The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • We won’t be distracted by unnecessary criticisms, says Idris

    We won’t be distracted by unnecessary criticisms, says Idris

    Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris said he won’t be distracted by unnecessary criticisms in his bid to execute developmental projects in the state

    Idris said this yesterday at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, when he received members of a political group, the coordinators of Kauran Gwandu, on a visit.

    “Our detractors have thought that we will fail and that we will not deliver on the desired projects.

    “But we have so far shamed them by trying our possible best in the provision of the basic infrastructure for the people of the state.

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    “We will sustain this happy trajectory and we will continue to carry the people while administering the state,” he said.

    He said that the government was not owing workers’ salaries, pensions, gratuities or death benefits, adding that the government was committed to the execution of quality and durable projects.

    Idris said construction work on the state secretariat complex was nearing completion, saying that the secretariat would help to streamline the activities of the government and enhance the efficiency of government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

    He commended the group for its invaluable contributions to his administration.

    Earlier, the Chairman of the group, Alhaji Musa Tungulawa, also the state’s Commissioner for the Environment, lauded the state government developmental strides.

    He said that a lot had been achieved by the administration in its few months in office.

    “We are also here to rejoice with the governor on the series of victories at the courts as regards the 2023 poll,” the chairman said.

  • NMA to Bello: your investments in health unmatched

    NMA to Bello: your investments in health unmatched

    The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Kogi State chapter, has lauded Governor Yahaya Bello for his massive investments in Kogi health sector, declaring that the governor’s giant strides in the sector are unmatched in the country.

    The medical doctors said under the administration of Governor Bello, the health sector received the greatest attention and commitment in terms of standard health care delivery for the people of the state in the last eight years, noting that “this has never been witnessed before in the state.”

    Kogi NMA, in a goodwill message written to the governor and signed by its Chairman, Dr. Baoku Olusola and Secretary, Dr. Jonah Bola Kelvin, heaped praises on Governor Bello for prioritising the health sector and funding it massively.

    The doctors maintained that the infrastructure and plethora of other health care facilities built by the current administration had made Kogi health sector a model to copy by other states.

    While appreciating Governor Bello for approving the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and the hazard allowance of doctors in Kogi State, even when 26 other states of the federation had yet to implement any of them, the association told the two-term governor: “Your name has been written in gold and you will never be forgotten Sir as the conqueror.

    “All the doctors in Kogi State write to express our profound gratitude to your Excellency on the unprecedented unmatchable and indelible mark you have made in the health sector in the state. We appreciate the great and giant strides you have achieved since your divine assumption into the office of the Governor of Kogi.

    “We acknowledge your achievements in the area of passion, commitment and unwavering dedication to the health of all Kogi indigenes demonstrated by the huge investment your administration committed to the infrastructure and other health care facilities in Kogi State.

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    “We appreciate the prompt payment of salaries of members, the current payment of 50 per cent hazard allowance, the cash donation to all the widows of our late colleagues, the grand reception of our members in government house during our courtesy visit, the cash donation to all the medical students of Federal University, Lokoja, the security of lives and properties enjoyed by doctors in Kogi State and the enabling environment your administration has provided for all our members to be able to discharge their duties effectively in the state.

    “We are confident and can boldly say that the health sector received the greatest of your attention and commitment under your administration and this has never been witnessed before in the state.

    “We hereby send you this goodwill message wishing you God’s continuous protections, blessings and favour. We pray Almighty Allah continue to direct your path, strengthen you and grant all your heart desires. Most especially, we pray that God takes you to the highest level of service to the nation.

    “We want to affirm that you are the greatest legacy your dearest mother has given to Kogi State and we pray that God continue to rest her soul in the bosom of Almighty Allah. As we celebrate this festive period, we wish you season greetings and many more years in life,” the doctors’ message to Governor Bello read.

  • Ajia pushes for strong, resilient economy

    Ajia pushes for strong, resilient economy

    Politician and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Funab Group, Alhaji Ibrahim Ajia is pushing for a strong and resilient economy in the country.

    He called on Nigerians to work together to create an economy that not only benefits them today but generations to come.

    Ajia made the call after visiting President Ahmed Bola Tinubu at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.

    The CEO in a statement: “As we bid farewell to the challenges of the past year, let us welcome the fresh beginnings and endless possibilities that the New Year brings. Let our hearts be filled with possibilities, hopes, aspirations, and anticipations for a brighter future, especially with regards to our country’s economy and security.

    “The year 2024 holds great potential for economic growth and stability for our beloved nation, Nigeria. Let us work together, hand in hand, to build a strong and resilient economy that will not only benefit us today, but also generations to come; that will also make our businesses thrive, investments flourish, and job opportunities abound for all our citizens.”

    Ajia noted that the issue of security challenges should not be taken lightly.

    He said: “We call upon our leaders, both at the states and national levels, to govern with the fear of God and good conscience. The protection and well-being of the people should be their highest priority.

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    “Let us invest in our security forces, equip them with the necessary tools, and provide them with ample training and support. Only then can we truly ensure the safety and peace of our people.

    “Our hearts go out to the people of Plateau and Kaduna states who have endured immense pain and loss due to acts of violence and insecurity. We stand in solidarity with you, and we call upon the government to do everything within their power to bring swift justice to the perpetrators.

    “Let us not allow such tragedies to become a recurring nightmare in our society. It is imperative that we address the root causes of these conflicts and work towards lasting peace and reconciliation.

    “We must never forget that the responsibility of safeguarding the lives and properties of innocent citizens lies with the government.

    “We must hold our leaders accountable and demand that they live up to their duty to protect us. We call upon the government to thoroughly investigate all cases of violence and bring those responsible to justice. It is only through their actions that we can restore faith in our government and ensure the safety of our communities.”

    To the leaders, he stated, “We urge you to implement policies that will alleviate the suffering of our people. We understand the challenges and complexities of governance, but we implore you to always have the welfare of the citizens at heart.

    “Focus on initiatives that will provide access to quality education, healthcare, affordable housing, and basic infrastructure. With this, you will be uplifting the lives of millions and leaving a legacy of positive change.”

  • Multi-billion naira water project for Jigawa

    Multi-billion naira water project for Jigawa

    The Federal Ministry of Water Resources’s team of experts arrived Jigawa for technical discussion and possible commencement of multi-billion Naira Dutse Greater Water project in the state.

    The team led by a Deputy Director of Urban Water Supply in the ministry, Abu Hassan, visited to Governor Malam Umar Namadi at the Government House.

    Receiving the team in his office governor, Mallam Namadi assured his administration efforts in collaboration with the ministry for timely completion of the project.

    The governor said: “This is a project that is very dear to us as a government and the people. We have a target: Dutse as a state capital must have an adequate water supply, and together, we are going to make this project a reality, in sha Allah. We already have the design, the bill of quantity, and other necessary documents needed for the project’s execution.

    “The Dutse water project is a key priority of our government. As such, the state government remains resolute in its efforts to meet the water needs of the people, with the Dutse Water project standing as a testament to its commitment to improving the lives of residents.

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    “The administration looks forward to the successful collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and the timely realization of the Dutse Water Project, marking a significant milestone in the provision of clean and adequate water to the residents of Dutse and its environs”.

    Hassan told the governor that the project is captured in the 2024 budget.

    He said the team is in the state to have a technical discussion with the state ministry of water resources on the project, “also to inspect the area and see by ourselves an earlier plans and survey made by the state government”.

    He started further that their visit was part of a fact-finding mission to gather information in collaboration with the state government’s technical team.

    “The commitment demonstrated by Governor Namadi aligns with our shared goal of providing essential services, particularly in the critical area of water supply,” he said.

  • Group commends Tinubu, Edu for aid to Plateau attack victims

    Group commends Tinubu, Edu for aid to Plateau attack victims

    Plateau Humanitarian Vanguard (PHV), a social-cultural group in the North Central zone of Nigeria, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, for swiftly coming to the aid of the affected communities in the recent attacks in Plateau State.

    The group, in a press statement Wednesday night, said, such humanitarian interventions, in the face of hunger and displeasure caused by the attacks, may though not compensate for the lost lives, but “can give the people the sense of belonging and ameliorate the momentous pains occasioned by the unfortunate attacks”.

    Dr. Edu, had in a condolence message to the people of Plateau after the attack, said government would mobilize immediate support to affected communities.

    A statement by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris, on the 28th December, 2023, also quoted the President as directing the “Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and other relevant agencies to work with the Plateau State Government to deliver immediate humanitarian relief to the affected communities”.

    Consequently, Dr. Edu caused distributions of food and non-food relief materials to the victims of the attacks in Plateau State yesterday.

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    The Minister who also visited affected communities for an on-the-spot assessment of the affected area with her counterpart from the Ministry of Defence and Service Chiefs was on the ground to coordinate Hummanitarian Responses as directed by President Tinubu.

    Reacting to the development through a statement, Comrade Jonah Pam, President of Plateau Humanitarian Vanguard, said the timely response of the federal government through the Humanitarian Affairs Minister, has given the people hope in the Asiwaju administration.

    “This quick humanitarian interventions mean a lot to the people. A lot is already happening to the displaced people already and we definitely believe that any little support from government, individuals and organisations would go a long way to cushion the pains.

    “We believe that no amount of humanitarian interventions can bring back our loved ones; but we also know this is not the first of such attacks in the past. What we normally get from the government at the central is a well crafted and rehearsed press statement, condemning the attack. And it ends there.

    “At least, the coming of Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu as President of Nigeria has shown them how things should be done in this situation.

    “We also pray that it does not end in providing humanitarian interventions. The security agencies, especially the military, should live above board and get the perpetrators to pay for the heinous crime. It is a genocide against our people and we would not like it to sleep, as usual”, Comrade Pam said.

    The statement also called on international humanitarian organisations, local organisations and well spirited individulas not to leave the welfare and wellbeing of displaced persons in the aftermath of the killings to the Federal Government alone.

  • Alia unfolds plans for state, council reforms

    Alia unfolds plans for state, council reforms

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has unfolded plans for reforms in the state and local government.

    He said the move will ensure transparency, efficiency and better service delivery.

    The governor, in his New Year Message, said that the security of life and property will remain a priority of his administration.

    He also reiterated his determination to fight the infrastructure battle across the three zones.

    Emphasising the need for robust reforms in state and local government services, Rev. Fr. said they will foster in accountability in public service delivery.

    He said: “Through these reforms, we seek to build a government that is responsive to the needs of our people, and one that fosters an environment conducive to sustainable growth and development.

    “Our commitment to the holistic development of Benue state encompasses various sectors, including agriculture, health, and education. “We shall invest substantial resources and expertise into these areas, with a focus on modernizing our agricultural practices, improving access to quality healthcare, and providing quality education for our children. Together, we shall lay a solid foundation for a prosperous and healthy society.

    On security, Rev. Fr Alia said: “The safety and security of every citizen of Benue state remains of utmost importance to us. We are steadfast in our determination to enhance the security apparatuses across the state, ensuring a peaceful and harmonious coexistence for all.

    “We shall continue to work hand in hand with relevant security agencies, deploying resources and strategies to safeguard our communities and protect lives and property, and to get our IDPs back to their ancestral farmlands and homes.”

    The governor sought for the cooperation of stakeholders his policies and programmes in his New Year message to the state.”

    Stressing that infrastructural development is key, Rev. Fr Alia said: “We shall not relent in our efforts to construct and upgrade roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure across the state, thereby enhancing ease of movement and fostering economic growth. Together, we shall build a solid foundation upon which future generations can flourish.”

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    The governor thanked the people for their unwavering support, dedication and resilience, which have propelled his administration forward in its quest to make Benue a great and prosperous place.

    He said much premium would be placed on welfare, including the welfare of workers and retirees, adding that a happy workforce is the backbone of a thriving society.

    The governor said hard work should be rewarded to serve as motivation to workers.

    He said: As we embark on this new journey, I implore every citizen of Benue state to continue to exhibit the highest level of lawfulness and adherence to our statutes. Let us embrace the spirit of unity, tolerance, and respect for one another, irrespective of our diversities. Together, we can create a society where justice, peace, and progress thrive.

    “Let us embrace this new year with renewed hope, determination, and courage to face the challenges that lie ahead. I believe in the unwavering spirit of resilience that characterizes the people of Benue state – a spirit that will propel us to greater heights.”

  • Minister enjoins nursing mothers on exclusive breastfeeding

    Minister enjoins nursing mothers on exclusive breastfeeding

    The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Bunkure on Monday urged nursing mothers to practise exclusive breastfeeding, immunise their children, and prioritise their health.

    Dr Bunkure spoke at the Ayaura Comprehensive Primary Health Centre, Abaji in the FCT, where she welcomed the first babies of the year at the PHC.

    The first babies (twins) of the year at the PHC, Muhammad and Ahamed Musa, who weighed 2.9kg and 2.8kg respectively, were born at 12.45 a.m. on January 1 to Mr. and Mrs Haruna Musa.

    Bunkure said the visit to the health centre was in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

    She said: “It is great to be in Abaji. The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, set the pace earlier today when she visited the National Hospital, Abuja, and we are here to replicate what she did at the grassroots.

    “We are here in Abaji to receive our babies of the year, and this is part of inclusiveness in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the government.

    “I urge all mothers to feed very well, practise exclusive breastfeeding, and take their children to the health centres for immunisation. This way, we will be able to fight vaccine-preventable diseases in the country,” the minister said.

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    The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment of the FCT, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, also urged the mothers to adhere to health workers’ instructions and take antenatal and postnatal care seriously.

    Fasawe said: “I encourage mothers to practise exclusive breastfeeding because it plays a crucial role in the health, growth and development of the babies, and has benefits for the mothers.

    “It is important that expectant mothers access antenatal care to prevent untoward complications.

    “Just like antenatal care, postnatal care helps to promote healthy lifestyles, detect and prevent diseases, and reproductive health.”

    Fasawe noted that the government is committed to improving the health and well-being of the residents in the territory and Nigerians at large.

    Meanwhile, the Ona Abaji and Chairman of the Council of Chiefs in Abuja, Dr. Adamu Yunusa, appealed to the government to ensure that the children in Abaji are also enrolled in schools to reduce the number of out-of-school children in the country.

  • Kano Gov swears in 21 New Permanent Secretaries

    Kano Gov swears in 21 New Permanent Secretaries

    Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State administered the oath of office to 21 new permanent secretaries and 14 special advisers yesterday.

    Emphasising the transparent and non-partisan nature of their selection, the governor asserted that their appointments were devoid of any political bias.

    “We selected the best in competence, experience, dedication to duty, and proven fear of God,” Governor Yusuf said.

    He urged the newly appointed officials to strive for excellence, vowing that their contributions were integral to a brighter future for Kano.

    Yusuf highlighted the pivotal role these individuals play in fostering a renewed commitment to transforming Kano into a beacon of hope and development.

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    Stressing a strict stance against incompetence and office malpractice, he implored the appointees to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to serving the people and advancing the state’s interests.

    “While acknowledging the inevitability of human error, I urge caution in fulfilling the oath you’ve taken,” he cautioned, underlining the need for impeccable service delivery.

    The governor sternly advised against using political considerations as a metric for discharging their duties, urging a culture of sincerity and eschewing gossip.

    “Should you faithfully discharge your duties, boundless opportunities await,” Governor Yusuf said.

  • Nigerians will soon enjoy gains of subsidy removal, says Gombe Gov

    Nigerians will soon enjoy gains of subsidy removal, says Gombe Gov

    Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya yesterday, said Nigerians would soon enjoy the gains of fuel subsidy removal.

    Yahaya stated this in Gombe while inaugurating the phase two of the state’s palliative distribution to residents of the state.

    He stated that President Bola Tinubu, in collaboration with the state governors, was intensifying efforts to ensure an end to the hardship caused by the removal of subsidy on petrol.

    He said a lot of investments were being made aimed at moving Nigerians out of the present economic hardship they were facing.

    “It is our prayer that this thing (hardship) will be over by the grace of God and with the determination of Mr President and governors, we are going to ensure that Nigeria gets stable. We are going to move as fast as we could to end the hardship caused by the subsidy removal.

    “The principal reason for the hardship is the withdrawal of fuel subsidy but as at today the Port Harcourt refinery is resuming production.

    “Soon we will have our locally refined petroleum product getting to the people and there is no reason why such product that is made locally will cost as much as what it is costing the person now,” he said.

    The governor commended residents of the state and Nigerians for their patience since the removal of subsidy while assuring them of better days ahead.

    Speaking about the palliative distribution, Yahaya said it was meant for the poor and vulnerable in the 2,988 polling units in the state.

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    He said at least 30 persons per polling unit were expected to benefit, adding that in all about 90, 000 persons would benefit from the gesture.

    He advised the committee in charge of the distribution to ensure that the food items got to the needy and vulnerable.

    He said the palliative would complement the 420, 000 persons that benefitted in the first phase, which held in August 2023.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that shortly after the event and departure of the governor and top government functionaries, some suspected thugs carted away some of the food items.

    Security personnel at the venue were overwhelmed by the large number thugs who snatched bags of rice from some of the beneficiaries.

    Some of the items were destroyed as thugs scrambled amongst themselves to steal the food items.

    NAN reports that the items distributed were rice and spaghetti. (NAN)

  • Nasararwa LG Polls: NASIEC reviews timeline, releases election guidelines

    Nasararwa LG Polls: NASIEC reviews timeline, releases election guidelines

    Ahead of the August 314 local government election, the Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commission (NASIEC) has announce the review of the local government election timeline.

    Chairman of the commission, Ayuba Wandai Usman, said this yesterday in Lafia when he met with members of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC).

    The NASIEC Chairman pointed out that while the date for the elections remains unchanged, the commission found it necessary to adjust the timeline for the election.

    He added that the commission saw it expedient to re-jig the election timeline in order to conduct a free, fair, and credible election, adding that NASIEC not only adjusted the timeline but also introduced new schedules.

    According to him, the NASIEC reviewed the time for the conduct of primary elections by political parties participating in the exercise earlier slated to hold between January 3 and February 10.

    He said that conduct of party primary elections and resolution arising from the primaries will now be held between Wednesday, January 3 to Saturday, February 24, for both chairmanship and councillorship elections.

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    He said NASIEC has fixed February 27, as the last day for political parties to submit their list of candidates.

    Also, for the collection and submission of nomination forms, the commission is fixed between February 28 and March 11.

    “Publication of final lists of nominated candidates will be on April 3, while political campaign will commence on April 3, to Friday, August 30,” Wandai said.

    He emphasized that the local government elections would hold on August 31 as earlier scheduled.

    Responding, Nasarawa State Chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Council, Mr Cletus Ogah, while commending the NASIEC on its preparation to conduct the 2024 local government election, welcomed the adjustment of the election timeline which he said is in favour of political parties.