The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Wike launches ‘Project 10 Million’ to combat rising non-communicable diseases in Abuja

    Wike launches ‘Project 10 Million’ to combat rising non-communicable diseases in Abuja

    …targets 250,000 residents, 200 communities for free hypertension, diabetes screening 

    The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), through its Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), has launched a health initiative to address the rising cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Abuja.

    During the flag-off of “Project 10 Million,” which aims to screen 250,000 residents across 200 communities, HSES Mandate Secretary Adedolapo Fasawe highlighted the administration’s commitment to providing vulnerable and low-income residents with free screenings and treatments over a four-week period.

    Fasawe pointed out that high blood pressure affects one in 27 Nigerians, with the North Central region carrying the highest burden. 

    She said many affected individuals are unaware of their condition, which can lead to sudden complications and even unexpected deaths.

    She further emphasized that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has been proactive in addressing healthcare challenges for residents, introducing several initiatives prior to Project 10 Million. 

    The project is funded by the Committee of Health Commissioners, with support from the Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

    Affirming the unwavering commitment of the Wike-led FCTA to accessible and affordable healthcare services, Fasawe said, “With Project 10 Million, the FCTA aims to set a new benchmark in community-centred healthcare by promoting preventive care and reaching underserved populations across Abuja.

    “Healthcare delivery in the FCT has significantly improved under Minister Wike, as evidenced by reports from the screened civil servants.   

    Read Also: Tinubu approves people-oriented projects in area councils – Wike

    Working under Wike’s leadership emphasizes an active lifestyle, helping to reduce the risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases.”

    She said the FCT had a similar program to Project 10 Million that has been ongoing, “We had the medical palliative program whereby we gave people medicines for free for whatever their ailment is, for one month, so that the money they would have used to buy medicines they will use for other things

    “We encourage registration on the Health Insurance scheme whereby a token is paid to access free health care services for the year, while those considered vulnerable poor are registered for free”. 

    She explained the motivation behind the Project 10 Million initiative, saying, “We started noticing that more people are slumping and dying with the rate of non-communicable diseases (NDCs) going high. 

    “We were focusing a lot on HIV, malaria, tuberculosis but all of a sudden younger people are dropping dead while older people who are otherwise well in the morning will slump in the afternoon.

    “At post-mortem, we realized that people had undiagnosed heart diseases which is a complication of untreated hypertension. 

    “Hypertension is a very treatable disease if caught early, diabetes is a very treatable disease if caught early. Treatable in the sense that if one adheres to the doctor’s instructions and takes the medication as prescribed, one is blind to live a normal life. 

    “Out of every 27 Nigerians one person is hypertensive. This is recorded. 

    “Now we are trying to look for all those people, educate them, give them medication so that their quality of life, output at work and in the end the GDP of the nation will be improved because, with this Renewed Hope Agenda, we constantly look for ways to reach the people, touch them.

    Fasawe highlighted that the project will cover all six area councils and target hard-to-reach communities, ensuring that urban and rural residents alike have access to these critical services. 

    “The essence of this program also is that people find it hard to leave their workplace where they get money, their markets, their farms to go to hospitals to check, that is why we are taking this Project 10 million to the doorsteps of people where they live, where they work, where they play. 

    “We will be in every Area Council, we will be in most chiefdoms, palaces, we will be in markets, we will be in places like this where people aggregate and the good news is it will run for one week. 

    “I believe at the end of this, that saying ‘Health is wealth’ will truly be understood because without good health we cannot enjoy the beautiful infrastructure that the FCT is putting on daily,” Fasawe added.

  • Save the Children makes case for implementation of Child Rights Act

    Save the Children makes case for implementation of Child Rights Act

    Humanitarian organisation, Save the Children International has called for the full implementation of the Child Rights Act in the country.

    County Director of the organisation, Duncan Harvey urged both the Federal and State governments to prioritise and ensure the full implementation of the rights and privileges that every Nigerian child was entitled to enjoy.

    He made the call in Abuja during the closing ceremony of a two-day capacity building and sitting of the 7th National Children’s Parliament (NCP) put together by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with Save the Children International.

    Harvey said the organisation was committed to eliminating various forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violations of children’s rights across the country.

    He noted that critical issues such as early, child, and forced marriages, child labor, abduction, and school dropout rates, which undermined children’s dignity, potential, and future.

    According to him, these issues contradicted the Child Rights Act (2003) and the Child Protection Law which have been adopted by all state in the country.

    He stated: “In principle, violence against children is preventable, when governments, civil societies, communities, and individuals unite with a shared vision and commitment, children can be protected from all forms of violence, harmful practices, and abuses, enabling them to achieve their full potential.”

    Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Gabriel Aduda, underscored the ministry’s deliberate efforts to promote children’s rights to participation adding that the importance of involving children in discussions on matters affecting their well-being, as it empowers them to speak out and reduces the culture of silence surrounding sensitive issues.

    The permanent secretary, who was represented by the Director, Child Development in the ministry, Ali Madugu also said the very exercise of promoting child participation was one of the core principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which asserted that children and young people have the right to freely express their views and that there was “an obligation on us as adult and policy makers to listen to children’s views and to facilitate their participation in all matters affecting them in accordance with article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child which the Child Rights Act, 2003 upholds.”

    He added: “The participation of children in decision-making is a core principle of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, it emphasizes children’s rights to freely express their views and obligates policymakers to listen and facilitate their participation in all matters affecting them.”

    Speaker of the 7th National Children’s Parliament (NCP), Rt. Hon. Progress Umoh, stressed the parliament’s resolution to ensure the safety of Nigerian children both in and outside of school.

    She pledged to collaborate with governmental and non-governmental organisations to eliminate harmful practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and tribal marks through awareness campaigns in rural areas.

    Read Also: Save the Children laments impact of floods on schools

    The speaker called on the government, traditional rulers, international community and the Nigerian public to safeguard the rights of children as the government cannot do it alone.

    She said: “We urge everyone to protect and safeguard the rights of children such that they are safe, not being afraid to walk on the streets or being afraid of kidnap or molestation, and whereby child labour is eliminated “

    She stated that at the end of the meeting they intend to work with relevant actors on how best to implement the Child Rights Act especially in the rural communities with little or no awareness about the Act.

  • ILO, others advocate responsible business practices

    ILO, others advocate responsible business practices

    The International Labour Organisation (ILO); the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), and the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) have launched a strategic initiative to enhance the adoption of Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) in Nigeria.

    The joint effort, unveiled during a workshop in Abuja, aims to foster sustainable and responsible business practices, key to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8, which focuses on decent work and economic growth.

    The workshop is part of ILO’s ongoing efforts to promote the MNE Declaration, a global commitment to fostering responsible business conduct.

    Speaking at the event, ILO Country Director for Nigeria, Vanessa Phala emphasised the need to broaden the concept of business performance beyond financial outcomes.

    She further highlighted the growing focus on human rights, particularly in areas like fair wages, safe working conditions, and the elimination of child labour.

    She said: “We have moved from viewing business success solely through a financial lens to recognising the importance of sustainability, community commitment, and environmental responsibility.

    “Businesses must be accountable not only for their financial success but also for their social and environmental impacts.”

    She emphasised that RBC is essential to achieving the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda, which ensures respect for workers’ rights, occupational health, safety, and fair wages.

    Director General of NECA, Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde noted that the principle of responsible business conduct has always been central to global business standards, though it is now gaining more attention.

    “While profit is crucial, we must also be mindful of how we achieve that profit,” he said. “Responsible business conduct goes beyond compliance, it places workers, human rights, and environmental considerations at the heart of business operations,” he stated.

    Read Also: Oba Elerinmo offers endowment grant for University of Ilorin’s best social science graduate

    He noted that NECA has long advocated for responsible enterprise, saying: “this renewed focus aims to ensure that more businesses operate ethically and sustainably. It’s a collective effort. Employers, workers, unions, the government, and civil society must all play their part in creating an environment that supports decent work.”

    He said that RBC is not just an employer’s responsibility but a collaborative effort involving the government, employees, and other stakeholders.

    The NECA DG also pointed out the role of government in creating an enabling environment for businesses, while workers and unions should hold both employers and government accountable when standards are not met.

  • Nigeria gets it right with Yilwatda as Humanitarian Affairs Minister – Group

    Nigeria gets it right with Yilwatda as Humanitarian Affairs Minister – Group

    Professor Nentawe Yilwatda’s appointment as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has been hailed as a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s humanitarian challenges. 

    The Coalition of Lawyers for Truth and Justice (CLTJ) hailed President Bola Tinubu for Yilwatda’s nomination as strategic to uplift Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens.

    In a statement by Barrister Moses Okino, the group said Yilwatda’s impressive credentials, including a PhD in Digital Systems Engineering, make him an outstanding fit for the role. 

    Okino added that his passion for humanitarian work is evident in his previous projects such as Nigeria’s first Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and the World Bank-funded STEP-B project.

    According to Okino, his penchant for uplifting marginalised communities, particularly Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), is evident in his previous projects, including setting up schools for IDP children and empowering IDP women through skill acquisition programs.

    “Unlike his predecessors, Betta Edu and Sadiya Farouq, who faced numerous controversies during their tenures, Yilwatda’s appointment brings a sense of hope and renewal,” he said. 

    “Edu and Farouq were embroiled in scandals, including allegations of mismanagement and corruption, which hindered the ministry’s effectiveness. 

    “In contrast, Yilwatda’s track record of transparency and accountability, demonstrated during his time as Resident Electoral Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), inspires confidence in his ability to lead the ministry with integrity. 

    “As Nigeria faces numerous humanitarian challenges, including food insecurity, disease outbreaks, and displacement, Yilwatda’s expertise and commitment to humanitarian work are crucial in addressing these pressing issues.

    “The CLTJ believes that Prof. Yilwatda’s appointment will bring significant positive change to Nigeria’s humanitarian landscape. His expertise in digital systems engineering and electronic governance will undoubtedly enhance the Ministry’s impact. 

    “We commend President Tinubu for this thoughtful appointment and pledge our support for Prof. Yilwatda as he embarks on this critical mission.

    Read Also: Senate screens Bianca Ojukwu, Yilwatda, five other ministerial nominees on Tuesday

    “Prof. Yilwatda’s achievements are a shining example of dedication to public service. His commitment to humanitarian work, support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), development of voting frameworks for People Living with Disabilities (PWD), and engagement with the Nigerian Diaspora demonstrate his unwavering resolve to uplift the vulnerable.

    “As Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Yilwatda will play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens. 

    “We urge him to continue his exemplary work, leveraging his expertise to drive meaningful change. The CLTJ are confident that Prof. Yilwatda’s expertise, passion, and leadership will usher in a new era of hope and progress for Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens.

    “We urge all Nigerians to join us in congratulating Prof. Yilwatda on this well-deserved appointment.

    Together, we can build a Nigeria where everyone has access to opportunities and a better life,” the ground added. 

  • 19 monarchs resign positions in Sokoto, back Lamido

    19 monarchs resign positions in Sokoto, back Lamido

    Few weeks after the District Head of Sabon Birni, Alhaji Abdullahi Muhammad Bawa, tendered his resignation letter, nineteen more traditional rulers on Sunday announced their resignation.

    Bawa’s resignation letter shows he resigned his position as district head of Sabon Birni with effect from 16 October 2024.

    The letter which he personally signed reads in parts: “I was appointed district head of Sabon Birni on July 15, 2014 and I resigned my position to join the political wagon of Senator Ibrahim Lamido.

    The resigning monarchs, from Sabon Birni local government area of Sokoto state, comprised of district and ward heads.

    The resigned traditional rulers vowed to support only politicians that are committed to the wellbeing of their constituents.

    Read Also: Northern forum tackles Sule Lamido over calls for Matawalle’s removal

    They clearly declared their support for Senator Ibrahim Lamido, an illustrious son of the Seat of the Caliphate, for his good deeds.

    Hitherto ward head of Taka-Tsaba, Alhaji Lauwali Shuaibu, who addressed reporters on Sunday said: “We have tendered our resignation but nobody invited us to hear our grievances for the decision we have taken,” he said, apparently referring to the governor.

    Shuaibu explained that their decision was prompted by Senator Lamido’s commitment towards improving their wellbeing, noting that “the man is always to our rescue whenever bandits attack our people.”

    “Our support will encourage Sen. Lamido to continue with the good work he has been doing to our people,” he added.

    Another traditional ruler who also resigned his position, Alhaji Jamilu Gwanda Gobir, Ubandoman Sarkin Gobir, late Isa Muhammad Bawa, said “our decision is to salvage Gobir district.”

    “About 10 traditional rulers joined me in resigning their positions. I served the district as Ubandoma for nine years. Our positions are now vacant,” he said.

  • Senator Zangon Daura advances Nigeria’s interests, leadership in Africa

    Senator Zangon Daura advances Nigeria’s interests, leadership in Africa

    The Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD held a pivotal meeting with significant attendance from its members.

    During the meeting, Chairman Senator Nasiru Sani Zangon Daura presented the committee’s newly drafted work plan and responsibility matrix, which outlines key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) under the committee’s oversight, particularly those involved in Nigeria’s bilateral and multilateral engagements across the African continent.

    The committee also resolved on which MDAs to invite to its first public hearing scheduled for the coming weeks. 

    Senate Majority Whip and committee member, Senator Tahir Monguno, moved the motion for adoption after the Chairman’s presentation, which was unanimously adopted. Vice Chairman Senator Ezea Okechukwu, Senate Minority Whip Eze Kenneth Emeka, Chairman Appropriations Adeola Solomon Olamilekan, Senators Ned Munir Nwoko, Aminu Iya Abbas, Sunday Marshall Katung, Ibrahim Khalid Mustafa, Ngwu Osita, Satso Diket Plang, and Mustapha Khabeeb were also present and contributed to the deliberations.

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    This meeting sets the foundation for the committee’s oversight work in coordinating Nigeria’s economic, security, and financial cooperation efforts, as well as its engagement with the ECOWAS and African Union development frameworks. The adoption of the work plan is expected to streamline responsibilities and strengthen collaboration with relevant MDAs.

    After the meeting, Daura said the committee’s work would guide the executive on Nigeria’s strategic interests in Africa, as the country seeks to enhance regional integration and economic cooperation.

    The Katsina North legislator  emphasised the importance of the legislature being fully informed on agreements Nigeria has with its neighbours, to ensure effective oversight and protect national interests.

    Daura, who served three consecutive terms in the House of Representatives in the 7th, 8th and 9th National Assembly where he was Chairman House Committee on FRSC, Special Duties and Interior, also serves as the Vice Chairman on the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security.

  • Anglican Church commences planting of 2m trees

    Anglican Church commences planting of 2m trees

    *Begs Wike to take cattles off FCT streets

    The Anglican Church of Nigeria, Kubwa Diocese, Abuja has flagged off the campaign for planting of two million trees across the Federal Capital Territory to commemorate its 20th anniversary.

    The Lord Bishop of the Diocese, Rt. Rev Duke Akamisoko during the official launch tagged “Root for a Greaner Future” at St . Peter’s Church Karu said the tree planting was part of the activities to mark the 20th anniversary of the Diocese.

    He said it will reach its peak in March 2025 with the dedication of 250 Hospital beds, which is the day the Diocese was created.

    He noted that the mission is to plant the trees across 20 Archdeaconries across FCT and the houses of of their members, adding that planting trees is one of the most important things they can do to contribute to the health of the planet.

    This is even as he urged the FCT Minister, Nyesome Wike to help take roaming cows off the streets of Abuja and get them in ranches to stop them from destroying the trees planted and to ensure a cleaner environment.

    Bishop Akamisoko said the target is to cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility, create a legacy of sustainability and to ensure a greener future for all.

    Read Also: Before trees are felled in the forest

    He said: “Trees have significant role in human life and culture, providing food, shelter and resources. Today we gather to commence a transformative initiative that will shape the future of our Diocese, community and planet through the planting of fruit crops and flowers. 80 per cent of the trees we shall plant will be food trees.

    “Our tree planting campaign: ‘Rooting for Greener Future’ is a call to action, a commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship and the well-being of generations to come.”

    While noting that in their daily busy schedules they need a regular reminder of their connection with nature and planet, he said: “The health of our planet is essential to our own health and well-being and to our future, trees are essential part of it.”

    The Lord Bishop further explained that trees improve lives, help save energy filter the air, prevent flooding, reduce noise pollution and provide hospitable place for animals to live and other plants to grow.

    He noted that with unprecedented environmental challenges in the society such as climate change threatening the ecosystem and economies among others , he said the church has the power to create change by planting trees to combat them.

    He however, called on other religious body, individuals, educational institutions, government agencies and NGOs to join the initiative by volunteering to plant trees, donate resources and spread awareness.

    To the members, he asked them to do all they can to protect the trees as no excuse would be accepted for failure to do so, adding that they will commence monitoring of the projects from January 2025 to ensure the trees are doing well.

  • Cabinet reshuffle: Group praises Matawalle, Keyamo for outstanding performances

    Cabinet reshuffle: Group praises Matawalle, Keyamo for outstanding performances

    The National Democratic Front (NDF) has welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle, urging ministers to continue their outstanding work and build on the progress achieved so far.

    The group specifically commended Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo for their exceptional performances, which have contributed significantly to the administration’s success.

    In a statement by Dr. Bolaji Abdullahi, the NDF said Matawalle’s leadership in combating insecurity is yielding tangible results and bolstering national stability and security.

    Abdullahi, meanwhile, said Keyamo has transformed Nigeria’s aerospace landscape and driven developmental projects, impacting infrastructure and economic growth.

    Other ministers, including Nyesom Wike, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Mohammad Abubakar, Professor Joseph Utsev, and Dave Umahi, were also praised for their notable contributions in their respective sectors.

    “We take this moment to commend the exceptional performances of Bello Matawalle and Festus Keyamo. Their tireless efforts, dedication, and unrelenting passion have significantly contributed to the administration’s resounding success, inspiring hope and confidence in the Nigerian people,” the statement said. 

    “Visibly, Matawalle has demonstrated exceptional leadership acumen, pragmatism, and hands-on expertise in combating insecurity. His dedication to national security has been exemplary, yielding tangible results that have bolstered national stability and security.

    Read Also: Banditry: Fed Govt clears, restates confidence in Matawalle

    “Matawalle’s proactive approach has effectively addressed critical security challenges, showcasing his capacity to drive transformative change. We encourage him to continue his excellent work, pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in defence management.

    “Keyamo has spearheaded innovative initiatives in the aviation sector, transforming Nigeria’s aerospace landscape and cementing his position as a visionary leader.

    “His commitment to developmental projects has positively impacted the nation’s infrastructure and economic growth, demonstrating his resolve to drive progress.

    “Ministers Nyesom Wike, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Mohammad Abubakar, Professor Joseph Utsev, and Dave Umahi have also stood out.”

    The group applauded President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s progress, citing his resolve to reshuffle the cabinet as a demonstration of his dedication to excellence.

    The NDF urged all ministers to emulate Matawalle and Keyamo’s exemplary performances, striving for excellence and making President Tinubu proud.

  • 200 Zamfara women get poultry resource

    200 Zamfara women get poultry resource

    British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) Foundation has launched a women empowerment initiative, giving five-week-old noiler birds to 200 women in Zamfara State.

    The project, it noted, fosters sustainable agriculture by enhancing rural livelihoods and alleviating poverty.

    The launch was attended by the governor’s wife, Hurriya Dauda Lawal, Commissioner for Agriculture, Ya’u Gamji, General Manager of BATN Foundation, Oludare Odusanya and others.

    Each got 20 noiler birds, feeds and multivitamins as support.

    The project, implemented by Eco-lead Imperial Engineering and Global Resources, also gave women tools.

    Mrs. Lawal noted importance of empowering women.

    Read Also: Investors raise long-term stakes on Nigeria’s economy

    She said: “Zamfara women are heart of our communities and empowering them is empowering our state. I thank BATNF for recognising our women and investing in their growth.”

    The commissioner emphasised significance of the project for the state’s agricultural development.

    He said: “This is a step towards sustainable food security and economic empowerment in Zamfara. By investing in women, we are touching families, communities, and our state. We appreciate BATN Foundation and look forward to continued collaboration to scale up and transform our communities.”

    Zamfara State government through the office of the First Lady, reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women and promoting agricultural development, building on the success of the project from BATNF which has empowered women farmers in the community and across the nation.

    Speaking at the event also, GM, BATN Foundation, highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative.

    “It is an honour to be here today to implement a project designed to empower women and enhance rural livelihoods in our beloved state. We firmly believe that by investing in resilient and enterprising women, we are planting the seeds for a brighter and more prosperous future for all in Zamfara State,” he said.

     “Poultry farming has emerged as a transformative enterprise, providing not only a sustainable income but also advancing food security and strengthening community cohesion. Our goal is to equip these women with the tools and knowledge to establish successful businesses that will benefit the broader community.”

    Odusanya reiterated the foundation’s commitment to the sustainability of the project by promising continuous support, including training and awareness programmes, to ensure the long-term success of the beneficiaries while calling for collaboration with likeminded organisations to expand its reach and make a lasting difference.

  • AWDROP’s new leadership pledges transparency, development in water well drilling sector

    AWDROP’s new leadership pledges transparency, development in water well drilling sector

    The newly elected President of the Association of Water Well Drilling Rig Owners and Practitioners (AWDROP), Prof. Ajeni Okunlola, has pledged to prioritize transparency and accountability in the association’s activities while driving development in Nigeria’s water well drilling sector.

    Prof. Okunlola outlined his vision during the association’s leadership handover ceremony in Abuja on Friday, where he emphasized the importance of capacity building for AWDROP members and the need for collaboration with the government and key stakeholders to advance the sector. 

    Outgoing President Michael Ale, who led the association, while highlighting past efforts to advocate for the interests of water well drilling practitioners across Nigeria, urged the new leadership to continue engaging with governmental bodies to address the nation’s water resource issues.

    Read Also: AWDROP partners govt to provide water for farmers, rural dwellers

    In his inaugural speech, Prof. Okunlola expressed his commitment to strengthening AWDROP’s institutional framework, fostering sustainable practices, and advocating for the water well drilling community. 

    He called on members to unite behind his leadership and work collectively to realize the association’s goals.

    He also noted that the ceremony which was attended by AWDROP members from across the country, underscored a shared commitment to advancing the association’s impact on Nigeria’s water sector.