The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Army distributes cash gifts, palliatives to 16 widows in Katsina cantonment

    Army distributes cash gifts, palliatives to 16 widows in Katsina cantonment

    The Commander of the 17th Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola, distributed cash gifts and palliatives to 16 widows yesterday during a durbar held at the 17th Brigade Joint Officers’ Mess, Natsinta Cantonment in Katsina.

    According to a statement from the Army Public Relations Officer in Katsina, the gesture was intended to offer much-needed support to the families of fallen soldiers as they face life’s challenges.

    In his address, Brigadier General Omopariola highlighted the importance of the initiative, stressing the need to ensure that the sacrifices of the fallen heroes are not forgotten.

    Read Also: Army General detained over alleged palliative rice diversion, others

    He said: “There is nothing that can compensate for the loss of your loved ones, who sacrificed their lives for this great nation and humanity.

    ‘’This occasion also underscores the duty to honor the memory of those who served as it is crucial to ensure that the families of fallen heroes are not forgotten. They have borne the heaviest burden, and we must stand with them in their time of need.”

    The Commander also promised to resolve all issues raised by the widows and also encouraged them to remain resilient, asserting that they possess the strength to overcome adversity and build meaningful lives.

  • General detained over alleged palliative diversion, others

    General detained over alleged palliative diversion, others

    An Army General has been detained over alleged diversion of palliative rice meant for soldiers and the sale of military equipment to scrap yards.

    The suspect, Brig.-Gen. M. A. Sadiq, who was the Commander 3 Brigade, Kano, was said to have been invited to Abuja by the military police where he is being detained.

    Military activist and whistleblower, @MiliAct posted the information on X, alleging that Sadiq sold off generator sets and operational vehicles to scrap yards.

    He wrote: “The commander of 3 Brigade Kano, Brigadier General M. A. Sadiq, has been detained in a military police guardroom in Abuja over alleged diversion of rice palliatives, selling of military equipment, including generator sets and operational vehicles, to scrap yards.

    Read Also; 13 repentant terrorists escape with govt rifles in Borno

    “At the end he will be retired voluntarily without any punishment.”

    The Nation gathered that the rice, which was from the Federal Government’s palliatives to cushion the effect of the hardship, was for distribution to soldiers.

    The brigade, like others across the country, received the rice, said to be in 25kg bags but the commander refused to distribute them to his soldiers.

    It was also gathered that the embattled general allegedly stole many official equipment belonging to the military, including a MIKANO heavy-duty generator, at Military Training Camp, Falgore, Kano and sold them to metal scrap dealers.

    A new Commander has been posted to head the Brigade while Sadiq, sources said, would face a special probe panel.

    Sadiq is not the first General to have been allegedly involved in criminal diversion and sale of rice.

    Some months ago, there were grumblings in the Western Command of the Nigerian Navy over allegations that a Rear Admiral diverted trailers of seized smuggled rice.

    The officer, it was gathered, was eventually redeployed after the alleged scandal.

    It was gathered that the senior officer mandated operational units and bases under his command to ensure that every bag of rice seized was moved to Apapa where he eventually sold them in trailers to those trading in the staple.

    Spokesman for the Army, Maj.-Gen. Nwachukwu Onyema, said Sadiq was undergoing military investigation into administrative discrepancies while he was Commander 3 Brigade.

    He confirmed that the senior officer had been relieved of his command to ensure a thorough investigation.

    “The Nigerian Army being a self-regulatory institution founded on the bedrock of discipline, justice, and accountability, has zero tolerance for indiscipline  and will therefore not condone any form of misconduct or actions and inactions that could undermine the threshold of its values and principles.

    “The Nigerian Army assures both our internal and external publics that this matter will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate administrative action will be taken. Our commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency remains unwavering.

    “We guarantee that the process will be fair, impartial, and in line with our established procedures,” he added.

  • 13 repentant terrorists escape with rifles in Borno

    13 repentant terrorists escape with rifles in Borno

    Thirteen repentant Boko Haram fighters have escaped with rifles and motorcycles given to them by the Borno State government, which co-opted them to join military operatives in the fight against the insurgents.

    They are among thousands of former Boko Haram fighters and their families who had surrendered to the government.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Oyo, Osun, 24 others with zero foreign investments in one year

    The former fighters, who were attached to military operatives in Mafa, escaped from their camp between September 1 and 2, reports Premium Times.

    Last year, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, said more than 160,000 Boko Haram members and their families had surrendered to the military amid a sustained military onslaught.

    The former terrorists and their families are being managed under the Borno Model, a post-conflict amnesty programme with a focus on deradicalisation, rehabilitation, reintegration and resettlement of low-risk persons previously associated with armed groups.

  • Firm honours Indomie award winners

    Firm honours Indomie award winners

    Dufil Prima Foods Ltd is set to honour young heroes of Nigeria in a grand ceremony to be broadcast live across multiple TV networks on October 13.

    The much-anticipated Indomie Heroes Award is a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of the brand to recognize, celebrate, and reward children who have displayed exceptional acts of bravery, strength, innovation and heroism.

    This year’s edition, the 16th in the series, is themed:  “Unsung Heroes”, and brings to the spotlight stories of children aged 15 and below, who have, through remarkable courage and selflessness, made significant contributions to their communities and would be celebrated and broadcast live on TV for the first time.

    Speaking on the initiative, the Group Corporate Communications and Events Manager at Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, Temitope Asiwaju stated that the awards to be given out are in three categories, namely: Social Bravery, Intellectual Bravery and Physical Bravery.

    Read Also: Indomie Fan Club fetes kids nationwide

    “The Social Bravery Award honours youth tackling critical issues like child marriage, illiteracy, and environmental concerns. The Intellectual Bravery Award recognizes innovative problem-solving with limited resources, while the Physical Bravery Award celebrates children who risk personal safety to save lives or prevent harm in their communities. The nationwide broadcast will showcase inspiring stories of courageous children in these categories, allowing the whole country to share in their powerful narratives” he said.

    Dufil Prima Foods, through the Indomie Heroes Award, continues its mission of honouring the extraordinary achievements of young children whose heroic actions often go unrecognized.

    This initiative reflects the brand’s commitment to promoting timeless values such as courage, resilience, innovation and selflessness, ensuring these children’s efforts are celebrated across the nation.

    Nigerians can watch the live broadcast on 13th October 2024, and witness these heartwarming stories unfold on NTA, Channels, Africa Magic Urban, AIT, and TVC.

  • Mining pollution in Nasarawa a time bomb, experts warn

    Mining pollution in Nasarawa a time bomb, experts warn

    Experts have petitioned the Nasarawa Assembly over mining pollution in Awe and Karu local government Areas, describing it as a ticking time bomb and an avenue for the exploitation of young girls by licensed and illegal miners. 

    They said the situation will give rise to environmental pollution and insecurity occasioned by the influx of foreigners in the communities, urging Nasarawa State Government. to investigate and take urgent action.

    The Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI) and its partners – the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN) and the Citizens Free Service Forum (CFSF) made these known at a media interaction on the state of mining communities in Nasarawa State in Ikeja, Lagos. 

    RDI’s Executive Director, Philip Jakpor, mining in Nasarawa communities like Abuni and Awe was particularly disturbing as the locals blamed the environmental degradation in the community on Multiverse Mining Company, supposedly Chinese owned.

    Jakpor said the alarm on the state of the environment follows a similar report on Uke district in April 2024 where the locals said the discovery of lithium and gold in their environment had led to despoliation of the environment and strange faces that are making the locals uncomfortable.

    Read Also: Ebonyi community accuses mining firm of pollution

    EDEN Executive Director Barrister Chima Williams said that the findings and the amateur videos show that violations of the environment are going on unchecked and the local people are totally helpless because they want to be law abiding.

    Williams noted the situation in Uke and Abuni reinforces the call by EDEN for the establishment of Mining Monitors comprising of mining host community representatives, Ministry of Mining representatives, Civil Defence representatives, among others to monitor the mining sites and routes, arrest any illegal miner and hands over to the Police for further investigation and prosecution.

    Executive Director of CFSF, Comrade Sani Baba, extolled the patience of the community people in Awe and Karu LGA, notIng the findings in the mining communities were disheartening and confirms the organisation’s long-held belief in the quest for extraction of solid minerals. 

    The petition asked the Assembly to compel Multiverse mining company to take full responsibility for the clean-up and other remediation efforts on the environment in Uke district and Abuni community.

  • Bauchi: Senator Buba flags off road construction in Zaranda town

    Bauchi: Senator Buba flags off road construction in Zaranda town

    Senator Shehu Buba Umar has flagged off the construction of a two-and-a-half-kilometer road in Zaranda Town in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

    The project, which is among the promises the lawmaker made to the people of Bauchi South during his inauguration in June 2023, reflects a commitment to service.

    Speaking on the intervention, Senator Buba emphasized the importance of infrastructure development as it contributes to citizens’ well-being and economic development.

    Read Also: States can’t interfere in mining operations, Alake cautions sub-nationals

    The Chairman of Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence said the flag off was the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at improving the overall quality of life in the district.

    “This road construction is a manifestation of my dedication to pursuing projects that enhance the welfare as well as empowerment of our people.

    “This is only the tip of the iceberg in our catalogue of programmes intended for Bauchi South. I am committed to rolling out similar initiatives throughout my term.

    “I urge all stakeholders to work with us so that we can collectively foster the growth and development of our great district. May Allah help us,” Senator Buba added.

    The legislator, however, appealed to residents to exercise patience as the ongoing projects progress, assuring of continued quality representation at the National Assembly.

  • Ladi Jatto bags strategic leadership award 

    Ladi Jatto bags strategic leadership award 

    The Center for Ethical Conduct Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) on October 3, 2024, at Merit House in Abuja, honored Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto with dual awards: a certificate for ethical leadership and excellence, and a plaque recognizing her outstanding achievements in ethical governance and strategic leadership.

    Jatto, who holds the title of Officer of the Order of Niger (OON), currently serves as the Kogi State project coordinator for the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative. 

    This World Bank-assisted project, overseen by Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo, is aimed at addressing critical issues of land degradation and erosion in Nigeria.

    Her recognition also highlighted her impressive track record as a special adviser on the environment during the administration of Captain Idris Wada, and later as the State Focal Person for the NEWMAP project under Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello. 

    Read Also: How Sara Jatto made lemonade out of lemon

    Following the completion of NEWMAP, she was appointed to lead the ACReSAL project, marking a career defined by consistent dedication to public service, strong leadership, and excellence in governance.

    Among the recipients of the other categories of awards are politicians in the silk of Hon. Leke Abejide, Member Representing Yagba Federal Constituency of Kogi State and his Colleague, Hon. Obuzor Victor of the Green Chambers.  

    The director general of Federal Emergency Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA); Director General of the  Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, The Comproller General of the Nigerian Correctional Services, NCS, were among the recipients of the awards. 

    The event was a gathering of public Servants, politicians,  Captains of Industries and elites from various walks of life.

  • AYCF defends Kaduna govt, dismisses N36b loan claim by Sahara Reporters

    AYCF defends Kaduna govt, dismisses N36b loan claim by Sahara Reporters

    The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a firm statement defending the Kaduna state government against what it described as misleading claims by Sahara Reporters.

    The report, which alleged that the state borrowed N36 billion in just six months, was rejected by the AYCF as not only inaccurate but also a violation of journalistic standards.

    In its official response, the AYCF criticized the report as a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and create division among the people of Kaduna state.

    The forum expressed unwavering support for the Kaduna State Government, which it said has clearly explained that it is responsibly managing debts inherited from the previous administration.

    It further noted that the debts have been worsened by the sharp devaluation of the Naira and include long-term commitments, such as critical projects funded by the World Bank under programs like AGILE, SURWASH, and ACReSAL.

    The AYCF said: “These initiatives were set in motion long before the current administration, led by Governor Uba Sani.”

    The forum also raised concerns about the intentions behind the misleading report, hinting at a possible connection to the previous administration under Nasir El-Rufai, which has been criticized for unaccounted debts.

    It claimed that El-Rufai’s alleged indictment by a legitimate panel, might be fueling a disinformation campaign aimed at undermining the current government.

    “The current administration is working tirelessly to address the financial challenges left by its predecessor, not to create new burdens. 

    “We find it unacceptable that a former governor, under investigation and indictment, would resort to such tactics to undermine the stability of Kaduna State”‘,  said Shettima, President General for AYCF. 

    The AYCF urged the swift legal proceedings against former Governor El-Rufai to promote accountability and transparency concerning the state’s debt.

    The forum stressed that the public has a right to clear information about the government’s financial situation and warned that any efforts to misrepresent the facts would not be tolerated.

    “Let us not forget that accountability is the foundation of good governance,” continued Shettima. 

    “We encourage the public to stay informed and engaged, as the truth about our state’s finances must come to light. Together, we will demand justice and work towards a prosperous future for Kaduna state.”

    The AYCF reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance and fiscal responsibility in Kaduna State, urging citizens to stay alert and guard against misinformation.

  • Insecurity: Sokoto govt constructs military base in Illela

    Insecurity: Sokoto govt constructs military base in Illela

    Sokoto State government says it is currently constructing a military base in Illela town to support military operations in the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality in the state.

    Economic Adviser to the state governor, Dr. Bashir Achida, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja yesterday.

    He said the move was part of the efforts of the government and people of Sokoto State towards addressing the security challenge in the northwest and country at large.

    According to him, the government, when done with the construction of the base, would hand it over to the Federal Government in line with constitutional provision which placed the military under the Exclusive list.

    He said the renewed support became necessary, given the need to secure life and properties of citizens and the strategic position of the state in  agriculture and the nation’s economic development.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: FG exempts 63 items from VAT

    According to Adicha, with a secure environment, Sokoto State would contribute more to the nation’s efforts to fight poverty and food shortage.

    He said the strategic location of the state as a major agrarian area and having an international boundary made it vulnerable to the activities of bandits and other anti-social elements.

    He said the government had provided 140 operational vehicles to support the security agencies in the state to fight criminality, banditry in the communities and the farm lands.

    Achida said the state government was also constructing major roads to make the rural communities accessible to the military as part of its contributions to the fight against banditry and terrorism.

    He said the community guards that were earlier set up by the state government had been provided with 700 motorcycles and 40 Hilus vehicles.

    This, he said, was to complement efforts of the military and other security agencies in combating banditry and other criminal activities in the state.

  • Rotary Club empowers Abuja rural children with educational boost

    Rotary Club empowers Abuja rural children with educational boost

    The Rotary Club of Abuja, Kubwa, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has supported the education of over 100 primary school pupils in Kungabokun village by providing essential learning materials.

    The club’s president, Rotarian Idowu Olayemi, said the donation, which included school bags, books, mathematical sets and writing materials, was aimed at keeping the children in school and encouraging their commitment to education.

    Leading fellow club members to the LEA Primary School in Kungabokun, in Kubwa Satellite Town of the FCT, Olayemi stated that the initiative was part of the commemoration of Rotary’s Basic Education and Literacy Month, focused on addressing the educational needs of vulnerable children.

    While addressing the children, Olayemi said: “This month is our basic education and literacy month and we are here, in our adopted community Kunga Bokun, to present these writing materials to you pupils, to assist you in your learning, your education properly.

    “These are basic necessities for basic education that we believed would assist you in the foundation of their education journey through primary school

    “The objective of the donation was to promote literacy, foster a love for learning, and provide essential resources to you children.”

    The event was met with immense gratitude and excitement from the pupils, parents, teachers and community leaders who were deeply touched by the kind gesture.

    The paramount ruler of Kungabokun, Chief Ishaya Gabaya, expressed the community’s gratitude to the Rotary Club members, highlighting the positive impact their support has had on the vulnerable community, despite its location within the Federal Capital Territory.

    “We are very grateful to Rotary Abuja, Kubwa for what they are doing for us. They rebuilt this primary school for us, yet they did not leave it like that.

    “What they are doing today is to even help our children’s education foundation by providing writing materials to help them to learn in an environment they have made conducive for the children.

    Read Also: Rotary Club of Abeokuta Metro installs president 

    “We are really grateful. That is why any time we see them coming, we are always happy because it is always a sign of good things they are bringing to our community,” he said.

    “Zainab Abubakar, a primary 5 pupil and one of the 115 students who benefited from the educational materials, expressed her gratitude for the Rotary’s gesture, saying she had always prayed to own a school bag she would be proud to carry to school every day.

    She said: “I have always wanted to own a school bag like this, now I can come to school every day and be proud of myself.

    “I really thank you ma and everybody that gave us these books and the writing materials, may God always bless you”.

    Olayemi, who encouraged the children to stay dedicated to their education and make good use of the materials provided, offered a prayer for their future, saying, “You will achieve greatness in life, Amen.”