AJIP Declares Unwavering Support For Matawalle Amid Baseless Calls For His Removal

The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace (AJIP) said it stands resolutely against the ongoing, unfounded calls for the removal of Bello Matawalle from his esteemed position as Minister of Defence.

The group viewed such plan as a misguided attempts, allegedly bankrolled by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, are not only a disservice to the progress we have made in the fight against insecurity but also a blatant attempt to undermine the integrity of our national leadership and the unity of the North.

A statement issued by the group and signed by the.direvtor general Musa Danbaki, said it is imperative to recognize that the recent political maneuvers by Governor Lawal are rooted in desperation. 

"As a leader who has consistently aligned himself with bandit leaders, Lawal's efforts to discredit Minister Matawalle stem from a fear of exposure. Matawalle has been a stalwart advocate for peace and security in our region, tirelessly working to dismantle the networks of violence that have plagued our communities. 

"His commitment to transparency and accountability threatens the very foundations of Lawal’s alliances, compelling the Governor to seek distractions through baseless allegations against a man who has dedicated his life to the service of our nation".

The AJIP said it firmly believe that these calls for Matawalle's removal are not merely personal attacks; they are part of a broader political strategy to destabilize the support structure for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 2027 re-election campaign. 

By targeting Matawalle, who has emerged as a key pillar of support for the President in the North, detractors aim to weaken the administration's efforts to foster stability and growth in the region. We must not allow such divisive tactics to succeed, the group stated.

According to the group, Minister Matawalle has demonstrated unwavering dedication to his role, implementing policies that have significantly improved the security landscape in Nigeria, adding that  under his stewardship, we have witnessed a concerted effort to engage communities, empower local leaders, and create sustainable pathways to peace. 

"His initiatives have not only aimed to combat banditry but also to address the socio-economic factors that fuel unrest. It is this comprehensive approach that has earned him the respect and admiration of many, both within and outside the region.

"As we reflect on the current political climate, it is crucial to reaffirm our solidarity with President Tinubu and the administration’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria. The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace stands united in our belief that a cohesive and supportive leadership is essential for navigating the challenges we face. We recognize that the path to peace is fraught with obstacles, but it is only through unity and collaboration that we can overcome them.

"In light of these circumstances, we call upon all stakeholders to reject the divisive rhetoric being propagated by those who seek to undermine our collective progress. It is vital that we focus on fostering dialogue, supporting our leaders, and working together to build a future that is free from the shadows of violence and insecurity".

The strength of our region lies in our ability to unite against common threats, and we must not allow personal vendettas to distract us from the greater good, the statement added.

"The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace extends our unwavering support to Minister Bello Matawalle and commends him for his tireless efforts to bring about lasting change. We urge the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and to stand firm in their support for leaders who prioritize the welfare of our communities over personal ambitions. Together, we can forge a path toward a more secure and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

"We call on the citizens of Zamfara State and the broader Northern region to rally behind Minister Matawalle and reject the baseless narratives being spun by those with ulterior motives. Let us stand together in solidarity with President Tinubu, reaffirming our commitment to peace, security, and unity in the face of adversity".

ENDS.

Northern Group Welcomes Yakubu’s Nomination as Ambassador

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the nomination of former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, as Nigeria’s ambassador to an unspecified international mission, describing the development as a boost to the nation’s diplomatic profile.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja and signed by its Chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group said the nomination was a recognition of Yakubu’s “distinguished record of public service” and his “vast experience in global affairs,” which it argued would be invaluable in strengthening Nigeria’s engagement on the international stage.

Sulaiman noted that the former INEC chairman had earned national and international respect during his stewardship at the electoral body, where he championed reforms aimed at improving electoral transparency and deepening democratic processes.

He dismissed concerns raised in some quarters that Yakubu’s new appointment could compromise the independence of INEC, insisting such fears were “misguided and reckless.”

According to him, the neutrality of INEC is anchored on law, institutional safeguards, and multilayered oversight mechanisms—not on the post-service career of any individual.

“INEC’s integrity is not tied to the personal trajectory of any former official,” Sulaiman said. “It is a system strengthened by reforms since 2010, monitored by political parties, civil society organisations, and the media. Democracy rests on institutions, not personalities.”

The group further highlighted Yakubu’s career under four successive presidents—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—as evidence of his professionalism and non-partisan disposition.

It recalled that as Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) between 2007 and 2012, Yakubu initiated reforms that continue to shape the nation’s tertiary education sector. It also pointed to innovations introduced under his leadership during the 2023 general elections, which it said enabled opposition parties to record their highest number of elective positions in the country’s political history.

The Northern Awareness Network urged Nigerians to support the nomination, adding that effective diplomacy required individuals with proven administrative competence and an understanding of Nigeria’s governance architecture.

Sulaiman stressed that rather than question Yakubu’s nomination, Nigerians should focus on strengthening national institutions and reinforcing accountability across all sectors.

“This appointment is an opportunity to present Nigeria’s democratic values to the world with credibility,” he added. “We call on Nigerians to rally behind this development and remain committed to building strong, resilient institutions.”

The statement concluded with the group expressing confidence that Professor Yakubu would bring his “wealth of experience, integrity, and calm leadership” to the diplomatic assignment once confirmed.

ENDS

Appraising the Unwavering Security Achievements of the Only Teacher-Governor in Nigeria

Written by Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Kebbi State  

The Election of Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu and his subsequent swearing-in on May 29, 2023,did not only alter the political landscape of Kebbi State but also reshaped its political narrative, giving future generation a renewed sense of hope and direction.

His unprecedented achievements within just two years in office endeared him to the good people of Kebbi State, including the opposition. This explains why many opposition figures have voluntarily joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) a clear signal of the people desire to return him for a second term. 

It is evident to all that Kauran Gwandu has proven that, indeed, a teacher can make a remarkable difference. A teacher and a unionist to the core, Kaura demonstrate a commitment of good governance anchored on inclusive leadership.

As Governor and Chief Security Officer of Kebbi State, Kaura has over the last two years placed security as top of his administration priorities. Upon his assumption of office, several communities in the Southern part of the state had fled their ancestral homes and abandoned their farmlands due to persistent banditry and kidnapping. 

Since assumption of office in May 2023, Gov. Nasir Idris has worked tirelessly to improve the security situation across the state.He strengthen the state’s security apparatus, by closely collaborating with the military, police, and other security agencies, enhancing their operational capabilities

Determined to restore normalcy, the Governor put all machineries in place to ensure that displaced people  not only returned to their homes but could also cultivate their farmlands and sleep peacefully without fear.

In line with his security consciousness, Kaura procured over 90 Hilux vehicles and thousands of motorcycles, distributing them to security agencies operating in the state. He also improved welfare package of security personnel and provided assorted security gadgets, equipment, and logistics to support smooth operations across the state.

Benefiting security agencies include the Military, Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Department of Security Service (DSS), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as Vigilante Groups.

Furthermore, upon assumption of office, the Governor swiftly established a military bases in sone strategic areas of Southern Kebbi, particularly in Danko Wasagu and Sakaba Local Government Areas. These two Local Government Areas share borders with Zamfara and Niger States.

Reflecting on the recent abduction of 25 innocent schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area, the Governor acted decisively.

Demonstrating leadership and empathy, he immediately informed the President, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

In swift response , President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu to visit the affected community and ordered the  Minister of State for Defense, Bello Matawalle to relocate to Kebbi and coordinate the rescue operation of the abducted schoolgirls.

With the maximum support from the State Government, the Federal Government and security agencies, the girls were rescued unharmed eight days after their abduction. This success that would not have been possible without the Governor’s unwavering support and commitment 

The Governor’s efforts extend far  beyond security. His impact  cuts across agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, youth empowerment and human capital development.

In agriculture, Gov. Nasir Idris has  made remarkable progress, recognising the crucial role of the sector in the state’s economic development. He introduced a comprehensive agricultural strategy aimed at boosting food production, creating job opportunities, and improving farmers livelihoods.

One of the governor’s flagship initiatives is the ‘State Agricultural and Livestock Development Programme,’ is revitalizing the agricultural landscape. Under this initiative, government provided 500 trucks of fertiliser free of charge, distributed solar water pumps, chemicals (insecticides), seeds, and livestock feeds among other inputs. These efforts have already yielded visible results, including increased crop yields and improved food security across the state.

Speaking while reuniting the rescued students to their parents, the Governor said the governor thanked God Almighty for the successful rescue of the girls.

"I am the most happiest person because these girls were safely rescued unharmed. This is a happy day that we have been long awaiting, especially with what happened to our children at Maga school," he said.

The governor recalled that Mr President had directed the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), State Minister of Defense and all security chiefs to coordinate on how to successfully rescue the abducted children.

"These directive has no doubt yielded a positive result. We are here today celebrating an all encompassing success, we are very grateful to Mr President," he said.

The governor advised the freed girls not to be discouraged in the pursuit of western education, instead, they should strive hard to become knowledgeable.

The governor advised the people to do everything possible to ensure that the state live in peace, insisting that no development would be recorded in an atmosphere of rancho, acrimony or breach of peace

Idris described the harmonious relationship being existing between the three former governors of the state and the present governor as a sign progress and togetherness 

He observed that the situation was very rare in many states of the federation, saying, "you can see all the three former governors of Kebbi and the present governor sitting together to achieve a common goal."

Yakubu’s Nomination Won’t Affect INEC’s Independence — Northern Stakeholders

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has said the nomination of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, for an ambassadorial role will not compromise the commission’s independence or impartiality.

In a statement on Tuesday, the group’s convener, Yerima Shettima, said the concerns being raised in some quarters were “misguided and unnecessary,” insisting that INEC’s autonomy is protected by law and cannot be weakened by the post-service appointment of any of its officials.

Shettima said INEC operates under a system designed to withstand political pressure, adding that its neutrality is reinforced by legal frameworks, public scrutiny and the oversight of political parties, civil society and the media.

“The idea that Professor Yakubu’s nomination can undermine INEC is unfounded,” he said. “INEC’s independence is not tied to one individual. Its processes and safeguards are too strong to be influenced by a future appointment.”

He said critics of the nomination were ignoring the fact that since the 2010 electoral reforms, the commission has been strengthened to function above partisan interest. He said innovations under Yakubu helped deepen the electoral process, noting that the 2023 elections produced major wins for opposition parties across the country.

According to him, the debate has also failed to recognise Yakubu’s long service to the country. He said the INEC chairman had served under four different presidents—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—without questions over his professionalism.

“Professor Yakubu has built a reputation for service,” Shettima said. “His work at TETFUND transformed tertiary education funding, and his reforms at INEC strengthened transparency. His ambassadorial nomination does not negate these facts.”

The group urged political actors to focus on strengthening institutions rather than creating fears around the personal career trajectory of public officials.

“Democracy is built on strong institutions, not on the personalities of those who lead them,” Shettima said.

The NSCI urged political parties, civil society and the media to avoid narratives that could erode public confidence in INEC, saying the commission remains central to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

NAN Alerts Tinubu to Alleged Smear Campaign Against Matawalle

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in what it described as a coordinated smear campaign targeting the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, warning that the development could unsettle the North’s already fragile security and political climate.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group alleged that following last week’s resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, “certain political actors” had intensified efforts to discredit Matawalle for what it called “purely political motives.”

NAN claimed that the backlash was part of a broader scheme aimed at weakening President Tinubu’s support base in the North ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to Sulaiman, intelligence available to the organisation suggested that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, was linked to activities allegedly designed to mobilise unrest and fuel protests against the minister — a move it warned could escalate tensions in the North-West.

“These machinations are clearly designed to destabilise the region and erode the President’s strong support base,” the group said. “The President must be wary of anyone seeking to weaken his administration through orchestrated attacks on loyal allies like Matawalle.”

NAN also drew parallels between ongoing security anxieties in Kebbi State and the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction in Borno State, warning that any missteps in managing the current situation could trigger political ripple effects.

The group said Matawalle had demonstrated commitment to stabilising the North’s security landscape and had earned public trust across several communities.

“Northern Nigeria stands united in appreciating Matawalle’s efforts. His initiatives have yielded tangible results, and attempts to smear him are mere distractions from the real issues,” the statement added.

NAN urged President Tinubu to publicly reaffirm his confidence in Matawalle, describing the minister as “a key pillar” in sustaining political cohesion and public confidence in the region. It cautioned that sidelining him would amount to “a strategic miscalculation” ahead of the next general elections.

The group also called on the presidency to openly dismiss what it described as “baseless and politically motivated attacks,” insisting that the smear campaign was detrimental to both national security efforts and the stability of the North.

ENDS

Kebbi Govt Delegation in Bauchi for a Condolence Visit over the Death Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi

Kebbi Govt Delegation in Bauchi for a Condolence Visit over the Death Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi

Kebbi State Governor, Comerade Dr.Nasir Idris has sent  a powerful delegation to Bauchi State to  condole with the family of the  Late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi.

The delegations was lead by the Hon. commissioner for Religious Affairs Arc Muhammad Sani Aliyu, min and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Affairs Hon.Faruku Umar Ambursa alongside APC chieftain Alh Samaila Mabo and other Islamic leaders from the state.

conveying the Governor’s messages to the family, the Hon commissioner for Religious Affairs stated that the purpose of the visit was to condole with them over the demise of the Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi. He described the Sheikh’s death as a colossal loss to the family, Nigeria and the entire Muslim world.

He added that the late Sheikh was a great scholar who consistently preached peace, love and unity in society, noting that his vacuum cannot be replaced.

"I am here onbehalf of the Kebbi State Governor and the people of Kebbi State to express our sorrow over the passing of the  renowned Islamic scholar and spiritual icon, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, who died on Sunday.

"His death has  plunged Nigeria, Africa and the global Muslim community into mourning, with tributes pouring in for a man widely regarded as one of the most influential religious figures of his generation" he said.

Governor Idirs described sheikeh Dahiru Bauchi as “a guiding light, a father to the Ummah, a refuge for the troubled, and a voice of truth,” noting that his compassion and wisdom touched countless lives.

He therefore stated further that the passing of Sheikh is not just the loss of a revered scholar but “the fading of a rare, radiant star whose brilliance shaped generations.”

Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was celebrated for decades as one of the strongest pillars of faith, humility and modesty in the Muslim world.

His teachings, prayers and leadership provided comfort to families, direction to communities and inspiration to leaders across the continent. His unwavering dedication to peace, justice and unity earned him admiration far beyond Nigeria’s borders.

“The intellectual and spiritual world of Islam stands quieter, dimmer, and deeply wounded”, he said.

The Kebbi State Governor extends its sincerest condolences to the bereaved family, to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the Government and people of Bauchi State, to the entire Muslim Ummah, and to all Nigerians whose lives were touched by the late Sheikh.

PGF pay sympathy visit to Gov Nasir Idris over abduction of Schoolgirls in Maga

A high-powered delegation of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), led by its Chairman and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, on Thursday paid a sympathy visit to Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, following the tragic abduction of schoolgirls of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) Maga in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Uzodimma conveyed the Forum’s deep sorrow over the incident and expressed their collective solidarity with the government and people of Kebbi State. 

He condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as an inhuman act never associated with Africa or Nigeria in the past. He expressed shock that such brutality has now occurred in Nigeria, specifically in Kebbi State.

The PGF Chairman assured Governor Idris that all Progressive Governors stand united with Kebbi State at this difficult time. 

He reaffirmed their commitment to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies to strengthen national security and bring an end to insecurity across Nigeria. 

He added that the governors were ready to provide all necessary logistical and network support to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and the country is secured.

Governor Uzodimma also commended the positive improvements in Nigeria’s economy over the past two and a half years, noting increased revenue and the need to ensure the gains translate into prosperity for ordinary Nigerians. 

He emphasized that "an injury to one is an injury to all," affirming that Kebbi State is not alone in this struggle.

Responding, Governor Nasir Idris welcomed the delegation. He described their visit as very dear to the state, significant, and deeply reassuring.

The Kebbi State Governor recounted the distressing incident of the abduction and the trauma experienced by families and communities. 

He noted that the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, had visited the state earlier to deliver President Tinubu’s message of encouragement and the assurance that security agencies were working tirelessly for the safe release of the abducted schoolgirls.

Governor Idris expressed gratitude to the Progressive Governors for their solidarity and compassion. He assured them that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the safe return of the children. 

He also disclosed that he had met with parents, security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to coordinate efforts and prayers for the girls' safe rescue.

The Governor reiterated his confidence that the abducted students would be safely reunited with their families soon.

The Progressive Governor’s delegation was led by the Executive Governor of Imo State, who is also the chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, His Excellency Hope Uzodinma; the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Rev. Father Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia; the Executive Governor of Kogi State  His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo; and the Governor of Ondo State Governor, His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Other Governors on the entourage were the Governor of Jigawa State His Excellency Malam Umar Namadi; and Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu  Akabe.