The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Kebbi begins training of 2,400 teachers

    Kebbi begins training of 2,400 teachers

    Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris said the state government in collaboration with POBITECH Consultancy Service has commenced the training of 2,400 primary schools teachers in the state.

    The governor, who said this yesterday while declaring the training opened at Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi, said the training followed his administration’s revolution in the state education sector.

    He urged teachers, parents and other relevant stakeholders to join hands with his administration to move the education sector forward.

    “Let me use this medium to inform this gathering that I’m going to give more priority to the welfare of teachers. This administration will support Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE).

    “We are going to modify and strengthen its operations to conform with the needs of our society,” he assured.

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    While urging the participants to be committed to the training, Idris reiterated his administration’s readiness to key into anything that would promote and project the teaching profession.

    Rector of Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Dr Usman Sani-Tunga, commended the governor for the initiative, describing training and retraining of teachers as the best way to drive the sector to prosperity.

    He assured the state government that the institution would do its best to give the trainees quality training using qualified and professional trainers.

    Chairman of Kebbi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Suleiman Khalid, said the training had been divided into six units, with 400 participants in each unit.

    Khalid, who listed English Language, Mathematics and Pedagogical skills as subjects for the training, said the programme was scheduled to last two weeks.

  • Association trains, empowers 510 traders in Kebbi

    Association trains, empowers 510 traders in Kebbi

    The Market Traders’ Association of Nigeria (MATAN), Kebbi chapter, has trained and empowered 510 traders on different trades to boost their capabilities in various businesses.

    During the graduation and swearing-in of the State Executives of MATAN in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, Governor Nasir Idris promised to assist the association to achieve its set goals.

    He commended the association for its “laudable foresight” and urged it to sustain the tempo for the benefit of other members.

    The Kebbi Commissioner for Commerce, Alhaji Usman Ladan-Dakingari, appreciated the governor for supporting the association both morally and financially.

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    He encouraged the new executive members to focus attention on what would bring unity among members and support the growth of Kebbi.

    Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad-Kanna, appealed to the marketers to consider the possibility of reducing the prices of goods and food items because the Muslims fasting period was approaching.

    The chairman also urged them to extend helping hands to the less-privileged as well as downtrodden “to attract the mercies of our creator”.

  • I sponsored five financial bills in six months, says senator

    I sponsored five financial bills in six months, says senator

    The senator representing Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has said he has sponsored five bills within six months in office.

    This, according to him, is to strengthen the nation’s financial sector and advance the use of technology in agriculture, to enhance food productivity and security in the country.

    The bills included National Food Reserve Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023, which seeks to develop the agricultural sector by ensuring national food security and income through marketing and storage services, Donkey Slaughter Regulation and Export Certificate Bill, 2023 and National Agricultural Land Development Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

    Others were Cassava Flour (Mandatory Inclusion into Flour Production) Bill, 2023, which seeks to provide a legal and regulatory framework for the mandatory inclusion of cassava flour into edible flour production in Nigeria and Electronics Transaction Bill 2023, which aims to offer legal and regulatory framework for conducting transactions, using electronic or related media.

    The Chief of Staff to the senator, Tunji Buhari, said this while featuring on a radio programme monitored in Ilorin.

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    The programme was designed to give account of stewardship to the constituents of the legislator within his six months in office.

    He said the senator, who is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Production Services and Rural Development, was passionate about agriculture sector with its contribution of 23 per cent to the GDP of the country in the third quarter of 2023.

    The politician noted that the sector can become the backbone of the nation’s economy if it is adequately harnessed with the right technology.

    He also disclosed that over 2,000 solar power street lights were installed across the 52 wards of Kwara Central Senatorial District, while two solar powered motorised boreholes were provided at Kankatu, Ibagun Ward of Ilorin East and Jato Community in Ifesowapo of Ilorin South Local Government.

    “Over 2,000 solar power street lights have been distributed across the 52 wards of the senatorial district. There is no ward of the four local governments that don’t have the solar panels. The essence is to enhance security in the respective localities. Others were distributed to major assemblies to enhance social interactions.

    “Two 3-1 solar powered boreholes were distributed, especially in Ilorin East and South local governments,  while others are ongoing”, he added.

    As part of measures to cushion the hardship occasioned by the removal of subsidy from fuel, Buhari said Senator Mustapha rolled out palliatives to complement the Kwara State Government’s efforts to reduce the hardship among residents of the state with the provision of 10,000 bags of rice and 2,800 live chickens for Christian brethren, the less privileged in the society, party faithful and communities for them to have a joyous celebration during the festive period.

    “Having realised the tough times the people are facing as a result of subsidy removal from PMS, the distinguished senator decided to support the efforts of Governor AbdulRazaq-led administration.”

     by providing multimillion naira palliative support, which comprises thousands of bags of rice, chickens and other food items for the constituents.

    “Apart from these items, he also provided cash donation to some individuals and less privileged individuals to enable them have joyous festive period”, Buhari said.

    The senator’s aide, however, noted that Senator Mustapha had approved the procurement and distribution of 1,000 JAMB forms, 500 WAEC and NECO forms for orphans and indigents, preparatory to granting scholarships to best performing students among them.

  • Abuja residents call for improved, affordable healthcare services

    Abuja residents call for improved, affordable healthcare services

    Some Abuja residents have called on the Federal Government to tackle out-of-pocket health expenditure and enhance the system, emphasising the need for prompt and quality medical attention.

    The residents also called for equipped health facilities, trained personnel and a robust health insurance system to ensure that every citizen has access to adequate care.

    They conveyed the messages in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Abuja, as the world celebrates the new year — 2024.

    A respondent, Mrs Stella Luka, a 42-year-old Teacher in Abuja, called for functional Primary Healthcare Centres in rural areas, saying the lack of services and drugs at such centres cause disproportionate burden on urban health facilities, resulting in overcrowding and longer wait times.

    She urged government to expand healthcare infrastructure and bring medical services closer to underserved communities.

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    Mrs Adama Sule, a civil servant who said she had been battling asthma for over 13 years, wanted government to address the high cost of medical services and medications, which she said is the reason why many individuals refuse to go to hospital.

    She said: “The cost of inhaler used in the treatment of asthma is now beyond the reach of many people. Many are struggling to afford even basic healthcare, let alone more specialised treatments.”

    On his part, Possible Chinedu, a cleric also residing in Abuja, emphasised the importance of trained healthcare personnel.

    He said: “The shortage of skilled doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals has been a persistent issue in the country.”

    Chinedu suggested that investing in the training and retention of healthcare workers is crucial in providing quality care to the population.

    Mr Issac Nosa, an Entrepreneur also living in Abuja, said disease prevention should be government’s top priority.

    He added that “with high burden of infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS, there is need for effective control measures in the country in 2024.”

    Nosa called for increased investment in preventive healthcare, including vaccination campaigns, public health education, and improved sanitation practices.

    Maternal and child health is an area of concern for Mrs Tabitha Marcus, a retired Nurse, who said that the country has one of the highest maternal and child mortality rates in the world.

    Marcus stressed the need for improved access to prenatal and postnatal care, skilled birth attendants, and emergency obstetric services.

    She said that investing in maternal and child health would not only save lives but also contribute to the overall development of the country.

    In addition to these key considerations, Mrs Mercy Adejo, the Founder of Women Strengthening Women in Nigeria, highlighted the importance of community engagement, health awareness campaigns, and mental health support.

    Adejo said involving communities in decision-making processes, raising awareness about health issues, and addressing mental health concerns would contribute to comprehensive and responsive healthcare system in the country.

    To address these challenges, Dr Solomon Chollom, a Virologist and a Public Health expert, urged government to prioritise healthcare in its policy agenda.

    Chollom emphasised the need for increased funding, strategic planning, and deployment of advanced medical technologies in the new year.

    “By addressing these issues, the country can work toward achieving a healthcare system that meets the needs of citizens and promotes the overall well-being of the nation,” he said.

  • APC forum canvasses support for commission

    APC forum canvasses support for commission

    The North Central All Progressive Congress (APC) Forum has canvassed support for the creation of the North Central Development Commission in order to accelerate the region’s advancement and to meet their development needs.

    Speaking yesterday in Jos the Plateau State capital during his new year felicitation and 2024 blue print of the forum’s goals, the forum’s Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Mandung Zazzaga, said establishing the commission will not only make the challenges and other unfortunate security situation of the North Central region to be tackled, but will also enable the region to explore its full potentials, utilize same and occupy its pride of place in the nation.

    Alhaji Zazzaga said the North Central region has great human and natural resources, and that it is a strong force to reckon with in terms of national politics, agriculture, education, mining and other mineral resources deposits.

    He said even Abuja the nation’s capital is situated in the North Central, and so the region is a full force to reckon with, adding that the region has contributed to the growth of the country in many aspects, and that it still has many more to offer to the development of the nation if properly positioned. 

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    That is why, he said, the APC forum is throwing its weight behind the Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District and former Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong’s push for the creation of the North Central Development Commission.

    He said according to Lalong who spoke recently on the floor of the Senate on the motion of urgent public importance moved by Senator Diket Plang (Plateau Central) on the Christmas eve attacks that left close to 200 people dead in Bokkos, Barkin Ladi and Mangu Local Government Areas of the state, he said unless the Government moves fast to stop the carnage and rebuild the lives and economy of the region, poverty and more insecurity will prevail.

    He said the position of Senator Lalong on the argument for creating the North East Development Commission and also at the verge of creating the South East Development Commission, that of the North Central Development Commission to address the damage of insecurity in the region is equally valid.

    Zazzaga called on all the stakeholders in the region to join hands and push for the actualization of the commission irrespective of political and other differences as the commission is for the benefit of all and sundry.

    The Chairman also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for having the region close to his heart and has so far been relating with it in a cordial and sincere manner, adding that the president should do everything possible to see that the commission for the region is established, as any tangible gains recorded by the commission will also be a credit to his administration.

    He urged the President to remain focused and continue doing his good works, as his leadership style is unique and will gradually take Nigerians to the ‘promise land’ with a full yield of the dividends of democracy.

  • Barau lifts 60 constituents with cars

    Barau lifts 60 constituents with cars

    The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has distributed 60 cars to the people of the state in furtherance of his empowerment efforts.

    According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, in Abuja, “thousands of constituents, supporters and well-wishers witnessed the distribution of the vehicles yesterday at the Meena Events Centre, Kano State.

    The beneficiaries of the gesture cut across all strata in the state including traders, farmers, civil servants and politicians, among others.

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    Senator Barau said the gesture was to ease the movements of the beneficiaries to their places of work, businesses and farms with a view of boosting the economy of the state.

    Represented by his Chief of Staff, Professor Muhammad Ibn Abdullahi, he reiterated his commitment to make his constituents self-reliant and contribute to boosting the country’s economy.

    He urged the beneficiaries to take good advantage of the vehicles and utilize them to empower themselves and other people in the region.

    “We are gathered here today for the distribution of 60 cars as part of efforts of the Deputy President of the Senate to empower and make our people self-reliant. With these cars, the beneficiaries will be able to carry out their businesses well and contribute to their quota for the development of the state.

    “This is not the first and it will not be the last by Allah’s grace, he would continue to carry our intervention programmes to enable our people to be self-reliant,” he said.

  • 2024 our years of redemption, Ododo tells Nigerians

    2024 our years of redemption, Ododo tells Nigerians

     Kogi Governor-Elect Ahmed Usman Ododo has assured Nigerians and Kogites that 2024 is their year of redemption. 

    Ododo, who expressed the assurance in a message to mark the New Year, said 2024 is the year when the hope of Nigerians will be renewed. 

    He said the decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement the fuel subsidy removal policy was the best in the interest of the nation’s economy, applauding his efforts at rebounding the nation’s oil refineries. 

    “We have gone through the sacrifice period of the oil subsidy removal. From the second quarter of 2024, we will bounce back stronger and our economy will be unstoppable from that point. 

    “I call on Nigerians and Kogites to continue to give total support to the present administration as it is working hard to improve on the living standards of the citizenry. 2024 is a year that will herald the arrival of Nigeria on the global stage,” he said. 

    The Governor-Elect charged Kogites to pray for him as he will be stepping into the shoes of Kogi’s best Governor ever, promising to justify the confidence reposed in him. 

    His words: “For us in Kogi State, it is a year of transition. I will be taking over from Kogi’s best Governor ever. It is a huge task to match the heroics of His Excellency Alh. Yahaya Bello but with God on our side, we won’t let down the flag of progress in our dear state. 

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    “It is a big challenge to take over from a hugely successful administration. But the Governor himself has prepared us mentally, administratively and politically for the task ahead. We won’t fail the people of Kogi State. 

    “Our agenda is to continue and consolidate on the achievements of the present administration in the state. We have no doubt whatsoever that we can build on the solid foundation that was laid by our leader and Governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello”. 

    He urged Kogites to continue to pray for the greatness of the state and Nigeria, saying Nigerians are already seeing the “bright light of the nation under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”.

  • Niger Gov. Bago extols late Akeredolu

    Niger Gov. Bago extols late Akeredolu

    The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has extolled the late immediate past Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, describing him as a dedicated politician committed to improving the lives of his people.

    Bago in a visit to President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, expressed condolences over Akeredolu’s demise.

    He praised the late Governor’s significant role in advancing the All Progressives Congress (APC) and admired his determination to lead Ondo State effectively.

    The Governor also extended New Year greetings to the President.

    While answering questions from journalists, Governor Bago highlighted plans for 2024, including the preparation of over one million hectares of land for farming.

    Read Also; 163,878 Nigerians enjoyed FG transportation rebate in 10 days

    He detailed initiatives to enhance rice and cotton production, as well as maize cultivation, to meet the high demand from poultry farmers.

    The governor also mentioned Niger State’s prominence in sesame production and discussed irrigation investments.

    Addressing the recent crisis in Plateau, Governor Bago termed it ‘unfortunate’ and shared plans for a condolence visit to Plateau State by the North-Central Governors Forum.

    He stressed the importance of strategic discussions on such matters, advocating for open dialogue to address issues and ensure the voices of the people are heard.

    The Governor was accompanied by stakeholders from the state, including the former Minister of Sport, Engr. Sani Ndanusa, the immediate past Deputy Governor, Ahmed Ketso, Sen. Mustapha Sani, the Member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal constituency, Hon. Saidu Musa Abdul, Hon. Lado Suleja and, a few others.

  • Hisbah wages war against street begging, immorality

    Hisbah wages war against street begging, immorality

    Katsina State Hisbah Board, has reiterated its commitment towards stopping street begging across the 34 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.

    Dr Aminu Usman (Abu-Ammar), the Hisbah Commander General of the board in Katsina, said this in an interview with reporters.

    According to him, the state government is doing everything possible to sanitise the state from all forms of immorality.

    “The state government is making efforts to stop street begging across the state, because it’s not part of our religion.

    “Begging only tarnishes the image of our religion and society.

    “The law establishing the Hisbah Board allows us watch all nooks and crannies in the state, to search for street beggars and screen them.

    “We screen them to find out those that are truly in need of support and we hand them over to Zakat and Waqaf board for assistance,” he said.

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    He said Governor Dikko Radda, established the Zakah and Waqfu board purposely to support those in need of help.”

    Abu-Ammar, however, stated that after the screening, those from other states are deported back to their respective states and handed over to the appropriate authorities there.

    He drew the attention of parents and other community members in the state, to watch over their children, because the government will no longer tolerate immorality.

    The board, he said, will not allow the youths, who are prospective leaders of tomorrow, to continue to be involved in drug abuse and other social vices.

    “No parent wishes to see the youths involved in drug abuse, therefore parents should cooperate with us towards making better days for the youths in the state.

    “I also appeal to religious and other community leaders, to support us towards achieving the government agenda in this aspect.

    The Hisbah Commander also appealed to residents to always expose places in their communities, where imoralities are committed.

  • Data management: CSO advocates adequate funding of NIMC

    Data management: CSO advocates adequate funding of NIMC

    A civil society, Citizen Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER) has urged the Federal Government to properly fund the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for effective planning.

    The Executive Director of CASER, Frank Tietie, said that the financial support was needed, noting that beyond the management of identity and helping security agencies with data, the commission could help in specific and accurate policy implementation.

    He said: “As an advocacy organisation, we are driven by our social responsibilities to support government agencies for the purpose of achieving fundamental objectives of government policies.

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    “We have emphasised the role of NIMC to development and in the improvement of living standards of Nigerians.

    “We believe that if NIMC will be able to carry out its functions and giving the needed financial support, it will be easier to have data for the purpose of economic planning and lives will be better for Nigerian citizens.”

    Tietie explained that lack of data was responsible for the basic problems of the country as it affected the social and financial inclusion of the citizenry.