Author Archives: News All Around

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

In a significant move, Honorable Fatima Talba, representing Potiskum/Nangere Federal Constituency of Yobe State, has introduced a motion to amend the Federal Medical Center Act of 2022. The proposed amendment aims to establish a Federal Medical Center in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The motion gained momentum when Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, representing Koshofe Federal Constituency in Lagos, seconded it. Honorable Ogbara expressed her support, stating, “I am proud to support this bill, which will bring much-needed healthcare services to the people of Potiskum/Nangere Federal Constituency.”

After the motion was seconded, the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, sought approval from the members to send the bill for a second reading. With the members’ consent, the Speaker forwarded the bill for further consideration.

Speaker Abbass referred the bill to the Committee on Health Institutions, a crucial step in the legislative process. The Committee will review the bill, examine its implications, hold public hearings, and consider expert opinions before deciding whether to recommend it for further action.

This development is a testament to Honorable Talba’s commitment to improving the lives of her constituents. As a dedicated legislator, she has been advocating for quality healthcare services in her community ¹.

The establishment of a Federal Medical Center in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State will undoubtedly bring significant benefits to the people of the region. It will provide access to quality healthcare services, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

By Abba Dahiru

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Groups (NCSPG) has made a shocking revelation about the alleged sinister plans of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to sabotage the administration of current Governor, Senator Uba Sani. The accusation was made at a press conference held at the Arewa House in Kaduna, where Comrade Musa Mohammed, the National President of NCSPG, revealed that the coalition had uncovered a plot by El-Rufai to undermine Governor Uba Sani’s administration.

According to Mohammed, El-Rufai’s actions are in response to the Kaduna State House Assembly’s adoption of a report recommending that El-Rufai and his aides be investigated for alleged financial mismanagement. The report accused El-Rufai’s administration of leaving behind a debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities.

Mohammed stated that instead of cooperating with the investigation, El-Rufai had resorted to clandestine meetings and plotting against Governor Uba Sani. The coalition warned El-Rufai to desist from his actions, emphasizing that they would not hesitate to defend Governor Uba Sani and the people of Kaduna State.

The NCSPG expressed satisfaction with Governor Uba Sani’s leadership, citing his commitment to good governance despite the challenges posed by the debt burden inherited from El-Rufai’s administration. Mohammed noted that Governor Uba Sani had decided to follow due process in unraveling the truth about the debt burden, rather than resorting to confrontation.

The coalition vowed to resist any attempts by El-Rufai to unseat Governor Uba Sani, emphasizing that the people of Kaduna State would not be swayed by El-Rufai’s “evil machinations.” Mohammed declared that Governor Uba Sani had done well and would continue to work tirelessly to develop Kaduna State.

Mohammed also called on anti-graft agencies to take immediate action against El-Rufai, citing the recent arrest of his finance commissioner as evidence of embezzlement. The coalition prayed for peace and tranquility in Kaduna State and the country at large.

The press conference was attended by various stakeholders, including journalists, civil society organizations, and community leaders. The NCSPG’s allegations against El-Rufai are likely to generate significant attention and debate in the coming days.

It remains to be seen how El-Rufai will respond to the allegations, but one thing is clear: the political landscape in Kaduna State is set to become increasingly contentious in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

As the situation unfolds, the people of Kaduna State will be watching closely to see how their leaders respond to the challenges ahead. The NCSPG’s revelations have raised more questions than answers, and it is clear that the battle for the soul of Kaduna State has only just begun.

By Ameh Ochagwu

A stunning revelation has rocked the political landscape of Kaduna State, as a socio-political group has blown the lid off a shocking conspiracy involving former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

According to the Northern Coalition of Socio-Political Group (NCSPG), El-Rufai has been secretly orchestrating a campaign of sabotage against the current Governor, Uba Sani, in a desperate bid to regain power.

The group’s National President, Comrade Musa Mohammed, dropped the bombshell at a packed press conference in Kaduna, revealing that El-Rufai’s sinister plot involves exploiting his vast network of cronies and loyalists to undermine Governor Sani’s administration.

“El-Rufai’s plan is to create chaos and instability in Kaduna State, making it impossible for Governor Sani to deliver on his campaign promises,” Mohammed alleged. “He wants to discredit the current administration and pave the way for his own comeback.”

The NCSPG leader claimed that El-Rufai’s scheme is motivated by a desire for revenge against Governor Sani, who has been working tirelessly to expose the former governor’s alleged misdeeds.

Mohammed cited a damning report by the Kaduna State House Assembly, which accused El-Rufai of leaving behind a staggering $587 million in inherited debts, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities.

“El-Rufai’s legacy is one of corruption, incompetence, and reckless abandon,” Mohammed declared. “He has no right to interfere with the progress being made by Governor Sani.”

The NCSPG has vowed to resist El-Rufai’s plot, mobilizing its members to rally behind Governor Sani and ensure that the people of Kaduna State are not deceived by the former governor’s antics.

As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the people of Kaduna State will not be fooled by El-Rufai’s desperate attempts to cling to power. The fate of the state hangs in the balance, and only time will tell if Governor Sani will emerge victorious against the forces of corruption and deceit.

The people of Kaduna State are watching with bated breath as the situation unfolds, with many calling for transparency and accountability in governance. The 2027 elections are looming on the horizon, and the allegations made by the NCSPG are likely to have significant implications for the political landscape in Kaduna State.

The Kaduna State Government has yet to respond to the allegations, but sources close to the government have hinted that Governor Sani is taking the matter seriously and will not hesitate to take action to protect his administration.

As the battle for the soul of Kaduna State intensifies, one thing is certain: the people will not be silenced, and they will demand justice and accountability from their leaders.

By Mike Odeh James

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Delta State Chapter, has come out in support of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. Fajoye defended the company’s record on preventing oil theft and improving Nigeria’s oil production quota.

Fajoye’s defense comes after criticism from Comrade Jude Gbaboyor, former Secretary General of the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND). Gbaboyor had petitioned the management of Arise Television to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), over alleged false claims that Nigeria had recorded two million barrels per day in crude oil production.

According to Fajoye, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has made significant contributions to securing oil installations and pipelines in the Niger Delta region. The company has implemented a community-friendly approach, which has brought peace to the once chaotic waterways and creeks in the region.

Fajoye highlighted the company’s efforts in combating oil theft, including the detection and elimination of several illegal operations. Between August 2022 and November 2024, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited discovered 3,963 incidents related to oil theft, including 702 illegal connection points, 971 theft cases, and 1,784 illegal refineries. This led to the destruction of 3,063 facilities.

The company has also apprehended several vessels and equipment involved in illegal oil activities, including eight vessels, three tugboats, six barges, 117 vehicles, and 1,743 wooden boats. Fajoye noted that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has collaborated with government and security agencies to enhance coordinated efforts against oil theft.

In addition to its collaborative efforts, the company has employed advanced surveillance technologies to monitor oil installations and detect illegal activities. This includes the use of drones, sensors, and satellite imagery for real-time monitoring.

Fajoye stated that the efforts of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited have led to a significant reduction in oil losses. The company’s operations contributed to a 79% reduction in crude oil losses, demonstrating its effectiveness in combating oil theft and improving oil production.

As a Niger Delta youth leader, Fajoye’s defense of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited highlights the company’s positive impact on the region. The company’s community-friendly approach and collaborative efforts with government and security agencies have contributed to a safer and more secure environment for oil production.

By Mike Odeh James

The 11th Kaduna Golf Club 1921 Ladies Golf Championship has commenced, with over 80 golfers from various golf clubs across Nigeria participating in the four-day tournament. The championship, which began on Thursday, January 9, 2025, will feature a series of events, including a special barbecue and an Old School Night.

The participating golfers, dressed in their finest green and white attire, were seen teeing off at the lush green course of the Kaduna Golf Club. The event has attracted several dignitaries, who were present to witness the commencement of the championship.

According to the organizers, the championship is expected to end on Sunday, January 12, 2025, with a presentation of prizes to the winners. The event promises to be an exciting one, with golfers competing in various categories, including the Veterans Men Category and the Ladies Category.

The Kaduna Golf Club has been hosting the annual ladies golf championship for over a decade, and it has become a premier golfing event in Nigeria. The club’s lush green course provides a challenging yet scenic environment for golfers to showcase their skills.

The championship has also become a social event, with participants and spectators alike enjoying the various activities and entertainment lined up for the duration of the tournament. On Friday, a special barbecue event is scheduled to take place, while Saturday will feature an Old School Night, complete with music and dancing.

The organizers of the event have promised that this year’s championship will be bigger and better than previous editions. With over 80 golfers participating, the competition is expected to be fierce, and spectators can look forward to some thrilling golfing action.

As the championship progresses, golfers will be competing for top honors in their respective categories. The winners will be presented with prizes on Sunday, January 12, 2025, during the closing ceremony of the event.

The 11th Kaduna Golf Club 1921 Ladies Golf Championship is a testament to the growing popularity of golf in Nigeria. The event provides a platform for golfers to compete, socialize, and enjoy the beautiful game of golf.

As the tournament comes to a close on Sunday, golf enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting finale, complete with prize presentations and a closing ceremony. The 11th Kaduna Golf Club 1921 Ladies Golf Championship promises to be an unforgettable event, and one that will be eagerly anticipated by golf enthusiasts in the years to come.

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Kaduna State Chapter, has expressed disappointment over Punch Newspaper’s criticism of the federal government’s decision to establish a Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Southern Kaduna. In a press statement signed by the Chairman, Luka Binniyat, the MBF questioned the newspaper’s motives, wondering why it did not condemn the establishment of four new federal tertiary institutions in Zaria town, which already has 11 federal institutions.

According to Binniyat, the Punch Newspaper’s editorial of January 7, 2025, dismissing the new university as “political” and a “Greek gift,” was unfair and demonstrated a lack of understanding of the historical marginalization of Southern Kaduna. “We feel that had the Editors of Punch been armed with the shocking marginalization that Southern Kaduna has suffered in the allocation of federal institutions in Kaduna State, they would have written their editorial from a rather sympathetic perspective,” Binniyat said.

The MBF chairman noted that Southern Kaduna, which makes up 12 local government areas out of the 23 in Kaduna State, has been neglected in the allocation of federal institutions. “Kaduna State has an approximate landmass of 46,000 square kilometers, out of which Southern Kaduna has an estimated 26,000 square kilometers. Yet, Southern Kaduna has no single university,” Binniyat lamented.

Binniyat also pointed out that the new university in Kachia already has a well-developed physical structure, courtesy of the privately-built Nok University, which was forfeited to the federal government by the EFCC. “Unlike Speaker Abbas, who secured N80 billion funding for Zaria’s new schools, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is not costing the federal government much to build,” he said.

The MBF chairman questioned the Punch Newspaper’s silence on the establishment of four new federal tertiary institutions in Zaria town, which already has 11 federal institutions. “Why didn’t the Editors of Punch write their editorial condemning the creation of new federal universities when Zaria town, which is already saturated with federal institutions, got additional four new ones?” Binniyat asked.

Binniyat also expressed concern that the Punch Newspaper’s criticism may be motivated by a desire to discourage the federal government from establishing the new university. “We suspect that the motive behind the Punch Editorial is to discourage the federal government from seeing the takeoff of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia,” he said.

The MBF chairman emphasized the importance of the new university to the people of Southern Kaduna, who have been historically marginalized. “A university is not merely a place of learning; it is an economy and a development hub of its own, with accompanied value chains that could dramatically spark unprecedented prosperity to its area of location and environs,” Binniyat said.

Binniyat called on the Punch Newspaper to reconsider its stance on the new university, noting that the MBF would appreciate a follow-up editorial that takes into account the historical context of Southern Kaduna’s marginalization. “We hope that the Punch Newspaper will do the right thing and give us a balanced reportage,” he said.

In conclusion, Binniyat reiterated the MBF’s commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of the people of Southern Kaduna. “We will continue to speak out against injustice and marginalization, and we will not be silenced by critics who do not understand our struggles,” he said.

Residents of Sankwab Runji community in Zango Kataf Local Government Area, Kaduna State have decried constant collapse of primary School classes which adversely affects academic activities in the community.

The school’s classrooms, with broken walls and crumbling infrastructure, have become a symbol of neglect but also of determination.

The LGEA Primary School which serves about 200 pupils from the village and nearby areas, has been functioning in a precarious state for years.

Two blocks of classrooms have partially collapsed walls, exposing the students to extreme weather conditions whereby during rainy seasons, water seeps through the broken walls flooding the classrooms, while in dry seasons cold winds whip through the exposed spaces, making learning a big challenge.

Lamenting to our reporter, the Chairman, Parents Teachers Association of the school Mr. Bitrus Magaji said the school has only 4 Teachers who have been making extraordinary efforts to ensure learning continues.

Mr. Bitrus Magaji continued by stating that every year community members make voluntary financial contributions and community service towards fixing the school but each year comes with it’s challenges

The school has been using tree shades to carry out some class lessons However, these temporary fixes are far from being adequate, whereby some parents had to transfer their wards to nearby public or private schools.

Youth Leader of the community Mr. Livinus Achi and Mr. Joseph Bitrus who is a parent, expressed frustration over the development and called on the State Government and Local Government Chairman Engineer Bege Joseph to come to their assistance.

“We have being engaging ourselves in community service where we tasks each family some token for repair work at the school after which we contract builders to come and fix the collapsed structures but after some months, another side will collapse and the situation becomes worst that is why we are calling on our Governor, Senator Uba Sani and the Local Government Chairman Engineer Bege Joseph to come to our assistance”

According to the youth leader, the school was established in 1992 when government build a 2 classroom block and the principal’s office but all other classes where built through community efforts.

The parents believe that with government intervention, resilience of the students and the dedication of their teachers will inspire change and enable the children achieve their future dreams.

“The plight of LGEA Primary School Sankwab Runji serves as a stark reminder of the disparities in access to quality education in rural areas. It also highlights the strength of communities that refuse to let adversity stand in the way of their children’s futures”

… Insists recovery of looted funds very necessary

…Warns Against Elrufai’s interference

Kaduna Based development monitoring group under aegis of Forum for Good Governance (FFGG) has backed the arrest of former Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance and Local Government, Mohammed Bashir Sa’idu over allegations of money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds.

The former Commissioner,who served under Governor Nasir Elrufai’s administration was arrested following a petition,where he was accused of laundering N3.96 billion and misappropriating N244 million between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement made available to journalists today, the Forum for Good Governance in Kaduna said there was nothing wrong with his arrest , especially when the issue revolves around looting of public funds.

The group in the Statement signed by Hon. Ahmadu Ibrahim Kauru warned against any attempt by Elrufai to interfere with the process must be resisted vehemently. Recalled that same Elrufai never had respect for rule of law when he was Governor.

We gathered that Elrufai in his days as Governor arrested and detained innocent journalists several and media practitioners such as; Luka Binniyat of Vanguard Newspapers ,Jacob Dickson of Authentic Newspaper , Stephen Kefas and Gabriel Idibia and nobody dated challenged him.

While noting that recovery of looted funds is very necessary now that Kaduna state is highly indebted,the Forum insisted that ,” His arrest must not be politicised because we all know that once an agency arrest an individual for looting of public funds or financial crime,it is in order.

The statement further reads: Allegations such as misappropriation of funds, sale of $45 million in state-owned foreign currency at an undervalued exchange rate of N410 per dollar, instead of the parallel market rate of N498 per dollar, causing a loss of over N3.96 billion to the government.

“Additionally, he is accused of failing to account for proceeds from the sale of government houses in Marafa Estate, Kaduna, amounting to approximately N244 million.

“We gathered from reports that the Kaduna State House of Assembly previously investigated Sa’idu’s financial dealings and forwarded its findings to anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC and ICPC.

“We are happy that the police confirmed his arrest was not politically motivated but, followed by credible allegations of financial crimes and will remain in detention as investigations continue.”

By Mike Odeh James

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has commended the Governors of Adamawa and Bauchi states for taking bold steps to promote cultural identity and self-determination. This development is seen as a major breakthrough for the people of the Middle Belt, who have long been marginalized and excluded from decision-making processes.

In a press release issued on December 31, 2024, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of the Middle Belt Forum, praised Governor Adamu Ahamdu Fintiri of Adamawa state for creating new Chiefdoms and Emirates in the state. “This is a landmark achievement that will enhance cultural identity, bridge the gap between government and local communities, and attract development to the new Emirates and Chiefdoms,” Dr. Pogu said.

The statement specifically highlighted the creation of the following Emirates and Chiefdoms:

• Hoba Emirate (Hong, 2nd Class)
• Madagali Emirate (Gulak, 2nd Class)
• Michika Emirate (Michika, 2nd Class)
• Fufore Emirate (Fufore, 2nd Class)
• Gombi Chiefdom (Gombi, 3rd Class)
• Maiha Chiefdom (Maiha, 3rd Class)
• Yungur Chiefdom (Dumne, 3rd Class)

Dr. Pogu also commended Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state for his intention to create a Chiefdom for the Sayawa (Zaar) people of Tafawa Balewa town. “This development is long overdue, and we pledge our support for the Governor’s decision,” he said.

“The Sayawa people have the right to host the headquarters of their new Chiefdom in Tafawa Balewa, given their traditional, cultural, historical, and legal rights to the land,” Dr. Pogu emphasized.

The MBF also called on the Governor of Borno state, Prof. Abbagana Zulum, to follow the examples of Governors Fintiri and Mohammed by liberating ethnic nationalities in Southern Borno from the rule of the Kanem Borno empire.

Dr. Pogu noted that the creation of new Chiefdoms and Emirates is a step towards addressing the historical injustices faced by the people of the Middle Belt. “We believe that this development will go a long way in promoting peace, stability, and development in the region,” he said.

The MBF urged other state governors in the region to promote cultural identity and self-determination in their respective states, believing that this will help build a more just and equitable society for all.

By Ibrahim S. Tinja

In a groundbreaking move, the Arewa Ears Community Development Forum has launched its inaugural youths empowerment program in Potiskum/Nangere Local Government of Yobe State. The initiative aims to educate and empower northern Nigerian youths about various federal government programs, providing them with the necessary tools to improve their livelihoods and businesses.

Muazu Muhammad, the Chief Executive Officer of the forum, emphasized the organization’s commitment to serving as the voice of northern youths, advocating for jobs, empowerment, and government interventions that benefit all. To achieve this, the forum has forged a strategic partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Department Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to provide support to youths in Potiskum and Nangere federal constituency.

According to Muazu Muhammad, “The empowerment program was initiated by the forum to awaken the northern Nigerian youths on various federal government programs. We serve as the voice of the entire northern youths in seeking jobs, empowerment, and other government interventions for the benefits of all.”

The forum also plans to collaborate with Hajiya Fatima Talba, the member representing Nangere and Potiskum federal constituency, to develop and implement people-oriented policies and programs. Governor Mai Mala Buni was commended for his support to the organization, while the 500 empowered youths were urged to utilize the grants provided to enhance their livelihood conditions and businesses.

During the occasion, the forum presented awards to Governor Buni as the Best Northern Governor of the Year and Hon. Fatima Talba as the Best Northern Woman of the Year. This empowerment program marks a significant milestone in the forum’s efforts to promote youth development and economic growth in northern Nigeria.

The launch of the empowerment program was attended by dignitaries from across the region, including government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives from SMEDAN. The event was a testament to the forum’s commitment to empowering northern youths and promoting economic growth in the region.