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By Mairo Magana

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has endorsed Adeola Ajayi as the new Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), appointed by President Bola Tinubu. NAN’s chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, expressed the organization’s firm belief that Ajayi’s leadership will bring a transformative approach to national security and stability in Nigeria.

NAN’s endorsement is based on Ajayi’s impressive track record, particularly his successful interventions in states beset by insecurity, including Kogi, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, and Plateau. His proactive and effective measures have mitigated security threats and fostered communal harmony.

Ajayi’s decisive actions in Bauchi and Plateau States have resulted in significant drops in violent incidents, allowing citizens to reclaim a sense of safety. His strategic operations in Kogi led to the neutralization of the insurgent group Ansaru, demonstrating his capability and commitment to national security.

NAN regards Ajayi’s appointment as a strategic and timely decision by President Tinubu, amidst ongoing security challenges. The organization anticipates that Ajayi’s leadership will embody a more covert and intelligence-driven approach, enhancing the operational effectiveness of the DSS.

NAN calls upon all stakeholders to rally behind Ajayi, urging citizens to exhibit patience, cooperation, and understanding as he embarks on his crucial mandate. They emphasize that this collaborative spirit is vital in establishing an enabling environment that will empower Ajayi to fulfill his vision for a secure and stable nation.

Recognizing the specific security challenges faced in the North, NAN remains optimistic that Ajayi’s deep-rooted understanding of these issues will aid in restoring peace and order throughout the area. The organization believes that exemplary leadership characterized by integrity, professionalism, and community engagement possesses the potential to positively transform Nigeria’s security landscape.

As the nation transitions into a new phase of security strategies under Ajayi’s leadership, NAN stands ready to support his efforts in reinforcing public confidence in the state security apparatus. The coming months are pivotal for assessing the impact of his strategies on national security. NAN encourages all Nigerians to unite in support of Adeola Ajayi, fostering a unified front against the ongoing challenges of insecurity and its profound implications for the future of our country.

by Sandra Ukeredi

The Yoruba Youth Council has condemned an online post credited to a former aide of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, one Daniel Bwala, who suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle (State) might be sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he perceived as lack of cooperation between the Army and the Air Force. Bwala had in a post on his X handle on Sunday insinuated that his perception caused the seizure by bandits of Nigerian military armoured vehicles somewhere in Zamfara State in the Northwest region, leading to a reported video victory celebration by terrorism kingpin Bello Turji and his armed bandits.

Reacting through its leader, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the umbrella Yoruba Youth organisation said: “We wish to state that Bwala just expressed his jaundiced personal opinion to which he is entitled. ‘A keen, careful reading of this shows that his wrong and misleading opinion had an undertone of selfish interest, which he portrayed erroneously as a news story to hoodwink the unwary, and instigate hostility against the persons of the performing ministers for reason(s) best known to him.

“It also shows that he has a hidden agenda in pushing such an unintelligible and illogical opinion to the media space. It was an opinion that brimmed with vendetta, the destructive, and blind pull-him-down syndrome hosted by the writer, his co-travelers and paymasters alone.

“The post was fictitious, cooked out of beer-parlour stupor and borne out of the writer’s wild and reckless imagination. ‘The Presidency never said anything of such. The post was not attributed to anybody. The emergency and mercenary reporter only pushed his personal opinion and wish to the media space. He reported no one but himself, and thereby showed the type of a human being he is. One who should not be taken seriously by right-thinking persons.

“And who is this writer of falsehood? ‘Daniel Bwala was a member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP, working with that party’s former presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but who is now looking for ways to identify himself with the Tinubu administration. He has been lobbying that he should be appointed as the president’s spokesman.

“However, Yoruba youths advise that such a character cannot be trusted in that the Borno State-born politician, Bwala, portrays himself as a betrayal, as his antecedents show. “A former member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, where he served as a thorn in the opposition PDP’s flesh, he decamped from APC in July, 2023 claiming that he was not convinced in the Ahmed Tinubu/ Kashim Shettima same-faith joint on muslim-Muslim ticket. He said that he would not support any ticket that allegedly excluded a major section of the country from democracy dividends.

“He then jumped into the boat of Tinubu’s most fearsome opponent and the PDP”s presidential flag bearer, Atiku, He immediately became Atiku’s spokesperson, and maligned Tinubu whom he said he held in respect despite his initial promise.” Oluwole said: “In view of his antecedents, and the implications of the utter falsehood that he peddles concerning this sensitive issue, Bwala should be cautioned not to jeopardize the commendable efforts of the Nigerian security apparatus especially the office of the Minister of State of Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

“Where on Earth did he confirm that the ministers might “be shown the way out”? “We see his post as a baseless attack on the persons of the Defence ministers who have been leading the Nigeria’s security apparatus, especially the Armed Forces in the gallant fight against terrorists and bandits who, for many years before this administration assumed office, had been attacking and killing innocent Nigerians not only in the Northeast and Northwest zones of the country, but across the country generally.”

In his words: Oluwole said: “We wish to state, and it may interest Bwala to know that the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle has swiftly moved in and directed the military to relocate its command structure to the North West as part of efforts to crush the bandits terroring the region.”

“And the fictitious writer insinuated in his post that the ministers were not working and that there was no harmony among the armed forces, the same armed forces that Matawalle has mobilised to the troubled zone to flush out the bandits, an operation he would supervise himself directly on the battlefield.

“We will advise Bwala, and his cohorts and paymasters to desist from peddling lies and falsehood just to malign their perceived enemies” Specifically on Sunday, Matawalle, in an

Musa Kankara

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the recent remarks made by Daniel Bwala, a former aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, concerning the security apparatus under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Mr. Bwala in his comment suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle, might be shown the exit door which the leadership of AYCF find such statement as not only unfounded but also a diversion from the real issues that plague our region and nation.

A statement issued by the President General of AYCF Yerima Shettima reminded Mr. Bwala of his positions during the recent electoral cycle. His open opposition to the Tinubu candidacy and his support for Mr. Atiku Abubakar which positioned him on the other side of the political divide.

It begs the question: where exactly was Mr. Bwala when the electorate strongly endorsed President Tinubu’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria? His sudden shift to become a self-styled supporter of this administration raises eyebrows about his motivations and credibility, Shettima said.

He further stated that it is imperative for stakeholders in our political landscape to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to unfounded attacks on individuals who are collectively working towards the primary goal of securing the North, adding that Ministers Badaru and Matawalle have made significant strides in addressing the unique security challenges that our region faces.

“We commend their efforts and encourage their continued service in cracking down on insecurity, which remains a pressing concern for all northerners. Furthermore, we take exception to Mr. Bwala’s thinly veiled ambition as he appears to be attempting to usurp the narrative for his own gain.

“We remember his earlier declaration about aspiring to hold the position of Mr Ngilari, which could have influenced his harsh rhetoric against established leaders who are dedicated to the safety and advancement of our communities”.

The AYCF said, Bwala ‘s motives come into question when juxtaposed with the realities faced by the North, which requires unity and cooperation rather than divisive political machinations.

“As representatives of the northern youth, we express concern over any attempts to undermine President Tinubu’s administration through baseless criticisms. The ongoing initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the region deserve the support of all stakeholders, including critiquing voices.

“It is precisely this spirit of collaboration towards a common goal that we hope Mr. Bwala can embrace rather than spiral into personal grievances. We caution President Tinubu to be wary of allowing such individuals to undermine his reputation and initiatives within the North.

“The youth of Arewa stand firmly behind those in positions of leadership who are genuinely focused on the security and welfare of our people. Our collective will is directed towards recovery and proactive measures that can only be realized through steadfast leadership and dialogue, eschewing the toxicity of political opportunism.

“We urge Mr. Bwala to redirect his energies to addressing his self-created challenges and refrain from disparaging ministers who are striving to create a safer, more secure North. The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum remains committed to holding accountable not only public officials for their responsibilities but also those who would seek to mislead the public or distract from crucial efforts underway” the statement stressed.

by Moses Abu

NWSF Hails Federal Government’s Determined Effort to Eradicate Banditry

The North-West Solidarity Forum (NWSF) expresses its profound support for the recent directive issued by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, to mobilize the Chief of Defence Staff and senior military officials to Sokoto. This strategic move aims to enhance joint military operations against the dangerous bandits wreaking havoc in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

NWSF commended the minister’s commitment to allocate the necessary resources for the eradication of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his criminal gang. This decisive action follows the alarming dissemination of videos showing a Nigerian military armored vehicle immobilized in a waterlogged region of Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

Such bold leadership is both encouraging and reassuring to our communities suffering from the scourge of banditry. According to a statement signed by the spokesperson of the group Tanimu Danlawal, the presence of Minister Matawalle and the Service Chiefs in the North-West signifies a determined effort to oversee military operations firsthand. This proactive engagement underscores the gravity with which the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is addressing the ongoing threat posed by these criminals.

“The time has come for the Federal Government to take concrete steps to combat the menace of banditry head-on. The commitment to deploy all necessary assets demonstrates a firm resolve to restore peace and security to our communities.”

As we collectively face this challenge, the NWSF stands in solidarity with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, which have received unprecedented support from the current administration. The determination to eliminate the criminal elements threatening the fabric of our society is both commendable and imperative.

We remain hopeful that this initiative will weaken the bases of these bandits, allowing for a restoration of peace and normalcy in our regions. We call upon residents of the North-West to stay vigilant and cooperate closely with security personnel to prioritize their safety and the well-being of all Nigerians.

Together, we believe that the tides are turning, and the time for change is at hand. We pray for the success of our brave men and women in uniform as they confront and dismantle these criminal networks.

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

The recent pronouncement by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, underscores a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity in the Northwest region. The directive for the Chief of Defence Staff and military leaders to converge upon Sokoto, the operational headquarters covering Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states, marks a significant escalation in the government’s efforts to dismantle the escalating threats posed by banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. The lion roars, signifying a determination to assert control over regions plagued by criminal violence.
As the minister articulates the government’s strategy, it is essential to grasp the gravity of the current situation. The Northwest has seen an alarming rise in terrorist activities and banditry, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty. Access to critical resources, regular economic activities, and general peace have been severely undermined. Communities that once thrived face an existential threat that displaces families, disrupts education, and stifles economic opportunities. Against this backdrop, Dr. Matawalle’s recent commitments symbolically signal a pivot towards rebuilding stability in the region.
This strategic move presents a clear demonstration of the federal government’s unwavering resolve to restore peace and security. By relocating military leadership and resources to the affected areas, it is evident that the government aims to recalibrate its operational methodologies. Engaging directly with the local leadership on ground gives military commanders the opportunity to reassess the complexities of the security landscape they face, ensuring a tailored response that reflects the unique challenges of the Northwest.
Moreover, the focus on flushing out notorious bandit Bello Turji and his gang illustrates a specific operational target—an essential tactic for restoring confidence in state power. Criminal elements that propagate insecurity through violence must be met with an unyielding stance, and the government’s current approach suggests such a commitment.
The distressing incident which surfaced in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State—where bandits jeered at the operational failures of military personnel—further complicates the prevailing security issues. Videos showcasing the vulnerability of Nigerian armed forces can undermine public confidence in the military and the government’s ability to maintain order. Such occurrences are intolerable, as they wage psychological warfare not only against the security forces but also against the populace who rely on them for protection.
The proactive measures now being undertaken must, therefore, encompass strategies that address both the immediate needs of security personnel and the longer-term systematic issues that contribute to banditry. Efforts to bolster military capabilities, logistics, and intelligence-gathering operations have to be prioritized. In tandem, initiatives directed at social, economic, and educational development in affected regions must be considered. The efficacy of military operations is diminished if contextually, the root causes of insecurity remain unaddressed.
The ongoing support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Armed Forces of Nigeria plays an instrumental role in this crucial phase. It reflects a unified government stance that prioritizes security as an imperative national interest. The collaborative efforts between political leadership and military command signal a strategic alignment necessary for confronting multifaceted threats in the Northwest.
The lion’s roar from the Ministry of Defence should be heard as a clarion call for renewed engagement and investment in strategies against insecurity. The gravity of the situation in Northwest Nigeria demands unwavering commitment and cooperation across all levels of government, security agencies, and the communities themselves. With strategic military deployment, clear operational goals, and an integrated approach that addresses underlying socio-economic issues, the ultimate end of insecurity may very well be within sight. The collective resolve to restore peace in this beleaguered region of Nigeria must translate into tangible outcomes, ensuring that the lion remains vigilant and empowered in the face of challenges that threaten its dominion.

The Northern Youth Initiative for Peace and Good Governance (NYIPGG) has expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Dental Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria (DTRBN).

At a press conference in Kaduna, Amb. Hassan Sadau, Vice President of National Affairs, NYIPGG, commended the President’s commitment to the dental profession, citing the significant progress made by the DTRBN under the leadership of Mrs. Omowumi Mercy Ojo.

The group praised Mrs. Ojo’s exceptional leadership, which has brought tremendous achievements to the board, gaining the attention of President Tinubu. Her foresight and initiatives have translated to unprecedented progress in the dental therapy sector.

The NYIPGG acknowledged Mrs. Ojo’s extensive experience in regulation management, training, and policy development, which has set new standards for the Board’s operations. Her leadership has ensured that dental therapists attain the peak of Nigeria’s civil service career.

Mrs. Ojo has been instrumental in enhancing professional training standards for dental therapists across the nation. Through her initiatives, the Board has ensured that dental professional certificates are more secure, making it difficult for quacks and uncertified persons to prevail in the sector.

The group commended Mrs. Ojo’s successful establishment and management of the registration process for practicing and new dental therapists. She has also coordinated the activities of dental therapists across all 36 states and the FCT, ensuring the Board operates with efficiency and transparency.

The NYIPGG urged President Tinubu to consider Mrs. Ojo’s unmatched service in the health sector by appointing her to a strategic position within the sector for effective service delivery. They believe her dedication aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The group emphasized their commitment to recognizing initiatives contributing to societal betterment, particularly in good governance. They reiterated their appreciation for President Tinubu’s support for the DTRBN, leading to unprecedented progress in dental therapy in Nigeria.

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

The recent resurgence of diphtheria in the Tukur-Tukur community in Zaria serves as an urgent clarion call for public health stakeholders in Nigeria. This tragic outbreak, marked by the loss of five children in a mere 24-hour span, underscores the authentic and perennial threats posed by infectious diseases. The alarming symptoms observed—severe throat infections, pronounced breathing difficulties, and notable cutaneous manifestations—have placed families and health officials on high alert, casting a dark shadow of a potential epidemic over not just Tukur-Tukur, but potentially the broader Nigerian landscape.
Historically, Nigeria has made commendable strides in controlling diphtheria through extensive immunization campaigns. Nonetheless, recent epidemiological trends and enduring socioeconomic challenges have rendered the fading specter of this once-controlled disease alarmingly potent. On a biological front, diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which secretes a virulent exotoxin capable of inducing severe systemic complications. The primary mode of transmission, facilitated via respiratory droplets, complicates containment efforts, particularly within densely populated regions where human interactions are frequent and close.
The unsettling outbreak in Tukur-Tukur, confirmed by health authorities including Dr. Bello Jamo, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, marks a broader, disturbing trend prevalent across Nigeria. Data indicates that multiple states—Kano, Yobe, Bauchi, Katsina, Borno, and Jigawa—have reported confirmed cases of diphtheria since the beginning of 2023, painting a somber picture of an outbreak that is both expansive and alarming. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has documented over 20,000 suspected cases, with a staggering 12,000 confirmed, alongside a concerning fatality rate of 4.6%. This situation necessitates prompt and decisive action from public health systems at multiple levels.
Several interlinked factors converge to facilitate the resurgence of diphtheria, primarily a notable decline in vaccination coverage. Most disquietingly, approximately 69.4% of confirmed cases reside within children aged 1 to 14 years. Inadequate access to diphtheria antitoxin and limited diagnostic capabilities in many healthcare facilities compound the crisis; startlingly, only 26.5% of confirmed cases had adhered to the necessary diphtheria vaccination schedule. To mitigate future outbreaks and safeguard public health, the ramifications of community reluctance surrounding vaccination initiatives must be tackled urgently.
The current resurgence is not isolated; it embodies broader public health challenges that Nigeria continues to confront. On December 1, 2022, the NCDC reported suspected outbreaks in Lagos and Kano states, and by January 2023, diphtheria had spread to other regions—including Osun and Yobe. The statistics are staggering, with over 20,000 suspected cases and approximately 12,086 confirmed cases reported by December 3, 2023. Vulnerable populations, particularly children aged 1-14, account for 69.4% of these confirmed cases, indicating an urgent need for targeted public health interventions.
Given these multi-layered challenges, formulating effective and immediate response measures is imperative to mitigate the outbreak’s impact. A multifaceted strategy, integrating both immediate public health interventions and long-term systemic changes, is vital for strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare framework.
A coordinated response from public health authorities—spanning local, state, and federal levels—is essential for addressing the resurgence of diphtheria. Despite initial response measures in progress, significant challenges remain across several public health domains. A robust surveillance system must be established to facilitate rapid detection and response to diphtheria cases. This involves training healthcare workers to recognize symptoms and report effectively, along with enhancing lab capabilities for precise diagnosis.
Central to combating diphtheria is an aggressive immunization strategy that emphasizes comprehensive vaccination programs targeting high-risk populations. School-based and community outreach initiatives can be employed to raise awareness and ensure vaccine access. Staunch efforts must be taken to educate communities on the critical importance of adhering to the vaccination schedule and dispelling myths that may hinder compliance.
In addition to proactive vaccination efforts, intensified public awareness campaigns are vital to curb the outbreak. The messaging should clearly articulate modes of transmission, recognizable symptoms, and the necessity for early medical intervention. Engaging local community leaders and influencers in these educational endeavors can enhance the credibility of health communications and encourage better health-seeking behaviors.
Investment in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly in regions severely affected by diphtheria, is vital. Ensuring consistent supply chains for vaccines and therapeutic agents, alongside training healthcare providers in recognizing and addressing diphtheria cases, can significantly bolster the nation’s public health response.
The intricacies of addressing diphtheria call for collaboration with global health entities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi). These partnerships can offer essential technical support, resources, and expertise that can enhance Nigeria’s ability to manage the outbreak effectively.
The resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria elucidates a complex public health crisis, underpinned by a myriad of social, economic, and healthcare challenges. Addressing this pressing issue demands a coherent, collaborative approach that prioritizes vaccination, strengthens diagnostic and surveillance mechanisms, and promotes public awareness. Only through synergistic efforts engaging healthcare providers, governments, and international partners can Nigeria hope to quell this crisis, safeguard public health, and prevent future outbreaks of diphtheria.
Responding to this public health emergency necessitates strategic action informed by empirical data and the insights of the affected communities. By employing a multifaceted approach and enhancing collaboration among local, state, and international health organizations, Nigeria can strive towards ensuring a healthier future for its most vulnerable populations—particularly its children—who find themselves on the frontline of this outbreak. Through collective action and a strengthened commitment to public health, Nigeria can transform the impending threat of diphtheria from an immediate crisis into a manageable concern, thereby fortifying the well-being of its future generations.

By Musa Kankara

The resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria, notably marked by alarming reports regarding the outbreak in the Tukur-Tukur community of Zaria, stands as a dire reminder of the continual challenges posed by infectious diseases within the nation. The tragic loss of five children within only 24 hours due to this dangerous disease not only raises concerns but also highlights the necessity of vigilant leadership and swift community action.

In this light, it is imperative to commend Abdul-Azeez Suleiman for his proactive response and readiness to confront this crisis, as well as to acknowledge the broader role of the Tukur-Tukur community in advocating for health measures that safeguard their population and neighboring areas. Suleiman, a prominent leader and director in the Northern Elders Forum, exemplifies dedication to public health through his vigilance and prompt intervention in raising awareness about the outbreak. His leadership has galvanized support and facilitated local initiatives aimed at addressing the crisis, thus underscoring the essential role that community leaders play in public health management.

It is essential for both the national government and international health organizations to recognize and encourage such humanitarian commitments. By acknowledging these efforts, governments can create an environment where grassroots initiatives flourish, ensuring that communities are well-equipped to manage public health challenges as they arise.

The response from the Kaduna State health authorities has also been commendable, particularly under the astute guidance of the Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Bello Jamo. The efficient and professional handling of this outbreak reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable populations. The comprehensive immunization programs established in response to this resurgence emphasize the need for immediate, targeted action, particularly directed towards high-risk populations such as children aged 1 to 14, who constitute a staggering 69.4% of confirmed cases.

These programs highlight the critical importance of school-based and community outreach initiatives that not only facilitate access to vital vaccines but also raise awareness about the significance of immunization. Integral to this endeavor has been the collaboration between the Kaduna health authorities and global health stakeholders, notably the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi). Such partnerships are invaluable, providing critical technical support, resources, and expertise that enhance Nigeria’s capability to manage public health crises effectively.

By working together, local health authorities and international organizations can forge a resilient health infrastructure capable of addressing emerging threats, solidifying the foundation upon which Nigeria can cultivate a robust public health system.

However, equally paramount in this endeavor is the Tukur-Tukur community’s proactive initiative for heightened public awareness. The community has recognized that information campaigns are imperative for controlling the outbreak, and efforts are underway to engage residents by clearly communicating modes of transmission, symptoms, and the