The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Govt holds special thanksgiving, prays against banditry attacks, threats to peace

    Govt holds special thanksgiving, prays against banditry attacks, threats to peace

    The government and people of Katsina State yesterday in Katsina held a special ‘’Yaumush Shukur’’(thanksgiving day),was designed to express gratitude to God for His countless blessings and continued guidance in the state,as well as pray against banditry attacks and all manner of insecurity and threat to peace

    The event, which brought together religious leaders, government officials and community members, was held as a symbolic gesture of appreciation for the state’s historical significance and the progress achieved in recent times.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails Kaduna’s peace model as Kaduna, Qatar donate houses to victims of banditry

    Secretary to the state government (SSG), Abdullahi Garba Faskari, who represented Governor Dikko Radda, commended the organising committee and all stakeholders who contributed to the creation and continued development of Katsina State.

    He further described ‘’Thanksgiving’’ as not just a ritual, but a daily obligation for every devout Muslim.

    He said “Setting aside a day like this is of great significance. It allows us as a people to come together and reflect on the blessings of Allah and the journey of our state,”

  • Radda disburses N3.6b directly to development programmes

    Radda disburses N3.6b directly to development programmes

    Governor Dikko Radda of katsina state has empowered all 361 wards across the state’s 34 Local Government Areas with N10 million each for immediate community-driven development projects.

    This groundbreaking Community Development Programme (CDP), announced by the programme’s Coordinator, Dr. Kamaludeen Kabir, represents the largest single grassroots empowerment initiative in Nigeria’s recent history.

    He said “This programme is Governor Dikko Radda’s visionary initiative to turn Katsina State into a community-driven development powerhouse’’.

    Read Also: Radda’s approach to road infrastructure, key to Katsina’s development, says commissioner

    “We want to ensure that in every community, there is government presence—not just in theory, but in practical terms with staff, structures, and resources to regulate and improve the lives of our people.”

    “Each ward is regarded as a community under this programme because it is a micro society where people share common ethics and values within that particular area.”

  • High Court sentences ex-guard, cook to death for murdering master

    High Court sentences ex-guard, cook to death for murdering master

    A Katsina High Court 9, presided over by Justice I. I. Mashi, yesterday in Katsina, sentenced two men: an ex-guard and a cook to death for the murder of a former Commissioner for Science and Technology, Rabe Nasir.

    Nasir was reportedly killed in December 8, 2021, by hired assassins in his residence located at Fatima Shema Housing Estate, Katsina State.

    Read Also: Federal High Court to begin e-filing

    The court confirmed that Shamsu Lawal, a former guard of the deceased, and Tasi’u Rabi’u, who worked as a cook in Nasir’s house, poisoned the former commissioner, leading to his death after they failed to steal from him.

    Police evidence revealed that the deceased was poisoned, as medical investigation showed poison in his body.

    The Commissioner was assassinated in December 2021 after he returned to his home located at Fatima Shema Housing Estate, Katsina, where the police immediately launched an investigation and arrested one suspect in connection with the crime.

  • Radda to NYSC 2025 Batch B Stream 1: Katsina is home to Corps members

    Radda to NYSC 2025 Batch B Stream 1: Katsina is home to Corps members

    Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina state has assured the 2025 Batch B Stream 1 Corps members deployed to the State that its a conducive and a secure environment, urging them to be free, focus and ready to serve their father land stressing that Katsina state is a home of hospitality and heritage and that they will soon find Katsina state as a home away from home.

    Read Also: Gov Radda resumes after minor auto crash

    Earlier the NYSC State Coordinator Alhaji Ibrahim Saidu, welcome the Governor and presented the prospective corps members as disciplined, dedicated and ready to serve their father land

    Among the dignitaries and members of the press who graced the occasion were: the Emir of Daura Daura who was represented by the Sa’in Hausa, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi Bujawa.

  • Katsina approves N23.8b projects in health, security, roads, hospitality sectors

    Katsina approves N23.8b projects in health, security, roads, hospitality sectors

    The Katsina State Executive Council has approved a comprehensive package of strategic projects worth over N23.8 billion, targeting critical improvements in healthcare delivery, security infrastructure, road connectivity, and hospitality development across the state.

    Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe presided over today’s 9th regular Executive Council meeting, with Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda participating virtually to ensure seamless governance and uninterrupted decision-making processes.

    Read Also: Katsina engages Guardians Worldwide on CarbonCredit Initiative

    The Council also approved the upgrade of the Comprehensive Health Centre in Maiadua Local Government Area into a full-fledged General Hospital at N1.3 billion. Honourable Commissioner for Works and Housing, Engr. Dr. Sani Magaji Ingawa, explained that this project will significantly enhance healthcare access for women and children in the area.

  • Transcorp Hilton, NUJ-FCT pledge to strengthen strategic partnership

    Transcorp Hilton, NUJ-FCT pledge to strengthen strategic partnership

    In a move to bolster strategic partnership, a delegation from Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, visited the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Federal Capital Territory (NUJ-FCT) Council on Friday, August 1, 2025.

    The Commercial Director, Betty Aguiyi-Ironsi, accompanied by Ijeoma Osuji, the E-Commerce Manager—both the first women to hold their respective positions at Transcorp Hilton Abuja—expressed their satisfaction with the ongoing relationship between the hotel and the NUJ-FCT Council.

    The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ-FCT), Comrade Grace Ike, described the visit as a step in the right direction and expressed her delight at women taking centre stage. 

    She also praised the hotel as a key media partner in championing development.

    She said, “I want to appreciate Transcorp Hilton Abuja for graciously hosting the NUJ FCT 2025 Press Week Public Lecture. We do not take this for granted.”

    “No doubt, the hotel is known for its hospitality, and we look forward to more collaborations.”

    “Journalists in the FCT look forward to Hilton reviving the annual cocktail party—bringing together reporters and top senior editors after a year’s hectic work,” she added.

    Earlier, the Commercial Director, Betty Aguiyi-Ironsi, disclosed that their visit was to strengthen relations between the NUJ-FCT and Transcorp Hilton Hotel.

    While appreciating the role of the media as the watchdog of society, Aguiyi-Ironsi described journalists as frontline workers for national development, noting that their role cannot be overemphasized.

    “We are simply here to appreciate the media and pledge to continue our strategic relationship with the NUJ-FCT.”

    “Your publicity in ensuring we get the visibility we deserve cannot be taken for granted because we see the media as partners in progress,” she added.

    Miss Ijeoma Osuji expressed appreciation for the media support the hotel has received from the NUJ-FCT Council, reiterating that all media partners are valued, as the hotel’s relevance is largely credited to the media.

    Transcorp Hilton Abuja has consistently won awards on travel tours, including the NUJ-FCT Hospitality Award.

    The event was attended by members of the NUJ-FCT Executive Council, including Vice Chairman, Comrade Yahaya Ndambabo; Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle; Assistant Secretary, Sharon Emephia; Treasurer, Comrade Sandra Udeike; Financial Secretary, Comrade Henry Daniel Abimiku; and Internal Auditor, Comrade Rosemary Ukoko-Tega.

  • Arewa group urges Tinubu to consider Danjuma Sheni for appointment 

    Arewa group urges Tinubu to consider Danjuma Sheni for appointment 

    A group operating under the ageis of Concerned Arewa Youths in Home and Diaspora has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider Prof. Doknan Decent Danjuma Sheni, for a ministerial appointment, citing his notable contributions to philanthropy and grassroots development.

    This was contained in a statement jointly signed by Faisal Zubairu who is representing North-West, Aishattu Abubakar representing the North East and Olamilekan Tunde Ajayi representing North-Central of the group.

    The statement reads that: “Following the recent development in the APC, where Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, was elected by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to fill the seat vacated by former National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, who resigned due to health issues, the Concerned Arewa Youths in Home and Diaspora is calling on the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider Prof Doknan Danjuma Sheni, a renowned scholar, academia, educationist, and humanitarian, for the ministerial slot representing Plateau State.

    The group added, “With a proven track record of leadership, innovation, and dedication to public service, Prof. Sheni is an exceptional candidate for a ministerial position.”

    According to the statement, “Prof Sheni’s achievement in academia, education, and humanitarian works makes him a valuable asset to any government. “

    “As a distinguished academic and leader, Prof. Sheni has demonstrated remarkable expertise and dedication to public service, making him an excellent fit for a ministerial role.”

    The group added that: “Prof. Sheni is a renowned Nigerian scholar, academia, and educationist with a strong background in optometry. 

    “As the former Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University, Bokkos, he transformed the institution, ensuring accreditation of all courses and promoting staff welfare. Prof. Sheni’s commitment to human capital development led to collaborations with world-class universities, enabling Plateau State indigenes to obtain PhDs and Master’s degrees.”

    Read Also: 2027: Arewa Think Tank backs Tinubu re-election bid

    “Prof. Sheni is also an inventor with a patent, showcasing his innovative spirit and contribution to scientific advancements.”

    They stressed that Prof Sheni is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a grassroot mobilizer, known for his dedication to the party’s ideals. 

    He is also a member of the North Central Peoples Forum, Plateau Elders Forum, and Northern Elders Forum, showcasing his commitment to regional and national development. 

    Given his impressive background and achievements, we believe that Prof. Sheni is an excellent fit for the Plateau State ministerial position.

    “His leadership experience, academic expertise, and commitment to humanitarian work make him a valuable asset to any government

    “We humbly request that President Bola Tinubu considers Prof. Sheni’s candidacy for this role, leveraging his skills and expertise to drive policy and development in Plateau State.”

    The statement further reads that “The Concerned Arewa Youths in Home and Diaspora strongly believe that Prof Sheni has the potential to make a positive impact in the government. 

    “We urge President Tinubu to consider his candidacy for the Plateau State ministerial position, recognizing his exceptional leadership qualities and dedication to public service.

  • Northern group slams ACF chair for attacking Tinubu’s administration

    Northern group slams ACF chair for attacking Tinubu’s administration

    The Association of Arewa Progressive Minds (AAPM) has criticised the chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum’s (ACF) Board of Trustees (BOT), Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, for his recent attack on President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    Dalhatu had accused the government of neglecting northern Nigeria’s infrastructural development during an event hosted by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna.

    Led by its coordinator, Audu Dauda Aboki, the AAPM questioned Dalhatu’s credibility, citing his ineffective tenure as Minister of Power and Steel, where the Mambilla Power Project stalled, and his leadership of the New Nigeria Development Company, which failed to spur regional progress.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails Dele Cole at 85, celebrates legacy in journalism, diplomacy

    The group argued that while the north grapples with insecurity, poverty, and low school enrollment, the ACF’s criticism of the federal government lacks weight, given its leaders’ records.

    The AAPM also faulted the ACF for not holding Northern governors accountable, noting that states like Kano and Borno, despite receiving over ₦300 billion each in federal allocations in 2024, still face high rates of out-of-school children and insecurity.

    The group urged the ACF to focus on solutions, such as a regional performance dashboard to track metrics like education, healthcare, and security, rather than merely criticising federal policies.

    The AAPM emphasised that challenges like the 2023 fuel subsidy removal, which increased state revenues, highlight a broader issue of governance and accountability.

    “No state has reported inability to fund projects or pay salaries,” the group stated, stressing that effective leadership, not just funding, is critical to addressing the North’s challenges.

  • NAFDAC Kaduna rallies support for breastfeeding, launches sensitisation campaigns

    NAFDAC Kaduna rallies support for breastfeeding, launches sensitisation campaigns

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Kaduna, has joined the global community to commemorate the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week, calling for the integration of breastfeeding into sustainable health and development systems.

    The week-long campaign, observed annually from August 1st to 7th, is themed, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Systems.” NAFDAC says the theme highlights the urgent need for governments, institutions, and communities to build supportive structures that protect and promote breastfeeding.

    According to the North-West Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Mr. Dadi Nantim Mullah, breastfeeding remains a critical foundation for public health and plays a vital role in reducing child mortality, enhancing maternal well-being, and strengthening economic resilience.

    Read Also: Leo DaSilva urges NAFDAC to tackle fake drugs, deodorants in Abuja

    He noted that as part of activities lined up for the week, NAFDAC Kaduna will carry out sensitisation campaigns in churches and mosques across the metropolis, engage the media, and mobilise stakeholders through social media platforms to amplify the message.

    “Breastfeeding is a shared responsibility. By embedding it in sustainable systems, we give every child a healthy start and every mother the support she needs,” Mullah said.

    The agency stressed that prioritising breastfeeding goes beyond health—it requires deliberate inclusion in social and economic policy to ensure long-term impact and community resilience.

    NAFDAC, therefore, urged civil society, religious leaders, media practitioners, and the general public to actively participate in the campaigns and commit to building breastfeeding-friendly environments.

    “Together, we can secure a healthier and more equitable future for mothers and children,” the statement added.

  • Ribadu, Salihu donate relief materials to Yola flood victims

    Ribadu, Salihu donate relief materials to Yola flood victims

    Thousands of victims affected by the recent flood in Yola South Local Government Area of Adamawa State have received relief materials donated by prominent indigenes, including the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Mustapha Salihu.

    The donations mark the first phase of a planned relief initiative in response to the devastating flood that claimed 25 lives, displaced thousands, and destroyed homes and farmlands earlier in the week.

    To facilitate the intervention, Ribadu and Salihu set up a distribution committee, with other APC stakeholders—Mustapha Ribadu and Umar Marafa—also contributing N1 million each to support the effort.

    Speaking during the distribution exercise, Mustapha Ribadu said about 700 families from the seven worst-hit communities were targeted in the first tranche.

    Read Also: Nigeria was under siege before Tinubu’s administration — Ribadu

    “This is the first phase of the relief package brought by Malam Nuhu Ribadu and Comrade Mustapha Salihu,” he said. “Beneficiaries were carefully selected from the seven flood-ravaged communities.”

    Each recipient is receiving a bag of rice, a carton of spaghetti and Indomie noodles, cooking oil, and a cash token of N10,000.

    Mustapha Ribadu stressed that the gesture is purely humanitarian and not politically motivated. “Although APC stalwarts spearheaded this initiative, all affected persons will benefit, irrespective of political affiliation,” he clarified.

    He also revealed that the NSA has ordered additional supplies, including clothing, medication, mosquito nets, and a variety of food and non-food items, to further support the victims in the coming days.