Successes Against Insecurity In N'West States Under Matawalle Commendable Says AYCF

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended the recent strides made in the fight against banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region, particularly under the strategic leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum Yerima Shettima says, in a period marked by considerable fear and violence, largely instigated by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla, the forum recognizes the overwhelming response orchestrated by the current administration, reflecting a renewed commitment to restoring peace and security to our communities.

He noted that in recent months, the Northwest has been besieged by a terrifying surge in banditry, casting a pall of insecurity that has affected the daily lives of countless citizens, adding that  Turji’s relentless campaign of terror, which has involved extorting protection levies and inflicting grievous harm on innocent civilians, underscores a critical moment in our national discourse on security.

"It is, therefore, commendable that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken decisive action by mandating Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed at dismantling Turji's criminal enterprise.

"This redirection in military strategy is not merely a tactical maneuver but a vital step towards reclaiming the dignity and safety of our people. The military's recent engagement with bandits has signified a departure from previous operations, showcasing a newfound tenacity reminiscent of earlier engagements when the military acted without the reticence brought on by media scrutiny". 

AYCF further said, under Matawalle’s guidance, the troops have risen to the occasion, confronting banditry not as faceless adversaries but as defenders of honor tasked with the noble duty to restore peace within our borders.

The AYCF said it firmly believes that the government's renewed dedication to total disarmament, demobilization, and reconstruction of affected areas is both timely and critical. The proactive measures taken thus far have already resulted in the displacement of bandit elements, an encouraging indication of the military's resolve, Shettima said.

"We urge the troops to maintain this momentum and ensure the total eradication and capture of all criminal elements in the region. We have unfaltering confidence in Minister Matawalle's ability to guide our military forces to victory against the scourge of banditry.

"It is crucial, however, to heed the insights of military leaders such as General Christopher Musa, who remind us that banditry should not be viewed merely as the actions of deranged individuals. This mindset oversimplifies a multifaceted crisis and fails to address the systemic issues that underlie banditry.

"While our military's concerted efforts can suppress bandit activities in the short term, sustainable peace in the North-West requires comprehensive solutions that encompass socio-economic development and community engagement—an approach equally as vital as military intervention.

"The emergence of banditry in our region is symptomatic of years of neglect, marginalization, and limited access to resources. As such, President Tinubu’s military mobilization efforts should not stand in isolation; they must be accompanied by robust strategies aimed at addressing the socio-economic disparities that have contributed to this vicious cycle of violence. 

"By investing in programs that empower local communities and restore faith in governance, we can mitigate the conditions that allow banditry to thrive.

While we commend the significant strides made in the military's fight against Bello Turji and his cohorts, we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration to adopt a holistic approach that intertwines military action with equitable socio-economic development. 

"Together, these efforts will pave the way for sustainable peace and security in Nigeria’s Northwest region, ensuring that our communities flourish rather than merely survive in the shadow of violence".

The Forum said it stands ready to support these initiatives and is committed to fostering dialogue, peace, and development within our communities.

NAN Challenges Asada's Allegations Against Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle

By Editor

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) categorically rejects the recent allegations made by Sokoto cleric Mallam Bello Asada regarding Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

 In a video uploaded by Zagazola, a renowned Counter Insurgency Expert in the Lake Chad, West Africa region, Asada claimed that several notorious bandit leaders, including Sububu, Ada Allero, and Bello Turji, were provided with Hilux vehicles by the minister. 

NAN maintains that these claims are misleading, fabricated, and entirely untrue.

NAN deeply regrets the cleric's unfounded criticisms of the government's unwavering efforts to apprehend bandit leader Bello Turji. The network asserts that the N20 million bounty placed on Turji is a legitimate and serious initiative to combat banditry in the region and should not be dismissed lightly. 

Asada's assertion that Minister Matawalle has full awareness of Turji’s whereabouts and possesses personal knowledge of him is not only unfounded but also libelous, slanderous, and provocative. 

NAN firmly believes that such statements undermine the ongoing efforts of government officials and security agencies dedicated to restoring peace and order in affected areas.

In light of the current security challenges facing the nation, NAN advises Mallam Asada to reclaim his statesmanship by either engaging in active party politics or maintaining a dignified silence to allow the government and security forces to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

The Northern Awareness Network stands with the government in its fight against banditry and urges all stakeholders to work collectively towards ensuring the safety and security of our communities.

Northern Awareness Network Endorses Adeola Ajayi as New Director General of DSS

By Editor 

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) is proud to announce its endorsement of Adeola Ajayi as the recently appointed Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) by President Bola Tinubu.

 In a compelling statement delivered by its chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the NAN expressed its firm belief that Ajayi’s leadership will usher in a transformative approach to national security and stability in Nigeria.

The NAN's endorsement is based on Ajayi's impressive track record, especially his successful interventions in states beset by insecurity including Kogi, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, and Plateau. His proactive and effective measures in these areas have notably mitigated security threats and fostered environments conducive to communal harmony. 

Ajayi’s decisive actions during the crises in Bauchi and Plateau States have resulted in significant drops in violent incidents, allowing citizens to reclaim a sense of safety. Moreover, his strategic operations in Kogi, leading to the neutralization of the insurgent group Ansaru, demonstrate his capability and unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the nation.

Amidst the ongoing security challenges posed by terrorism, banditry, and internal unrest affecting Nigeria, the NAN regards Ajayi’s appointment as a strategic and timely decision by President Tinubu. 

The organization anticipates that Ajayi’s leadership will embody a more covert and intelligence-driven approach, enhancing the operational effectiveness of the DSS. This vision aligns seamlessly with the NAN’s advocacy for discretion and strategic silence in sensitive security matters, which they believe is critical for elevating the agency's responsiveness to emerging threats.

The NAN calls upon all stakeholders to rally behind Ajayi, urging citizens across Nigeria to exhibit patience, cooperation, and understanding as he embarks on his crucial mandate. They emphasize that this collaborative spirit is vital in establishing an enabling environment that will empower Ajayi to fulfill his vision for a secure and stable nation. Recognizing the specific security challenges faced in the North— a region disproportionately affected by insecurity in recent years — NAN remains optimistic that Ajayi’s deep-rooted understanding of these issues will aid in restoring peace and order throughout the area.

Acknowledging the myriad challenges that lie ahead, the NAN believes that exemplary leadership characterized by integrity, professionalism, and community engagement possesses the potential to positively transform Nigeria’s security landscape. Ajayi’s rise to the role of DG of the DSS is a significant milestone towards realizing the collective aspiration for security and peace, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

As the nation transitions into a new phase of security strategies under Ajayi’s leadership, the NAN stands ready to support his efforts in reinforcing public confidence in the state security apparatus. The coming months are pivotal for assessing the impact of his strategies on national security.

The NAN encourages all Nigerians to unite in support of Adeola Ajayi, fostering a unified front against the ongoing challenges of insecurity and its profound implications for the future of our country.

Arewa Groups Applauds Appointment Of Ajayi As DG DSS

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has hailed the appointment of the new Director General (DG) of the Department of State Services (DSS) Adeola Ajayi by President Bola Tinubu.

In a statements separately issued by Yerima Shettima, the President General of the AYCF and Salihu Suleiman Chairman of NAN, the organizations articulated its enthusiastic endorsement of Ajayi’s ascension to this pivotal role, emphasizing the promise of a refreshed approach to national security and stability under his leadership. 

The Arewa groups endorsement according to Shettima and Suleiman is rooted in Ajayi's impressive track record and tangible achievements in various states, including Kogi, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, and Plateau, stressing that His tenure in these regions has been characterized by notable successes in mitigating insecurity and restoring public safety, adding that his swift response to the security challenges in Bauchi and Plateau resulted in a significant decline in violent incidents, allowing for an atmosphere of safety that the populace has since enjoyed.

The groups whose statements are corroborative further said, Ajayi's intervention in Kogi led to the neutralization of the insurgent group Ansaru, a feat that speaks volumes about his capability and commitment to safeguarding the nation.

In the current climate, where security challenges such as terrorism, banditry, and community unrest continue to plague Nigeria, the group lauds Ajayi's appointment as a timely and strategic move by President Bola Tinubu.

The groups envisioned that Ajayi's leadership style will prioritize a more covert and intelligent approach to intelligence gathering and operational deployment within the DSS. 

"This aligns with the AYCF’s, NAN call for an emphasis on discretion and strategic silence regarding sensitive security matters, a method they believe could significantly enhance the overall effectiveness of the agency.

Expressing their optimism, the AYCF and NAN underscores the necessity for the collective support of all stakeholders, including the general public, in facilitating Ajayi's mandate. They advocated for patience, cooperation, and understanding from citizens as he navigates the complex terrain of national security.This collaborative spirit, they argue, is essential in creating a conducive environment for him to implement his vision for a secure Nigeria.

They further acknowledged the distinct challenges faced by the North, which has been disproportionately affected by insecurity in recent years, adding that as custodians of the interests of Northern youth, they are particularly hopeful that Ajayi's deep understanding of these issues, along with his unprecedented antecedents, will enable him to restore peace and order across the region. 

They believed that with the right implementation of strategies, reinforced by community engagement and trust, it is possible to turn the tide against the current security threats.

They also recognized that the path to security is fraught with challenges but believes that with exemplary leadership grounded in integrity, professionalism, and community outreach, the DSS can significantly improve the security landscape of Nigeria. 

AYCF 's and NAN enthusiastic reception of  Ajayi as the new DG of the DSS serves as a testament to the collective aspiration for security and peace within Nigeria, particularly in the North. 

"The coming months will be critical in evaluating the impact of his leadership on national security dynamics, but the AYCF stands ready to support the new DG in his efforts to restore order and confidence in the state security apparatus. 

Ultimately, the groups encouraged all Nigerians to rally behind him, fostering a unified front against insecurity and its disturbing implications for the nation's future.

ENDS

Fuel Hike: Northern Groups Issues Ultimatum To Kyari, Calls For Lokpobiri's Resignation

By Editor

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with over 500 Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) and support groups support groups has issues 11 days ultimatum to the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mele Kolo Kyari to provide credible explanations to Nigerians reason for the astronomical increase in the price of fuel or face the wrath of Nigerian youths.

In the same vein, the group has called for the immediate resignation of the Minister of Petroleum  resources (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri for playing with the sensitivity of Nigerians.

Also, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been urged to urgently address the situation, stressing that Nigerians are suffocating and it is against the.renewed agenda he promised Nigerians, adding that he must come clean on the current challenges.

Speaker of the AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul DanBature said, the call for explanation has become necessary as the present increase in the price of petrol has further put untold hardship on Nigerians.

Danbature recalled that only recently, the group and CSOs held a solidarity rally in support of President Tinubu and urged him to disregard calls for the Sack of Kyari but that the current situation requires that Kyari must explain to Nigerians in an unequivocal terms.

He emphasized that the survival of Nigerians is threatened as the sudden increase in fuel price is nothing but another call for a protest to demand for its reversal.

" We are issuing 11 days ultimatum to Mele Kyari to give credible explanations to Nigerians why the increase in the pump price of petrol.

" We are also calling for the immediate resignation of the Minister of Petroleum (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri for his failure to handle the sector.

" We are also calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to come clean on his renewed agenda because Nigerians are suffocating and it requires urgent attention to avoid consequential effects" he stated 

ENDS

Fuel Hike: Don't Take Nigerians' Patience for Granted, Arewa Youths Warn FG

 

By editor

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has cautioned the Federal Government against taking Nigerians for granted following the recent sharp increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.

In a statement, AYCF President-General Yerima Shettima said the current situation suggests that the government may have lost touch with the realities faced by Nigerians.

Shettima expressed disappointment that the same government, which had urged citizens to avoid protests by promising to improve their lives, has now imposed further hardship.

"Even the blind can feel the hardship, and the deaf can hear the cries of poverty and hunger across the country. To add more pressure on Nigerians is highly insensitive and must be addressed," Shettima said.

He added that food prices are now beyond the reach of ordinary Nigerians, and the recent minimum wage increase to N70,000 is inadequate to meet the basic needs of one person, let alone a family. "This increase can barely cover transportation costs to work for a month," he said.

Shettima called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration to reconsider its approach, urging the government to allow Nigerians to breathe. He warned that the growing anger and frustration among Nigerians could lead to unpredictable consequences.

"The government’s primary responsibility is the welfare of its citizens. The recent fuel price hike has caused a ripple effect, raising the cost of food, transportation, and other essentials," he said.

Shettima urged the Federal Government to prioritize the welfare of the people and take swift action to prevent potential unrest.

ASM to Honour 50 African Leaders for Contributions to Continent’s Growth In Tech, Health, Others

By Editor

The African Solidarity Movement (ASM), in collaboration with the Oodua Youth Parliament (OYP), is set to host a four-day summit in Ghana and Ivory Coast to honor 50 successful Africans for their significant contributions to youth development across the continent, particularly in the fields of technology, Health, empowerment, entrepreneurship, scholarship, and climate change.

The honorees, all under 50 years of age, hail from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Benin Republic, and Togo.

In a statement, the Secretary-General of ASM, AbdulMajeed Oladimeji Oyeniyi, emphasized that the summit would provide a platform for young Africans to learn, network, and exchange ideas on issues affecting the continent. 

He highlighted the event’s significance in advancing Africa's position on the global stage noting that,“the event will bring together young people, policymakers, development partners, and international organizations to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing African youth and to develop innovative solutions to address these challenges,” Oyeniyi said.

Established in 2022 with a mission to champion the growth and development of African youth, ASM on 18th of December 2023 held elections for its interim executive members on December 18, 2023. 

The elected leadership includes Amb. Amad Kouassi from Ivory Coast as President, Amb. Kojo Addo from Ghana as Vice President, and Amb. AbdulMajeed Oladimeji Oyeniyi from Nigeria as Secretary-General. Lethabo Omari from South Africa serves as Financial Secretary, while Emmanuel Kossi from Togo heads Inter-Government Intervention.

Oyeniyi, however, affirmed ASM's commitment to promoting African heritage and culture on a global scale, stating that the movement would continue to collaborate with its partners to advance the continent's development and ensure the welfare of its youth.