The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Abdulrazaq urges Kwarans to work for peace, stability

    Abdulrazaq urges Kwarans to work for peace, stability

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has said the people of the State are very peaceful and will avoid any action that may disrupt the peace of the state or cause destruction of lives and businesses.

    “I’m confident that the people of Kwara, whether old or young, understand that challenges of life are not to be tackled through actions that may cause further damage or have negative consequences for themselves, their families, our state, and our country,” the Governor said in a statement.

    “Kwarans learn from history. Together as a people, we faced the horror of the ENDSARS protest that some roughnecks used as a smokescreen to loot properties, businesses, and attack innocent citizens. We had to deploy scarce resources to support many of the businesses that were ruined so that no further job losses will be recorded. The scars of ENDSARS still remain with many families today.

    Read Also: Kaduna CSOs back out of August protest, say mission ambiguous

    “I understand that many of our citizens want faster actions to ease the economic situation. This is a valid concern to which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all of us in government continue to respond through multidimensional approaches. However, the worst we can do to ourselves at this time is to adopt any action that may worsen things, especially for businesses or public infrastructure put in place to serve all of us.

    “To our young people, social media influencers, and opinion moulders, I urge you to help mobilise for national growth, peace, harmony, improved socioeconomic development, general well-being, and stability. Let us avoid any action that may end in collective regret, loss of lives, or destruction of our common patrimony. A protest of any kind, however well-intentioned, may trigger off destructive actions. Let us not give in to whatever temptations to set off our state or country on the path of instability.

    “I commend the different stakeholders in the state, including community associations across the state, for mobilising for peace and stability. That is the way to go as our challenges will not disappear when we turn against one another. Our challenges are better discussed and steadily resolved in an atmosphere of peace and stability.”

  • North West Development Commission will address insecurity, says Rep members

    North West Development Commission will address insecurity, says Rep members

    …say zone won’t join planned nationwide protest

    The North Western caucus of the House of Representatives has applauded President Bola Tinubu for signing the North West Development Commission Bill into law, saying the commission will help address issues of prolonged insecurity and underdevelopment in the area.

    The northwestern part of the country made up of Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Sokoto states has been heavily degraded by insecurity in recent times.

    Speaking at a news conference on Friday, July 26, the leader of the North West caucus in the House, Hon. Sada Soli, said the Bill is part of an effort to ginger the economic and social development of the geopolitical zone and restore parity to a people who for years were forced to watch as their lands were ravaged by the gratuitous violence of bandits and other miscreants.

    Soli said the Commission will cause the rebuilding of our ruined infrastructure, from roads, schools, health facilities and markets, to homes and places of worship, business premises and other social amenities.

    He said more importantly, “The Commission brings renewed hope to a geopolitical zone whose social fabric and mental well-being have been brutalized by a senseless violence that has been unabating and intractable.

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    “The sporadic attacks have since escalated into a multidimensional crisis that has hampered agricultural activities and trade and turned some of the most industrious and thriving communities in the North West geopolitical zone into ghost towns as people flee their homes and become refugees.

    “This has manifestly impacted the famous cross-border trade and flourishing agrobusiness between the geopolitical zone and neighbouring countries.

    “Most of our border constituencies, which were historically vibrant commercial centres, with massive large-scale farmers exporting produce to various parts of Africa, including Niger Republic, Mali, and Benin Republic, have since been abandoned by farmers, importers, and exporters, due to this wanton violence. As a result, Internally Generated Revenues in these states have been negatively affected.

    “Politically, in voting so overwhelmingly for President Tinubu in the last election, the North West geopolitical zone had hoped that the famous Asiwaju, who had shown himself to be a patriot of the first order and a man who believed in fairness and equity, would make policy decisions that will bring development to our states by rescuing them from the evils of banditry and cross border terrorism.

    He said the Commission is a tremendous boost to the valiant efforts of the governors of the North West geopolitical zone and has further justified the zone’s trust in President Tinubu’s commitment to help revamp this geopolitical zone and place it on a sound pedestal.

    He appealed to the President to intensify efforts in addressing the security challenges still prevalent in the geopolitical zone particularly, and other parts of the country at large, adding that a broader security sector reform will enable our people to return to their normal lives, leading to positive changes in economic development and social order.

    He said: “n behalf of the members of the entire members of the North West Caucus in the House of Representatives and the millions of people we represent, we wish to thank President Tinubu for his abiding efforts in leading this country through difficult times and to appeal to Nigerians to continue to give this government their unalloyed support.”

    He said as a result of the performance of the President, members of the National Assembly, particularly from the North West and indeed other political, traditional, and religious leaders in the North West geopolitical zone will not support the planned nationwide protest

    “We do not support the scheduled nationwide protest planned by some elements to further disrupt the very delicate balance of the country right now.

    “We appeal to the peaceful and law-abiding people of the North West geopolitical zone, who have suffered enough disruption of their peace, not to join in this potentially destructive exercise, but rather to give governments at both the Federal and State levels more chance to look at the issues concerned”.

    He commended those who support d the passage of the bill while calling for a similar commitment on the part of those who would be saddled with managing this Commission to ensure that they worked diligently to realize the goals of this bill and the promise it holds for the development of the North West geopolitical zone.

  • Protest: Governor Sokoto, stakeholders distant state against action

    Protest: Governor Sokoto, stakeholders distant state against action

    Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto on Friday, July 26, said that the state has collectively distanced itself from the planned purported national protest as a result of the current hardship being faced in the country.

    However, stakeholders from across various interest groups including religious leaders, community heads, students, labour organisations and civil society unanimously kicked against the proposed national protest.

    Professor A.A. Yagawal, and Shiekh Abubakar Jibrin among key Ulamas buttressed their position by citing the teachings of Islam which abhors protest in any guise.

    According to them, “You cannot because of your problem inflict pain on others through unjustified ways.

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    “Leaders must also have a rethink and do the needful that will secure and provide succour for citizens. We are faced with myriads of challenges of insecurity, high cost of living, and other social ills which should be addressed”, they stressed.

    Besides, the governor noted that the faceless protest action would instead of placing the country on constructive progress, will end up provoking gross setbacks and destruction of huge magnitude.

    Aliyu Sokoto made the position of the state known shortly after a stakeholders’ interactive session which attracted the presence of Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Muhammad Bello Goronyo, former Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, Alhaji Umaru Kwabo ” Jarman Sokoto” among key others held at the International Conference Centre where he emphatically described the unhealthy move as one capable of jeopardizing national interest and development, national security and overall peaceful co-existence.

    “We in Sokoto have distanced ourselves and will eschew all acts of lawlessness”, noting that Nigeria remains the only and loving country we belong to.

    The interactive session tagged for ‘Peace, Development and Progress “was also attended by various social and student groups including Ulamas, and traditional and religious leaders from across the state.

    Accordingly, the governor applauded President Bola Tinubu for deliberately pushing and implementing measures to strategically cushion the effects of the current hardship being faced.

    He enumerated among others, the introduction of student loan schemes, supporting states, actualising local government autonomy, and many other visible but viable programmes to empower youths and women.

    Aliyu Sokoto who also acknowledged there was hardship also disclosed that the state government was fast playing its part by making life better for its citizens through various supports.

    “We provided financial support to traders, youth, and women empowerment, uplifted the living of our Ulamas, disabled and the needy segments as well farmers in billions of naira.

    “We have encouraged a large population of our youths by supporting them with tricycles, and motorcycles for commercial purposes and boosted the state transport service outfit with new inter and interstate services at reasonable fares”, he added.

  • Ex-agitators commit to promoting peace in Niger Delta 

    Ex-agitators commit to promoting peace in Niger Delta 

    A coalition of Niger Delta Ex-Agitators for Good Governance has restated its commitment to promoting peace, security, and sustainability in the Niger Delta region.

    Coordinator of the group, Momos Wilberforce, who said this in a statement, urged all stakeholders to support the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr. Dennis Otuaro’s efforts towards promoting peace in the region. 

    Wilberforce admonished the Project Niger Delta (PND) to stop its alleged campaign of calumny against the PAP administrator. 

    He noted that a recent publication allegedly authored by PND against Otuaro was a device meant to distract and disrupt the peacebuilding initiatives, security, and developmental sustainability efforts made by the PAP administrator. 

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    Wilberforce stated that PAP under Otuaro’s leadership was focused on ensuring sustainability and security for the future of the Niger Delta.

    He added that attempts alleged attempt by PND “to discredit Otuaro’s endorsement by Professor Benjamin Okaba are misplaced and biased.”

    He urged the group to join hands in supporting the good cause Otuaro has started.

    “We urge PND to desist from their campaign of calumny and join hands with us to ensure that the core purpose for the creation of the Amnesty Programme is actualised,” the statement said. 

  • Protecting the Guardians of Our Coastlines – Celebrating International Mangrove Day

    Protecting the Guardians of Our Coastlines – Celebrating International Mangrove Day

    By Chief (Barr.) Ladi Ahmed Jatto – OON

    July 26th marks a crucial day in the Conservation Calendar – The International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems.

    Mangroves, the unsung heroes of our coastal ecosystems, play a vital role in safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity, climate, and human well-being.

    Mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow mainly in tropical coastal swamps having numerous tangled roots that grow above ground and form dense thickets. In Nigeria for instance, it is found in the coastal region of the Niger-Delta.

    The Niger-Delta mangrove ecosystem is increasingly being threatened by Nipa palm, encroachment, industrial and oil pollution. There is therefore a great need to protect, restore and conserve mangrove forest!

    Mangrove forest shields communities from extreme weather events, protect lives and properties from storm surge, prevent erosion and stabilize coasts.

    Why Mangroves matter: –

    Coastal Protection: Mangroves act as natural barrier against storms, erosion, and tsunamis; shielding communities and infrastructure.

    Carbon Sequestration:

    These ecosystems are highly efficient at absorbing carbon dioxide, making them a crucial tool in the fight against climate change.

    Biodiversity Hotspots:

    Mangroves provide habitat for a diverse array of species, including fish, birds, and mammals.

    Livelihoods: Mangrove forests support the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide, through fishing, tourism, and other industries.

    The Threats:

    Deforestation: Mangrove clearance for agriculture, urbanization, and other human activities poses a significant threat to these ecosystems.

    Climate Change:

    Rising sea levels, increased temperatures, and ocean acidification, all impact mangrove health and resilience.

    Chief Ladi Ahmed Jatto. OON, MBA,MIAD, BL, LLB, FCISM (DR). Was the Former -SA on Environment  to Kogi Govt., – SA on Multilateral and Donor Agency to Kogi govt., – ⁠Project Coordinator/ Head NEWMAP Kogi, Currently the project Coordinator ACReSAL Kogi state

  • Kebbi First Lady bags 2024 Humanitarian Award

    Kebbi First Lady bags 2024 Humanitarian Award

    The First Lady of Kebbi State, Dr. Nafisa Nasir Idris, is set to receive a prestigious Humanitarian Award in recognition of her remarkable contributions to humanitarian efforts and community devel​opment.

    Dr. Idris, the founder and chairperson of the Nafisa Nasir Charity Development Foundation (NANAS Foundation), has been instrumental in fostering sustainable development and improving the lives of countless individuals through her dedicated work.

    The award will be presented during the 2024 Humanitarian Awards and Magazine Event, scheduled to take place on August 24th at Merit House, Maitama, FCT Abuja.

    This event, which aims to celebrate and recognize individuals and organizations making outstanding contributions to society, will feature a series of impactful activities throughout the week leading up to the awards ceremony.

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    The event will kick off on August 19th with a press conference to officially launch the celebrations. From August 20th to August 23rd, the organizers will conduct various humanitarian outreach programs, including feeding street beggars, visiting the School of the Blind with writing materials and food items, organizing a football game titled “Kick Out Hunger,” and hosting a skill acquisition workshop.

    Dr. Nafisa Nasir Idris has been selected for her unwavering commitment to uplifting underprivileged communities and her tireless efforts in promoting education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Through NANAS Foundation, she has initiated numerous programs aimed at improving the well-being of vulnerable populations, providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive.

    Expressing her gratitude, Dr. Idris stated, “It is an immense honor to be recognized with this award. Our work at NANAS Foundation is driven by a deep passion for making a positive impact in the lives of those in need. This recognition motivates us to continue our mission with even greater dedication.”

    Mr. Emmanuel Anabueze, founder of the Humanitarian Awards and Magazine Event, also commended Dr. Idris’s efforts, saying, “Dr. Nafisa Nasir Idris exemplifies the spirit of humanitarianism through her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. We are delighted to honor her exceptional contributions and celebrate the positive change she has brought to her community and beyond.”

    The 2024 Humanitarian Awards and Magazine Event promises to be a memorable occasion, bringing together distinguished guests, award recipients, and humanitarian organizations to celebrate and recognize the incredible work being done to create a better world.

  • Dangote Refinery: Northern youths ask Tinubu to probe, punish NNPCL officials with blending plant abroad

    Dangote Refinery: Northern youths ask Tinubu to probe, punish NNPCL officials with blending plant abroad

    Amid controversy and allegations of sabotage against the Dangote Refinery by top officials in the petroleum sector, the Coalition of Northern Youths for Good Governance has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to investigate and punish corrupt officials within the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), particularly those who own or operate blending plants abroad.

    The Coalition also called for a probe into the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the suspension of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Farouk Ahmed, for allegedly misleading the nation about the status of the Dangote Refinery.

    Joined by other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at a press conference held at Arewa House, Kaduna, on Thursday, the Coalition expressed disappointment that the regulatory body has undermined the high expectations surrounding the Dangote Refinery.

    Speaking on behalf of the groups, Jabir Aminu Maiturare, President of the Coalition of Northern Youths for Good Governance, stated that they felt compelled to address the ‘falsehoods’ propagated by Dr. Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the NMDPRA.

    According to Maiturare, “NMDPRA’s CEO’s misleading statements have led Nigerians to unwittingly accept half-truths, cover-ups, outright lies, and distorted facts about the Dangote Refinery. We find it necessary to counter his ignorant, pedestrian, and rambling comments that the refinery is still in the pre-commissioning stage and has not been licensed to begin full operations.

    “While Nigerians prematurely celebrated the completion of the Dangote Refinery, anticipating a more competitive local petroleum market, Aliko Dangote’s frustrations have unfortunately deepened distrust and scepticism towards the system.

    “This situation has become a national embarrassment, with dishonest elements within the NNPC sabotaging the efforts of Africa’s most enterprising businessman and sending the wrong signals to global investors.

    “When Aliko Dangote raised concerns about the unholy activities of certain agents and international oil companies hindering his refinery from obtaining crude oil, he highlighted Section 109 of the Petroleum Industry Act. This section introduced the Domestic Crude Supply Obligation to ensure that local refineries receive crude allocations without being strangled.

    “We must ask these regulatory sharks: How can a man have a refinery in an oil-producing country yet be forced to import crude oil from another nation?

    “For years, we have consistently called for new local refineries and the renovation of existing ones. Yet, here we are today, facing obfuscation, equivocation, and the esoteric manoeuvres of those in power, which remain the bane of our economy. Does it mean that if the Port-Harcourt Refinery had been fixed after Turn Around Maintenance, it would have suffered Dangote’s fate? Does Dangote only have a ghost of a chance of succeeding in the face of Nigeria’s prolonged maladies, corruption, favouritism, foul play, double standards, and deliberate sabotage?

    “The Dangote Refinery is the cornerstone of reducing Nigeria’s dependency on imported refined products. It is crucial for national development and economic independence. Yet, due to selfish interests and perfidious desires, some agents of darkness accuse Dangote of monopolistic tendencies while tarnishing Nigeria’s global image.

    “We all witnessed at the official commissioning of the refinery where eminent leaders in government and the energy industry outlined a roadmap for the robust opportunities the Dangote refinery represents in driving Nigeria’s economic growth.

    “It is significant and commendable that Aliko Dangote built the largest single-train refinery in the world and the second-largest fertilizer plant. This achievement ensures Nigeria, Africa, and the global business environment can enjoy its utility value. What could be the rationale behind the non-supply of crude oil to the refinery?

    “Industry players and government operators blame crude oil theft. Is this a mockery of someone’s good intentions? This means the nation is losing potential revenue and savings, which has adversely affected the Dangote Refinery.

    “A functional Dangote Refinery will greatly benefit Nigeria by reducing reliance on imported refined petroleum products, thus saving substantial foreign exchange and improving the country’s trade balance. The refinery will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, contributing to lower unemployment rates. It will also generate significant tax revenues and royalties for the government, boosting public finances. Additionally, increased local refining capacity will lead to more stable and potentially lower fuel prices, providing economic relief to Nigerians.

    “Moreover, the availability of refined products will stimulate industrial growth in sectors such as petrochemicals, plastics, and fertilizers, fostering overall economic development. The project will spur infrastructure development, including ports, pipelines, and roads, benefiting the broader economy.

    “By bringing cutting-edge technology and expertise to Nigeria, the refinery will enhance local capacity and skills in the oil and gas sector, promoting technological advancement and sustainable economics,” Maiturare said.

    The coalition, however, called on President Tinubu to suspend the NMDPRA CEO pending a probe into the allegations against the regulatory body.

    It also said that, in the interest of salvaging the image, reputation, and integrity of Nigeria, all identified NNPC officials involved in this corruption must be punished. Any NNPC official who owns or operates a blending plant in Malta or elsewhere should be brought to book.

    “The government and private security outfits contracted to secure the waterways must intensify their activities to end crude oil theft.

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    “Nigerians are caught between confusion and anger at NNPC officials for allowing Dangote Refinery to suffer under-production. We support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s fight against corruption, which has stunted the nation’s economic development.

    “Relevant anti-graft agencies, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the DSS, and the NIA must urgently act and bring all those involved in these dirty deals to book.

    Finally, let us overcome our myopia and other maladies that afflict us, and build a better Nigeria for ourselves and future generations. We urge the President to assure Aliko Dangote that his refinery will not fail and to encourage and protect both local and global investors.

  • Tributes for ex-NIMASA DG Ferdinand Agu

    Tributes for ex-NIMASA DG Ferdinand Agu

    On Wednesday night, prominent Nigerians gathered to pay last respects to former Director General of Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety (NIMASA), Sir Ferdinand Nwabueze Agu.

    The former Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan died on June 7, 2024 at 64.

    The roll call of dignitaries at the Night of Tributes for the Director General of the defunct National Maritime Authority (NMA) include former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Simon Okeke Ochindo, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Kalu, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.

    Other dignitaries at the night  were former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pallen Fallen; former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka; former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke jr, former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mrs. Farida Waziri, among others.

    Opening the floodgates of encomiums on Agu, the Chairman of planning committee for the event and former Senate President Anyim who said his association with the deceased spanned over two decades noted that the array of Nigerians at the ceremony typified the lifestyle of Agu, whom he said meant different things to many people.

    Eulogising Agu, the former Senate President said: “I have known him for over 20 years, he was deep and thoughtful and yet humble. He was brilliant and ebullient and yet honest and straight. He was loyal and committed to every relationship he finds himself and yet a man of his own convictions. That was the Ferdinand I knew for over 20 years.”

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    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu said Agu’s sudden departure has left a void that words could scarcely describe, but his legacy, rich with generosity, compassion, and dedication, remained ever-present in the minds of people.

    He further  said that Agu was more than a public servant who served the country with distinction and honour, adding that he was a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength for many. 

    “Ferdinand was a gentleman of profound kindness and humility. His life was a testament to the power of compassion and the impact one individual can have on countless lives. 

    “He reached out to those in need, offering not just material support, but a listening ear, a kind word, and a spirit of encouragement. His philanthropy was not about grand gestures but about the quiet, consistent acts of generosity that changed lives and built communities,” Kalu said.

    Former Senate President Ken Nnamani noted that  the accounts of Agu’s contemporaries showed that he was an encyclopedia.

    Nnamani stated: “Ferdinand, we may not be contemporaries, but as a respectful individual, carries himself with his charisma, you cannot ignore him, he doesn’t matter how old you are. Personality is something that is naturally endowed. He was endowed. It is difficult to talk about him in the past, but the truth is that he is gone. 

    “The family, if you turn around and see the galaxy of individuals here, it will give you a little bit of solace. If you also take a closer look at the qualities of individuals who have attended this occasion, it goes to confirm what some of us know about Ferdinand.

    “Because if your contemporaries are honest enough to say the truth about you, and if you are a liar, it is your contemporaries that will expose you quickly because they know you more than others.”

    For Tallen who knew Agu for over 25 years ago, the former presidential aide was “a reliable, dependable, committed and a good man. 

    “It is so painful for me to stand here and talk about Ferdinand in the past. Apart from his intellectual capacity, he was simply phenomenal. Nigeria has lost one of its best. He lived an impactful life.

    Recalling the solid foundation Agu laid during the formative days of NIMASA, the current Director General of the agency, Dayo Mobereola said Agu brought in a breath of fresh air to the agency in 2000 when he was appointed as the Chief Executive.

    “He was appointed as an undertaker, however, Arc. Ferdinand Agu with his true passion, his personal conviction and professionalism turnaround, transformed NIMASA. He was a paradox, an enigma. There was no financial scandal during his time.”

    Different groups and tribal and religious associations, alumni and highly placed dignitaries took time to pay tributes to a man many referred as a tiger without harmful claws. 

  • Protest: Ahmadu Bello Foundation, Arewa Think Tank, Youth Assembly back out

    Protest: Ahmadu Bello Foundation, Arewa Think Tank, Youth Assembly back out

    Rising from a one-day conference of the Arewa Youth Assembly, Arewa Think Tank in collaboration with Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation has announced the decision to back out of the planned nationwide protest against the government of President Bola Tinubu over socio-economic hardship in the country.

    A communique issued and read after the meeting by the Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu noted that the conference theme, “Fuel Your Creativity: Choosing Entrepreneurship for Progress”, resonated well with the Northern youths and held significant potential for the benefit of the entire country.

    The communiqué stated: “We strongly oppose protests in any form, as they often lead to violence, loss of lives, and property damage. Instead, we advocate for constructive engagement with authorities through dialogue and peaceful means.”

    The communique read in part: “We strongly denounce protests under any guise, as they are counterproductive and can lead to violence, loss of lives, and destruction of properties. Therefore we have resolved that we will not be part of any protests. We call on Nigerian Youth to engage authorities constructively through peaceful and legal means, such as dialogue and constructive engagement.

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    “We, the youth of the Arewa Youth Assembly, remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, advocating for youth development, and promoting peace and progress in our nation. We call on all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, to join hands with us in achieving these goals

    “We, the youth, firmly resolve to embrace entrepreneurship as a powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and foster wealth creation in Nigeria. We recognize that by developing our entrepreneurial skills and knowledge, we can become self-sustainable and reduce dependence on the government for employment opportunities.

    “We call upon the government to implement robust measures aimed at developing the knowledge and skills of the youth. It is essential for the government to prioritize youth development and empowerment as a matter of urgency, both at the national and sub-national levels.

    “We urge the Federal Government to address the prevailing issues of banditry and insurgency effectively. By ensuring security and stability. 

    “The youth can actively engage in the agricultural sector, which has significant potential for business opportunities and economic growth. 

    “We call upon Governments at the sub-national level, specifically the states, to prioritize youth development and empowerment. It is crucial for State Governments to allocate resources and create programs that support the growth and advancement of young people in their respective states.

    “We advise youth across the country to seek enhanced knowledge, skills, and competencies required for competitiveness in the 21st century. It is imperative for young people to equip themselves with the necessary tools and adapt to the rapidly evolving global landscape”.

  • Southern Borno leaders protest Ndume’s removal as Senate Majority Whip

    Southern Borno leaders protest Ndume’s removal as Senate Majority Whip

    …appeal to Tinubu, Akpabio to reinstate him

    Supporters of former Majority Whip of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume, on Wednesday, July 24, staged a peaceful protest in Abuja to register their displeasure over his removal.

    Ndume was recently removed as Majority Whip following a complaint by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over his comments in an interview that the party considered distasteful.

    The protesters under the banner of Southern Borno Development Association (SBDA), stormed the Unity Fountain with placards bearing inscriptions calling for justice, fairness, and reinstatement of Ndume.

    The leader of the group and Secretary of the SBDA, Muhammad Ibrahim Biu, claimed that Ndume was not given a fair hearing before he was sacked.

    He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to temper justice with mercy and reinstate Ndume, who is their major benefactor.

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    Biu, while addressing reporters during the protest, said: “We express our displeasure over the issue that the Senate decided to strip Senator Ndume of his position as the Majority Whip of the Senate.

    “That decision was based on the decision of the Senate on a complaint from the national chairman of the APC.

    “We felt Senator Ndume was not given a fair hearing and what Senator Ndume said is not something new, because other senators of the APC have also expressed similar views on the floor of the Senate.

    Everybody knows Senator Ndume will be frank on all issues that concern Nigerians and he gave the President suggestions on what to do.

    “The President, being a listening president, has started implementing the advice because we can see, quickly he forwarded a bill on the issue of the minimum wage, which the National Assembly, that is the Senate and the House of Representatives, passed yesterday (Tuesday). We strongly believe that what Senator Ndume said made the president take that action, which Nigerians are grateful for.

    “Secondly, we from Southern Borno Senatorial District, Senator Ndume’s position as the majority whip, is the only position that Southern Borno has in the National Assembly and even at the federal level.

    “So we feel short-changed by the removal of Senator Ali Ndume from that position. We are therefore appealing to the Senate President and the Senate to reconsider their decisions, taking into consideration the contributions of Senator Ndume in the National Assembly in the last 20 years.

    He has been a dogged Senator who believed in the rule of law and who contributed immensely even to the emergence of the present leadership of the Senate.

    “We therefore appeal passionately to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio and all other senators to reconsider this decision in the interest of fairness and justice.

    “We also appeal to the Senate President in particular, that there is no way you can throw the baby and the bath water away.

    Senator Ndume is a beacon in the Senate and everybody knows that. So we are appealing to the Senate to reconsider their decision.

    “On the basis of that, that is why you see us all here gathered for this peaceful solidarity rally to support the stand of Senator Ali Ndume

    “He has personally said he has left everything to Allah, but at the same time we have to cry out so that the government will listen to us, being that the government is a listening government.”