Kebbi govt. declares Friday public holiday

By editor

The Kebbi State Government has declared Friday, Aug. 30, 2024 as public holiday to enable people prepare for Saturday's Local Government elections.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner Establishment, Pension and Training, Hon. Auwal Manu-Dogondaji, issued to Newsmen in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday.

He said: "His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu has approved tomorrow, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024 as public holiday.

"This is to enable electorate to prepare themselves for the forthcoming local government elections, slated for Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024.

"Government decided to give people the opportunity to prepare themselves for the D-Day to exercise their franchise. 

"Therefore, we are calling on civil servants as well as the entire members of the public to come out en mass and exercise their rights," he advised.

While calling on people to sustain the prevailing peace being experienced across the state, the commissioner urged the electorate to maintain high sense of decorum during and after the polls.

Kebbi @ 33: Gov. Idris appreciates Kebbi people's support, solicits for more

By Editor

His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has lauded the good people of Kebbi State for their unalloyed support to his administration and pleaded with them to sustain the tempo for rapid development of the state.

He made this known while rejoicing with the entire people of the state on the attainment of 33 years of statehood.

It could be recalled that Kebbi State was created on Aug. 27, 1991 during the reign of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babagida as president.

The governor particularly appreciated the traditional rulers in the state for their fatherly advice, support and consistent preaching for sustainable peace across the state.

Gov. Idris appealed to the royal fathers not to relent in their efforts to foster unity, peace and development of the state.

He gave kudos to previous civil and military administrations of the state for their active contributions that culminated to the growth and development of Kebbi State, "without which we wouldn't have been where we are today.

"I want to use this medium to appreciate our former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Ibrahim Badamasi Babagida who in his own wisdom find it imperative to curve out Kebbi State out of old Sokoto State.

"There is no doubt that people of Kebbi State are now yielding the fruits of this wisdom, therefore, we are much grateful. We wish you long life, good health and God's guidance," he prayed.

The governor encouraged all and sundry to pray for the present administration at all levels to achieve their set goals and objectives of ensuring peace, unity, and rapid growth development in the society.

While preaching to the people to sustain the prevailing peace across the state, the governor clamoured for more support and cooperation to enable the present administration take the dividends of democracy to the door steps of electorate.

Gov. Idris reiterated his readiness to redouble efforts in executing more developmental projects across the state to give citizenry in all parts of the state a sense of belonging.

Arewa Youth Group Hold Solidarity Rally In Support Of Tinubu, Kyari

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) support groups Wednesday carried out a peaceful solidarity rally in Abuja to declare their total and unalloyed support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mele Kolo Kyari.

The support rally was on the premise of several calls for President Tinubu to relief the NNPCL boss of his position on grounds of challenges facing the oil sector, a call some viewed as subtle efforts targeted at President Tinubu by enemies of the country who are committed to fighting back following the removal of the fuel subsidy by this administration.

Addressing journalists on the sideline of the peaceful support rally , the leader of the rally and Speaker of the AYAGL Ambassador Abdul DanBature said, the solidarity rally was basically to urge President Tinubu to disregard such calls as it is the handiwork of enemies of his administration.

" As a group committed to good leadership, we have seen a capable hand in the person of Mele Kyari and we will do whatever it takes legitimately to support him to continue to achieve success in the oil sector"he stressed.

" Kyari's scorecard is impressive, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. However, with great success comes great envy, and Kyari is now facing opposition from forces of evil who seek to tarnish his reputation.

Also, the Speaker said, the solidarity rally is to further urge Mr Kyari to continue the good works of repositioning the NNPCL towards greatness, adding that he should not be discouraged by calls for his sack by faceless individuals.

" For us, we are committed to good governance and will support any organization be it government or individual that is providing good governance and that is why we declared our support for Mele Kyari and to assure him publicly that we will always support him" Danbature said.

ENDS

NAN Caution Hon. Benjamin Kalu Over Unwarranted Confrontations With Governor Otti

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The Northern Awareness Network (NAN), a group dedicated to the promotion of collective progress and harmonious coexistence within the various states of our beloved federation, had condemned recent actions taken by Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives.

NAN in a statement issued by it's national Coordinator Salihu Suleiman said, it has come to their attention that Hon. Kalu has engaged in confrontational activities with the current Governor of Abia State Alex Otti, a course of action which they felt does not only threatens to create discord within a region that desperately seeks unity but also undermines the legitimate efforts of the Abia State government, which is steadfastly working towards revitalizing various sectors of the state. 

The group averred that, as a representative of the people, Hon. Kalu must recognize that his actions carry significant repercussions for the constituents he serves and urged him to reconsider his approach and to prioritize the responsibilities that come with his legislative role, adding that the people of Abia State deserve representation grounded in constructive dialogue and cooperation, not in divisive rhetoric and unnecessary grandstanding. 

"The ongoing administration is committed to reinforcing the foundations of development in the state. It is imperative that all stakeholders, including Hon. Kalu, channel their energies toward supporting this vision rather than detracting from it.

"The record of Hon. Kalu's performance in the legislature has been a source of concern among constituents, with critiques emphasizing his perceived inadequacies and lapses in duty. We implore him to focus on improving his legislative performance and rebuilding his reputation, which has suffered considerably due to actions that have cast disrepute upon the integrity of the House".

NAN said, the citizens of Abia State are looking for effective leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the people over personal conflicts, and it is essential for leaders to demonstrate resilience and fortitude in challenging times.

"As a political novice who is still finding his footing within the complexities of national governance, it would serve Hon. Kalu well to heed our caution. Rather than engaging in confrontations that distract from real governance issues, he should work diligently to recover his relevance in the House of Representatives.

The path to effective representation is paved with collaboration, mutual respect, and a genuine commitment to the public good.

"We would like to bring this statement to a decisive conclusion by unequivocally warning that should Hon. Kalu persist in his disruptive confrontation with the governor, the Northern Awareness Network does not hesitate to galvanize the citizens of Abia State to rise against efforts that threaten their well-being. We are prepared to initiate a comprehensive recall effort to ensure that the voices of the voters are heard, and that those who serve them are held accountable for their actions.

"We beseech Hon. Benjamin Kalu to allow Abia State to thrive under its current popular administration, which is working tirelessly to advance the state's interests. A united front is paramount for the progress and prosperity of our communities. Let us work together to build a brighter future for all Nigerians" the statement added.

Northern Integrity Security Forum Tackles Sule Lamido Over Calls For Matawalle's Removal

By Editor

The Northern Integrity and Security Forum (NISF) has described recent remarks made by former Foreign Affairs Minister and Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, calling for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence,  Bello Mohammed Matawalle as an unfortunate.

According to the security forum, such call coming amid the troubling climate surrounding the abduction of the Emir of Gobir of Gatawa District in Sokoto state, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa and his son is not only ill-informed but also irresponsible, unstatesmanlike and alarmingly disingenuous.

The statements from the forum which was signed by the Chairman Tijjani Auwalu said, it was crucial to affirm that while the situation in Sokoto and other parts of Northern Nigeria is of utmost concern, the challenges faced are national in scale, engulfing various facets of our society—from urban centers to rural localities. 

It stressed that Lamido's attempt to limit Matawalle's responsibilities solely to Sokoto or the North is a gross misrepresentation of the reality that security is an ongoing national issue, requiring collective efforts and shared accountability across government tiers.

"The timing and target of Lamido's critique raise significant questions regarding his underlying motives. It is disconcerting that Lamido chose to single out Matawalle, a junior minister, while overlooking Badaru Abubakar, the senior Defence Minister, who coincidentally shares the same home state of Jigawa with Lamido. 

"We must ask: why direct unrelenting attacks towards a loyal ally of President Tinubu, while seemingly absolving a senior counterpart? Such selective criticism indicates a strategic maneuver aimed at undermining the political framework supporting our President, rather than a genuine concern for the nation's security.

"Moreover, the contrasting nature of Lamido's recent expressions of empathy for a singular Emir in captivity stands in stark contradiction to his silence throughout the years of suffering endured by ordinary Zamfara communities and other ordinary Nigerians". 

The forum noted that thousands have fallen victim to heinous acts of abduction, torture, extortion, and displacement over the past two decades and the absence of Lamido's voice in addressing these widespread tragedies all this while raises concerns about his commitment to empathy and meaningful advocacy for the Nigerian people.

This singular attack on Matawalle cannot be detached from the backdrop of emerging investigations of Bashir Hadejiya, linked to serious criminal activities including, terrorism sponsorship, gun running, and cross border crimes, the.forum stated. 

"The growing panic among certain political figures, including those aligned with Lamido, reflects a desperate attempt to destabilize the current administration as these investigations unfold. NISF expects that as this inquiry progresses, more personalities with dubious affiliations will be brought to light, further revealing the motivations behind such orchestrated smear campaigns.

"It bears noting that the relentless criticism directed at Matawalle is indicative of a concerted effort by a faction of inconsequential northern politicians—of which Lamido is a prominent member—to weaken the integrity and growing influence of President Tinubu in the North".

NISF posited that Matawalle's unwavering allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embodies the support necessary for a resilient governance and political structure. Hence, these attacks serve as a testament to Matawalle's reliability and dependability, which must be subdued if these politicians wish to see President Tinubu rendered vulnerable.

"We solemnly caution that in the fullness of time, the extent of involvement of several figures  in the crimes of Bashir Hadejiya would be exposed. The ongoing investigation into Bashir Hadejiya's criminal activities will inevitably blow open the cover of those whose actions contradict their public personas".

The forum therefore urged President Tinubu to remain steadfast and resolute against attempts to incite division within his solid support base in the North, adding that the loyalty embodied by figures such as Minister Matawalle, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, is indispensable to the integrity of the current administration and national security.

"The NISF stands firm in our commitment to supporting our President's efforts of fortifying the Northern region's security and integrity. We shall not waver in promoting a united front against any efforts to undermine our collective strength in pursuing a safer and more prosperous Nigeria" the statement added.

World Humanitarian/ Int'l Youth Day: Halimat Tejuosho Empowers 600 Nigerian Youths In Kaduna

By Editor

Philanthropist, Hajiya Halimat Tejuosho Adenike through the QAT Foundation has empowered not fewer than 600 Nigerian youths in Kaduna state.

The empowerment cuts across the six geopolitical Zones of the country, with the aim to encouraging youths with innovative skills of the 21st century, both for their livelihoods support and for self reliance.

The beneficiaries, hundred from each of the six Nigerian geopolitical Zones totalling six hundred, were empowered with Sewing machines, grinding engine, Hair dryer, among other items.

Speaking at the one day event, in Kaduna on Monday, Hajiya Halimat, who is the CEO of QAT Foundation said that the event is to commemorate the 2024 world humanitarian/ International Youths' Day, tagged “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development, and equally the World Humanitarian Day, “The time is now to Act for Humanity and Protect Humanity.”

She disclosed that the foundation had trained the participants in their different skills acquisition, while noting that skills remain the most valuable asset of the human society.

Calling on well meaning Nigerians to contribute their quota to national development, Tejuosho noted that government cannot do everything alone without collaboration from relevant stakeholders in the society.

She condemned the recent nationwide protests across the country, an act that she lamented was perpetrated by youths, void of patriotism to destroy their own country rather than building it.

She called on Nigerian youths to exercise patience with the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led administration who is doing everything humanly possible to give everybody the Nigeria of their dreams, particularly the youths, whom she affirmed that they remained the leaders of tomorrow.

Citing some of the interventions of the president Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led administration in one year, Adenike said that the administration of Tinubu has shown its commitment to the youth by setting up the student loan scheme, adding that 45.6billion Naira has already been processed for payment to students and their respective institutions.

The philanthropist equally stated that “more than N570 billion has been released to the 36 states to expand livelihood support to their citizens, while 600,000 nano-businesses have benefitted from the government's nano-grants. An additional 400,000 more nano-bussinesses are expected to benefit.

“On the other hand, 75,000 beneficiaries have been processed to receive the Tinubu's N1million Micro and Small Business single-digit interest loans,  starting this month. The APC government has also built 10 MSME hubs within the past year, created 240,000 jobs through them and 5 more hubs are in progress which will be ready by October this year.”

In his presentation, the Guest Speaker, Dr. Mohammed Sule from the University of Jos, Plateau state while speaking on the theme of event, “Digital Skills For Green Entrepreneurship” linked contemporary challenges of Nigerian youths with over dependency as a result of fear to take risk.

He avered that every business is associated with risk, adding that the greatest risk in life is to take no risk at all.

"Digital skills are essential for green entrepreneurs to succeed in today's digital economy. By acquiring these skills, entrepreneurs can develop sustainable businesses that thrive online and offline, contributing to a more environmentally conscious future.

“The fear of failure has discouraged not just youth but the larger society from venturing into one business or the other. Unknown to them that such action is the greatest enemy of success.” Dr. Sule said.

He urged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the equipments and give the skills all it takes to profit both themselves and the larger society.

One of the beneficiaries, Blessing Sunday who applauded the gesture of QAT Foundation said “I am the most happiest person today because initially when I told my friend that I am undergoing this program, some of them laughed at me thinking that it was a scam. I cannot thank the NGO enough, I pray that God will continue to bless them more.” she said 

Asked on whether she will sell it as the case of some beneficiaries, Blessing said, “I am a beneficiary of Sewing machine and I have learned fashion design,so why will I sell it. I will not sell it instead I will use it to buy more machines to enlarge myself based on the lecture we have received today.” she added.

Trans-border suspect: Ohanaeze youths hail security agencies’ collaboration

By editor 

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has hailed the collaborative efforts of the Nigerian security forces.

The Igbo group spoke in reaction to the recent arrest of A Nigerian who specialises in money laundering and other transnational crimes.

It could be recalled that the man, whose name was given as one Bashir Hadejiya, was arrested by the Nigeria police following intelligence reports on smuggling large catches of weapons along with large bars of gold believed to have been stolen from the Central Bank of Libya.

He was also linked to the recent EndBadGovernance protest, and confessed to sponsoring a large number of youths who participated in the just concluded #EndBadGovernance Protests in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa and Abuja.

Reacting through a statement made available to journalists, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike said the arrest was the fruit of the deep collaboration among the security agencies.

Nnabuike, who said the arrest was of great concern, stressed that, “while we commend the police for the feat, we must state that no stone should be left un-turned in unearthing those behind this trans-border criminal activities.

“His arrest is no doubt an eloquent testimony to the fruitful collaboration and capacity of the Nigerian security forces, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu,  Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who have all shown serious commitment to restore security across the country.

“We must, however, note that his confession is mind boggling and should not be treated with kid’s gloves. This is a great opportunity to unravel the cabal that has been destabilizing the country, especially the North, security wise.

“There is no doubt that Bashir Hadeja is not alone; just as he confessed, this is a trans-border crime, and they have a ring. Their activities constitute a serious threat to the existence of Nigeria and this is why every effort must be made to identify his collaborators. When they are found, they must be brought to book.

“This also confirms our earlier fears when we kicked against the EndBadGovernance protest. We knew that as good as the intentions may sound, there were undercurrent dealings which could jeopardise the overall interest of the country. Our fears were justified considering the wanton destruction of properties, especially across the Northern part of the country. Hadeja’s confessional statement has also buttressed the fears.

“Having said this, our utmost fear right now lies with Hadejiya's confessions, particularly regarding his connections to influential figures in the political sphere, including allegations linking him to a former Director of the Department of State Security Service (DSS). This should worry every patriotic Nigerian.

“It is imperative to urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to be mindful of some elements who are hell bent on discrediting his government and all those around him. The president should be watchful of such mischief makers who do not mean well for his government but are agents of destabilization.

“On our part, we urge the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu,  and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, to continue with their collaborative efforts, which is bearing visible fruits. They should not be distracted by enemies of state, who hide under some faceless names and groups to disparage the efforts of the government and the security agencies.

“As we urge Nigerians to be more vigilant, we look forward to a comprehensive investigation of Hadejiya and his collaborators. There should be no sacred cow."