Category Archives: Uncategorized

A coalition of political support groups and stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State has thrown its weight behind Shehu Sani as the consensus candidate for Kaduna Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The coalition, which comprises youth groups, women associations, party mobilizers, grassroots campaign structures and community leaders drawn from the seven local government areas of Kaduna Central, announced its position during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Kaduna.

According to the groups, the endorsement of the former senator followed extensive consultations among party stakeholders and supporters across the zone who considered Sani’s track record, accessibility and constituency projects during his tenure in the National Assembly between 2015 and 2019.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Convener, Comrade Musa Ibrahim, said the decision to support Sani was based on what he described as “visible achievements, courage, and people-oriented representation.”

He noted that during his time in the Senate, Sani facilitated several developmental projects across Kaduna Central, including the construction and equipping of primary healthcare centres, educational support programmes, rural infrastructure and empowerment initiatives targeted at youths and women.

According to him, many residents of the senatorial district still remember the former lawmaker for maintaining close contact with constituents and consistently speaking on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians both at the state and national levels.

“The coalition carefully reviewed the political situation in Kaduna Central and resolved that Senator Shehu Sani remains the most experienced, accepted and credible aspirant capable of uniting the party and delivering victory for the APC in 2027,” Ibrahim said.

He added that the groups were particularly impressed by Sani’s long-standing involvement in human rights advocacy, democratic struggles and grassroots mobilization, describing him as a politician with “deep connection to the masses.”

The coalition further argued that Sani’s return to the Senate would strengthen legislative representation for Kaduna Central due to his experience, national visibility and understanding of the challenges confronting the district.

In an interview,another stakeholder, Hajiya Zainab Mohammed, said women and youth groups across the zone were supporting the former senator because of his inclusive style of leadership and accessibility while in office.

She stated that many beneficiaries of scholarships, empowerment schemes and social intervention programmes initiated during Sani’s tenure still identify with his leadership style.

“We believe Senator Shehu Sani has the capacity to effectively represent Kaduna Central again. He is accessible, outspoken and understands the needs of the people. That is why many groups have resolved to support him as consensus candidate,” she said.

The coalition also appealed to other aspirants and party leaders within the APC to work towards unity and avoid actions capable of creating divisions ahead of the elections.

According to the groups, adopting a consensus arrangement would help strengthen the party’s chances and ensure a rancour-free primary process in Kaduna Central.

Political observers believe the endorsement may further boost Sani’s growing political momentum within the APC following recent alignments and consultations among party stakeholders across the state.

Although the APC is yet to officially commence its primary process for the 2027 elections, political activities and consultations have continued to intensify across Kaduna State as aspirants position themselves for key elective offices.

By Alice Ojuila

In a move that redefines civil-military relations in Nigeria’s troubled northern region, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Retired) OFR, has thrown the weight of his office behind an ambitious youth-led coalition, urging young people to weaponize social media platforms—including TikTok—in the fight against misinformation, drug abuse, and communal violence.

The announcement came during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja, where a powerful coalition of civil society groups, including the Forum for Youth Development, Unity & Peace Initiative (FYDUPI), the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), Ethnic Nationality Groups of Northern Nigeria, and the Christian Youth Alliance, presented a comprehensive proposal on strengthening national security through coordinated youth and community engagement.

The delegation, led by Comrade Abdul Danbature, who also serves as President of the Arewa Youth Assembly, was received with remarkable warmth by General Musa and his team.

Describing the parley as “productive and impactful,” the group laid out a seven-point action plan that includes promoting peaceful coexistence between different religions and communities, uniting youth and women across Northern Nigeria, supporting community-based intelligence sharing with security agencies, strengthening grassroots peacebuilding efforts, combating drug abuse among young people, promoting the achievements of government and the military, and empowering youth for productive engagement.

—

Minister’s Response: A Call to Action

In his response, General Musa did not mince words.

He declared that the three greatest enemies of northern stability today are ignorance, social anomalies, and misinformation.

“These cannot be fought with bullets alone,” the Minister told the delegation. “They must be fought with education, sustained engagement, and the right information.”

Breaking sharply from the typical official skepticism toward new media, the retired General specifically endorsed the use of short-form video platforms as instruments for social reengineering.

“I encourage the use of social media platforms, including TikTok, as tools for promoting positive values and public good,” General Musa said, urging young people to take control of the digital narrative and flood it with messages of tolerance, unity, and factual information about government and military efforts.

The Minister also emphasized the critical importance of peace, unity, and continuous advocacy for social cohesion, noting that the Ministry of Defence is keen to partner with credible civil society groups that understand the local terrain and can reach the grassroots effectively.

—

An Award and A Covenant

In a significant symbolic gesture that underscored the potential of the initiative, General Musa personally presented the delegation with an award in recognition of their proposal and its potential for long-term collaboration in support of national security and social stability.

The award was received on behalf of the coalition by Comrade Danbature, who described the moment as a turning point in civil-military relations in Northern Nigeria.

“This is not a photo opportunity,” Danbature said. “This is a covenant. We are encouraged by the Minister’s keen interest and thoughtful engagement. FYDUPI remains dedicated to fostering a safer, more united, and resilient Northern Nigeria.”

—

What Comes Next

The coalition, which cuts across religious and ethnic lines, says its immediate next steps include launching grassroots sensitization campaigns across the northern states, training youth leaders in responsible information sharing, and using digital platforms to counter extremist narratives.

The group also plans to roll out programs aimed at reducing drug abuse among young people, which the Minister had earlier identified as a key driver of insecurity across the region.

FYDUPI, in its concluding statement, reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Ministry of Defence and other relevant stakeholders to deliver community-driven solutions that support peace, unity, and national development.

A New Chapter

The development signals a growing recognition within Nigeria’s defence establishment that lasting security cannot be achieved by military might alone.

Winning the battle for information, social trust, and the hearts of young people, the Minister appears to believe, is just as critical as winning battles on the ground.

With the full backing of the Defence Ministry, the youth coalition now appears poised to take its message to every corner of Northern Nigeria—one TikTok video, one town hall meeting, and one rehabilitated young person at a time.

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone have endorsed former senator, Shehu Sani, as their preferred candidate ahead of the party’s primaries for the 2027 general elections.

The endorsement was announced on Wednesday at a meeting attended by commissioners, local government chairmen, party executives and key political figures from the seven local government areas in the zone.

The gathering, which took place at the Uba Sani Support Group office in Malali, Kaduna, drew a large number of supporters and influential stakeholders within the state.

Convener of the meeting and Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos, said the endorsement followed extensive consultations among party leaders and stakeholders across the zone.

He clarified that the APC remains open to all aspirants, stressing that the party is not restricting anyone from contesting the primaries. However, he noted that stakeholders unanimously agreed to adopt Shehu Sani as a consensus candidate in view of his experience and political track record.

According to Lagos, the decision was driven by the need to present a candidate with proven capacity, credibility and national recognition.

“We have resolved that Shehu Sani is our choice for Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone. He is experienced, tested and widely known as a quality material to represent the good people of Kaduna in the Senate,” he said.

He further expressed confidence that the endorsement would strengthen the APC’s chances in the 2027 elections, adding that the party would secure overwhelming victories for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani.

Other party leaders, including local government council chairmen and executives who spoke at the event, also highlighted Shehu Sani’s legislative experience and his perceived ability to attract development projects to the state.

In his response, Shehu Sani expressed appreciation to the stakeholders for the confidence reposed in him. He particularly thanked Governor Uba Sani for his support, as well as the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs for coordinating the endorsement meeting.

The former lawmaker, who represented Kaduna Central in the Senate from 2015 to 2019, pledged to provide quality representation if elected, promising to attract meaningful projects and ensure the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.

He also called on residents of Kaduna State to support and vote for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in the forthcoming elections, urging unity and collective action in the interest of equity, justice and fairness.

By Our Correspondent

The Abia State Government has officially commenced the process of establishing a Study Centre of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Aba, the state’s major commercial hub.

Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education and the Managing Director of the Greater Aba Development Authority to immediately begin the search for a temporary site for the study centre. This interim measure will be in place pending the construction of a permanent, befitting centre in the area.

The Governor gave the directive following a formal request for policy direction from the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s country home in Umuehim, Nvosi, Isiala-Ngwa South Local Government Area.

Dr. Otti emphasized that Aba, given its strategic importance, cannot afford to lag behind in open and distance education.

“Aba being a major commercial hub in the state cannot afford the luxury of being behind without a centre of NOUN,” the Governor stated.

He further highlighted the evolution of open and distance learning through technology. “Open and distance learning over the years has transformed using technology. Applications like Google Meet and Zoom have facilitated meetings and the transfer of knowledge. In view of the role NOUN is playing in advancing education, it’s a no-brainer; Aba has to get a study centre.”

Governor Otti reassured the university of his administration’s commitment to educational development.

“As a responsible government, the state is committed to educational development through the hiring, training, and retraining of teachers. We will provide all the support you need for the actualisation of a centre in Aba,” he said.

In addition, the Governor directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Uche, to assess the Umuahia Study Centre of the university and determine how the government can assist in improving its facilities to create a better learning environment.

Earlier in his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma, explained that NOUN prides itself not only on open and distance learning but also on access and inclusiveness in all its activities.

“The study centres are instruments of access, and Aba being one of the largest cities in the country cannot be denied such access to education,” Prof. Uduma said.

He noted that NOUN, as an institution that reflects the federal character, is willing to partner with any government or institution in creating access to education that allows people to express themselves freely.

The Vice-Chancellor underscored the growing global importance of Open and Distance Learning (ODL), noting that it has prompted other universities in the country to operate a dual mode of education delivery.

He thanked the Governor for his hospitality and for agreeing to host him and the university management despite the demanding schedule of his office.

Former lawmaker representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has officially picked up the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District seat.

The development signals his formal entry into the race ahead of the forthcoming electoral cycle, as political activities continue to gather momentum within the ruling party.

Sani, a rights activist-turned-politician, previously represented Kaduna Central in the Senate and remains a prominent voice in Nigeria’s political landscape. His decision to secure the APC forms is expected to shape the dynamics of the contest in the district, given his grassroots appeal and political experience.

Party stakeholders and observers say the move could trigger heightened competition among aspirants jostling for the APC ticket in Kaduna Central.

FCT-Abuja — Hon. Abubakar Umar Abdullahi has formally accepted the call to contest for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate seat at the National Assembly.

The decision, announced in a statement released today, follows what his campaign describes as a series of consultations and passionate appeals from stakeholders, youth, women, and residents across the territory.

Hon. Abdullahi expressed deep gratitude to his supporters, stating, “I sincerely appreciate each and every one of you for your trust, confidence, and belief in my leadership.”

He framed his candidacy within a context of divine guidance, saying, “Leadership comes from Almighty Allah, and He grants it to whom He wills. We pray that He makes us the best choice and grants us victory. Ameen.”

The statement concluded with a call for unity: “Together, we can make the FCT greater.”

Hon. Abdullahi has pledged to represent the interests, aspirations, and future of all FCT residents with dedication and integrity if elected.

Further details about his campaign platform and timelines are expected in the coming weeks.

By Adah Sharma 

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), alongside the Forum for Youth Development Unity & Peace Initiative and 11 other civil society organisations, has lauded the Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem, for what it described as impactful reforms and disciplined leadership in the administration of military pensions.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to journalists, the coalition said the Board under Abdulraheem has distinguished itself as a model of transparency, efficiency, and accountability—particularly in ensuring the timely and consistent payment of entitlements to retired military personnel.

President of AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, who signed the statement on behalf of the coalition, noted that the current administration of the Board represents a clear shift from years of delays and administrative setbacks that had long plagued pension management in the military.

“The timely and consistent payment of retired military personnel under his leadership is not just commendable—it is exemplary and transformative,” Danbature stated.

He observed that pension administration within the military had historically been burdened by inefficiencies, but stressed that recent reforms have significantly improved service delivery, restoring confidence among retirees.

According to the coalition, notable strides recorded by the Board include improved operational efficiency, elimination of bureaucratic bottlenecks, and the adoption of a people-oriented approach that places priority on accountability and the welfare of pensioners.

“This remarkable turnaround reflects a clear vision for institutional reform and a commitment to service. This is leadership that delivers and reform that works,” the statement added.

The group also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Abdulraheem to lead the Board, describing the decision as both strategic and productive. It noted that the results achieved so far demonstrate a broader commitment by the administration to strengthening governance structures and enhancing public sector performance.

While urging the Military Pensions Board to sustain and consolidate the gains made, the coalition called on other government agencies to emulate the Board’s standards of efficiency and service delivery.

AYAGL further reaffirmed its commitment to advancing good governance, transparency, and responsible leadership across Nigeria, emphasizing that effective leadership remains critical to national development.

“When leadership works with integrity, the people benefit. Today, we celebrate such leadership,” the statement concluded.

ENDS

Full Story:

In a major step to expand renewable energy across Nigerian tertiary institutions, the Federal Government has flagged off a 2-megawatt solar mini-grid project and commissioned 200 solar-powered streetlights at the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), Wudil, Kano State.

The intervention, implemented under the Energy Commission of Nigeria’s (ECN) renewable energy and sustainable power programme, aims to improve electricity supply on campus, enhance security via solar lighting, and boost research in clean energy technologies.

Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, praised ECN’s technical leadership, stating:

“The Energy Commission of Nigeria has done exemplary technical work to bring us to this point, following rigorous energy audits, demand assessments, and validated system specifications.”

He gave the contractor a firm three-month deadline, warning: “The contractor has a clear, firm mandate: to deliver within three months, to specification, with no tolerance for variation, and my ministry will hold them to that mandate.”

The event also saw the renaming of the Engineering Faculty Complex as the Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha Complex, in honour of the ECN Director-General’s contributions to national energy development and institutional collaboration.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Musa Tukur Yakasai, further honoured Dr. Mustapha with an Outstanding Award, noting that the recognition reflects his exceptional achievements and enduring impact in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Dr. Mustapha, a 2009 engineering graduate of ADUSTECH, described the moment as symbolic—a full-circle journey from student to national energy leader.

He reaffirmed ECN’s commitment to Nigeria’s energy transition through practical, impact-driven projects, adding:

· The 2MW solar mini-grid is a scalable model for decentralised energy solutions.
· The 200 solar-powered streetlights will significantly improve safety and extend academic and social activities on campus.

The ceremony was attended by the Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Aliyu Abdulkadir; the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Musa Tukur Yakasai; and the Director-General of SHESTCO, Dr. Magaji Da’u Aliyu.

Dr. Mustapha expressed sincere appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the laudable initiative, stating it continues to drive sustainable energy development and expand access to clean power across Nigeria.

By Baba Elegbe

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has praised the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPCL) Mele Kolo Kyari, describing his tenure as a defining period marked by reforms, transparency and humanitarian impact.

In a press statement issued and signed by its President, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group said Kyari’s leadership from 2019 to 2025 repositioned the national oil company and restored public confidence in the petroleum sector.

AYAGL noted that Kyari introduced the Transparency, Accountability and Performance (TAPE) agenda, which it said transformed operational standards within NNPCL. It highlighted the consistent publication of audited financial statements as a major shift from decades of opacity in the sector.

The group also credited him with driving the commercialization of NNPCL in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, alongside improvements in operational efficiency through digitisation and stronger governance structures.

On fuel pricing, AYAGL said Kyari demonstrated strategic leadership during Nigeria’s transition to deregulation. It noted that his approach helped maintain relative stability in fuel supply and pricing despite global market volatility, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The statement further acknowledged investments in critical infrastructure under his leadership, including the rehabilitation of refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna, as well as progress on the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline Project. It added that enhanced pipeline surveillance contributed to efforts to curb crude oil theft.

AYAGL said Kyari’s “Decade of Gas” initiative laid a foundation for cleaner energy development and industrial growth, while also strengthening Nigeria’s position in global energy diplomacy.

Beyond policy and infrastructure, the group emphasised Kyari’s humanitarian contributions. It cited NNPCL’s expanded healthcare interventions, educational support programmes, and community development projects, including water supply, school rehabilitation and rural electrification.

It also noted his support for internally displaced persons in the North-East and his commitment to youth empowerment and mentorship within the oil and gas industry.

“Many of his personal philanthropic efforts were carried out quietly, reflecting humility and a genuine desire to impact lives,” the statement said.

AYAGL further commended Kyari for ensuring energy supply stability during election periods and maintaining institutional neutrality, which it said contributed to national stability and democratic continuity.

The group concluded that Kyari’s tenure represents “a legacy of reform, resilience and compassion,” urging future leaders to emulate his commitment to integrity, service and inclusive development.

ENDS

On April 22, dignitaries from across Nigeria’s political, traditional, and socio-economic spectrum converged on Kaduna for an event that was as symbolic as it was historic the commissioning of the state’s newly constructed Banquet Hall.

For the first time since Kaduna State’s creation in 1967, former governors including Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, Namadi Sambo, and Mukhtar Ramalan Yero,gathered under one roof alongside an array of political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders. The moment was more than ceremonial; it was deeply symbolic of reconciliation and unity.

At the heart of this convergence is a vision championed by Governor Uba Sani to create a space deliberately designed to foster dialogue, partnerships, and investment.

Beyond Steel and Glass
By all appearances, the Banquet Hall is an architectural statement,an imposing structure of steel and glass built with ambition. Yet beyond its physical presence, it represents something far more profound: a renewed civic identity for a state long shaped by diversity and complexity.

The facility, inaugurated by Vice President Kashim Shettima at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, was not merely unveiled as another public building. It was introduced as a strategic instrument for governance,one designed to bring people together under a shared roof.

Named after Abba Kyari, the state-of-the-art hall boasts a seating capacity of about 1,300 and spans approximately 2.7 hectares. It fills a long-standing infrastructural gap in Kaduna, providing a venue capable of hosting high-level engagements,from diplomatic meetings to cultural exhibitions and investment summits.

A Space for Dialogue in a Complex State
Kaduna has historically held a central role in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape. However, like many states in northern Nigeria, it has also faced challenges, ethno-religious tensions, security concerns, and political divisions.

Against this backdrop, the Banquet Hall emerges as more than a venue; it is a deliberate attempt to create a shared civic space.

Governor Sani emphasized during the commissioning that the project is not just about infrastructure, but about strengthening governance and encouraging meaningful engagement.

“This is a strategic investment in institutional capacity,” he said, underscoring its role in fostering policy dialogue and partnerships.

By hosting events such as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Week, intergovernmental forums, and stakeholder engagements, the hall provides a neutral ground where individuals from diverse backgrounds can interact constructively.
Repositioning Kaduna on the Global Stage
Central to Governor Sani’s broader vision is repositioning Kaduna as a hub for national and international engagement. The Banquet Hall is a cornerstone of that ambition.

Designed to meet global standards, the facility is expected to attract conferences, diplomatic missions, and investors,activities that can stimulate economic growth while reshaping perceptions about the state.

Vice President Shettima described the project as a reflection of “purposeful leadership,” noting its potential to strengthen institutions and deepen national cohesion.

Unity Through Shared Experience
Unity is rarely achieved through rhetoric alone,it is built through shared experiences. The Banquet Hall provides precisely that opportunity.

Each event hosted within its walls, whether a policy dialogue, cultural showcase, or regional summit,adds to a growing narrative: that Kaduna is not merely defined by its challenges, but by its capacity to serve as a meeting point of ideas and opportunities.

Stakeholders present at the commissioning described the project as a “magnificent achievement” and a “strategic investment in governance,” highlighting its potential to redefine public engagement in the state.

A Political Statement in Concrete Form
Infrastructure often carries political meaning, and this project is no exception. For Governor Sani, the Banquet Hall signals a shift toward inclusive governance, one rooted in openness, communication, and institutional strength.
It also reflects a deliberate effort to rebuild trust. By investing in a space designed for interaction and accessibility, the administration is making a clear statement: governance must be participatory and visible.

The Road Ahead
While a single structure cannot resolve all of Kaduna’s challenges, it can set a tone. The true measure of the Banquet Hall’s impact will lie in how it is utilized, how often it hosts meaningful dialogue, how inclusive those conversations are, and how effectively they translate into tangible outcomes for citizens.

If fully leveraged, the facility could become a cornerstone of Kaduna’s transformation, a place where differences are negotiated, partnerships are forged, and unity is actively practiced.

In a region often defined by its divisions, the Kaduna Banquet Hall offers a different narrative, one of convergence, possibility, and shared purpose.
Sometimes, unity begins with something as simple and as powerful as bringing people together in the same room.

By Uba Sani Continuity Project