The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • You’re a nation builder: Gwarzo hails Abba at 63

    You’re a nation builder: Gwarzo hails Abba at 63

    The President of the MAAUN Group of Universities, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has congratulated Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, on the his 63rd birthday, describing him as a committed nation builder with a clear vision for progress.

    Gwarzo conveyed this message in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Sunday. 

    He praised Yusuf’s leadership style and achievements, noting that his performance within just two years in office has been both credible and commendable.

    According to him, the Governor’s achievements are a clear testimony to his vision, dedication, and unwavering focus on moving Kano State forward. He emphasized that Governor Yusuf’s commitment to good governance, people-oriented policies, and sustainable development is evident across critical sectors of the state.

    Read Also: Gwarzo mourns Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, condoles family, Bauchi Govt

    “Your clear vision and steadfast commitment to the people of Kano are visible to all. In just two years, you have recorded remarkable achievements that speak volumes of your passion for service and your love for the state,” Professor Gwarzo stated. “This is true patriotism and genuine nation building.”

    He further acknowledged the Governor’s efforts in restoring public confidence in governance and inspiring hope among the people through purposeful leadership and inclusive policies.

    “On behalf of my family and the entire MAAUN Group of Universities,I warmly congratulate you on your 63rd birthday. I wish you good health, wisdom, and many more years of impactful service to Kano State and the nation at large,” he stated. 

  • Foundation hails Wike over fresh push to tackle waste crisis

    Foundation hails Wike over fresh push to tackle waste crisis

    A non governmental organisation, Crux Environmental Right, Advocacy and Development Foundation, (CERADF) has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for what it described as decisive steps to curb environmental degradation and poor waste management in Abuja.

    The foundation gave the commendation following the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) move to provide dedicated telephone lines for residents to report cases of uncleared refuse across the territory.

    In a statement on Monday jointly signed by its, Country Director, Mercy Julius Iviakpellas and Director of Communications, Eswati Luka Ikpi, Crux said the initiative demonstrated the Wike-led administration’s commitment to environmental sanitation, accountability and citizen participation in governance.

    “The decision to open direct communication channels for residents to report waste management failures is a practical and people-centred approach to tackling the refuse menace in the FCT,” the group said, urging residents to take advantage of the platform to keep their environment clean.

    Read Also: 2027: Rivers APC in Ahoada West pledges loyalty to Wike

    The FCTA had earlier announced four telephone numbers for reporting waste issues as part of efforts to compel waste management contractors to carry out their duties effectively.

    In a brief statement, the Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, urged residents to send pictures and videos of uncleared refuse via WhatsApp, clearly stating the location to enable authorities identify defaulting contractors.

    According to Olayinka, the initiative is aimed at addressing the growing waste problem in the nation’s capital and strengthening oversight of contractors responsible for refuse evacuation.

    Crux Environmental Right, Advocacy and Development Foundation called on the FCTA to sustain the momentum and ensure strict sanctions for contractors who fail to meet agreed standards, noting that a cleaner Abuja is critical to public health and the image of the capital city.

  • Uba Sani commends Army’s role in securing Kaduna at WASA 2025

    Uba Sani commends Army’s role in securing Kaduna at WASA 2025

    Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Division for their gallantry and commitment in combating insecurity, saying their efforts have significantly improved peace and stability across Kaduna State and neighbouring areas.

    The governor gave the commendation at the weekend during the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA) of the 1 Division, held at the 2 Battalion Parade Ground, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna.

    Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, the Governor described WASA as a cherished military tradition that not only marks the end of a year’s training and operational activities, but also provides an opportunity for officers, soldiers, their families, and civilians to bond and celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

    He said the performance of the 1 Division in the past year had been impressive, particularly in the fight against kidnapping, cattle rustling, and armed banditry, noting that the successes recorded had a direct positive impact on the security of Kaduna State.

    The governor specifically praised the Division’s collaboration with other security agencies under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which he said had strengthened joint security efforts and enhanced safety across the state.

    He assured the Army of the state government’s continued support in 2026, urging troops to remain focused, professional, and resilient in the face of emerging security challenges, while sustaining their commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

    Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Mohammed Wase said WASA remained an important annual event that showcased the Army’s rich traditions and cultural diversity.

    Maj.-Gen. Wase explained that the celebration marked the successful conclusion of the Division’s 2025 training and operational activities, adding that a series of social, cultural, musical, and regimental displays had been lined up to entertain guests.

    Read Also: NYCN seeks criminalisation of ransom payments to end kidnappings in Nigeria

    He disclosed that the 2025 training directives for the Division were effectively executed with a high level of professionalism and regimentation, despite some operational challenges.

    According to him, joint operations carried out under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in collaboration with other security agencies, drastically reduced security threats within the Division’s area of responsibility, particularly crimes related to banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling.

    The GOC noted that WASA also provided an opportunity for the public to better appreciate the diverse customs and traditions of barracks communities, which he described as a melting pot of cultures and social backgrounds.

    He used the occasion to pay tribute to fallen soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in the defence of Nigeria’s peace and unity, praying for eternal rest for their souls and strength for their families.

    Maj.-Gen. Wase thanked Governor Uba Sani for his unwavering support to the Division and other security agencies, as well as the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. W. Shaibu, for his leadership and guidance in strengthening professionalism within the Nigerian Army.

    The event attracted top military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, and families of serving personnel, who were treated to colourful cultural performances and displays celebrating Nigeria’s diversity.

  • Kaduna flags off enlightenment programme for 2026 Hajj intending pilgrims 

    Kaduna flags off enlightenment programme for 2026 Hajj intending pilgrims 

    The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency (KSPWA) has flagged off its Public Enlightenment Programme, popularly known as BITA, as part of preparations for the 2026 Hajj operations.

    The programme was officially launched at the Kinkinau Qur’anic Recitation Centre in Kaduna, at the weekend, marking the commencement of intensive sensitisation for intending pilgrims across the state.

    Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of the Agency, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, represented by the Administrative Secretary, Malam Baba Rufa’i, described BITA as a critical component of the Agency’s Hajj planning process.

    He said the enlightenment programme is designed to educate and properly prepare intending pilgrims spiritually, physically and administratively for the sacred journey to the Holy Land.

    According to him, the programme will cover key areas including Hajj rites and obligations, health and safety measures, Saudi Arabian laws and regulations, discipline, patience, good conduct, as well as unity and cooperation among pilgrims.

    Abubakar stressed that a well-informed pilgrim is a successful pilgrim, noting that the initiative is aimed at reducing mistakes, eliminating confusion and ensuring full compliance with established Hajj guidelines.

    He reiterated that the welfare of Kaduna State pilgrims remains the top priority of the present administration, assuring that the Agency is committed to delivering a safe, comfortable and spiritually rewarding Hajj experience.

    Read Also: 974 Nigerians awaits deportation from Canada

    The Chairman also disclosed that the ongoing reconstruction of the Kaduna State Hajj Transit Camp at Mando is progressing steadily and will be completed before the commencement of the 2026 Hajj operations.

    He explained that upon completion, the camp will meet modern and international standards, with improved accommodation, enhanced sanitation, better medical services and a more organised environment for pilgrims.

    Abubakar expressed gratitude to Governor Uba Sani for his support and commitment to pilgrims’ welfare, while urging intending pilgrims to take the BITA sessions seriously and adhere strictly to all guidelines, even as he commended Islamic scholars, facilitators and media partners for their support.

  • We love you, Adamawa’s Hong people celebrate Hananiya at 84

    We love you, Adamawa’s Hong people celebrate Hananiya at 84

    The people of Hong, one of the most prominent local government areas in Adamawa State, have celebrated one of their foremost living legends, Major General Haldu Hananiya (rtd), on his 84th birthday. 

    General Hananiya, as the people fondly call him, made a huge impart on the Hong people, beginning from while he reigned as the first military general from the area and later while he served as two-time chief executive of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) when he reportedly always remembered where he came from.

    Chairman of the Civic Reception for General Hananiya, Maj Gen Harris Dzarma (rtd), described Hananiya as a symbol of development who did his roots proud while serving at the national level.

    “This is a celebration of integrity and sacrifice,” Dzarma said of Hananiya’s birthday event which took place at the Palace of the Hong paramount ruler, adding that Hananiya is a distinguished son of the soil who has done much for its development, including his more recent contribution to the creation of the Huba Chiefdom.

    A former minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Aliyu Idi Hong, said Hananiya is one of the many generals of note from whom Nigeria should tap knowledge and wise counsel in its fight against insecurity.

    Read Also: NAF sustains airstrikes, cripples terrorists in Northeast, Northwest

    “There is a lot that we should do as a nation to address insecurity but which we are not doing, such as working closely with our retired generals and former warlords on ways to deal with the bandits and other criminal elements terrorising us today,” Idi Hong said.

    Adamawa Speaker, Bathiya Wesley, who is incidentally from Hong, said Hananiya is a mentor who should be celebrated over the many lives he has touched.

    The paramount ruler of Hong people, the Tol Huba, Alheri Nyako, said Hananiya is a model of unity and progress that the Hong Chiefdom felt compelled to honour. 

    A daughter of the soil who attended Hananiya’s birthday, Dr Haphsat Modibbo, said the retired general is a father of all who has done so much for his people and whom the people need to celebrate.

    In his response, the celebrant thanked the Hong paramount ruler and all the people for the birthday initiative and prayed that the chiefdom and all the people would continue to experience greatness.

  • Kogi assures residents of safety

    Kogi assures residents of safety

    The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to a sustained crackdown on criminal elements across the state, assuring residents that decisive efforts are ongoing to restore peace and rescue abducted victims.

    The assurance was given on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, who disclosed that security agencies were actively tracking the whereabouts of criminals, with major operations already underway to free victims from captivity.

    According to him, the government fully understands the trauma faced by families of kidnapped persons and remains deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of all victims.

    Read Also: Youths protest killings, other criminal activities in Kogi communities

    “We understand the trauma faced by the families of kidnapped victims. We are also very concerned about their well-being. The Governor has invested heavily in ensuring the state possesses the capacity to crush criminal elements,” Fanwo said.

    He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support, as well as the National Security Adviser, Service Chiefs, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, the Inspector General of Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for their relentless backing in the fight against crime in Kogi State.

    Fanwo noted that the Governor is currently investing more in preventive security measures, stressing that the government remains determined to ensure the rescue of every Kogite in the hands of criminals.

  • Group condemns alleged attack on women protesters in Kwara

    Group condemns alleged attack on women protesters in Kwara

    A human rights group, Womanifesto, has condemned the alleged violent attack on women who staged a peaceful protest at the Kwara State Government House in Ilorin, calling for urgent action over worsening insecurity in Oke-Ode, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.

    The condemnation was contained in a press release issued by the group’s co-convener, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, who described the assault as unjustified and deeply troubling.

    Akiyode-Afolabi said the women were neither criminals nor political actors, but wives, mothers, and caregivers seeking answers over the abduction of their husbands and children, some of whom have remained in captivity for months without meaningful government intervention. She described the protest as a desperate call for protection and justice.

    She reiterated that peaceful protest is a constitutional right of every Nigerian citizen, stressing that any attack on individuals exercising this right, particularly within the premises of a government institution, amounts to a grave indictment of the state and raises serious concerns about women’s safety and the government’s responsibility to protect citizens.

    While acknowledging the Kwara State Governor’s swift public statement distancing himself from the attack, Akiyode-Afolabi said condemnation without accountability was insufficient and could embolden perpetrators.

    She disclosed that Womanifesto was in direct contact with some of the affected women, who recounted experiences of harassment, humiliation and physical assault, noting that such treatment was unacceptable in a democratic society and must be addressed decisively.

    The group issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Kwara State Government, demanding a public explanation detailing how and why peaceful women protesters were attacked at the Government House.

    The association further demanded clear government commitments to prevent a recurrence, protect women, protesters and vulnerable communities across the state, and urgent action to address insecurity in Oke-Ode, including transparent updates on efforts to rescue abducted persons and support affected families.

    Akiyode-Afolabi warned that failure to hold those responsible accountable would allow a pattern of violence to persist, leaving women, who are already disproportionately affected by insecurity, to suffer in silence.

    “Womanifesto stands firmly with the women of Oke-Ode and all Nigerian women who courageously demand safety, dignity, and justice. We will continue to monitor this case closely and engage relevant authorities. Failure to act within the stipulated 14 days will compel us to escalate our advocacy through all lawful and democratic means available.

    “The brutalisation of women seeking help is unacceptable. Silence is not an option. Accountability is non-negotiable,” it added.

  • Group commends Lawal’s security push in Zamfara, rejects calls to revive Yari-Era policies

    Group commends Lawal’s security push in Zamfara, rejects calls to revive Yari-Era policies

    The Arewa Coalition for Peace, Reform and Good Governance (ACPRGG) has commended Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, for what it described as deliberate, courageous and reform-driven efforts to address the state’s deep-rooted security challenges, arguing that the current administration inherited a collapsed security architecture from years of failed leadership.

    In a statement issued on Friday in Kaduna, the group’s president, Alhaji Sadiq Mahmoud, said Governor Lawal deserved support rather than criticism for confronting an insecurity crisis that had been allowed to fester under previous administrations, particularly during the tenure of former governor Abdul’aziz Yari.

    Mahmoud said recent incidents, including the suspected bomb explosion along the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau road in Maru Local Government Area, should be viewed within the broader context of long-standing governance failures that predated the Lawal administration.

    He stressed that the current governor was not responsible for creating Zamfara’s insecurity, describing the situation as the result of years of negligence, poor policy decisions and short-sighted strategies that empowered armed groups, weakened state institutions and normalised violence.

    The group dismissed calls for Governor Lawal to revert to security strategies deployed during Yari’s administration, describing those approaches as ineffective and largely responsible for the spread and entrenchment of armed groups across the state’s forests and rural communities.

    Mahmoud said the so-called strategies of the past neither defeated banditry nor protected communities, noting that armed groups expanded, weapons proliferated and residents were left vulnerable to criminal elements. 

    He added that Zamfara’s security crisis did not emerge overnight and did not originate under the current administration.

    Read Also: Zamfara: First Lady gifts 250 senior citizens N200,000 each  

    According to the ACPRGG, Governor Lawal has adopted a more structured and sustainable approach, with an emphasis on intelligence-led operations, collaboration with federal security agencies and rebuilding trust between communities and the state.

    The group noted that the governor has maintained consistent engagement with security chiefs and traditional rulers, while prioritising reforms aimed at addressing the economic and social drivers of violence.

    Mahmoud also defended the governor against criticism over his movements outside the state, arguing that effective security leadership goes beyond physical presence and includes high-level coordination with federal authorities and security institutions.

    He said security governance was about strategy, coordination and long-term planning, adding that Governor Lawal had demonstrated a clear understanding of these principles while working to reverse years of systemic damage.

    The group urged residents to remain patient and vigilant, stressing that resolving a decade-long security crisis would require time, consistency and collective support. It also cautioned against politicising insecurity or promoting narratives that absolve past leaders of responsibility.

    Mahmoud said meaningful progress would be impossible without an honest assessment of past failures, insisting that the insecurity confronting Zamfara today was the outcome of ineffective leadership under previous administrations.

    As investigations continue into the Maru road explosion, the group called for unity, cooperation with security agencies and sustained support for Governor Lawal’s efforts, maintaining that lasting peace can only be achieved through accountable governance and credible reform.

  • Makarfi urges unity, action on insecurity, economic hardship in New Year message

    Makarfi urges unity, action on insecurity, economic hardship in New Year message

    Former Kaduna State Governor, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, has called on Nigerians to remain united and resilient as the country enters the year 2026, urging governments at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity and economic hardship.

    In a New Year message, Makarfi said the outgoing year tested the patience and endurance of Nigerians amid rising economic challenges, insecurity, and widespread uncertainty across the country.

    He said the New Year offers an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen their collective resolve to confront the nation’s challenges together, stressing that unity and shared purpose remain critical to national progress.

    The former governor described Nigeria’s diversity in human and material resources as its greatest endowment, noting that when properly harnessed, it can rekindle hope and reinforce national cohesion.

    According to him, diversity should serve as a tool for mutual respect and sustained dialogue, enabling citizens to deploy their varied skills and expertise toward building a nation worthy of pride for present and future generations.

    Makarfi appealed to governments at all levels to scale up efforts aimed at decisively addressing all forms of insecurity, while also introducing policies to ease the economic burdens facing citizens.

    He prayed for a 2026 marked by renewed unity and peace, improved security, economic recovery, and greater opportunities, urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith and optimism for the country’s future.

  • New salary package for 11,300 Zamfara imams, clerics 

    New salary package for 11,300 Zamfara imams, clerics 

    A total of 11,300 Friday prayers imams and other clerics would enjoy salary upgrade, the state Zamfara State Government has said.

    The salary upgrade would begin from January 2026.

    Governor Dauda Lawal who made the pledge, said this was part his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the clerics in the state.

    Governor Lawal revealed that the state pay N81.8 million every month as salaries of Islamic clerics and Juma’at Imams including cleaners of the mosques. 

    “The report for the integrated E-Payment system recommended that your salaries be upgraded and I assure you, from January 2026, we will do that, for your comfort”

    Governor Lawal urged the religious leaders to observe ‘Al-Qunut (special prayers) during each of the five daily prayers for God’ s intervention in ending the security challenges in the state.

    “I urged you, if possible start making special supplications in each of your daily prayers for Allah’s intervention to uncover anybody that contributed to fuel the menace of banditry in Zamfara either directly or indirectly” he said.