Author Archives: News All Around

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.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

In a groundbreaking move, Honorable Fatima Talba has unveiled a revolutionary youth empowerment program in her constituency, tackling unemployment and promoting entrepreneurship head-on. This trailblazing initiative, implemented in partnership with SMEDAN and Arewa Ears Community Development Forum, is set to equip young individuals with essential skills and knowledge to succeed in various fields.

Key Features of the Program:

– Vocational training in tailoring, carpentry, computer technology, and agricultural entrepreneurship

– Support for business establishment and entrepreneurship development

– Focus on promoting self-employment and reducing dependency on government jobs

Strategic Partnership with SMEDAN and AREWA EARS

Hon. Fatima Talba’s collaboration with SMEDAN, and Arewa ears, a renowned agency with expertise in empowering small and medium enterprises, ensures that the program is well-structured and effective. This partnership is expected to yield positive results, as small and medium enterprises are the backbone of any economy.

Promoting Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment

Through this program, Hon. Fatima Talba is promoting the spirit of entrepreneurship among young people, encouraging them to take ownership of their futures. This initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of young people in the area, empowering them to become self-sufficient and contribute to the economic growth of their community.

High-Profile Launch Event

The launch of the program was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Yobe State, Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, and the Director-General of SMEDAN, Charles Ordi. Other attendees included the Chairmen of Nangere and Potiskum Local Governments, several commissioners and Permanent Secretaries, and the Founder and CEO of Arewa Ears, Cmr. Mu’azu Muhammad.

A Commendable Effort

Hon. Fatima Talba’s youth empowerment program is a commendable effort that deserves support from all stakeholders. The program has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of young people in the area, and its success could serve as a model for other politicians to replicate in their respective constituencies.

In his speech at the launch of the youth empowerment program, the Deputy Governor commended Hajia Fatsuma Talba for her efforts in promoting entrepreneurship and self-employment among young people. He praised her commitment to the development of Yobe State and her dedication to empowering the youth.

Similarly, Comrade Muazu Muhammad, Founder and CEO of Arewa Ears Community Development Forum, has commended the collaborative effort between Honorable Fatima Talba, SMEDAN, and Arewa Ears Community Development Forum. He praised the initiative, noting that it will greatly benefit the youth of Northern Nigeria and the country as a whole 

Muazu Muhammad pledged to continue supporting the development collaboration, which aims to empower young men and women. He also applauded Honorable Fatima Talba for taking the bold initiative, stating that she has earned a lasting reputation for herself. According to Muhammad, Talba’s efforts have “cast her name in gold,” a testament to her dedication to the development of her community.

The success of this program will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the lives of young people in Yobe State, and Hon. Fatima Talba’s initiative is a shining example of effective governance and development.

By Ibrahim H Tinja.

One-time former permanent representative of Nigeria at the united nations late Maitama Sule, a politician of high refute, and elderly stateman who held the Danmasanin Kano, a chieftaincy titled given to talented and a respected person in the northern land says, “the joy of a dying father is the presence of a worthy successor”. As aptly, opined by the diplomat the late Dan Masanin Kano, the new man saddled with the responsibility of harnessing the objectives and mission of SMEDAN Charles Odii, has so set a flank to complements the lofty goals of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is in tandem with the modus operandi for successful voyage to the SME business in Nigeria.
Less than a year into the office, the director general of the SMEDAN began to change the story of the organization by stressing on the president’s mission to work on the modalities to cleanse and aid business within the tame line of the those expected to benefits and guided lawfully. This is why he’s receiving commendations from all and sundry.
The Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii, started his impactful initiatives resulting in the creation of  over 30,000 jobs across the country which is the bedrock of grooming a self-dependent country, and ensured the facilitation of over 7 billion naira in funding for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) considering its importance to a productive nation.  He also introduces a seven-point prosperity agenda focusing on providing SMEs with access to finance, markets, capacity building, partnerships, a business-friendly environment, and streamlined processes for sustainable growth. Achieving key milestones in less a year, he implemented reforms at SMEDAN, incorporating digital and data-driven approaches to address challenges hindering SME growth and foster prosperity.
Mr. Odii’s appointment as the head of the agency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu based on his extensive contributions to the MSME sector, including the design and execution of projects that highlight and facilitate support for small businesses in Nigeria and across the continent as well as his unblemished record in public service he dedicates himself to. This why president Tinubu is receiving kudos for choosing a patriot.
These accomplishments align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda for inclusive economic growth and poverty eradication among various class of Nigerians. Mr. Odii’s success distinguishes him as a key contributor to the administration’s goals, impacting grassroots communities and laying the foundation for rapid rural industrialization, a crucial solution to Nigeria’s economic challenges as a deliberate intention to nail dwindling economic fluctuation instead to chart a course for a lasting panacea to all sorts of poverty and over dependence.
Within a spine of time sanity have been brought to the SMEDAN, hope and confidence been rejigged among staffs. Truancy being addressed, diversion of responsibility is encouraged to better output of the SMEDAN.
One remarkable trait that distinguishes DG Charles Odii among his peers elsewhere is that, he has a listening ear and is not arrogant as not to accept advice or counsel from those he associates with (be it young or old). As a demonstration of his readiness to carry the people along with him, the first thing he began shortly after preparing his mind to serve to the people freely as part of developmental voyage was seeking divine intervention to a smooth discharge of SMEDAN’s objectives which tally with president’s mandate for a better Nigeria.
Like a magic, Charles coming restores the fading glory of SMEDAN, youths and women are overwhelmed for having a prosperous life through the multiple drives been implemented  that is directly impacting on their lives and businesses, poor Nigerians are now raising their head high with joy,  hailing president Tinubu for a rightful decision to bring a loyal person with proven integrity and steadfast to ensuring proper actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
I’m not Nostradamus, but, I’m affirmative before ending of 2025 Director Genaral Odii, will totally overhaul SMEADAN to Nigeria’s number one job providing place and no iorta of poverty will remain in our loved nation.

By Blessing I. Okoro

Kaduna, Nigeria – December 25, 2024

As Christmas celebrations unfold across Kaduna State, Hon. Dr. Nita Byack George, Immediate Past Administrator of Jaba Local Government Area, has extended warm greetings to the people of Kaduna, commending Governor Senator Uba Sani’s exemplary leadership.

In a press statement released today, Dr. George acknowledged the significance of Christmas as a celebration of God’s gift of love to humanity. “Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ, is celebrated across the globe to reflect God’s gift of love to mankind, and we in Kaduna are part of this celebration,” she said.

Dr. George expressed her belief that everyone will celebrate within their means, sharing God’s love and reflecting on His blessings and mercies. “I believe that everyone alive will celebrate within his or her ability, sharing God’s love and reflecting God’s blessings and mercies over the years and years to come,” she added.

Dr. George also praised Governor Sani’s commitment to unity, citing his selfless efforts to promote peace, love, and harmony among Kaduna’s diverse communities. “His selfless efforts to promote peace, love, and harmony among the diverse communities in Kaduna State are truly commendable,” she said. “Indeed, he has proven himself to be a governor for all, regardless of tribe, religion, or background.”

Furthermore, Dr. George encouraged the people of Jaba Local Government to support their Chairperson, Hon. Larai Sylvia Ishaku, who is working tirelessly to build a peaceful and prosperous local council. “To our wonderful people of Jaba Local Government, I enjoin you to support our able Chairperson, Hon. Larai Sylvia Ishaku, who is leaving no stone unturned towards building a great peaceful and prosperous local council for all,” she said.

As the state looks forward to the new year, Dr. George emphasized the importance of working together to build a more peaceful, prosperous, and harmonious Kaduna State. “As we look forward to the new year 2025, let us continue to work together towards building a more peaceful, prosperous, and harmonious Kaduna State,” she said.

Dr. George’s message concluded with a prayer for God’s blessings on the state and its people, wishing everyone a

BY UJAH EVELYN
Kaduna

As part of end of year activities preparatory to the celebration of Christmas, the Seat of God (SOG) ministries hosted over 1000 of both members of the church and non-members to a get-together.

The get-together followed a thanksgiving service where praises and prayers were offered in appreciation to the Almighty God as many testified to the goodness of God over their lives and those of their families from January to December 2024.

Aside from the get-together which involved dining and winning, the church also distributed food items and cash to members and non-members as a way of reaching out to those in need.

Earlier in his sermon during the thanksgiving service, His Lordship, Bishop Ademola Tinuoye charged the congregants to always have a reason to thank God, stressing that if for nothing at all, at least because they are counted among the living.

“A grateful heart will always be thankful, when you are thankful to God, he will always do more for you,” he said, citing how ten lepers were healed but only one returned, and only that one was made whole.

He emphasized that thankfulness is the gate pass to the presence of God, adding that when we are thankful to God for what he has done, God will not only perfect it, he will do more.

Some of the beneficiaries of the food items and cash commended the church for its magnanimity and prayed God to increase the ministry.

For Mrs. Dorathy Ejimatswa, “I am indeed grateful for the show of love; we were fed with sumptuous food and thereafter given food items and cash. May God bless the church, I am grateful to the Church and the Bishop.”