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  • APC caucus lobby Bolarinwa for Kwara Gov

    APC caucus lobby Bolarinwa for Kwara Gov

    The Ilorin South Progressive Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have formally called on the former State Party Chairman, Dr Bashir Bolarinwa  to heed the growing public appeal to offer himself for the leadership of Kwara State.

    This call was made during the Caucus’ monthly meeting and was unanimously endorsed by representatives from the eight wards across Ilorin South Local Government Area.

    The Caucus believes that this moment in Kwara State’s political journey calls for unity, stability, and experienced leadership—leadership with a proven capacity for inclusive governance, the ability to bridge divides, and the strength to inspire confidence across communities and generations.

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    Members of the caucus described Bolarinwa as a calm, principled, and forward-looking statesman, whose political career has consistently reflected integrity, discipline, and a sincere commitment to public service.

    According to the group, his  tenure as State Party Chairman was noted as a defining period that strengthened internal cohesion, fostered cooperation across the three senatorial districts, and dismantled long-standing barriers that had limited broad participation in the political process, these efforts, the Caucus observed, helped reposition Kwara State toward a more inclusive and people-driven

    They maintained that the call is not driven by opposition or partisan confrontation but by a genuine desire to accelerate development, strengthen democratic institutions, and position Kwara State among Nigeria’s leading sub-national economies.

    The Caucus declared its readiness to support a credible and unifying mandate capable of moving the State of Harmony to a higher level of sustainable progress and shared prosperity, requesting  Dr  Bashir  Bolarinwato heed the call to run for the governorship position of Kwara State.”

  • We have capacity to confront any form of emergency — LASEMA PS

    We have capacity to confront any form of emergency — LASEMA PS

    The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Emergency Agency (LASEMA)  Dr Oke-Osanyintolu, has assured that the agency has the capacity to confront any form of disaster.

    Speaking during a retreat for first responders in Lagos, the PS, who was full of gratitude to the first responders, disclosed that the retreat was meant to energise them.

    “The objective of the retreat is to thank the responders. Firstly, we realise that when our government came in, we experienced a lot of emergencies; a lot of disasters in Lagos State, but under the watch of the chief incident commander, the governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the emergency responders have performed so well.

    We are using this retreat to appreciate our first responders, to say a big thank you to them, to say all they have done in the emergency cycle, and we appreciate them.”

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    “However, while we are saying a big thank you to them, we have to reenergize them; we have to build a capacity that is formidable to take Lagos State to another level.

    With the equipment and infrastructure the governor has provided, he said the agency is well-prepared to manage disasters and emergencies. “When you talk about infrastructure, we have infrastructure. Mr Sanwo- Olu has bought sophisticated equipment for us. Some are on their way, some are in our base.”

    While recognising that the score card of the agency is in the hands of the people, he added that the agency has done a lot of things to ensure the safety of the good people of Lagos State in terms of provision of infrastructure, in terms of building the capacity, in terms of putting a lot of things in.

    He also disclosed that the Lagos State government now has more than 20 fire stations strategically positioned across the state.

    “Our government has positioned ambulance services in such a way that we can beat our chest and say we can respond to any form of emergency within 10 minutes, we built capacity, we purchased sophisticated equipment, we bought motor cycles we built personnel, both locally and internationally, we are planning rigorously with an international organization like IOM to have first class disaster management and migration studies institute in Lagos state.”

    He therefore appealed to Lagosians to play their part in disaster management. According to him, most disasters were caused by the recklessness and carelessness of our people.

    He also revealed that the agency is coming stronger, to ensure it does not carry out enforcement alone, “there are going to be penalties to this because life has no spare part and you know the enormous money that the government is using to build the capacity of emergency responders,  to make them not only effective but efficient.”

  • Sani, Yusuf, Pantami blame Northwest woes on industry collapse, skills gap

    Sani, Yusuf, Pantami blame Northwest woes on industry collapse, skills gap

    Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, his Kano counterpart Abba Kabir Yusuf and former Minister of Communications, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, yesterday traced the deepening socio-economic challenges of the North-West to a widening skills gap and the collapse of industries that once powered the region’s economy.

    They spoke at the maiden North-West Stakeholders Development Summit organised by the Joint Senate and House Committees on the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Conference Centre, Kaduna.

    The speakers agreed that insecurity, poverty, youth unemployment and the alarming out-of-school children crisis are symptoms of deeper structural failures rooted in poor education outcomes and the disappearance of industrial capacity across the region.

    Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Governor Sani, the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe said the North-West’s development challenges can no longer be addressed by isolated state efforts, stressing the need for coordinated regional action.

    Governor Sani described the establishment of the NWDC by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a strategic step towards confronting regional disparities through a purpose-built institution with a long-term mandate.

    According to him, the Commission must go beyond bureaucracy to function as a catalyst that aligns policies, mobilises investment and ensures that development efforts across states reinforce rather than duplicate one another.

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    He noted that the North-West, with over 50 million people, holds a youthful population that could either become a demographic dividend or a destabilising burden depending on investments in education, skills and jobs.

    “Our people are not short of reports; they are short of results,” he said, urging the summit to produce actionable roadmaps with measurable outcomes.

    Governor Yusuf who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Faruk Ibrahim, narrowed the region’s crisis to what he called the “twin and intertwined challenges” of insecurity and systemic decay in the education sector.

    He lamented that banditry, kidnappings and cattle rustling have displaced communities, destroyed farmlands and markets, and deepened multidimensional poverty across the sub-region.

    He proposed the creation of a sub-regional education transformation body under the NWDC to coordinate restoration, innovation and improved education delivery across the North-West states.

    The Kano governor also advocated a sub-regional security collaboration framework to enhance cross-border intelligence sharing and support rehabilitation of displaced persons.

    Prof. Pantami, in his intervention, linked the region’s present difficulties to the collapse of industries that flourished in Kaduna, Kano and other northern cities in the 1970s and 1980s.

    He observed that Northern Nigeria has shifted from being a producer region to largely a consumer one, warning that the trend threatens the future if not urgently reversed.

    Pantami blamed the growing skills gap on poor curriculum alignment and the absence of practical, vocational and technical training that matches modern economic demands.

    He recommended the adoption of a “dual education” model, where classroom learning is combined with hands-on vocational training, similar to systems used in Germany and Switzerland.

    The former minister also highlighted the out-of-school children crisis, noting that a significant proportion of affected children are in Northern Nigeria, posing long-term risks to stability and competitiveness.

    The speakers agreed that addressing insecurity without fixing education and skills development, or improving schools without securing communities, would produce limited results.

  • Minister urges FCT youth to choose dialogue over division

    Minister urges FCT youth to choose dialogue over division

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, yesterday called on the youth to embrace dialogue, peaceful engagement, and constructive participation in the nation’s building.

    She also emphasised that progress is achieved not through division but through collaboration, mutual respect, and shared commitment to development.

    The Minister, who spoke at the FCT Gbagyi Youth Association conference held in Abuja, described the conference as a vital platform for dialogue, reflection, and collective action among the territory’s vibrant youth.

    Represented by the Mandate Secretary FCT Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Hon. Ango Suleiman Abdullahi, the minister expressed delight with the indigenous Gbagyi people, noting that the gathering reflects their strength, resilience, and aspirations.

    Mahmoud stated that the youth remain the heartbeat of every society, with their energy, creativity, and determination essential for building inclusive communities and securing a prosperous future.

    Her words, “For the Gbagyi people of the FCT, your role is particularly significant as custodians of culture, values, and ancestral heritage.”

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    According to a statement issued by her Special Assistant, Media, Austine Elemue, the minister, emphasised that the conference offers an opportunity to celebrate Gbagyi identity and unity while addressing critical challenges facing young people, including access to education, skills development, employment opportunities, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion

    Also speaking at the event, the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Mustapha Danaki, affirmed that any society that invests in its youth is investing in its survival and progress.

    According to him; “Sustainable development is not just about infrastructure or wealth; it is about people, their mindset, character, skills, and values.

    “It is about youths who are prepared not only to demand change but to become the change. It is about youth who understand that their leadership starts with self-discipline, integrity, and respect for elders and institutions.”

    Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman Board of Trustees Gbagyi Youth Association, Amb. Ayuba Ngbako stressed that the event was organised to demonstrate that Gbagyi youth are no longer spectators in the affairs of the FCT but critical stakeholders and partners in progress.

  • Yusuf lifts families of deceased soldiers, vigilante with N25m

    Yusuf lifts families of deceased soldiers, vigilante with N25m

    The Kano State Government has presented ₦5 million each to the families of four military personnel and a vigilante who lost their lives in the line of duty in Shanono Local Government Area of the state.

    The cheques were presented by Major General Sani Mohammed (Rtd), Director General of Special Services, on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, at the 3 Brigade Nigerian Army Headquarters in Kano.

    The cheques were presented to the family members of the Nigerian Army Personnel, one personnel of the Nigerian Air Force and the spouse of a vigilante.

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    “The presentation is in honour of 3 NA personnel, a NAF soldier and a vigilante who paid the supreme price in the battle between November 2025 and January 2026.

    “I will not forget the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes. They remain super heroes and their sacrifice in defending lives and property would never be forgotten.

    “The government will not compensate them enough for their sacrifices to the country, nevertheless, we will continue to pursue the welfare of those in the battle front and the families of the deceased, while strengthening cooperation with security agencies to curb banditry and other criminal activities in the State,” the governor said.

    The Commander of 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Tukur, welcomed the support, saying it boosts morale.

    Beneficiaries, including Lance Corporal Yusuf Jibril, thanked the government for the compensation, pledging to use it for the welfare of the bereaved families.

  • APC chieftain hail Tunji-Ojo as Tinubu’s ‘star performer’

    APC chieftain hail Tunji-Ojo as Tinubu’s ‘star performer’

    A leading figure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State and Coordinator of the Ondo APC Elders Movement for Tinubu in 2027, Otunba Agboola Kelly, has described the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as an invaluable asset and one of the most outstanding performers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.

    Otunba Kelly hailed Dr. Tunji-Ojo fondly known as BTO as God-given illustrious son of Ondo State, whose visionary leadership has earned widespread admiration both within Nigeria and on the global stage.

    “BTO has truly revolutionised the Ministry of Interior,”

    “His appointment is a clear testament to his exceptional capabilities, and he remains our pride not just in Ondo State, but across Nigeria

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    Since taking office, the minister has driven sweeping transformations aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    These impactful changes, which gained momentum from 2023 onward, have delivered measurable results enhancing governance, fortifying security architecture, and building greater public confidence in the administration.

    He stressed that Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s unwavering commitment to excellence and results-oriented approach has positioned him as a cornerstone of the Tinubu administration.

    His stellar performance is not only inspiring nationwide support but also serving as a powerful catalyst for President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    In Ondo State, the APC Elders Movement continues to expand its influence and membership, with the minister’s leadership providing tremendous momentum and motivation.

    “He is fueling optimism and reinforcing belief in the government’s capacity to drive meaningful, lasting progress for our nation.”

  • HDAN urges minister to stop destruction of Abuja masterplan

    HDAN urges minister to stop destruction of Abuja masterplan

    The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) has raised serious concern over the worsening conversion of designated green areas to residential developments in Abuja, warning that the practice violates existing planning laws and undermines the Abuja masterplan.

    In a statement issued by the Executive Director of HDAN, Festus Adebayo, said the continued encroachment on green zones represents a direct breach of Nigeria’s urban planning and environmental laws, and a dangerous precedent for the nation’s capital.

    “Green areas are legally protected components of the Abuja Masterplan. Converting them for residential use is not only environmentally reckless, it is unlawful,” Adebayo stated.

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    HDAN boss cited the following laws and policies as the legal basis for its position namely: the urban and Regional Planning Act (Cap U2, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004), noting that the Act provides for the preparation, implementation, and enforcement of physical development plans.

    This is just as the Act prohibits developments that are inconsistent with approved master plans, including the conversion of designated green and open spaces without due process.

    “The masterplan legally defines land-use zoning within the Federal Capital Territory, including green belts, parks, buffer zones, and conservation areas.”

    Besides, HDAN boss noted that many developments on green areas proceed without publicly disclosed EIAs, in violation of the law.

    “The law is clear. The Abuja Masterplan is not a suggestion—it is a binding framework. Once green areas are destroyed, the damage is permanent and irreversible,” Adebayo advised.

    HDAN reaffirmed its readiness to work with government institutions, professional bodies, and civil society to ensure lawful, sustainable, and people-centred urban development in Abuja.

  • Ribadu, Aiyedatiwa, others receive MAU’s honorary doctorate degrees

    Ribadu, Aiyedatiwa, others receive MAU’s honorary doctorate degrees

    National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State have bagged honorary doctorate degrees from the Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola.

    Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State and his Zamfara State counterpart Abdulaziz Yari were the other two prominent personalities who were bestowed similar honour on Saturday when MAU held its 29th and 30th combined convocation.

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    The four were handed the symbols of their recognition just as over 7,000 regular graduands of the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 sessions for whom the combined convocation was organised were also awarded their respective undergraduate, postgraduate and academic doctoral degrees.

    Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Ibrahim Umar, said the four honorary degree recipients were carefully selected for reward in recognition of their exceptional contributions to a better Nigeria.

    He said that since its establishment in 1981, the university has been contributing significantly to the intellectual and moral development of Nigerian youths, but said the university faced certain challenges, including lack of all-round perimeter fencing to fully secure the expansive main campus.

    The Adamawa State governor who personally attended the convocation as a guest announced plans by his government to construct a five-kilometre internal road network within the university.

  • Okiro, Ebute canvas for support for Tinubu’s re-election bid

    Okiro, Ebute canvas for support for Tinubu’s re-election bid

    Former Inspector-General of Police Sir Mike Okiro and a former President of the Senate, Senator Ameh Ebute, have called on Nigerians to support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Okiro and Ebute spoke in Abuja during the unveiling of the Legacy Support Group for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope for Better Nigeria.

    Okiro, a former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, who was represented by Honourable Marcel Ezenwa, said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing everything possible to change the narratives about the country on all sides, thereby creating an enabling environment for economic development and growth.

    He further said continuous criticisms of the government without evidence would not move the country forward; rather, it would take the nation backward.

    “We are all here, we are all witnesses, many people are confessing. So, based on that, we decided to join hands to support the moving train.

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    “That is actually the picture we want to paint for the whole world; for Nigerians to make up their minds that let Mr President continue with the good job he is already doing,” Okiro also said.

    In his remarks, Ebute said he was extending his support through the legacy group and other support groups in the country to enable the President complete his eight-year tenure.

    Ebute, who was represented by the Chief Executive Officer of Hans Royal Homes Limited, Prince Henry Opara, also said his decision was to enable the President complete the good work he has started.

    He has a good mind for Nigeria and we have seen what he has been doing. Despite what people are saying, Rome was not built in a day. So, it is a gradual process,” Ebute said.

    Ebute, a former Pro-Chancellor of the National Open University, further acknowledged the President’s achievements so far, adding that President Tinubu meant well for the country.

    “Anywhere he stops, another person can continue. But he really has a good heart and intention for this country,” Ebute also said.

    Earlier, the National Coordinator of the group, Chief Chima Duru, said President Tinubu has wonderful legacies which will outlive his administration.

  • Metchie hails Kawule’s appointment

    Metchie hails Kawule’s appointment

    The appointment of Rt. Hon. Danlami Ahmed Kawule as the Commander-in-Chief of the Bauchi State Forest Guard has been warmly welcomed by security stakeholders, with glowing commendations pouring in for a leader widely regarded as disciplined, experienced, and mission-focused.

    Leading the tributes is Ambassador Dr. John Metchie, who described Hon. Kawule’s emergence as “a strategic and timely decision that strengthens Bauchi State’s environmental and internal security architecture.”

    Amb. Metchie, himself a passionate security professional, noted that Hon. Kawule brings to the role a rare blend of doggedness, operational intelligence, and administrative depth, shaped by years of public and community service and hands-on leadership.

    According to him, these qualities are critical at a time when forest security, environmental protection, and community safety are increasingly intertwined.

    “Rt. Hon. Kawule is not just another Commander; he is a professional who understands security as a system, rooted in training, discipline, intelligence gathering, and community collaboration,” Amb. Metchie said.

    He particularly commended the new Bauchi Commander-in-Chief’s professional approach to operations and training, stressing that effective forestry security goes beyond enforcement to include capacity building, ethical conduct, and sustained engagement with local communities.

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    Amb. Metchie expressed confidence that under Hon. Kawule’s leadership, the Forest Guard will evolve into a more responsive, intelligence-driven, and professionally trained outfit in Bauchi State, where he is also Commissioner of Housing and Environment.

    Amb. Metchie further described the appointment as a strong signal of the Bauchi State Government’s resolve for security and to protect forest resources in line with the drive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, efficiently being delivered by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

    This will curb criminality, including kidnapping and banditry, and institutionalise security best practices across the State, especially in forested areas.

    As felicitations continue to pour in, observers say Rt. Hon. Kawule’s leadership is expected to set a new tone for forestry and environmental security in Bauchi, one defined by discipline, professionalism, and good results.