The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Kaduna govt, UKAID launch PARSULP project to tackle farmers–herders conflict

    Kaduna govt, UKAID launch PARSULP project to tackle farmers–herders conflict

    The Kaduna state government has partnered with UKAID and other development organisations to launch a new initiative aimed at addressing the perennial farmers–herders conflict and strengthening community resilience across four northern states.

    The intervention, known as the Promoting Agropastoralism, Reconciliation and Resilience for Sustainable Livelihood and Peace (PARSULP) project, is implemented under the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRiNG) programme and covers Kaduna, Benue, Plateau, and Katsina states.

    Speaking at the launch, the general manager of the Kaduna State Agricultural Development Agency (KADA), Muhammad A. Rili, said the project aligns with Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to promoting agricultural growth and peacebuilding. He noted that development cannot thrive where communities are plagued by recurring conflict.

    Rili said the intervention will help reduce tensions between farmers and herders, promote dialogue, and strengthen existing community structures for conflict prevention. He stressed that sustainable resource management and the inclusion of women and youth are critical for the success of the initiative.

    Earlier, the Executive Director of Global Peace Development (GPD), Ebruke Onajite Esike, said the PARSULP project seeks to transform recurring agropastoral conflicts into opportunities for cooperation, resilience, and sustainable development. 

    He noted that violent clashes over land and water have displaced thousands and eroded social cohesion across the region.

    Esike said the project, funded by UKAID through Tetra Tech with ActionAid Nigeria providing supervisory support, will directly benefit 4,410 people and indirectly impact more than 19 million others. He disclosed that participatory rural appraisals conducted in 45 wards informed a Community Peace and Resilience Plan unveiled at the event.

    According to him, the plan promotes agroforestry, climate-smart agriculture, and joint livelihood initiatives designed to encourage collaboration rather than competition. 

    He added that the project will strengthen early-warning structures, support reconciliation efforts, and advance forest protection through policy advocacy.

    The event was attended by representatives of the Kaduna State Government, KADA, security agencies, local government officials, community leaders, and civil society organisations.

  • Activists seek stronger social justice movement

    Activists seek stronger social justice movement

    Civil society leaders, activists and development practitioners have called for a united front to strengthen Nigeria’s social justice movement.

    They made the call at an event organised in Abuja by TechHer NG – a civic technology organisation to commemorate 65 years of the Ford Foundation Office for West Africa with the theme: “Justice is not a destination, it’s in our journey.”

    They reflected on Ford’s impact, its partners’
    collective achievements, and the enduring work toward a just and equitable society.

    The stakeholders noted that Nigeria’s civic space was shrinking, creating new pressures on organisations working on justice, rights and accountability.

    Speaking at the event, the Executive Director, TechHer NG, Chioma Agwuegbo said the gathering was a moment of collective reflection for civil society, noting that the climate has grown increasingly hostile for activists and organisations.

    She said that the anniversary provided an opportunity for stakeholders to reconnect and reflect on solidarity amid changing political and funding realities.

    Agwuegbo said: “We wanted to interrogate a few questions, like resilience. How are we surviving as civil societies in Nigeria? How are we fighting things like civic suppression, the shrinking civic space, and the shutting down of dissenting voices? We often don’t have a lot of time to come back and reflect. A lot of us are creating silos.

    “Today, I hope that attendees and participants will make friends. I hope that they will collaborate after today because we have to find a way to spread and utilise effectively the lean resources we have.”

    She said through its Kuram platform – a TIV word meaning ‘keep you safe,’ the organisation has been able to provide a platform for women and girls to report online violence.

    Agwuegbo added: “The whole point of this for us is that as more people come online and use the Internet, TechHer has several programmes that invite women and girls to access, understand and use the Internet safely and meaningfully.

    “We want to ensure that as they are doing this they are safe. When there are incidents of violence perpetrators are caught swiftly and that women and girls are able to exist safely in public sphere.”

    Also speaking at the event, Chichi Aniagolu-Okoye, Ford Foundation’s regional director for West Africa, said civil society “must prepare for longer, more difficult struggles for justice.”

    She added: “This is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. We have to carry people along… Sometimes how you communicate is more important than what you are actually saying.”

    Aniagolu-Okoye noted that burnout has become common in the sector because organisations often focus solely on “big picture” outcomes while overlooking incremental progress.

    “We forget the little wins. Sometimes we don’t even know that we have won,” she said, adding that sustained civic resilience requires intergenerational input and broader participation across society.

    Activist and Co-convener of #BringBackOurGirls movement, Aisha Yesufu noted that movements must remain grounded in lived realities and moral responsibility, noting that injustice often persists because “some people just want to play God on earth here.”

    She added that many injustices in Nigeria are rooted in how religious teachings are interpreted and weaponised.

    She said: “Most of the injustice that we see stems from some people’s interpretation of the religious text.

    “Don’t tell me what your religion is. Let me see it in the way that you treat other human beings, with respect, with dignity, with love.”

    Yesufu warned that faith should not be used to elevate some citizens above others, adding that a society guided by empathy would reduce many of the tensions activists confront daily.

  • ACF at 25: Forum unveils 3-day events to celebrate unity, peace, development

    ACF at 25: Forum unveils 3-day events to celebrate unity, peace, development

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) unveiled activities lined up to commemorate its 25th anniversary on Tuesday, describing the milestone as a significant moment in its long-standing advocacy for unity, peace, and development across Northern Nigeria.

    Addressing journalists in Kaduna, the Chairman of the ACF Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, OFR, Wazirin Dutse, said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s journey, honour its founding fathers, and reaffirm its dedication to building a peaceful and prosperous region.

    Dalhatu noted that since its establishment in 2000, the Forum has spent the past 25 years championing Northern interests, fostering peaceful coexistence, and constructively engaging government on matters of security, governance, and economic advancement. He added that ACF’s interventions have helped shape national discourse and guide communities through challenges ranging from insecurity to social and economic exclusion.

    As part of the celebration, the Forum announced a three-day programme scheduled for November 20–22, designed to converge key stakeholders from government, traditional institutions, the private sector, and civil society nationwide.

    The commemorative events had earlier kicked off with a golf tournament held from November 20 to 22 at the Kaduna Golf Club, chaired by former Senate President, Senator David Mark. Dalhatu said the tournament was included to involve the elite class in the celebration.

    A youth football tournament began on October 31, with the grand finale set for Thursday, November 20, at Ranch Bees Stadium, Kaduna. The final match will be chaired by the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, with Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, serving as Special Guest of Honour. Dalhatu explained that the initiative is aimed at engaging young people, discovering talent, and strengthening social cohesion.

    Day One of the main programme will feature two roundtable discussions attracting dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria, including governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, business leaders, women and youth groups, and socio-cultural organisations such as PANDEF, Afenifere, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

    The first roundtable, themed Tourism for Security, will be chaired by Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu as Special Guest of Honour. Speakers will include Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede and Minister of Tourism Hannatu Musawa.

    The second session will focus on Elevating the Voices of Women and Youth in the Socioeconomic and Political Transformation of Northern Nigeria, chaired by UN Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Amina Mohammed, with a panel of leading academics, activists, and development experts.

    Day One will also include a mentorship session on agriculture, value addition, manufacturing, and ICT, featuring the Minister of Livestock Development, Engr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Engr. Jelani Aliyu, and NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi.

    Additionally, a three-day medical outreach by the General T.Y. Buratai Humanity Care Foundation and the Tuku & Tukur Foundation will run from November 21 to 23, offering free consultations, eye screenings, ENT services, and health education.

    Day Two, slated for Friday, November 21, will showcase state-level talent exhibitions and cultural performances highlighting Northern Nigeria’s diversity.

    Read Also: Ex-SDP flagbearer tasks ACF to help rebuild national unity

    The highlight of the day will be a Dinner and Award Night chaired by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, with Vice President Kashim Shettima as Special Guest of Honour and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas as Guest of Honour. Awards to be presented include the Arewa Lifetime Achievement Award, Distinguished Service Award, and the Arewa Prize for Excellence.

    Day Three will feature the plenary session and the launch of the ACF endowment fund, chaired by former Vice President Namadi Sambo. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to be the Special Guest of Honour, while industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote will deliver the keynote address.

     Other leading business figures, including Abdulsamad Rabiu, Muhammad Indimi, Dahiru Mangal, Bukola Saraki, and Sayyu Dantata, will serve as launchers and co-launchers.

    All events will take place at the Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna.

    Dalhatu said the anniversary is aimed not only at reflecting on past achievements but also at shaping the future of ACF’s contributions to Northern Nigeria.

    He reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to its founding ideals and expressed hope that the celebrations would help renew conversations on the region’s future and Nigeria’s collective progress.

  • Matawalle delivers Tinubu’s message to troops in Zamfara

    Matawalle delivers Tinubu’s message to troops in Zamfara

    …vows to end remnants of bandits in northwest

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has delivered a strong message from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA at the North-West Theatre Command Headquarters in Gusau, Zamfara State, charging them to completely eliminate the remaining remnants of bandits terrorising the region.

    Speaking on Friday, Dr. Matawalle conveyed President Tinubu’s deep appreciation for the troops’ patriotism, courage, and remarkable successes in decimating bandit formations across the Northwest.

    “Mr. President specifically asked me to tell you that you have done exceedingly well,” he said. 

    “Most of the key bandit leaders and their foot soldiers have been neutralised through your gallant effort. 

    “What remains now are a few scattered elements, and the Commander-in-Chief has directed that these remnants must be wiped out completely. 

    “He assures you of every necessary support — logistics, equipment, welfare, and morale — to finish the job.”

    Dr. Matawalle, who was received on arrival by the Theatre Commander, Major-General Warrah Bello Idris, praised the troops for their resilience and professionalism, describing their sacrifices as the bedrock of the gradual return of peace to Zamfara and neighbouring states.

    READ ALSO; Tuggar blames structural weakness for unconstitutional changes of govt, others

    He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to providing all required resources, including enhanced welfare packages, modern platforms, and real-time intelligence, to sustain the momentum of the counter-insurgency campaign.

    The Theatre Commander, Major-General Idris, welcomed the ministerial visit as a morale booster and a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s personal interest in the welfare and operational success of troops in the Northwest.

    During an operational briefing, the Minister was updated on recent successes, including the neutralisation of high-value targets and the reclamation of several communities previously under bandit control.

    In a direct address to hundreds of officers and soldiers drawn up on the parade ground, Dr. Matawalle charged them to remain vigilant, disciplined, and focused, stressing that total victory over banditry in the Northwest is now within reach.

    “Your sacrifices will never be in vain. The President is proud of you, the nation is proud of you, and very soon, the people of this region will sleep with their two eyes closed,” he declared.

    With the dry season operations intensifying, security analysts believe the renewed presidential backing and ministerial reassurance will galvanise troops towards delivering a decisive blow that will finally end the decade-long banditry scourge in Nigeria’s Northwest.

  • 2027: Northern minorities declare support for Tinubu’s re-election

    2027: Northern minorities declare support for Tinubu’s re-election

    Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a conglomerate of socio-cultural organisations, Northern Nigeria Minorities Group (NNMG), have thrown their weight behind the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The non-partisan group declared their support for the president during a courtesy call on the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, at the party secretariat in Abuja.

    Commending the resolve of the group, Yiltwada described as patriotic the support by minority ethnic groups in Northern Nigeria for President Tinubu.

    Represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Mustapha Bala Dawaki, the APC leader said all initiatives to support the current government are well considered as the administration means well for the country.

    He noted that the initiative by NNMG to support the President independently reflects a deep appreciation of the good work the administration is doing and shows that the group is concerned about the development of the country.

    READ ALSO; NELFUND’s disbursements hit N116b for students’ fees, upkeeps

    Yilwatda noted that for the group to be promoting and defending the interests of the Tinubu-led APC administration without prompting from any quarters shows that the group is “patriotic and means well for Nigeria.”

    Earlier, the Convener of the group, Chief Jacob Edi, explained that the group was formed to support good initiatives aimed at improving the lot of the citizenry.

    The group commended the fair sharing of allocation of resources, projects, and appointments by the Tinubu-led administration, which he said has been based on merit and objectivity.

    Edi cited projects and appointments beneficial to minority ethnic groups in northern Nigeria, to include the establishment of a North Central Development Commission, Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Kaduna State, Nigeria College of Aviation Technology in Kwara State, many road projects and his support for the emergence of Yiltwada as APC national chairman.

    Edi said the group represents the over 200 minority ethnic groups in northern Nigeria and has members spread across the 19 northern states.

    “We are ready to work day and night to ensure President Tinubu not only wins a second term but delivers a resounding, unchallengeable victory that will silence doubters and consolidate progress”, he stated.

  • Ganduje empowers over 3,000 youth, receives 500 NNPP defectors in Kano

    Ganduje empowers over 3,000 youth, receives 500 NNPP defectors in Kano

    The son of the immediate past national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress  (APC) and the Executive Director, Technical Services, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Umar Abdullahi Umar, has empowered more than 3,000 supporters of APC in Kano state.

    Umar, whose father was the former governor of Kano state, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, launched the first phase of the empowerment programme at an event held at Armani Event Centre in Kano on Sunday evening.

    A statement released on Monday in Abuja by the Chief Press Secretary to the former chairman of the APC, Edwin Olofu, said the empowerment package, distributed to the youths across all the 44 local government areas of the state, includes agricultural inputs, among others, aimed at boosting agriculture and making the beneficiaries self-reliant.

    Umar was quoted in the statement to have described the empowerment as the tip of the iceberg of a broader scheme planned for people, especially for youth and women in the state.

    Addressing a large crowd of beneficiaries, Umar said his passion to help the populace prompted him to introduce an empowerment scheme, not only for the constituents of Tofa/Dawakin-Tofa, Rimingado federal constituency, where he hails from, but people across the state.

    Umar hinted that plans are also underway to launch the second phase of the initiative.

    “We have already begun plans for the next phase of this empowerment. This is not the end. Any APC member who did not receive support today should not lose hope; your turn will come,” he assured.

    The empowerment items distributed include tricycles, mini-trucks, fertilisers, herbicides, improved seedlings, and solar-powered.

    READ ALSO; NELFUND’s disbursements hit N116b for students’ fees, upkeeps

    Others include irrigation pumps and agro-processing machines, among other modern farming tools designed to boost productivity and promote self-reliance among the beneficiaries.

    He urged the beneficiaries to use the items judiciously without selling them, noting that the gesture was to boost their livelihood.

    “I am inspired to offer this kind gesture by our APC leaders in Kano. Their service to humanity is a source of inspiration to me and many members of our great party.

    “Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, Murtala Sule Garo, Abba Bichi, and Mariya Bunkure are among those who inspire me for what they are doing to people of our great state.”

    The beneficiaries expressed delight and gratitude for receiving what they described as lifetime support, noting that the intervention came at the right time.

    One of them beneficiaries, Aminu Ahmad, said the free fertilizer would help revive farming activities crippled by high costs.

    According to him, the fertiliser would help him save some money that would have been used for other purposes.

    “I just received fertiliser now. The recent high cost of fertiliser has hindered our farming output. Today, we are right to say that we have been rescued, and our morale has been boosted to go back to the farm.

    “We are very grateful for this gesture shown by Engr. Umar has depicted him as the true heir of his father, Baba Ganduje,” he said.

    Meanwhile, immediately after the distribution of the items, Umar received no fewer than 500 members of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) who joined the APC.

    Receiving the defectors, he said the party would treat them as bona fide members without discrimination.

    He commended them for “your courage to see the truth to join APC as the strongest party in Africa.”

  • North-Central APC forum condemns protest against Mutfwang’s planned defection

    North-Central APC forum condemns protest against Mutfwang’s planned defection

    The North-Central All Progressives Congress Forum has condemned a protest staged by some Plateau APC members in Jos on Saturday opposing the possible defection of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to the party.

    The forum, which has been championing the governor’s move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC ahead of the 2027 elections, said the protest was undemocratic and driven by personal ambition rather than party interest.

    During an event in Jos, the APC welcomed a group of defectors, while some members protested with placards against Governor Mutfwang’s entry, exacerbating divisions within the party’s Plateau chapter.

    In a statement on Sunday by its chairman, Saleh Zazzaga, the Forum said those behind the protest were attempting to block a legitimate political choice, while insisting that no individual or group has the authority to prevent anyone, including a sitting governor, from joining a political party of their choice.

    “The North-Central APC Forum condemns the action of some Plateau APC leaders, who brought some of their supporters and other people to parade banners and placards with messages that oppose Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s coming to the APC during the reception of decampees on Saturday in Jos.

    “While restating our call on Governor Mutfwang to join the APC, we insist that it is undemocratic to stop anybody, including a serving governor, from joining a political party of their choice. It is undemocratic and unconstitutional for any party leader in Plateau State to try to stop Governor Mutfwang from joining the APC,” the Forum stated

    The Forum accused some Plateau APC leaders of fighting the governor’s defection for personal political reasons ahead of 2027, adding, “This set of Plateau APC leaders did the same thing when they organized a so-called stakeholders meeting, and they have now followed up on this undemocratic venture by mobilizing their supporters to parade placards against Governor Mutfwang.

    “They are doing this not to protect the interests of the party but simply because they want to contest the election in 2027, and for other selfish reasons. And we know for certain that none of these people have the capacity to defeat Mutfwang in an election, no matter the party he contests under,” the statement added.

    Calling for national intervention, the Forum appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the Progressive Governors Forum to intervene and ensure the governor is welcomed into the party.

    “So we are not only condemning their action, we are also calling on President Bola Tinubu, the national leader of the party, to call these people to order.

    “We are also calling on the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum to intervene in this matter by making a case for the governor in Plateau State to become part of the progressive governors,” it said.

    The Forum noted that those resisting Mutfwang’s move risk undermining the APC’s strength in the region, stressing, “Pushing for Governor Mutfwang to join the APC is in line with efforts to actualize our pledge to give six million votes to President Bola Tinubu in 2027 but we now understand that these people who don’t want the governor to come do not want us to give six million votes to Mr President”.

    According to Zazzaga, the forum would escalate the matter if the opposition within the chapter persists, “We are giving them an ultimatum to desist from their actions; otherwise, we will write directly to President Tinubu and mention their names as people who do not want the progress of the APC and Mr President in Plateau State,” he said.

    Read Also: Nigeria urged to lead Africa’s push for continental prosperity

    The Forum also urged former governor and Senator Simon Bako Lalong to intervene to quickly intervene and make room for Governor Mutfwang in the APC.

    Recall that the dispute followed an earlier October decision by Plateau APC stakeholders, who passed a motion rejecting Mutfwang’s possible defection.

    Moved by former Deputy National Secretary Festus Fuanter, the motion was unanimously endorsed, but the North-Central APC Forum said its members were excluded and dismissed many of those who backed the resolution as lacking electoral value.

    “For example, in the previous election, the governorship running mate of the APC in Plateau State lost his polling unit and ward to the PDP. He got 2,800 votes in his ward. PDP got 10,600. And now he is among the people who don’t want Mutfwang to come to the party,” the Forum noted.

    “We want to collectively join hands to win the Plateau State for Tinubu. It is not about interests at this moment. It is only when you win an election that you start talking about interest.”

    The Forum reiterated that its push for Mutfwang’s defection “is backed by some influential people in the Presidency.”

  • Eko Hotels & Suites announces 2025 tropical Christmas wonderland — “Kingdom of Lights”

    Eko Hotels & Suites announces 2025 tropical Christmas wonderland — “Kingdom of Lights”

    Eko Hotels & Suites, Nigeria’s premier hospitality destination, has announced the return of its

    much-celebrated Tropical Christmas Wonderland, themed Kingdom of Lights for the 2025 festive

    season.

    The annual extravaganza, now recognised as Africa’s largest and most entertaining family

    Christmas holiday experience, will once again transform the iconic Eko Hotels grounds into a

    spectacular wonderland of lights, music, art, and entertainment — creating an unforgettable

    festive destination for families and visitors from around the world.

    This year’s program features world-class productions that bring the spirit of Christmas to life

    through captivating performances by leading Nigerian and international talents. Guests will

    enjoy a spectacular circus show, a grand makosa street carnival procession, Broadway musical

    theaters, puppet shows, and an array of comedy and so much more guaranteed to fill the season

    with joy.

    In true Lagos fashion, the celebrations will include an Owambe Night headlined by the

    renowned Segun Johnson, promising an electrifying evening of live music, dance, and cultural

    expression that captures the energy of Nigeria’s festive traditions.

    Speaking on the announcement, Dr. Iyadunni Gbadebo, Director of Sales and Marketing for Eko

    Hotels & Suites, stated: “Our Tropical Christmas Wonderland has evolved into a signature celebration of joy, creativity,

    and family. This year’s edition, themed Kingdom of Lights, will be our most ambitious yet — an

    immersive experience that celebrates the warmth and vibrancy of the holiday season while

    showcasing the very best of Nigerian talents and hospitality.”

    Gbadebo added: “With a diverse lineup of attractions and performances —

    including a world-class theatre productions, a magical theme park for children and families,

    circus performances, and spectacular light displays, the 2025 Tropical Christmas Wonderland

    reaffirms Eko Hotels & Suites’ commitment to delivering world-class entertainment and family

    experiences in Nigeria and beyond.”

    According to Dr Gbadebo, “This year’s edition of the Tropical Christmas Wonderland is

    powered by the invaluable support of Zenith Bank and Maltina, whose partnership has helped

    bring the Kingdom of Lights experience to life. Over the last 5 years, Zenith bank and Maltina

    have looked beyond the narrow corporate goal of maximising shareholder value to bringing

    happiness and memorable experiences to hundreds of families.”

    Mrs Adaobi Nwapa, Executive Director at Zenith Bank Plc, expressed the bank’s delight at

    supporting this festive initiative, sharing that “Zenith Bank has always been passionate about

    projects that strengthen family bonds, inspire creativity, and promote unity. The Kingdom of

    Lights reflects our shared vision for a brighter, more connected Nigeria. We are proud to partner

    with Eko Hotels & Suites to create lasting memories for families during this joyous season as we

    Read Also: SWDC MD: How Nigeria can transform through business, policy collaboration

    have done with the Zenith lights over the last almost two decades. We look forward to providing

    especially diasporans with easy banking solutions for their ever changing and growing financial

    service needs.”

    On her part, Mrs. Sarah Agha, Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, also emphasized

    the brand’s long-standing commitment to family happiness and celebration. “Maltina has always

    stood for sharing happiness and togetherness. Our collaboration with Eko Hotels & Suites on

    the Kingdom of Lights reinforces our mission to bring families closer, create smiles, and spread

    joy. This event beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas — a time for love, laughter, and

    light.”

     Dr. Tunde Lawrenson, a member of the board of trustees for

    Eko Tourism Foundation (ETF) who commended Eko Hotels & Suites for its unwavering

    commitment to promoting Lagos as a global tourism and cultural destination in his statement.

    “The Kingdom of Lights is a powerful example of how the creative and hospitality sectors can

    work together to drive tourism, create jobs, and inspire cultural pride. Eko Hotels & Suites has

    shown remarkable consistency in curating experiences that position Lagos — and indeed Nigeria as a beacon of festive and cultural excellence”

  • NDDC gives aids to victims of fire disaster in Agbor

    NDDC gives aids to victims of fire disaster in Agbor

    A major relief came the way of the 2024/2025 victims of the inferno incidents in Ika South and Ika North-East Local Government Areas of Delta State, as the Chairman, Governing Board of The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Barrister Chiedu Ebie, on behalf of the Commission presented financial support and palliatives to them on Thursday.

    Read Also: NDDC launches tree-planting campaign in Ondo

    Organised by the Commission in collaboration with the UsFirst Charity Foundation, the presentation took place at the Vienna Arena Event Centre, Boji Boji Agbor.

  • Northern Youth Network mobilises for PDP national convention, backs Makinde

    Northern Youth Network mobilises for PDP national convention, backs Makinde

    The Northern Youth Network (NYN) has announced plans to mobilise hundreds of young people from the 19 Northern States to attend the forthcoming 2025 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention holding in Ibadan, Oyo state. 

    The move, according to the group, is a show of solidarity towards the need to rebuild the party ahead of the 2027 general elections as well as to pass vote of confidence in Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership. 

    The group, led by Sulaiman Yakubu from Bauchi State, described Makinde as a “symbol of competence, transparency, and modern leadership,” citing his administration’s remarkable achievements in infrastructure development, fiscal prudence, and youth empowerment in Oyo State.

    The group noted that PDP is the only party in the country which hasn’t changed name since 1999. They expressed concern that some politicians, who rode on PDP’s platform to become ministers, governors, commissioners and others in the past, are now determined to destroy the party and make Nigeria a one party state to satisfy their selfish interests.

    READ ALSO: NIIA, Korean Embassy seek deeper economic cooperation between Nigeria, Korea

    “The group said: “For democracy to thrive, there is need for strong opposition; it’s not a good thing to have a one-party system in a country as diverse as Nigeria. This is why we are drumming support for Governor Makinde and other party leaders who intend to rebuild PDP through the National Convention.

    “PDP is the only opposition party that can challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election, hence the need to rebuild the party. We stand with Governor Makinde and others in this struggle.”

    The NYN also cautioned the judiciary against giving conflicting judgements that can bring confusions and undermine the country’s democracy. 

    The Northern Youth Network operates under the political mentorship of Hon. Shina Abiola Peller, a member of the PDP and advocate for youth inclusion in governance. 

    The Network’s planned presence at the Oyo convention, Yakubu said, is both a demonstration of loyalty to Peller’s ideals and an expression of confidence in Governor Makinde’s leadership capacity at the national level.

    The group further reiterated  commitment to promoting national unity, inter-regional collaboration, and issue-based politics, noting that Nigeria’s future depends on leaders who understand both governance and the aspirations of its youthful population.