The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • 16 die, four injured in Kano- Kaduna highway crash

    16 die, four injured in Kano- Kaduna highway crash

    Sixteen people have been killed and four injured after a passenger bus from Kano crashed at Tashar Yari along the Zaria-Kano expressway in Kaduna, yesterday.

    The bus was heading to Makurdi, Benue State when the accident occurred around 11:20am.

    Confirming the accident, Kaduna Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kabir Nadabo, attributed it to excessive speed that led to the driver losing control of the vehicle and ramming into a ditch.

    The FRSC Boss in a statement said: “There was a tragic Road Traffic crash involving a Toyota Bus with registration number TRB674ZG35XB traveling from Kano State to Makurdi which occurred at Taban Sani Junction, Tashar Yari along Zaria-Kano expressway, on 21st January 2024 at 11:20hrs.

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    “The accident was a lone one caused by overspeeding where the driver lost control of the vehicle and rammed into a ditch.

    “An initial investigation of the crash revealed that 20 people were involved, four were injured, and sadly, 16 people lost their lives.

    “The injured were conveyed to Makarfi General Hospital for immediate treatment while the deceased were deposited at ABU Teaching Hospital, Shika in Zaria along with the passenger Manifest to help in identifying the lost ones as well as reaching out to their families respectively.

    “As the lead agency in transport Management and Road safety, the FRSC is saddened by this unfortunate but avoidable incident. The Corps in Kaduna State will continue to perform its statutory duty of saving lives and properties and most fundamentally, creating awareness of the dangers of road safety vices and unethical road culture.

    “Kaduna State is a critical corridor, therefore the state command has established instruments of safety that will guide transporters on the importance of safe travels at all times.

  • APC sweeps Borno council elections

    APC sweeps Borno council elections

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno, has won all the 27 Chairmanship and 312 councillor positions in Saturday’s council polls in Borno state.

    The Executive Chairman of the Borno State Independent Electoral Commission (BOSIEC), Alhaji Lawan Maina, made this known while declaring the overall results of the election on Sunday in Maiduguri.

    “Following the conduct of the election on Saturday, today we have received results from the 27 LGAs and as empowered by the law under Section 10.

    Read Also: Ize-Iyamu: I will get Edo APC’s ticket, win gov election

    “In my position as the Chief Returning Officer of the state, I read out the results as follows :-

    “The ruling party, APC won all the 27 Local Government Chairmen in the state.

    “Equally, the ruling party has won all the 312 council members (councillors) in all the wards of the state.

    “With this, we have come to the end of this exercise and the certificate presentation to the winners will be made at a later date to be announced soon,” Maina said.

  • I don’t deserve to be governor, but God…

    I don’t deserve to be governor, but God…

    Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has said he does not deserved to be a governor, but it pleases God to bestowed me the honour.

    Mutfwang stated this during an Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service held at Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos to thank God for his political victory at the polls and at the Supreme court.

    The governor said: “I give gratitude to God, the one who know how to dethrone kings and enthrone kings. The God who opened the door and no man can shut. And the one who shot the door no man can open.

    “I give thanks to God for single me out of the Mutfwang family to lead the people of Plateau state. It’s an honour I do not take for granted. I appreciate this honor because I don’t deserve it. It has pleased God almighty to bestowed this honor on me, I therefore say thank you you to God.

    Read Also: Sacked Plateau lawmakers: We’re seeking legal, political solution – Mutfwang

    “I also appreciate the people of Plateau state, that you agreed with God to bring to this position of honour. If you had not agreed with God you would not have voted for us. You voted for us joyfully and willingly with no inducement to do so. I am whom I am today because you people cooperate with God to make me your leader.

    “I thank you for standing with us in the last seven months of trial. I tell you the truth, I almost gave up at some point. But God reassured us. I believe whatever gid has started, he will perfect it. And today we have the testimony of the faithfulness of God.

    “I thank you those who stood with us in the place of prayers. I saw Plateau people devoted to this struggle in prayers. If not for prayers, the enemies would have swept us off. The conspiracy and the gang us was huge, but because we knew we can thrust God in prayers. 

    “The mammoth crowned I’m seeing today is an indication to me that the expectations are high. And I know I have nothing to offer you on these expectations, but with God all things are possible. The same God that delivered us this far will never fail us. With two slice of bread and a fish, God fed thousands and there were leftover.”

  • 2027:Governor Nasarawa needs, by Sule

    2027:Governor Nasarawa needs, by Sule

    Nasararwa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule said, the kind of governor the state need in 2027 after him should be one that will be able to unite the entire people of the state.

    Governor Sule stated this weekend in Lafia during a thank you visit to a traditional ruler, Rtd Justice Muhammed Sidi Bage at his palace in Lafia following his Supreme Court victory in Abuja.

    He said: “Let me say and pray that whoever will become the Governor of Nasarawa State after me should be such that will unite the entire people of the state.”

    He said he believed that God will grant him victory “which is why I and my family’s luggage remain intact in the government house during the legal tussles.”

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    “My dream is to leave Nasarawa State better than I met it. And my dream is to see that Lafia as a state capital can compete with any other state capital in the country. I didn’t make any arrangements for losing.

    “I didn’t make any preparations for losing at the courts because in my mind and in my prayers I told and I prayed and asked God not to lead us to have arrested development in Nasarawa State,” he added.

    Governor Sule warned that the state could not afford to allow the ambition of some individuals to throw the state into a state of anarchy, stressing that the security agencies are on red alert to deal with any situation that could threaten the existing relative peace in the state.

  • Wada commends Gov Bello for achievements, stewardship

    Wada commends Gov Bello for achievements, stewardship

    A former Kogi Governor Capt Idris Wada, on Saturday, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Yahaya Bello, saying he could not but show his appreciation to the Governor for his notable achievements in the State, especially in the areas of security, healthcare, education and infrastructure.

    He said his visit was specifically aimed at commending Governor Bello for his sterling stewardship since he assumed office in 2016 and to convey his best wishes for his future endeavours.

    He also pledged his full support for the incoming administration in the state.

    The incumbent and his predecessor also discussed state affairs, the challenges of governance at various levels, particularly within Kogi State, and broader security issues.

    Bello, while welcoming former Governor Wada to his Zone 4 residence, in Abuja, described him as an exemplary leader and a statesman of progressive qualities.

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    He acknowledged the challenges the former governor faced during his tenure and commended the diligent efforts made within the constraints of available resources, particularly given the unique political challenges of Kogi State.

    “Sir, I feel deeply honoured to host you in my house, and I want to express my gratitude for all you have done, both within and outside your time in office as governor. Those of us following your footsteps are proud of your statesmanship and exemplary leadership. Your humility, fear of God and progressive qualities are virtues everyone speaks of.

    “I pray that God continues to guide and protect you with good health. As you are aware, I will be handing over to the Governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo, and the transition event is scheduled for next week Saturday. Ododo will need our support to succeed for the overall interest of the state. I want to thank you for this honour sir,” the Governor stated.

  • Borno putting final touches on 3.5% deductions for health insurance scheme

    Borno putting final touches on 3.5% deductions for health insurance scheme

    The Borno State Government is putting final touches on modalities for the start of premium deduction of 3.5 per cent from workers’ salaries for the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Agency (BOSCHMA).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the BOSCHMA law was assented to by Governor Babagana Zulum on August 15, 2019 to implement the Borno State Contributory Health Care Scheme.

    The Borno Head of Service, Alhaji Mallam Fannami,  made this known  in Maiduguri at a town hall for  stakeholders by BOSCHMA on financing the insurance scheme.

    “Let me call on all stakeholders gathered here to join hands in supporting the agency in the implementation of its mandate.

    “On my part as the head of service, I wish to assure you that my office will always collaborate with the agency in all appropriate and possible manners.

    “We will be seeking the necessary approval from Governor Zulum with the participation of the organised labour to begin the premium deductions of 3.5 per cent of the basic salaries of all state civil servants.

    “I am also going to liaise with the Secretary to the State Government to discuss other modalities to begin deductions from the salaries of political office holders as appropriate, ” Fannami added.

    He lauded the agency for the successes recorded so far in its four years of existence.

    The head of service said that necessary steps are being taken to ensure quality and accessible healthcare is delivered to all in Borno.

    Commissioner for Health, Prof. Baba Malam-Gana, said over 15 per cent of the state 2024 budget was allocated to health in line with “the Abuja declaration on funding healthcare”.

    Read Also: Air strikes kill 12 terrorists, destroy storage base in Borno 

    He urged the citizens of Borno to continue to enroll  in the insurance scheme, and urged philanthropists to support the vulnerable ones in the enrolment.

    Guest Speaker,  Dr Shehu Sule, a Medical Doctor  sought the support of well-meaning Nigerians for the scheme to succeed.

    Sule also urged government to increase funding of the scheme.

    Chairman of the Borno Network of Civil Society Organisations, Mr Bulama Abiso, urged politicians, corporate organisations and health partners in the state to also dedicate some percentage of their funds to support the scheme.

    In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of BOSCHMA, Dr Saleh Abba, said no fewer than 115,628 vulnerable persons had been registered under the scheme within the past four years.

    Abba said that about 183 Primary Healthcare (PHCs) facilities were accredited across the state by BOSCHMA in collaboration with National Health Insurance Agency (NHIA) to provide healthcare services to the beneficiaries while general hospitals serve as referral centres.

    Abba who lauded the state government for its sustained support to the scheme, said the agency has embarked on full digitisation of its operations for effective service delivery.

  • Massilia Motors win auto award

    Massilia Motors win auto award

    Massilia Motors has secured the prestigious Best Auto TV Commercial award in Nigeria for 2023.

    The honour was in recognition of the outstanding commercials produced for the Mitsubishi Outlander.

    The award took place last December 2023 in Lagos during the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Awards, with esteemed guests, including Mr. Joseph Osanipin, the Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and other prominent figures from the auto industry in attendance.

    The winning TV Commercial, a meticulously scripted digital advert, was specifically tailored for the African market and filmed in Lagos.

    Notably, all the models featured in the commercial are employees of Massilia/CFAO, adding a distinctive touch to the production.

    Currently broadcast in several African countries such as Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Benin, Gabon, and available online, the advertisement is translated into both English and French to cater to the diverse linguistic preferences of the Francophone and Anglophone audience.

    Read Also: Massilia Motors wins Innovative Company of the Year Award

    In addition to the Best Auto TV Commercial award, Massilia Motors also secured the Best Customer Service award at the same event, acknowledging the company’s exceptional commitment to delivering outstanding customer service to its vast clientele across the country.

    Reacting to the feats, General Manager of Massilia Motors, Olatunji Itiola, said: “We are delighted with the awards as we remain committed to providing sterling auto solutions to our esteemed customers.”

    Itiola said Massilia Motors, a joint venture between CFAO and Chanrai Groups, is dedicated to offering a wide range of Mitsubishi vehicles, including popular models such as ASX, Eclipse Cross, Outlander, L200, and Pajero Sport. The company also provides genuine spare parts and after-sales services in Nigeria.

    Earlier last year, Massilia Motors introduced the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander, a significant upgrade from its predecessor. The Outlander, available in two variants – H-Line and P-Line, boasts class-leading features and is positioned as an all-terrain vehicle suitable for on and off-road adventures, whether in the city or the countryside.

  • Firm to open fertilizer plant in Plateau

    Firm to open fertilizer plant in Plateau

    Duncan Fertilizer Company Limited will on January 24 open fertilizers blending plant at Lawrin, Heipang in Plateau state.

    The company is a subsidiary of the Duncan group under the OCI (Oil and Chemical Limited) in partnership with Plateau State Government in 2016 for fertilizer blending, distribution and supply as its core business.

    The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang are among expected guests.

    Read Also: Oyo senator distributes fertilizers to constituents

    A statement by Mainasara Illo said the company is fast evolving into one of the leading companies within the agro-allied chain in the country.

    He explained that as a blending facility in Plateau State with a wide distribution network, Plateau Duncan Fertilizer Limited is set to commence full operations and will continue to flourish in Nigeria.

  • New leadership for Nigerians in South Africa

    New leadership for Nigerians in South Africa

    President of Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, Frank Onyekwelu, has solicited for the support of all Nigerians in South Africa.

    Onyekwelu who was inaugurated as president of the association alongside other members of the executives last November, also promised to work for the good of all Nigerians.

    Onyekweru took over from Mr. Benjami  Okoli on November 4 following his election.

    He attributed some of the ill treatment melted out to Nigerians arriving South Africa like imprisonment and other kind of abuses for taking up the challenge to lead the association.

    He said: “We have no excuse to give to our children and our generations who are born / will be born in South Africa. Nigeria is our country and there is no better country than our country Nigeria. Let us all join hands to restore our broken image and build our great reputation in South Africa.

     “We need to leave behind outworn modes of thinking and act to achieve a Nigerian community that is cooperative and thoughtful about the future.

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    “As a community, we need to accept that there are challenges; then we think of how to bring solution to the challenges.

    “The NICASA National Executives, our belief and understanding is, we work so that the principles of human rights which are Accountability; Popular participation; Empowerment; and Non-discrimination are put into practice.”

    Listing his vision for the association, Onyekwelu said NICASA constitution will be reviewed and updated where necessary.

    He also said some forums will be created for all the Presidents/ Chairmen and General Secretaries of different Nigerian Stakeholders; Advisory Board drawn from Nigerian eminent Leaders and Elders; and Provincial Chairmen and Secretaries of NICASA for greater proximity in the NICASA Leadership.

    NICASA, he also added, “shall continue to partner with the Nigerian High Commission and the Consulate General of Nigeria South Africa to serve Nigerians in a better standard.”

    “We therefore call for partnership from various patriotic and Nigeria loving organizations to partner with NICASA to see to the transformation of leadership on Nigerians in South Africa.”

  • Speaker Abbas sympathises with victims of Kaduna market fire

    Speaker Abbas sympathises with victims of Kaduna market fire

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed sadness over the Wednesday’s fire incident at the popular Panteka Market in Kaduna.

    He lamented that the incident had caused economic losses to both the business owners and the workers in the market.

    The Speaker, who noted that the incident occurred at a time when there are economic hardships, described it as unfortunate.

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    Abbas, however, urged the victims to remain calm, praying that Allah will comfort them and replace their losses.

    He appealed to relevant agencies to take decisive measures in order to avert the future recurrence of the incidence.

    The Speaker also symphatised with the people and the government of Kaduna State over the unfortunate incident.

    The Director of the Kaduna State Fire Service, Paul Aboi, had said the fire burnt the timber section of the popular market, adding that no life was lost.