes a disservice to the North and a betrayal of the public's trust.  

The AYCF will continue to advocate for policies that promote sustainable development and economic progress for all Nigerians, and will remain vigilant in holding our leaders accountable for their actions, he stated

Idris vows to fire underperforming commissioners, aides

 

His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has vowed to fire Commissioners and Special Advisers who perform below the expectations of the government and their people.

 

He made the disclosure while assenting to the 2025 Budget Bill at Government House, Birnin Kebbi on Friday.

 

It could be recalled that the governor had on December 21,  presented the proposed 2025 budget to the State House of Assembly for deliberation and subsequent passage.

 

The governor warned the members of his cabinet that he would do a broadcast by the end of two years of his administration.

 

He said: "Every commissioner and special adviser must be with his people and only those who perform well and carry their people along would remain.

 

"Therefore, I urge you to adjust, tighten your belts, go close to your people, listen to their plights and assist them where necessary."

 

Speaking on the budget,  Idris said that history was made again, saying,'' last year, we were here for a similar exercise.

 

''I must commend the lawmakers for a job well done, this is a clear sign that you have Kebbi people in your hearts.

 

"I am the happiest person today, being the leader because we brought a budget that will add value to the lives of Kebbi people."

 

Idris appreciated the lawmakers for their wisdom to have kept every other thing aside and concentrated on the budget.

 

The governor assured that his administration would do everything possible to improve the lives of Kebbi people.

 

"We will make sure that we translate this budget into reality by touching lives in the grassroots so that people in the rural areas feel the impact of the government," Idris assured.

 

The governor said the present administration had transformed the state capital to make it look like any other state capital, promising that such reformation would be extended to other parts of the state.

 

He expressed delight that his administration had touched the lives of Yauri and Ngaski people.

 

He added that the state government has also commenced projects in Argungu Emirate, assuring: "By God's grace, we will make sure that we inaugurate the Zuru road project soon.

 

"We will make sure we finish the road in good time so that people of Zuru Emirate will start plying the road."

 

Idris thanked the Speaker for the cordial working relationship existing between the executive and legislative arms and urged that such relationship be sustained.

 

He confirmed that all the achievements recorded in state wouldn't have been possible without the support and subsequent approval of the house.

 

Idris said, ''It was done out of passion and love the lawmakers have for their people.''

 

Presenting the bill to the governor, the acting Speaker, Alhaji Sama'ila Muhammadu-Bagudo, said: "Today, Friday, Dec. 27, the House has passed the Bill and put it forward for your assent."

 

The acting speaker lauded the efforts of his colleagues for working round the clock to ensure the passage of the budget.

 

He recalled that the lawmakers had set aside all other engagements and concentrated on the budget with a view to passing it before the year runs out.

 

This, according to him, is with a view to ensuring that the budget takes off by January 2025 without delay. 

X-mas: Governor's Aide lauds Gov. Idris for donating foodstuff to Christian community

By Editor

The Special Adviser to Kebbi State Governor on Christian Affairs, Rev. Dr Samuel Audu Dabai (JP), has applauded His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, for supporting Christian community in the state to celebrate this year's Christmas and New Year festivities.

The SA, who spoke on phone with Journalists on Friday, expressed appreciation over the gesture, describing it as the first of its kind in the state.

"I want to assure the governor that Christian community across the 21 Local Government Areas were supplied with the food items including the widows," he said.

JP Audu Dabai explained further that a committee was set up comprising elders to ensure transparency and accountability in the sharing formula.

"This is the first time that Christian communities are enjoying this kind of benefit, this gesture has gone far, many people have benefited from it. 

"The distribution committee has done a very good job, food has reached every corner, of the state and everybody is happy," he said. 

Kebbi doles out 50 motorcycles to Govt. House workers

The Kebbi State Government has distributed motorcycles free to no fewer than 50 domestic staff in Government House to promote punctuality.

Alhaji Zayyanu Umar-Aliero, the State Commissioner for Special Duties, disclosed this while interacting with Journalists shortly after issuing keys to a set of five beneficiaries in Government House, Birnin Kebbi on Monday.

He said: "We have distributed motorcycles to some of our staff working here in government house, this is with a view to making them punctual in their duty places.

"We have distributed five today and another set of five is coming next week. So far, we have distributed over 50 motorcycles in batches to government house domestic staff.

"When you are working with a staff you need to encourage him to do more in what he is doing and we encourage them to be punctual in their duty posts."

According to him, the gesture is part of Gov. Nasir Idris' benevolence directed towards giving all manner of people a sense of belonging.

"As far as work is concerned, the governor does not segregate, whether big or small and regardless of where you come from, he touches all categories of workers, he does everything necessary that makes everybody happy," he said. 

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Reconsider Appointment of Yazid Danfulani as Executive Secretary of SMDF/PAGMI Group Tells Tinubu

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) is calling on President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the appointment of Yazid Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI). 

According to.Nan in a statement signed by it's Chairman Salihu Suleiman, "While we respect the President's decision-making process, we believe that Yazid's integrity and philanthropy make him the ideal candidate for this important role.

Yazid Shehu Danfulani is a leader who embodies the qualities of change and progress. His unwavering dedication to improving the lives of the people and his commitment to transparency and accountability have set him apart as a valuable asset to any organization. In contrast, the reinstatement of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi feels like a betrayal of the people's trust. Fatima had nearly a decade to make a difference in her previous role, yet she failed to leave a lasting impact.

Yazid Shehu Danfulani's leadership style is characterized by his proactive approach to addressing the needs of the people. He has shown a deep understanding of the challenges facing the community and has worked tirelessly to implement solutions that bring about positive change. His ability to listen to the concerns of the people and take decisive action has earned him the respect and admiration of those he serves.

Furthermore, Yazid Shehu Danfulani's commitment to transparency and accountability sets him apart as a leader who is truly dedicated to serving the best interests of the people. He has consistently demonstrated a willingness to be open and honest in his dealings, ensuring that the community is kept informed and involved in the decision-making process. 

This level of transparency fosters trust and confidence in his leadership, making him a reliable and trustworthy figure in the eyes of the people.

On the other hand, the reinstatement of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi raises questions about the integrity and effectiveness of her leadership. Despite having nearly a decade to make a difference in her previous role, Fatima failed to leave a lasting impact on the community. Her lack of tangible results and failure to address the pressing issues facing the people suggest a lack of commitment and dedication to the welfare of those she serves.

It is time for a new direction in the leadership of the SMDF/PAGMI, and Yazid Shehu Danfulani is the right person to lead the way. His vision for progress and his unwavering commitment to integrity make him the ideal candidate for this position. We believe that Yazid's leadership will bring about positive change and create a lasting legacy for the organization.

We urge President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the appointment of Yazid Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI. It is time for a fresh perspective and a new approach to leadership in this important organization. Yazid's integrity and philanthropy are unmatched, and we believe that he is the best person to lead the SMDF/PAGMI into a successful future.

AYCF Urges President Tinubu to Rethink Controversial SMDF/PAGMI Appointment

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has added their voice to the growing calls for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to  reconsider the appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI). 

In a press statement issued by the President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF expressed concern over what they described as a "mix-up" in the appointments announced on December 6, 2024.

The AYCF acknowledged the contributions of Hajia Fatima Umaru-Shinkafi, who was reappointed to the role after Danfulani's initial appointment was reversed. However, they argued that the sector requires new leadership to achieve greater heights. They highlighted Danfulani's background in banking, computing, and business administration, as well as his experience at the Central Bank of Nigeria and as Zamfara State Commissioner of Commerce and Industry.

According to the AYCF, Danfulani's innovative approach and expertise make him an ideal candidate to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda for the solid minerals sector. They believe that his leadership would help revitalize the SMDF/PAGMI and drive reforms in the critical solid minerals sector. The group urged President Tinubu to review the decision in favor of Danfulani's leadership.

The Solid Minerals Development Fund and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative are crucial components of Nigeria's efforts to diversify its economy and boost non-oil revenue. The AYCF's call for reconsideration of Danfulani's appointment comes at a time when the country is seeking to drive reforms in the solid minerals sector.

The AYCF highlights the importance of appointing a leader with the right expertise and vision to lead the SMDF/PAGMI. They believe that the success of these initiatives hinges on the appointment of a leader with the right expertise and vision to drive them forward. In their view, Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is the ideal candidate for this role, and they are urging President Tinubu to reconsider his appointment in order to achieve the desired goals for the solid minerals sector.

The AYCF's stance on this issue highlights the importance of leadership in driving the success of any organization or initiative. A leader with the right expertise and vision can inspire and motivate their team, set clear goals and objectives, and make strategic decisions that will lead to success. In the case of the SMDF and PAGMI, the AYCF believes that Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani possesses the necessary qualities to lead these initiatives to success.

Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the solid minerals sector. He has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and has a proven track record of delivering results in similar roles. His vision for the sector aligns with the goals of the SMDF and PAGMI, and his leadership style is one that inspires confidence and trust in those around him.

President Tinubu's appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani would send a strong signal to the industry and the international community that Nigeria is serious about developing its solid minerals sector. It would also ensure that the SMDF and PAGMI have the leadership they need to succeed in achieving their goals of promoting sustainable development, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth.

Gov. Idris appoints 200 APC youths as Special Assistants

The Governor of Kebbi State, His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has appointed 200 youths of All Progressives Congress (APC) as his Special Assistants.

The governor was gender sensitive, offering the appointment to both male and female folk.

Presenting the offer to the beneficiaries at the APC Secretariat in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, the Kebbi State party Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, said the party was proud of the governor.

The chairman recalled that during their electioneering campaign they went to nooks and crannies of the state sought for people's mandate by making different promises.

He, however, noted with satisfaction that the governor had been able to fulfilled about 80 per cent of such promises, assuring that in no distance time he would soon complete the rest and even go beyond.

Kana-Zuru listed some achievements of the governor to include procurement of fertilisers and distribution of sme to farmers free-of-charge and procurement and distribution of foodstuff to people free.

Others he said, were; construction of triple and double lane roads with solar power street lights in the state capital and completion of Multi-Billion Naira Ultra-Modern State Secretariat among others.

The chairman said: "If you didn't visit Kebbi in the last one or two years, if you come today, you will never belief what your eyes is seeing. 

"His Excellency, Kauran Gwandu runs an open and inclusive government. He wants everybody to enjoy the fruits of democracy, that's why he always tells his appointees to exhibit the habit of free will gift.

"In several occasions, our amiable governor is fun of saying allow the dividends of democracy to filter down to the public, ensure that you make people happy at your own level," the chairman recalled.

He assured the new appointees that they would start enjoying their salaries by the end of this December.

Earlier, Hajiya A'isha Gulabi the State APC Women Leader said they converged on the party's secretariat to show appreciation for "what the governor did to us. 

"Because the appointments are not for the appointees alone, it's for all of us, many people stand to benefit from it.

"We, Kebbi people are glad, God has blessed us with a governor who does good to both who do good to him as well as those who do bad."

She urged the youths in the state  to be loyal and respectful at all times to be able to enjoy more dividends of democracy, while appealing to those who did not get the appoint to be patient as their own turn was also on the pipeline.

A cross section of benefiting youths who spoke, expressed appreciation to the governor, describing him as the governor of the people, for the people and servant of the people.