Gov. Idris condoles people of Mera over attack

The Kebbi State Governor, His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has condolled with people of Mera in Augie Local Government Area of the state over an attack on the community by unknown gunmen. 

In a condolence message on Saturday, the governor described the incident as ugly and very unfortunate.

"On behalf of Kebbi State Government, we wish to extend our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the Emir of Argungu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Sama'ila Muhammadu-Mera as well as the people of Mera.

"We pray for the repose souls of the deceased and urge the family to take heart and accept the will of God Almighty in good faith," he said.

While assuring that government was doing everything possible through the security agencies to bring an end to crime and criminality across the state, the governor urged people to cooperate with security personnel by supplying them with credible intelligence.

NAN Condemns Zamfara Government's Attempt to Deflect Responsibility for Stranded Students

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) vehemently condemns the recent statement by the Zamfara State government blaming former Governor Bello Matawalle for the plight of 93 stranded students in Cyprus.

This report, alleging that the students' situation is due to unpaid fees and poor documentation, is a blatant fabrication and a cynical attempt by the current administration of Dauda Lawal to deflect responsibility for its own failures. 

Government, by its very nature, is a matter of continuity.  The noble initiative of providing educational opportunities for Zamfara's youth through scholarships, a hallmark of the Matawalle administration, should be celebrated, not undermined by cheap political opportunism.  

A statement by the Chairman of NAN Salihu Suleiman averred that, to blame the previous administration for the present government's inability to fulfill its obligations to these students is not only disingenuous but also deeply irresponsible.

"The core of the issue lies in the current government's lack of capacity and will to see the scholarship program through.  If there were genuine concerns about documentation or fee payment, why were the students allowed to travel to Cyprus in the first place?  

"Furthermore, if the government was genuinely concerned about the students' welfare, would they have remained silent for months while the crisis unfolded, only to emerge with a fabricated narrative aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the previous administration? 

"This blatant attempt to manipulate public opinion through false accusations is a clear indication of the current administration's incompetence and lack of foresight.  It is not difficult to discern that this political maneuvering is simply a desperate attempt to distract from the current government's failures in managing the state's affairs".

The group stated also that instead of seeking to deflect blame and discredit the previous administration, Governor Lawal should focused on addressing the immediate needs of the stranded students which includes facilitating their return to Nigeria, ensuring their safety and well-being, and exploring options to help them continue their education, either in Nigeria or through alternative scholarship programs.  

"The government has a responsibility to these young people, who were encouraged to pursue their dreams through a program initiated by the previous administration.

"The current administration must be held accountable for its lack of leadership and its failure to uphold the legacy of the scholarship program.  NAN urges the Zamfara State government to immediately take concrete steps to address the plight of these stranded students and to desist from engaging in misleading public pronouncements". 

NAN affirm their stand in solidarity with the students and their families, and call on the government to demonstrate its commitment to their welfare and educational aspirations, adding that the current administration must move beyond political point-scoring and focus on serving the needs of the people, not on tarnishing the legacy of its predecessors.

"The Zamfara State government has a moral obligation to ensure these students receive the support and opportunities they deserve, and NAN will continue to hold them accountable for their actions".

ENDS

Coalition of Civil Society Organization Writes Senate Akpabio

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CCSOs) of Nigeria in a letter to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio over the recent calls by the so called APC Solidarity Forum calling for the resignation of Alhaji Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

The coalition said such call are unjustified and potentially harmful to the nation's economy and even democracy, where the thirst for utilizing the best brains for nation-building is the key.

"It is needless to point out that under Alh. Kyari's leadership, NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones, including the facilitation of independent power projects, road maintenance, and significant blockage of revenue leakages, resulting in increased revenue for Nigeria. 

"These accomplishments demonstrate his exceptional leadership and commitment to Nigeria's progress".

The Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL)

Ambassador Abdul DanBature  who signed the letter onbehalf of the coalition urged the Senate President to take immediate action to address the situation, stressing that the so called APC Solidarity Forum's actions appear to be driven by political motivations rather than genuine concerns for the well-being of the nation. 

"We believe it is essential to protect the integrity of our national institutions and prevent unwarranted interference in their operations.

"In light of this, we respectfully demand that you Condemn the so called APC Solidarity Forum's unwarranted attacks on Alh. Mele Kyari and the NNPC.

"Investigate the motivations behind these calls for resignation and take necessary measures to prevent further interference in the operations of the NNPC".

The group also requested that the Senate President use his good office to ensure that the APC Solidarity Forum is held accountable for their actions and that the nation's interests are protected.

ENDS

Kano Forum Urges Northern Leaders to Emulate Senator Barau Jibrin’s Youth Empowerment Approach

The Concerned Kano Citizen Forum has called on northern leaders, including governors and prominent politicians, to adopt Senator Barau Jibrin’s youth empowerment strategy as a blueprint to address youth idleness and street life in the region. 

According to Salisu Haruna, spokesperson for the forum, Barau has implemented a model aimed at equipping northern youths with skills, education, and job opportunities that position them to compete with their counterparts nationwide.

The forum praised Barau’s strategic focus on youth development, emphasizing his initiatives that sponsor northern youths for advanced studies and professional training. For example, Barau has sent numerous young Nigerians to study in high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, robotic science, and cyber forensic abroad, aiming to develop a pool of highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the region’s growth upon their return. 

The forum is optimistic that Barau’s efforts will yield significant results in the coming years, not only in Kano but throughout northern Nigeria.

Barau’s influence extends beyond education. He has supported legislation beneficial to the region, including the establishment of the Northwest Development Commission and institutions such as Federal Polytechnic Kabo, Federal University of Education Bichi, and Federal College of Education Jumare. 

Through his foundation, he has also provided scholarships to about 600 students from Kano State at Federal University Dutsin-ma in Katsina State, including 70 students who graduated with high honors and received full scholarships to pursue master’s degrees abroad.

Additionally, Barau has invested in youth engagement through the Barau Football Academy, which aims to foster a balanced development of young individuals by providing not only educational opportunities but also platforms for physical growth and discipline through sports.

The forum urged other northern leaders to consider adopting Barau’s comprehensive approach to youth empowerment, arguing that a united effort across the region could provide northern youths with better opportunities and a sense of direction. 

According to the forum, such an approach could reduce youth idleness, support regional economic progress, and foster a generation of skilled, purpose-driven young leaders.

#Endbadgovernance Protest : Arrest, Detention,Trial Of Minors Unacceptable- President AYCF

The President General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Yerima Shettima has condemned in strong terms the arrest, detention of children below the age of 18 for over 90 days, and subsequent arrangements in court for trial over alleged treason because they participated in the #Endbadgovernance protest. 

The President General described the actions of the government as not acceptable in the face of justice to the rights of children.

According to him, the children who appeared malnourished and frailed gave credence to their protest against hunger, and they should not be used as scapegoats by the government. 

He urged the Federal Government to arrest hunger and hardship in the land, not children legitimately asking for and end to hunger and suffering. 

The President General said it is an embarrassment to the international community, seeing Nigeria clamping down on her own children, who should rather be in school and build a future for our country. 

"Such treatment of  harmless,  impoverished, malnourished or undernourished minors from northern Nigerian origin is not  acceptable and the government should stop any further trial of.these minors" he stressed.

ENDS.

AbdulHamid Umar Muh’d urges opposition to join Barau in transforming kano

The All Progressives Congress (APC) youth leader from the Northwest, AbdulHamid Umar Muh’d, has urged opposition groups in Kano to support Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, in his efforts to advance Kano’s development. 

Muh’d emphasized that the senator’s dedication to promoting Kano and strengthening the APC should not be misinterpreted as selfishness and instead, he called on critics to focus on joining Senator Barau’s mission to improve Kano State.

“Rather than cast aspersions, people should join hands with Barau to make Kano greater. His actions are a testament to his commitment to bringing Kano into the spotlight and are entirely free from sentiment,” Umar said. 

He noted that Senator Barau’s approach, particularly in championing projects that boost infrastructure and attract talented youth into the APC, shows his genuine intent to enhance Kano’s future.

Muh’d further highlighted some of Senator Barau’s key initiatives over the past two years, including establishing a Federal University of Education in Bichi, securing a Federal Polytechnic in Kabo, and advocating for the North West Development Commission headquarters in Kano. 

According to him, these achievements, along with Barau’s sponsorship of Kano’s youth for advanced studies in Artificial Intelligence abroad, are substantial contributions that focus on positioning Kano as a hub of opportunity and development.

The  APC youth leader however affirmed that, “Senator Barau’s influence is felt statewide, as he is working tirelessly to unify party members and ensure the APC’s resilience. His achievements, though aimed at strengthening the party, are fundamentally about uplifting Kano and preparing it for a prosperous future.”

Barau Jibrin: The Pillar of the 10th Senate

By Abdulhamid Umar Mohammed, APC Youth Leader Northwest

The emergence of the leadership in the 10th Senate, following the internal elections of the National Assembly, clearly highlighted the respect and support that Senator Barau Jibrin enjoys among his colleagues. Known for his integrity, dedication, and commitment to national unity, Barau’s popularity and strong backing were evident as senators across the political spectrum rallied around him. His decision to assume the role of Deputy Senate President, supporting Senate President Godswill Akpabio, reflects a strategic move to balance regional representation, ensuring fair inclusion across Nigeria’s diverse regions.

Barau’s influence is particularly vital, as he has become a respected figure, representing not just the interests of his constituency but also those of the entire northern region. His reputation for integrity has allowed him to bridge gaps, fostering unity and creating a strong foundation of trust among senators from the six geopolitical zones. His standing within the Senate has helped ensure a more stable and cooperative legislative process.

It’s widely believed that if not for Barau’s leadership and commitment to collective progress, the Senate could have faced intense internal challenges, potentially hindering its effectiveness. Instead, his presence as Deputy Senate President has fostered an environment of mutual respect, allowing the parliament to focus on the pressing issues facing Nigeria.

Barau Jibrin’s leadership continues to be instrumental, guiding the Senate with a commitment to equity, balance, and national interest. As the 10th Senate progresses, Barau’s role as a pillar within the Assembly will likely remain a driving force, promoting unity and stability across the Nigerian legislative landscape.