Southern Kaduna to honour Lekwot, Agwai, Kukah, Makarfi, ex-Gov Yakowa, others

 

....Deputy Gov. says diversity is source of enrichment, progress

By Editor

 Southern Kaduna is honouring the former Military Administrator of old Rivers State, Major-General Zamani Lekwot (retd),  former Chief of Defence State, General Martin Luther Agwai (retd), the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Dr Matthew Hassan Kukah, former Governor of Kaduna State, Ahmed Makarfi, and others for  the enormous impact they made as past and present leaders in the zone, which had brought about development, peace, unity, good governance, sense of belonging and cooperation in the region. 

The region is also honouring the late Governor of Kaduna State, Ibrahim Yakowa who died in a helicopter crash in December 2013 posthumous award will be given to

The former leaders of the region will be honored at the maiden Southern Kaduna Festival which which commenced yesterday in Kafanchan, Kaduna, 

In his welcome address, Chairman Central Planning Committee of the festival, Rear Admiral Ferguson Bobai (rtd) said, the festival is a cornucopia of delightful experiences, beckoning on people to indulge in its irresistible splendor.

“From colloquium that will stimulate your ambiance, to enchanting musical performances that will transport you to another realm, SKFEST 2023 promises to be a tapestry of unforgettable memories.”

He said the festival which is aimed at showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Southern Kaduna through traditional dances, captivating beauty pageant, mouthwatering culinary delights. sports, fascinating game of archery and traditional wrestling, will unite the people of the region.

In her remarks, Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe urged people to consider diversity of culture in the region as strength and source of enrichment that has the power to propel Kaduna state and Nigeria towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

The Deputy Governor who declared the 3-day festival open at the Kafanchan Township Stadium on Thursday said, the festival is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Southern Kaduna and promote intercultural exchange among the people of Southern Kaduna, and between Southern Kaduna and other cultural groups in Kaduna and Nigeria at large.

Dr Balarabe who was represented by the Administrator of Kafanchan Municipal Authority, Mrs Phoebe Sukai Yayi said, no community or region can exist in isolation, adding that, presently, there are myriad factors that bind people across the globe, with humanity serving as the ultimate common thread. 

She said, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani believes that all lives matter, and this should be their standpoint in Southern Kaduna. “We must respect each other in the region and those outside of it, regardless of differences in backgrounds.

“In a world that often emphasizes our differences, events such as this provide us with an invaluable opportunity to recognize and celebrate our shared humanity. I would like to take this moment to encourage all participants, spectators, and stakeholders present to embrace the spirit of unity and respect for one another.

“Let us recognize that diversity is not a challenge but a strength, a source of enrichment that has the power to propel us towards a brighter and more prosperous future. This is why I find the theme of this year's celebration, "Experience Unity, Celebrate Cultures," very appropriate. It will serve as a testament to the rich diversity and harmonious coexistence in Southern Kaduna.

“The goals of this festival are not merely confined to the realms of entertainment and sports but extend far beyond, aiming to foster and promote inter-relations and exchanges between the people of Southern Kaduna and other cultural groups within the state and across Nigeria. This pursuit of inclusivity is paramount, given the large number of ethnic groups in this area. The festival will also provide us with the opportunity to tell our story, explaining where we come from and where we hope to go.

“As we revel in the festivities and partake in the various activities, let us keep in mind the collective interests of Southern Kaduna. Our strength lies in our ability to come together, appreciate our differences, and work towards a shared vision of progress and prosperity,” she said.

The festival which will close on Saturday, is expected to have Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, his Bayelsa State counterpart, Senator Douye Diri, Speaker House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, Senator Sunday Marshal Katung, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and other dignitaries in attendance.

Kebbi: Maiyama Council Chairman dies at 47

 

By Editor

 Kebbi State Government has announced the death of Hon. Zayyanu Muhammad-Bello, the Executive Chairman of Maiyama Local Government Area.

The deceased died at the early hours of Thursday morning at Usman Danfodio University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto, after a procterated Illness. 

In a statement by Chief Press Secretary to the state's governor, Ahmed Idris, he said "The Kebbi State Government wishes to use this medium to extend its condolences to the immediate family and the entire people of Maiyama Local Government Area.

"We pray to Almighty Allah to forgive all his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus," he said.

The late council chairman left behind two wives and three children.

Coalition Of South South Youth Groups Accuse Zamfara Govt Of Plots To Undermine EFCC, Judiciary

 

By Editor

The Coalition of South-South Youth Groups has expressed deep concerned about recent developments involving the planned sponsorship of groups by the government of Zamfara State to undermine the credibility of government institutions, including the EFCC and the Judiciary.

The groups aais such actions are unacceptable and detrimental to the democratic values we hold dear.

"It has come to our attention that certain entities linked to the Zamfara State government, are planning on engaging in activities that aim to tarnish the reputation of key institutions crucial to the rule of law. Such attempts to blackmail the government threatens the foundation of our democratic system.

The statement was signed by Comrade Israel Uwejeyan National Coordinator (Niger Delta Youth Congress) Prince Brozie Utomodo National President 

South south  Youth Forum, Barr. Preye Oporomo Convener South-south Youth Vanguard and Mr. Valentine Ugboli 

National Coordinator Niger Delta Movement for Youth Empowerment.

The coalition said, "in the light of these disturbing allegations, we call upon His Excellency, the Governor of Zamfara State, to immediately desist from any involvement in sponsoring clandestine groups that engage in activities meant to undermine the integrity of our national institutions. We believe in the importance of upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

"It is essential for leaders to focus on fostering an environment of trust, collaboration, and adherence to legal and ethical standards. Any perception of interference or manipulation can erode public confidence and hinder the effectiveness of government institutions in ensuring justice and combating corruption.

"1It is imperative that the EFCC and the judiciary remains steadfast and focused on its mandate, regardless of external pressures or attempts to hinder its operations. We believe in the importance of a robust and independent judiciary and anti-corruption agency  to foster Justice, transparency, accountability, and the overall well-being of our society.

"The leadership and members of the Coalition of South south Youth Groups are poised to meticulously monitor the activities of unscrupulous individuals aiming to use South south Youths to Blackmail certain individuals and Government institutions. We adamantly affirm our commitment to thwart any nefarious attempts to manipulate or exploit our energetic youths for the purposes of fomenting chaos or contriving issues under the veiled guise of any deceptive agenda.

The coalition therefore urged the Department of State Services (DSS) to intensify its scrutiny of the activities of the Zamfara State government to ensure that it operates within the bounds of the law. The DSS plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's security and must be vigilant in monitoring any actions that may compromise the stability and fairness of our democratic system.

Akeredolu: Kebbi Gov. condoles with President Tinubu, APC, Ondo State

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris has condoled with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, All Progressives Congress (APC) and Ondo State Government over the death of Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu.

The Governor made this known in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Idris and made available to Newmen in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday. 

Idris described the death of Akeredolu, whom he described as an iconic politician as a great loss not only to his immediate family and Ondo people but also a significant loss to the entire APC family and Nigeria at large.

Akeredolu died at the age of 67 in Lagos in the early hours of Wednesday after a protracted illness.

Gov. Idris recalled that the late politician had left a vacuum which would be difficult to be filled in view of his indelible mark not only in the political space of Nigeria but also his gigantic achievements in the legal profession.

"On behalf of myself, Kebbi State Government and the good people of Kebbi State, I wish to render our condolences to Mr President, APC family, Ondo State Government and the immediate family over the death of a distinguished politician," he said.

The governor encouraged the family and people of Ondo State to take heart and accept the will of God Almighty in good faith.

Xmass: Gov. Idris preaches love tollerance among mankind

 

By Our Reporter

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu has appealed to Christians to exhibit the spirit of love and tollerance to strengthen brotherliness among mankind.

The governor made this known in a Christmas message to the good people of Kebbi State to mark the 2023 Christmases season.

Gov. Idris identified harmonious relationship amongst people with different faith, culture and tradition as a catalyst for Nigeria to attain greatness, "hence the need for us to love, accommodate and tolerate one another toward building an enviable nation.

"Remember, Christmas period is not only about celebration but it is a period of both joy and sober reflection. Therefore, I urge you to borrow a leave from the life of Jesus Christ and follow his teachings to the later."

While wishing the entire Christians in the state a hitch-free moment, Gov. Idris appealed to them support government policies and programmes to facilitate more dividends of democracy in their respective domains. 

He also called on religious leaders to continue to preach peace among their followers in order to sustain the prevailing peace across the state.

Gov Sani inaugurates centre to train 800 youths annually, launches massive projects in S'Kaduna

By Editor

Governor Uba Sani set off a wave of jubilation in Southern Kaduna as he launched a series of transformative projects across the region.

 Among the highlights was the groundbreaking ceremony for the Vocational and Technology Skills Acquisition City in Samaru Kataf, aimed at annually training 800 youths in various vocations—a significant step towards empowering the region's youth.

Expressing his commitment to rural transformation, Governor Uba Sani highlighted the significance of these initiatives. He emphasized, "We are here for the groundbreaking of some important roads we want to construct across the eight local government areas of Southern Kaduna. Our administration's primary focus is to revitalize the rural economy by connecting markets with farms, supporting farmers in transporting produce, creating jobs, and reducing poverty."

Enumerating the array of projects, the governor revealed plans for constructing key roads, rehabilitating vandalized transformers, and rebuilding the Zango Urban market—a testament to the administration's dedication to addressing the community's needs.

 Governor Uba Sani reaffirmed, "We want to equip our youths so that they can compete favorably with their counterparts across the world in skills. This will enable them to be gainfully employed."

Moreover, the paramount ruler of Zangon-Kataf, the Agwatyap, Dominic Gambo-Yahaya, hailed Governor Uba Sani's commitment to rural development and his support for the people of Zango-Kataf. In recognition of his efforts, the Agwatyap honored the governor with the traditional title of 'Chat Atyap,' signifying his deep affection for the Atyap people.

The governor's dedication to uplifting Southern Kaduna through comprehensive development projects resonated deeply, igniting hope and excitement among the residents for a brighter future ahead.

Buzawa association honours Gov. Idris, SSG

 

By Our Reporter

The National Association of Buzawa in Nigeria (Kungiyan hadin kan Buzaye na kasa a Nigeria) has honoured the Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu and Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida with prestigious awards.

The awards were presented to the Governor, SSG, Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu-Bashar and Emir of Agungu, Alhaji Sama'ila Muhammadu-Mera during a meeting organised by the association held in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital on Saturday.

Presenting the award to the governor, the Present of the association, Malam Ali Agada said the award was in recognition of the good work of the awardee as well as his tireless efforts in promoting peace and unity amongst people of different socio-cultural background. 

The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Malam Mohammed Yakubu, described Kauran Gwandu as a rear gem with a unique and purposeful leadership qualities.

He said the essence of the meeting was to foster unity among members and to use the period to pray for restoration of peace to the state and the country at large.

Receiving the award, the governor, who was represented by his Adviser, Hon. Shafi'u Zauro, said Kebbi remained a people's state and it welcomed visitors from far wide. 

He said: "Buzawa are part of Kebbi and we are part of them, therefore, you should always feel at home. I am happy that you organise this meeting to strengthen unity among yourselves and to pray for Kebbi State in particular and Nigeria at large."

Also receiving the award, the SSG, who was represented by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris lauded the association for finding him worthy of the award and encouraged them to sustain the good spirit for the good of all.

He encouraged members of the association to consider Kebbi State as their second home, adding that: "In Kebbi we don't discreminate against any visitor." 

The Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu-Bashar, represented by Alhaji Umar Aliyu, Mabudin Gwandu, appreciated the association for the gesture.