The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Rep scores Niger Gov Bago high, applauds his vision, courage

    Rep scores Niger Gov Bago high, applauds his vision, courage

    Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Finance, Rt. Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi (SMA) has commended the Niger State Governor, Rt. Hon. Umar Mohammed Bago (Turakin Nupe) for his visionary, courageous and focused-based governance.

    Abdullahi, who represents, Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency of Niger State stated this in Abuja while assessing the performance of the governor at a media briefing on Wednesday.

    He said “As we mark the second anniversary of a new chapter in the leadership of Niger State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Executive Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Umar Mohammed Bago (Turakin Nupe), on two years of visionary, courageous, and people-focused governance.

    “Governor Umar Bago, affectionately known as the Farmer Governor, has in just two years redefined what it means to serve with purpose and integrity. His administration has been nothing short of transformational strides anchored in agricultural reform, inclusive governance, institutional revival, and bold infrastructural expansion. The results are not just visible, they are exciting.

    “Governor Bago stands tall as the first leader in the history of our State to personally visit all 25 Local Government Areas multiple times, outside of electoral campaigns. By choosing to undertake these journeys entirely by road, he has demonstrated a leadership style built on accessibility, presence, and deep engagement with the grassroots. This commitment is not ceremonial; it is personal, intentional, and deeply impactful.

    “Under his stewardship, Niger State has witnessed a renewed focus on sectors that directly affect the lives of our people. The creation of Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna, and the establishment of the IBBU Teaching Hospital are monumental strides in our educational and healthcare landscape. The Farmer Governor has also extended educational support through scholarship schemes that have enabled thousands of students to pursue higher education without the burden of financial constraints”.

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    The lawmaker noted that “Jobs have been created, young people and women have been empowered, and thousands of individuals have received long-overdue permanent and pensionable appointments. In the agricultural sector, Governor Bago has matched his title with action. Through the procurement of tractors and modern farming equipment, he has led a drive toward mechanized farming, reviving hope in rural communities and laying the foundation for food security and economic prosperity.

    “His respect for traditional institutions has also stood out. By engaging traditional rulers as partners in progress, the Farmer Governor has reaffirmed the central role of our royal fathers in peacebuilding, local governance, and cultural preservation, restoring dignity and trust to one of the most vital pillars of our society.

    “Security, believed to be the cornerstone of every thriving society, has seen significant improvement under his administration. Through collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and stakeholders, the State Government has achieved relative peace and stability across flashpoints that previously suffered from violence and unrest. The Governor’s proactive measures continue to provide a safer environment for citizens to live, work, and prosper”.

    According to him, “A landmark initiative that exemplifies Governor Bago’s grassroots development philosophy is the inauguration of the Ward Development Committees, with each of the 274 wards in Niger State receiving ₦3 million monthly for community-led projects. This bold policy decentralizes development, empowers communities, and ensures that progress is tailored to local needs and realities.

    “Equally commendable is his visionary approach to urban planning and infrastructure. The unveiling of a 20-Year Development Plan for Bida is a forward-thinking blueprint, one that I believe will secure long-term prosperity and structured urban growth for our historic town.

    “The ongoing construction of the Bida Ring Road and other key infrastructure projects across Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency and Niger State as a whole have improved mobility, reduced accident rates, and expanded commercial activity.

    “The decisive intervention on the long-neglected Bida–Minna Road project is another landmark achievement of this administration. After years of delay and unsuccessful attempts, visible progress is now being made on this critical route, bringing long-awaited relief to commuters and unlocking economic potential across the region.

    “Of national significance is the reactivation and utilization of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna, which has transformed Niger State’s air connectivity. Beyond facilitating commercial flights and attracting investment, the airport has now become a strategic hub for international travel, including direct airlifts of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

    “For decades, pilgrims from Niger State were compelled to travel to airports in Abuja or other states before embarking on their Hajj journey, a process often riddled with stress, delays, and logistical challenges. Today, under the leadership of Governor Bago, pilgrims are now airlifted directly from Minna, enjoying a smoother, more dignified, and more efficient experience. This single achievement marks a historic turnaround in religious travel operations and reflects the administration’s commitment to convenience, inclusivity, and citizen welfare.

    “In fact, the overall improvement in Hajj operations under Governor Bago’s administration has been nothing short of commendable. In previous years, intending pilgrims from Niger State often faced delays, logistical confusion, and the risk of missing critical rites due to last-minute interventions. That narrative has now changed.

    “The entire process from registration to departure has been streamlined, better coordinated, and significantly more respectful of the spiritual journey at hand. The pilgrims now travel with peace of mind, proud of a system that works and honors their faith.

    “These remarkable achievements in just two years have rightly earned Governor Bago widespread recognition and national accolades. His governance model, firmly rooted in visibility, accountability, and innovation, serves as an example for others to emulate.

    “As Niger State reflects on this milestone, I celebrate His Excellency for his courage, energy, and unwavering commitment to the development and dignity of our people. You have raised the standard of governance and restored confidence in public service. May this momentum continue, and may Niger State soar to even greater heights under your transformative leadership”.

  • Minister Olawande, Tinubu’s precious gift to Nigerian youths — Ododo’s aide

    Minister Olawande, Tinubu’s precious gift to Nigerian youths — Ododo’s aide

    The Special Adviser on Youth and Student Matters to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State, Oladele John Nihi, has hailed the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, as a precious gift of President Bola Tinubu to Nigerian youths.

    Nihi made this remark during a courtesy visit to the Minister’s office in Abuja today. He expressed his admiration for the Minister’s passion for youth development and his vision for a brighter future for Nigerian youths.

    “Hon. Ayodele Olawande is a precious gift to Nigerian youths from President Tinubu,” Nihi stated. “His appointment is a testament to the President’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians and unlocking their potential.”

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    The Governor Ododo aide commended the Minister for his innovative initiatives aimed at empowering young Nigerians, including skills acquisition programs, entrepreneurship development, and mentorship schemes.

    Nihi emphasized the importance of collaboration between state governments and the federal ministry in driving youth development programs. He assured the Minister of Kogi State’s readiness to partner with the Ministry to replicate successful youth development programs at the state level.

    The Minister appreciated Nihi’s visit and reaffirmed his commitment to working with state governments to ensure that youth development programs are implemented effectively across the country.

  • 4,400 children compete in Qur’anic recitation in honour of Tinubu’s late mother

    4,400 children compete in Qur’anic recitation in honour of Tinubu’s late mother

    A total of 4,400 young male and female Qur’an reciters from across Kano State are participating in the ongoing Abibatu Mogaji Tinubu Memorial Qur’anic Recitation Competition.

    Ten top participants were selected from each of the 44 local government areas, with judges including Islamic scholars from Algeria and Egypt overseeing the contest.

    Out of the initial pool, 440 contestants advanced to the zonal stages held at the Meena Event Centre, where they are now competing in five recitation categories: Juz 2, Juz 10, Juz 20, Juz 40, and Juz 60.

    Senator Basheer Lado, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters and convener of the competition, told journalists that 30 finalists emerged from each of Kano’s five zones after a rigorous selection process—bringing the total to 150 finalists, evenly split between males and females.

    The grand finale is set to take place on Saturday.

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    Senator Lado said the competition honours the memory of Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji Tinubu, the late mother of President Bola Tinubu, and celebrates motherhood, faith, and legacy.

    He emphasised that “the initiative is not a political gathering, nor is it tied to any campaign or partisan agenda.”

    “It is a tribute to a woman whose life was defined by her devotion to Islam and her impact on commerce,” he stated.

    “I am deeply honoured to convene the Abibatu Mogaji Tinubu Memorial Qur’anic Recitation Competition in memory of the late Alhaja Abibat Mogaji Tinubu, OON, MFR, a mother, matriarch, and a towering figure in both Nigerian commerce and Islamic devotion.

    “We are honoured to host renowned judges and scholars from Nigeria and Algeria, including eminent scholars from Al-Azhar University in Egypt, the second oldest and most prestigious Islamic university in the world.

    “Their presence speaks to the global significance and credibility of this competition.

    “The choice of Kano State as the host location was deliberate. Kano remains a beacon of Islamic learning and Qur’anic excellence.

    “The state has produced globally celebrated Qur’an reciters, including: Gwani Hafiz Mohamed Danbirni – 1st Place, Dubai (2003) and Gwani Mohamed Sani Lawan – 2nd Place, Saudi Arabia (2005).

    “May this initiative inspire a revival of learning, unity, and spiritual excellence across our great nation,” Senator Basheer Lado said.

  • Advocates double down on special seats bill for women

    Advocates double down on special seats bill for women

    The League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV) has intensified its nationwide campaign for the passage of the special seats bill aimed at increasing women’s representation in Nigeria’s legislative bodies.

    The proposed constitutional amendment seeks to reserve additional seats in the National Assembly, one Senate and one House of Representatives seat per State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for women, to be filled through party-led elections.

    The House of Representatives on Tuesday, July 9, passed the Second Reading, the Constitution Alteration Bill to provide Special Seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly (HB 1349).

    The bill was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu and 12 other members of the House

    If passed, the bill would add 74 women to the legislature, 37 Senators and 37 Representatives, in addition to three seats for women per State Houses of Assembly, substantially boosting female participation in governance.

    NILOWV, which has been championing women’s political inclusion for nearly three decades, says the measure is long overdue, citing Nigeria’s poor global ranking in gender parity within governance.

    “We cannot say we are practicing democracy when over half of the population, women, are structurally excluded from decision-making spaces,” NILOWV National President Irene Awunah-Ikyegh said during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday.

    NILOWV is an all-women Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) founded to help women play a larger role in government and public affairs in Nigeria in consonance with the Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action with a presence across the 36 States and the FCT.

    Citing the current legislative structure at the Federal and State levels, with four women occupying seats in the 109-member Senate, as well as a similarly low figure in the House of Representatives and across state legislatures, Awunah-Ikyegh decried the systemic underrepresentation that undermines the principles of democracy and inclusivity.

    While correcting seeking negative impressions about the bill, she emphasized that the bill does not confer automatic appointments, as candidates will still undergo primaries and general elections, only that they will contest within their parties exclusively against other women for the reserved seats.

    She also maintained that the special seat bill is a temporary measure designed to redress historical imbalances and strengthen participatory democracy.

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    “The provision will lapse after four election cycles, or 16 years, allowing women to compete on an equal footing in a more equitable political environment.

    “The bill is not a women’s bill, it is a democracy-restoring bill. It is about giving capable Nigerian women the chance to be heard and to lead,” she added.

    NILOWV also dismissed claims that the bill promotes discrimination, arguing instead that it creates fairness in a political system that heavily favours men through access to money, patronage networks, and influence.

    According to Awunah-Ikyegh, similar affirmative measures have worked in other African countries, including Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania, where women’s representation has significantly improved.

    She, however, explained that to avoid a repeat of the 9th Assembly, where five gender-related bills failed due to lack of support and grassroots mobilization, NILOWV is now adopting a new strategy focused on mass public education and rural outreach.

    “During the last attempt, much of the advocacy was limited to urban areas. The last time, by the time we reached the grassroots, the public hearings had already begun.

    “People had been misinformed that the bill was for Abuja women. Traditional rulers and community leaders knew nothing about it. This time, we are starting early.

    “All lawmakers are emotional when it comes to their voters. If voters start asking them, ‘Why are you against this bill that will help our daughters and our wives?’ they will listen.

    “We are also training community champions, particularly women and youth leaders, to serve as local advocates.

    “These champions will mobilize support, contribute memoranda during public hearings, and engage State Houses of Assembly, whose ratification is essential to the constitutional amendment process.

    “Additionally, NILOWV is working closely with religious and traditional leaders to build support from influential voices across communities.

    “We believe that their early involvement will help correct misinformation and lend moral weight to the campaign,” she said.

    She said it is time to redefine governance, empower women and restore Democratic balance, noting, “Governance is about making life better for everyone. Women bring empathy, social consciousness, and accountability.

    “More women in parliament will lead to more socially responsive legislation”.

    Evelyn Ugbe, the Chief Executive Director of Race Africa, explained that with support from the United Nations (UN) Women, NILOWV has identified 18 states where resistance to the bill is strongest.

    The states, according to Ugbe, have become focal points for targeted engagement and sensitization, “The campaign, branded “Her Seat in Parliament,” spans all 774 local government areas.

    “Through town hall meetings, stakeholder dialogues, and the production of simplified bill explanations in local languages, NILOWV hopes to galvanize broad-based public support that will put pressure on lawmakers,” she added.

    Chizoba Ogbeche, Vice President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and a member of the NILOWV consortium, urged all Nigerians, not just women to support the bill as the National Assembly prepares to hold public hearings in July, emphasizing that increased representation will lead to more inclusive policies in areas such as healthcare, education, and community welfare.

  • Dasuki gives 150 youths business grants, plans livestock, farm equipment for 1,000 farmers

    Dasuki gives 150 youths business grants, plans livestock, farm equipment for 1,000 farmers

    The member representing Kebbe/Tambuwal federal constituency of Sokoto State, Abdussamad Dasuki, has flagged off a major empowerment initiative aimed at boosting youth entrepreneurship and agricultural productivity in his constituency.

    As part of the programme, 150 young small and medium enterprise (SME) owners received a cash grant of ₦300,000 each to support and expand their businesses. 

    The flag-off of the new phase of his empowerment programme in Sokoto also featured the inauguration of a committee tasked with overseeing the upcoming distribution of 900 livestock and farm equipment to local farmers.

    The distribution will be coordinated by his Senior Legislative Assistants in charge of Tambuwal and Kebbe, Hon. Attahiru Danmadi and Hon. Adamu Haruna, to ensure equitable and efficient allocation across the constituency.

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    Also, 100 young people have been selected to benefit from solar-powered charging ports, enabling them to establish and operate mobile charging businesses in their communities.

    The distribution of livestock, farming tools, and solar charging equipment is scheduled for next week and is being conducted in collaboration with a government agency.

    These empowerment initiatives underscore Rep Dasuki’s continued commitment to economic empowerment, rural development, and youth inclusion in sustainable livelihood programmes.

    The elated beneficiaries were full of gratitude for the support from Dasuki to expand their businesses and give them a chance to overcome the current economic headwinds.

    Dasuki’s wife, Hajiya Jamila Wada-Dasuki, recently launched an SME support initiative for businesswomen across the constituency, empowering 400 hundred beneficiaries selected from every ward in the constituency with cash grants. A total of N10 million was disbursed to the women.

  • Two years of unprecedented transformation: The remarkable footprints of President Tinubu’s administration

    Two years of unprecedented transformation: The remarkable footprints of President Tinubu’s administration

    By Usman Ishaq Shehu

    Over the past two years, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has charted an extraordinary course of transformation, redefining Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape with bold reforms, visionary policies, and impactful initiatives that are already reshaping the nation’s future.

    This period marks a pivotal turning point in Nigeria’s development trajectory, characterized by impressive milestones across diverse sectors that underscore the administration’s unwavering commitment to growth, stability, and prosperity for all Nigerians.

    One of the hallmarks of President Tinubu’s tenure has been the empowerment of ordinary Nigerians through robust financial support schemes. Over 900,000 beneficiaries have accessed the Presidential Loan and Grant Scheme, a flagship program designed to stimulate grassroots entrepreneurship and economic participation.

    Complementing this, more than 300,000 students have benefited from the Students’ Loan Scheme, which is instrumental in enhancing access to quality education and equipping Nigeria’s youth for the future.

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    On the economic front, the administration has demonstrated fiscal prudence and strategic debt management by clearing over $10 billion in foreign exchange debt, relieving significant pressure on the nation’s finances and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s creditworthiness. This financial stewardship has been matched by a remarkable 3.84% GDP growth recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024, the highest growth rate in three years, signaling a robust and resilient economy poised for sustained expansion.

    Infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of the Tinubu administration’s agenda. There are over 440 ongoing road projects, including the construction of more than 2,700 kilometers of superhighways, aimed at boosting connectivity, facilitating trade, and opening up new economic corridors across the country. This infrastructural boom is not only creating jobs but also enhancing the ease of doing business and improving the quality of life for millions of Nigerians.

    The administration has also prioritized social justice and economic fairness through the implementation of a minimum wage of N70,000, ensuring a better standard of living for workers nationwide. Security has been another critical focus area, with over 13,500 terrorists neutralized, reflecting an uncompromising stance on safeguarding Nigerians and restoring peace to volatile regions.

    Foreign investment has surged under the Tinubu presidency, with commitments exceeding $50 billion in new Foreign Direct Investment. This influx of capital is further buoyed by an increase in net foreign exchange reserves from $3.99 billion in 2023 to an impressive $23.11 billion in 2024, underscoring strengthened economic fundamentals and improved investor confidence.

    The oil and gas sector has also experienced a revival, with over $8 billion unlocked in new investments, paving the way for enhanced energy security and increased revenues to support national development. Legislative reforms have been vigorous, with the passage of four landmark tax bills designed to modernize the tax framework and spur economic growth.

    To foster balanced regional development, five new Regional Development Commissions have been established, ensuring inclusive growth that reaches all corners of the nation. These commissions are tasked with coordinating development efforts tailored to the unique needs of Nigeria’s diverse regions.

    In summary, the first two years of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration represent a transformative era defined by visionary leadership, pragmatic policies, and tangible results. The Tinubu footprints are indelibly etched in Nigeria’s progress story, setting a strong foundation for continued prosperity, unity, and global competitiveness.

    Usman Ishaq Shehu, PhD Candidate, GMICCON

    Email: usmanshehu66@yahoo.com

  • Tinubu God-sent to lead Nigeria to greater heights – DOJ coordinator

    Tinubu God-sent to lead Nigeria to greater heights – DOJ coordinator

    Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, the National Coordinator of Disciples of Jagaban (DOJ), a pro-Tinubu support group, has described President Bola Tinubu as a divinely chosen leader committed to steering Nigeria towards progress and prosperity.

    Alawuje, in a statement issued on Monday, urged Nigerians to rally behind the President, assuring them that the current socioeconomic hardship is only temporary and will soon pass.

    “We acknowledge the hardships faced by Nigerians during this transitional period. However, these challenges are temporary,” he stated. “The ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda is not merely a slogan but a tangible plan that is already yielding positive results. The masses are beginning to experience the benefits of these reforms, and the future holds promise.”

    He called on citizens to remain patient and supportive, expressing confidence in Tinubu’s vision for a better Nigeria.

    “We urge all Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous and united nation.  Let us stand together, transcending ethnic, religious, and political divides, to build a Nigeria that future generations will be proud of.

    “We reaffirm our unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.  His leadership is a divine blessing, and with God’s guidance, Nigeria will emerge stronger and more united.

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    “Those unfamiliar with the historical context of Nigeria’s struggles may not comprehend the significance of the reforms currently underway.  While some have been politically compromised or are intimidated by entrenched elites, others remain fixated on perpetuating a system that benefits only a select few.

    “Before the Second Republic, Nigeria stood as the pride of Africa.  However, subsequent years witnessed a decline: the economy faltered, industries collapsed, and our import bills soared while exports dwindled.  The naira depreciated, and our national institutions weakened.

    “We commend all past democratically elected presidents since 1999 for their intentions to address these issues.  However, many were deterred by the enormity of the task and the prevailing challenges.  The system continued to deteriorate, and the nation’s structures neared collapse.

    “Enter President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a leader of unparalleled courage and foresight.  He has undertaken the monumental task of dismantling obsolete structures and instituting reforms aimed at long-term stability and growth.  His administration’s efforts to reduce the debt service-to-revenue ratio from 97% to 65% within 17 months are commendable.”

  • KEPA assures Kaduna citizens of safer, cleaner environment

    KEPA assures Kaduna citizens of safer, cleaner environment

    The Managing Director of the Kaduna State Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA), Yusuf Yakubu Arrigasiyyu, has assured citizens of the state government’s resolve to provide a cleaner, safer, and sustainable environment.

    This was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Administration, Alhaji Muazu Umar Maskaawa, and made available to journalists in Kaduna on Sunday.

    The statement called for strong synergy between Eco Blue Consultant and independent environmental cleaners to drive Governor Uba Sani’s environmental policy agenda in Kaduna State.

    KEPA emphasised the critical need for greater coordination and collaboration between Eco Blue Consultant and independent environmental cleaning contractors to ensure the full implementation and success of His Excellency Governor Uba Sani’s robust environmental policy.

    “The Authority notes that the Governor’s environmental policy is a cornerstone of his administration’s development agenda, aimed at creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Kaduna State for all citizens.

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    “In which the key components of this policy include improved waste management systems, increased public awareness on sanitation, enforcement of environmental laws, and promotion of public-private partnerships for environmental services.

    Speaking on the need for synergy, the Managing Director of KEPA noted: “The success of Governor Uba Sani’s visionary environmental policy depends on our ability to work together seamlessly.

    “Eco Blue Consultant, as a strategic environmental partner, and independent cleaners operating across the 23 LGAs must complement each other’s efforts. KEPA is committed to facilitating dialogue, coordination, and oversight to ensure no duplication, conflict, or gaps in service delivery.

    “KEPA is instituting a harmonisation framework that will include: clear definition of roles and operational boundaries, regular joint planning and review meetings, and feedback mechanisms for community input.

    “The Authority also calls on all local government councils, community leaders, and residents to support this collaborative model and take ownership of environmental cleanliness as a shared civic duty.

    “As Kaduna State continues to position itself as a model for environmental innovation and sustainability in Nigeria, KEPA reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability, and results-oriented service delivery.”

  • On malnutrition – and the YK Mules of Kwara PDP

    On malnutrition – and the YK Mules of Kwara PDP

    By Rafiu Ajakaye

    In December 2018, I was in Yola, Adamawa State, for a two-day media dialogue on Community Management of Acute Malnutrition. It was organized by UNICEF, DfID, and allied bodies to drive public advocacy on the crisis in which 33m under-five Nigerians were caught at the time. 

    That event was an eye-opener for me and my colleagues as experts detailed the factors driving the crisis. Malnutrition is not a function of poverty alone; in fact, ignorance and lifestyle may be bigger drivers of the menace. 

    Malnutrition could be found in the household of the rich, if the food on offer doesn’t  satisfy the dietary requirements for healthy growth of the child. Obesity is a form of malnutrition in growing children. While stunting and wasting are common among poor households, experts say ignorance may sometimes play bigger roles in snatching the future of the child. 

    For instance, a poorly breastfed child (from whichever social background) may suffer malnutrition. Similarly, any pregnant woman from whatever social backgrounds may give birth to a malnourished child. A pregnant woman who misses out on key dietary needs may give birth to a stunted child, regardless of her social standing. These are scientific facts which stress the role of education and advocacy in the fight against under-five malnutrition. 

    Therefore, malnutrition is a topic that should attract only serious-minded individuals to contribute. Kwara PDP voyeurs — which sadly includes a professor — should note this and join the advocacy to fight the crisis. 

    For the avoidance of doubt, the UNICEF did not at any time indict the state government in its report. Rather, UNICEF Country Representative Christian Munduate commended the efforts of this administration to combat the crisis.

    “Kwara State’s commitment to addressing child malnutrition is commendable. The Child Nutrition Fund enables us to double our efforts and reach more children with the essential nutrition they need. We hope this partnership serves as an inspiration for other states to prioritise child nutrition,” she said. 

    Kwara is just one of the 11 Nigerian states to sign up for the UNICEF’s Child Nutrition Fund, according to the official statement of the global body. Under the initiative, the state contributed a whopping $100,000 as counterpart funds to receive the Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), which is critical for the management of malnourished children. 

    Apart from the above, the administration has adopted policies and programmes that underpin its commitment to the wellbeing of the Kwara child: six-month maternity leave to encourage exclusive breastfeeding, school feeding programme, KwaraLEARN, widespread support for smallholder farmers and traders, the livestock productivity and resilience support project, and social protection like KWASSIP and Kwapreneur. 

    This administration has since signed up for nutrition-sensitive interventions such as maternal and infant young child nutrition (MIYCN) along with counselling and management of acute malnutrition in the state’s health facilities. This is in addition to the state policy on multi-sectoral plan of action, including community food demonstration.

    These do not fit the image of an unserious government. The PDP doesn’t have this record from their years. Maternal mortality was the worst in Nigeria under the PDP after the insurgency-wracked northeastern Borno state. In 2019, under-five mortality stood at 4.8 per 1000 live births. Today, Kwara has the least child mortality rate in Nigeria — at 2 per 1000 live births. 

    In 2019, Kwara wore the crown of shame in national immunisation coverage with monthly outbreaks of circulating polio disease. It was the worst in Nigeria. This is evidenced in the majority of Kwara LGAs not passing the National Lot Quality Assurance Survey (LQAS). Owing to a record of unresponsiveness, a worst form of which was seen in the UBEC blacklisting the state, the UNICEF left the state under PDP’s watch! 

    The PDP years were hardly a gold standard for anything salutary: the obnoxious law that awarded terrible pension packages was active throughout Ali Ahmad years as the Speaker. The diversion of UBEC funds, a big crime against the Kwara child, happened in those years, while the great Alimi Chalet was stolen from the people in those years. Teachers who mould the future of the children were not being paid in those years — just as promotion of workers stagnated in the ‘golden years’. The list is endless. So what was the law professor saying? I repeat: we won’t allow anyone to revise our history.

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    The national school feeding programme began in 2016. The PDP administration never enrolled until it lost power in 2019. The APC government enrolled in the programme in 2020. Even with existing gaps, access to public health facilities is many times better under this administration than PDP’s. So what is the chest-thumping about? 

    Prof Ali Ahmad’s claim that UNICEF declared Kwara fit-for-child in 2010 was a LIE —  a barefaced one. Kwara did domesticate the Child Rights Act in 2007, four years after Nigeria enacted it. Yes, but it wasn’t even among the first 10 Nigerian states to do so. It was a national trend that some northern states initially objected to on religious grounds. Today, all of Nigeria’s 36 states have domesticated the Act amid calls for improved implementation. 

    Much is expected from Ali Ahmad, a law professor, and his handlers must know this. At no time did UNICEF or any institution declare Kwara fit-for-child. The statement amounted to stacking the deck in the bid to glamorise the past. It is akin to what Gen Zs call YK Mule, an euphemism for outright lies. 

    Child malnutrition is a global public health crisis which requires all the resources and synergies that the government can mobilise. But that is where it stops: we should not find voyeurs from PDP, with their abysmal record, raising a whimper when such matters are discussed. 

    Rafiu is the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Kwara State

  • Kogi’s Yagba West group seeks rotational fairness in House of Reps slot

    Kogi’s Yagba West group seeks rotational fairness in House of Reps slot

    A group, The Yagba West Equity and Justice Advocate Group, has renewed calls for adherence to the long-standing rotational arrangement in the Yagba Federal Constituency’s representation at the National Assembly. 

    It urged Governor Usman Ododo, to support equity ahead of the 2027 elections.

    In a formal letter to the Governor, the group highlighted that since 1999, the House of Representatives seat has rotated unevenly among the three Local Government Areas that make up the constituency.

    According to the group, while Mopa-Amuro Local Government has held the position for only one term (1999–2003), Yagba East will complete three terms by 2027, and Yagba West has also enjoyed three terms.

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    “This historical imbalance has been a key reason the All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost the House of Reps seat in Yagba Federal Constituency since 2019,” the group noted, calling on the governor to restore political fairness by supporting Mopa-Amuro’s bid to produce the next APC candidate.

    Beyond the appeal for fairness, the group commended Governor Ododo for his exemplary leadership since assuming office. 

    It applauded his prompt implementation of the minimum wage for workers, his administration’s investment in infrastructure development, and the continuity of policies laid down by his predecessor, Yahaya Bello.

    “We appreciate your commitment to equitable governance, respect for zoning arrangements across the state, and efforts to sustain peace and unity in Kogi,” the group stated.

    Signed by Comrade Babatunde Idris on behalf of the group, the letter assured the Governor  unwavering loyalty and willingness to support his administration’s development agenda.

    The group emphasized that sustaining political balance in Yagba Federal Constituency would not only promote inclusiveness but also strengthen the APC’s position in the region.