The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Lawal chairs 58th State Executive Council meeting 

    Lawal chairs 58th State Executive Council meeting 

    Governor Dauda Lawal has presided over 58 sessions of the Zamfara State Executive Council meetings since taking office in 2023.

    On Monday, the governor presided over the 58th session of the State Executive Council at the council chamber in Government House, Gusau.

    A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that Governor Lawal has chaired 23 sessions of the Executive Council in 2025. 

    He also noted that, besides discussing important development issues, each meeting resulted in approval of projects that benefit the people of Zamfara.

    The statement read in parts, “For the first time in Zamfara State’s history, the government under Governor Dauda Lawal has reached a milestone by holding 58 Executive Council meetings, the highest decision-making body in the state. 

    Read Also: Governor Lawal launches €5.1 million European Union peace project 

    “The Executive Council’s discussions are central to approving projects, making decisions, and adopting policies, including the 10th-year State Development Plan.

    “Since his swearing-in in May 2023, Governor Lawal has actively led the council, chairing 13 sessions in 2023 and 22 councils in 2024.

    “This year alone, Governor Lawal has presided over 23 council sessions, leading to numerous approvals that have positively impacted sectors like education, health, infrastructure, the economy, and security in Zamfara State.

    “Overall, Governor Lawal has chaired 58 Executive Council sessions.

    “Approved legacy projects by the Zamfara Executive Council are either completed or underway. 

    “Notable projects include the nearly finished Cargo International Airport and the reconstruction and equipment installation in all general hospitals across the 14 local government areas.

    “More projects include building, renovating, and equipping over 500 schools across the state, and the construction of township roads in the capital and other local government areas.

    “These council meetings have yielded positive community benefits, reflecting visible development all over Zamfara.

    “With the 58th session of the council held today, Governor Lawal has distinguished himself among his peers as the governor with the most Executive Council meetings in the last two and a half years.”

  • Lawal appoints new VC for Zamfara State University

    Lawal appoints new VC for Zamfara State University

    Governor Dauda Lawal has approved the appointment of Professor Ibrahim Abdullahi Tsafe as the new Vice-Chancellor of the Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara (ZAMSUT) for a single term of five years.

    Announcing the development, the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada explained that the appointment followed the recommendations of the University’s Governing Council.

    Professor Tsafe, a distinguished academic, earned his Doctorate of Philosophy Degree in 2006 and was elevated to the rank of Professor in 2013 by Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS).

    Read Also: FG dismisses 38 senior officers from NSCDC for various infractions

    He has held several administrative positions, including Dean of the Faculty of Chemical and Life Sciences at UDUS, and has served as a visiting Professor at ZAMSUT since 2018, where he currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of Science.

    Governor Lawal anticipates the appointee to bring his vast experience and expertise to bear in taking ZAMSUT to greater heights, in line with the administration’s commitment to education and academic excellence.

  • Governor Lawal launches €5.1 million European Union peace project 

    Governor Lawal launches €5.1 million European Union peace project 

    Governor Dauda Lawal launched a €5.1 million European Union-funded project aimed at strengthening peace, stability, and resilience in conflict-affected communities in Zamfara. 

    The governor launched the Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response, and Resilience (CPCRR) project on Monday at the Rescue Hall, Government House, Gusau. 

    A statement by the spokesperson for the governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the European Union Ambassador, Mr. Gautier Mignot, was present at the launch of the 18-month CPCRR project. 

    The statement added that others on the ambassador’s entourage include the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission, Dimanche Sharon, and the IOM Head of Sub Africa (NW), Jean Nahesi Katumbakana.

    “The project is funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with Mercy Corps and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD). 

    “The project builds on earlier EU-supported peace and reconciliation efforts and aims to directly support over 95,000 beneficiaries, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, host communities, women, and youth in ten local government areas (eight in Katsina and two in Zamfara).”

    During his remarks at the launch, Governor Lawal emphasized that the importance of the peace project extends beyond policy papers and program schedules. 

    “It directly relates to the everyday realities of our people and reflects our shared commitment to creating a more stable, united, and strong society.

    “I warmly welcome the delegation of the European Union, ably led by His Excellency, Ambassador Gautier Mignot; our partners from the International Organization for Migration; representatives of implementing organizations; our revered traditional rulers; civil society leaders; and all distinguished guests. 

    Read Also: FG dismisses 38 senior officers from NSCDC for various infractions

    “Since this administration began, we’ve aimed to address insecurity clearly and comprehensively. Recognizing that lasting peace relies on addressing root causes such as exclusion, economic vulnerability, weak institutions, and eroded community trust, we’ve focused on these issues to inform our policies and partnerships.

    This intervention complements the Zamfara State Government’s efforts to strengthen local peace, revitalize livelihoods for youth and women, improve coordination across ministries and agencies, and support community dialogue mechanisms. 

    These efforts are driven by the belief that security, development, and good governance mutually reinforce one another and must progress in tandem.

    “On behalf of Zamfara State’s government and people, I thank the European Union for its continued partnership. I also commend the International Organization for Migration, CDD, and Mercy Corps for their expertise and collaborative spirit. Your investment at this critical time shows confidence in our reform efforts and shared hope for lasting stability.

    “Peace-building is a collective undertaking. It demands commitment from every segment of society and sustained cooperation among partners. 

    “It is therefore my honour to formally flag off the Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience Project in Zamfara.”

    Earlier, the European Union Ambassador, Mr. Gautier Mignot, commended Governor Lawal’s dedication and support to development partners in his effort to ensure a better Zamfara State.  

  • Zamfara opens Nursing scholarships for female students 

    Zamfara opens Nursing scholarships for female students 

    The Zamfara State government has announced a scholarship programme for eligible applicants across the state to study nursing.

    This was announced in a statement issued by the Zamfara State Scholarship Board on Tuesday.

    The statement said that, “Zamfara State Government is offering a full scholarship opportunity for ONLY female students to study Nursing at Nexus Nursing College, Katsina.”

    The board stated that eligible applicants must be female, be indigenes of Zamfara State, and be indigent students requiring financial support.

    The academic requirements for the scholarship are: SSCE with a maximum of two sittings, and a minimum score of 140 in JAMB.

    Read Also: FG dismisses 38 senior officers from NSCDC for various infractions

    The board added that some of the scholarship benefits include full payment of tuition fees, registration, accommodation, and allowances.

    Applicants are required to provide accurate academic and personal details on or before 24 December 2025, by completing the Scholarship Application Form available at https://forms.Gle/1 xy 5 Cjdtxfwyc 5 Gh 7.

    For more information, interested individuals can contact the following numbers: +234 703 977 7779 and +234 813 811 7715.

    Additionally, the state government has approved full scholarships for 20 students at El-Amin University, Minna, Niger State.

    Governor Dauda Lawal has graciously approved the award of full scholarships to 20 qualified students from Zamfara State to pursue undergraduate studies at El-Amin University, Minna, Niger State, as stated by the Scholarship Board’s Executive Secretary, Professor Rasheedah Liman.

    She remarked, “Initiative reflects the administration’s strong commitment to expanding access to quality higher education and empowering young people with the skills and knowledge required for national development.”

    The approved fields of study include Law, Accounting, Business Management, Criminology & Security Studies, Economics and Development Studies, International Relations &

    
Diplomacy, Mass Communication, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Computer Science, Cyber Security, Data Science and Analytics, Microbiology, and Software Engineering.

    
The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition and aims to support academically qualified students from Zamfara State to excel in diverse and strategically important disciplines.

  • Kano police nab notorious drug dealer, seize five bags of cannabis sativa

    Kano police nab notorious drug dealer, seize five bags of cannabis sativa

    Kano State Police Command has arrested a suspected drug trafficker and recovered five bags and 297 parcels of cannabis sativa.

    Police spokesman, Abdullahi Kiyawa, on Tuesday said operatives of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) detained the suspect -one Ibrahim Mohammed of Rijiyar Zaki Quarters, Kano.

    “He was found in possession of five bags and 297 parcels of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis sativa.

    “Investigations are ongoing to apprehend his accomplices and recover additional exhibits,” Kiyawa, a Superintendent of Police (SP), said.

    The Commissioner of Police in Kano, Ibrahim Bakori, said the investigation will soon be completed and if found guilty, the suspect will face the full weight of the law.

    Read Also: Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    Bakori commended the police officers for their “dedication and bravery.”

    He appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station, reassuring residents of the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, peace and security in the state.

  • Stakeholders converge in Abuja as firm launches advocates quality medication in community health

    Stakeholders converge in Abuja as firm launches advocates quality medication in community health

    Stakeholders from the health sector and the wider community gathered in Abuja on Friday, December 13, 2025, as AYMA Pharmacy and Stores commenced operations, with its management stressing the importance of quality medication in strengthening community health.

    The opening of the pharmaceutical outlet attracted healthcare professionals, community leaders, business stakeholders and residents of the area.

    Activities at the event included remarks from the management and a guided tour of the facility, during which guests were informed about the pharmacy’s services, operational standards and approach to patient care.

    Speaking at the event, a representative of the pharmacy, Mrs Aysha Magaji Bello, emphasised the need for access to genuine medicines and proper dispensing practices as part of broader efforts to improve public health.

    She said the availability of trusted medication, alongside professional pharmaceutical guidance, contributes to improved health outcomes and overall community wellbeing.

    Mrs Bello also noted that pharmacies have a responsibility to operate ethically by prioritising patient education and complying with regulatory requirements, rather than focusing solely on commercial interests. 

    She explained that AYMA Pharmacy and Stores was established to serve as a dependable healthcare provider for individuals and families.

    According to her, the outlet is positioned to respond to the growing demand for accessible pharmaceutical services in Abuja by offering essential medicines, wellness products and professional advice.

    Some attendees described the new pharmacy as a positive addition to the Wuse area, expressing optimism that its focus on quality and professionalism would enhance healthcare delivery within the community.

    The management of AYMA Pharmacy and Stores reaffirmed its commitment to supporting public health through trained personnel, reliable medication and a service-oriented approach as it begins full operations.

  • Arewa youths to Malami: stop blaming presidency, EFCC, go to court if you are clean

    Arewa youths to Malami: stop blaming presidency, EFCC, go to court if you are clean

    The Arewa Youth Advocate for Equity and Justice has asked former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to stop blaming the presidency or the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for his current investigation. 

    The organisation asked the former AGF to go to court to prove his innocence. 

    While addressing reporters in Abuja, National President of the association, Sani Zangina, noted that it is on record that the detained SAN was granted administrative bail by the EFCC.

    Zangina said, “As a seasoned legal practitioner and one who has attained the peak of the legal profession, it is expected that a SAN clearly understands the appropriate legal channels for seeking redress instead of resorting to public propaganda and emotional appeals for his release, rather than approaching a competent court of law, is not only unnecessary but also unbecoming of the revered status of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

    “Where there is any dissatisfaction with the conditions of such bail, or the need for its variation, the court remains the proper and lawful avenue for redress. Forgetting the way to court in such circumstances sends a wrong signal to the public and portrays a level of disrespect to the rule of law and the legal profession.

    “This development should serve as a lesson to all Nigerians, particularly those who once wielded enormous institutional powers. Institutions that were previously answerable to certain offices and individuals must now be respected and allowed to carry out their lawful duties without intimidation or media pressure.

    “The Arewa Youth Advocate for Equity and Justice wishes to clearly state that we are not in any way defending the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, nor are we apologists for any member of the former cabinet of President Muhammadu Buhari. However, as consistent advocates of equity, justice, and due process, we strongly believe that the rule of law must prevail at all times.

    “We therefore advise the detained SAN to immediately approach a court of competent jurisdiction to seek his freedom, if indeed he believes he is entitled to such relief. The court, and not the media space, remains the ultimate arbiter in matters of liberty and justice.”

  • Bauchi approves 100% salary increase for health workers, introduces rural allowances

    Bauchi approves 100% salary increase for health workers, introduces rural allowances

    The Bauchi State Executive Council (SEC) has approved a 100 percent salary increase for medical and healthcare workers across the state, with special focus on personnel serving in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

    The Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Dambam, disclosed this while briefing journalists after an extraordinary meeting of the State Executive Council held over the weekend.

    Dr. Dambam said the new salary structure would be supported by the introduction of special allowances for health workers posted outside local government headquarters, aimed at improving service delivery in underserved areas.

    He also revealed that the council approved the implementation of outstanding promotions for more than 2,000 healthcare workers in the state.

    According to the commissioner, the decisions followed the recommendations of a special committee constituted to assess the financial implications of a revised scheme of service for healthcare workers.

    “The outcome of the committee’s work is a 100 per cent review of the existing scheme, which represents one of the most significant welfare packages ever approved for the health sector in Bauchi State,” he said.

    Dr. Dambam explained that the measures were designed to retain skilled medical personnel, boost morale, and strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in rural communities.

    He added that peculiar allowances, including outside-posting allowances, were approved to encourage doctors and other health workers to accept and remain in postings outside metropolitan areas.

    Health workers under the State Primary Healthcare Development Board, he noted, will also benefit from the allowances, thereby ending long-standing disparities in welfare benefits within the sector.

    Read Also: Detty December: Noble Igwe encourages Nigerians to prioritise family

    The commissioner further disclosed that the council approved access to car and housing loans for doctors and healthcare workers as part of efforts to ease their financial burden and improve their quality of life.

    To enhance accountability and efficiency, he said biometric and verification systems would be introduced across health facilities in the state.

    Meanwhile, the State Executive Council has approved N900 million for the recapitalisation of Yankari Savings and Loans.

    The Chief Economic Adviser to Governor Bala Mohammed, Alhaji Yahuza Adamu Ningi, made this known while briefing journalists on the outcome of the council meeting.

    According to him, the recapitalisation became necessary due to the strategic importance of the financial institution to the state’s economy.

    “The sum of N900 million approved by the state government will not only stabilise the bank but also enable it to expand its operations and contribute more effectively to the economic well-being of Bauchi State through regular banking services,” Ningi said.

  • Yoruba group donates gifts to child patients at Dutse general hospital

    Yoruba group donates gifts to child patients at Dutse general hospital

    A Yoruba socio-cultural group, the Okun Development Association (ODA), Dutse Branch, Jigawa State, has presented gifts to children receiving treatment at the Paediatric Unit of Dutse General Hospital as part of its end-of-year humanitarian outreach.

    Speaking after the presentation, the Vice Chairman of the association, Mr Ojo Jacob Olanrewaju, who led members on the visit, said the gesture was in keeping with ODA’s long-standing tradition of giving back to society, particularly during the end-of-year period.

    He explained that the association has a history of carrying out similar charitable initiatives, including visits and donations to orphanages, correctional centres and other vulnerable groups.

    “This is a culture we have sustained over the years. At the end of every year, we try to put smiles on the faces of our brothers and sisters who are going through difficult times,” Olanrewaju said.

    He added that this year’s outreach focused on the Paediatric Unit of Dutse General Hospital, where gifts were distributed to children receiving care in both the medical and surgical wards.

    “You can see that the children are happy. Our aim is to share joy with them during this season and to pray for their speedy recovery,” he added.

    He further noted that the Okun Development Association comprises members of the Yoruba community residing in Dutse, stressing that the initiative was part of their commitment to giving back to the community in which they live peacefully.

    The vice chairman also commended the Jigawa State Government, under the leadership of Governor Malam Umar Namadi, for improvements in the health sector and other critical areas of development. 

    He called for more inclusive governance policies to address the needs of marginalised groups in the state.

    In his remarks, a nursing officer at the hospital, Dr Nasir Auwalu, expressed appreciation to the association for the visit and urged other organisations to emulate the gesture. He noted that such acts of kindness help boost the morale of patients, especially children, during festive periods.

    Also speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Malama Binta Usman thanked the association for its support and prayed for the emergence of more humanitarian groups like the Okun Development Association in Jigawa State.

  • Over 200 Paikoro women receive empowerment support as Cassava processing centre is commissioned

    Over 200 Paikoro women receive empowerment support as Cassava processing centre is commissioned

    There was palpable excitement and heartfelt gratitude in Paikoro as over 200 women from vulnerable and low-income households received empowerment support from the Founder of the Future Pathways Foundation, Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa.

    The empowerment initiative, which featured undisclosed financial assistance alongside a bag of rice for each beneficiary, was carried out during the commissioning of a Cassava Processing Centre at Jabo Jere Ward in Paikoro Local Government Area of Niger State. 

    Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa graced the occasion as Special Guest of Honour, adding significance to the event.

    The cassava processing centre was initiated by the member representing Paikoro State Constituency, Hon. Umar Nasiru, who described the project as a major step toward strengthening agricultural value chains, creating employment opportunities and improving grassroots livelihoods.

    Hon. Nasiru commended Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa for her consistent, people-focused interventions, particularly her support for vulnerable women across the constituency. 

    He noted that the empowerment gesture complemented the objectives of the cassava processing centre by directly supporting household welfare and enhancing women’s economic resilience.

    The beneficiaries, drawn from communities across Paikoro, expressed deep appreciation for the timely intervention, describing it as a crucial lifeline amid prevailing economic challenges. 

    The atmosphere at the event was filled with smiles, gratitude and renewed hope as the women received the support, many noting that it would help stabilise household needs and support small-scale livelihood activities.

    In her remarks, Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa said the gesture aligns with the mission of the Future Pathways Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations, especially women, through practical and dignity-driven interventions.

    She stressed that no household should go to bed hungry and that every woman deserves a means of support, no matter how modest. 

    According to her, empowering women at the grassroots remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen families, enhance food security and stimulate local economic activity.

    She further noted that the commissioning of the Cassava Processing Centre complements the foundation’s broader vision of promoting self-reliance, value addition and sustainable livelihoods in rural communities.

    Community leaders and stakeholders at the event also praised the initiative, describing the collaboration between public office holders and private philanthropy as a model for inclusive development. They called for sustained partnerships and similar interventions to deepen economic resilience among women and vulnerable groups in Paikoro and beyond.

    The event not only marked the commissioning of a key agro-processing facility but also underscored the transformative power of targeted philanthropy and community-focused development in restoring dignity, inspiring hope and creating lasting social impact.