The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • ‘How Fintiri is curtailing rural-urban drift’

    ‘How Fintiri is curtailing rural-urban drift’

    Media aides to Governor Ahmadu Fintiri have presented his scorecard, highlighting how he has significantly curtailed drift of people from the rural areas to urban centres, among other things.


    The aides, at their 3rd Quarter Media Parley in Yola on Friday, mentioned what they described as life-changing initiatives of Fintiri since he became Governor in 2019 that have conditioned the mind of people of the state to remain in rural areas and pursue their economic activities.


    According to the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, the last five years of the Fintiri administration have been a game changer. 

    “Fintiri has redefined the narratives of the state. We are glad now to proclaim that we are from Adamawa State,” Wonosikou said, adding that Fintiri is not an accidental governor but a man who was prepared to govern and who  came in with purpose. 

    “Even his colleague Governors wonder when they come here how Fintiri is doing his development projects. This is good governance, as with little resources you do projects that everyone can see,” Wonosikou asserted. 

    Read Also: Exploitation of the vulnerable: A reflection on Nigerian leadership through an Islamic lens


    Also speaking during the media parley, Fintiri’s Principal Special Assistant on Media and Communication, George Kushi, said initiatives in agricultural development, construction of rural roads, improvement in healthcare delivery, among other initiatives have made rural life popular among the citizenry.


    Kushi added that early commencement of the N70,000 minimum wage, implementation of ‘Fintiri Wallet’ program which has included empowerment of 50,000 residents, mass transit buses that have eased transportation, among others, have been trail-blazing service delivery profile. 


    On his part, Fintiri’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Barr Sunday Wugira, said improvement in security which resulted from people of diverse background cohabitating peacefully rather than toe the old way of communal strife, has impacted noticeably on rural life.

  • Sokoto residents jubilate as Matawalle visits to encourage Nigerian troops

    Sokoto residents jubilate as Matawalle visits to encourage Nigerian troops

    Sokoto residents erupted in jubilation on Wednesday, October 9, when the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, arrived in the state to rally troops in the fight against banditry.

    Matawalle’s visit is part of the federal government’s efforts to restore peace and security in the North West Zone, which has been plagued by banditry.

    “I’m thrilled to see Matawalle here,” said Usman Usman, a resident.

    “He’s a beacon of hope for us, and his presence gives us confidence that the government is committed to ending this menace.”

    Matawalle’s reputation as a bandits’ nemesis has preceded him, with many residents praising his efforts to tackle insecurity in the region.

    “Matawalle is a tested, trusted, and reliable leader,” said Umar Ibrahim, a Sokoto resident. “We believe in him, and we know he’ll do everything possible to protect us.”

    Notably, Matawalle’s last visit to the northwest led to the death of notorious bandit kingpin Halilu Sububu. This significant breakthrough is a testament to the Minister’s commitment to eradicating banditry.

    Another resident, Shehu Mohammed said, “President Tinubu and Matawalle’s collaborative efforts have yielded notable successes.

    “With Matawalle here, we feel safer, and we know that help is on the way.”

    Meanwhile, in a statement on Tuesday by Henshaw Ogubike, director of information and public relations at the ministry, Matawalle said his arrival in the state spells doom for bandits and their supporters.

    “As directed by Mr. President, I am back to Sokoto state to assure the people of this great region of our commitment to achieving all necessary yardsticks in the fight against insecurity,” he said.

    “We will never leave you alone. I assure you, we will win this war against bandits and those supporting them to unleash terror against our people.

    Read Also: NDYC commends Matawalle for fight against terrorism

    “We must collaborate with all stakeholders in this region to achieve our target. The federal government will continue to boost the morale of our soldiers and security agencies in this fight.”

    The minister expressed his confidence in the ongoing military operation in the northwest zone.

    “I am optimistic that our gallant troops will continue to record successes through Operation Fansan Yamma as we intensify our fight against these criminals,” he said.

    Matawalle vowed to “relentlessly” fight bandits and their supporters, adding that the Tinubu administration will continue to prioritise the protection of lives and property.

  • Pomp as Chief of Staff Tsauri is turbaned Lamidon Katsina

    Pomp as Chief of Staff Tsauri is turbaned Lamidon Katsina

    The Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, conferred the traditional title of Lamidon Katsina on the Chief of Staff to the Katsina State Governor, Jabiru Abdullahi Tsauri. AUGUSTINE OKEZIE reports that Tsauri was honoured by the revered Emir for his significant contributions to the socio-economic and political development of Katsina State.

    For several hours on Saturday, September 21, guests from far and near joined indigenes of Katsina State to witness the conferment of traditional titles on some illustrious sons of the state. In a grand display of royal tradition and cultural heritage, Katsina State was agog with pomp as the Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness Alhaji Abdul-Mumini Kabir Usman conferred traditional titles on three distinguished sons of the land.

    The historic city, known for its deep-rooted Islamic and Hausa-Fulani traditions played host to dignitaries from all over Nigeria who gathered to witness the prestigious event at the Emir’s palace.

    The Emir’s palace was literally shut as huge crowd made their way to the event venue to catch some fun which rarely holds every year. There was heavy drumming, singing, trumpeting and breathtaking dance steps by cultural dancers who thrilled guests who had seated before the arrival of the dignitaries. The weather was balmy as the sun shone brightly out of the azure sky.

    That day, the ancient city of Katsina witnessed a grand spectacle as the Emir conferred the traditional title of Lamidon Katsina on the Chief of Staff to the Katsina State Governor, Jabiru Abdullahi Tsauri.

    Friends, family, dignitaries and well-wishers gathered to celebrate a man whose life has been marked by service, dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This momentous occasion honoured his personal achievements and recognised his contributions to public service, governance, education and diplomacy.

    One outstanding quality of the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, is his ability to identify talents and assign them to key positions for a progressive Katsina State. The identification and deployment of Tsauri as his Chief of Staff attested to this.

    At the turbaning ceremony, the Emir urged traditional titleholders to maintain their roles in ensuring law and order, stressing that it is important as an elixir to teething troubles in order to usher in peace, unity and tranquillity.

    The conferment of the title on Tsauri was in recognition of his significant contributions to the socio-political and economic development of Katsina State.

    While extending his warm congratulations to Tsauri for his well-deserved honour, the Emir declared that the state has risen in honour of a worthy son of the soil.

    A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Radda, Ibrahim Muhammed Kaula, said the governor had congratulated his Chief of Staff, even as he had expressed profound gratitude to the Katsina Emirate and the Emir in particular for honouring Tsauri with the Lamidon Katsina title.

    While accepting the traditional title, Tsauri pledged to continue to serve the people of Katsina State with unwavering dedication and integrity. He thanked the Almighty Allah for His blessings. He praised the Emirate Council under the leadership of HRH Alhaji Abdulmumin Kabir Usman for the great honour on him.

    He also paid glowing tributes to his principal, Governor Radda, for his guidance and unwavering support, pledging to continue his unalloyed loyalty to him as they work towards building a new Katsina State.

    The Nation recalls that Tsauri was saddled with the responsibility of being the Chairman of the Taskforce on Food Security to tackle food hoarding and high prices.

    While commending the decision of the Emir to confer on Tsauri with the traditional title, the Maigari Tsauri or Magaji Tsauri, Alhaji Gidado Isiaka Abdullahi, said Tsauri deserved the honour, considering the level of philanthropy he has exhibited toward the people. He described Tsauri as a worthy man who is well-known for his good heartedness.

    He said: “Jabiru ensures that our children are enrolled in schools to acquire education. He pays their West African Examination Council (WAEC) and the National Examination Council (NECO) fees. He ensures that the youth are employed in the public and private sectors. He also undertakes financial empowerments of the people, especially women and youths. He has been very helpful to the villagers in terms of training and skills acquisition. His people regard him as a hero because of his kindness and affection.”

    Villagers’ request

    The villagers are, however, requesting, through their traditional ruler that the Lamidon fulfill his promises to repair the roads linking the village to the Kurfi Local Government headquarters, also Katsina-Dutsinma Road, as well as Tsauri–Batsari-Jibia Road.

    Magaji Tsauri, who spoke to The Nation in his palace in Tsauri, also appealed to Lamidon Katsina to appeal to the government to build a dam for water irrigation and farming and for agricultural activities in the area.

    Accolades pour in

    Justice Kabiru Shuabu of the Katsina State High Court aptly captured Jabiru’s humble background and beginning when he recalled during a media chat with The Nation about their primary and secondary school days. He described Jabiru as one with positive disposition, qualities and attributes which have led to his present political status.

    He said: “He (Jabiru) is very intelligent, broad-minded and capable of delivering on any given assignment. He has the capacity to achieve set goals and a well-deserved background and upbringing that have prepared him for the future. Radda wouldn’t have found him worthy as Chief of Staff if he hasn’t all the attributes necessary to help the less privileged.”

    A pip into Jabiru’s political future

    While agreeing with the fact that Jabiru can veer into any political or social landscape he so desires, Justice Kabiru opined that his friend can also strive politically if he so desires. He vouched for Jabiru’s capacity to turn around the fortunes of the newly established Lamido Foundation and ensure it’s greater than the Gwagware Foundation that propelled Dikko Radda to his present political standing.

    He further noted that Jabiru, through his Lamido Foundation can emulate the Gwagware Foundation, and should he sustain the foundation, can also leverage it to reach out to the less privileged people.

    Gwagware Katsina was earlier a title conferred on Governor Radda by the Emir of Katsina which incidentally had Jabiru appointed as State Coordinator. Gwagware Foundation was established in 15 constituencies by Governor Radda and Jabiru was appointed as Coordinator because of his intelligence and brilliant disposition to life.

    Jabiru completed his tertiary education at Teachers’ College Kafanchan, Katsina State, where he graduated in 1998.

    Read Also: Speaker Abbas appoints new deputy chief of staff

    Jabiru’s political trajectory

    Jabiru’s political journey began when his mentor, Senator Tsauri, picked him as a legislative aide at the National Assembly, from where he rose to become the Chairman of the Association of Legislative Aides. After Senator Tsauri, he joined Senator Idah and later Senator David Mark.

    The Nation recalls that Jabiru was also appointed by Governor Radda to head a 27-member committee as a task force on illegal dealers of food commodities, unlawful acts of price hikes and hoardings.

    Appointment as committee chairman

    Tsauri, as Chairman of the task force on food supplies, reeled off several action plans of his committee to the media after his visit to the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Katsina Command, where he sought its cooperation that remained crucial in the course of his assignment.

    He further commended the warmth reception accorded the committee during the visit, revealing that the taskforce was established to monitor the prices of foodstuff, address the act of hoarding grains, movement of food commodities and any act that will lead to price hikes.

    He said: “Anyone found dealing in illegal food commodities, an unlawful act of price hike and hoardings will be made to face the full wrath of the law. Our personnel at LGAs and border areas have already swung into action, and I assure you all the necessary support, cooperation and timely intelligence that will help uncover these illegal dealings.”

    Jabiru: banditry attacks too many

    At a recent banditry attack at Gora Yammama Village in Deyi, Malunfashi Local Government Area of the state, Tsauri regretted that the area has become notorious for high-profile banditry attacks, urging security agencies to focus more on the area.

    He told The Nation how he narrowly escaped a harrowing assault from suspected bandits who were not dressed in uniform but in ragtag dresses and slippers. Tsauri also revealed that Gorar Yam Mama Village near Deyi in Malumfashi Local Government Area has become notorious for high-profile security attacks, and needed a serious security presence.

    He also assured that the recent security measures embarked upon by the State Government will yield significant result soon.

  • Encomium as Olusunle’s books X-ray Nigeria’s political complexities

    Encomium as Olusunle’s books X-ray Nigeria’s political complexities

    The Nigerian political landscape requires a reset to enable the country to reach its full potential on the global stage, Babatunde Olusunle has said.

    Speaking at the launch of his books in Abuja on Wednesday, Olusunle described the current political situation, as depicted in his books, as one that has hindered the nation’s progress, noting that the phenomenon has prevented Nigeria from advancing at the pace it should.

    However, Olusunle expressed optimism, stating that the situation could be reversed with a structural reset of the political system while emphasizing that the contributions of key political figures in shaping a brighter future for the country should not be overlooked.

    These emerged in Abuja on Wednesday during the launch of two books by Olusunle, ‘Orisirisi: Vistas on Contemporary Politics in Nigeria’ and ‘Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths’.

    The event was chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, and supported by Gen. Aliyu Gusau, the former National Security Adviser (NSA), who was the father of the day, alongside Chief Onyema Ogochukwu.

    Others in attendance included former Governor of Kwara State Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, Chukwudi Eze, Sen. Sunday Karimi, Isa Aremu, Eyitayo Togun (SAN), and Sen. Augustine Akobundu, among several others.

    The book reviewer, Prof. Genga Ibileye, who is the Provost of Federal University, Lokoja, highlighted the impact the two works stand to make in a time when Nigeria grapples with profound political and social challenges, as the two books provide critical insights into the nation’s past, present, and future.

    The reviewer said the works present a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Nigerian governance and the human narratives that shape it.

    He said Orisirisi stands out as a multifaceted examination of contemporary Nigerian politics. Olusunle employs a unique duality in its title, drawing on the culinary term for assorted meat while simultaneously invoking the disorderly and chaotic nature of Nigeria’s political landscape.

    According to him, the books dissect governance, corruption, and leadership, reflecting on historical and current issues that have impeded Nigeria’s progress.

    He said: “As noted in the book, ‘Nigeria’s political class has perfected the art of recycling mediocrity,’ illustrating how entrenched corruption has become a barrier to effective governance.

    “Olusunle’s analytical approach is complemented by a thoughtful critique of Nigeria’s leadership evolution.

    “The author effectively links the political missteps of the past to current governance failures, suggesting that ‘the political evolution of Nigeria is a tale of missed opportunities.’

    “Such reflections encourage readers to confront the uncomfortable realities of Nigeria’s political history while recognizing the potential for reform.”

    In contrast, Prof. Ibileye said Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths shifts focus from political critique to celebration, honouring the lives and legacies of influential Nigerian figures.

    “This collection of tributes provides a poignant look at the human side of leadership, capturing the essence of individuals who have shaped Nigeria’s trajectory.

    “Through personal anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Olusunle weaves a narrative that resonates with emotional depth.

    “While the two works differ in tone, Orisirisi being more critical and analytical, and Toasts, Tributes, and Wreaths more reflective and sentimental, they are complementary in their themes.

    “Together, they encapsulate the intricate tapestry of Nigeria’s political landscape, offering readers both macro-level analyses and micro-level human stories.

    “As Nigeria navigates its political evolution, understanding these narratives becomes crucial.

    “The relevance of Olusunle’s works cannot be overstated. As the nation faces pressing governance issues and seeks a path toward stability, these books serve as essential tools for understanding the complexities of Nigerian politics.”

    Represented by Olusegun Adekunke, the SGF praised Olusunle for his inclusive and non-discriminatory nature, noting that he maintains friendships despite differing opinions or political and socioeconomic affiliations.

    Highlighting Olusunle’s deep understanding of Nigerian politics, the SGF remarked that his books aptly capture the complexities of the country’s political landscape.

    He also commended the thorough research underpinning Olusunle’s work, encouraging other writers, both established and aspiring, to follow his example and contribute to preserving Nigeria’s political and cultural history through their writing.

    He commended the depth of research in Olusunle’s books and challenged other writers, particularly aspiring ones, to follow his example while urging him to continue his work, emphasizing the importance of writing to preserve history for future generations.

    Brig. Gen. Saleh Bala (rtd), representing former NSA Gusau, emphasized the need for Nigeria to take decisive action, highlighting the military’s past successes in restoring and maintaining peace globally.

    He lamented the apparent inability of the same military to effectively combat persistent banditry in Zamfara and other regions.

    Bala also referenced the former Guards Brigade Commander, Brig. Gen. Julius Oshanupin, whose heroic role in the rescue of American hostages remained undocumented and unacknowledged by Nigerian writers, underscored the need to celebrate such achievements.

    “Here is a hero that hardly do we have his achievement chronicled in the annals of the history of Nigeria.

    “He was the Nigerian commander in Somalia in the heat of the war. This was the kind of men who were brave enough that no other contingent rose to rescue American marines in the heart of Mogadishu.

    “He lost men and equipment, he rescued Americans and he’s nowhere in the history of Nigeria,” he lamented.

    On what motivated the books, Olusunle said being a creative writer and a poet, who has always been engaged in sociopolitical matters, “My literature covers radical themes, and from my school days onward, I’ve not only read about these issues but witnessed them in society.

    “So, it felt necessary to speak out about self-development. You can’t be a committed writer in a country like ours and not address the challenges we face.

    “I’d say I’m apolitical by nature. I’m a scholar and a teacher, so objectivity is crucial for me. I can rise above partisanship when needed, but when it’s important to take a stand, I’ll do so unapologetically.

    “Primarily, I’m addressing leadership and ineptitude. We’re moving backward as a nation, and it’s worrying. As a people, we aren’t progressing the way we should.

    “We recently marked our 64th Independence anniversary, which was a time for reflection—looking at our past, assessing the present, and hopefully believing in a better future”.

    On the choice of the title ‘Orisirisi’ one of the books, Olusunle said, “Orisirisi represents a potpourri, a mixture of different elements. The book touches on politics, governance, leadership, literature, sports, and even experiences from the ivory tower.

    “It’s a collection of diverse subjects, like a rich soup with various ingredients, each adding its own flavour.

    “We need to reset and realign our course, focusing on moving forward. If we don’t, even countries that once looked to us for guidance will surpass us.

    “Look at how, not too long ago, Nigeria held nations like Liberia and Sierra Leone together, but now, countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali are pulling away from our influence.

    “We have to regain our footing, fix our economy, strengthen our moral values, and rebuild our respect in the global community if we want to grow”, he said.

    Prof. Akinwumi Olayemi, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, former General Manager of the National Theatre Prof. Sunday Ododo, Chief of Staff to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Prince Olusola Akanmode, Assistant Inspector General of Police Tony Olofu (rtd), former Commander of Guards Brigade Brig. Gen. Julius Oshanupin, and Chief Onyema Ogochukwu, among others, spoke in glowing terms of Olusunle’s dedication, integrity, friendship, resourcefulness, and solution-driven nature.

    Gusau Institute, Kaduna, and another friend of Olusunle purchased copies of Olusunle’s books for N5 million.

    Read Also: Olusunle is ANA’s Fellow

    Chief Emeka Offor, appreciating his long-standing friendship with the author, acquired two copies for N2.5 million.

    Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe also purchased copies for an undisclosed seven-figure sum, joining other notable individuals, including former Deputy Governor of Kogi State Yomi Awoniyi, who chose not to disclose the amounts they contributed.

    Commenting on the books and depiction of the Nigerian realities, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power lamented that the country “continues to go down”, saying, “Especially our candidate He made some statements, he said, well, that’s exactly where we are today.

    “Nobody would believe that we will get to where we are and continue to go down, and it’s such a big shame that Nigeria is looked upon by African

    “I think what Nelson Mandela has said is that the world will never take Africa seriously until they take Nigeria seriously.”

    “And we continue to go down. We want to make ourselves to be taken seriously….by other nations”.

  • Kwara Gov announces N100m support for Kaiama boat mishap victims

    Kwara Gov announces N100m support for Kaiama boat mishap victims

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has announced a N100m support for victims of the recent boat mishap involving up to 200 people from Kaiama local government area.

    The Governor announced the support on Thursday during a visit to the Emir of Kaiama Alhaji Omar Mu’azu (Kiyaru IV). 

    Governor AbdulRazaq commiserated with the Emir and the people of Kaiama, saying the incident again underscored the reason for more institutional checks on water travel. 

    He also conveyed the condolences of President Bola Tinubu to the monarch and the people of Kaiama, saying a delegation of the President could not proceed to Kwara on Thursday because of the bad weather that prevented them from flying. 

    “We have come to again register our condolences over the sad incident. May Allaah forgive our compatriots who died in the mishap,” he told the Emir.

    Read Also: Olofa, ODU hail Kwara Gov, seek support for expansion works on Ibrahim Taiwo Road

    “The government is supporting the people affected with the sums of N100m. We feel very sad. It is also important that no one who is embarking or disembarking from boat in Kwara is allowed to do so without a life jacket. Anyone who does so will have to face penalties. We also call on the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to, as a matter of oversight, ensure that people who board boats must use life jackets.”

    The Emir commended the Governor for the visit and for sending a powerful delegation to the affected community, Gwajibo, led by Speaker Yakubu Danladi Salihu. 

    The Emir said while the incident was an act of God, as no soul can die without His knowledge, it was important for people to respect safety rules such as using life jackets and avoiding overloading and night journey. 

    He thanked the Governor for the donation and his constant support for the people, including efforts to hire teachers from the grassroots. 

  • Fed Govt seeks adoption of gender equality in workplace policy

    Fed Govt seeks adoption of gender equality in workplace policy

    The Federal Government has called for the adoption of gender equality in workplace policy by ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

    The government said the policy, if adopted, would lead to safer work environments free of harassment.

    The government said it was committed to supporting initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women in workplace policy.

    It made the pledge during a high-level stakeholders’ advocacy meeting on the validated Nigeria Workplace Gender Policy organised by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development with the support of Oxfam Nigeria in Abuja on Monday.

    The meeting sought to raise awareness on the workplace gender policy among federal ministries and ensure its smooth passage at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) with the ultimate goal of creating a safe and inclusive work environment for all Nigerians.

    Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye emphasised the importance of the policy in fostering gender equality in workplaces across the country.

    The minister, who was represented by the Director of Gender Affairs, Adamu Ismaila Web, said: “The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and empower women, particularly in relation to this critical workplace policy.”

    The minister said the policy represented a significant milestone in advancing gender equality and social inclusion in workplaces.

    Read Also: First Lady urges women to seek power, promote gender equality

    She expressed optimism that, with the active participation of stakeholders, the initiative would lead to safer work environments free of harassment.

    The minister also commended the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Oxfam Nigeria and other partners for their efforts in promoting this achievement.

    The Director of Inspectorate, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Olaolu Olaitan, stressed the importance of gender equality in unlocking the skills and perspectives of both men and women.

    She noted that gender mainstreaming considered the differences between men and women and addressed the human implications of those differences.

    “When we avoid gender discrimination in the workplace, we can increase productivity and alleviate conflicts,” she added.

    Oxfam in Nigeria’s Programme Manager for Gender Justice, Helen Akinyemi, emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the successful approval and implementation of the policy.

    She called for continued support from ministries and development partners to achieve a future where workplaces are inclusive and gender-neutral.

    President of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Comrade Festus Osifo threw the weight of organised behind the policy.

    Osifo said the validated National Workplace Gender Policy marked a significant milestone in the collective journey towards achieving these goals.

    “We pledge our support and solidarity in implementing this policy, ensuring that our workplaces become beacons of equality, where every individual can thrive regardless of gender. Together, let us foster a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and empowerment,” he stated.

  • General detained over alleged palliative diversion, others

    General detained over alleged palliative diversion, others

    An Army General has been detained over alleged diversion of palliative rice meant for soldiers and the sale of military equipment to scrap yards.

    The suspect, Brig.-Gen. M. A. Sadiq, who was the Commander 3 Brigade, Kano, was said to have been invited to Abuja by the military police where he is being detained.

    Military activist and whistleblower, @MiliAct posted the information on X, alleging that Sadiq sold off generator sets and operational vehicles to scrap yards.

    He wrote: “The commander of 3 Brigade Kano, Brigadier General M. A. Sadiq, has been detained in a military police guardroom in Abuja over alleged diversion of rice palliatives, selling of military equipment, including generator sets and operational vehicles, to scrap yards.

    Read Also; 13 repentant terrorists escape with govt rifles in Borno

    “At the end he will be retired voluntarily without any punishment.”

    The Nation gathered that the rice, which was from the Federal Government’s palliatives to cushion the effect of the hardship, was for distribution to soldiers.

    The brigade, like others across the country, received the rice, said to be in 25kg bags but the commander refused to distribute them to his soldiers.

    It was also gathered that the embattled general allegedly stole many official equipment belonging to the military, including a MIKANO heavy-duty generator, at Military Training Camp, Falgore, Kano and sold them to metal scrap dealers.

    A new Commander has been posted to head the Brigade while Sadiq, sources said, would face a special probe panel.

    Sadiq is not the first General to have been allegedly involved in criminal diversion and sale of rice.

    Some months ago, there were grumblings in the Western Command of the Nigerian Navy over allegations that a Rear Admiral diverted trailers of seized smuggled rice.

    The officer, it was gathered, was eventually redeployed after the alleged scandal.

    It was gathered that the senior officer mandated operational units and bases under his command to ensure that every bag of rice seized was moved to Apapa where he eventually sold them in trailers to those trading in the staple.

    Spokesman for the Army, Maj.-Gen. Nwachukwu Onyema, said Sadiq was undergoing military investigation into administrative discrepancies while he was Commander 3 Brigade.

    He confirmed that the senior officer had been relieved of his command to ensure a thorough investigation.

    “The Nigerian Army being a self-regulatory institution founded on the bedrock of discipline, justice, and accountability, has zero tolerance for indiscipline  and will therefore not condone any form of misconduct or actions and inactions that could undermine the threshold of its values and principles.

    “The Nigerian Army assures both our internal and external publics that this matter will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate administrative action will be taken. Our commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency remains unwavering.

    “We guarantee that the process will be fair, impartial, and in line with our established procedures,” he added.

  • 13 repentant terrorists escape with rifles in Borno

    13 repentant terrorists escape with rifles in Borno

    Thirteen repentant Boko Haram fighters have escaped with rifles and motorcycles given to them by the Borno State government, which co-opted them to join military operatives in the fight against the insurgents.

    They are among thousands of former Boko Haram fighters and their families who had surrendered to the government.

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    The former fighters, who were attached to military operatives in Mafa, escaped from their camp between September 1 and 2, reports Premium Times.

    Last year, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, said more than 160,000 Boko Haram members and their families had surrendered to the military amid a sustained military onslaught.

    The former terrorists and their families are being managed under the Borno Model, a post-conflict amnesty programme with a focus on deradicalisation, rehabilitation, reintegration and resettlement of low-risk persons previously associated with armed groups.

  • Why Nigeria should not return to regionalism, by Middle Belt elder

    Why Nigeria should not return to regionalism, by Middle Belt elder

    The Middle Belt Council of Elders has kicked against the call by some Nigerians that the country should return to the regional system of government, saying it will give majority ethnic groups the upper hand to marginalize the minority tribes.

    In a statement jointly signed by the chairman and secretary of the elders council, Gen. Lekwot Zamani and Jonathan Isaku, however, supported true federalism with states under the zones as the federating units as recommended by the 2014 National Conference as the most cost-effective option.

    “Given the complex nature of our diverse federation, the call by some people for a return to regionalism is untenable. Under such a system before the coup in January 1966, minorities were seriously marginalised by the major ethnic groups.

    “Since change is the progressive phenomenon that makes life interesting, true federalism with the states under the zones as the federating units vide the 2014 National Conference recommendation is the most cost-effective option which we fully support.

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    “Creating a few more states with boundary adjustments where necessary will bring government to every nook and cranny of the federation to enhance purposeful development, peace, and tranquillity where the states will take charge of their resources and contribute to the federal government as was the case before. This will give vent to healthy competition among the states and infuse a deep sense of belonging and patriotism in everyone,

    “The vast agricultural land, huge natural resources, and the creative talents abound in the states will then be properly harnessed to free us from the shackles of poverty and insecurity by employing the teeming youths. This is what the call for restructuring, which should be set in motion without further delay, is all about.

    “May God guide our leaders to mend their ways to assuage the current anguish that has overwhelmed us for Nigeria to take her pride of place in the comity of nations soon,” the statement said.

  • Firm honours Indomie award winners

    Firm honours Indomie award winners

    Dufil Prima Foods Ltd is set to honour young heroes of Nigeria in a grand ceremony to be broadcast live across multiple TV networks on October 13.

    The much-anticipated Indomie Heroes Award is a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative of the brand to recognize, celebrate, and reward children who have displayed exceptional acts of bravery, strength, innovation and heroism.

    This year’s edition, the 16th in the series, is themed:  “Unsung Heroes”, and brings to the spotlight stories of children aged 15 and below, who have, through remarkable courage and selflessness, made significant contributions to their communities and would be celebrated and broadcast live on TV for the first time.

    Speaking on the initiative, the Group Corporate Communications and Events Manager at Dufil Prima Foods Ltd, Temitope Asiwaju stated that the awards to be given out are in three categories, namely: Social Bravery, Intellectual Bravery and Physical Bravery.

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    “The Social Bravery Award honours youth tackling critical issues like child marriage, illiteracy, and environmental concerns. The Intellectual Bravery Award recognizes innovative problem-solving with limited resources, while the Physical Bravery Award celebrates children who risk personal safety to save lives or prevent harm in their communities. The nationwide broadcast will showcase inspiring stories of courageous children in these categories, allowing the whole country to share in their powerful narratives” he said.

    Dufil Prima Foods, through the Indomie Heroes Award, continues its mission of honouring the extraordinary achievements of young children whose heroic actions often go unrecognized.

    This initiative reflects the brand’s commitment to promoting timeless values such as courage, resilience, innovation and selflessness, ensuring these children’s efforts are celebrated across the nation.

    Nigerians can watch the live broadcast on 13th October 2024, and witness these heartwarming stories unfold on NTA, Channels, Africa Magic Urban, AIT, and TVC.