Author Archives: News All Around

By Agamah Boris

As political speculations swirl in Zamfara State, the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a strong caution to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning against the possible defection of Governor Dauda Lawal from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the ruling party.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, and circulated to journalists on Wednesday, NAN described any plan to welcome Lawal into the APC as a “strategic misjudgment” that could fracture the party’s stability and weaken its electoral prospects in the North-West state.

According to NAN, Governor Lawal’s rumored shift is not born of ideological alignment but rather a desperate move to escape the intensifying political heat being applied by entrenched APC powerbrokers — specifically, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor and Senator Abdulaziz Yari. Both figures are known to command significant grassroots loyalty and political influence in Zamfara, and have reportedly been working to neutralize Lawal’s 2027 re-election ambitions.

“The political landscape in Zamfara is delicate, and Governor Dauda Lawal’s hold on power is slipping rapidly,” the NAN statement reads. “His anticipated decampment to the APC should not be mistaken for strength or added value to the party.”

The organization stated bluntly that Lawal’s political trajectory has been marred by controversy and a lackluster performance, which it believes makes him an unsuitable ally for the APC.

“His inclusion in the APC would be an uncalculated gamble,” NAN stated. “Rather than adding value, Lawal would become a burden — creating internal conflict, risking party unity, and diluting the APC’s core message of discipline, vision, and northern unity.”

NAN contends that the APC must be especially wary in Zamfara, a state long plagued by banditry, instability, and a rapidly shifting voter base. “This is not the time for sentimental or reactionary politics. APC needs stability and must build on the solid structures already in place through committed, tested loyalists,” the statement added.

The group also warned that Lawal’s defection could send the wrong signals to party supporters across the region — particularly those who have made sacrifices to build the party’s profile in the North.

“Welcoming Governor Lawal would alienate grassroots supporters, weaken the credibility of the APC’s anti-corruption stance, and embolden political opportunism over ideological consistency.”

NAN called on the APC’s national leadership to demonstrate strategic foresight and prioritize the collective political interest of the North over individual ambitions.

“In this crucial period leading to the next general election, what the APC needs are loyal party men and women who command trust, respect, and alignment with the party’s long-term vision — not opportunists with questionable legacies.”

They concluded with a call for vigilance: “We urge the APC to tread carefully and not allow temporary political drama to derail the party’s mission. The North deserves better. Zamfara deserves a future built on strong leadership and unity, not division and desperation

Adakole  Odeh

A northern-based advocacy group, Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a blessing not only to the North but to Nigeria as a whole, citing his remarkable achievements in transforming the nation’s capital.

The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it termed a visionary decision in appointing Wike as FCT Minister, asserting that the appointment was akin to “putting the right peg in the right hole.”

In a statement issued by the Speaker of the Assembly, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group applauded Wike’s pragmatic approach to governance, especially in addressing urban development challenges and security issues in Abuja.

“Since assuming office, Wike has demonstrated exceptional leadership, taking bold steps to address illegal developments, encroachments on public land, and persistent security lapses. His actions reflect a deep commitment to restoring the Abuja master plan and enforcing long-neglected laws,” Danbature said.

He highlighted Wike’s firm measures, including the demolition of unauthorized structures and the removal of street beggars, as necessary and long overdue. According to him, these reforms have reinvigorated public confidence in the FCT administration’s capacity to manage the capital effectively.

The group also commended Wike’s collaboration with neighboring states in tackling insecurity

By Manaseh Luka

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has condemned the ongoing plan by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal Dare to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to the group in a statement issued and signed by its Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the governor’s decision is motivated by fear and desperation. The group noted that this move would not only be a betrayal of the principles of the PDP but also reflect Governor Lawal’s inability to provide effective leadership in the face of political challenges.

The NSCF stated that it is evident the governor’s decision is primarily driven by apprehensions regarding the political maneuvers of influential figures such as the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and Senator AbdulAziz Yari.

“The looming shadows of these established political players have evidently instilled a sense of insecurity in Governor Lawal, compelling him to seek refuge in the APC. This act of political expediency underscores a troubling trend: the prioritization of personal ambition over the collective interest of the people of Zamfara State,” the group stated.

The statement further alleged that Governor Lawal has long been perceived as a political liability within the PDP, with a tenure marked by a lack of substantial contributions to the party’s vision and goals.

“Instead of fostering unity and progress, he has often been viewed as political baggage, failing to galvanize support and inspire confidence among party members and constituents alike,” Paul said.

Mr. Paul added that the governor’s proposed defection to the APC will not change the prevailing narrative about his leadership, but instead highlight his inability to rise above the challenges that have plagued his administration.

The NSCF maintained that the people of Zamfara State deserve a leader who prioritizes their welfare and development over personal political survival. According to the group, Governor Lawal’s decision to defect does not reflect a commitment to better governance but rather a retreat from accountability and responsibility.

“His track record within the PDP has proven that he lacks the vision and integrity necessary to lead effectively, and his transition to the APC is unlikely to yield any positive outcomes for the citizens he purports to serve,” the statement noted.

Moreover, the NSCF expressed concern that Governor Lawal’s shift to the APC will only exacerbate the existing political tensions within Zamfara State.

“The APC, under the influence of figures like Bello Matawalle and Senator Yari, is already embroiled in its own internal struggles. Introducing a leader who has previously demonstrated a lack of political acumen will only complicate matters further and may lead to greater instability within the state’s political landscape,” the forum emphasized.

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum, therefore, called on Governor Lawal to reconsider his decision to defect to the APC, urging him instead to prioritize the interests of the people of Zamfara State over his own political ambitions.

“The citizens deserve a leader who is committed to their welfare and who can unite rather than divide. It is our hope that the governor will reflect on his responsibility to the people he serves and choose a path that fosters unity, progress, and true democratic governance,” the statement added.

Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim takes over as the 33th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

In a significant development for the Nigerian military, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim has resumed in his new post, taking over from the immediate past Commandant Major General JO Ochai who has been in charge for almost 2 years. This appointment highlights his extensive experience and dedication to military education, training and operations within the Nigerian Army.

Born and bred in Kaduna, Major General Ibrahim hails from Borno State and has had a distinguished career since his commissioning on September 19, 1992, through the 39 Regular Combatant Course. Reputed to be a soldier’s soldier, tall well built but surprisingly calm. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service, rising through the ranks to his current position as Major General.

Major General Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Ahmadu Bello University, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. He is also a fellow of the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, a think tank of senior military leaders from Africa and around the world affiliated to the United States National Defence University in Washington. Gen Ibrahim is regularly invited to their roundtable discussions in Washington. He is also a regular participant and speaker at the US led Africa Land Forces Summits ( AFLFS) having participated in that of 2022 in Georgia USA and 2024 in Livingstone Zambia. His academic background, coupled with his military training, positions him well to lead the NDA in training and shaping the future leaders of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Throughout his career, Major General Ibrahim has attended numerous military courses, including the Young Officers Course, the Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and various operational training programs. He has held key positions in several battalions and units, including serving as a Platoon Commander, Company Commander ,Operations Officer and deputy Nigerian Contingent Commander in various peacekeeping missions, including those under the United Nations.

His operational experience spans critical missions, including ECOMOG in Liberia , United Nations Misson in Liberia and in Sudan. In Sudan he was part of the vanguard military observers who implemented the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that ended the decades long conflict between North and South Sudan. He had the distinct honour of being the MILOBS Team Leader in his Sector. He also served Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maiduguri and Operation Harmony in the Bakassi Peninsula during the Nigeria- Cameroon conflict showcasing his capability in both domestic and international military operations. He has been a Chief Instructor in the Nigerian Defence Academy and also at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Jaji Kaduna, a brigade commander, a general officer commanding in 7 Division Operation Lafiya Dole in Maiduguri and served as the longest ever serving Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force against the Boko Haram in Chad. Under his watch several operations were successfully conducted such as Operation Lake Sanity and Operation Sharan Fagge Involving all the countries of the lake Chad Basin (Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and the observer status country of Benin Republic). Deep forays were made into the lake Chad and hundreds of civilians rescued with hundreds of boko haram terrorists neutralized and thousands returned to their ancestral homes. In 7 Division, he galvanized the Division and took the fight to the adversary with remarkable success. Under the strategic guidance of Lt Gen Tukur Buratai rtd then army chief and Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya rtd who was his theatre commander , we can say he was groomed by 2 of the best. Hitherto displaced Nigerians returned to their ancestral homes in Ngoshe, Kirawa, Kauwri, Ajiri and especially Marte..where he personally led the operation that recaptured it in October 2019. The general is widely travelled with contacts and friendships cutting across both civil and military contacts the world over. He had a stint also in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as Director of Policy in the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and light weapons. His leadership and work has earned him several accolades, including the Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) , Decisive Command Medal, Defence Headquarters Medal from the Armed forces of Nigeria. For his contribution to peace, security and national development, the government of Nigeria awarded him the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2023. The Chadian Government under President Mahamat Kaka Deby also awarded him the Chadian national honour of National Order of Chad in recognition of his contributions to peace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

As he takes on this new role at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim is expected to leverage his vast experience to enhance the training and education of cadets, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern assymetric warfare and contribute to national security knowing fully well the nexus between security and national development. Informed military analysts are of the opinion that given his antecedents, he should deliver on this assignment especially in the wake of reports of a drop in the level of discipline in the military institution.

Major General Ibrahim is happily married and blessed with children. He is known for his interests in current affairs, horse riding, reading, and sports, particularly football, badminton, and table tennis. He also does charity work engaging the less privileged in the society.

The Nigerian Defence Academy community and military stakeholders look forward to Major General Ibrahim’s leadership as he embarks on this critical role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s military leadership. We wish him well and urge him to hit the ground running for there is no time to waste.

Ubeku Adele

In a strong appeal to safeguard democratic norms, the Lagos Society for Good Governance (LSGG), a non-partisan civic organization, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently intervene in what it describes as an “alarming trend of unconstitutional tenure elongation” across several Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State.

The group raised concerns over what it termed systematic attempts by certain LCDA chairpersons to sidestep constitutional term limits, warning that the ongoing practices threaten to erode the state’s democratic foundations.

In a detailed statement signed by its Coordinator, Ademola Gafar, the LSGG cited specific cases including Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA, Onigbongbo LCDA, and Ikosi Isheri LCDA, where vice chair

By Adsh Akatu

The Northern youth pressure group, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), has expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara State.

In light of the renewed and escalating insecurity that has left countless lives at risk, the forum has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum, Yerima Shettima, said that despite earlier successes recorded by federal troops in combating banditry, the situation in Zamfara has worsened significantly.

He noted that armed groups have become increasingly emboldened, launching brazen attacks on innocent civilians, displacing families, and creating an atmosphere of fear and hopelessness. He added that the people of Zamfara are in desperate need of immediate intervention to restore peace and security to their communities.

“We must also highlight the role of the state government under Governor Dauda Lawal Dare in this escalating crisis. The Governor’s inaction, indifference, and total lack of concern for the plight of the citizens have directly contributed to the worsening security situation.

“Instead of taking decisive action to confront the bandits, the governor has demonstrated a total lack of preparedness and capacity to challenge these criminal elements. Furthermore, allegations of the excessive pillage of public funds have raised serious questions about the governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people,” the statement said.

The AYCF firmly believes that a state of emergency is necessary to mobilize federal resources and restore law and order in Zamfara State. It therefore urged President Tinubu to take such a critical step to protect the lives and properties of the citizens and to hold the state government accountable for its failures.

“We stand with the people of Zamfara in their quest for safety, security, and justice. It is time for decisive action to end the suffering and restore hope to this beleaguered region,” it stated.

ENDS

By Juliet Nonso

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has strongly criticized the recent protest calling for the probe and prosecution of the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari, describing it as baseless and politically motivated.

The protest, organized under the banner of a group named Concerned Citizens Against Corruption, was held on Tuesday at the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. The group alleged that Kyari failed to settle a $2 billion debt during his tenure.

However, in a statement released on Thursday, the National Coordinator of the Yoruba Youth Council, Comrade Eric Oluwole, condemned the protest, questioning both its motive and credibility. He labeled the agitation as “narrow, selfish, unjustifiable, and unpatriotic.”

“An objective view of the protesters’ grievances shows that the so-called anti-corruption group is hiding under a noble cause to promote narrow and selfish interests,” Oluwole stated.

He further queried why the group focused solely on an alleged financial dispute while turning a blind eye to broader, more critical issues within the petroleum sector—such as rising fuel prices, supply challenges, and production shortfalls.

“The NNPCL is a corporate entity with mechanisms in place to resolve commercial disputes,” he added. “Why must Kyari be vilified over a single transaction when the institution he led has the capacity to address such claims through due process?”

The YYC highlighted several landmark achievements recorded under Mele Kyari’s leadership from July 8, 2019, until he left office on April 2, 2025. According to the group, his tenure transformed the NNPCL into a more transparent and performance-driven organization.

Among the key accomplishments outlined by the Council are:

Implementation of the TAPE Agenda: The launch of the Transparency, Accountability and Performance Excellence framework improved corporate governance and efficiency in operations.

Kolmani River-II Oil Discovery: A significant milestone that opened up Northern Nigeria as a viable oil-producing region.

Production Peak of 331,400 Barrels Per Day: Achieved in May 2020, marking a record output level despite global economic challenges.

Cost Reduction Measures: Revisions of Joint Venture (JV) and Production Sharing Contract (PSC) unit costs brought down operating expenses significantly—from $31 to $19 per barrel for JVs, and $24.3 to $18.3 per barrel for PSCs.

Strategic Investments: Execution of funding agreements such as the $3.15 billion OML 13 and $876 million OML 65 projects, leading to substantial output increases.

Acquisition and Expansion: Procurement of vital oil blocks like OMLs 11, 24, 116, and 98, and the recovery of debts amounting to over N16.64 billion and $3.55 million.

Gas Infrastructure Development: Construction and flag-off of the 614-kilometre Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas pipeline, part of a broader plan to utilize Nigeria’s vast gas resources.

LNG Capacity Boost: Signing of the NLNG Train 7 EPC contract to expand output from 22 to 30 million tonnes per annum, attracting over $10 billion in foreign investment and creating thousands of jobs.

Debt Recovery Initiatives: The resolution of the Escravos Gas-to-Liquids (EGTL) dispute with Chevron, yielding an agreement expected to contribute $2 billion to national coffers over 20 years.

Fuel Supply and Security Measures: Launch of “Operation White” to monitor and ensure consistent fuel distribution across the country, combatting diversion and smuggling.

The YYC concluded by urging Nigerians to critically assess the motives behind such protests and recognize public servants who have genuinely contributed to national progress.

“Mele Kyari’s legacy is one of reform, transparency, and measurable results. He deserves commendation for his service, not politically motivated persecution,” the council stated.

—

Former senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District,Comrade Shehu Sani today wrote off the protest held by some groups in Abuja against former Group Chief Executive Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) ,as nothing, but sponsored project by some displeased or disgruntled oil interests .

According to him, most of the young guys he saw on the protest train , don’t actually know what they were protesting about, they just joined.

A group of protesters had on Tuesday stormed the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi to demand the prosecution of former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.

The group Led by its convener, Kabir Matazu, had expressed disappointment that, despite President Bola Tinubu’s removal of Kyari and the entire NNPCL board on April 2, 2025, no steps have been taken to investigate the alleged corrupt practices during Kyari’s tenure.

But Shehu Sani in a reaction to the protest via his social media handles said: “I came across some protesters at the Federal Secretariat Abuja,raising placards against the ex NNPCL CEO Kyari. Most of the young guys there, don’t actually know what they were protesting about.They just joined.

“It’s clearly a sponsored project by some displeased or disgruntled oil interests against Kyari.”

The lamaker strongly believes that Kyari is clearly one of the GMD’s that has distinguished himself not only as a dynamic business administrator, innovative manager, technocrat , transparent and accountability advocate but shown great dexterity in his leadership style.

He however, warned against people being used to destroy reputation of good leaders who put their all while holding public office.

By Moosh Ehis

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has extended its heartfelt commendation to the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his unwavering commitment to the development and progress of the state through the strategic partnership with the World Bank.

AYCF President General Yerima Shettima said the collaboration, which encompasses a remarkable portfolio of eight major projects worth a total of $885 million, represents a significant step forward in addressing critical developmental challenges faced by our communities.

Shettima recalled that during a recent courtesy visit by Mr. Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Governor Sani articulated a visionary roadmap aimed at enhancing the impact of these projects across various sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare.

“We applaud the governor’s recognition of the transformative role that the World Bank has played in our state, particularly through initiatives such as the Adolescent Girls’ for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, and the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Recovery Stimulus Programme (NG-CARES).

Shettima averred that these projects have not only laid the groundwork for sustainable development but have also provided our youth with opportunities for empowerment and growth, adding that the governor’s commitment to expanding World Bank support into new areas, including the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) Project and the Resilient and Accessible Microfinance (RAM) Project, is a testament to his dedication to building a diversified and resilient economy for Kaduna State.

“As stakeholders in the future of Kaduna, we recognize the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the success of these initiatives” he stated.

The AYCF urged all citizens to actively engage with and support the government’s efforts in implementing these projects, stressing that it is imperative that we work together to create an environment conducive for development, where the benefits of such investments can be felt by all, especially the most vulnerable among us.

“We also commend Mr. Ousmane Diagana for his recognition of Governor Sani’s strong leadership and the effectiveness of Kaduna’s collaboration with the World Bank. Such acknowledgment is a reflection of the potential that exists within our state when we harness the right partnerships and leadership”.

The AYCF said it stands firmly behind Governor Uba Sani in his mission to elevate Kaduna State to new heights. “We call upon all residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to join hands in fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity. Together, we can ensure that the benefits of these projects are maximized, leading to a brighter future for all citizens of Kaduna State” he stressed.

ENDS

…Blasts Ndume for Not Appreciating FG Efforts, Attacking the Minister

Arewa Forum for Good Governance has come out to defend the media statement credited to Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris over the insecurity situation in Borno State after the recent Boko Haram attack in Damboa.

According to the group, the information Minister couldn’t have been ignorant or naive to speak flippantly about the loss of lives of the citizens in Maiduguri with levity.

The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum had criticised the the Minister he described as “naive” about the country’s security realities following a deadly Boko Haram attack on the Damboa-Maiduguri Road that left eight people dead , seven others injured, and 14 with minor injuries.

In a reaction to the Governor Zulum ‘s statement, Arewa Forum for Good Governance in a statement signed by the Secretary, Comrade Yushau Mahmood disclosed ,”The Minister of Information was not only misquoted by the media, but also misconstrued by Governor Zulum,who faulted the minister’s remarks based on media report and not position of the government about the incident

The statement further reads :”Governor Zulum reacted to the media report which quoted the information Minister to have said “Ignore Zulum, Boko Haram is not taking over Borno.”

“And we have investigated and discovered that such a headline was not only sensational but deliberately crafted as a deliberate act of misinformation to distract the public from the serious work the Federal Government is doing to address security challenges.

“We have known Zulum to be one Governor that has always being passionate and committed about providing security and dividends of democracy for the good people of Borno,but we are worried about his recent reactions to the media headlines.

“There is no doubt that current wave of insecurity in the North needs serious attention, however ,there is a need for Borno Government and federal Government to work together to provide permanent solutions and not fault finding.

Most worrisome is the unnecessary statements of Senator Ali Ndume on the attack . We are surprised that Senator Ndume, a former Chairman ,House Committee on Army,who is expected to more knowledgeable about efforts put in to contain the security challenges in Borno and other past of the North in last twenty months could come out to criticise the Minister of Information , claiming he dismissed warnings from the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, about the resurgence of insurgency in the state.

For us ,as the voice of good governance in the North attributing a title such as ,” Minister of Misinformation” to a hardworking Minister like Mohammed Idris speaks volumes about him as a man with low character.