The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Stakeholders converge in Abuja as firm launches advocates quality medication in community health

    Stakeholders converge in Abuja as firm launches advocates quality medication in community health

    Stakeholders from the health sector and the wider community gathered in Abuja on Friday, December 13, 2025, as AYMA Pharmacy and Stores commenced operations, with its management stressing the importance of quality medication in strengthening community health.

    The opening of the pharmaceutical outlet attracted healthcare professionals, community leaders, business stakeholders and residents of the area.

    Activities at the event included remarks from the management and a guided tour of the facility, during which guests were informed about the pharmacy’s services, operational standards and approach to patient care.

    Speaking at the event, a representative of the pharmacy, Mrs Aysha Magaji Bello, emphasised the need for access to genuine medicines and proper dispensing practices as part of broader efforts to improve public health.

    She said the availability of trusted medication, alongside professional pharmaceutical guidance, contributes to improved health outcomes and overall community wellbeing.

    Mrs Bello also noted that pharmacies have a responsibility to operate ethically by prioritising patient education and complying with regulatory requirements, rather than focusing solely on commercial interests. 

    She explained that AYMA Pharmacy and Stores was established to serve as a dependable healthcare provider for individuals and families.

    According to her, the outlet is positioned to respond to the growing demand for accessible pharmaceutical services in Abuja by offering essential medicines, wellness products and professional advice.

    Some attendees described the new pharmacy as a positive addition to the Wuse area, expressing optimism that its focus on quality and professionalism would enhance healthcare delivery within the community.

    The management of AYMA Pharmacy and Stores reaffirmed its commitment to supporting public health through trained personnel, reliable medication and a service-oriented approach as it begins full operations.

  • Arewa youths to Malami: stop blaming presidency, EFCC, go to court if you are clean

    Arewa youths to Malami: stop blaming presidency, EFCC, go to court if you are clean

    The Arewa Youth Advocate for Equity and Justice has asked former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to stop blaming the presidency or the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for his current investigation. 

    The organisation asked the former AGF to go to court to prove his innocence. 

    While addressing reporters in Abuja, National President of the association, Sani Zangina, noted that it is on record that the detained SAN was granted administrative bail by the EFCC.

    Zangina said, “As a seasoned legal practitioner and one who has attained the peak of the legal profession, it is expected that a SAN clearly understands the appropriate legal channels for seeking redress instead of resorting to public propaganda and emotional appeals for his release, rather than approaching a competent court of law, is not only unnecessary but also unbecoming of the revered status of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

    “Where there is any dissatisfaction with the conditions of such bail, or the need for its variation, the court remains the proper and lawful avenue for redress. Forgetting the way to court in such circumstances sends a wrong signal to the public and portrays a level of disrespect to the rule of law and the legal profession.

    “This development should serve as a lesson to all Nigerians, particularly those who once wielded enormous institutional powers. Institutions that were previously answerable to certain offices and individuals must now be respected and allowed to carry out their lawful duties without intimidation or media pressure.

    “The Arewa Youth Advocate for Equity and Justice wishes to clearly state that we are not in any way defending the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, nor are we apologists for any member of the former cabinet of President Muhammadu Buhari. However, as consistent advocates of equity, justice, and due process, we strongly believe that the rule of law must prevail at all times.

    “We therefore advise the detained SAN to immediately approach a court of competent jurisdiction to seek his freedom, if indeed he believes he is entitled to such relief. The court, and not the media space, remains the ultimate arbiter in matters of liberty and justice.”

  • Bauchi approves 100% salary increase for health workers, introduces rural allowances

    Bauchi approves 100% salary increase for health workers, introduces rural allowances

    The Bauchi State Executive Council (SEC) has approved a 100 percent salary increase for medical and healthcare workers across the state, with special focus on personnel serving in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

    The Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Sani Dambam, disclosed this while briefing journalists after an extraordinary meeting of the State Executive Council held over the weekend.

    Dr. Dambam said the new salary structure would be supported by the introduction of special allowances for health workers posted outside local government headquarters, aimed at improving service delivery in underserved areas.

    He also revealed that the council approved the implementation of outstanding promotions for more than 2,000 healthcare workers in the state.

    According to the commissioner, the decisions followed the recommendations of a special committee constituted to assess the financial implications of a revised scheme of service for healthcare workers.

    “The outcome of the committee’s work is a 100 per cent review of the existing scheme, which represents one of the most significant welfare packages ever approved for the health sector in Bauchi State,” he said.

    Dr. Dambam explained that the measures were designed to retain skilled medical personnel, boost morale, and strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in rural communities.

    He added that peculiar allowances, including outside-posting allowances, were approved to encourage doctors and other health workers to accept and remain in postings outside metropolitan areas.

    Health workers under the State Primary Healthcare Development Board, he noted, will also benefit from the allowances, thereby ending long-standing disparities in welfare benefits within the sector.

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    The commissioner further disclosed that the council approved access to car and housing loans for doctors and healthcare workers as part of efforts to ease their financial burden and improve their quality of life.

    To enhance accountability and efficiency, he said biometric and verification systems would be introduced across health facilities in the state.

    Meanwhile, the State Executive Council has approved N900 million for the recapitalisation of Yankari Savings and Loans.

    The Chief Economic Adviser to Governor Bala Mohammed, Alhaji Yahuza Adamu Ningi, made this known while briefing journalists on the outcome of the council meeting.

    According to him, the recapitalisation became necessary due to the strategic importance of the financial institution to the state’s economy.

    “The sum of N900 million approved by the state government will not only stabilise the bank but also enable it to expand its operations and contribute more effectively to the economic well-being of Bauchi State through regular banking services,” Ningi said.

  • Yoruba group donates gifts to child patients at Dutse general hospital

    Yoruba group donates gifts to child patients at Dutse general hospital

    A Yoruba socio-cultural group, the Okun Development Association (ODA), Dutse Branch, Jigawa State, has presented gifts to children receiving treatment at the Paediatric Unit of Dutse General Hospital as part of its end-of-year humanitarian outreach.

    Speaking after the presentation, the Vice Chairman of the association, Mr Ojo Jacob Olanrewaju, who led members on the visit, said the gesture was in keeping with ODA’s long-standing tradition of giving back to society, particularly during the end-of-year period.

    He explained that the association has a history of carrying out similar charitable initiatives, including visits and donations to orphanages, correctional centres and other vulnerable groups.

    “This is a culture we have sustained over the years. At the end of every year, we try to put smiles on the faces of our brothers and sisters who are going through difficult times,” Olanrewaju said.

    He added that this year’s outreach focused on the Paediatric Unit of Dutse General Hospital, where gifts were distributed to children receiving care in both the medical and surgical wards.

    “You can see that the children are happy. Our aim is to share joy with them during this season and to pray for their speedy recovery,” he added.

    He further noted that the Okun Development Association comprises members of the Yoruba community residing in Dutse, stressing that the initiative was part of their commitment to giving back to the community in which they live peacefully.

    The vice chairman also commended the Jigawa State Government, under the leadership of Governor Malam Umar Namadi, for improvements in the health sector and other critical areas of development. 

    He called for more inclusive governance policies to address the needs of marginalised groups in the state.

    In his remarks, a nursing officer at the hospital, Dr Nasir Auwalu, expressed appreciation to the association for the visit and urged other organisations to emulate the gesture. He noted that such acts of kindness help boost the morale of patients, especially children, during festive periods.

    Also speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Malama Binta Usman thanked the association for its support and prayed for the emergence of more humanitarian groups like the Okun Development Association in Jigawa State.

  • Over 200 Paikoro women receive empowerment support as Cassava processing centre is commissioned

    Over 200 Paikoro women receive empowerment support as Cassava processing centre is commissioned

    There was palpable excitement and heartfelt gratitude in Paikoro as over 200 women from vulnerable and low-income households received empowerment support from the Founder of the Future Pathways Foundation, Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa.

    The empowerment initiative, which featured undisclosed financial assistance alongside a bag of rice for each beneficiary, was carried out during the commissioning of a Cassava Processing Centre at Jabo Jere Ward in Paikoro Local Government Area of Niger State. 

    Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa graced the occasion as Special Guest of Honour, adding significance to the event.

    The cassava processing centre was initiated by the member representing Paikoro State Constituency, Hon. Umar Nasiru, who described the project as a major step toward strengthening agricultural value chains, creating employment opportunities and improving grassroots livelihoods.

    Hon. Nasiru commended Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa for her consistent, people-focused interventions, particularly her support for vulnerable women across the constituency. 

    He noted that the empowerment gesture complemented the objectives of the cassava processing centre by directly supporting household welfare and enhancing women’s economic resilience.

    The beneficiaries, drawn from communities across Paikoro, expressed deep appreciation for the timely intervention, describing it as a crucial lifeline amid prevailing economic challenges. 

    The atmosphere at the event was filled with smiles, gratitude and renewed hope as the women received the support, many noting that it would help stabilise household needs and support small-scale livelihood activities.

    In her remarks, Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa said the gesture aligns with the mission of the Future Pathways Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations, especially women, through practical and dignity-driven interventions.

    She stressed that no household should go to bed hungry and that every woman deserves a means of support, no matter how modest. 

    According to her, empowering women at the grassroots remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen families, enhance food security and stimulate local economic activity.

    She further noted that the commissioning of the Cassava Processing Centre complements the foundation’s broader vision of promoting self-reliance, value addition and sustainable livelihoods in rural communities.

    Community leaders and stakeholders at the event also praised the initiative, describing the collaboration between public office holders and private philanthropy as a model for inclusive development. They called for sustained partnerships and similar interventions to deepen economic resilience among women and vulnerable groups in Paikoro and beyond.

    The event not only marked the commissioning of a key agro-processing facility but also underscored the transformative power of targeted philanthropy and community-focused development in restoring dignity, inspiring hope and creating lasting social impact.

  • Amb. Lois Ihwo bags traditional title in Jiwa, dedicates it to God

    Amb. Lois Ihwo bags traditional title in Jiwa, dedicates it to God

    The Chief Executive Officer of Dee Utensils, Amb. Lois Andrew Ihwo has dedicated her recent conferment of the traditional title Trauraruwan Matan Kasar Jiwa (the shining star of Jiwa land) to God, her family, and the people of Jiwa.

    The title was bestowed over the weekend by the Emir of Jiwa, His Royal Highness Alh. Dr. Idris Musa, in recognition of Amb. Ihwo’s achievements, including her humanitarian initiatives, community impact, and the notable contributions of her company to the nation’s economy.

    Widely recognized for her philanthropy and mentorship, Amb. Ihwo has implemented numerous outreach programmes through her brand and personal initiatives, promoting skills acquisition, health awareness, and support for grassroots communities.

    Her coronation attracted dignitaries, community leaders, women’s organisations, and well-wishers at the Government Senior Secondary School, Jiwa, in FCT Abuja.

    Speaking at the event, Amb. Ihwo described the recognition as a rare privilege.

    “I know there are many doing more than I am, but God in His infinite mercy has chosen me for recognition by the Jiwa community. I am grateful and humbled. To whom much is given, much is expected, and I hope God’s grace will guide my steps to serve this community and our nation,” she said.

    Friends and associates at the ceremony expressed that she is truly deserving of the title. Her Royal Highness, Mrs. Roseline Ismaila from Adamawa State, praised Amb. Ihwo for her humility and sacrifice in serving humanity, describing her as a woman who brings succour to individuals and communities.

    Chief Julia Peters prayed for continued strength for the new Trauraruwan Matan Kasar Jiwa, noting that the title challenges her to achieve more.

    Renowned businessman High Chief Ifeanyichukwu Elemmuo commended Amb. Ihwo for supporting small-scale businesses and other initiatives aimed at community development.

    This traditional honour follows several recent recognitions, including a double honorary doctorate from American Management University, California, USA, and the Most Inspiring Entrepreneur of the Year award at the 15th Peace Achievers Award 2025 by Peace Ambassadors Agency.

    She has also been recognised as Abuja Female Entrepreneur of the Year by Top 10 Magazine, received the Excellence in Affordable Luxury Kitchen Solution award at the Africa–UK Trade & Investment Conference & Awards 2025, and her brand was honoured at the Business Day SME 100 Awards, highlighting fast-growing small and medium-sized enterprises.

  • Body lauds EFCC’s renewed fight against corruption

    Body lauds EFCC’s renewed fight against corruption

    • *Charges commission to recover loots linked to officials of last govt

    The Arewa Youth Advocates for Equity and Justice (AYAFEJ) has expressed satisfaction and unwavering support for the ongoing anti-corruption efforts of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under the current administration.

    The group said it viewed the recent actions taken against individuals under investigation for alleged mismanagement of public funds as a vital step toward restoring integrity, accountability, and public trust in government institutions.

    The organisation said this in a statement signed by its National President, Sani Ahmad on Thursday in Abuja.

    The group urged the EFCC and President Bola Tinubu to make sure that those responsible for the failure of late Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as a result of their betrayal of the trusts entrusted to them by him faces the consequences for their actions of stealing and destroying the trusts.

    According to the organisation, those involved never deserved any mercy or leniency.

    The statement said: “For too long, Nigerians—especially the poor and vulnerable—have suffered the consequences of corruption, embezzlement, and misuse of public resources. While many entrusted with national responsibilities under previous administrations were expected to champion the welfare of the masses, a number of them allegedly betrayed that trust. It is therefore reassuring to see that no individual, no matter how highly placed, is considered above the law.

    “We urge the EFCC and even the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make sure that those responsible for the failure of late Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as a result of their betrayal of the trusts entrusted to them by him faces the consequences for their actions of stealing and destroying the trusts. The advocates are insisting that those involved never deserve any mercy or leniency.

    “We specifically commend the EFCC for its firm action in inviting, questioning, and detaining top former officials currently under investigation, including former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami (SAN), in accordance with the law. As widely reported, these actions are part of ongoing investigations into alleged financial irregularities during their time in office. AYAFEJ emphasizes that these investigations are not acts of political persecution but essential steps toward transparency and justice.

  • Gunmen attack herders, rustle 168 cattle in Plateau communities

    Gunmen attack herders, rustle 168 cattle in Plateau communities

    Gunmen attacked herders and rustled no fewer than 168 cattle in two incidents in Barikin Ladi and Jos East local government areas of Plateau State.

    The state Chairman, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN),  Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, confirmed the incident to reporters in Jos yesterday, explaining that the first incident occurred around Nding community in Fan district of Barikin Ladi Local Government Area, where 137 cattle were rustled, while the second attack happened in Kukukah community of Jos East Local Government Area, where 34 cattle were rustled, but three returned home.

    Babayo said the affected cattle belonged to Alhaji Wada Sale, Abdullahi Yusuf, and Alhaji Talba Abubakar. He added: “Soon after the incidents, I called heads of security forces, including the Department of State Services (DSS), Operation Enduring Peace, and Police in the state, to inform them about the development. I also reported the incident to the Sector 4 commander in Barkin Ladi.”

    Ibrahim stated that the gunmen opened fire at the herders grazing the cattle and moved away with the cattle, forcing the herders to flee.

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    He said: “On December 10, the gunmen stormed the grazing areas and started shooting. They succeeded in rustling the cattle while the herders escaped the attack.The two attacks took place on the same day.

    “The first one happened around Nding and the cattle were moved to fan in fan district Barikin Ladi; 137 cattle were rustled in the area. In addition to that, 34 cattle were rustled in Kukhkah in Jos East. It is very unfortunate that while the herders were carrying out their lawful business, some trouble makers would attack them and rustle their cattle.’’

    Ibrahim further called on members and those affected to remain calm and allow security agencies to carry out their duties, urging the security forces to track down the perpetrators of the attacks.

    National President, Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Solomon Dalyop, however, dismissed any cattle rustling around the area.

     Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3rd Division, Nigeria Army, Lt.-Col Aliyu Danja, said they would inform the sector commander and the intelligence department for further action.

  • Group backs northern governors on trust fund, mining freeze, state police

    Group backs northern governors on trust fund, mining freeze, state police

    The Uba Sani Back2Back Movement (USB2B) has thrown its full weight behind the far-reaching security resolutions adopted by the Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council at their recent high-level meeting in Kaduna, describing the outcome as “the most decisive regional security action in many years.”

    Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday night in Kaduna, USB2B Director of Stategic Communications, Khadija Mohammed, said the group had carefully reviewed the Kaduna declaration against insecurity and concluded that it represents a bold, coordinated and long-overdue shift towards restoring peace across the North.

    Mohammed hailed the decision by the governors to suspend all mining activities for six months and revalidate existing licences, noting that illegal mining has long served as a major revenue stream for criminal networks.

    “For the first time, the North is taking a collective economic stand against those funding insecurity,” she said.

    Read Also: NGF to name best performing state in health care Friday 

    The Movement also applauded the establishment of a ₦1 billion monthly regional Security Trust Fund, describing it as a “landmark victory” for long-term stability. According to the group, the unified funding model will strengthen intelligence gathering, rapid response capabilities and cross-border operations—areas where states have previously struggled due to fragmented approaches.

    Reaffirming its long-held position, USB2B strongly endorsed the renewed push for state police, insisting that the North’s vast geography and evolving threats can no longer be managed by a centralised policing structure. 

    “State policing is not only logical—it is now a survival imperative,” Mohammed said.

    She further highlighted the prominent role of Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, whose “firm and strategic contributions” helped shape the clarity and urgency of the Kaduna Declaration. She noted that the Governor has become a “regional stabiliser and national voice on security reform.”

    The Movement pledged to mobilise public support for full implementation of the resolutions while engaging in advocacy and monitoring to ensure real impact across communities.

    “The North is standing together,” Mohammed declared. “Insecurity will no longer be tolerated, financed or enabled.”

  • ABU develops blueprint on agriculture, human capacity development for Zamfara

    ABU develops blueprint on agriculture, human capacity development for Zamfara

    Ahmadu Bello University has proposed a unified, evidence-based, and fully integrated intervention to address agricultural and human capacity development in Zamfara State.

    The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adamu Ahmed, presented the blueprint to His Excellency, Dr Dauda Lawal, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State.

    Prof Ahmed made the presentation when the governor came to the university to commission an upgraded departmental library at the institution’s Department of Political Science and International Studies.

    The governor, who is an alumnus of the university, having graduated from the Department of Political Science and International Studies in 1988, refurbished the library.

    Presenting the proposal to the governor, the Vice-Chancellor said the university developed the blueprint through its three leading agricultural research institutes – IAR, NAPRI, and NAERLS – as well as the Institute of Education and the Institute of Administration.

    The Vice-Chancellor, who acknowledged the effort of the governor in prioritising merit-based reforms in the state, explained that the proposal was at no cost to the Zamfara State government.

    He said the harmonised framework, as captured in the proposal, blends crop research and climate resilience, livestock innovation, last-mile extension delivery, and human capacity development into a single transportation agenda for the state.

    The interventions, according to him, would be run as capacity building in the mode of train-the-trainers and delivered largely via the virtual mode through the facilities of ABU Distance Learning Centre.

    The Vice-Chancellor explained that the goal was to restore crop and livestock productivity in the state as well as to strengthen the resilience of households and communities to climate shocks and challenges of insecurity.

    Read Also: Lawal commissions upgraded Political Science Library in ABU 

    He also said it was to train extension agents in modernized extension delivery systems, build institutional capacity of ministries, ADP, cooperatives, civil service, teacher service, and communities.

    Prof Ahmed further said the proposal was tailored towards transforming the state civil service through comprehensive capacity building programmes for senior, middle, and top directorate cadres.

    The Vice-Chancellor commended Governor Dauda Lawal for his administration’s decision to appoint permanent secretaries through rigorous examination processes rather than political favouritism.

    Ahmed also lauded Governor Dauda Lawal’s government for prioritizing capacity-building programmes, conducting training sessions for procurement staff, audit officers, and administrative leaders.

    Receiving the document, His Excellency, Dr Dauda Lawal, the Executive Governor of Zamfara, expressed his government’s immense gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and the university management for the passion to help transform the state.

    Governor Dauda Lawal, who said he would remain grateful to Ahmadu Bello University for shaping his life, promised to continue to give back to his alma mater.