Stop The Witch Hunt, Arewa Network Caution EFCC Over Yahaya Bello

By Editor 

The Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) has strongly condemned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for what it calls a witch hunt against the former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. 

In a statement released today, NEN Chairman, Suleiman Abbah, expressed concern over the ongoing intimidation and harassment of Governor Bello, stating that such actions are unacceptable.

The group pointed out that the original charge against Yahaya Bello alleges his involvement in a conspiracy to convert funds belonging to the Kogi State Government. However, the NEN highlights that this offense is said to have occurred in September 2015, before Bello even assumed office as Governor. 

The group argues that accusing him of a crime that occurred before he held the position is illogical and baseless.

Furthermore, the NEN emphasizes that Governor Bello had no financial dealings with the Kogi State Government prior to his appointment, raising doubts about the validity of these allegations. 

The group questions the credibility of the EFCC and its leadership, stating that these ridiculous and indefensible accusations tarnish the agency's reputation and undermine public trust.

The NEN also warns political actors to refrain from interfering in Kogi State affairs and to cease their campaign of calumny. It highlights that the state government has not reported any missing funds and has been recognized for its transparency and accountability both locally and internationally.

 The group urges the appropriate authorities to conduct their investigations without undue political influence.

In light of these concerns, the NEN calls on President Tinubu to intervene and safeguard the integrity of the EFCC. The agency should not be manipulated or coerced into engaging in a fight that should be left to politicians. 

The President must ensure that the EFCC operates independently and upholds the principles of justice and fairness.

The NEN concludes by urging the EFCC to refocus on its core mandate of combating corruption rather than engaging in baseless pursuits of individuals without substantial evidence. It states that it is time to put an end to this witch hunt and restore faith in the justice system.

Insecurity: Ohanaeze youths laud Defence Minister, Matawalle’s efforts

By Editor 

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has lauded the ongoing efforts by the Defence Minister, Dr Bello Matawalle to restore sanity in the country. 

The group spoke through a statement issued by its National President, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, where he singled out Matawalle for praise in what he called “dogged efforts to free the country from the grip of criminals.”

Okwu said the Ohanaeze youths took note of Matawalle’s recent efforts, including his recent speech during a meeting of Defence Ministers in Saudi Arabia, where rallied joint support to make the world a better place.

He said that at the meeting, Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Matawalle presented real life experience of Nigeria to the audience, with the hope of finding a lasting solution to Nigeria’s security challenges

He quoted Matawalle as saying during the meeting that, “The threat of terrorism continues to evolve, becoming more complex and widespread. It is imperative that we, as a coalition, stand side by side, combining our resources and expertise to protect our nations and maintain global security. 

“Pertinently, it is worthy to reinforce Nigeria’s commitment and the need for a deeper level of partnership in the areas of intelligence sharing, technical support and training to enhance regional and national security.”

Okwu stated that Matawalle’s speech showed that he knows the dynamics of the security issues plaguing the West African sub-region and Africa and the world as a whole. 

“The Minister understands that there is a global threat to make the world restless. 

“He understands the rudiments of the security crisis we are facing as a nation, which can only be solved with collaboration with our neighbours and other countries of the world. 

“We appreciate his efforts and commitment towards ensuring that every part of the country enjoys serenity. 

“More importantly is the coordination of the security architecture by the defence minister, hence we have not seen cases of inter-agency rivalry. 

“We, Ohanaeze youths, pass a confidence vote on him and urge him to continue the good work he is doing. He is one of the best brains President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assembled to deliver on his ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’. 

“Our firm belief is that in no distant time, all his efforts will pay off and the citizens will enjoy a peaceful nation,” the Ohaneaze youths president said.

Kebbi Governor bags 2023 New Telegraph Best Agricultural Award

By Editor

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has received the 2023 Best Agricultural Award from New Telegraph Newspapers.

Presenting the award on behalf of the company on Friday at a radian colorful ceremony held at Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Secretary to Lagos State Government (SSG), Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin congratulated the awardee for a well deserved award.

Salu-Hundeyin urged the governor to see the award as a moral booster to do more in agricultural development in Kebbi State without forgetting other sectors of the economy.

In his speech, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Dakuku Peterside described the award as one of the prestigious awards in the country, noting that it was being given only to those who deserved.

The Managing Director/Editor-In-Chief, Mr Ayodele Aminu said His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris was considered for the award based on merit after thorough investigation on the performance of governors in agricultural sector and found him worthy of the award.

He explained that the extra ordinary performance of the awardee was beyond imagination which culminated into a huge success, thereby contributing a lot to national food security.

Aminu advised Kauran Gwandu to sustain the tempo for the good of the sector, Kebbi State and Nigeria at large. 

Receiving the award on behalf of the governor, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Kebbi State, Hon. Yakubu Ahmed-BK assured the determination of the governor to ensure holistic transformation of not only agricultural sector but entire sectors of the economy.

He appreciated the New Telegraph for a thorough investigation on agricultural performances of Kauran Gwandu which earned him the award. 

The Commissioner for Information was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Alhaji Sa'idu Buhari-Warah as well as the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris.

Yoruba youths commend Matawalle as best minister in Tinubu's government

By Editor

Yoruba Youths have commended the Minister of State, Defence, Bello Matawalle for what they described as his relentless efforts to find immediate solution to the insecurity challenges confronting Nigeria.

They said Matawalle, who currently is in Saudi Arabia attending a conference of Ministers of Defence from Africa, Europe and Asia as part of his ongoing efforts to seek global partnerships in fight against terror and banditry and other security breaches in the country, deserves the special commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the best performing minister in his administration.

In a statement by the National President of Yoruba Youth Council, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the youths noted that Matawalle is attending the Saudi intercontinental security conference barely a week after actively participating in a two-day roundtable on security in Northern Nigeria and the rest of the Country between January 24 and 25, which was chaired by a former Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR (rtd) in demonstration of his "commendable zeal to find an urgent solution to the worrisome problem of insecurity facing our dear Country, Nigeria."

At the critical meeting which kicked off last Friday, February 2, 2024 in Rhiyad the Saudi capital, Matawalle, who is joining Defence Ministers from Africa, Asia, and Europe to discuss various tested and effective strategies on securing their respective areas and other parts of the world.

Oluwole said: "We believe that it will be in the best interest of our Country Nigeria if these strategies, which are effectively working in securing other parts of the world, are brought home by Matawalle for domestication by our Country's security architecture to solve the insecurity confronting us.

"We particularly note Matawalle's performance since he became Minister of State, Defence, a brilliant carryover from his tenure as a former Governor of Zamfara State, where he recorded numerous achievements that are exemplary and indelible in the annals of the history of Zamfara State.

"Yoruba youths commend the Minister of State, Defence, Bello Matawalle especially for the energetic way in which he is tackling this critical problem of insecurity in our Country.

"We want to salute his courage for the unique way he is attending to his duties in the ministry, which is unusual, and which promises to bequeathe to the nation a Defence Ministry that we will all be proud of.

"We really believe in Matawalle based on his performance when he was Zamfara State Governor and we know his good performance in that State.

"We want to encourage him to give more in his vommendable performance in the Tinubu administration, which we believe will give Nigeria an exemplary leadership.

"On this basis, we call on Mr President to specially commend the Minister of State, Defence, Bello Matawalle as the Best Minister so far in his government."

Matawalle Recognized for Visionary Leadership in Safeguarding Nigeria's Security

By Our Reporter

Bello Mohammed Matawalle, the Minister of state Defence has been recognized by the Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) for his exceptional leadership and dedication to national security. 

The group, in a statement signed by its Chairman Suleiman Abbah, highlighted Matawalle's outstanding contributions to the defence sector and his pivotal role in safeguarding the nation.

Matawalle's strategic approach to defence policies and initiatives, as well as his unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Nigeria, have garnered widespread acclaim. 

His remarkable leadership qualities as the Minister of Defence have significantly contributed to ongoing efforts in securing Nigeria from internal and external threats. 

His dedication to national security is evident in his unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the nation's citizens.

By implementing initiatives aimed at enhancing the preparedness and efficiency of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Matawalle has demonstrated a clear vision for the defence and sovereignty of the nation. His strategic approach to defence policies has played a crucial role in strengthening the capabilities of the armed forces.

The NEN acknowledges Matawalle not only for his leadership but also for his ability to navigate complex security issues. In a time of evolving challenges, his strategic direction has been instrumental in maintaining relative security across the country. His efforts have contributed to the overall stability and well-being of Nigeria.

Matawalle's visionary leadership has been instrumental in upholding the security and defence interests of Nigeria. His ability to foresee potential threats and implement proactive measures has earned him widespread acclaim. By prioritizing the safety of the nation, he has demonstrated his commitment to the well-being of its citizens.

The NEN celebrates Bello Matawalle as the Personality of the Year, recognizing his exemplary service to the nation. His tireless efforts in upholding the security and defence interests of Nigeria have not gone unnoticed. Matawalle's dedication and commitment to national security have set a high standard for future leaders in the defence sector.

Bello Mohammed Matawalle's exceptional leadership and dedication to national security have been acknowledged by the Northern Emancipation Network. His strategic approach to defence policies, visionary leadership, and tireless efforts in upholding the security and defence interests of Nigeria have made him a deserving recipient of this recognition.

 Matawalle's unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the nation's citizens has played a pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria amidst evolving challenges. As the Minister of Defence, he continues to demonstrate remarkable leadership qualities, contributing significantly to the ongoing efforts to secure the nation from internal and external threats.

ENDS

Arewa Youth Consultative Forum Passes Vote of Confidence on Matawalle

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has passed a vote of confidence on Minister  of State Defense Bello Mohammed Matawalle, recognizing him as one of the top-performing ministers in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's cabinet.

A statement signed by AYCF's President General Yerima Shettima commended Matawalle for his exceptional leadership and dedication to upholding the security and defense interests of Nigeria and highlighted his achievements, particularly in international outreach for defense partnership and cooperation, as well as his efforts in combating the prevailing security situation in the country.

The group said Matawalle's visionary leadership has been instrumental in safeguarding the security and defense interests of Nigeria. "His ability to anticipate potential threats and implement proactive measures has earned him widespread acclaim. By prioritizing the safety of the nation, Matawalle has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the well-being of its citizens."

According to Shettima, one of Matawalle's notable achievements is his successful international outreach for defense partnership and cooperation. Recognizing the importance of collaboration in addressing security challenges, he has actively engaged with foreign counterparts to foster mutual understanding and cooperation. 

Through these efforts, Matawalle has strengthened Nigeria's defense capabilities and enhanced its position on the global stage.

"Matawalle's diplomatic initiatives have resulted in increased military cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint training exercises with various countries. These partnerships have not only bolstered Nigeria's defense capabilities but have also facilitated the exchange of knowledge and expertise in combating terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats," Shettima said. 

He said Matawalle has made significant strides in successfully combating the prevailing security situation in the North and across Nigeria. Through his leadership, he has enhanced the defense system and military preparedness, ensuring that the nation is well-equipped to tackle security challenges effectively.

"Under Matawalle's guidance, the Nigerian defense forces have undertaken strategic operations to neutralize terrorist groups and criminal elements. These operations have resulted in the rescue of hostages, the recovery of territories previously under the control of insurgents, and the dismantling of their networks. 

Matawalle's proactive approach and commitment to intelligence-led operations have played a crucial role in these successes," he said.

Kebbi International Airport to commence flight operations to Abuja

 

By Editor

Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport (SABIA), Birnin Kebbi  will commence  flight operation to Abuja with NG Eagle Airline on the 7th of February. 

Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to Kebbi State Governor made this known in a statement. 

It will be recalled that the Kebbi State International Airport was mong the five airports taken over by the Executive Council of the Federation.

 Idris in his statement said Alhaji Habibu Muhammad Sabi Kamba, Permanent Secretary/General Manager of the airport had earlier issued a statement for commencement of flights operations. 

 The statement reads in parts: "The Hon. Commissioner Ministry of Works and Transport, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Faruk wishes to inform the general public that all is now set for the recommencement of flight operation from Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport Birnin Kebbi to Abuja from Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024.

 "The operation will continue every Friday, Saturday and Wednesday of every week. This is in line with the vision and mission of the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, to better the lives of the people and promote investment opportunities to Kebbi State."