The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Public servants urged to maintain integrity in govt

    Public servants urged to maintain integrity in govt

    A non-governmental organisation, Accountability Lab Nigeria has urged Nigerians holding public offices to continue to maintain the culture of integrity.

    The Country Director, Accountability Lab Nigeria, Odeh Friday said this during the 8th edition of the Integrity Icon Summit organised in partnership with John D and Catherine T MacArthur Foundation, Luminate and Yar’Adua Foundation in Abuja.

    The organisation honoured five public servants working in different parts of the country with its 2024 Integrity Icons award at the event.

    The awardees were; Inspector Kamoshi Tada under the Fagge Police Station Kano State,
    Olugbenga Johnson Kuye from the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre (LASAEC), Ezekiel Osemuahu from the Edo State Public Procurement Agency, Temitope Ojoge with Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School Ondo State, and Idowu Quadri with the Onigbongbo Local Council Development Agency (LCDA) Lagos State.

    The Country Director noted that the five awardees were selected from over 2,500 nominations submitted by Nigerians.

    He said Accountability Lab remained committed to name and fame, celebrating and amplifying the stories of public servants who embody the principles of honesty, accountability and responsible leadership in a nation bedevilled with pervasive corruption and persistent lack of accountability.

    Odeh said: “We are here today to celebrate amazing public servants who are doing the right thing, doing really exceptionally well, to ensure that they build trust within citizens and their government offices.Today the Integrity Icon names and fames them.

    “Basically we’ve been doing this for over eight years just to ensure that we build a network of integrity, of public servants doing the right thing, people who have the right behaviours, who have the right social norms to help us enhance the trust with public servants. We are celebrating them to see that we can continue to give hope to Nigerians, to ensure that people are still doing the right thing and people are still making governance work for citizens in government offices.

    “When it comes to a couple of government offices, it’s not about bribes. Sometimes you manipulate data to ensure that you are telling the right story. But again, it doesn’t help planning as a country but we have people who ensure that the right things are being done from hospitals to schools.

    “Even in procurement processes, we have people who ensure the cycle of procurement is being respected, that people have the information that a contract is happening in your community then they can also monitor and support to give you feedback. So it’s building that trust in the government.

    “So we ensure that the criteria are basically supported by citizens. So we don’t nominate these icons. The citizens nominate them and send them to us then we collate.

    “Over this year, we’ve had over 2,500 nominations; then we review the nominations to ensure that the stories that have been told and the work that has been done on these criteria fits the context and what we can tell stories about.”

    Executive Director, African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), Dr. Otive Igbuzor, regretted that a report indicating that only 43% of Nigerians expressed trust in their government, highlights a significant gap in public confidence in governance processes.

    Speaking on the topic, “Building Trust in Governance Processes: The Power of Ethical Behaviours and Positive Norms,” Otive said: “In Nigeria, trust deficits have become a pervasive issue, fuelled by corruption, lack of transparency, poor service delivery, and a history of unfulfilled promises.

    “The trust deficit has profound implications, from political instability and economic downturns to weakened social cohesion. For instance, Trust deficit can lead to protest and uprising as seen in Sudan (2019), Sri Lanka (2022) and #ENDSARS protest in Nigeria in 2020.”

    Otive listed some practical steps that could build trust in Nigeria through ethics and norms to include: strengthening governance institutions to resist undue influence and enforce ethical standards, promoting inclusive governance processes to reflect the diverse needs of society, capacity building for ethical leadership, leveraging technology for accountability, recognising and rewarding integrity.

    He said: “Building trust in governance processes is both an urgent necessity and a collective responsibility. The persistent trust deficit, fuelled by corruption, lack of transparency, and weak institutional frameworks, demands deliberate and sustained actions from all stakeholders.

    “Ethical behaviours and positive norms form the cornerstone of trustworthy governance, fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

    “As we celebrate individuals who embody integrity at this summit, let their examples serve as a clarion call for all leaders and institutions to prioritise ethical conduct and adopt positive governance norms. Rebuilding trust in governance is not just about institutional reforms; it is about restoring hope and confidence in leadership and creating an environment where citizens feel represented and valued.”

    Also, the Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr Musa Adamu, lauded Accountability Lab Nigeria’s efforts over the years while reaffirming the commission’s partnership to strengthen their mandate.

    Adamu, represented by Mr John Ode, a staff of the commission, said that the rigorous process of identifying integrity icons aligned with ICPC mission to promote transparency and accountability.

    Also, Mrs Gloria Omene, representing the Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), commended the ceremony for inspiring hope and fostering integrity in governance.

    She stressed that public service remains central to Nigeria’s transformation agenda and urged awardees to continue leading by example.

    “Public service is core to the transformation agenda of the country. Therefore, it remains a strategic goal to drive integrity in service delivery to the citizenry,” she said.

    Assistant Inspector of Police, Inspector Ben Igwe, highlighted the force’s commitment to combating corruption under the leadership of the Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun.

    He said that the force was working hard to ensure that integrity was restored.

  • Once Upon Four Robbers premieres in Abuja

    Once Upon Four Robbers premieres in Abuja

    Abuja’s theatre scene is set to come alive as the much-anticipated stage play “Once Upon Four Robbers” takes centre stage at the NAF Conference Centre this weekend.

    The iconic production, written by renowned playwright, Femi Osofisan, and directed by the talented Dire Badejo, promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for theatre enthusiasts.

    A statement by Dire Badejo, explained that “Once Upon Four Robbers” delves into the pressing issues of poverty and the moral dilemmas surrounding survival, making it strikingly relevant in today’s society.

    It further noted that the narrative follows the lives of four robbers ensnared in a cycle of societal corruption and economic despair, highlighting how circumstances, not choice, can drive individuals to crime.

    “Osofisan’s work serves as a poignant reflection of the ongoing struggles faced by many in contemporary African nations,” the statement noted.

    The statement added that the production featured an impressive cast of 50 performers, enriched with elements of dance, music, and humour, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees, stressing that as festive season approaches, the play offers a unique opportunity to celebrate, while also encouraging a shift in mindset towards more positive societal goals.

    “Beyond its entertainment value, “Once Upon Four Robbers’ seeks to impart moral lessons and challenge audiences to reconsider their perspectives on historical narratives. The play merges drama, culture, and entertainment, creating a family-friendly weekend event that caters to a wide audience.

    “Prospective attendees are advised to secure their tickets online ahead of time, as there will be no sales available at the venue. This highly awaited production is expected to mesmerise audiences with its compelling storytelling and dynamic performances. Theatre lovers are encouraged not to miss the chance to engage with one of Nigeria’s most celebrated theatrical works.

    “The theatre work was proudly supported by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, reinforcing the company’s commitment to fostering cultural and literary advancement in Nigeria.”

  • Commission appeals to Nigerians to support human rights fund

    Commission appeals to Nigerians to support human rights fund

    The National Human Rights Commission has appealed to Nigerians to support the Human Rights Fund which remains unfunded till date. 

    Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu SAN stated this on Tuesday in Abuja during an awareness walk organised in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), funded by the European Union and implemented by International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) to commemorate the International Human Rights Day.

    Ojukwu urged Nigerians to contribute to the promotion of human rights by donating their resources.

    Speaking to reporters, the Executive Secretary underscored the need for Nigerians to recognise that protecting human rights was a collective responsibility that goes beyond government efforts alone. 

    He lauded RoLAC for its valuable support, which he said helped ensure the programme’s success.

    Ojukwu said: “We need resources, because all these things cannot be done without resources. The government is trying, but they can do a lot better, they can do a lot more. And also note that it is not only for the government to assist in addressing human rights violations.

    Read Also: Fundamental human rights should be protected

    “Private individuals, companies, can also donate. It doesn’t have to be cash, they can donate equipment. They can donate computers, they can donate laptops, they can donate vehicles. They can donate facilities, tables, chairs, all those kinds of things, they all help. 

    “So we call upon Nigerians to see addressing rights of Nigerians as a common problem, not only to be left to the government. There is a Human Rights Fund, nobody has donated one naira to that fund. Why can’t we have a lot of private individuals in this country that can afford to donate M100 million, and it will not mean anything to them.?”

    Chairman, Governing Council of the National Human Rights Commission, Dr. Salamatu Suleiman said commemoration of human rights day should not be confined to one day but celebrated everyday.

    She said emphasis must be placed on out-of-school children, stressing that if they are educated, it will eliminate vices in the society.

    The International Human Rights Day is celebrated annually on December 10 to commemorate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). 

    It is the highpoint of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence which commenced on November 25.

  • Coalition hails Sen Lamido for offering scholarships to 100 students

    Coalition hails Sen Lamido for offering scholarships to 100 students

    The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CCSO) has commended the senator representing Sokoto East Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Primary Health Care, Senator Ibrahim Lamido for his commitment to education and human capital development.

    The coalition commended the senator for sponsoring over 100 students from across the Sokoto East Senatorial District to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs in India under a fully-funded scholarship initiative.

    The National Coordinator of the coalition, Muhammad Muyiddeen in a statement on Tuesday said: “We applaud Senator Lamido for sponsoring over 100 deserving students from across the Sokoto East Senatorial District to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs in India under a fully-funded scholarship initiative. This laudable gesture demonstrates his unwavering belief in the transformative power of education as a tool for societal advancement and youth empowerment.

    “The scholarship program is indeed groundbreaking and inspiring. It is remarkable that the full tuition fees covering the entire duration of the beneficiaries’ programs have been paid upfront. This ensures that the students will focus entirely on their academic pursuits without the burden of financial concerns. Such forward-thinking leadership is rare and deserving of the highest commendation.

    “This initiative is bound to have far-reaching benefits for the people of Sokoto East. It will not only enhance the future prospects of the beneficiaries but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the Senatorial District. The exposure to quality education and international experience will empower the beneficiaries to return as skilled professionals who can drive positive change in their communities and beyond.

    Read Also: Senator Lamido distributes 16 trucks of rice, textile materials palliative

    “Senator Ibrahim Lamido’s exemplary commitment to education and human capital development underscores his vision as a leader who prioritizes the long-term development of his constituents. He has set a standard of service and representation that should inspire other public officeholders across the nation to emulate. We call on representatives at all levels of government to adopt similar initiatives, as investing in education is investing in the future of our society.

    “We also urge the beneficiaries of this scholarship to seize this rare opportunity with both hands. They must dedicate themselves to excellence in their academic pursuits and serve as good ambassadors of Sokoto East, Sokoto State, the North, and Nigeria as a whole. By excelling in their studies and embodying the values of discipline, hard work, and integrity, they will not only make their families and communities proud but also justify the significant investment made by Senator Lamido.

    “Once again, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Senator Ibrahim Lamido for his visionary leadership. This initiative will remain a shining example of what is possible when leaders prioritise the needs of their people and commit to building a better future for all.”

  • AbdulRazaq hails FG’s energy transition as Kwara gets CNG buses, three-wheelers

    AbdulRazaq hails FG’s energy transition as Kwara gets CNG buses, three-wheelers

    Kwara Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq on Tuesday received 20 gas-powered buses and 20 tricycles from the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) to ease mass transit in the State. 

    Speaking in Ilorin at the handover ceremony of the vehicles, the Governor said the initiative forms part of the government’s efforts to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on the populace.

    AbdulRazaq thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the PCNGi, and his own team for making steady progress in this regard. 

    “As our country navigates the gradual shift to cleaner energy in the wake of fuel subsidy removal, we are today taking delivery of 20 gas-powered buses and 20 tricycles from the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI),” he said. 

    “This is another strategic partnership between our government, private sector players, and the Federal Government to bring ease to our people. 

    “These 18-seater shuttle buses and tricycles will be deployed to support the public transport system at a discounted cost to the people.”

    The Governor said the government is also partnering with B-One Mobility Limited, which is setting up an assembly plant for gas-powered tricycles in the state.

    The partnership offers huge socioeconomic benefits for the people of the state in the area of job creation, poverty reduction, and affordable and clean transport system, the Governor added.

    Zubair, for his part, said Kwara is one of the states that have keyed into the CNG initiative and assured the state of the federal government’s strong partnership, especially with huge investment in the establishment of more conversion centres.

    Read Also: AbdulRazaq, Makinde make case for investment in STEM education

    He said the target of the federal government was to convert about 1 million vehicles from petrol to CNG and appreciated Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for being one of the pillars behind the transformative agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 

    Saraf said the programme will create 5,000 direct and 9,500 indirect employment opportunities, adding “our vision extends far beyond job creation. We are introducing a holistic mobility ecosystem solution that includes utility vehicles, garbage tippers, ambulances, and fire fighting equipment- CNG tractors”.

    He commended the President’s vision and unwavering belief in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) technology, saying “his forward-thinking approach has created the enabling environment for such transformative investments”.

  • Organisations seek increased funding to curb SGBV, implementation of VAPP Act

    Organisations seek increased funding to curb SGBV, implementation of VAPP Act

    The Women Advocates Research and Documentation Center (WARDC), in collaboration with CARE International, has called for increased funding to curb Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the country.

    They also called for stronger measures to strengthen and fully implement the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, 2015.

    They made the call in Abuja at a press conference, with the theme, ‘Building Consensus on Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act: Strengthening and Ensuring Accountability on SGBV.’

    The founding director of WARDC, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, said there was a need for the government to allocate not less than 0.5% of national tax revenue to enhance legal aid and conduct public awareness campaigns.

    Dr. Akiyode said repealing the VAPP Act might undermine the progress made in protecting women and girls from violence.

    “The proposed amendments did not adequately address the issue of consent in cases of rape. The VAPP Act’s definition of consent is problematic, and the proposed amendments do not address this issue.

    “We demand a public hearing on the VAPP Repeal Bill by the National Assembly to enable stakeholders to present opinions that will support a more robust VAPP Act.

    “We call for continuous engagement with stakeholders, including civil society, law enforcement, and the judiciary, it is crucial to ensure that the VAPP Act 2015 reflects the needs of all relevant parties. Strengthening the VAPP Act 2015 and addressing its implementation challenges through necessary amendments can create a more just and equitable society for all.”

    The acting executive director of WARDC, Emmanuelle Azu, expressed concerns that repealing the Act could leave survivors without adequate protection and support.

    Azu also called for stricter prison terms instead of fines for severe offences, stating that sentencing will serve as a better deterrence from SGBV.

    Azu while stating the organisation’s support for the proposals for a survivor support fund, called for increased funding in light of the proposed repeal and re-enactment of the VAPP Act.

    “The proposed amendments are necessary but they must be accompanied by a robust financial commitment to ensure effective implementation. There is a great need for an inclusive allocation criterion that prioritises gender equity in all areas and sectors of the nation.

    “We call for increased funding for full implementation and we demand at least 0.5 percent from the total national tax for improved awareness-raising campaigns and stronger enforcement mechanisms”.

  • Fed Govt to protect workers from hazards, others in work place

    Fed Govt to protect workers from hazards, others in work place

    The Federal Government has pledged to to protect the nation’s workforce from hazards and risks associated with their jobs.

    The government said it said would implement policies and practices that prioritise workers’ safety, health, and well-being.

    Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Nyamali John stated this during the maiden Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Summit in Abuja yesterday.

    He said: “As we all know, Nigeria is experiencing rapid industrialisation, urbanisation, and expansion across multiple sectors. However, with this growth comes the responsibility to protect our workforce from hazards and risks associated with their jobs.

    Read Also: Lagos sensitises workers to pension

    “The statistics surrounding workplace accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases remind us of the urgency of this task. We must implement policies and practices that prioritize our workers’ safety, health, and well-being. This summit is the beginning of a collaborative journey towards creating safe and healthy working environments for all Nigerians.

    “Our vision is clear: to create a Nigeria where every worker returns home safely at the end of each day, where occupational hazards are minimised, and where workplace wellness is integrated into the national consciousness. The solutions we seek will require cooperation, innovation, and a steadfast commitment from all of us-employers, employees, regulators, and policymakers.”

    John said the summit was designed to foster dialogue and collaboration that would shape the nation’s future of workplace safety.

    Country Director of the International Labour Organisation, Vanessa Phala said that globally, more than 3 million workers die each year due to occupational accidents and diseases, with more than 395 million non-fatal work accidents.

    Phala commended the federal government for ratifying Conventions C155 (on occupational safety and health) and C187 (on the promotional framework for OSH) which have become the fundamental conventions.

    “Despite the efforts already made, the work on occupational safety and health remains immense, hence the need to strengthen the mobilization of all OHS stakeholders in promotion and advocacy initiatives like this maiden national summit on OSH in Nigeria,” she said.

  • Why Bauchi government should invest more in education – UNICEF

    Why Bauchi government should invest more in education – UNICEF

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged the Bauchi state government to invest more in primary education to reduce the number of out-of-school children.

    The Country Representative of the U.N Agency in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, made the statement on Monday during her visit to Gyamzo Central Primary School in Toro Local Government Area of the State.

    She reiterated the need for the government  to increase its funding in the education sector to ensure more children have access to quality learning.

    Our correspondent reports that the Country Representative was in the state to  assess UNICEF’s intervention programs. 

    Expressing concern over the state of the schools, Munduate highlighted the challenges facing the education sector in Toro LGA, which has over 138,000 primary school-aged children and only about 380 schools. 

    Read Also: Bayelsa partners UNICEF, WHO, others, launches maternal newborn child health week

    Munduate pointed out the gap in planning, asking critical questions about how many of these children are actually able to attend school.

    She noted that while some children are enrolled, many classrooms remain empty due to a lack of teachers, inadequate facilities, and, in some cases, security issues.

     “We are making an urgent and serious call to the state authorities to visit schools across the LGAs and see the conditions firsthand. 

    “They need to understand the situation and why so many children are unable to get the education they deserve,” Munduate said.

    She further explained that UNICEF’s role is not to take over government responsibilities but to complement and support existing efforts. 

    The Country Representative emphasised the importance of public awareness urging citizens to advocate for increased government investment in education. 

    “People need to understand the importance of allocating more resources to educate their children,” she added.

    During the visit, she also distributed 21 tablets loaded with educational materials and linked them to the Nigeria Learning Passport platform.

  • Environmental crimes cost Africa $195 billion annually 

    Environmental crimes cost Africa $195 billion annually 

    Adedoyin Adeleke, Executive Director of Green Growth Africa Sustainability Network, has revealed that environmental crimes cost Africa approximately $195 billion each year—an amount ten times greater than Nigeria’s annual national budget.

    Adeleke emphasized that over 70% of people in sub-Saharan Africa rely on forests and woodlands for food and livelihoods, making them particularly vulnerable to the escalating threat of environmental crimes. 

    According to him, “these crimes jeopardize food security, jobs, and income for millions, with the crime rate continuing to rise annually.”

    Adeleke made these statements during the unveiling and groundbreaking ceremony for the fight against environmental crimes and violations in Abuja. 

    He noted that while these acts are often referred to as crimes against the environment, they should more accurately be described as crimes against humanity, given their far-reaching economic and social consequences.

    Read Also: Nigeria ranks second among Africa’s top 10 countries with highest number of AI firms in 2024

    According to him, “These illicit activities not only devastate ecosystems and the lives of millions of Africans dependent on ecosystem services but also fuel corruption, promote money laundering, and weaken the rule of law. 

    “Together as a nation and continent, we can combat environmental crimes, restore dignity to those whose livelihoods depend on Africa’s natural resources, and create a just, equitable, and prosperous Africa. As we reflect on 2024 and prepare for the year2025, let us recall all the devastating event that serves as a sobering reminder of our collective responsibility to combat unlawful environmental activities.

    “Environmental crimes have emerged as the world’s fourth largest form of organised crime, trailing only drug trafficking, counterfeiting, and human trafficking, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Africa is blessed with rich biodiversity and natural resources, a quarter of the world’s mammal species, one-fifth of the world’s bird species, and one-sixth of the world’s remaining forests call Africa home”.

    Sadly, out of the abundant biodiversity coupled with endemic poverty, weak regulatory frameworks, and low risks of detection and conviction makes Africa a prime target for illegal mining, wildlife trafficking, illegal logging, hazardous waste dumping, and other environmental violations. These violations are concentrated in remote and marginalised communities, areas often beyond the reach of conventional security, government, and even the media.

  • Credicorp, NADDC sign N20bn MOU fund for locally assembled automobiles

    Credicorp, NADDC sign N20bn MOU fund for locally assembled automobiles

    The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CrediCorp) and the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch a N20 billion consumer credit fund aimed at making it easier for Nigerians to purchase locally manufactured vehicles on credit.

    CrediCorp’s Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Uzoma Nwagba, emphasized that the initiative seeks to eliminate barriers to accessing credit, enabling Nigerians to acquire new locally produced vehicles and digital devices. 

    He shared these insights during the MOU signing ceremony in Abuja, adding that the government’s investment in this program is a strategic move, with the potential for further phases contingent on the success of the first.

    Nwagba highlighted NADDC’s pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the car loan program. 

    He said that under the arrangement, eligible individuals will receive vehicles, not cash, with payments made directly to the car dealers. 

    Repayment will be arranged through these dealers, with car manufacturers delivering the vehicles to loan recipients.

    In his remarks, Nwagba noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is keen on reviving the Peugeot and Dunlop brands in Nigeria, underscoring the administration’s focus on boosting the automotive sector. He further stressed that the CrediCorp initiative is not limited to automobiles, with other sectors set to benefit.

    Joseph Osanipin, Director-General of NADDC, called the agreement a significant step in supporting Nigeria’s automotive industry. 

    He explained that the scheme aims to ensure Nigerians can access credit for new cars and motorbikes, but with the critical condition that they be locally manufactured.

    Osanipin acknowledged the importance of timing, stating that “it is better late than never,” and emphasized that the scheme aligns with President Tinubu’s economic stimulus agenda.