The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Gen. Useni dedicated his life to helping widows, the poor – Former Plateau varsity VC

    Gen. Useni dedicated his life to helping widows, the poor – Former Plateau varsity VC

    Former Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University, Bokkos, Prof. Danjuma Sheni, has paid tribute to the late General Jeremiah Timbut Useni, describing him as a compassionate leader who dedicated his life to supporting widows and the less privileged.

    In a tribute made available to our correspondent in Lafia, Prof. Sheni highlighted the profound impact the former FCT minister had on the TAROK nation in Plateau State, emphasizing that his contributions to the development of his people, Plateau State, and Nigeria will not be forgotten.

    He described the late General, who also served as the military administrator of the old Bendel State, as a generous and caring leader who was deeply committed to the welfare of widows, underprivileged women, and the poor.

    Prof. Sheni further noted that General Useni played a key role as the pioneer founding chairman of the Board of Trustees of the North Central People’s Forum and worked tirelessly to facilitate the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC).

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    “We hope mr president will sign the bill into law in his honour. General Useni’s contributions cannot all be listed” 

    “He was a humanitarian. He loved people and was compassionate. He took care of widows, poor women , the poor of the poor. He was a giver and identified with the TAROK Nation. 

    “He served as a vice chairman and later as chairman of TAROK elders forum. He was in the forefront of the fight to have Karl Kum University sited in TAROK land due to the history of how COCIN missionaries were accepted in Langtang before spreading to other communities in plateau. 

    “As a member of COCIN SARKIN MANGU, where he got married,  he contributed to the renovation of the church and that of COCIN Langtang. He was a major contributor to the funds to build Wase COCIN after it was destroyed by communal war. 

    “He was a developer and one who gave jobs to many people all over the nation.  He was a nationalist. He pioneered the establishment of Tim Tali  University which is still being pursued by those close to him. A man of the people.  It is difficult not to remember He lost his prayerful wife in a plane crush in Kano on her way to Lagos after she successfully hosted prayer crusade in langtang. 

    “She like her husband were committed to the uplifting  of the people.  A family that lived to serve. May Almighty God give him eternal rest and comfort his family in Jesus name” he said 

  • Group backs 50% telecom tariff hike, calls for improved services

    Group backs 50% telecom tariff hike, calls for improved services

    The Arewa Youth Assembly has backed the recently approved 50 percent hike in telecommunication tariffs by the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC).

    The group stated that it was also an opportunity for the sector’s regulator to insist on fairness, transparency, and accountability in the telecommunications sector.

    The group said the move will open up the sector for robust growth and investment.

    In a statement signed by the Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly, Mohammed Salihu Danlami, the group stated that the increase in telecommunication tariffs was long overdue and has become necessary.

    The group also called on telecommunication operators to use the proceeds of the adjusted tariff prices to immediately invest in improving services.

    According to the group, the support of most Nigerians for the tariff adjustment was on the condition that service quality would be improved.

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    It also called for calm and understanding from Nigerians, noting that they expect improved growth in the telecom sector, greater protection of customers, improved efficiency of telecom services and ultimately the sustainability of Nigeria’s telecommunication sector. 

    It said: “The telecommunication sector, which employs millions of Nigerians directly and is responsible for powering other sectors of the country, is the only sector that has maintained the status quo in terms of the price of its services despite the skyrocketing of the prices of basic requirements for its operations, such as diesel, power, and even manpower costs.

    “The industry was near the point of collapse. The global rise in inflation and rise in the cost of its operation, coupled with foreign exchange high costs plus increased network maintenance expenses, was rendering telecommunication companies ineffective in delivering services to Nigerians.

    “No serious regulator that understands the need for prices to be market reflective would have folded its arms to allow such a collapse.”

    The group explained that the tariff adjustment was a fundamental decision that had to be taken to preserve the industry and its impact on the wider economy, noting that “everything in Nigeria today depends on telecoms, whether it is healthcare, education, corporate businesses, and even the government.”

    It said tariffs needed to be increased to ensure that the industry was made stronger and that service could be improved.

    The statement added: “Furthermore, this tariff adjustment will help the operators to purchase new equipment to enhance the country’s telecommunication infrastructure. It would also re-energise the sector in a way that would lead to a surge in investments. This will ultimately translate to improved network quality, expanded access, and a better experience for consumers. We at the Arewa Youth Assembly are hopeful that the sector will grow beyond expectations, creating more opportunities for our people to get jobs in telecoms.

    “It is ironic that those complaining of tariff increase are the same ones who are complaining of poor service delivery. They are unaware that telecommunication companies cannot improve their infrastructure to meet growing demand without having cost-reflective prices. To address Quality of Service problems, they need a new injection of funds.”

  • Gov Radda reaffirms stance against negotiating with bandits

    Gov Radda reaffirms stance against negotiating with bandits

    The Katsina State Government has once again ruled out any negotiations with bandits responsible for repeated attacks and security threats in the state. 

    Governor Dikko Umar Radda made this declaration while receiving the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 8 Division and Commander of the Joint Task Force North West Operation during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Katsina. 

    “Our administration will not negotiate with criminals perpetrating evil acts in the state,” the governor stated. He emphasized that any peace deal with the bandits would only be considered under specific conditions to ensure lasting stability, adding that successful negotiations would require the full acceptance and involvement of affected communities. 

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    Governor Radda also revealed that a stakeholder engagement committee has been established to involve local communities in peace-building efforts while expressing the government’s willingness to support those who genuinely seek repentance and reintegration.

    The governor said: ”The bandits were our ”brothers, born within us, but chose to be criminals. Those who sincerely surrender and seek to rebuild their lives will find support from our administration,”

    “We are prepared to provide resources for their reintegration and livestock management, enabling them to become productive members of society”

    Governor Radda further reaffirmed Katsina State’s substantial investment in security infrastructure, surpassing many states in the federation.

    He pledged continued logistical support to address fuel supply challenges and maintain operational effectiveness while commending the exceptional leadership of the Division and Brigade Commanders, describing it as exemplary by personally leading operations and demonstrating unwavering dedication.

    The Governor also noted that the efforts of the Military combined with the collaborative operations of the Air Force, Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Civil Defence Corps, and Katsina Community Watch Corps, have yielded significant improvements in the state’s security.

    He said: ”Our farmers can now cultivate their lands and transport their produce to market,”

    “This tangible progress demonstrates the effectiveness of our joint security strategies,” 

    Earlier, Major General Ibikunle Ademola Ajose explained that he was in Katsina State as part of his first quarter operational visit to all states under the 8th Division which includes Katsina and to discuss with the State Government, the newly launched Operation Safe Northwest.

    General Ajose also recalled the Chief of Defense Staff had written to the four states within the Zone on the recent developments, particularly reports of some bandits expressing interest in negotiating peace.

    He said: “It is important to state categorically that the Nigerian Army does not engage in negotiations with criminals or bandits, we are committed to exploring holistic approaches to address this persistent and wicked challenge.”

  • Niger launches safe space initiative for adolescent girls in schools

    Niger launches safe space initiative for adolescent girls in schools

    In an effort to empower adolescent girls and address critical challenges affecting their education and well-being, the Niger state government, in collaboration with the World Bank, has launched the “Safe Space” initiative under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project.

    This initiative targets girls in 522 schools across the state and aims to provide life skills education, mentorship, and support to improve their lives and foster self-reliance.

    Speaking at the Stakeholders Workshop for the Validation of the Safe Space Life Skills Manua in Minna, The AGILE Life Skills and Safe Space Team Lead, Dr Isah Adamu said that the reason for the project is to address the unique challenges faced by girls in Niger State, where school dropout rates among girls are significantly higher than boys.

    “In Niger state, generally, we have a low level of enrollment of our girls in the school system. You will agree with me that the number of girls out of school is much more than the number of boys out of school in this part of the country.

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    ‘Even those in the school system are exposed to risks such as gender-based violence and harassment. These safe spaces will provide them with a platform for confidence building, mentorship, and essential education not offered in conventional schools. There are things of confidentiality. When a girl is exposed to any gender-based violence or any kind of harassment, it is difficult for her to open up to everybody. So, hardly will a girl go to her parents and tell them that she has been violated wrongly and forcefully.

    “Therefore, to create this kind of environment is to give them further education, to expose them to a better learning environment. And most importantly, it is going to even help their learning in the school system. It is also going to awaken their skills, it is going to build them intellectually”, he said.

    The AGILE Life Skills and Safe Space Component Lead, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed, explained that the project will initially cover 165 schools across the state’s 25 local government areas, adding that it would be expanded to 522 schools in its second phase.

    “Our focus is to teach them about climate change, reproductive health, and entrepreneurship, ensuring they acquire skills that will make them self-reliant and contribute to their communities,” she said.

    Mohammed said that the program is set to directly benefit over 159,000 girls across Niger State, equipping them with critical life skills and fostering an environment where they can thrive academically and socially.

    “As the project rolls out, stakeholders are optimistic that it will reduce school dropouts, build resilience, and empower the next generation of female leaders in the state.”

    The Representative of the Commissioner of Women Affairs, Larai Ibrahim expressed the support of the ministry, emphasizing the program’s significance in bridging gender gaps and ensuring a safer, more inclusive environment for girls and women.

    “We are grateful to the organizers and stakeholders for prioritizing the empowerment of our girls and women. This manual will help integrate traditional and modern education to enhance their development,” she said.

    AGILE, an acronym for the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, is a holistic program that combines classroom education with skills training and mentorship. The workshop also marked the validation of the Safe Space Life Skills Manual, which will serve as the curriculum for the initiative. 

  • Arewa Yoruba group begs Tinubu to pay registration fees for 2025 JAMB candidates 

    Arewa Yoruba group begs Tinubu to pay registration fees for 2025 JAMB candidates 

    The Association of Arewa Yoruba Youths (AAYY) has appealed to the federal government to pay the JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration fees for all eligible students in the country to cushion the economic challenges being faced by parents.

    The group noted that last year that about 1.8m students registered for JAMB, believing that this year would be around 2m in number that will register for the examination.

    A statement issued by the association’s national coordinator, Lawal Hussein Taiye, said that if JAMB registration costs about N7,000 per each applicant, the total amount for two million applicants will be about N14 billion in the whole country. 

    According  to Hussein, who is also the National Coordinator of Tinubu Mukeso group, “This will assist the parents and the less privileged students register for the examination in view of the present hardship many homes are going through in the country.” 

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    He noted that the alleged federal government conditional cash transfer of N75,000 to individual would not really get to the real people that needed the money but may end up in the pockets of wrong or selfish politicians.

    Hussein urged the federal government to come up with a more realistic and digital means of distributing the money so that those intended will benefit from the good intention of government to Nigerians.

    According to him, “Paying JAMB examination fees for students this year’s will go a long way to enable many homes that cannot afford to register their students the opportunity to do so.”

    The youths employ the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to come up with policies that would have direct bearings to many Nigerians that are finding it difficult to cope with present reality of life.

  • Don seeks income-generating initiatives to support displaced women

    Don seeks income-generating initiatives to support displaced women

    A lecturer in the Department of Theology, Veritas University Bwari, Abuja, Dr Richard Gokum has called for income – generating initiatives to support women displaced by conflicts in the country.

    Gokum said such initiatives should focus on vocational training and microfinance to provide displaced women with opportunities for financial independence and stability.

    He said this during a roundtable organised by Veritas University’s Centre for Peace and Development supported by Rosa Luxemburg Foundation West Africa to review three research studies: “The Impact of Farmers-Herders Crisis on the Quality of Life of Women and Girls in Internally Displaced Camps in North Central Nigeria; “Effects of Bwari conflict and Enugu sit – at – home on women,” alongside experiences and conditions of domestic workers, the role of stakeholders and the strategies of mitigating domestic work abuses in the North-west region.

    “There is an urgent need for income-generating initiatives that focus on vocational training and microfinance to provide displaced women with opportunities for financial independence and stability,” the university Don said.

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    While reviewing one of the books: “The Impact of Farmers-Herders Crisis on the Quality of Life of Women and Girls in Internally Displaced Camps in North Central Nigeria,” Dr Gokum said that women and girls in IDP camps are often exposed to gender-based violence (GBV), disrupted access to education, and limited reproductive healthcare.

    The university Don added that all of these hinder their ability to recover from displacement and reintegrate into stable social structures.

    Another lecturer in the Department of Philosophy, Veritas University Bwari Abuja, Dr Anweting Ibok noted that constant conflicts such as farmer-header crisis, Boko Haram insurgency, communal crisis and their attendant consequences had left us as a state stagnant.

    Ibok, who reviewed the book: “Effects of Bwari conflict and Enugu sit – at – home on women,” authored by Dr Ikechukwu Maxwell Ukandu and Dr Nneamaka Obodo added that the sit – at – home order posed a serious consequence to the development of South East and Nigeria at large.

    According to the university Don, it had a negative socio-political implication for the area.

    Also, Dr Chinaemelum Okafor of the Department of History and International Relations, Veritas University, who reviewed: “Effects of Bwari Conflict and Enugu Sit-at-Home on Women” described how conflicts have impacted the lives of women in various ways via socio-economic disruption, social marginalisation and Gender-Based Violence.

    “The report draws attention to how women’s social and economic roles intersect with conflict dynamics. It explores how traditional gender roles, such as caregiving and homemaking, place women at the centre of conflict’s consequences, while also examining how they mobilize resilience strategies,” Okafor said.

    The Don said women, especially those engaged in the market trading and small businesses, face immense economic losses during conflicts, as markets close and supply chains are disrupted.

    “Women’s roles as caregivers and homemakers are further strained in times of conflict, as resources like food and shelter become scarce,” the varsity Don stated.

  • Tanker explosion: ACF mourns victims, calls for public awareness on safety risks

    Tanker explosion: ACF mourns victims, calls for public awareness on safety risks

    …warns against rush for inflammable substances

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic petroleum tanker explosion that occurred on Saturday, January 18, 2025, in the Diko community of Niger State along the Abuja-Kaduna highway.

    In a statement issued by the forum’s National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF commiserated with the families of the victims and reiterated its call for increased public awareness on the dangers of rushing to collect inflammable substances from fallen tankers.

    The tanker explosion resulted in the loss of over 80 lives, numerous injuries, property destruction, and significant disruptions to daily activities and traffic on the major highway. 

    Muhammad-Baba emphasized that the incident highlights Nigeria’s inadequate disaster preparedness and the critical need for improved management strategies.

    He further lamented that the tragedy, coming just months after a similar incident in Majia, Jigawa State, underscores the public’s lack of awareness regarding the risks associated with scooping petroleum products from accident scenes.

    “It is indeed tempting to partly attribute the mad rush for the contents of the tanker, to the high  price that petroleum products command. However, the reality is that such crass looting of accidented vehicles is not a new phenomenon and signals the decline of edifying cultural values which ordinarily dictate the principle of “Safety First, Always!”. 

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    “In the rush for fast but ephemeral gains, people tend to compromise personal and community safety, let go of humanness and abdicate responsibilities for extending assistance to of any fellow humans in distress, with tragic but avoidable consequences, as gorily witnessed at Diko.

    “ACF commiserates with members of Diko Community, the Zazzau – Suleja Emirate, as well as the Government and people of Niger State over the tragedy. ACF deeply mourns, as it prays for Devine succour to all those affected and for quick recovery from the impact of the incident”. 

    ACF commended the prompt response to the incident as shown by of the Niger State Government led by Governor, Muhammad Bago, federal security and other relevant agencies as well as all other public and volunteer first responders;

    “Calls for the mobilisation humanitarian relief (food, shelter, medications, etc.) for victims such all affected would return to what normal lives and livelihoods as could be managed under the circumstances.

    “Calls for proactive measures to prevent future occurrences and to mitigate the impact. A sustained mass, multimedia and multi-pronged public enlightenment campaigns (to include   community leaders, clerics, etc.) to educate and sensitise people on   the dangers of petroleum and  other inflammable substances”.

    ACF urged regulatory and environmental bodies and the security agencies to pay more attention to enforcing laws and safety codes and less on corrupt and extortionist practices on Nigeria roads and highways.

  • Arewa group hails Tinubu’s leadership efforts in restoring peace, prosperity in North 

    Arewa group hails Tinubu’s leadership efforts in restoring peace, prosperity in North 

    A Northern group under the aegis of Arewa Concerned Citizens Forum (ACCF) has applauded the leadership efforts of President Bola Tinubu in bringing peace and prosperity to the North, and entire country.

    The group hailed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to fostering unity, enhancing security, and driving infrastructure development that is paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous country.

    In a statement by its Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Bello Usman (Kaduna), and six members, namely Blessing Ene George (Benue), Ibrahim Kolo (Niger), Adeosun Gbenga (Kwara), Longpoe Daniel (Plateau), Haruna Isa Musa ( Jigawa), Sa’adatu Gimba (Bauchi), and Amos Bwari Isa ( FCT), said “the country has witnessed a series of remarkable achievements under President Tinubu’s administration that have reinforced the foundation of our great nation.” 

    “From economic revitalization efforts to impactful social policies, his leadership has been characterized by an unwavering dedication to the betterment of all Nigerians,” the statement said.

    “The administration has made significant strides in infrastructure development, with ongoing projects aimed at improving road networks, transportation systems, and essential services. These initiatives not only enhance connectivity across regions but also stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and reduce the burden on our communities.

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    “President Tinubu’s efforts to bridge divides among various ethnic and regional groups in Nigeria demonstrate a commitment to unity in diversity. The administration’s outreach programs and stakeholder engagements reflect a genuine desire to ensure that every Nigerian feels heard, valued, and integral to our nation’s progress.

    “The focus on sustainable economic policies and reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment significantly bolster our economy. The administration has put in place measures that support small and medium enterprises, empowering citizens and creating a robust business environment.

    “The administration’s programmes aimed at promoting social welfare and citizen empowerment have gained momentum, addressing issues such as poverty alleviation, education access, and healthcare improvements. These initiatives are vital in building a more equitable society.”

    In the area of security, the group said President Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring peace through the military’s leadership was yielding the desired results, as the Armed Forces have intensified their operations against security threats, “resulting in a notable decrease in incidents of violence and insecurity.”

    This commitment, the group said, was paramount for fostering an environment conducive to growth, investment, and communal harmony. 

  • Niger tanker explosion death toll rises to 98, 69 injured – NSEMA 

    Niger tanker explosion death toll rises to 98, 69 injured – NSEMA 

    The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed that 98 people lost their lives in the tanker explosion that occurred over the weekend at Dikko Junction, Gurara Local Government Area. 

    Abdullahi Baba Arah, the Director General of NSEMA, provided an update on Monday, stating that as of 12 pm, the death toll stood at 98, while 69 others were injured in the incident.

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    He said that 20 shops were destroyed in the fire, resulting in significant damage to goods and properties valued in the millions of naira. 

    Reports from Dikko revealed that the victims included not only those who had gathered to scoop fuel from the fallen tanker but also innocent bystanders and shop owners caught in the explosion.

  • Babangida’s daughter floats foundation

    Babangida’s daughter floats foundation

    Halima Babagida, daughter of former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, has unveiled a foundation, The Halima Ibrahim Babagida Foundation to empower widows, entrepreneurs and students.

    The foundation was unveiled at El-Amin University auditorium, Minna, the capital of Niger State, to honour the late wife of the former military President, Madyam Babangida.

    She revealed that the foundation launched three groundbreaking initiatives to empower 300 widows and young entrepreneurs.

    Halima said the foundation would also fund the West Africa Examination Council and Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examinations for 4000 students and the establishment of a comprehensive bursary programme for 500 undergraduates.

    Halima said her late mother was the inspiration for the project and she decided to launch it to commemorate the 15th year of her passing.

    She said: “I remember vividly how my mother would sit with rural women, teaching them to read, showing them that knowledge was their greatest asset.

    “As we launch the Halimah Ibrahim Babangida Foundation on this 15th anniversary of her passing, we honour her legacy not just with words, but with decisive action.”

    She acknowledged the complementary role of her childhood friend, Fatima Dangote.

    She said: “While my dear friend Fatima Dangote cannot be here physically today, our shared vision remains unshaken. We chose to launch here, where our own journey began, because we believe in the power of roots, in the strength of coming full circle, and in the importance of giving back to the soil that nurtured us.

    “The Halimah Ibrahim Babangida Foundation stands as a testament to what becomes possible when vision meets action. Our mission – ‘Better Education, Better Youth, Better Nation’ – is more than a slogan. It is our blueprint for national transformation, one young mind at a time.

    “Today, we don’t just launch a foundation; we ignite a movement. Join us in this mission. Whether you’re an educator, entrepreneur, or community leader – there’s a role for you in this transformation.

    “Let history record that on this day, in this place where dreams once took root, we planted a forest of opportunity for thousands to follow.”

    Mohammed Babangida, who is the Pro – Chancellor of El-Amin University while giving a goodwill message, said the event represented the essence of their late mother who loved education and helping the poor.

    Mohammed called the Halima “the baby of the house” when their mother died 15 years ago, but said she is now the one carrying on Maryam Babangida’s legacy through the HIB Foundation.

    The First Lady of Niger Sate, Hajiya Fatima Bago, commended Halima for the initiatives.

    Mrs Bago said the event reminded her about the “enduring legacy of one of Niger State’s finest daughters. Dr. (Mrs.) Maryam Babangida was not just a mother to her children, she was a mother to the entire nation, a visionary who worked tirelessly to uplift rural women and families.”

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    She said it was befitting that it is her daughter who is now “continuing her mother’s journey of compassion and empowerment,” adding that she had “chosen education as her platform, ensuring that young boys and girls, especially those with limited opportunities, can dream big and achieve even more.”

    The First Lady stated further that the foundation’s scholarship programme complements the initiatives of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s administration aimed at providing quality education and reducing barriers, particularly for the most vulnerable in the state.

    Cash and other empowerment items were handed to widows.

    Some school principals were also handed lists and payment receipts for WAEC and JAMB for select students numbering up to 4000.

    Some talented undergraduates also got scholarships