Author Archives: News All Around

By Musa Moses

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a stern call for Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to resign immediately. This demand comes amidst alarming evidence linking Governor Lawal to financing terror groups operating in the region.

According to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, Governor Lawal’s recent comments demanding the resignation of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, are misguided. Instead, it is Governor Lawal who should step down due to his alleged involvement with criminal enterprises.

A recently circulated document, RE-NORTH-WESTERN GOVERNORS/UN-ORGANIZED SECURITY SUMMIT IN KATSINA, exposes Governor Lawal’s intricate ties to notorious bandit leaders. The document reveals a request for One Billion, Three Hundred and Seventy-Eight Million Naira for a dubious state government reconciliation programme.

This initiative raises serious ethical and legal concerns, particularly considering the funds were earmarked for distribution to high-profile bandit leaders, including Bello Turji, Dogo Gide, Ado Aliero, Halilu Sububu, and Gwaska Dan Karami. Additionally, payoffs were planned for certain media houses and influencers.

The AYCF views Governor Lawal’s actions as a desperate attempt to divert attention from his own alleged complicity with terror groups. His unease has escalated since the arrest of his former aide, Bashir Hadejiya, on serious charges of gun running and international criminal conspiracy.

Furthermore, the elimination of bandit leader Halilu Sububu and the diminishing power of criminal factions, attributed to Minister Matawalle’s efforts, have weakened Governor Lawal’s alleged affiliates.

Governor Lawal’s calls for Matawalle’s resignation reflect a grave misunderstanding of the region’s dire circumstances. The AYCF stresses that Minister Matawalle’s ongoing efforts have yielded tangible results in the battle against banditry.

The forum urges Governor Lawal to step down, citing his tenure’s dangerous overlap of governance and criminality. Should he fail to resign voluntarily, the AYCF advocates for a total state of emergency in Zamfara State.

This emergency declaration would entail Governor Lawal’s removal and the appointment of a military sole administrator. The AYCF believes this measure is essential to restore order and address the deteriorating security situation.

In conclusion, the people of Zamfara and the broader region deserve governance prioritizing their safety and well-being. As the AYCF emphasized, “The time for decisive action is now.”

The Institute of Strategic Management of Nigeria Chartered (ISMNC), on Thursday expressed its readiness to partner with the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation in providing strategic leadership training and capacity building for senior-level public servants.

President and Chairman, Governing Board of the Institute, Mr Alex Ndudi Enebeli, said this when he led a delegation of the Institute’s officials on a courtesy visit to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack in Abuja.

He said the Institute which was founded in 2003 and chartered in 2023, is Africa’s premier institution dedicated to the strategic development of professionals and organisations.

Enebeli said the mission of the Institute is to advance knowledge and skills in strategic management, leadership, governance, entrepreneurship and innovation through research, education, training, certification and the induction and regulation of members.

He said the purpose of the visit was to seek the partnership of the Office of the Head of Civil Service for greater impact strategic leadership and policy implementation, saying, the office “as the hub of government operations, plays a critical role in the execution of government policies and programmes.”

According to him, the collaboration will be mutually beneficial, as it will help in strengthening both the office of the Head of Civil Service and the broader public service.

He said the Institute has identified three key areas of collaboration which include programme support; supporting the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021-2025 and public service professionalisation.

“At ISMNC, we are committed to delivering quality and result-oriented professional development. We believe in transformative innovation – not only through methodologies but through mindset change. Our aim is not just to respond to known challenges, but unlock new opportunities through strategic design and execution.

We prepare people to be flexible specialists. The world is changing so fast and only those who are flexible can meet up”, Enebeli said.

Responding, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack, expressed delight over the mission of the Institute, which she said aligns with that of her office.

“You know, we have so much in common, not only for me as an individual, but also the office itself. Because I see that much of what you are doing are things that this office actually is greatly involved in. And so, your vision of strategic management, leadership and governance, and innovation are critical to some of the key areas that we deal with in this office.

“Specifically, we have the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021-2025, which is actually the strategy document housing the ongoing civil service reforms. And in this document, we have the six pillars of the reforms. And I would let you know that the very first pillar is capability building and talent management.

“And so I see that your vision resonates squarely with pillar one of our strategy documents. And so I listened carefully to all that you said and to the three key areas which you have identified for collaboration with this office. I’ll take them one at a time.

“You talked about programme support and the fact that you are offering to us a short course on leading strategic change. I think this is a good place to Start. Because without mincing words, yes, yes, and yes.

“Our vision actually is to tackle capability building from all angles. Right now, we’re in the process of procuring an e-learning platform. And as you mentioned, we chose that e-learning platform so that you are fully abreast of our activities.

“We have the SMART-P and LEAD-P programmes. At the moment, we are thinking of expanding pillar one to the extent that we will have a centre of excellence which will manage all the different programmes under pillar one. And so I’d like to appreciate your offer and to say we accept your offer and we will look into how we can expand it as time goes on”, she said.

She urged the Institute to provide her office with a contact person who will liaise with the permanent secretary, career management office, so they can work out the details of the different levels of collaboration.

Among members of the delegation from the Institute include, Mr Obitunde Obiyemi, Registrar and CEO; Dr Jummai Umar-Ajijola, Chair, Board of Fellows; Dr Otive Igbuzor, past President; Mr Adeyemi Mapaderun, member, Governing Board; Mrs Rachel Kotso, Chair, Abuja Chapter; Dr Vitalis Emeka Obi, Permanent Secretary, Budget and Dr Emmanuel Meribole, Permanent Secretary, Aviation.

The meeting also had in attendance, permanent secretaries, directors and other top officials from the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.

Kaduna State has officially activated the PAYKADUNA Revenue Administration Portal, marking a seamless transition to a more efficient and transparent tax payment system.

Unveiled by Governor Uba Sani on May 22, 2024, the PAYKADUNA platform is now fully operational across all sectors of the state’s economy.

Designed to fastrack the process of internally generated revenue (IGR) collection, the portal simplifies the tax administration process, making it more accessible for taxpayers and revenue-generating agencies.

Comrade Jerry Adams, Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), announced the official cutover to PAYKADUNA, emphasizing the state’s dedication to leveraging technology for streamlined revenue collection.

“This strategic shift embodies our commitment to efficiency, transparency, and accessibility,” Adams remarked.

The platform centralizes payments for all state Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, ensuring secure and unified transactions.

By setting a new benchmark for revenue administration, PAYKADUNA is expected to enhance compliance rates and contribute to Kaduna’s economic growth.

KADIRS also called for continuous collaboration with partners to ensure the system’s success, positioning PAYKADUNA as a model for digital-friendly governance.

By Femi Adi, Kaduna

When Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani was sworn -in on May 29,2023, he made promises to inject new ideas of leadership with emphasis on his SUSTAIN Agenda that will change the face of governance in Kaduna and beyond.

No doubt,he has within one year in office achieved the feat and has continued to push for more radical development changes that focuses on the principles of good governance based on world standards.

Despite facing a critical period of cash crunch due to the heavy loan burden, he has remained undeterred in his avowed commitments to create the requisite enabling environment for business and economic prosperity.

Considering the Governor’s administrative process coupled with his smart sense of viable vision, Little wonder, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu invited him to join the super delegation on a State visit to China .

Governor Uba Sani and other senior government officials received the President in Beijing, China for the State Visit to China and the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation #FOCAC Summit with the theme: “Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build High-Level China-Africa Community with Shared Future”.

For Uba Sani , it was not a time for tea party , but an opportunity as a spin doctor to meet chief executive officers of major Chinese corporations to discuss business and various important matters of growth and development.

According to Global Times report, After China and Nigeria elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Uba Sani, the governor of Nigeria’s Kaduna State,said he is thrilled to see his state partner with China in a “smart city” project, which aligns with the country’s industrialization.

Kaduna State lies at the southern end of Nigeria’s northern plateau,and 80 percent of is 5 million population work in agriculture,according to media reports.

The smart city project will be built under cooperation with Chinese tech giant Huawei -“a very reliable partner,” Sani told the Global Times.

The project will enhance public security,efficiency and transparency in public service,and help his state to establish an e-government,make education, healthcare and talent cultivation “smart,” and boost the use of renewable energy, the governor said.

Sani hopes to form a joint committee between Kaduna government and Huawei “in one or two weeks.”

The smart city project is one of several broader deals between China and Nigeria that have been inked during the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu held talks on Tuesday and announced the elevation of China-Nigeria ties They also witnessed the signing of
cooperation documents including the application of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, peanut exports to China and news media cooperation.

Sani said that China plays a significant role in Nigeria’s industrialization, and he is “more hopeful and confident that [after this time fat the FOCAC, we will see more fruits.”

Kaduna State has Nigeria’s first modernized railroad, the Abuja-Kaduna Railway. It is the first railway in Africa built based on Chinese technical standards.

Sani revealed that two months ago his state partnered with North China’s Hebei Province to construct an industrial park. Hopefully.

By Abubakar Jangudo

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) and over 500 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have withdrawn their ultimatum and call for protest against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) over the recent fuel price increase.

This decision was reached after a careful review of the situation and advice from Northern leaders, elders, and security forces on the potential implications of the protest.

According to AYAGL Speaker Ambassador Abdul DanBature, the decision to withdraw the protest call was taken to avoid exacerbating the already challenging economic situation in the country.

The group commended NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kolo Kyari, for his efforts in addressing the fuel shortage and ensuring availability.

AYAGL praised Kyari’s leadership, citing his commitment to transparency and accountability. The group noted that Kyari’s success has attracted envy and opposition from forces seeking to tarnish his reputation.

The group had previously held a solidarity rally in support of President Tinubu and urged him to disregard calls for Kyari’s sack. AYAGL reiterated its support for Kyari, citing his impressive scorecard and dedication to repositioning NNPCL.

AYAGL called on the Federal government to provide palliatives to alleviate the suffering of the masses amidst the current hardship. The group emphasized the need for proactive measures to address the economic challenges facing Nigerians.

In conclusion, AYAGL’s decision to withdraw its protest call demonstrates its commitment to national interest and constructive engagement. The group will continue to support leaders like Kyari who prioritize good governance and effective leadership.

By Abdulrazak Kanni

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned in strong terms the torture and unlawful incarceration of Seaman Haruna Abbas, who has been held captive for six years.

According to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, the case is a “gross violation of human rights” and demands the immediate release of Mr. Abbas.

Recent revelations by Mr. Abbas’s wife, Hassana Abbas, exposed the cruelty and injustice suffered by her husband at the hands of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and other individuals complicit.

AYCF unequivocally condemned the actions of Brigadier General Muhammad S. Adamu and all those involved in the wrongful conviction, unjust incarceration, and subsequent torture.

The group demanded accountability for all individuals implicated in this egregious violation of justice.

AYCF also called for the establishment of transparent mechanisms for reviewing cases of alleged wrongful detention.

Especially those involving military personnel who continue to suffer in silence while their rights are trampled upon.

The plight of Seaman Abbas should serve as a rallying cry for all Nigerians who value justice and human rights.

His story is emblematic of a broader systemic issue that affects many citizens who fall prey to arbitrary detention and abuse of power.

AYCF reiterated its unwavering support for Seaman Abbas and his family.

The group vowed to continue advocating for all those who have been wronged by systems intended to serve and protect them.

Until justice is served, and the perpetrators of such heinous crimes are brought to their rightful place before the law.

AYCF urged human rights organizations, legal advocates, and civil society to join them in this fight for justice.

The collective voices of concerned citizens can foster a culture of accountability and transparency in our institutions.

The time to act is now; justice for Seaman Haruna Abbas is not just a demand but a moral imperative that we must uphold for humanity, dignity, and the rule of law.

By Odeh James

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Kaduna State chapter of the Labour Party has hailed the appointment of Senator Nenadi Usman as the Chairman of the party’s Caretaker Committee and Hon. Solomon Danbaki as the Interim Chairman of the state chapter.

According to a communiqué issued by the All Support Groups and Obidient Stakeholders, Kaduna State Chapter, the stakeholders congratulated the new leadership and expressed gratitude to Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, and Dr. Alex Otti.

At a strategic meeting held in Kaduna, the stakeholders condemned the actions of immediate past Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, and his associates, accusing them of anti-party activities.

The communiqué called on Abure to refund party assets and funds, urging him to “embrace peace and accept the current reality for the greater good of the nation.”

The stakeholders advised the new leadership to embark on a membership drive and create a new membership register.

They also appealed to aggrieved members to return, assuring them that efforts are being made to address past anomalies.

The meeting adopted a new slogan: “Obidient Movement! Doing the right thing! Doing the right thing! Go and verify!”

With the new leadership, party stakeholders expressed optimism about the party’s prospects.

“We remain steadfast in our determination to reclaim Nigeria for ourselves and future generations,” the communiqué stated.

The meeting was attended by representatives of support groups and stakeholders from across Kaduna State.

Musa Kankara

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended the bravery and resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the astute leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle in military’s rigorous operations—spurred by the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu which has initiated a significant turning tide in the persistent battle against banditry, particularly in the North-Western region of Nigeria.

According to the northern group in a statement issued by it’s Chairman Salihu Suleiman, the Northern region has long been beleaguered by the terror and violence inflicted by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla whose criminal enterprise, characterized by extortion, intimidation, and the tragic loss of lives, has wrought havoc upon our local communities.

NAN averred that the audacity with which Turji has operated, compelling citizens to pay exorbitant protection levies and perpetuating a culture of fear, is a matter of grave concern for all stakeholders in our beloved nation.

“In a decisive move to combat the incessant menace of banditry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed squarely at dismantling Turji’s illicit activities. This directive symbolizes a pivotal juncture in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against banditry, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security to vulnerable communities.

“The recent strategic realignment of military resources to Sokoto, where Minister Matawalle has relocated to ensure enhanced oversight, further underscores the government’s urgency to reclaim authority in the region. The commitment shown by both President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle serves as a beacon of hope for citizens weary of insecurity”.

NAN therefore applauded the swift action taken by Minister Matawalle and the gallant troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Their recent operations have clearly demonstrated effectiveness in incapacitating bandit elements, leading to a marked decline in the organized criminal activities that once seemed unassailable.

Suleiman said, reports indicate that bandit leaders, who were once emboldened by a perceived lack of concerted military presence, have been sent scampering into the shadows, with their criminal enterprises thrown into disarray. This newfound momentum in our security apparatus is both reassuring and promising, the group said.

“The neutralization of Halilu Buzu a foreign national (from the Republic of Niger)is a terrorist leader involved in cattle rustling and illegal gold mining in Jawayi Anka LGA of Zamfara State and a notorious leader of the bandits marks a significant milestone in the fight against banditry in Nigeria, reflecting the resolve of local authorities to confront and dismantle criminal networks.

“This development not only reassures residents of Zamfara State but also represents a broader commitment to securing the nation against the threats posed by both domestic and foreign criminals. The fight against banditry is ongoing, but with sustained efforts like those demonstrated by Minister Matawalle, there is hope for a more peaceful and secure future for the region.

“In light of these recent successes, we call for deeper support and understanding from the public. The collaboration of citizens is paramount in the collective endeavor to restore peace and stability within our communities. The resilience of the Nigerian populace and their participation in intelligence-sharing efforts will serve to fortify the recent gains achieved by our military forces.

By Emeka Anyana

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 Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a statement issued by the President General of the forum, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF recognized the overwhelming response orchestrated by the current administration, reflecting a renewed commitment to restoring peace and security to the communities.

The forum noted that the North-West has been besieged by a terrifying surge in banditry, casting a pall of insecurity that has affected the daily lives of countless citizens. The relentless campaign of terror by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla has involved extorting protection levies and inflicting grievous harm on innocent civilians.

The AYCF commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for taking decisive action by mandating Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed at dismantling Turji’s criminal enterprise. The forum believes that this redirection in military strategy is a vital step towards reclaiming the dignity and safety of the people.

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 the borders.

The AYCF 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.

The forum urged the troops to maintain this momentum and ensure the total eradication and capture of all criminal elements in the region. It expressed unfaltering confidence in Minister Matawalle’s ability to guide the military forces to victory against the scourge of banditry.

However, the AYCF emphasized the need to address the systemic issues that underlie banditry, noting that sustainable peace in the North-West requires comprehensive solutions that encompass socio-economic development and community engagement.

The forum urged President Tinubu’s administration to adopt a holistic approach that intertwines military action with equitable socio-economic development, investing in programs that empower local communities and restore faith in governance.

By doing so, the AYCF believes that the conditions that allow banditry to thrive can be mitigated, paving the way for sustainable peace and security in Nigeria’s North-West region.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

Hon. Fatsuma Talba, Member representing Nangere/Potiskum Federal Constituency, has praised the management and staff of the Maryam Abacha American University of Niger (MAAUN) in Maradi, Niger Republic, led by Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, for their outstanding achievements over the past 12 years.

In a press release issued on September 10, 2024, Hon. Talba highlighted the university’s impressive track record, noting its significant contributions to the field of education. “I want to use this medium to extend my warmest gratitude to Prof Gwarzo and the staff cum students of this wonderful institution,” she said.

The university has produced five Provosts of Nursing Colleges in Borno, Yobe, and Bauchi States, including Kiloh Nifor, Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences in Jalingo, Taraba State, and Dr. Yusuf Bello, Provost of the Kaduna State College of Nursing Sciences. Hon. Talba noted, “Twelve years after its establishment, MAAUN has made tremendous progress, and this is evident in the number of talented individuals it has produced.”

Furthermore, the university has produced over 1,000 Medical Laboratory Scientists, with many practicing in Nigeria and abroad. Hon. Talba commended this achievement, saying, “This is a testament to the university’s dedication to equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen fields.”

Hon. Talba also commended the university’s excellence in law and other fields, noting its commitment to providing a well-rounded education. She praised Prof. Gwarzo’s leadership, saying, “I am impressed by the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its impact on Nigerian society. Prof. Gwarzo’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the university’s success.”

Hon. Talba concluded by reiterating her admiration for the university’s achievements, saying, “I applaud Prof. Gwarzo’s dedication to nurturing young minds, and I am confident that MAAUN will continue to make significant contributions to education in Nigeria and beyond.”