The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Group urges dialogue over NUPENG’s planned strike on Dangote Refinery operations

    Group urges dialogue over NUPENG’s planned strike on Dangote Refinery operations

    A citizens-led coalition, Mass Action Against Economic Saboteurs (MAAES), has called on the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to reconsider its threat of a nationwide strike linked to the operations of Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

    In a statement issued on Saturday, the group’s president, George Priye West, appealed for dialogue, stressing that union membership remains a matter of individual choice as affirmed by law.

    NUPENG had earlier indicated that its Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch may stop nationwide fuel loading from September 8, citing concerns over the recruitment process of drivers at the refinery.

    According to MAAES, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery represents a major investment expected to create thousands of jobs, strengthen local capacity, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel. 

    The group urged stakeholders to support the project rather than allow disagreements to disrupt fuel supply.

    West also appealed to the federal government and security agencies to ensure that no action undermines the stability of petroleum product distribution across the country.

    “The right to join a union is guaranteed, but equally, the right not to join must be respected. What is important is protecting jobs, ensuring fairness, and promoting national interest,” he said.

    The group further called on Nigerians to remain calm and continue their daily activities, expressing confidence that constructive dialogue among stakeholders would resolve the matter.

    MAAES reiterated its support for the refinery, describing it as a key step towards achieving national energy security and economic growth.

  • Viral video sparks debate on Zamfara security challenges

    Viral video sparks debate on Zamfara security challenges

    A viral video of Zamfara State governor, Dauda Lawal, speaking on the security situation in the state has triggered wide debate on the challenges of tackling banditry.

    In the undated clip, where the governor spoke in Hausa, he explained that although his administration had procured 150 vehicles to support security agencies, he allegedly had no direct control over their deployment since such directives come from Abuja.

    Governor Lawal also noted that with the resources at his disposal, he could track the movement of bandits but stressed that addressing the crisis required greater coordination and authority over security operatives. 

    He expressed confidence that if given more control, the issue could be resolved within two months.

    “I swear to God wherever bandits are, we know. I know, I can show you on this phone wherever they are… I know, but we can do nothing,” he said. “If I am the one in power to give the directives, I swear this issue will come to an end in two months.”

    Zamfara has remained one of the states most affected by banditry in Nigeria, with rural communities facing recurring attacks. 

    On August 23, gunmen invaded Gamdum Mallam and Ruwan Rana villages in Bukkuyum Local Government Area, killing two people and abducting more than 100 residents. Earlier in the month, another incident in Kauran Namoda left 24 people dead, 16 injured, and over 140 kidnapped.

    Security experts say the video highlights the complexities of Nigeria’s security architecture, where state governors, though described as chief security officers of their states, lack direct control of security agencies.

    Dr. Usman Shehu, a Kaduna-based researcher on violent conflicts, said the governor’s remarks underscored the need for reforms that would allow closer collaboration between federal and state authorities.

    Meanwhile, discussions have reportedly begun at different levels of government on how to strengthen operations in Zamfara, with some suggesting a more coordinated national response to the crisis.

    Governor Lawal has yet to formally respond to the debate generated by the video, but expectations are high among residents that stronger measures will be taken to restore peace and security in the state.

  • Soldiers kill bandit in Kwara

    Soldiers kill bandit in Kwara

    • Recover bike, AK-47, others

    Soldiers from the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin on Wednesday killed one armed bandit around Lema-Daban Lema road of Edu Local Government Area of Kwara state.

    Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade Capt Stephen Nwankwo said one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine loaded with 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and a motorcycle were recovered from the hoodlums.

    “Troops were deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Patigi, in Patigi Local Government Area of the state on fighting patrol within Gbugbu general area, ” Nwankwo said.

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    “At about 12:10 am, the vigilant troops following a credible human intelligence on movement of armed bandits along Lema-Daban Lema road, Edu LGA of the state conducted ambush and subsequently made contact with the miscreants from the ambush site. In the ensuing exchange of fire, the soldiers overpowered the criminals with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray. During a subsequent exploitation along the bandits’ withdrawal route, the troops neutralised one bandit.”

    “The remains of the neutralised bandits have since been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action. To intensify operations and employ all legitimate means to eradicate criminal elements while safeguarding the lives and property of law-abiding citizens within its joint operations area.”

  • Dafinone felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Mawlid, urges unity, compassion

    Dafinone felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Mawlid, urges unity, compassion

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the occasion of this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid, calling for peace, unity, and compassion in line with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

    In a goodwill message marking the celebration, Senator Dafinone said the occasion was “a period of reflection on the life, virtues, and teachings of the Holy Prophet—whose message of peace, compassion, tolerance, and unity remains ever relevant in our time.”

    The Delta Central lawmaker urged Muslims in Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria to “use this season to pray for peace, unity, and progress in our nation,” stressing the need to strengthen bonds across ethnic and religious lines. “Let us continue to work together… to unite us as one people under God,” he added.

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    Dafinone further called on Nigerians to demonstrate love and solidarity in their daily lives. “On this special day, I also call on all Nigerians to show love to one another, extend a helping hand to the needy, and promote harmony in our communities. In doing so, we honour the Holy Prophet’s legacy and contribute to building a stronger, more united Nigeria.”

    Full statement: “As the Muslim faithful across Nigeria and the world celebrate this year’s Eid-ul-Mawlid, I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim Ummah on this auspicious occasion marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

    “Eid-ul-Mawlid is a period of reflection on the life, virtues, and teachings of the Holy Prophet—whose message of peace, compassion, tolerance, and unity remains ever relevant in our time. It is a reminder for all of us, regardless of faith, to embrace humility, kindness, and the spirit of brotherhood in our daily lives.

    “I urge our Muslim brothers and sisters in Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria to use this season to pray for peace, unity, and progress in our nation. Let us continue to work together across ethnic and religious lines to strengthen the bonds that unite us as one people under God.

    “On this special day, I also call on all Nigerians to show love to one another, extend a helping hand to the needy, and promote harmony in our communities. In doing so, we honour the Holy Prophet’s legacy and contribute to building a stronger, more united Nigeria.

    “Once again, I wish all Muslim faithful a joyous and peaceful Eid-ul-Mawlid celebration. May this season bring blessings, peace, and prosperity to our homes, our state, and our dear country.”

  • 400 trained on CNG automobiles in Kano

    400 trained on CNG automobiles in Kano

    No fewer than 400 youths in Kano state, aged between 18 to 28 years, have been trained on how to convert petrol-powered vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered automobiles in the state.

    Smartence Innovation, Safe Autogas, and Fond Motors conducted the training, which lasted for 30 days, on behalf of the Office of the Executive Chairman, Presidential Committee on Compressed Natural Gas.

    The trained persons were given certificates and kit staters at the end of the training, which is a pilot programme designed to build technical capacity for the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in the state.

    The initiative is part of efforts to provide Nigerians with cheaper, safer, and cleaner energy alternatives.

    The persons trained in Kano were given certificates at the graduation ceremony, held at Afficent Event Centre, Kano.

    In his speech at the closing ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI), Barrister Ismail Ahmed, said Kano was selected because of its status as Nigeria’s commercial hub and its potential to drive the CNG revolution across the North.

    He explained that the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to harness the country’s vast gas reserves, cut transportation costs, create jobs, and boost industrialisation.

    “With over 210 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves, Nigeria has no business depending on expensive and dirty fuels.

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    “Natural gas is cheaper, safer, and environmentally friendly. It is also the main raw material for fertiliser production and a key driver of industrialisation,” he said.

    He added that the pilot scheme trained young technicians and engineers on how to convert petrol and diesel vehicles to CNG, a technology, he noted, is capable of reducing transportation costs by 70 percent.

    “Kano is ready for CNG. If Kano, as the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria and West Africa, goes green, the impact will be felt nationwide. This initiative is about building human capital and igniting a new economy powered by gas,” he said.

    Ahmed assured that additional CNG fueling stations, conversion centres, and buses would be rolled out before the end of 2025.

    He dismissed concerns over reports of price hikes in CNG, stressing that the government’s focus was to expand supply and investment to make gas widely available.

    Kano State Commissioner for Renewable Energy, Dr Gaddafi Sani, who represented Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, hailed the federal government for choosing Kano State, with a burgeoning population of youth, for the programme.

    He noted that the state had already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of CNG fuelling stations, and was supporting a 25MW CNG power project at the Kano Free Trade Zone.

    “CNG will not only reduce transportation costs but also help mitigate climate change.

    “Kano is committed to supporting clean energy investments and creating opportunities for our youths, through training and retraining,” he said.

    Other speakers included representatives of the Ministry of Transport, the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), who described the initiative as a “landmark step in Nigeria’s energy transition.”

  • Jigawa council chairman backs Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda with power projects

    Jigawa council chairman backs Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda with power projects

    Chairman of Buji Local Government Council, Arch. Najibullah Falalu Tukur has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through the execution of infrastructure projects that enhance the social and economic well-being of the people.

    Speaking in a telephone interview, Tukur said the council is actively awarding development projects in line with both Tinubu’s agenda and the 12-Point Agenda of Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi.

    He disclosed that contracts have been awarded to reconnect 10 towns and villages to the national grid after more than 15 years of blackout.

    Additionally, work has begun on the re-electrification of the Yayarin Tukur–Kafin Madaki power line, which was vandalised and abandoned for over a decade.

    Tukur emphasized that the projects are part of his administration’s ongoing efforts to rehabilitate critical infrastructure, expand rural electrification, and drive socio-economic growth in Buji.

    He further revealed that the council had earlier approved the reconnection of the Kwari–Nafara to the Gantsa power line, which supplies electricity to 10 communities.

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    “This decision reflects our administration’s unwavering commitment to improving infrastructure, rural electrification, and the quality of life for our people,” he said.

    He added, “Similarly, our local council awarded the contract of connecting more towns and villages with the national grid in continuation with our effort of providing infrastructure that would improve our people’s economy. Electricity is very vital in that regard”.

    “The beneficiary towns and villages are Gantsa to Jibari, Tijiyo to Ahoto to Yayarin Tukur to Kafin Madaki Yayarin Tukur to Abore.”

    Arch Falalu emphasized his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises through the All Progressive Congress (APC) manifestos in accordance with Governor Umar Namadi’s 12-point agenda.

    He noted, “We remain committed to ensuring the timely delivery of these projects for the lasting benefit of our people”.

  • Banditry: Zamfara group urges Governor Lawal to collaborate with security agencies

    Banditry: Zamfara group urges Governor Lawal to collaborate with security agencies

    The Zamfara Good Governance Network (ZGGN) has called on Governor Dauda Lawal to work more effectively with federal security agencies in addressing the ongoing security challenges in the state.

    This call follows the circulation of a video in which Governor Lawal, speaking in Hausa, expressed concern about the limited control he has over security operations in Zamfara.

    In the video, he stated that although he had provided 150 vehicles and tracking devices for security agencies, he could not direct their operations, as orders could only come from Abuja.

    He suggested that with full authority over security agencies, banditry in the state could be resolved within two months.

    Reacting in Gusau on Friday, ZGGN President Murtala Abdullahi urged the governor to prioritize collaboration and coordination with the Nigerian military and other federal agencies, noting that synergy is key to tackling the complex security situation in Zamfara.

    “The governor’s remarks reflect the frustration many leaders face when dealing with national security matters,” Abdullahi said. “However, what is needed now is enhanced cooperation and consistent intelligence-sharing with institutions such as the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and the military.”

    He emphasised the importance of constructive engagement and noted that security remains a shared responsibility between federal and state actors.

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    Abdullahi also highlighted the sacrifices being made daily by security personnel across Zamfara and urged all leaders to support them with accurate information and logistical resources.

    ZGGN further urged the governor to strengthen transparency in the use of security intelligence and equipment, and to continue pushing for policy reforms through dialogue with the federal government.

    The group acknowledged recent security incidents in local government areas such as Kaura Namoda and Bukkuyum, where several residents were reported killed or abducted. It emphasized the urgent need for sustained, coordinated efforts to curb such violence.

    “We understand the challenges involved in security administration, and we encourage Governor Lawal to engage more proactively with all relevant agencies,” Abdullahi stated. “It is our hope that stronger partnerships will lead to more impactful solutions.”

    ZGGN also called on civil society, religious, and traditional leaders to support peacebuilding efforts, while encouraging communities to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities.

    The group concluded by reaffirming its commitment to good governance, accountability, and the safety of all Zamfara residents.

  • Agbese hails Abbas, Kalu for resolving FG–contractors standoff

    Agbese hails Abbas, Kalu for resolving FG–contractors standoff

    Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Philip Agbese, has commended Speaker Dr. Tajudeen Abbas and his deputy, Dr. Benjamin Kalu, for their swift intervention in resolving the protracted dispute between the Federal Government and indigenous contractors.

    Earlier in the week, Speaker Abbas, through his Chief of Staff, Prof. Jakes Dan Azumi, announced two special ad-hoc committees—one led by Deputy Speaker Kalu to address funding complaints of constituency projects, and another chaired by former Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Idris Wase to probe alleged lopsided recruitment in the National Assembly bureaucracy.

    Barely 24 hours later, Kalu convened an expanded meeting with Finance Minister Dr. Wale Edu, Accountant-General of the Federation Mr. Samsudeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, and about 100 contractors nationwide. His intervention successfully brokered a resolution, paving the way for contractor payments to begin on Monday, September 8, 2025.

    Speaking to journalists on Friday, Agbese—who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State—praised the Kalu-led committee for swiftly ending the contractors’ long-standing protests.

    He described the development as a reflection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ and proof that the 10th House is committed to the welfare of Nigerians, especially at the grassroots.

    “This swift intervention by His Excellency, Kalu-led Committee, has greatly solved more than half of Nigerians’ problems. You know a hungry man is an angry man. And it is when a man is hungry that he would appreciate a plate of food. These Contractors have actually been agitating, now succors have come their way, as they will be smiling at the banks as from Monday next week.

    “This is what only responsible and responsive leadership can give. We must give it to the Speaker and his Deputy! This is what we have known them for, and this is one of the reasons why the entire 358 Members of the House will continue to rally round them with support until the timeline of the 10th House is over; and we pray for the 11th House to be graciously blessed with the duo of Abbas and Kalu, again”, Agbese added.

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    He said, “The House under Abbass has played several strategic roles between critical stakeholders such as averting industrial disputes between the Federal Government and ASUU, FG and NLC, and most recently, conflict between the FG and the youths, where Mr. Speaker engaged young Nigerians in marathon meetings that lasted for days before amicable resolutions were reached.

    “What that tells us is that, with Tajudeen Abass heading a strategic arm of Government as Speaker, the President can always go to bed with his eyes fully closed as well as the youths and other stakeholders having a Government that they are sure will protect and serve their interest, irrespective of the hour of the day”.

    The lawmaker expressed great optimism that the development would no doubt make Nigerians happy, as those contractors have families, loved ones, and friends who depend on them.

    Agbese, however, called on the Contractors and the general public to keep faith with the current leadership of the House and the executive, trusting their various Representatives enough to work with the administration in delivering all the deliverables encapsulated in the 2024 and 2025 budgets.

  • Onjeh donates N1.5m to indigent families for Igede Agba festival

    Onjeh donates N1.5m to indigent families for Igede Agba festival

    Former All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for Benue South Comrade Daniel Onjeh  has donated ₦1.5m to indigent residents of Igede land to mark the annual Igede Agba festival, the most significant cultural celebration in Igede culture slated for Friday, September 5, 2025.

     The donation is to alleviate economic hardship and enable vulnerable communities to participate fully in the festivities.

    Speaking on Thursday at the inauguration of the committee constituted to equitably share the funds among beneficiaries in Igede and while delivering the terms of reference and method of disbursement to its members, Onjeh said: “The Igede people are great, hardworking, and peace-loving. They have been so good to me, and I have been friends with them for long. It is my greatest pleasure to celebrate the Igede Agba with them.”

    He also congratulated His Royal Majesty, the Adirahu Ny’Igede, Chief (Rtd.) CP Oga Ero, the paramount traditional ruler of Igede land, the Royal Council, and the entire Igede people worldwide, particularly those residing in Obi and Oju Local Government Areas of Benue State.

    The former Chairman of the Governing Board of the Project Development Institute (PRODA), Enugu, explained that this gesture was necessitated by the current economic challenges arising from the Federal Government’s economic policies, including the removal of petroleum subsidies and the floating of the Naira. 

    He urged the Benue people and Nigerians in general to remain patient with President Tinubu’s administration, noting that these policies are already yielding signs of economic recovery and stability.

    He further stated the government’s interventions, such as social safety nets and conditional cash transfers, were to alleviate public suffering. 

    However, he stressed that private individuals and organisations also have a role to play in supporting vulnerable households across Nigeria, including in Igede land and Benue South.

    He explained that the donation will benefit 300 households across all 23 council wards in Igede land, with 11 wards in Oju and 12 in Obi.

     “A Disbursement Committee, chaired by Hon. Dave Ode from Oju with Hon. Chief Ade Okpabi from Obi as Secretary, will oversee the disbursement,” he said. 

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    He added that other committee members include Hon. Opioko to supervise Obi LGA, Hon. Isaac Ogwochi to supervise Oju LGA, as well as Ode Elizabeth Ujor, Friday Ogor, Regina Obia, Edeh Ejeh, Okpokri Daniel Ogbaji, Odu Paulina Otaha, Amos Ita Igwe, and Okoh Moses Odeh (Agenda).

    After receiving the donation from Onjeh, Ode expressed appreciation on behalf of the beneficiaries. 

    “I want to, on behalf of the poorest of the poor in the Igede-speaking local governments of Oju and Obi, thank Comrade Dan Onjeh for his care and support to them for this year’s Igede Agba celebration. 

    “This philanthropic gesture, done not because Comrade Onjeh is swimming in abundance but out of sacrifice, will make them feel remembered and give them a sense of belonging, especially as most of them do not even know him personally. 

    “As chairman of the committee handling this exercise, I am not surprised, having known Comrade Onjeh for a while. He is a very generous person who always has the poor at heart. I am sure this wonderful gesture will certainly renew their hope. Thanks so very much, Comrade Onjeh.”

    Onjeh also commended Commissioner for Information, who hails from Oju LGA, for working with him to design the approach to selection and disbursement. 

    This framework was  handed over to the Committee as a template to ensure the grant reached the intended beneficiaries who truly deserved the support.

    Onjeh clarified that beneficiary selection would be based solely on need and conducted at random, without regard to political affiliation. 

    “This random selection is necessary since the resources available for disbursement are limited and not enough to cater for everyone in need in Igede,” Onjeh stated. “I therefore urge public-spirited individuals to step in and also give.”

    Highlighting the credibility and honesty of those chosen to disburse the funds, Onjeh expressed confidence in the calibre of the men selected to serve on the committee.

     He assured the Igede public that the money would reach the intended recipients, noting that the committee members had been guided on the mechanism for identifying and reaching out to the beneficiaries to ensure the funds were delivered directly to them.

    He also expressed gratitude to the Igede people for their steadfast support of Governor Hyacinth Alia and encouraged continued collaboration with the state government to advance state-level policies complementing federal efforts to mitigate the effects of the current economic reforms. 

    He highlighted that the subsidy removal and currency floating policies aim to eliminate fiscal waste and fraudulent multi-exchange rate practices.

    “The Igede Agba festival,” Onjeh said, “is celebrated annually on the first Ihigile market day of September. It marks the new yam harvest and embodies themes of thanksgiving, unity, and cultural pride. It includes rituals of gratitude to deities, communal feasting, cultural dances, and reconciliation ceremonies, reinforcing social bonds and agricultural traditions.” He stressed that the festival underscores the Igede people’s deep agrarian heritage, where yams symbolize prosperity and communal identity.

    He reiterated  call to privileged individuals to emulate the spirit of Igede Agba, which is a season of love and sharing, by supporting the needy, just as they do during celebrations like Christmas.

  • Group urges ex-power minister Aliyu to join 2027 Yobe governorship race

    Group urges ex-power minister Aliyu to join 2027 Yobe governorship race

    The Abubakar D. Aliyu Movement for Good Governance, a grassroots advocacy group, has called on former Minister of Power, Abubakar Aliyu, to contest the 2027 governorship election in Yobe State, describing him as “a bridge between experience and innovation” and “the steady hand required to sustain and deepen Governor Mai Mala Buni’s legacy.”

    In a statement by its coordinator, Mohammed Yusuf Ajiji, the group praised Yobe’s progress since its creation 34 years ago, noting that the state needs a leader who will strengthen and expand on the achievements of past administrations.

    The movement highlighted Aliyu’s record as minister of power, citing his role in boosting electricity generation, upgrading transmission networks, encouraging renewable energy investments, and institutionalising data-driven planning.

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    It also credited him with key interventions in Yobe, including the Potiskum Power Substation upgrade, expansion of Fika Government School, construction of bridges in Nguru and Tandari, road projects, and provision of solar-powered boreholes and streetlights across several communities.

    Recalling his decade-long service as deputy governor, the group said Aliyu earned a reputation for humility, accessibility, and grassroots problem-solving.

    “Governor Buni has laid a solid foundation of peace, infrastructure and human capital development. What Yobe needs now is a successor who will not only protect these gains but scale them up into a new phase of inclusive growth. Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu is that successor,” the group declared.

    A Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a member of COREN, Aliyu is a graduate of Civil and Water Resources Engineering from the University of Maiduguri.

    The group concluded by describing him as “an indispensable asset” whose experience and leadership are crucial for Yobe’s future.