The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Coalition lauds COAS for keeping insurgents, criminals under check

    Coalition lauds COAS for keeping insurgents, criminals under check

    The Coalition of Civil Society Groups Against Terrorism in Nigeria (CCSGATN) has lauded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Nigerian Army for their strategic and ongoing efforts in the fight against insurgency and terrorism.

    In a statement by the Coalition’s Convener, Oladimeji Odeyemi, the group praised the military’s resilience despite what it described as negative propaganda by politically motivated individuals. 

    It said the Nigerian Army, under Lt. Gen. Oluyede, continues to show remarkable commitment to safeguarding the nation.

    Odeyemi noted that independent findings indicate the deployment of intelligence, technology, and both kinetic and non-kinetic tactics by the Army has significantly boosted operational success in various theatres of war.

    He further highlighted the strengthened collaboration between the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the Northeast and Northwest, describing it as a key factor in recent gains against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandit groups.

    According to the coalition, the increasing number of victories recorded by the military is a testament to the COAS’s effective intelligence-driven strategies aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and curbing violent crime across the country.

    “The various clearance operations around the Country and the overwhelming successes of our gallant troops in safe guarding the Country are good signs that the current military hierarchy are doing something productive regardless of the challenging terrain and some otherwise offensive fake news and false narratives against the Military. 

    “Lt. Gen Olufemi Oluyede promised to lead from the front for the unity and security of the country and we can say that the Nigeria Army is lucky at this particular time in the history of the country to have a head that doesn’t just believe in the unity of the country, but is preaching it”. 

    “The Coalition equally commended the General Olufemi Oluyede giant strides in the areas of extensive renovation of dilabilated accommodation across all barracks and formations, while also appreciating the COAS for the innovative housing scheme and loans for personnel, this is indeed a moral booster for our gallant troops. 

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    The coalition also commended the Army for finding time to carry out Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) at intervals across the Country, noting that the diversity of the country is safe in the hands of the COAS when it comes to social responsibilities.  

    “The COAS and the troops have proven that the service remains committed to defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria while providing security to ensure that citizens are able to carry on with their lives without fear of harm as expected in a democracy.

     “Within the short period of time, the recent successes of the military are a befitting response to those that have been peddling pro-terrorist propaganda that the President Bola Tinubu administration and its military was not doing enough to protect the civilian population. Again, the naysayers have been proven wrong.”

    The coalition, however, called on patriotic Nigerians to continue to support the COAS and the troops, just as it urged the army to intensify its onslaught on terrorists, bandits and kidnappers in the country.

  • We need boarding schools for special education, Parents of PWD tell Zamfara govt

    We need boarding schools for special education, Parents of PWD tell Zamfara govt

    Parents and guardians of children with disabilities have called on the Zamfara state government to convert the existing School for Special Education in Gusau into a boarding facility and establish similar schools in each senatorial district. 

    They said the move would promote educational inclusion and better support for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the state.

    The appeal was made during a one-day stakeholders’ engagement on enhancing inclusion and empowering adolescent girls with disabilities through the Zamfara AGILE Project. 

    The event, organized by Media and Publicity Consult, held at Barade Bouquets Hall, Ja’iz Hotel, Gusau By-pass.

    In his presentation, the Managing Director of Media and Publicity Consult, Nasir Usman Biyabiki, outlined the objectives of the meeting. 

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    He said the forum aimed to identify and address the cultural and social norms hindering the education of adolescent girls with disabilities, while fostering collaboration with the Zamfara State Government and the World Bank-backed AGILE Project.

    Bashir Kabir, a representative of the AGILE Zamfara Project, reaffirmed the project’s commitment to dismantling barriers to education through community participation and sustained support.

    In separate contributions, the Principal of the Gusau Special School, AbdulAsheed Muhammad Jangebe, staff, and some parents revealed that over 100 students with disabilities had dropped out due to various challenges, most notably the lack of boarding facilities. 

    They stressed the urgent need for government intervention to enhance educational access and inclusivity.

    They further called for incentives to boost the enrollment and retention of adolescent girls with disabilities and advocated for the inclusion of skills acquisition programs in special schools to empower the students.

    Other challenges raised included mobility constraints and insufficient community support.

    Highlights of the event included a Q&A session, focus group discussions, and questionnaire distribution. 

    Hajiya Maimuna Adamu Dankwangila also donated writing materials to students with disabilities and their teachers.

  • Group seeks EFCC, NASS’ intervention on alleged diversion of constituency project funds

    Group seeks EFCC, NASS’ intervention on alleged diversion of constituency project funds

    The executive director of a non-governmental organisation, Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative (EBYTDI), Daniel Ejembi, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the National Assembly, and the Kaduna state government to intervene in the alleged hijacking of a federal constituency project intended for public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a, Chikun local government area of Kaduna state. 

    A statement issued by the Executive Director described the alleged diversion of public resources to a private entity as a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a.

    According to him, “This diversion of public resources to a private entity is a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a. We demand swift intervention by the Kaduna State Government, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the National Assembly to recover misused funds and prioritise education for all.” 

    The statement stated that the investigation reveals that a federal project sponsored by Yakubu Umar Barde, former member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, was alleged to have been unlawfully diverted to Fatima Academy, a private school owned by Abdulhadi Abubakar.

    Ejembi explained, “The project, initially earmarked for constructing a public school, was instead executed at Fatima Academy, which lacks registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).”

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    He added that the contractor, Amrah Farms Nigeria Limited (RC-1523474), with directors including Abdulyekin Bello Tahir and Bello Halimat Sadiq, executed the project in violation of its original mandate, lamenting that public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a faced severe deficits, including dilapidated classrooms, lack of sanitation facilities, and inadequate learning resources, exacerbating educational inequalities. 

    The Executive Director called for an immediate probe into the alleged diversion of funds by relevant anti-corruption agencies and also called for urgent construction and renovation of classrooms, toilets, and perimeter fencing in the public schools. 

    He also appealed for the provision of desks, learning materials, and safe water systems for students and advised on legal action against unregistered institutions like Fatima Academy and accountability for the involved parties. 

  • Gwarzo donates seven-storey building to NWDC as headquarters In Kano

    Gwarzo donates seven-storey building to NWDC as headquarters In Kano

    The President and Founder of MAAUN Group of Universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has handed over a seven-storey building to the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) to be used as its head office in Kano State.

    The President of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Israr, formally handed over the building to Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Ma’aji,  the Managing Director/ COE of NWDC on behalf of Gwarzo at a brief ceremony in Kano over the weekend. 

    He said the seven-storey building, located at No. 16c Murtala Mohammed Way in Kano, would serve as NWDC temporary head office.

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    Gwarzo said the gesture was part of his modest contribution to enable the newly established interventionist Commission to take off immediately and enable it to continue its important works in serving the people of the North-West region.

    Managing Director of the Commission, Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Ma’aji, extended gratitude to Gwarzo and the entire management of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria for the singular gesture, which would significantly enhance the Commission’s operational capacity.

    He said the generous gesture was a clear demonstration of Prof. Gwarzo’s love and unwavering support towards the immediate take-off of NWDC headquarters in the ancient city.

    “I want to use this opportunity to appreciate the Founder and President of MAAUN for his good contribution to the Commission, which will enable it to take off immediately,” Prof. Ma’aji added.

    The handover of the building was witnessed by Audu Muhammad Liman, executive chairman of AISD, as well as some management staff of NWDC and MAAUN, among others.

  • Barau’s foundation shortlists 215 candidates for 2025 domestic postgraduate scholarships

    Barau’s foundation shortlists 215 candidates for 2025 domestic postgraduate scholarships

    The Barau Jibrin Foundation (BIJF) has shortlisted 215 candidates for its Postgraduate Domestic Scholarships for the 2025/2026 Academic Session.

    Deputy Senate President Barau, in his efforts to expand educational access for young Nigerians, launched both foreign and domestic scholarship programs. Seventy students are currently pursuing postgraduate programs in India.

    A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Alhaji Ismail Mudashir, said the shortlisted candidates for the domestic postgraduate programs are invited for interview and screening on 20th to 21st April 2025 at the Bayero University, Kano School of Continuing Education (SCE), G/Dutse, K/Taya, Kano.

    He said: “On January 6 this year, the Barau I Jibrin Foundation opened the application for its Domestic Postgraduate Scholarship. The shortlisted applicants have been selected from the 44 local government areas of Kano State for physical screening and interview. 

    ” The program offers a unique opportunity for academic growth, research and human capital development in various fields of science and technology. 

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    “The programs include M.Sc. Artificial Intelligence, M.Sc. Robotics Technology, M.Sc. Cyber Security, M.Sc. Data Science, M.Sc. Information Technology, M.Sc. Software Development, M.Sc. Mineral Exploration, M.Sc. Hydrogeology & Environmental Geology, M.Sc. Oil and Gas Operations, M.Sc. Applied Geophysics, M.Sc. Metallurgical and Material Engineering, M.Sc. Climate Change Management, M.Eng. Mechatronic and M.Eng. Intelligence System.”

    Mudashiru said six universities, Bayero University Kano, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and University of Nigeria Nsukka, have been selected for the program. 

    He added: “We will continue to devise means to provide our youth with the needed education to compete favourably in the modern world. Education is the sine qua non for meaningful development.”

  • Insecurity: Governor Zulum should shun misinformation

    Insecurity: Governor Zulum should shun misinformation

    • By Dahiru M. Lawal

    The recent media scuffle between Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Borno Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, underscores the dangers of sensational headlines and misinformation in shaping public discourse and distorting reality.

    Zulum, in a public outburst, labelled a federal Minister as “naive,” among other unflattering terms, based on a misrepresented media report. While Minister Idris chose not to respond, the incident raises serious concerns about the media literacy of public officials—especially in the context of sensitive national security matters.

    More troubling is the way this controversy injects politicised narratives into the urgent issue of insurgency resurgence in the Northeast, potentially undermining joint efforts against Boko Haram and ISWAP through the weaponization of disinformation.

    At a time when Nigeria faces fragile security challenges, it is unfortunate that Governor Zulum admonished a federal official who has demonstrated professionalism and commitment to national unity. The circulating claim that Minister Idris dismissed the Governor’s security concerns and urged others to ignore him has no basis and only serves to inflame tensions.

    After reviewing official statements and credible news sources, there is no verifiable evidence to support the allegations made against the Minister. The one instance where Idris publicly rebuked a state over security was in September 2023 when he cautioned Zamfara State officials against politicising federal rescue efforts. Even then, his position was framed around fostering cooperation, not dismissiveness.

    In fact, the Minister has consistently acknowledged progress in Borno’s security landscape. In October 2023, he noted that insurgent control had been eliminated from all local government areas in the state, with security improving by over 85 percent. His recent comments on renewed terror threats were distorted by sensationalist reportage, and Governor Zulum should not have reacted with public outbursts.

    The Minister has since categorically denied making any disparaging remarks about Governor Zulum and reaffirmed the federal government’s full support for all state governments combating insecurity. This should have prompted discreet consultations, not public condemnation driven by misrepresentation.

    This type of premature confrontation is counterproductive. Rather than targeting a federal minister who has shown poise and restraint, Governor Zulum would do well to focus on fostering collaboration and trust—ingredients vital for defeating the remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP.

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    There are lessons in history. Under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, then-Governor Kashim Shettima—now Vice President—persistently sought federal assistance through quiet diplomacy and consistent advocacy. It wasn’t sensational rhetoric that brought results, but perseverance anchored in mutual respect.

    Governor Zulum must tread carefully. The fight against terrorism will not be won through ego, emotion, or media dramatics. It demands strategic thinking, verified information, and respect for institutional collaboration. Now more than ever, leaders must rise above misinformation and guide with clarity and foresight.

    The people of Borno deserve more than political distractions; they deserve results. They need a leadership that unites, not divides; that builds bridges, not burns them. Governor Zulum should channel his passion into constructive partnership, not polarizing rhetoric. That is the path to peace and victory.

    Dahiru M. Lawal, Executive Secretary, Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR) writes from Abuja. Email: mdlawal001@gmail.com

  • AYCF lauds Kaduna’s pact with World Bank, seeks public cooperation

    AYCF lauds Kaduna’s pact with World Bank, seeks public cooperation

    The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has applauded Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for his commitment to the state’s development through a strategic collaboration with the World Bank.

    AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, praised the partnership, which includes eight key projects valued at $885 million, as a major milestone in tackling critical developmental challenges in the state.

    Shettima highlighted that during a recent visit by Mr. Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Governor Sani outlined a clear and visionary roadmap to maximise the impact of the projects across sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare.

    “We applaud the governor’s recognition of the transformative role that the World Bank has played in our state, particularly through initiatives such as the Adolescent Girls’ for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, and the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Recovery Stimulus Programme (NG-CARES).

    Shettima averred that these projects have not only laid the groundwork for sustainable development but have also provided our youth with opportunities for empowerment and growth, adding that the governor’s commitment to expanding World Bank support into new areas, including the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) Project and the Resilient and Accessible Microfinance (RAM) Project, is a testament to his dedication to building a diversified and resilient economy for Kaduna State.

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    “As stakeholders in the future of Kaduna, we recognize the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the success of these initiatives” he stated.

    The AYCF urged all citizens to actively engage with and support the government’s efforts in implementing these projects, stressing that it is imperative that we work together to create an environment conducive for development, where the benefits of such investments can be felt by all, especially the most vulnerable among us.

    “We also commend Mr. Ousmane Diagana for his recognition of Governor Sani’s strong leadership and the effectiveness of Kaduna’s collaboration with the World Bank. Such acknowledgment is a reflection of the potential that exists within our state when we harness the right partnerships and leadership”.

    The AYCF said it stands firmly behind Governor Uba Sani in his mission to elevate Kaduna State to new heights.

     “We call upon all residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to join hands in fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity. Together, we can ensure that the benefits of these projects are maximized, leading to a brighter future for all citizens of Kaduna State” he stressed.

  • Easter: Northern CAN demands renewed security strategy, improved girl education in north

    Easter: Northern CAN demands renewed security strategy, improved girl education in north

    As Christians mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representing the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for renewed national sacrifice and a united effort to tackle insecurity, empower women, and prioritise girl-child education as vital steps toward rebuilding Northern Nigeria.

    In an Easter message signed by its chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, CAN condemned the ongoing violence in parts of the North—especially Plateau and Benue States—describing it as a blemish on the nation’s conscience and a serious threat to future stability.

    “The Easter season should awaken our collective conscience,” the statement read. “It is a time to rise above selfish interests, disunity, and fear, especially as Northern Nigeria grapples with insecurity, moral decline, and leadership failure.”

    The association expressed grave concern over the devastating impact of violence and displacement on families and communities and urged governments at all levels to act with “urgency, compassion, and conscience.”

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    CAN also called for a strategic shift in addressing the crisis, including compensation for victims of violence and the implementation of grassroots peacebuilding and trauma-healing programmes.

    Beyond the security concerns, CAN spotlighted the pivotal role of women in societal development, urging both government and communities to invest in women and girls through education and mentorship.

    “When we deny girls access to education, we threaten our collective future,” the group stated, adding that “a girl denied education today may become a mother tomorrow who lacks the tools to steer her family away from ignorance and extremism.”

    CAN referenced biblical figures like Queen Esther, Deborah, and Mary the mother of Jesus, as timeless examples of female leadership and courage, stressing that Northern Nigeria must begin to raise a generation of daughters “prepared for leadership and impact.”

    The statement further urged parents to treat the education and moral upbringing of their children as sacred duties and implored leaders to emulate Christ-like leadership rooted in service, accountability, and empathy.

    “As we celebrate Easter, let it inspire concrete action. Let it drive us to build a future where governance is anchored on justice and equity, where women are empowered to lead, and where children are nurtured in truth and love,” CAN concluded.

  • NESREA tackles improper chemical waste management

    NESREA tackles improper chemical waste management

    The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, NESREA has moved to tackle the escalating risk from improper chemicals and waste management in the country.

    The Director General, CEO, NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor said these chemicals emanate from hazardous industrial effluents to electronic waste and expired chemicals, stating that they are threats to the country environment, public health, and socio-economic stability.

    The DG who was represented by the director, inspection and enforcement, Dr. Christopher Beka disclosed this at the workshop of the United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, project inspection workshop in Abuja, with the theme, “Strengthen National Infrastructure and Human Capacity for Sound Chemicals and Waste Management in Nigeria”.

    Barikor noted that at the committee meeting a ground work for governance, collaboration and strategic oversight was laid out. This took the committee deeper into the technical and operational aspect of this project.

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    “The project is not merely a response to these challenges, it is a proactive step towards building a resilient system that safeguards our people, ecosystems, and future generations, by aligning with global frameworks such as the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions, as well as the Global Framework for the Sound Management of Chemicals, and Minamata Convention, we reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to international best practices and sustainable development.

    “The project’s objectives are clear and ambitious, aiming to strengthen legislative and regulatory frameworks for chemicals and waste management, enhance the capacities of regulatory agencies, industry actors, and other stakeholders, and improve national infrastructure for monitoring, disposal, and recycling”.

    Prof. Barikor said the initiative is not just a project for NESREA or UNEP; it is a national imperative. Let us work with urgency, precision, and a shared sense of purpose, as this workshop marks the beginning of our journey to translate plans into action, policies into practice, and challenges into sustainable solutions.

  • Group urges Tinubu to caution EFCC on Achimugu’s case

    Group urges Tinubu to caution EFCC on Achimugu’s case

    The coalition for Accountability and Good Governance has written President Bola Tinubu over the decision of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to declare businesswoman and philanthropist, Mrs. Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, wanted.

    The group in the petition, signed by its secretary, Comrade Martins Emmanuel, expressed concern about the conduct of the EFCC in handling the matter.

    The group urged the president to intervene to ensure the immediate cessation of all forms of intimidation against her, the restoration of her dignity, and a clear directive to the EFCC to adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and the tenets of justice.

    It also called for the restoration of her dignity and a directive to the EFCC to strictly observe constitutional provisions and uphold the principles of justice and fairness in its investigations.

    It said: “We write to you, as a non-partisan coalition committed to the advancement of accountability, justice, and good governance in our dear country, Nigeria.

    “While we commend the unwavering stance of your administration in the fight against corruption and the strengthening of institutions, we find ourselves deeply concerned by the conduct of the EFCC in its handling of the matter involving Mrs. Aisha Achimugu, a reputable entrepreneur, philanthropist, and global business leader.

    “Our attention has been drawn to the recent declaration of Mrs. Achimugu as “wanted” by the EFCC under circumstances that do not reflect the principles of fairness, due process, or the rule of law.

    “It is on record that Mrs. Achimugu, upon receiving an invitation dated 4th March 2025 from the EFCC’s Port Harcourt zonal office, promptly responded on the 5th of March, explaining her medical treatment abroad and respectfully requesting an extension.

    “Despite her proactive communication and further letters, including one addressed directly to the EFCC Chairman and duly acknowledged.

    “She was nonetheless declared wanted on the 15th of March 2025 without any reasonable justification or exhaustion of civil procedures.

    “What followed this declaration was even more disturbing. Operatives of the EFCC, contrary to the agency’s publicly stated policy against night operations, stormed her residence under the cover of darkness, without a valid court warrant.

    “Her elderly mother, young Children, family members, and domestic staff were subjected to undue harassment, intimidation, and public embarrassment.

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    “Valuables were carted away from the home, and the entire episode was carried out in a manner that suggests a carefully choreographed media trial rather than a legitimate investigation.

    “We are deeply troubled by the implications of such actions. Demonising an individual who has not been indicted by any court of law not only undermines the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution but also sends a chilling signal to local and foreign investors.

    “This is especially worrisome at a time when your administration is making concerted efforts to attract capital and business confidence into Nigeria.

    “Mrs. Achimugu is a respected figure with an unblemished record in both business and philanthropy. Her roles in nation-building, enterprise development, and charitable engagements are widely acknowledged.

    “The current public shaming orchestrated by the EFCC is therefore not just unjust, but also counterproductive to national interest.

    “We urge Your Excellency to call the EFCC to order and direct that the Commission returns to the path of law, decency, and due process.

    “The EFCC must be cautioned against its recurring pattern of media sensationalism, reckless declarations, and extra-judicial methods.

    “Let it be known that anti-corruption is best fought with fairness, transparency, and strict adherence to legal procedures—not by persecuting citizens under the glare of cameras and public scorn.

    “We also remind Your Excellency of similar excesses in the past, such as the ongoing controversy surrounding the Commission’s handling of the case involving the former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello.

    “These acts have only served to erode public trust and cast a shadow over the Commission’s integrity. We strongly condemn the unjust treatment meted out to Mrs. Aisha Achimugu and her family.

    “We respectfully call for your intervention to ensure the immediate cessation of all forms of intimidation against her, the restoration of her dignity, and a clear directive to the EFCC to adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and the tenets of justice.”