The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Northern group hits Emir Sanusi over criticism of FG’s economic policies

    Northern group hits Emir Sanusi over criticism of FG’s economic policies

    The Northern Patriotic Coalition for Democracy (NPCD) has condemned Kano Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, for his criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies, describing his statements as careless and misinformed.

    The group said Sanusi lacks the moral justification to advise the government, accusing him of exacerbating the country’s economic problems.

    Speaking at a briefing on Friday in Abuja, its convener, Mohammed Yahaya, described Sanusi’s comments as “unhelpful” and “indicative of a lack of genuine interest in the advancement of Nigeria.

    The NPCD expressed support for President Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of exchange rates.

    The group noted that these reforms have received widespread support from global economic experts and institutions like the World Bank and IMF.

    “Firstly, let us recognise that President Tinubu has taken bold steps to correct decades of economic mismanagement. The removal of the fuel subsidy, while initially challenging, was a necessary move to free up resources for critical infrastructure and social investments which has further helped mitigate its impact on the vulnerable populations

    Read Also: Arthur Eze: Igbo leaders will beg Tinubu to forgive, release Nnamdi Kanu

    “The unification of the exchange rate has also been widely praised by global financial institutions, including the World Bank and IMF, as a step toward long-term economic stability. 

    “Secondly, it is worth noting that these reforms have received widespread support from global economic experts. The World Bank has projected positive growth for Nigeria’s economy in the coming years, affirming that we are on a path to recovery.

    “Evidently, the Tinubu administration is steering Nigeria in the right direction, despite the temporary pains of adjustment. It is no news that President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated its openness to dialogue with stakeholders with meaningful contributions across various sectors.

    “This government has prioritised transparency and inclusivity, ensuring that the voices of ordinary Nigerians are heard in shaping policies that directly affect their lives.  Additionally, efforts are underway to communicate these policies effectively in local languages, ensuring that all Nigerians understand the benefits of these reforms.  

    “Rather than acknowledging these efforts or contributing positive ideas to enhance their effectiveness, Sanusi opted for a cynical and self-serving narrative. In contrast, what has Sanusi offered? Criticisms that are devoid of actionable solutions and reflect a parrot-like analysis of Nigeria’s economic situation.

    “He speaks of problems but offers no roadmap for resolution. This pattern of empty rhetoric is unhelpful and unbecoming of someone who claims to be a patriot. We believe that such inconsistency raises serious questions about the integrity of his arguments.

    “Does Sanusi have a personal grudge against the policies, or is his criticism motivated by anything else? His recent comments give a clear picture of being more about settling personal scores and furthering partisan goals than they are about the actual content of economic reforms.”

    Yahaya urged Sanusi to abandon his “cynical criticisms” and engage constructively with the government to address Nigeria’s challenges.

    Yahaya also called on Nigerians to reject “divisive counterproductive rhetoric” and support President Tinubu’s leadership, which they believe is taking bold steps to correct decades of economic mismanagement.

  • Tax Reform: AYCF demands accountability from northern governors

    Tax Reform: AYCF demands accountability from northern governors

    …says benefits of tax reforms outweigh its perceived challenges 

    The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has strongly condemned the recent reversal by Northern Governors on the national tax reform bills, accusing them of misleading the public and ultimately capitulating to the proposed reforms after initially opposing them.

    In a statement issued on Friday, January 17, by the group’s President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF described the governors’ actions as a betrayal of the trust placed in them by their constituents. 

    “We view the governors’ actions as a betrayal of the trust placed in them, a demonstration of their incompetence in managing their states’ affairs, and ultimately, a disservice to the Northern people,” the statement read.

    The Northern Governors had originally presented a united front against the national tax reforms, citing concerns over the negative impact on the region’s already struggling economy. 

    Read Also: Arthur Eze: Igbo leaders will beg Tinubu to forgive, release Nnamdi Kanu

    However, the AYCF argues that their stance was flawed, lacking substance and failing to acknowledge the critical role of robust taxation in funding essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

    Shettima said that rather than engage constructively with the government to address their concerns and seek amendments, the governors resorted to divisive rhetoric, fueling public unrest and hindering national progress. 

    “This approach reveals a lack of foresight and strategic planning, highlighting their failure to effectively represent the interests of their constituents,” the statement continued. 

    The questioned the motives behind their initial opposition, as no apparent amendments or concessions had been made to justify their sudden change in position.

    The AYCF, while acknowledging the need for a sensitive approach to minimize hardship, particularly for vulnerable populations, reiterated that the long-term benefits of the tax reforms far outweigh the potential short-term challenges.

    “Effective taxation is the cornerstone of a functioning and prosperous nation,” Shettima noted. 

    “Increased tax revenue will allow the government to invest heavily in critical sectors, creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all Nigerians, including those in the North.”

    The statement read: “The Governors’ initial opposition, therefore, not only hampered national progress but also demonstrated a disregard for the long-term welfare of the very people they are elected to serve. Their actions appear driven by short-sighted political considerations rather than a genuine commitment to the development of the north.

    “The Northern Governors’ opposition to the tax reforms cannot be divorced from their wider failures in managing their respective states. Many Northern states grapple with persistent poverty, underdevelopment, and a lack of basic amenities. 

    “This chronic underperformance stems from several factors, including poor governance, corruption, and a lack of effective resource allocation.  Instead of focusing on these critical issues and finding innovative ways to improve the lives of their citizens, the governors chose to deflect attention by focusing on the tax reform debate. 

    “This suggests a deliberate attempt to shift blame for their own failures onto the federal government. 

    “The AYCF contends that their initial opposition was a distraction tactic, an attempt to mask their incompetence and avoid accountability for their shortcomings. The hasty reversal of their position further strengthens this argument.

    “The Northern Governors’ actions constitute a clear betrayal of the trust placed in them by the Northern people.  

    “By initially opposing the tax reforms and then conceding, they have demonstrated a fundamental lack of respect for the electorate.  

    “They engaged in misleading rhetoric, playing on public anxieties to garner support for their position, only to abandon it without explanation. This manipulation undermines the democratic process and erodes public confidence in leadership. 

    “The AYCF calls upon the Northern Governors to provide a clear and transparent explanation for their change of heart.  

    “The people deserve to know the reasons behind this abrupt shift and whether any concessions were made that would compromise the effectiveness of the tax reforms.”

    The AYCF reaffirmed its strong support for the national tax reform bills, emphasizing their importance for Nigeria’s economic growth and development. 

    The group condemned the Northern Governors for their inconsistent and ultimately deceptive actions, which it believes undermine public trust.

    According to the AYCF, the governors’ failure to effectively manage their states and their manipulation of public opinion reflect a broader issue of poor governance in the region. 

    The group called for greater accountability from the governors, urging them to prioritize their core responsibilities: improving the lives of their constituents through good governance and efficient resource management.

    It said the sudden acceptance of the tax reforms, without meaningful engagement or a clear explanation, has been described as a disservice to the North and a betrayal of the public’s trust.

    Shettima noted that the AYCF remains committed to advocating for policies that promote sustainable development and economic progress for all Nigerians, pledging to continue holding leaders accountable for their actions.

  • Forum gets 37 members, pledges to pursue youth development

    Forum gets 37 members, pledges to pursue youth development

    The National Youth Stakeholders Forum (NYSF) has constituted a 37-man executive members to pilot its affairs.

    The forum said the 37 members, who were drawn from across the nation, have been carefully selected “based on their competence, dedication, and commitment to advancing the cause of Nigerian youth and betterment of our dear nation.”

    Amb. Auwal Musa Muhammad will serve as the National Chairman, while Amb. Dr. Duke Alamboye would serve as the Vice Chairman, and Aare Oladotun Hassan as Secretary General.

    A statement by the Publicity Secretary of the forum, Rikki Nwajiofor said the 37 member National Executive Council will be inaugurated on January 29.

    “This historic event will mark the beginning of a new chapter for youth leadership, engagement, and development in Nigeria, as the NYSF takes centre stage in shaping the nation’s future,” the statement said.

    It added: “The NYSF calls on all Nigerian youth, youth organisations, and stakeholders to embrace this transformative initiative, recognising its potential to foster national unity, drive sustainable development, and enhance the democratic process.

    “The forum remains committed to promoting the welfare, aspirations, and contributions of Nigerian youth for the advancement of the nation.

    “As the National Executive Council Members assume their roles and as the National Secretariat is unveiled, the NYSF is poised to lead a movement that amplifies the voices of Nigerian youth and ensures their active participation in the socio-economic and political affairs of our dear nation.”

    Ends****

  • ‘Katsina experiencing steady automated water supply’

    ‘Katsina experiencing steady automated water supply’

    Katsina State is experiencing steady automated water supply, becoming a leading frontrunner in implementing the World Bank-supported Nigeria Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (NG-SURWASH) programme across seven States in the country.

    The Managing Director, Katsina State Water Board, Engineer Tukur Tingling, told The Nation regular water supply, daily rationing and notifications have become frequent exchanges between the board and residents

    Read Also: Governors back Tax Reform Bills, seek adjustment to VAT

    On the maintenance and repairs of broken down water facilities and equipment, he blamed the rate of breakdown of facilities to ongoing road construction works  and the increasing population of residents in the state

    He said: ’’Most road contractors hardly notify or contact the water board or carry the board along before their commencement of their projects, so that we can indicate placement and existing positions of water facilities to avoid damages and breakdowns to them’.’

    The Engineer explained the recent assignment by Governor Dikko Umar Radda on the NG-SURWASH programme, targeting 5 LGA urban areas, with the primary target of ensuring water supply in 5 out of 10 mandate areas, has spurred him on in the execution of his water mandate.

    Katsina’s leadership in the NG-SURWASH programme is further underscored by its unique achievement as the only state among the seven participants to report progress under the Disbursement-Linked Indicator (DLI III), which measures the number of people provided with basic drinking water services.

  • Foundation calls on U.S. to lift sanctions against Cuba, Russia, Iran, others

    Foundation calls on U.S. to lift sanctions against Cuba, Russia, Iran, others

    The Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has called on the United States government to cancel all unilateral sanctions and embargoes on countries including Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.

    PeacePro notes that U.S sanctions and embargo to sovereign nations contribute to global instability and human suffering, adding that such unilateral conduct by the United States portrays the US as a global bully rather than a global police.

    In a statement by PeacePro’s Executive Director, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the group denounced the use of sanctions as a form of collective punishment that disproportionately affects innocent civilians without delivering meaningful diplomatic outcomes.

    “Sanctions are not instruments of peace. They violate international norms and impose devastating hardships on ordinary people, depriving them of food, medicine, and other essentials,” Hamzat said.

    Hamzat cited Cuba’s decades-long economic embargo, which has stifled growth and restricted access to medical technologies, as a clear example of the humanitarian cost of U.S. sanctions.

    Similarly, he pointed to Iran, where sanctions have deepened public health crises and hindered life-saving medical supplies.

    According to PeacePro, such policies not only exacerbate human suffering but also destabilize global markets and fuel geopolitical tensions.

    “These sanctions do more harm than good,” Hamzat continued. “They isolate entire populations and entrench authoritarian regimes rather than promoting democratic reforms,” he added.

    PeacePro outlined an alternative foreign policy framework emphasizing dialogue, multilateral diplomacy, and respect for national sovereignty.

    Hamzat urged the incoming administration of Donald Trump to lift all unilateral sanctions and work through international institutions such as the United Nations to resolve global disputes.

    The statement added: “Ending unilateral sanctions would restore U.S. credibility, align its actions with democratic values, and set a precedent for a more just and peaceful international order.

    “Sanctions should never be used as weapons of mass deprivation. They contradict the principles of proportionality and morality enshrined in international law.

    “The Trump administration must seize this moment to lead with integrity, respect, and a renewed commitment to peace through justice.”

  • Taraba makes progress with climate action policy endorsement

    Taraba makes progress with climate action policy endorsement

    The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) has commended the Taraba State Government for making a significant stride toward effective climate action and sustainable development with the validation of its climate policy and action plan.

    In a statement signed by the group’s Communications Officer, Ugochukwu Uzuegbu, yesterday, he praised the stakeholders’ validation workshop held in Jalingo on Tuesday, describing it as a landmark achievement in the state’s climate governance efforts.

    “This validation workshop marked significant progress by the state towards improving its climate governance structure and attracting climate finance to implement viable clean projects,”

    He explained that the climate change policy and action plan, developed in partnership with SPP, employed both quantitative and qualitative assessment methods to address key sectors comprehensively.

    He also said the workshop brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, businesses, civil society organizations, academics, and international partners.

    Taraba State Director for Climate Change, Ahmed Lazarus commended the group technical team for their diligent work in drafting the policy document. Similarly, the state Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Ms. Aishat Barde emphasised the importance of stakeholder contributions and the urgency of addressing climate change.

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    “This document is not just the document of the state Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, but rather a document of the government of Taraba State,” Barde stated. “It clearly indicates the different sectors where actions need to be implemented toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving sustainable growth. This is both a call for awareness and climate action in Taraba State.”

    The groups President, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke expressed his delight over Taraba’s efforts, noting that the policy would enable the state to tackle local climate challenges while aligning with national and international objectives.

    “This document will allow the state to coordinate its climate action in ways that address local needs and contribute to global climate goals.” Okereke said.

  • Al-Mustapha, Natasha, others blame north’s woes on region’s leaders

    Al-Mustapha, Natasha, others blame north’s woes on region’s leaders

    …Sardauna will shed tears if he wakes up to see underdeveloped north – Al-Mustapha

    Stakeholders, policymakers, and religious leaders gathered at Arewa House in Kaduna to reflect on the life and legacy of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the first Premier of the northern region.

    The event also served as a platform to critique Northern leaders for their role in the region’s stagnation. 

    Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer to the late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha, described Sardauna as a visionary leader committed to the Northern Region’s infrastructural and economic development.

    He lamented that successive leaders have abandoned Sardauna’s legacies, leaving the region in a state of decline.

    “If Sardauna were alive today to see the North, he would shed tears,” Al-Mustapha said. 

    He urged the organisers of the event, titled “Remembering Sardauna,” to invite prominent figures like General Yakubu Gowon and General TY Danjuma to next year’s commemoration, which will mark the 60th anniversary of Sardauna’s death. 

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    Labour Party chieftain Dr. Yunusa Tanko called on Nigerians to reflect, learn from past mistakes, and prepare for the future, especially ahead of the 2027 elections. 

    Senator Natasha Akpoti, representing Kogi Central, highlighted Sardauna’s contributions to regional prosperity, noting that his initiatives brought investments and set the North on a path of economic growth. She lamented that the region has experienced a steady decline since his death. 

    In his welcome address, Malam Balarabe Rufai, National President of the Rebuild AREWA Initiative for Development (RAI4D), emphasized the group’s mission to foster peace, unity, and sustainable development across the region through collaborative efforts. 

    The event underscored the importance of revisiting Sardauna’s vision to inspire positive change and development in Northern Nigeria.

    “It also articulated broad and specific objectives to successfully execute its mandate based on need-based thematic areas and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as well as outcomes.

    “The Remembrance Day Commemoration in memory of the Late Sir Ahmadu Bello, KBE, the one and only Premier of Northern Nigeria, and Sardauna of Sokoto serves as an emotional annual reflection on his life and legacy.

    “His visionary leadership, tragically cut short, continues to resonate, prompting both celebration of his achievements and a critical examination of the present state of the North. Northernization policy, a stark reality remains: his ambitious plan for a prosperous and equitable Northern Nigeria remain largely unrealized,” he said.

    “Sir Ahmadu Bello’s impact was multifaceted.  He understood that true progress required a holistic approach.  His establishment of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, exemplifies his belief in human capital development,” he said.

    In a communique at the end of the occasion, tagged “Seminar on Adopting the Legacies of Sir Ahmadu Bello for Sustainable Peace, unity and Development of Northern Nigeria stated that “we, the representatives of stakeholders across Northern Nigeria, comprising traditional leaders, policymakers, academicians, youth leaders, religious leaders, and civil society organizations, convened to deliberate on the enduring legacies of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.”

    The communique signed by Malam Balarabe Rufai and   Mr. Abel Abaji, National President and Chairman of LOC respectively, acknowledged late Sardauna’s vision, leadership, and contributions to the development, unity, and peace of Northern Nigeria and recognised the relevance of his principles in addressing contemporary challenges in the region.

    “Having critically examined the region’s current challenges, we hereby resolve to make the following fundamental observations and adopt as well as adapt the legacies of Sir Ahmadu Bello as guiding principles for sustainable peace, unity, and development in Northern Nigeria.”

    “Arewa, Northern Nigeria faces several fundamental challenges that have impeded its development and stability.

    “These challenges are deeply rooted in historical, socio-economic, political, and cultural contexts. Below is an overview of the key challenges: Education Deficit Low Literacy Rates: Northern Nigeria has some of the lowest literacy rates in the country, with a significant gender gap in education.”

    “Almajiri System: The traditional Islamic education system, while culturally significant, often lacks integration with modern education, leaving many children without basic literacy and numeracy skills.

    “Inadequate Infrastructure: Schools in the region often suffer from poor facilities, overcrowding, and a lack of qualified teachers.

    Terrorism and Insurgency: “The activities of groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP have devastated communities, disrupted education, and caused significant displacement of people.

    “Banditry and Kidnapping: Armed bandits and kidnappers have escalated violence in rural areas, targeting civilians, schools, and travellers. Ethno-Religious Conflicts: Longstanding tensions between different ethnic and religious groups have led to periodic outbreaks of violence.”

    “Economic Underdevelopment High Unemployment Rates: Youth unemployment is rampant, contributing to poverty, crime, and vulnerability to recruitment by insurgent groups.

    “Dependence on Agriculture: While agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, it remains largely subsistence-based, with limited mechanization and access to markets. Infrastructure Deficits: Poor road networks, limited electricity supply, and inadequate water systems hinder economic growth,” they noted among others.

  • Radda tackling poverty, infrastructural deficiency, says Katsina female activist

    Radda tackling poverty, infrastructural deficiency, says Katsina female activist

    Katsina-based female Activist, Hajia Zainab Sada, has declared Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s administration is doing well on poverty eradication and infrastructural development.

    Sada, who is also founder of the Neighborhood Committee Network (NCN), a community-driven initiative that fosters collaborative governance, social cohesion and sustainability, told The Nation the present administration’s efforts towards alleviating the hardship through numerous actionable programmes, and infrastructural developments, have impressed citizens. 

    She also noted the administration’s recent distribution of farm equipment to assist farmers for food production across the state, declaring willingness to collaborate with groups, associations and corporate organisations to eradicate poverty and illiteracy in the state.

    She said : ’’In any case, the performance of His Excellency Mal. Dikko Umar Radda to be candid with you has been superfluous. So far, he has done extremely very well unlike past administrations in the state. Simply put, he has invested in the most critical sectors of the state, which if you are to prioritize and put them on scale of preference, we find that they are commendable.

    ‘’ if you take history back to North Central, up to Kaduna state, up to the point when Kaduna state was inaugurated on 23rd of September, 1987, to date, he is one of the most luckiest governor that at the end of his administration that has constructed 150 secondary schools. It is unprecedented. 

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    ‘’He has also embarked on the construction of about 361 comprehensive health centers. And these comprehensive health centers, as you know, of course, traverse virtually the 361 electoral votes of Katsina state. Other than, of course, the upgrade of so many comprehensive health centers to full-fledged general hospitals.

    ‘’And of course, the third most important area is infrastructure, infrastructure and development. You know that even this week, he has started commissioning the urban renewal projects with the commission of Kofar Soro to Kofar Guga Dual Carriage, amongst others “

  • Allocate forfeited 753 duplexes, apartments to military, Dansuki appeals

    Allocate forfeited 753 duplexes, apartments to military, Dansuki appeals

    Lawmaker representing Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency of Sokoto State, Rep Abdussamad Dasuki, has called for the allocation of a massive Abuja estate forfeited because it was tied to corruption to the military to address the housing needs of its personnel. 

    On December 2, 2024, Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the final forfeiture of an expansive estate spanning 150,500 square meters and comprising 753 duplexes and other apartments, located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.

    The forfeiture of the estate is the largest single asset the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has recovered since it was set up in 2003.

    In a statement on Wednesday to mark Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Dasuki, who is also the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Shipping Services, said the National Assembly must urgently work with the Executive in ensuring that these forfeited massive estate was allocated to the military to address the housing needs of military personnel.

    “Doing so is a moral obligation we owe our heroes in active service”, he said, noting that, “At this time that the 2025 budget is undergoing legislative input is an auspicious time to do so, even if it requires invoking the Doctrine of Necessity.”  

    He said an amended Appropriation Bill for funding of the completion of the housing units to make them habitable for military personnel could be sent by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly.

    While noting that the forfeiture is indeed a milestone in the fight against the hydra-headed problem of corruption, Dasuki said another milestone can be recorded in the use this forfeited estate is put to by the Federal Government.

    Dasuki said a major area where the wellbeing of military personnel and their families can be enhanced was in the area of housing. “We must ensure that those who keep us safe and their families have a decent place to lay their heads every night,” he said.

    According to him, adequate and decent housing is a critical need of the military, and lack of it often leads to stress, low morale, and physical and emotional strain that could undermine the capacity of the military to carry out its duties effectively.

    “We must be eternally grateful to those men and women who laid down their lives to keep us safe, secure and united as an indivisible nation. We must continually honour their ultimate sacrifice not only by paying glowing tributes to their memories, but also by ensuring that the noble cause they died for is not in vain.

    “As the nation honours its fallen heroes, we must not fail to cater for the welfare of those in active service. Those who have taken up the noble task to keep our nation safe and secure, and to defend our territorial integrity. While it is of great importance to provide them with the armaments to do so, we must also prioritize their welfare and those of their families.

    “By prioritising the welfare of the Armed Forces and their families, national security will be strengthened, operational readiness and effectiveness of the military will be enhanced, and our commitment to the well-being of those who keep us safe will be indubitable.

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    “We will also be showing clearly to these gallant men and women that bear arms in our defence that we are indeed grateful for their service to the nation,” the lawmaker said.

    He said addressing the housing needs of the military requires a concerted effort from the National Assembly and the Executive through strategic policy formulation, budgetary allocation and legislative reforms. 

    “But these is an urgent issue, and there is a low hanging fruit that can be plucked to address, significantly, a chunk of this housing needs of our military, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory”, he said.

    Dasuki called on the National Assembly to urgently work with the Executive in ensuring that this forfeited massive estate is allocated to the military to address the housing needs of military personnel. 

    “Doing so is a moral obligation we owe our heroes in active service… We must not allow this opportunity to slip by. It is the right thing to do for those who keep us safe,” he said.

  • Army Remembrance Day: Kaduna govt honours fallen heroes, visits wounded soldiers

    Army Remembrance Day: Kaduna govt honours fallen heroes, visits wounded soldiers

    As Nigeria observed Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Kaduna State government took steps to honour both the fallen heroes and the brave soldiers who have been injured in the fight against insurgency. 

    Following the annual remembrance ceremony at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in the state capital, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Liman Dahiru, accompanied by other dignitaries, visited soldiers recovering at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital. 

    The visit, which aimed to boost the morale of the soldiers, was a show of solidarity for the injured servicemen who have given so much in defence of the country.

    Representing Governor Uba Sani, the Speaker paid tribute to the fallen heroes, stating, “Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and we will continue to honour their memory.” 

    The ceremony, which was attended by top government officials, military personnel, heads of security agencies, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders, showcased a united front in honouring the nation’s soldiers and supporting their ongoing efforts for peace and security. 

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    Governor Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military in its efforts to maintain peace and security across Kaduna State. He also commended the military for their continued bravery and sacrifice in addressing insecurity in the state and the broader country. 

    In his speech, Governor Sani highlighted the importance of collective security efforts, pledging continued support for the military and all security agencies to ensure a peaceful and secure Kaduna State.

    He said: “We are here to remember our fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the peace and security of the nation. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and we will continue to honour their memory.

    “We commend the military for their efforts in tackling insecurity in Kaduna and Nigeria. Their bravery and sacrifice are appreciated, and we will continue to support them.

    “We will continue to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to ensure peace and security in Kaduna State.

    “We believe that security is a collective effort, and we will continue to work together to achieve our goal of a peaceful and secure state.”

    Additionally, he promised to prioritize the welfare of widows and orphans of fallen heroes, ensuring that they are empowered and lifted out of poverty.