PGF pay sympathy visit to Gov Nasir Idris over abduction of Schoolgirls in Maga

A high-powered delegation of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), led by its Chairman and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, on Thursday paid a sympathy visit to Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, following the tragic abduction of schoolgirls of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Uzodimma conveyed the Forum’s deep sorrow over the incident and expressed their collective solidarity with the government and people of Kebbi State. 

He condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as an inhuman act never associated with Africa or Nigeria in the past. He expressed shock that such brutality has now occurred in Nigeria, specifically in Kebbi State.

The PGF Chairman assured Governor Idris that all Progressive Governors stand united with Kebbi State at this difficult time. 

He reaffirmed their commitment to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies to strengthen national security and bring an end to insecurity across Nigeria. 

He added that the governors were ready to provide all necessary logistical and network support to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and the country is secured.

Governor Uzodimma also commended the positive improvements in Nigeria’s economy over the past two and a half years, noting increased revenue and the need to ensure the gains translate into prosperity for ordinary Nigerians. 

He emphasized that "an injury to one is an injury to all," affirming that Kebbi State is not alone in this struggle.

Responding, Governor Nasir Idris welcomed the delegation. He described their visit as very dear to the state, significant, and deeply reassuring.

The Kebbi State Governor recounted the distressing incident of the abduction and the trauma experienced by families and communities. 

He noted that the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, had visited the state earlier to deliver President Tinubu’s message of encouragement and the assurance that security agencies were working tirelessly for the safe release of the abducted schoolgirls.

Governor Idris expressed gratitude to the Progressive Governors for their solidarity and compassion. He assured them that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the safe return of the children. 

He also disclosed that he had met with parents, security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to coordinate efforts and prayers for the girls' safe rescue.

The Governor reiterated his confidence that the abducted students would be safely reunited with their families soon.

The Progressive Governor’s delegation was led by the Executive Governor of Imo State, who is also the chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, His Excellency Hope Uzodinma; the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Father Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia; the Executive Governor of Kogi State  His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo; and the Governor of Ondo State Governor, His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Other Governors on the entourage were the Governor of Jigawa State His Excellency Malam Umar Namadi; and Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu  Akabe.

France Assures Deepening Ties With Nigeria, Reaffirms Global Commitment to Peace

    

…France has reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity, and multilateral cooperation as the French Embassy in Abuja joined the world to commemorate Armistice Day, marking 107 years since the end of the First World War.

The solemn ceremony, held on Tuesday, recognised the sacrifices of French soldiers and all who died for the Republic — not only during the First World War but also in other conflicts around the world — in defence of liberty, democracy, and human dignity.

The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, who led the ceremony, said it was a solemn reminder of the cost of peace and the duty of nations to preserve it. Fonbaustier praised the bravery of soldiers who fought for the Republic, saying their sacrifices embody the very spirit of France — courage, honour, and service to humanity. “France remembers not only those who fell on the fields of Europe but also those who fought and died in Africa, Asia, and beyond,” he stated.

Fonbaustier also reaffirmed France’s strong partnership with Nigeria and its continued commitment to multilateral cooperation, peacekeeping, and humanitarian support in Africa and worldwide. He noted that both nations share a vision of stability and mutual respect built on dialogue and democratic values. “France stands with Nigeria and all peace-loving nations in defending the ideals of freedom and human dignity,” he added.

Speaking at the event, the Defence Attaché of France to Nigeria, Colonel Stéphane Useo, stated that the commemoration represents more than mere remembrance; it reflects France’s enduring commitment to promoting peace and upholding shared human values. He said, “Every year, generations gather before the monuments of our towns and villages, united in remembrance and strengthened in our shared purpose — to build a world where liberty, security, and dignity are guaranteed for all.”

Useo paid tribute to the courage and selflessness of French soldiers through the ages, noting that their sacrifices continue to define the strength and values of the French Republic. He also shared a personal reflection, revealing that members of his own family were among those who experienced the horrors of war. “For my family, as for many French families, war was not distant history — it was lived experience. It taught us that freedom is never free, and that peace must always be defended,” he said.

He further highlighted the symbolism of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe and the Bleuet de France, the blue cornflower that has represented solidarity with veterans since 1925. The Defence Attaché described the flower as “a small but powerful emblem of compassion, resilience, and unity.”

The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths and a moment of silence at the embassy’s memorial plaque, as France renewed its message that remembrance is not only about honouring the past but also about sustaining the collective resolve to secure a peaceful and united future.

Kebbi Government Dismisses Claim that Abduction of Schoolgirls in Maga Occurred in a Christian Enclave

The Kebbi State Government has dismissed as false and misleading the claim by Rep. Riley M. Moore, member of the United States Congress that the tragic incident that occurred on Monday at Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State occurred in a “Christian enclave”.

This claim, reported by the Daily Post of Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, is entirely untrue and clear misrepresentation of facts. Maga is a predominantly dominated by Muslims community, and the majority of the abducted students are Muslims which is contrary to the claim made by the American lawmaker.

According to the report, the lawmaker’s reaction focused on the vulnerability of communities that have experienced repeated acts of violence in recent years. This is factually incorrect. Banditry in Northwestern Nigeria  has overwhelmingly affected Muslim communities. These criminal groups do not discriminate based on religion.

On different occasion, these bandits attacked and kill Muslims in their places of worship, more than the Christians. 

A recent example  is the attack on Muslim worshippers in a village near Malumfashi in Katsina State, where several people were killed inside a mosque during prayers.

If these bandits were driven by religious motives, why then do they attack and kill Muslim while praying in mosque? 

It is pertinent to note that the American lawmaker has either been misinformed or has chosen to ignore the realities on the ground.

The Kebbi State Government wishes to make it clear to the global community that terrorist in Nigeria target victims indiscriminately irrespective of religion or political affiliation. They attack people in their homes, schools, places of worship and sometimes block roads kill or abduct people on transit.

For over a decade, the predominantly Muslim states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa have endured sustained attacks, killings and displacement caused by the Boko Haram insurgency. The same case in Northwestern states of Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi all with large population of Muslims with few population of Christians have suffered more casualties from banditry than any other region.

We therefore urge the lawmaker Rep. Moore  and others making similar claims to kindly verify any information and report from Nigeria properly before making public statements that may further distort facts or fuel misunderstanding.

Northern Youth Council Commends Ministers of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff for Upholding Professional Standard

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has thrown its support behind the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, the Minister of State for Defence, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General O.O Olukayode, for upholding the professional standard displayed by Navy Lt. AM Yerima in an encounter with the former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of Abuja, Barrister Nyesom Wike.

It would be recalled that Navy Lt. AM Yerima, alongside other naval personnel acting on superior orders, prevented the Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, from gaining access to a landed property belonging to the former Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral AZ Gambo (Rtd), in Abuja. 

The young Naval officer conducted himself in accordance with global military standards. He displayed a high level of discipline and decorum, which is the tenet of the military.

Perhaps, Bar. Nyesom Wike forgot that the young officer, Navy Lt. AM Yerima, was not just a Nigerian but a symbol of Nigeria as an entity, and Nigeria as an entity is bigger than any individual, and as such, engaging the young officer in that manner translates to engaging the Nigerian entity. So, what the young officer exhibited needs no condemnation, but rather commendation, accolades, and a call for strict adherence to professional standards in the line of duty.

The composure, the choice of words, and the polite manner in which he responded show that the Nigerian Armed Forces are the home of discipline and decorum.

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria also condemns the act of National Youth Council of Nigeria for writing a letter apologizing to the FCT minister Bar Nyesom Wike. The Minister should know that the letter wasn't written with the consent of the Nigerian Youth. 

As a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Bar Nyesom Wike knows better that the officer has not erred in anyway. 

We therefore calls on all office holders, including politicians and Nigerians, to always prioritize the Nigerian entity above any other interest.

Signed: 

Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad

MICA MNIPR ANIM MNUJ AIIPS

National Publicity Secretary

Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN)

Kebbi Govt Confirms Rescue of Deputy Speaker from Kidnappers

 

The Kebbi State Government has announced the safe rescue of the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Samaila Muhammad Bagudu, from captivity.

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Yakubu B. Tafida, on Saturday, the government said the lawmaker was freed through the combined efforts of joint security forces.

“The government is relieved to confirm that Hon. Samaila is in good health and high spirits, and is receiving all necessary support and care,” the statement read in part.

It described the development as a testament to the state government’s commitment to the safety and security of its citizens, commending the security agencies for their “tireless efforts” that led to the successful operation.

The government further reiterated its determination to work closely with security agencies to combat banditry and other forms of insecurity across the state.

“We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to create a safe and secure environment for all citizens and residents of Kebbi State,” the statement added.

While appreciating the cooperation of the public, the government urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

Kebbi Govt. absorbs GAVI/UNICEF supported PHC staff into unified LG Service

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris has approved the full absorption of all GAVI/UNICEF supported Primary Health Care (PHC) staff into the unified Local Government Service to strengthen the PHC system and improve service delivery at the grassroots.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Hon. Commissioner, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Umar Dutsin-Mari and made available to newsmen in Birnin Kebbi.

"In line with the present administration's commitment in strengthening the Primary Health Care (PHC) system and improving service delivery at the grassroots, His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris has approved the full absorption of all GAVI/UNICEF supported PHC staff into the unified Local Government Service.

"The decision followed the successful implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Kebbi State Government and GAVI/UNICEF which has greatly enhance the quality and accessibility of Primary Health Care Service across the 21 LGA in the state," he said.

Dutsin-Mari further explained that during the MoU close-out ceremony, Gov. Idris pledged to secure the future of the dedicated staff who served under the GAVI/UNICEF-supported PHC programmes.

"In fulfilment of that promise, His Excellency, Gov. Nasir Idris has graciously granted approval for their full integration into the Unified Local Government Service," he revealed.

In a similar vein, the Kebbi State Governor had also approved the recruitment of additional 191 personnel bringing the total number of staff to be recruited across the 21 local government areas to 500.

"This measure aims to strengthen manpower capacity, ensure continuity and enhance effective health care delivery across all communities.

"The Kebbi State Government deeply appreciates the invaluable support and partnership of GAVI/UNICEF in improving health outcomes and reforming the health sector," he noted.

According to the commissioner, government remains fully committed to sustaining these achievements and ensuring the welfare of health workers across the state.

He encouraged the public to continue supporting government initiatives aimed at achieving quality and accessible health care services for all residents of Kebbi State.

Shettima Bags “Ezi Enyi Ndi Abia” By Igbo Community In Kaduna

His Royal Highness, Eze Igbo of Kaduna, Eze Silvanus Aleke, on behalf of the Igbo community in Kaduna, has conferred honorary chieftaincy title of “Ezi Enyi Ndi Abia” — meaning Good Friend of Abia — on Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima.

Shettima is the President General of the Area Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum ((NSCF), a respected Northern leader and 2027 Senatorial hopeful for Kaduna Central Senatorial District under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The honour was bestowed during the Abia Cultural Day Celebration and Fundraising Project for the construction of the Abia State Secretariat, organised by the Abia State Indigenes Welfare Association Kaduna (ABSIWA).

In his royal remarks, His Royal Highness, Eze Igbo of Kaduna Chief Aleke, praised Ambassador Shettima describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to peace, unity, and inter-ethnic harmony has endeared him to the Igbo community in Kaduna and beyond.

“Ambassador Yerima Shettima has been a steadfast friend of the Igbo people. He is a bridge-builder, a peace advocate, and a true patriot whose leadership reflects fairness and inclusiveness. This honour is our collective appreciation for his unwavering support and friendship,” His Royal Highness Eze Igbo stated.

Eze Aleke further described Shettima as a political leader who embodies tolerance and national understanding, adding that his example continues to inspire mutual respect among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.

In his response, Ambassador Shettima expressed gratitude to the Eze Igbo of Kaduna and the Abia community, describing the recognition as a symbol of unity and shared national purpose.

“This honour means a lot to me because it reflects the unity and brotherhood that define us as Nigerians. I am proud of the friendship and cooperation that exist between the North and the South East, and I remain committed to promoting peace, justice, and development for all,” Shettima said.

The colourful event drew community leaders, politicians, and cultural associations from across Kaduna, featuring rich displays of Igbo traditional dances and cultural exhibitions, all celebrating unity in diversity and reaffirming the strong bond between the northern and southeastern communities in the state.

ENDS