The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Kwara rebuilds Patigi Regatta motel amid renewed tourism drive

    Kwara rebuilds Patigi Regatta motel amid renewed tourism drive

    Kwara State Government has commenced reconstruction works on the long abandoned Patigi Regatta Motel in Patigi town, opening a new frontier in the state’s aggressive tourism drive.

    The reconstruction work will span eight months and will include shopping areas and expansive parking space, according to the Honourable Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology (BIT) Damilola Yusuf.

    The Motel features standard rooms, VIP suites, conference hall, restaurants, and courtyards, among others.

    “We have already handed over the site to the  contractor,” she added.

    Read Also: Kwara renovates, expands Cottage hospital

    The Patigi Regatta Motel is located along Kpada Road (Federal Road) and 1500m from Kusogi Park in Patigi town of Kwara State.

    The government embarks on the total overhaul and remodelling of the existing structures to expand the tourism potentials of the state, generate jobs, and improve the current revenue generation drive of the state.

    The Commissioner said the facility would come handy once the Annual Patigi Regatta and fishing festival is revived for recreational purposes in that axis of the state.

  • Southern senators condemn suicide bombing

    Southern senators condemn suicide bombing

    The Southern Senators’ Forum has condemned the suicide bombing in Gwoza in Borno State, describing it as heinous and unacceptable.

    The forum commiserated with families of victims and urged the government to package a collective and robust response to terrorism in the country.

    No fewer than 18 people died and numerous others were injured.

    The forum in a statement by chairman, Tokunbo Abiru; secretary-general, Barinada Mpigi and publicity secretary, Asuquo Ekpenyong, urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts at combating terror.

    The statement reads: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the barbaric attack and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire community affected by this senseless act of violence.

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    “These heinous acts of terrorism are a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges facing our nation. The despicable act once again highlights the urgent need for a collective, collaborative and robust response to terrorism in our country.

    “We call upon the federal government and all security agencies to intensify their efforts in combating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians. Those responsible for this atrocity must be swiftly brought to justice.

    “We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s swift condemnation of the attacks and the resolve of his administration to bring the perprators to book, and the re-assurance to continue to secure the lives and properties of citizens.

    “The Southern Senators Forum extends its deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured. We remain steadfast in our commitment to work with all stakeholders to achieve lasting peace and security across Nigeria.

    “The Forum stands in solidarity with the Northern Senators Forum, and with the government and people of Borno State in this time of grief.

    “We commend the resilience and bravery of the people and the sacrifice of our security forces who continue to fight against these evil forces to protect our country. We call on all Nigerians to remain vigilant and support our security agencies in their efforts to protect our nation.

    “The Forum will continue to support measures by the Senate to provide greater support, better equipment, and enh welfare for these gallant men and women to boost their morale and effectiveness in the fight against terrorism.

    “Together we will overcome this challenge and build a safer, more peaceful Nigeria.”

  • Zamfara gov hosts new federal permanent secretary after initial rejection

    Zamfara gov hosts new federal permanent secretary after initial rejection

    Zamfara state governor, Dauda Lawal, has extended a warm reception to Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, the recently appointed Federal Permanent Secretary representing the state.

    Keshinro was among the eight new federal permanent secretaries announced last Friday.

    Other appointees with the states or regions they represent are Emanso Umobong Okop (Akwa-Ibom) Obi Emeka Vitalis (Anambra), Mahmood Fatima Sugra Tabi’a (Bauchi), Danjuma Mohammed Sanusi (Jigawa), Olusanya Olubunmi (Ondo), Akujobi Chinyere Ijeoma (South-East), and Isokpunwu Christopher Osaruwanmwen (South-South).

    In a tweet on his X handle, Governor Lawal expressed his congratulations to Dr. Keshinro during a meeting, urging her to be a good Ambassador of the State.

    He wrote: “This evening, I had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Maryam Ismail Keshinro, the newly appointed Federal Permanent Secretary from Zamfara State.

    “Her appointment has demonstrated that we have outstanding individuals making us proud at the national level. Dr. Maryam’s accomplishments impress me and the entire people of Zamfara.

    “On behalf of the Zamfara state government, I extend my best wishes to Dr. Maryam in her new role.

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    “I sincerely hope she will bring about positive change for the betterment of Nigeria and, by extension, our state.”

    The appointment of Dr. Keshinro was not without controversy, as the Zamfara State Government initially rejected her appointment, citing concerns over her state of origin.

    However, the presidency clarified that the selection process was diligent and aimed to fill vacant slots across states and geopolitical zones.

    In response to the warm reception by Governor Lawal, Dr. Keshinro expressed gratitude, stating: “I sincerely hope to bring about positive change for the betterment of Nigeria and, by extension, our state.”

  • Group tasks House on passage of shippers regulatory bill

    Group tasks House on passage of shippers regulatory bill

    The Coalition for Good Governance and Leadership (CGGL) has appealed to the House of Representatives to ensure the speedy passage of the proposed repeal and re-enactment of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and Economic Regulatory Bill.

    In a statement by its president, Dr Ogunbiyi Oguntola, the CSO said this will promote economic growth, strengthen the regulatory framework for the maritime industry, and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.

    Oguntola commended the Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki-led committee on Shipping Services for a job well done during the public hearing which accommodated all shades of opinion leaders and critical stakeholders to make inputs into the bill.

    “The new bill seeks to repeal the existing Nigerian Shippers’ Council Act and enact a new Shippers’ Council and Economic Regulatory Act, which aims to strengthen the regulatory framework for the maritime industry, promote economic growth, and protect the rights of shippers and other stakeholders,” he added. 

    “The passage of this bill is critical to the growth and development of the maritime industry and the nation’s economy. The bill’s benefits include enhanced efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, leading to improved regulation and oversight of the maritime industry.

    “It will also promote competition and innovation in the maritime industry, leading to reduced costs and improved services for shippers and other stakeholders.

    “Additionally, it will protect the rights of shippers and other stakeholders, leading to increased confidence and investment in the maritime industry.

    “Furthermore, it will increase revenue generation for the government, leading to improved funding for infrastructure development and other public services, and create jobs and economic opportunities for Nigerians, leading to improved economic growth and development.

    “The bill will address the current challenges facing the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, including the lack of an enabling law to back up its status as a Port Economic Regulator. This has hindered the agency’s ability to enforce sanctions on ports and shipping stakeholders in the nation’s maritime sector.”

    The CSO urged the House to expedite the passage of this bill, which it says is critical to the growth and development of the maritime industry and the nation’s economy.

    Read Also: Kaduna approves N4.5bn intervention fund for 15,000 households

    “We believe that the speedy passage of this bill will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, promote economic growth, and protect the rights of shippers and other stakeholders,” the statement explained. 

    “Additionally, we appeal to them to consider the importance of stakeholder engagement and consultation in the regulatory process, to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are taken into account. 

    “We also urge the House to consider the need for adequate funding and resources for the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, to enable it to effectively discharge its responsibilities, and the importance of international cooperation and collaboration, to ensure that Nigeria’s maritime industry is competitive and aligned with global best practices.”

  • Reps deputy spokesperson Agbese congratulates Speaker Abbas on chieftaincy title

    Reps deputy spokesperson Agbese congratulates Speaker Abbas on chieftaincy title

    The Deputy spokesman of the House of Representatives Hon. Philip Agbese has congratulated Speaker Tajudeen Abbas on the conferment of the chieftaincy title, KPATA (Garkuwa/Shield) of Karu, by HRH Pharm. Luka Panya.

    Agbese, in a congratulatory message, said it was well-deserved recognition of Abbas sacrifices as Nigerians have taken notice of his leadership and acknowledging his contributions to the nation.

    He noted that Abbas leadership has been a beacon of hope, adding that the parliament is grateful for his tireless efforts.

    Read Also: Onaiyekan laments poor state of nation’s education sector

    According to him: “Your Excellency, I write to extend my warmest congratulations to you on your first anniversary as Speaker of the House of Representatives. It’s a remarkable milestone, and I’m honoured to be a part of this parliament under your watch. Sir, your approach to leading this parliament has been remarkable, especially during these challenging times. Your dedication to the principles of justice, equity, and fairness has united Nigerians like never before. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, and we’re grateful for your tireless efforts.

    “Iyan Zazzau, today’s conferment of the chieftaincy title, KPATA (Garkuwa/Shield) of Karu, by HRH Pharm. Luka Panya is a well-deserved recognition of your sacrifices. I’m not surprised by this honour, as Nigerians have taken notice of your leadership and acknowledge your contributions to our great nation. Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on this achievement. I look forward to many more years of your visionary leadership. Once again, congratulations, Mr. Speaker!”

  • Why Kogi girls must acquire ICT skills, by Foundation 

    Why Kogi girls must acquire ICT skills, by Foundation 

     The Heritage and Legacy Foundation has urged girls in Kogi state to embrace information technology to enable them to function properly in leadership positions they find themselves in the future. 

     The founder of the foundation, Hassan Abdul said on Saturday, June 29, at the 2024 edition of Kogi ‘Girltech’ 2024 event, an annual “Girls in ICT” commemorative event in the state.

    He said: “Empowering women in the ICT sector is not just a matter of gender equality; it is a crucial driver of economic and social development for Kogi State and beyond. ICT is now a major driver of innovation in even sectors such as agriculture, tourism and hospitality, healthcare, and construction. 

    “Kogi’s highly intelligent workforce can gain a significant advantage with more emphasis placed on the adoption and utilization of ICT skills.”

    In a similar vein, the Senior Special Assistant on Education to the Governor of Kogi State, Nana Hauwa Kazeem also emphasised that “The world is rapidly changing, and technology is becoming an integral part of our future. Therefore, we must prepare ourselves, especially girls and women, to navigate and shape this future. 

    “By embracing ICT skills and leadership roles, we will be empowered to drive innovation, bridge the gender gap, and create a more equitable and sustainable future for all. The current administration of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo is not only passionate about education but particularly in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. 

     “We are committed to implementing the vision where every Kogite is included in the global direction and every Kogi youth is empowered with digital skills,” she said. 

     A total of 70 girls from six secondary schools in Lokoja, along with their parents and teachers attended the event. 

     The highlight of the event was the graduation of the second cohort of girls the foundation had sponsored to acquire ICT skills in partnership with Brainpals Code Academy. 

     The ten graduates had acquired skills in three main areas: web design and coding, graphic design, and digital literacy, and used the event to practically demonstrate some of the skills they had learnt. 

     Nana Hauwa awarded special cash prizes to outstanding graduands. 

    All the girls were also awarded a reward for the payment of their WAEC and JAMB fees by the foundation in recognition of their diligence. 

    Also speaking earlier at the event, Mrs. Folusho Owoeye, the immediate past Kogi State Coordinator of Nigerian Women in ICT challenged the participants and graduating students to leverage the power of self-leadership in their career growth. 

     “Self-leadership is about taking control of your own life, making informed decisions, and setting a course for your personal and professional growth. It’s about understanding who you are, what you stand for, where you want to go, and leading yourself into achieving it. In the rapidly changing world of technology, where innovation is constant and challenges are numerous, self-leadership becomes even more critical,” she said.

  • Troops arrest 47 rail track vandals, intercept vandalised iron in Kaduna

    Troops arrest 47 rail track vandals, intercept vandalised iron in Kaduna

    Troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army Kaduna while on routine patrol along Kakau Daji- Anguwan Ayaba in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have intercepted and arrested 47 suspected rail track vandals.

    The suspects who were said to have loaded two trucks with the vandalised rail tracks before their arrests, revealed that they were employed by one Alhaji Babawo who is currently at large, to load the vandalised rail tracks and off-load same in a nearby bush along the road.

    Parading the suspects during profiling at 312 Artillery Regiment Kaduna, the Acting Commander 1 Division Provost Group, Lt Col IY Rena stated that the suspects, who were arrested on June 26, are 47 in number, were profiled to ascertain their level of involvement during preliminary investigation.

    He further stated that the suspects were also individually interviewed and cross-examined while efforts are in place to arrest the gang leader who is currently at large.

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    Lt Col Rena revealed that, on visit to the crime scene, some of the vandalised rail tracks were found concealed in the nearby bush waiting to be evacuated by the criminal syndicates

    While handing over the suspects to the authorities of Nigeria Railway Corporation Kaduna Station represented by the Divisional Crime Officer, Rena urged the relevant security agencies to make adequate arrangements and deliberate efforts to secure the rail tracks from further vandalisation.

    In his remarks during the handing over of the suspects, the representative of the Nigeria Railway Corporation and Divisional Crime Officer, ASP Inuwa Dahiru commended the troops of the Nigerian Army for their proactiveness and collaboration with other security agencies in tackling the mirage of security challenges confronting the State.

    Meanwhile, the Spokesman of 1 Division, Lt. Colonel Musa Yahaya said, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Maj Gen MLD Saraso has commended the troops for their professional conduct during and after the successful arrest of the suspects.

  • Kaduna approves N4.5bn intervention fund for 15,000 households

    Kaduna approves N4.5bn intervention fund for 15,000 households

    The Kaduna state government, in a clear demonstration of its commitment to women’s economic empowerment, has launched the domestication of the National Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy.

    The government has also approved a substantial N4.5bn as a special intervention for 15,000 households in the state.

    The state’s commissioner for Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Rabi Salisu, disclosed this at a one-day citizens’ engagement workshop organised by the Development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) to support the domestication of national policy in the state.

    Read Also: Any hope for cryptocurrency market in Nigeria?

    She also disclosed that the state is determined to invest in women and girls through various interventions in economic development, education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

    While commending the Development Research and Projects Centre for supporting the state in domesticating the policy, she assured that Kaduna state would be a pacesetter in promoting, developing, and uplifting the standard of living of women in the state.

    According to her, “I want to assure you that so far, so good in the areas of social intervention, cash transfers, skills acquisition, education, and social development, adding that launching the policy will enable more investment and inclusion in the state.”

  • El-Rufai’s decision to go to court laughable –Lawmaker

    El-Rufai’s decision to go to court laughable –Lawmaker

    Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai’s decision to pursue legal action over allegations of misappropriating N432 billion has been described as laughable.

    The member representing Zaria constituency in the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Mahmud Lawal, said this in a chat with  newsmen in Kaduna.

    Lawal expressed disappointment at what he described as El-Rufai’s sudden interest in the judiciary after neglecting it for so long, adding that El-Rufai seems to have conveniently forgotten the principle of separation of powers enshrined in the constitution, which mandates non-interference between the executive, legislature, and judiciary.

    Read Also: What will Tunji Bello bring to FCCPC?

    “Does he (El-Rufai) believe that by resorting to legal action, he can obstruct the legislature from carrying out its constitutional duties?”

    The lawmaker noted that Kaduna State had never experienced such blatant misuse of public funds as recorded under El-Rufai’s tenure “where funds were misappropriated under the guise of project implementation.

     “For instance, let me illustrate what occurred at Kofar Doka in Zaria, my constituency. Billions of Naira were purportedly allocated for road projects, but tragically, the only visible activity was bulldozers demolishing people’s homes, rendering them homeless,” he said.

  • Kano governor wins Courageous Governor award

    Kano governor wins Courageous Governor award

    Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano state has received the Most Courageous Governor of the Year Award from a Lagos-based newspaper, This Nigeria.

    According to a statement by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the award was presented during the 2024 annual lecture and awards ceremony marking 25 years of continuous democratic governance.

    The accolades were bestowed following a meticulous evaluation by a panel of adjudicators appointed by the newspaper’s leadership, who assessed the performance and qualities of all 36 state governors in Nigeria.

    “Governor Yusuf was declared the winner of the Courage in Leadership Award category in the 2024 edition, in recognition of his remarkable stewardship of Nigeria’s most populous state amidst a series of legal and political challenges both within and outside the state.”

    Read Also: Kano invests N3b in classroom infrastructure

    Accepting the award on behalf of His Excellency the governor of Kano State, commissioner of Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye expressed confidence that this accolade would inspire Governor Yusuf to maintain exemplary leadership standards in Kano State and continue to elevate the performance bar.

    The second edition of This Nigeria Newspaper’s lecture and awards event took place at the ‘Yar’adua Centre in Abuja, with Governor Yusuf of Kano, alongside the Governors of Akwa Ibom and the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, being honoured as distinguished awardees 2024.