Tinubu Secures 5,652 Votes in Kebbi Governor’s Ward as Idris, Dakingari, Bagudu Lead Mobilisation

Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, alongside the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Abubakar Bagudu, and Ambassador Saidu Usman Dakingari, successfully mobilised support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who secured 5,652 votes in Nassarawa II Ward, Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Declaring the results after collation, the Kebbi State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu polled 5,652 votes in the Governor’s ward.

The APC chairman commended the electorate for their orderly conduct and coordination, which contributed to the party’s victory.

While monitoring the elections across the state, including in the Argungu Emirate, Governor Idris described the exercise as peaceful, hitch-free, and successful.

According to him, the outcome reflects the overwhelming love and support the people of Kebbi State have for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The governor and his entourage also visited Nassarawa I Ward, where he expressed delight over the massive turnout recorded across polling units in the state.

“I am overwhelmed by the large number of people who came out en masse to vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the governor stated.

In Nassarawa I Ward, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also secured 2,652 votes, according to the officially declared results.

Governor Idris thanked the people of Kebbi State for their continued support for the APC and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering more dividends of democracy across the state.

He further urged the people of the state to reciprocate the support and benefits extended to Kebbi State through the efforts of President Tinubu by turning out en masse to support him in the general elections.

APC Primaries: Aliero Secures Kebbi Central Senatorial District Ticket as Rivals Step Down

Senator Adamu Aliero has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) flag bearer for Kebbi Central Senatorial District after securing the party’s senatorial ticket.

Announcing the result in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, the Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee for Kebbi Central, Comrade Garba Muhammad, expressed satisfaction with the peaceful and orderly conduct of the exercise.

He commended stakeholders for ensuring a transparent and rancour-free primary process.

“Having fulfilled all the requirements of the law and APC regulations, I hereby declare Senator Adamu Aliero as the APC flag bearer for Kebbi Central Senatorial District,” Muhammad said.

In his remarks, Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, thanked Almighty Allah for the smooth conduct of the exercise and praised the people of Kebbi State for their support and confidence in his administration.

He also lauded the reconciliation committee under the leadership of Ambassador Saidu Usman Nasamu, for persuading other aspirants to step down, thereby ensuring a peaceful resolution.

“The committee did a remarkable job. I thank Kabiru Giant for stepping down unconditionally for Senator Aliero. In Kebbi North, Dr. Hussaini Kangiwa stepped down for Senator Yahaya Abubakar-Abdullahi, while in Kebbi South, Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah stepped down for Ja’afar Muhammad Gajere,” the Governor said.

“I thank all of them for placing the unity of the party above personal interest. This demonstrates that, by the grace of God, we will secure victory in all elective positions in 2027,” he added.

Governor Idris commended the APC State Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, for providing leadership that has united party members across the state.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, noting that Kebbi State had benefited immensely from numerous federal projects and programmes under the current administration.

“We have witnessed significant development under President Tinubu’s administration. We must not only deliver Kebbi State for him in 2027, but also secure overwhelming votes for him and all APC candidates at every level,” he said.

Earlier, the State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, recalled that two aspirants had initially contested for the Kebbi Central ticket — Senator Adamu Aliero and Alhaji Kabiru Giant. He explained that Kabiru Giant later withdrew from the race through a formal letter to the party, paving the way for Senator Aliero to emerge unopposed.

In his acceptance remarks, Senator Aliero thanked Almighty Allah for the opportunity to serve once again and appreciated Governor Idris for his role in reconciling aspirants and promoting unity within the party.

He pledged to provide quality representation to the people and urged all aspirants to unite with the winners to ensure victory for the APC in the 2027 general elections.

“Our cooperation and unity are critical to the success of the APC at all levels in the 2027 general elections,” he said.

Mai Kero Wins APC Ticket for Kaduna South Federal Constituency 2027

Hon. Hussaini Abdulkarim Ahmed, popularly known as Mai Kero, has emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary for Kaduna South Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad, the office said Mai Kero secured the ticket through a consensus arrangement ratified by the party.

The results were announced on Saturday at the APC State Secretariat in Kaduna by Chairman of the Primary Election Committee, Senator Yakubu Hussaini. According to him, Mai Kero polled 1,130 affirmative votes to emerge winner. He added that the exercise was conducted in line with the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.

Mai Kero, who represents Kaduna South Federal Constituency and serves as Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities, thanked the APC leadership, delegates, and the people of Kaduna South for their trust and support.

He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Kaduna State Governor Malam Uba Sani, CON, for their leadership and commitment to party cohesion and development in the state.

The lawmaker acknowledged fellow contenders who stepped down from the race, including Hon. Kabiru Yakubu Jarimi, for their sacrifice toward party unity. He said he was extending the hand of fellowship to them and called on all aspirants to work together for APC’s victory in 2027.

“This victory belongs to the people of Kaduna South. It is a mandate to continue the work we started in delivering quality representation, infrastructure, education, and empowerment programs,” Mai Kero said.

Since assuming office, Mai Kero has facilitated free eye care and surgery for over 5,000 people across Kaduna State, constructed more than 10km of roads in Kaduna South Federal Constituency, and provided educational scholarships both locally and internationally. 

He also oversaw the construction of N1.5 billion educational facilities at Government Girls Secondary School Maimuna Gwarzo and a state-of-the-art Skills Acquisition Center at Kurmin Mashi. Other interventions include youth and women empowerment programs, and support for farmers.

On legislative work, he single-handedly sponsored a bill addressing land degradation caused by yearly flooding in Kaduna South Local Government, with a focus on accessing Ecological Funds for remediation.

He pledged to build on these gains and work with all stakeholders to ensure greater development for the constituency.

Capacity Movement President Alleges Manipulation of Reps Primary in Kaduna, Warns Against Imposition

National President of Capacity Movement, Alhaji Sani Shehu Sado, has alleged widespread irregularities and manipulation in the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary election in parts of the state.

Sado accused some government-backed interests of coercing party leadership to do the bidding of powerful political actors at the expense of internal democracy and the wishes of party members.

In a statement made available to journalists, the movement President claimed that there was an absence of party leaders and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in more than 95 percent of the wards monitored during the exercise in wards within Kaduna metropolis and that it may be worse in rural areas, raising concerns over the credibility and transparency of the process.

He alleged that the primary election was characterized by manipulation, exclusion of genuine delegates, and attempts to impose preferred candidates on party members.

According to him, “members must be allowed to freely choose flag bearers in a free, fair, and credible primary election devoid of intimidation, coercion, and political interference.”

Sado warned that the party risks losing public confidence and support ahead of the general election if urgent steps are not taken to address grievances arising from the exercise.

He said the APC must retrace its steps and return to the principles of fairness, justice, and internal democracy upon which the party was founded or risk facing serious consequences during the main election.

Alhaji Sado further stated that aggrieved members and stakeholders should resist all forms of irregularities capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process going forward and in other primaries.

Political observers say allegations of manipulation and imposition of candidates have remained recurring issues in party primaries across the country, often leading to internal crises, litigations, and defections ahead of major elections.

Efforts to get an official reaction from the Kaduna State chapter of the APC on the allegations were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

ENDS

Gov. Idris Launches Digital Training to Boost Workers’ Service Delivery

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has launched a digital training programme for civil servants in the state aimed at boosting effective service delivery.

Flagging off the training exercise at the ultra-modern State Secretariat in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, the governor reminded workers that the present administration belongs to them, hence the need to sustain their support and cooperation.

“Nobody is better than you as far as this administration is concerned. Some people say a labour leader or a teacher cannot run the affairs of a state.

“With the help of Almighty God and your support, today, a teacher is successfully steering the affairs of this administration,” he said.

Speaking on the significance of the training, Gov. Idris stated that the programme was designed to give workers a sense of belonging and create a conducive atmosphere for them to work efficiently and effectively.

The governor also promised to improve the welfare of workers through schemes that would enhance their living standards, adding that such initiatives would include car, motorcycle, and housing loans.

Highlighting some of his administration’s achievements, Gov. Idris disclosed that the government had renovated, reconstructed, and furnished over 2,000 schools, rehabilitated and equipped 22 hospitals, renovated 192 primary healthcare centres, abolished casualisation, absorbed all casual workers, and recruited 5,244 workers across different sectors.

He further noted with satisfaction that the present administration was not owing salaries, pensions, gratuities, or death benefits, assuring workers that the government remained up to date in all payments.

The governor added that the Kebbi State Government had implemented the new minimum wage of ₦75,000, which he noted is above the Federal Government’s approved ₦70,000 minimum wage.

He urged civil servants to continue supporting government policies and programmes to ensure improved performance and development in the state.

Also speaking, the Head of Service, TPL Malami Shekare, thanked the governor for providing a conducive working environment and prioritising the training and retraining of civil servants.

He assured the governor of the readiness of civil servants to continue supporting and cooperating with his administration in moving Kebbi State to greater heights.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Ibrahim Mohammad Sakaba, commended the governor for initiating the training programme.

He explained that the e-governance initiative would equip civil servants with essential digital skills for modern public administration.

About 2,000 junior and middle cadre workers are expected to participate in and benefit from the training programme.

The event also featured the presentation of a “Digital Governor” award to Dr. Nasir Idris by the Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Ibrahim Mohammad Sakaba.

ADC Youth Forum Endorses Shuaibu Idris for Kaduna Governorship

The Kaduna State chapter of the ADC Youth Consultative Forum has endorsed Hon. Shuaibu Idris mni, popularly known as Mikatai, for the governorship ticket of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the next gubernatorial election in Kaduna State.

The group said the endorsement followed what it described as extensive consultations and careful assessment of the political realities and leadership needs of the state.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Aminu Yahaya, the forum said the endorsement was based on merit, competence, leadership capacity and integrity rather than sentiment or ethnic considerations.

According to the group, Kaduna State requires “a leader who understands governance, possesses intellectual depth, commands integrity, and has the practical capacity to unite and develop the state.”

The forum described Shuaibu Idris as an experienced and intellectually sound personality with the capacity to address the state’s socio-economic and political challenges.

It noted that his educational background, administrative experience and human resource management skills distinguished him among contemporary political figures in the state.

The group also cited his integrity, credibility and grassroots acceptance as part of the reasons behind the endorsement.

“At a time when citizens are demanding transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership, Hon. Shuaibu Idris stands out as a man of integrity and credibility,” the statement said.

The forum further stated that the aspirant possessed the financial and economic understanding required to drive investment, youth empowerment and infrastructure development in Kaduna State.

It added that Idris had continued to demonstrate political maturity and bridge-building capacity across different divides.

The group called on the leadership of the ADC, party stakeholders, youth and women groups, religious and community leaders, as well as residents of Kaduna State, to support Idris’ governorship ambition.

According to the forum, the endorsement reflects the aspirations of youths seeking “competent, visionary and people-oriented leadership” in the state.

Gov. Idris Successfully Scales APC Screening, Appreciates Party Leadership

 

The Kebbi State Governor, His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris has successfully scaled through gubernatorial screening conducted by the national body of All Progressives Congress (APC).

The screening exercise, conducted on Friday by the screening committee headed by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda at the Plateu State Liaison Office, Abuja on Friday was peaceful and successful.

In his remarks, the Chairman, of the Screening Committee, who is also the Party's National chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, congratulated Governor Idris on the successful screening which paves the way for his second term bid.

"Having met the requirement of the party and the provisions of the law, you have been successfully screened and qualified to contest for second term in office,” he stated.

He explained that the APC Screening Committee for Sitting Governors seeking re-election or aspiring for Senate seats is chaired by himself.

He added that the APC National Secretary, Sen. Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, Ph.D, serves as Secretary of the committee, while other members include members of the National Working Committee (NWC).

Responding, the Kebbi State Governor and APC gubernatorial Aspirant, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris appreciated the APC national leadership for finding him worthy to be the flag bearer of the party for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

The Governor equally thanked the people of Kebbi State for their continued support and confidence in his administration, assuring them that his second term in the office would also provide more developmental projects across all sectors of the economy.

Gov. Idris pledged to sustain and expand athe good works his administration has already initiated for the benefit of the people of Kebbi and Nigeria at large. 

The Governor was accompanied by the State APC leadership led by Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, His Excellency Ambassador Saidu Usman Nasamu Dakingari, Acting Speaker State House of Assembly Rt Hon Samaila Muhammad Bagudo, SSG,Alh Yakubu Bala Tafida, Dr. Usman Sani Tunga, members of the House Representatives, members State House of Assembly, members State Executive Council, and other party stakeholders.

Youth Groups Seek Stronger Collaboration With Defence Ministry on Peace and Security

 

A coalition of youth and civil society organisations has called for stronger collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Defence in efforts to promote peace, unity and security across Northern Nigeria.

The group, operating under the Forum for Youth Development, Unity & Peace Initiative (FYDUPI), made the call during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, in Abuja.

The delegation, which included members of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership, ethnic nationality groups from Northern Nigeria, Christian Youth Alliance and other civil society partners, was led by its Chairman, Comrade Abdul Danbature.

The group said the visit was aimed at presenting a proposal focused on strengthening national security through coordinated youth and community engagement.

According to the delegation, key areas of focus include promoting peaceful coexistence among religious and ethnic groups, strengthening grassroots peacebuilding, supporting community-based intelligence sharing with security agencies, combating drug abuse among youths and enhancing youth empowerment initiatives.

Others include promoting public awareness of government and military achievements as well as encouraging productive youth engagement across communities.

The group said the Minister expressed readiness to work with them in advancing national peace and security efforts.

“He emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and continuous advocacy for social cohesion,” the statement said, adding that the Minister also stressed the need to address misinformation and ignorance through education and sustained engagement.

The delegation further noted that the Minister encouraged the use of social media platforms, including TikTok, as tools for promoting positive values and public enlightenment.

In recognition of the initiative, the Minister reportedly presented the delegation with an award, describing the engagement as a step toward stronger collaboration in support of national security objectives.

FYDUPI described the meeting as productive and reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Defence Ministry and other stakeholders to promote peace, unity and stability across the country.

The group said it would continue to pursue community-driven solutions aimed at addressing insecurity and strengthening social cohesion in Northern Nigeria and beyond.

Group Warns APC Against Imposing Kaduna Senate Candidate

The Capacity Movement has warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against imposing a candidate for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that only a transparent and democratic primary process would be acceptable to party members.

The group issued the warning while rejecting the alleged endorsement of former senator Shehu Sani as a “consensus candidate” for the Kaduna Central Senate race.

In a statement signed by its President, Shehu Sani Sado, the movement described the purported endorsement as undemocratic and lacking broad consultation with stakeholders and aspirants within the party.

According to the statement, any attempt to impose a candidate could trigger discontent and political tension within the APC in Kaduna State.

“The APC must understand that fielding any unpopular or imposed candidate in Kaduna Central could have grave political consequences for the party in future elections,” the group stated.

The movement questioned how a credible consensus arrangement could emerge without the participation of other aspirants, including Yerima Shettima and Yusuf Zailani.

“We make bold to ask: how can any credible consensus emerge without broad consultations and the inclusion of other notable aspirants and stakeholders in the race?” the statement added.

The group also raised concerns over alleged links between the endorsement exercise and interests within the Kaduna State Government despite previous assurances that no aspirant would be favoured.

“It is also disturbing that despite repeated assurances by Governor Uba Sani, through the Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, that there would be no anointed candidate in Kaduna State, an official campaign office allegedly linked to government interests is now being associated with this controversial endorsement exercise,” the statement said.

The Capacity Movement maintained that democracy within the APC could only thrive through openness, credibility and equal opportunity for all aspirants.

The group therefore called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Uba Sani, the national leadership of the APC and the Kaduna State chapter of the party to guarantee free, fair and transparent primaries.

It specifically demanded direct primaries for the Kaduna Central Senatorial contest.

“We wish to state clearly, unequivocally and without ambiguity that we are demanding direct primaries for the Kaduna Central Senatorial contest,” the statement noted.

The movement further warned that any process perceived to deny aspirants a level playing field could be challenged through legal and political means.

“Anything short of a direct and credible democratic process will be resisted through every legitimate political and legal means available,” it added.

Northern Youth Groups Condemn Sealing of ACF Headquarters, Demand Legal Action

The Joint Action Committee of Northern Youth Associations (JACON) has condemned the sealing of the national headquarters of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, describing the action as illegal and unconstitutional.

In a  statement jointly signed by Muhammad Isa, Director of Public and Strategic Communication of JACON, and the group’s Secretary, Comrade Raphael Terkolar, they stated that the closure of the ACF headquarters represented “a dangerous assault on the rule of law, fundamental rights of association, and the sanctity of civil society organization's in Northern Nigeria.”

The youth groups said there was no justification for the shutdown of the ACF office without due legal process.

“This draconian action… represents a dangerous assault on the rule of law,” the statement said, adding that the development was being viewed “not as an isolated act but as a calculated pattern of intimidation against voices of reason and conscience in our region.”

JACON accused the police of exceeding its constitutional powers, insisting that sealing a private property and civil society office without a court order amounted to abuse of power.

The group called on the Inspector-General of Police to identify and sanction officers allegedly involved in the action.

“We strongly condemn the Nigeria Police Force for overstepping its constitutional mandate,” the statement added.

The youth coalition further alleged that the action may have been aimed at silencing the ACF over its positions on governance and national issues.

It urged the leadership of the ACF to institute legal action against the Nigeria Police Force and any other parties connected to the sealing of the headquarters.

According to the group, the ACF should seek judicial pronouncement declaring the action unlawful and resist “any backdoor negotiations that legitimise the act.”

JACON also warned that northern youths may mobilise for peaceful protests and civil action should the ACF headquarters remain sealed.

The development comes amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the ACF, which has pitched the Board of Trustees (BOT) against the National Executive Committee (NEC) over tenure disputes, constitutional interpretation and allegations of financial misconduct.

The internal rift has led to parallel claims of legitimacy by both camps, further deepening tensions within the influential northern socio-political organisation.

Kaduna 2027: Shettima Picks APC Nomination Forms for Senate Bid

A frontline aspirant for Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, has obtained his expression of interest and nomination forms on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The forms were collected on his behalf by his associates, Hon. Danjuma Paul and Barrister Onus Eugene.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the exercise, Shettima said his decision to pick the forms was aimed at dispelling doubts about his seriousness to contest the seat.

He recalled that he recently led a large crowd of supporters on a declaration visit to the party leadership in Kaduna State, where he formally signalled his intention to join the race.

The aspirant reaffirmed his readiness to participate in the party primaries and dismissed speculations about the emergence of a consensus candidate.

According to him, Kaduna Central requires quality representation in the Senate, stressing that he possesses the integrity, capacity and acceptance needed to serve the people effectively.

Shettima, a former President-General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative(NSCI), said his background in youth advocacy has strengthened his connection with the electorate.

Political observers believe his previous leadership roles have boosted his popularity, particularly among young people in the district.

Also speaking, President of the Capacity Movement, Shehu Sani Sado, described Shettima as a strong contender in the race, noting that current political dynamics favour his emergence.

He added that the aspirant remains one of the leading figures to watch in the Kaduna Central senatorial contest.

ENDS

AYAGL, CSOs Applaud Military Pensions Board Boss Over Reforms

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), in collaboration with the Forum for Youth Development Unity & Peace Initiative and 11 other civil society organisations, has commended the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, for what it described as outstanding leadership and transformative reforms in pension administration.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, and made available to newsmen,  the group said the Board under Abdulraheem’s leadership has emerged as a model of discipline, transparency and efficiency, particularly in the timely payment of entitlements to retired military personnel.

AYAGL President, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, who signed the statement on behalf of the coalition, noted that the consistent and prompt payment of pensions marks a significant departure from past challenges that had undermined the welfare of retirees.

He said, “The timely and consistent payment of retired military personnel under his leadership is not just commendable. It is exemplary and transformative.”

The group observed that pension administration in the military had, over the years, been fraught with delays and inefficiencies, but added that the current leadership of the Board has reversed the trend through deliberate reforms and administrative discipline.

According to the statement, key improvements recorded by the Board include enhanced operational efficiency, removal of bureaucratic bottlenecks, and the adoption of a people-centred approach that prioritises accountability and welfare.

“This remarkable turnaround reflects a clear vision for institutional reform and a commitment to service. This is leadership that delivers and reform that works,” the statement added.

The coalition also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Abdulraheem to lead the Board, describing the decision as strategic and impactful.

It stated that the appointment has yielded tangible results and underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening public institutions and improving governance.

While urging the Military Pensions Board to sustain and deepen the reforms, the group called on other government agencies to emulate the standard of service delivery demonstrated by the board.

AYAGL further reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, accountability, and impactful leadership across the country.

“When leadership works with integrity, the people benefit. Today, we celebrate such leadership,” the statement said.

ENDS

Kebbi State Government Moves to Address Power Supply Challenges, Set Up Investigative Committee

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has assured 

 the people of Kebbi State that his administration will do everything humanly possible to ensure they enjoy 24 hours electricity supply.

The governor also directed that a committee be established to investigate the causes of lingering epileptic power supply in the state.

He made this known during a meeting with KEDCO management and electricity consumers held in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday night.

The meeting, attended by the Managing Director, KEDCO, Dr Umar Hashidu, alongside other top management staff of the company, drew participants from various segments of society, electricity consumers from different walks of life, including government officials, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Trade Unions and ordinary citizens.

Governor Idris directed that the committee should comprise representatives from Kebbi Development Forum (KDF), Commissioners, Local Government Chairmen, CSOs, State Assembly, APC, NLC, Traditional Rulers, among others.

He stated that the committee would engage with the Kaduna Electric to identify the root  causes of epileptic power supply to Kebbi and recommend actionable solutions.

Idris assured that: "As a government, we are looking for another alternative as far as power is concerned and In-Sha-Allah, we will get there."

Earlier, the Secretary to Kebbi State Government (SSG), Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida, said the essence of the meeting was to discuss with the suppliers of electricity why Kebbi was underserved towards finding a lasting solution to the lingering challenges of power.

In their submission, Mr Usman Anache, the NLC Public Relations Officer (PRO) in the state, and Mr Ibrahim Ngaski, Chairman, CSOs Kebbi State chapter, described the lingering power shortage as a sabotage against the government.

They insisted that over 70 per cent of power challenges were deliberately caused by Kaduna Electric.

Also in their separate submission, the Chairman, KDF, Alhaji Usman Abubakar, and the Youth Leader in the state, Ahmad Rufa'i, observed that Kaduna Electric did not invest 10 per cent of what the Kebbi Government invested in the purchase of electrical installations.

They urged the company to be fair, sincere and transparent in dealing with customers, adding that demands of Kaduna Electric on government and customers were endless.

The duo recalled that when power was under NEPA, the company used to replace poles, transformers, and other electrical installations, but today Kaduna Electric declines, leaving such responsibilities to government and communities.

In his response, the MD KEDCO insisted that the company was supplying power to Kebbi in different bands, adding that those on Band A were enjoying 24 hours power supply, while other bands were being served according to their band.

While assuring that, based on his record, Kebbi was getting power compared to some states, the MD, however, promised to improve the supply.

He also cited the vast landmass of Kebbi State as a logistical challenge, noting that it is comparable in size to some countries.

President Tinubu Condoles With Kebbi Govt. Over Bandits' Attack, Speaker's Death

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has visited Kebbi to sympathise with the State Governor and the entire people of the state over bandits' attack that claimed the lives of eleven security personnel in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State as well as the death of the Speaker, Kebbi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Usman-Zuru.

The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, described the loss of the security personnel and the late speaker as a profound and painful one. 

Delivering his message of sympathy at the Government House in Birnin- kebbi, President Tinubu condemned the killing of the security personnel as a barbaric act and commended the gallant efforts of security in protecting lives and property. 

"We commend you for your efforts, the Federal Government is doing everything possible to support you in all ramifications.

"We are here to express our deep sympathy to the families of the fallen soldiers and the affected communities.

"We are also here to condole with you over the demise of the speaker, Kebbi State House of Assembly, late Rt. Hon. Muhammad Usman-Zuru," he said.

Responding, the Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris expressed appreciation to the President for the visit, noting that it demonstrate ls solidarity and shared grief with the people of the state.

The Governor explained that the security personnel were ambushed while responding to distress called in Shanga LGA.

He added that the state government made very effort to ensure the late speaker received adequate medical attention abroad but ultimately submitted to the will of Almighty Allah.

The governor commended the president for his  show of compassion, care and support to Kebbi State and its people.

Also speaking, the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sanusi Mika'ilu, praised the governor for his sustained support to the families of victims and affected communities within the emirate.

WE MUST UNITE IN PRAYER TO SAVE NIGERIA- GOV. IDRIS

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has urged Nigerians to intensify efforts in seeking divine intervention to overcome the security challenges facing the country.

The governor made the call while speaking at an interfaith seminar and prayer session organised for clerics across the state, held at the Presidential Lodge, Birnin Kebbi, on Wednesday.

The event, themed ” The role of clerics in promoting purposeful leadership, peace and security in the state was organised by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government in collaboration with the Kebbi State Council of Ulama.

"Nigeria needs prayers to overcome the lingering security challenges, therefore, we must unite in prayer to save this country.

"Pray for Nigeria, pray for Mr President and pray for Kebbi State," the governor appealed. 

Speaking on his administration, Gov. Idris noted that the progress recorded in the state is a result of purposeful leadership and the continued prayers of the people. 

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to good governance and inclusive development.

"My administration has recorded significant achievements in critical sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, workers’ welfare and support for traditional institutions.

The governor disclosed that Specialist hospitals are currently undergoing renovation across the state, while more than 242 Primary Healthcare Centres have been upgraded to improve access to quality healthcare services. 

On education, he said the government has awarded scholarships, spent N300 million on school feeding, renovated and constructed over 2,000 schools, and supplied furniture to improve the learning environment.

He added that road projects had been executed in Argungu, Gwandu and Zuru Emirates, while the Ka’oje-Illo road project will soon be awarded.

The governor also said his administration has improved workers’ welfare through the implementation of the new minimum wage, and pledged sustained support for security agencies to strengthen safety across the state.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Sheikh Muhammad Sani Aliyu, noted that clerics have a critical role to play in ensuring peace within the state and beyond.

He explained that the seminar featured several sub-themes aimed at fostering lasting peace across the state, with "Good Governance, Peace and the Role of Clerics in sustaining Peace" as the central theme.

The commissioner commended Gov. Idris administration for establishing the Ministry of Religious Affairs, describing it as a landmark achievement in the state’s history.

He also appreciated the governor for introducing regulatory laws governing the activities of boards operating under the ministry.

These laws are meant to shape the society," he said.

The commissioner also thanked the governor for allocating piece of land for cemeteries for both Muslims and Christians.

In separate presentations, Sheikh Muhammad Abubakar-Wali and Sheikh Ahmed Usman-Mukhtar called for justice, fairness, prudent leadership and the responsible use of social media by religious leaders.

Also speaking, Christian leaders, including Rev. Nuhu Mamman-Kuda and Rev. Ayuba Kanta, commended the governor for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among religious groups in the state.

On his part, scholar Sheikh Abbas Jega urged clerics to uphold justice, sincerity and integrity in the discharge of their religious responsibilities.

Engineers urged to embrace Artificial Intelligence for competitive advantage

Professionals in Nigeria’s engineering sector have been urged to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic tool to enhance productivity and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

The call was made at the 2nd and 3rd Engr. Augustine Ikebude Okolo Memorial Lecture organised by the Automotive and Locomotive Engineers Institute in collaboration with the Nigerian Society of Engineers Kaduna Branch and the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers Kaduna Chapter.

The event attracted senior engineers, fellows and industry practitioners, with the Presidents of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria in attendance.

Delivering a keynote lecture titled “Rethinking Productivity, Performance, and Professional Impact in the Age of AI,” the Founder of AI Mastery Academy, Gabriel Gambo Nmadu, said traditional measures of productivity are rapidly becoming obsolete.

He noted that many professionals still equate busyness with productivity, stressing that the emerging reality demands smarter, technology-driven approaches to work.

Nmadu introduced what he described as a “new productivity equation,” explaining that output is now determined by the combination of skill and AI leverage over time.

According to him, professionals who will thrive are those who can effectively integrate their expertise with AI tools to deliver faster and higher-quality results.

He further highlighted the concept of a “personal AI productivity stack,” which includes tools for communication, research, data analysis, presentations and automation.

“High performers today are not defined by how hard they work, but by how intelligently they use AI as a co-pilot,” he said.

While advocating wider adoption of AI, Nmadu stressed that human capabilities such as critical thinking, creativity, ethical judgment and effective communication remain essential.

He described these skills as the key differentiators that will continue to give professionals an edge in an AI-driven environment.

The session also featured practical demonstrations showing how AI tools can be integrated into everyday engineering workflows.

Nmadu urged professionals to position themselves for emerging opportunities by acquiring AI skills, updating their professional profiles and engaging in continuous learning.

“AI will not replace you, but a professional who uses AI will replace you,” he said.

The lecture, organisers said, is part of ongoing efforts to promote capacity building and ensure Nigerian engineers remain relevant in a technology-driven