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By Mike Odeh James and Ibrahim H Tinja

Maryam Abacha American University (MAAUN) has made a groundbreaking achievement by ranking 2nd best private university in Nigeria, according to the latest Nigeria Private Universities Ranking 2024 by AD Scientific.

This outstanding accomplishment is a testament to the university’s unwavering

commitment to academic excellence and its founder’s vision to provide world-class education.

Under the leadership of Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, MAAUN has consistently demonstrated its dedication to academic rigor, innovation, and student success. The university’s cutting-edge curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and esteemed faculty have created a learning environment that fosters intellectual growth, creativity, and critical thinking.

This impressive ranking is a reflection of MAAUN’s tireless efforts to bridge the gap between Nigeria and developed countries in terms of academic standards. The university’s graduates are highly sought after by top employers globally, and its research output has contributed significantly to the nation’s development.

Prof. Gwarzo expressed his gratitude to the university community, saying, “This achievement is a result of our collective efforts and dedication to excellence. We will continue to strive for greatness and make Nigeria proud.”

By Dattijo Sani Rano PhD

The grand conspiracy from Northern Nigeria against the reemergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term that was hinted at by the President’s loyal political allies in the region is gradually but surely coming into the open.
The recent open declaration by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) that the North would work against Tinubu in 2027 is a clear indication that there are powerful forces at work to undermine the President’s second term chances and set the stage for a carefully orchestrated plot against him.
This bold and unequivocal statement by the NEF has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as it reveals a clear intent to thwart Tinubu’s ambitions. The fact that such a group has openly declared its opposition to Tinubu’s bid speaks volumes about the deep-seated opposition and resistance he faces from outside and within his own political circles. It is further evidence that there are powerful forces at play who are determined to derail his political aspirations with a concerted effort to block his path to a second term.
The alignment of key players like the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces against him further highlights the depth of this conspiracy. The connivance of leaders from the North and the self-serving greed of those within the Presidential Villa are enabling this plot to take root and thrive.
The emergence of key figures such as Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda and Prof Khalifa Dikwa, who have openly criticized Tinubu’s administration and suggested Kashim Shettima as alternative candidate for the presidency, sheds light on the depth of the conspiracy. These individuals, along with the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces, are actively working to undermine Tinubu’s drive and pave the way for their own agendas.
In the midst of this sinister plot, Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, along with other key figures such as Prof Khalifa Dikwa, have expressed their support for the North East Forum’s position regarding the potential replacement of President Tinubu. Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, the arrowhead for the Northwestern plank of the plan, has even gone so far as to suggest Vice President Kashim Shettima as a likely preferred candidate.
This stance was further solidified by Prof Khalifa Dikwa, the Dean of Borno Elders Forum, who has raised false concerns about the perceived weaknesses and lopsided nature of President Tinubu’s appointments. These individuals seem to be united in their belief that a change in leadership is necessary.
The insidious nature of this conspiracy is further exemplified by the awarding of a 147 billion naira contract to a Katsina opposition party strongman by a serving minister in the administration. This blatant display of betrayal and manipulation underscores the extent to which those within President Tinubu’s inner circle are willing to go to advance their own interests at the expense of the nation.
It is clear that President Tinubu is facing a formidable challenge from within his own ranks. The power struggle and backstabbing taking place behind the scenes threaten to derail his administration and undermine his legacy.
He must take immediate action to counteract the machinations of those seeking to undermine his aspiration. He must surround himself and listen to loyal and competent friends like the former Kano State governor Abdullahi Ganduje who have lots of useful insight to share.
It is time for Tinubu to identify and remove the Judases within his camp, and forge ahead with a team of individuals that is dedicated to upholding the values of justice and honest enterprise.
It is imperative that President Tinubu takes swift and decisive action to counteract these malicious maneuvers. The recent award of a 140 billion naira contract to an opposition member by a serving minister is a glaring example of the subversion taking place within his own administration.
The warning signals from high-ranking northern appointees in the Tinubu administration must therefore not be ignored. The President must heed the advice of his remaining two vigorous supporters and allies before it is too late. The time for complacency is over; President Tinubu must act decisively to protect his presidency and ensure the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.
Tinubu should be aware of the challenges he is facing from an emerging opposition that aims to weaken his support base in the northern region of the country. Already, several of his loyal friends and partners, such as Nasir Elrufai, Yahaya Bello, and Aminu Bello Masari, have been marginalized through the opposition’s manipulative tactics.
The only two allies left standing, Ganduje and Matawalle, are also under constant attack and defamation, with the ultimate goal of eroding Tinubu’s influence in the north. This concerted effort to dismantle Tinubu’s support base is a clear indication of the threat posed by this emerging opposition.
Tinubu must take note of these developments and take necessary steps to safeguard his political interests in the northern region. It is imperative that he strengthens his alliances, engages in strategic planning, and remains vigilant against any attempts to undermine his position.
It is time to rise to the occasion, take control of the narrative, and assert his authority over those seeking to undermine him. The success of his administration and the future of the nation depend on his ability to navigate these treacherous waters and emerge victorious against the forces seeking to derail his leadership and future chances.
Only by remaining vigilant and steadfast in the face of adversity can he secure his place in history as a leader who stood firm against the forces of division and discord.
(Rano, a political analyst, writes from Kano and can be reached at: DrRanoMD@gmail.com)

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has called for the removal of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Emmanuel Ogalla, due to allegations of supporting oil thieves and sabotaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to combat oil theft. The YYC has passed a vote of no confidence in Ogalla and is demanding a thorough investigation into his activities.

The allegations against Ogalla include large-scale corruption, procurement fraud, and contract splitting, which were levelled against him in a petition by a group of concerned Nigerians in January. The YYC is disturbed by the allegations and claims that Ogalla’s actions are undermining the President’s efforts to fight oil theft.

The YYC specifically mentioned the release of a ship arrested for oil theft and the alleged dilution of exhibit samples as examples of Ogalla’s sabotage. The President has reportedly ordered the re-arrest of the ship and a full investigation into the matter. The YYC is urging the President to remove any obstacles to his efforts to combat oil theft and sanitise the oil sector.

The petition by the group of concerned Nigerians expressed distress at the allegations against Ogalla, given the significant revenue losses Nigeria is experiencing due to crude oil theft. They called for action to be taken against Ogalla, who is responsible for safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways against oil theft and other criminal activities.

A group, the Forum for Good Governance (FGGN), has come out in strong defense of President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, over his board membership role in CDK Integrated Industries, a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group. The group faulted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s allegation that Seyi’s involvement in the company constitutes a conflict of interest in the award of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway contract to Hitech Construction Company Ltd.

In a press statement, the FGGN noted that Seyi, as an adult, has the right to pursue legitimate business interests within and outside the country, and that his father’s position as President should not deny him access to business opportunities. The group stated that Seyi joined the Board of Directors of CDK in 2018 as an investor, with a good record of performance, and wondered why he should be denied the right to business patronage because of his father’s position.

The FGGN also pointed out that the Chairman of CDK and the highest shareholder of the company is General T.Y. Danjuma (retd.), and not Seyi Tinubu, who has been involved in business for several years before his father became President. The group questioned Atiku’s motives, asking how Seyi’s involvement in CDK conflicts with Hitech Construction Company’s work on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal superhighway.

The FGGN also accused Atiku of hypocrisy, pointing out that he established Intels Nigeria with an Italian entrepreneur while serving as Vice President, and maintained his business links with Intels that won major port concession deals in Nigeria. The group stated that “he who must come to equity must come with clean hands,” and that Atiku’s allegations against Seyi Tinubu are baseless and politically motivated.

The FGGN’s defense of Seyi Tinubu’s business interests has sparked a heated debate in the political sphere, with many calling for Atiku to come clean on his own business dealings before accusing others. The controversy has also raised questions about the role of politics in business and the need for transparency and accountability in government contracts.

Sabiu Musa

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has sounded the alarm over the persistent oil theft in the Niger Delta region, despite the significant presence of naval officials. The group is demanding a comprehensive overhaul of the Naval high command, citing sabotage of the Federal Government’s efforts to boost oil production.

According to Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, a recent incident involving MT MONTAGU and MT PRESTIGIOUS has exposed the complicity of naval officials in oil theft. Despite a counter order to re-arrest the ship, naval officials released it, allowing another vessel to evacuate or dilute the stolen crude oil.

Okwu Nnabuike emphasized the group’s support for President Tinubu’s anti-corruption crusade and urged him to take decisive action against the corrupt elements in the Naval hierarchy. He called for the immediate removal of the Chief of Naval Staff and other top officials, and advocated for the appointment of an Igbo officer as replacement to restore integrity and transparency in the oil production chain.

The group’s demand for a thorough overhaul of the Naval high command is aimed at ending the corruption and economic sabotage that has caused immense suffering for Nigerians, and ensuring that the country’s oil resources are managed in a transparent and accountable manner.

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Andy Omale

The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has passed a vote of no confidence on the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, over allegations of economic sabotage and criminal activities within the Nigerian Navy.

The NDYC, which represents the youth of the Niger Delta region, condemned the Navy’s involvement in crude oil theft, diversion, and providing security escorts for oil thieves, labeling it a betrayal of the nation’s trust. They demanded a thorough investigation into the allegations, including the recent incident involving MT PRESTIGIOUS and MT MONTAGU, and called for those found guilty to face justice.

The group emphasized that such activities undermine the security and economic stability of the nation, exacerbate the suffering of the Nigerian people, and sabotage the efforts of the President Bola Tinubu administration. They urged swift and decisive action to rectify the situation and promote lawful maritime activities for the benefit of all Nigerians.

The NDYC’s move is a call to action for the government to address the crisis in the Navy and ensure accountability among its leadership. The nation awaits a response to this development, which has sparked concern among Nigerians.

Musa Kankara

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, has come hard on those who staged a protest against the Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle.

A group of people were spotted at the Abuja office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, demanding re-opening of investigation against the former Zamfara governor.

Reacting to the development, the National President of the Ohanaeze Youths, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike said the protest was in a chain of actions lined up to discredit the minister for standing with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Okwu recalled that he had earlier raised the alarm over the plot by some Northerners opposed to Tinubu’s leadership to slam Matawalle’s image, having seen him as the rallying point for Mr President in the North.

He said, “It is, therefore, not a surprise that early Friday morning, the same people recruited people from the outskirts of Abuja and moved them to the city centre to protest against the minister.
“There was no doubt that most of the said protesters were ignorant of their mission to the EFCC office; they merely came to deliver on the job they were assembled to do.

“We therefore, once more retrait our advice to His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu not to be deceived by the same people who have vowed to truncate his second term in 2027.

“We urge Mr President to be wary of these desperadoes who are hellbent on destroying any good person around his government. They should not be given any space at all to thrive in their evil machinations.”

“Once more, we stand solidly behind the Defence Minister and urge him to continue the good work he is doing, as could be seen in the improved security across the country,” Okwu stated.

He vowed that a time would soon come when “we will expose all those behind this desperate attempt to discredit the current government.”

The Kaduna Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has commended the Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, for his exceptional leadership and transparent information management, which has significantly enhanced public credibility and goodwill for the current administration.

In a statement issued by the Chapter Chairman, Haroun Malami, on the occasion of the Minister’s birthday, the NIPR acknowledged Alhaji Idris’ demonstration of the highest standards of public relations practice, showcasing character, competence, and credibility in his handling of government communication since assuming office.

The Chapter praised the Minister as an innovator who has made a purposeful shift from the old norm, building on his experience as the Kaduna State Chapter Chairman. His patriotism and service to nationhood in various capacities have left an indelible mark, with laudable footprints and remarkable accomplishments that testify to the impact of public relations on outcomes.

The NIPR expressed its appreciation for Alhaji Idris’ commitment to elevating public trust in governance and deepening citizens’ faith in the country. The statement concluded with a prayer for the Minister’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength in his patriotic service to the nation.

This version maintains the same message and structure but with a few tweaks to enhance clarity and readability.

The Kaduna Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has praised the Minister of Information, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, for his exceptional leadership and transparent information management, which has significantly enhanced public credibility and goodwill for the current administration.

In a statement issued by the Chapter Chairman, Haroun Malami, on the occasion of the Minister’s birthday, the NIPR acknowledged that Alhaji Idris has demonstrated the highest standards of public relations practice, showcasing character, competence, and credibility in his handling of government communication since assuming office.

The Chapter described the Minister as an innovator who has made a purposeful shift from the old norm, building on his experience as the Kaduna State Chapter Chairman. His patriotism and service to nationhood in various capacities have left laudable footprints and remarkable accomplishments, testifying to the impact of public relations on outcomes.

The NIPR expressed its appreciation for Alhaji Idris’ commitment to elevating public trust in governance and deepening citizens’ faith in the country. The statement concluded with a prayer for the Minister’s continued good health and wisdom in his patriotic service to the nation.

… Urges Tinubu to Intervene

As Nigeria joins the world to mark the Workers Day, the civilian staff of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), have used the occasion to protest what they termed unfair treatment and transparent payroll practices by the management.

The workers,who trooped out today at the premises of Ordinance Factory Complex , Kakuri , Kaduna  with various placards with inscriptions such as :”Pay us our wage award”, “we are tired of management incompetence”, ” military said we are not special” etc complained about denied access to a critical program that promotes transparency and efficiency in wage distribution as regards the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

According  to workers, the exclusion prevents them from receiving the recent wage increases implemented for IPPIS-enrolled employees.

The aggrieved  workers during the protest  raised concerns about the accuracy of their payroll data outside of IPPIS, said, ” To add insult to injury, the Deputy Director of Human Resources, Mercy Philip, curtly dismissed our inquiries, calling IPPIS a “no-go area” and suggesting they forget about enrollment altogether until she retires.

Speaking further about their concerns , the workers alleged :  “Allowances for scarce skills (established in 2008) and transportation (introduced in 2015) were abruptly stopped without explanation, causing frustration and a sense of unfair treatment. This is they described as a reprehensible treatment of a dedicated workforce.”

” To confirm the maltreatment, the workers alleged  that Director of Production Air Commodore, Ola Emmanuel in his address to some staff in the factory justified reasons civil staff have not  enjoyed wage award . Stressing, We have not received a single month of the wage award since it was announced September 2023.

He also said that rather than questioning our management , we should go and ask the Accountant General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defense and offices budget office and salary and wages commission to confirm why the non payment of the wage rewards .

They  explained further,” We are owed eight months of minimum wage arrears dating back to 2019. Additionally, we haven’t received the N35,000 six-month wage award initiated by the federal government in September 2023. With a new minimum wage on the horizon, we are concerned that we may be left behind again.

“Unfortunately, our attempts to address these concerns through open communication with DICON’s management have fell on deaf ears.

“Management has brushed aside our concerns, and even the Employee Town Hall, promised by the Director General to be held every two months, has never been held. This lack of transparency is further hindering progress.

“We have held peaceful protests, first on July 3rd, 2023, and most recently the one we declared on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, demonstrating a commitment to finding solutions. As DICON is a non-union workplace, we are staging this peaceful protest on a symbolically significant day for workers’ rights: May 1st. This comes amid reports of a list being compiled to terminate the appointments of those believed to be spearheading the ongoing protests.

“Furthermore, it should be noted that the demoralization and potential dismissal of a highly skilled workforce with exclusive expertise in producing restricted goods like weapons and explosives poses a significant security threat. Disgruntled or desperate workers could be more vulnerable to exploitation or radicalization, potentially jeopardizing the security of these sensitive materials. Will laying off such a critical workforce not exacerbate security threats by placing sensitive expertise in uncertain hands?

The workers however, said the failure on side of  DICON Management to meet the obligations to its civilian workforce has has negative impact on employees morale which raises serious concerns about fair treatment.

They  urged President Bola Tinubu  to take immediate action to address the concerns regarding fair treatment; transparent payroll practices, and the timely resolution of these outstanding issues.