The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Social workers gather in Abuja for 39th national conference/AGM 

    Social workers gather in Abuja for 39th national conference/AGM 

    The Nigeria Association of Social Workers (NASoW), the umbrella body for all social workers in the country, has announced its preparedness to host its 39th annual national conference and general meeting, themed “Abuja 2024.”

    The event is scheduled to take place from November 19th to 23rd this year at the Cyprian Ekwensi Center for Arts and Culture Complex Auditorium, Area 10, Garki, Abuja.

    NASoW’s national president, Alhaji Mashood Mustapha, disclosed this in a statement released to journalists by the association’s National Public Relations Officer, Musliudeen Adebayo, on Tuesday, October 8.

    Mustapha said that expected participants at the conference include professional social workers working with NGOs, hospitals, private practice, schools, ministries, agencies and departments offering social welfare services, social work lecturers from institutions offering social work/ social development courses, undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students of social work home and in the Diaspora. 

    He added that the event which has “Partnerships for Professional Social Work in Nigeria: Leveraging the Social Work Act and Development Partners for Impact” will afford social workers within and outside the country the opportunity to interact, share ideas and knowledge, career opportunities both at home and overseas and other related issues.

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    He explained further that the conference will also feature stakeholders engagement which will be an avenue for the association and development partners to brainstorm on critical issues affecting the profession. 

    “The Nigeria Association of Social Workers will like  to use this medium to inform social workers in Nigeria and those in the Diaspora that the 39th NASoW National Conference and Annual General Meeting tagged Abuja 2024 is scheduled to hold in November. Registration for the Conference and AGM has commenced. 

    “The Conference/ Annual General Meeting  will take place between 19th and 23rd November this year in Abuja.

    “The theme of the event is “Partnerships for Professional Social Work in Nigeria: Leveraging the Social Work Act and Development Partners for Impact” this will afford social workers within and outside the country the opportunity to interact, share ideas and knowledge, career opportunities both at home and overseas and other related issues.

    “The second day of the conference will feature stakeholders engagement where we will be interacting with development partners to brainstorm on critical issues affecting the profession and the practitioners in the country. 

    “We are expecting participants locally and internationally to attend the conference which will be hybrid. This is in line with the new normal and global best practices. 

    “The venue of the conference is Cyprian Ekwensi Center for Arts and Culture Complex Auditorium, Area 10, Garki, Abuja. Arrival 19th, Conference, 20th, Stakeholders engagement 21st, Annual General Meeting 22nd, Departure 23rd.

    “Registration for the conference is ongoing, we are using this opportunity to inform the participants to register for the conference before  the closing date.”

  • Pensioners hail Tinubu for approving N32,000 increment

    Pensioners hail Tinubu for approving N32,000 increment

    The Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving an increment of N32,000 to pensions for Nigerian pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme.

    The increase followed a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission in conveying the President’s approval of the increment and its implementation to miniseries, departments and agencies of government.

    FEPPPAN, which is a union representing pensioners under the Pension Transitional Directorate Arrangement (PTAD) payroll, expressed its appreciation to the President for his “unprecedented efforts in boosting the welfare of pensioners.”

    In a letter signed by its General Secretary, Franklin Erinle and Deputy President General, Elder Amako, the pensioners hailed the President’s swift action in ensuring that pension increases were issued promptly in the same month as the minimum wage adjustments for workers.

    According to FEPPPAN, the approval breaks from a long-standing tradition where pensioners were left waiting for extended periods, sometimes years, before they could receive any adjustment to their pensions after salary increases for active workers had already been implemented.

    The pensioners said this was a much-needed shift, acknowledging the President’s “unparalleled and unprecedented concern” for the welfare of senior citizens, some of the most vulnerable in Nigerian society.

    They said it was crucial that the government institutionalised a system that regularly adjusted pensions to keep pace with inflation and cost-of-living.

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    It reads: “The importance of this gesture cannot be overstated. Pensioners in Nigeria have historically been neglected in the nation’s socio-economic policies, often sidelined when it comes to critical welfare provisions.

    “As individuals who have spent decades contributing to the country’s growth, they now find themselves on the margins, grappling with inadequate financial support amidst rising inflation and an increasingly challenging cost of living.

    “President Tinubu’s administration with its Renewed Hope Agenda, through this pension review, has demonstrated that pensioners are not an afterthought, but an integral part of the nation’s welfare structure. We appreciate you Mr President and we are grateful that you care about Nigerian pensioners and have shown it through this action and approval for prompt payment of pensions.

    “Pensioners are among the most vulnerable citizens in Nigeria. Many of them rely solely on their pensions for survival, and with the skyrocketing prices of essential goods and services, including healthcare, this income often falls woefully short of meeting their basic needs. The N32,000 increment recently added to pensions is certainly a step in the right direction, even though the harsh economic reality in Nigeria bites harder.”

    The pensioners expressed hope in President Tinubu’s economic reforms and urged that practical steps and strong willed actions be taken to ensure that the reforms deliver turnaround solutions and economic growth to cushion the biting hardship in the country and improvement in the lives of the citizens.

    They pleaded that more comprehensive support be given to pensioners across board to enable them survive the hard times.

  • IMPI chair, Akinsiju bags Doctorate

    IMPI chair, Akinsiju bags Doctorate

    The Chairman of the Independent Media and Policy Initiative, (IMPI) Niyi Akinsiju has been conferred with the Doctor of Philosophy, PhD academic award by the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

    This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Vice Chairman of the policy think-tank, Mallam Danjuma Mohammad.

    The statement reads: “The IMPI notes that Chief Akinsiju was conferred with a Doctorate Degree in Development Communication after about five years of rigorous coursework, examination, and a tedious defense of his thesis by a team of the University’s internal examiners and external examiner.

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    “Since IMPI’s formation, its chairman Chief Akinsiju has displayed a studious desire to excel in academics, even as he continuously led the charge in critically evaluating national policies and programmes.

    “On his watch, IMPI has issued 16 policy advisories on sundry national issues that have added fresh perspectives to public discourse.

    “We pray that God Almighty will continue to grant him the strength and wisdom to lead IMPI to greatness.”

  • Group seeks return to 1963 constitution

    Group seeks return to 1963 constitution

    *Submits document to NASS

    The Movement for National Reformation (MNR) has called for a return to Nigeria’s Republican Constitution of 1963.

    The group noted that the constitution was a veritable cure to the country’s defective federal system and best democratic approach to constitutional review.

    The group said it is canvassing that position as part of its contribution to the ongoing national discourse on the restructuring of Nigeria, stressing that the 1963 constitution offers clarity to the seeming confusion by the members of the National Assembly.

    In a statement at the weekend jointly signed by the Chairman of MNR Constitution Review Committee, Prof. Igho Natufe and Secretary, Dr. Yemi Adekoke, the group said it has already submitted a memoranda calling for a return to the 1963 Constitution to both the Senate and House of Representatives.

    While arguing that it was unclear what the Senate Leader, Opayemi Bamidele meant when he “assured Nigerians that the issue of regionalism was not part of the ongoing constitution review,” MNR said he got it all wrong.

    The statement said: “For the Senate Leader to suggest that regionalism will encourage Biafran secessionism reveals a poor understanding of the value of regionalism in maintaining stability in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious polity like Nigeria.

    Read Also: Mixed signals on constitution review

    “On the contrary, a denial of regionalism will encourage the emergence of centrifugal forces with severe consequences for the political system. If Nigerians are sincere in their desire for ‘restructuring’, it is vital that they embrace regionalism as a vibrant ideological principle in the articulation of federalism.”

    MNR argued that the 1963 CFRN is the only existing federal constitution in Nigeria Nigeria that emerged through a bottom-top process that fits the mantra of “We the People” in its preamble.

    It stressed that the 1963 Republican constitution was only suspended, but was never abrogated, noting that civil governance in the first republic was truncated in January 1966.

    “Since the collapse of the First Republic on January 15, 1966, constitution making in Nigeria has deviated from the universally accepted principle of the federating units negotiating and agreeing on the terms of federalism,” the statement added.

  • Northern patriots hail Bichi’s Reps of Year 2024 Award

    Northern patriots hail Bichi’s Reps of Year 2024 Award

    The Northern Patriots have congratulated Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi on being named the Best Nigerian Legislator at the Democratic Heroes Award Africa 2024.

    This prestigious award recognises Bichi’s exceptional leadership, commitment to his constituents’ welfare, and dedication to Nigeria’s development.

    In a statement signed by Mallam Adamu Mohammed and Dr. Innocent Audu, the group said Bichi’s pulp leadership style is characterised by inclusivity, empathy, and a deep understanding of his people’s needs.

    As chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, the group said he has demonstrated exemplary leadership, ensuring his constituents’ needs are reflected in the national budget.

    The group said his leadership extends beyond his constituency, inspiring a new generation of leaders to emulate his values and principles.

    The Northern Patriots praised his dedication to the democratic process as being unwavering, and his contributions to Nigeria’s development are undeniable.

    Through his leadership, they said Bichi has shown that effective representation is not just about legislation, but about positively impacting lives.

    “We are thrilled to congratulate Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi on his well-deserved emergence as the Best Nigerian Legislator at the Democratic Heroes Award Africa 2024. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his constituents.

    “Hon. Bichi’s leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, empathy, and a deep understanding of the needs of his people. He has consistently demonstrated a strong sense of purpose, guiding his constituents toward a brighter future. His ability to bridge gaps and foster cooperation has earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. As Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, he has displayed exemplary leadership, ensuring that the needs of his constituents are reflected in the national budget.

    Read Also: Arewa youth groups pull out of planned protest after Bichi’s intervention

    “Hon. Bichi’s leadership extends beyond the confines of his constituency, inspiring a new generation of leaders to emulate his values and principles. His dedication to the democratic process has been unwavering, and his contributions to the development of Nigeria are undeniable. Through his leadership, Hon. Bichi has shown that effective representation is not just about legislation, but about positively impacting lives.

    “Hon. Bichi has initiated numerous programs aimed at uplifting the youth, providing education and economic opportunities in Bichi Federal Constituency. His efforts have positively impacted many lives, earning him the appreciation and gratitude of his constituents. Infrastructure projects, improved healthcare services, and economic development are just a few examples of his dedication to his constituents’ welfare.

    “The impact of his initiatives has resonated throughout the region, inspiring hope and optimism for a brighter future. His constituents’ welfare is evident in every aspect of his work.

    “As Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Hon. Bichi has played a pivotal role in ensuring the speedy passage of the 2024 appropriation bill. His leadership has been instrumental in reflecting the needs of his constituents in the national budget. Hon. Bichi’s expertise and experience have been invaluable in navigating the complexities of the appropriation process.

    “His ability to balance competing interests has earned him the respect of his colleagues. Under his chairmanship, the Committee on Appropriations has demonstrated transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.

    “Bichi has initiated numerous programs aimed at uplifting the youth, providing education and economic opportunities in Bichi Federal Constituency. His efforts have positively impacted many lives, earning appreciation and gratitude from his constituents. Infrastructure projects, improved healthcare services, and economic development are just a few examples of his dedication to his constituents’ welfare.

    “As chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Bichi played a pivotal role in ensuring the speedy passage of the 2024 appropriation bill. His leadership has been instrumental in reflecting the needs of his constituents in the national budget. Bichi’s expertise and experience have been invaluable in navigating the complexities of the appropriation process.

    “His ability to balance competing interests has earned him the respect of his colleagues. Under his chairmanship, the Committee on Appropriations has demonstrated transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.”

    The Northern Patriots urged Bichi to remain focused on his vision for a better Nigeria, continuing to inspire and uplift his constituents.

    They pledged support for his future endeavours and congratulated him once again on this well-deserved recognition.

    The statement added: “Bichi’s colleagues can learn valuable lessons from his leadership style, particularly his ability to connect with his constituents and understand their needs. His commitment to inclusivity and empathy is a shining example of effective representation.”

  • Mining pollution in Nasarawa a time bomb, experts warn

    Mining pollution in Nasarawa a time bomb, experts warn

    Experts have petitioned the Nasarawa Assembly over mining pollution in Awe and Karu local government Areas, describing it as a ticking time bomb and an avenue for the exploitation of young girls by licensed and illegal miners. 

    They said the situation will give rise to environmental pollution and insecurity occasioned by the influx of foreigners in the communities, urging Nasarawa State Government. to investigate and take urgent action.

    The Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI) and its partners – the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN) and the Citizens Free Service Forum (CFSF) made these known at a media interaction on the state of mining communities in Nasarawa State in Ikeja, Lagos. 

    RDI’s Executive Director, Philip Jakpor, mining in Nasarawa communities like Abuni and Awe was particularly disturbing as the locals blamed the environmental degradation in the community on Multiverse Mining Company, supposedly Chinese owned.

    Jakpor said the alarm on the state of the environment follows a similar report on Uke district in April 2024 where the locals said the discovery of lithium and gold in their environment had led to despoliation of the environment and strange faces that are making the locals uncomfortable.

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    EDEN Executive Director Barrister Chima Williams said that the findings and the amateur videos show that violations of the environment are going on unchecked and the local people are totally helpless because they want to be law abiding.

    Williams noted the situation in Uke and Abuni reinforces the call by EDEN for the establishment of Mining Monitors comprising of mining host community representatives, Ministry of Mining representatives, Civil Defence representatives, among others to monitor the mining sites and routes, arrest any illegal miner and hands over to the Police for further investigation and prosecution.

    Executive Director of CFSF, Comrade Sani Baba, extolled the patience of the community people in Awe and Karu LGA, notIng the findings in the mining communities were disheartening and confirms the organisation’s long-held belief in the quest for extraction of solid minerals. 

    The petition asked the Assembly to compel Multiverse mining company to take full responsibility for the clean-up and other remediation efforts on the environment in Uke district and Abuni community.

  • Bauchi: Senator Buba flags off road construction in Zaranda town

    Bauchi: Senator Buba flags off road construction in Zaranda town

    Senator Shehu Buba Umar has flagged off the construction of a two-and-a-half-kilometer road in Zaranda Town in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

    The project, which is among the promises the lawmaker made to the people of Bauchi South during his inauguration in June 2023, reflects a commitment to service.

    Speaking on the intervention, Senator Buba emphasized the importance of infrastructure development as it contributes to citizens’ well-being and economic development.

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    The Chairman of Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence said the flag off was the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at improving the overall quality of life in the district.

    “This road construction is a manifestation of my dedication to pursuing projects that enhance the welfare as well as empowerment of our people.

    “This is only the tip of the iceberg in our catalogue of programmes intended for Bauchi South. I am committed to rolling out similar initiatives throughout my term.

    “I urge all stakeholders to work with us so that we can collectively foster the growth and development of our great district. May Allah help us,” Senator Buba added.

    The legislator, however, appealed to residents to exercise patience as the ongoing projects progress, assuring of continued quality representation at the National Assembly.

  • Ladi Jatto bags strategic leadership award 

    Ladi Jatto bags strategic leadership award 

    The Center for Ethical Conduct Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) on October 3, 2024, at Merit House in Abuja, honored Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto with dual awards: a certificate for ethical leadership and excellence, and a plaque recognizing her outstanding achievements in ethical governance and strategic leadership.

    Jatto, who holds the title of Officer of the Order of Niger (OON), currently serves as the Kogi State project coordinator for the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) initiative. 

    This World Bank-assisted project, overseen by Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo, is aimed at addressing critical issues of land degradation and erosion in Nigeria.

    Her recognition also highlighted her impressive track record as a special adviser on the environment during the administration of Captain Idris Wada, and later as the State Focal Person for the NEWMAP project under Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello. 

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    Following the completion of NEWMAP, she was appointed to lead the ACReSAL project, marking a career defined by consistent dedication to public service, strong leadership, and excellence in governance.

    Among the recipients of the other categories of awards are politicians in the silk of Hon. Leke Abejide, Member Representing Yagba Federal Constituency of Kogi State and his Colleague, Hon. Obuzor Victor of the Green Chambers.  

    The director general of Federal Emergency Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA); Director General of the  Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, The Comproller General of the Nigerian Correctional Services, NCS, were among the recipients of the awards. 

    The event was a gathering of public Servants, politicians,  Captains of Industries and elites from various walks of life.

  • AYCF defends Kaduna govt, dismisses N36b loan claim by Sahara Reporters

    AYCF defends Kaduna govt, dismisses N36b loan claim by Sahara Reporters

    The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a firm statement defending the Kaduna state government against what it described as misleading claims by Sahara Reporters.

    The report, which alleged that the state borrowed N36 billion in just six months, was rejected by the AYCF as not only inaccurate but also a violation of journalistic standards.

    In its official response, the AYCF criticized the report as a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and create division among the people of Kaduna state.

    The forum expressed unwavering support for the Kaduna State Government, which it said has clearly explained that it is responsibly managing debts inherited from the previous administration.

    It further noted that the debts have been worsened by the sharp devaluation of the Naira and include long-term commitments, such as critical projects funded by the World Bank under programs like AGILE, SURWASH, and ACReSAL.

    The AYCF said: “These initiatives were set in motion long before the current administration, led by Governor Uba Sani.”

    The forum also raised concerns about the intentions behind the misleading report, hinting at a possible connection to the previous administration under Nasir El-Rufai, which has been criticized for unaccounted debts.

    It claimed that El-Rufai’s alleged indictment by a legitimate panel, might be fueling a disinformation campaign aimed at undermining the current government.

    “The current administration is working tirelessly to address the financial challenges left by its predecessor, not to create new burdens. 

    “We find it unacceptable that a former governor, under investigation and indictment, would resort to such tactics to undermine the stability of Kaduna State”‘,  said Shettima, President General for AYCF. 

    The AYCF urged the swift legal proceedings against former Governor El-Rufai to promote accountability and transparency concerning the state’s debt.

    The forum stressed that the public has a right to clear information about the government’s financial situation and warned that any efforts to misrepresent the facts would not be tolerated.

    “Let us not forget that accountability is the foundation of good governance,” continued Shettima. 

    “We encourage the public to stay informed and engaged, as the truth about our state’s finances must come to light. Together, we will demand justice and work towards a prosperous future for Kaduna state.”

    The AYCF reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance and fiscal responsibility in Kaduna State, urging citizens to stay alert and guard against misinformation.

  • Insecurity: Sokoto govt constructs military base in Illela

    Insecurity: Sokoto govt constructs military base in Illela

    Sokoto State government says it is currently constructing a military base in Illela town to support military operations in the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality in the state.

    Economic Adviser to the state governor, Dr. Bashir Achida, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja yesterday.

    He said the move was part of the efforts of the government and people of Sokoto State towards addressing the security challenge in the northwest and country at large.

    According to him, the government, when done with the construction of the base, would hand it over to the Federal Government in line with constitutional provision which placed the military under the Exclusive list.

    He said the renewed support became necessary, given the need to secure life and properties of citizens and the strategic position of the state in  agriculture and the nation’s economic development.

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    According to Adicha, with a secure environment, Sokoto State would contribute more to the nation’s efforts to fight poverty and food shortage.

    He said the strategic location of the state as a major agrarian area and having an international boundary made it vulnerable to the activities of bandits and other anti-social elements.

    He said the government had provided 140 operational vehicles to support the security agencies in the state to fight criminality, banditry in the communities and the farm lands.

    Achida said the state government was also constructing major roads to make the rural communities accessible to the military as part of its contributions to the fight against banditry and terrorism.

    He said the community guards that were earlier set up by the state government had been provided with 700 motorcycles and 40 Hilus vehicles.

    This, he said, was to complement efforts of the military and other security agencies in combating banditry and other criminal activities in the state.