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Kaduna, Nigeria – In a significant move to promote digital literacy and prepare citizens for the future of work, Musawah for Youth and Development Initiative (Musawah 4 Y-D Initiative) successfully organized a One-Day Intensive Capacity Building Training on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Teachers, Lecturers, Students, and Other Professionals in Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone.

The highly impactful training attracted over 200 participants drawn from secondary and tertiary educational institutions, government establishments, private organizations, civil society groups, and the wider professional community. Participants included teachers, lecturers, students, school administrators, civil servants, entrepreneurs, NGO personnel, and other professionals seeking to understand and harness the growing opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence.

The training was organized in response to the increasing global adoption of Artificial Intelligence across education, business, healthcare, governance, communication, and virtually every sector of the economy. Recognizing that AI is rapidly reshaping how people learn, work, solve problems, and make decisions, Musawah for Youth and Development Initiative designed the programme to equip participants with practical knowledge and skills that can improve productivity, enhance research capabilities, and support professional development.

Speaking during the event, the National Coordinator of Musawah for Youth and Development Initiative emphasized that the organization remains committed to initiatives that promote education, innovation, youth empowerment, and human capital development.

According to the National Coordinator, Artificial Intelligence is no longer a technology of the future but a present-day reality that individuals and institutions must embrace to remain relevant and competitive.

“Our objective is to ensure that teachers, lecturers, students, and professionals are equipped with practical digital skills that will enable them to work smarter, improve learning outcomes, increase productivity, and take advantage of the opportunities created by emerging technologies. This initiative reflects our commitment to empowering people with knowledge that has lasting value.”

The technical sessions were facilitated by Samuel Ateh Stephen, Technology Strategist, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation Consultant, and Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Realist Tech Solutions (RTS), alongside Salamatu Nuhuakubu, an Applied Technology Trainer and Chief Executive Officer of SK Tech.

Together, the facilitators delivered practical sessions on Artificial Intelligence for Workplace Productivity, Research, and Professional Development, guiding participants through real-world applications of AI in education, research, business, and the workplace. Through live demonstrations and interactive exercises, participants gained hands-on experience in using AI tools to improve productivity, enhance learning, streamline professional tasks, and support informed decision-making.

Drawing from his experience in Artificial Intelligence, digital transformation, and productivity systems, Samuel delivered practical sessions on Artificial Intelligence for Workplace Productivity and Artificial Intelligence for Research and Professional Development. Rather than focusing solely on theory, participants were taken through real-world demonstrations showing how AI can be applied to everyday tasks.

Participants learned practical applications of AI for report writing, professional communication, proposal development, meeting preparation, document summarization, lesson planning, academic research, presentation development, content creation, and workplace efficiency. Live demonstrations showcased how AI tools can significantly reduce the time required to complete routine tasks while improving the quality of work.

The training also highlighted the importance of responsible AI adoption, encouraging participants to use AI as a tool that complements human intelligence, creativity, and critical thinking rather than replacing them.

One of the highlights of the programme was the interactive practical sessions, where participants engaged directly with modern AI tools and learned how to write effective prompts capable of generating meaningful and high-quality outputs for education, research, business, and professional work.

To ensure that learning continued beyond the event, participants received a specially developed AI Prompt Toolbox containing practical prompts covering research, lesson planning, report writing, proposal development, document summarization, productivity, professional communication, critical thinking, and career development. The resource was designed to help participants immediately apply the knowledge gained during the training in their respective workplaces, schools, businesses, and organizations.

Many participants described the programme as eye-opening, practical, and transformational, noting that it changed their perception of Artificial Intelligence from being a complex technology to becoming an accessible tool capable of improving daily work and learning.

The successful training reinforces Musawah for Youth and Development Initiative’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion, educational advancement, and capacity building through practical learning initiatives that respond to the realities of today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.

As Artificial Intelligence continues to redefine the global workforce, initiatives such as this provide an important platform for equipping Nigerians with the knowledge and practical skills needed to remain productive, innovative, and competitive in the digital economy.

The organizers expressed appreciation to all participants for their enthusiasm and active engagement throughout the programme and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting more initiatives that foster innovation, lifelong learning, and sustainable human capital development across Kaduna State and beyond.

About Musawah for Youth and Development Initiative

Musawah for Youth and Development Initiative is a youth-focused organization committed to promoting education, leadership development, community engagement, digital inclusion, and human capital development through impactful programmes and strategic interventions aimed at empowering individuals and strengthening communities.

Media Contact

For interviews, media enquiries, or partnership opportunities:

Musawah for Youth and Development Initiative

Email: musawah4ydinitiatve@gmail.com
Phone: 07010305257
Website/Social Media: http://www.musawah.org.ng

…Laud Governor Uba Sani’s Support, Adequate Funding for Sports Development

Defending champions Kaduna State hockey teams, Kada Stars and Kada Queens, have expressed confidence ahead of the 2026 National Hockey Championship, vowing to retain their titles when the competition begins in Abuja on Friday.

The championship, scheduled to run from June 26 to July 4, is expected to attract some of Nigeria’s finest hockey talents, with 12 teams competing in the men’s category and eight teams battling for honours in the women’s event.

Kada Stars and Kada Queens head into the tournament as reigning national champions and among the favourites to emerge victorious once again, having established themselves as dominant forces in Nigerian hockey over the years.

Team officials and players said preparations for the championship had been completed, adding that both teams were determined to defend the titles they won at the previous edition of the competition.

Several players who spoke ahead of the tournament commended Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for his administration’s support for sports development, particularly hockey, noting that increased funding and encouragement from the government had contributed significantly to their achievements on the national stage.

According to the players, the Kaduna State Government was recently honoured with the title of Grand Patron in recognition of its commitment to the growth and development of hockey as well as its consistent support for the state’s teams.

Sports stakeholders said Governor Sani’s administration has prioritised sports development as part of its broader youth empowerment agenda, with investments in sporting infrastructure, talent development, grassroots sports programmes and athlete welfare.

The players also acknowledged the contributions of Kaduna State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos, describing him as a committed supporter whose interventions and encouragement have helped sustain the teams’ championship-winning culture.

“The teams are highly motivated and in excellent condition. We have prepared very well, and the support from the state government has boosted our morale. We are optimistic about retaining our titles,” one of the players said.

During a visit to the teams’ training camp, former federal lawmaker and social commentator, Shehu Sani, urged the players to bring home more trophies and assured them that outstanding performances would attract recognition and rewards from the state government.

He charged the athletes to remain disciplined, focused and determined throughout the competition, describing them as worthy ambassadors of Kaduna State.

Sports analysts have consistently ranked Kaduna among Nigeria’s leading hockey centres, citing its long history of producing talented players and maintaining a strong presence in national competitions.

With expectations high among supporters and sports enthusiasts, Kada Stars and Kada Queens will be aiming to reinforce Kaduna State’s reputation as a powerhouse of Nigerian hockey when hostilities commence in Abuja this week.

The championship is expected to provide a platform for emerging talents to showcase their abilities while further strengthening the development of hockey across the country.

The Director General, Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi has stated that, the government wants Nigeria to be a hydrogen hub that would not just utilise, but export to other African countries.

The ECN Boss stated this in Abuja at the opening of a 3-day Summit on Low-Carbon Hydrogen Economy organised by the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and the European Union (EU).

Dr Mustapha Abdullahi explained that the global hydrogen market was predicted to reach 50 billion dollars in the coming decades, stressing that Nigeria should leverage its massive natural gas reserves to produce blue hydrogen and create a new economic opportunity while working toward cleaner alternatives.

According to him, “We have over 209 trillion cubic feet below the surface as reserves. What we are trying to do is to create another economy to utilise that gas.

“We want Nigeria to be a hydrogen hub where we cannot just utilise, but export to other African countries.

Speaking on why ECN conveyed the Summit, the DG said the Energy Commission of Nigeria exists to look beyond the next budget cycle and the next election – to plan for the energy decisions whose consequences will be felt in 2040 and in 2060.

“Hydrogen is precisely that kind of decision. It is not a technology we are testing. It is an economy we are choosing to build, or choosing to leave to others.

Speaking on ECN’S institutional track record, Dr Mustapha said, “This is not a position the Commission has arrived at suddenly. Nigeria’s National Energy Policy was first approved by the Federal Executive Council in 2003, and a new edition – alongside the National Energy Master Plan – was approved again in 2022.

“Both named hydrogen as a clean energy carrier within Nigeria’s energy future. What changed in the years since, is not our interest – it is our capacity to act on it. In 2023, this Commission inaugurated its Hydrogen Committee, and that Committee commenced its work immediately.

“Today, the Energy Commission of Nigeria serves as the Project Executing Entity for Nigeria’s Child Project under the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation’s Global Clean Hydrogen Programme – one of only nine countries worldwide selected into that programme’s first phase.

“Under it, this Commission is already executing technical assistance for green hydrogen pilot demonstration.

“This Summit is not Nigeria’s starting point on hydrogen. It is Nigeria’s acceleration point. Nigeria’s Hydrogen Leapfrog begins here.

While speaking at the Summit, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Udey said the Federal Government is determined to provide the enabling environment for effective utilisation of the nation’s abundant low-carbon hydrogen energy resources under its energy diversification initiatives.

As part of the blueprints towards achieving the objective, Udey said that a national hydrogen policy draft had reached an advanced stage and would become operational as soon as possible.

The Minister, represented by Dr Mukhtar Muhammad, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, described Nigeria’s hydrogen as a critical component of the nation’s clean energy transition plan.

“This government commits to ensuring that the regulatory clarity our agencies require to act, is not the obstacle to achieving economic diversification,” he said.

The Minister noted the technical support from Germany and UNIDO, but cautioned that necessary regulatory work and licensing, belonged strictly to Nigerian institutions.

“Our partners have offered Nigeria a door; they have not offered to walk through it on our behalf.

Mr Godfrey Ogbemudia, Programme Manager for Energy at the European Union Delegation, said that clean hydrogen offers immense opportunities for Nigeria to meet its net-zero and renewable targets.

“We are not only just interested in the knowledge that you are going to get. How does this translate into concrete investment?

“How does this help Nigeria meet its energy target? That is what we will be looking forward to see and we are going to follow this up strictly,” he said.

The Statistician-General of the Federation, Mr Semiu Adeniran, emphasised that low-carbon hydrogen was revolutionary for decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors like manufacturing and transport.

Represented by Kazeem Fatai, a Senior Statistician at the National Bureau of Statistics, Adeniran warned that successful transition frameworks should be evidence-based and economically viable.

“The development of a successful hydrogen ecosystem demands an entirely new baseline of robust statistics.

“We need high fidelity data tracking energy input-output ratios, infrastructure factor flows, green jobs, and crucially disaggregated data on industrial process,” he said.

Etiosa Uyigue, Executive Director of the Community Research and Development Centre, stated that the EU-funded project actively supports multiple core government agencies.

He listed the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency and the Rural Electrification Agency among institutions receiving crucial capacity building and data collection support.

“The overall objective of the project is to support the government efforts to achieve the energy transition goals,” He said

A low-carbon hydrogen economy is an economic model that uses hydrogen as a primary energy carrier and industrial raw material, produced with significantly reduced or net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

It is a critical component of global net-zero strategies designed to eliminate pollution from sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as aviation, shipping, and heavy manufacturing (e.g., steel and cement)

The economic importance of a low-carbon hydrogen economy lies in its ability to decarbonize energy-intensive industries, generate new jobs through infrastructure development, and enhance global energy security by diversifying fuel supplies.

It acts as a critical economic enabler for a sustainable green transition.

By Adoke Adoma

ABUJA – The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has declared its readiness to forge a political alliance with Hausa Land, describing the two regions as the undeniable majority population of Northern Nigeria that must unite to resist domination by a “more organised minority.”

In a statement signed by its National Spokesman, Luka Binniyat, on Wednesday, the MBF said the time had come for greater cooperation between the peoples of both regions to improve security, promote economic development, and build a stronger political partnership that reflects the aspirations of ordinary citizens.

The forum was responding to the recent call by the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, who urged his communities to organise against the growing threats of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping in his emirate.

The MBF commended the Emir’s courage and patriotism, describing his intervention as a “wake-up call” for traditional rulers across the Middle Belt, regardless of religion or ethnicity, to emulate his initiative.

“The over 200 ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt stand in solidarity with all Hausa people who believe in a peaceful, secure, democratic and prosperous Nigeria where every group enjoys equal rights and opportunities away from the domination of a minority,” the statement read.

The forum listed Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Adamawa, Gombe, Kogi, Taraba, the FCT, Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Bauchi, Southern Borno and Southern Yobe as areas that have suffered enormous human and economic losses from the activities of Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, and other terrorist groups.

It noted with interest the growing number of indigenous Hausa voices calling for justice, self-determination, and greater participation in shaping their political and economic future.

Following consultations with key stakeholders from across the Middle Belt and Hausa Land, the MBF said it hopes to convene a Security and Political Summit before 2027 to help form an alliance on their shared socio-political future.

“We cannot afford to allow historical grievances, religious and ethnic divides to shackle us for the exploitation and domination of a more organised minority in both in the Middle Belt and Hausa Land,” the forum added.

The MBF urged communities across the Middle Belt, which it said have carried the heaviest burdens of terrorism and kidnapping, to begin serious discussions on how to strengthen community safety and survival within the law.

“The time to move is now,” the statement concluded.

A women-focused advocacy organization, the Women Rights Advocacy Group (WOREG), has accused activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, of allegedly using the judiciary and judicial officers as instruments for personal publicity and social media content creation.

The group which made the allegation in a statement signed by the Convener, Mrs Amina Dikko, condemned what it described as repeated attacks on judges and judicial institutions by the former presidential candidate.

According to WOREG, Sowore’s comments and conduct in relation to ongoing court proceedings amount to a deliberate attempt to undermine public confidence in the judiciary and erode respect for the rule of law.

The group expressed concern that persistent public criticism directed at judges handling sensitive cases could exert undue pressure on the courts and create an atmosphere of intimidation around judicial officers.

“While every citizen has the constitutional right to freedom of expression, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of the law. The judiciary remains a critical pillar of democracy and should not be subjected to reckless attacks aimed at generating publicity or online engagement,” the statement said.

WOREG maintained that disagreements with court decisions should be addressed through established legal mechanisms, including the appellate process, rather than through public campaigns that may be interpreted as attempts to discredit judicial officers.

The organization further warned that sustained attacks on judges could weaken public trust in the justice system and threaten the independence of the courts.

It called on political actors, activists, civil society organizations and members of the public to respect judicial processes and allow courts to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without interference.

The group also urged relevant authorities and professional bodies to continue safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary while ensuring that legitimate criticism of judicial decisions remains constructive and consistent with democratic principles.

According to the statement, the concerns come amid ongoing public debates surrounding several high-profile court cases and growing discussions about the role of social media in shaping public perceptions of judicial proceedings.

WOREG noted that Sowore has on several occasions publicly criticized judicial decisions and institutions, arguing that scrutiny of the justice sector is necessary to promote accountability.

However, the Women group insisted that criticism should not degenerate into personal attacks on judges or attempts to ridicule the judicial system for political advantage or media attention.

The advocacy group reiterated its call for responsible public engagement on judicial matters, stressing that the preservation of judicial independence remains essential to the sustenance of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.

The Access to Justice and Accountability Forum (AJAF) has strongly condemned human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, over what it described as persistent attacks on the Nigerian judiciary and alleged acts of contempt against courts and judges.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Dr. Mustapha Sani, and Secretary, Emmanuel David Mahu, the civil society organisation expressed concern over what it termed Sowore’s repeated public comments and actions aimed at discrediting judicial officers and undermining confidence in the nation’s justice system.

AJAF stated that while citizens have the constitutional right to freedom of expression and the right to seek accountability from public institutions, such rights must be exercised within the boundaries of the law and with due respect for judicial processes.

According to the group, recent remarks attributed to Sowore regarding ongoing legal proceedings and judicial officers amount to an attempt to influence public perception of matters before competent courts, a development it said could erode public trust in the administration of justice.

“The judiciary remains one of the most critical pillars of Nigeria’s democracy. Any attempt to malign judges without verifiable evidence or to subject judicial officers to public ridicule poses a serious threat to the rule of law and democratic governance,” the statement read.

The organisation further noted that criticism of judicial decisions should be pursued through lawful channels, including appeals and established complaint mechanisms, rather than through public campaigns that could bring the courts into disrepute.

AJAF urged political actors, activists and civil society groups to uphold the sanctity and independence of the judiciary, stressing that disagreements with court rulings should not translate into personal attacks against judges.

The forum also called on relevant authorities and stakeholders in the justice sector to remain vigilant in protecting judicial institutions from intimidation and undue pressure.

Reaffirming its commitment to the promotion of justice, accountability and democratic values, AJAF urged Nigerians to support efforts aimed at strengthening public confidence in the nation’s legal system.

“The integrity of the judiciary must be protected at all times. Democracy thrives when institutions are respected and disputes are resolved through lawful and constitutional means,” the statement added.

By Musa Maye

Abuja, Nigeria

Step Up Nigeria has renewed calls for the enactment of a comprehensive Whistleblower Protection Law in Nigeria, urging the Federal Government to provide stronger legal safeguards for citizens who expose corruption, misconduct, and unethical practices.

The call was made during a media roundtable organized by Step Up Nigeria in partnership with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF) as part of activities commemorating the 2026 World Whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition.

Speaking at the event in Abuja, the Director of Programmes at Step Up Nigeria, Mrs. Feranmi Iyanda, expressed concern over the continued absence of a dedicated legal framework protecting whistleblowers in Nigeria despite the existence of a whistleblower policy introduced in 2016.

According to her, the lack of statutory protection exposes individuals who report corruption and wrongdoing to intimidation, victimization, and retaliation.

“Everything we are advocating here is for the law to protect whistleblowers. We want to have a whistleblower protection law in Nigeria.

“There is currently no whistleblower protection law that clearly mandates protections for whistleblowers in Nigeria. Across the entire African continent, only eight countries have enacted whistleblower protection laws, which shows there is still significant work to be done,” she said.

The media roundtable brought together anti-corruption advocates, media practitioners, civil society stakeholders, students, and young creatives to discuss the importance of whistleblowing, transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in strengthening democratic governance.

Representing the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Mr. Suleiman Achile, Deputy Director of the Civil Society Mobilisation Unit, highlighted ongoing efforts by the Commission to build a culture of integrity among young Nigerians.

Speaking through Dr. Babasola Oluwasina, Deputy Director of the Education Department, Achile explained that the Commission has established Anti-Corruption Clubs in secondary schools and Student Anti-Corruption Vanguards in tertiary institutions across the country.

“The ICPC has developed several youth engagement programmes focused on integrity and accountability. At the secondary school level, we have Anti-Corruption Clubs, while in tertiary institutions we have Student Anti-Corruption Vanguards.

“These initiatives are designed to equip young people with the values of honesty, integrity, and accountability so they can become responsible citizens and ethical leaders wherever they find themselves,” he said.

He further noted that the Commission is implementing the National Ethics and Integrity Policy as part of broader efforts to strengthen ethical standards and promote responsible conduct across all sectors of society.

A major highlight of the event was the 2026 World Whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition, which provided a platform for young Nigerians to use creativity and storytelling as tools for advocacy.

According to the Communications Manager of Step Up Nigeria, Dr. Shekwogaza Kure, the competition was designed to amplify youth voices and encourage conversations around whistleblower protection, anti-corruption, transparency, accountability, and responsible citizenship.

“The competition was created to provide young Nigerians with a platform to use art and media as instruments for social change. It encourages critical conversations around whistleblowing, transparency, accountability, and the urgent need for stronger legal protections for whistleblowers in Nigeria,” Kure stated.

He disclosed that the competition attracted 172 entries from across the country, comprising 111 male participants and 61 female participants, demonstrating growing youth interest in governance and anti-corruption advocacy.

Winners emerged from various categories including music, skits, poetry and spoken word, artwork, and digital media. The overall winners received cash prizes of ₦500,000 each, while runners-up received ₦200,000 each in recognition of their outstanding advocacy contributions.

The category winners included Gilbert Owan (Skits), Damilola Akinfolarin (Music), Anita Nwokoji (Poetry and Spoken Word), Moses Sodipo (Artwork), and Oguche Onuche.

Speaking on behalf of the winners, Anita Nwokoji urged Nigerians to reject silence in the face of corruption and wrongdoing.

“Wrongdoing is wrongdoing, whether it occurs in the workplace, in our communities, in schools, religious institutions, or any other environment. People must be willing to speak up whenever they witness corruption or misconduct,” she said.

Participants at the roundtable emphasized that corruption is not limited to government institutions alone but can exist in homes, businesses, schools, religious organizations, and communities. They stressed that promoting integrity and accountability requires collective action from all citizens.

The event concluded with renewed commitments from civil society organizations, media professionals, youth leaders, and anti-corruption advocates to continue championing whistleblower protection reforms and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability across Nigeria.

The World Whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition forms part of Step Up Nigeria’s broader mission to empower citizens, especially young people, to become active champions of integrity, good governance, and social accountability.

How a Village Boy Became Engineering Royalty

Pastor Shedrach Oka’s Emotional Tribute to His Friend, Engr. (Hon.) Inah Ibor Ubi, As He Ascends to NIEEE Fellowship

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In the journey of life, true greatness is not measured by where a person begins, but by the depth of their resilience, the heights of their achievements, and the lives they touch along the way. Today, Pastor Shedrach Oka joins family, friends, and the entire community in celebrating a man who embodies this truth in its purest form: Engr. (Hon.) Inah Ibor Ubi.

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The news of his induction as a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NIEEE) is not just a personal victory; it is a monumental triumph for everyone who believes in the power of hard work, education, and unwavering determination. For Pastor Oka, it is also the proud moment of watching a cherished friend reach a summit few ever attain.

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A Journey Fueled by Resilience

Engr. Inah’s story is a powerful testament to the fact that your background does not define your future. Rising from humble beginnings, he faced the typical life struggles that many young Nigerians know all too well. Yet, where others saw obstacles, he saw stepping stones. Armed with a relentless drive and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he carved a path of excellence in the highly demanding field of engineering.

Achieving the rank of an NIEEE Fellow is the highest professional honor an electrical and electronics engineer can attain in Nigeria. It is a title reserved for the elite—those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, technical prowess, and significant contributions to the profession. For Engr. Inah, this is a well-deserved crowning glory, even as he pushes the boundaries of academia further by currently pursuing his PhD.

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A Friend, a Brother, a Leader of the People

“I have watched this man rise with grace, humility, and an unbreakable spirit,” Pastor Oka shares. “His success is no accident—it is the fruit of discipline, faith, and a heart that genuinely loves people.”

Beyond the laboratories, blueprints, and academic journals, Hon. Inah is a man deeply rooted in the soil of his community. His stint as the former Councilor for the Mkpani Agoi Council Ward in Yakurr LGA of Cross River State showcased his heart for public service.

In a political landscape that often clamors for genuine leaders, Hon. Inah stood out. He brought the precision of an engineer and the empathy of a grassroots leader to governance, proving that politics can be a tool for genuine community development.

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The Beacon of Hope for Mkpani Youths

To the youths of Mkpani and Yakurr LGA as a whole, Hon. Inah Ibor Ubi is more than just a successful engineer or an aspiring politician—he is a living blueprint of possibility.

He has broken the myth that success is reserved only for the privileged. By balancing academic rigor, professional excellence, and grassroots community engagement, he has shown the next generation that they can be intellectually formidable while remaining politically relevant and community-conscious. As Pastor Oka affirms, he is, without a doubt, the ultimate role model for every young person who dares to dream big.

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“True leaders don’t just create followers; they inspire the next generation to lead. My friend Engr. Inah is doing exactly that.”

—Pastor Shedrach Oka

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Congratulations, Champion!

“As you wear the prestigious gown of an NIEEE Fellow and continue your stride toward your doctorate, I salute your tenacity, your intellect, and your golden heart,” Pastor Oka declares. “Mkpani is proud of you. Cross River State is blessed to have you. The engineering community is richer because of you.”

Congratulations, Engr. (Hon.) Inah Ibor Ubi, FNIEEE. From your friend Pastor Shedrach Oka, this is not the peak of your mountain—it is merely the launching pad for the greater national impact ahead!

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By Adakson Ojile

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has issued a strong call for anti-corruption agencies to launch a comprehensive investigation into serving Senator and former Zamfara State Governor, Abdul’Aziz Abubakar Yari, over allegations of illegal mining activities, questionable business acquisitions, and unexplained wealth.

The group gave the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Department of State Services (DSS), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and the Code of Conduct Bureau a two-week ultimatum to commence action on the allegations, warning that failure to do so could result in legal action and nationwide protests .

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its President, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the council said its position was informed by reports received from the Zamfara Concerned Youth Assembly for Peace Advocacy. The council called for a thorough and coordinated review of Senator Yari’s asset declarations, financial interests, and associated corporate structures .

The YYC stated that when Yari assumed office as governor in 2011, some of his properties were reportedly used as collateral for loans obtained to fund his election campaign. The council argued that the subsequent scale of his reported business interests and investments raised significant questions requiring scrutiny .

Among the key issues raised were allegations linking the former governor to illegal mining networks operating in Zamfara, Kaduna, and Kebbi states. The council referenced previous anti-smuggling operations involving gold seizures and arrests connected to illegal mineral exports, urging investigators to determine whether any links exist between those activities and the senator .

The YYC specifically called for scrutiny of alleged business interests connected to Yari, including reported acquisitions in the power sector and entities allegedly associated with him. The organisation urged agencies to investigate claims involving the reported acquisition of a controlling stake in Geregu Power Plc through MA’AM Energy Limited, a company the group alleged is connected to Yari and members of his family .

The council further expressed concerns over what it described as the rapid expansion of the former governor’s business interests after leaving office, including alleged investments in the aviation sector and entities such as AJAP Financial Services Limited .

The YYC stressed that its demand was intended to promote accountability rather than presume guilt. It maintained that a credible investigation would either clarify the issues raised in the public domain or enable appropriate authorities to take any action required under the law .

The group warned that if anti-graft agencies fail to act within the specified two-week window, it would explore legal remedies to compel the discharge of constitutional and statutory responsibilities and mobilise peaceful protests to demand accountability .

The organisation emphasised that transparency and accountability remain essential to strengthening public confidence in institutions and that addressing the concerns raised would demonstrate the commitment of authorities to good governance .

As of the time of filing this report, Senator Yari had not issued an official response to the allegations contained in the statement.