The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Radda tackling poverty, infrastructural deficiency, says Katsina female activist

    Radda tackling poverty, infrastructural deficiency, says Katsina female activist

    Katsina-based female Activist, Hajia Zainab Sada, has declared Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s administration is doing well on poverty eradication and infrastructural development.

    Sada, who is also founder of the Neighborhood Committee Network (NCN), a community-driven initiative that fosters collaborative governance, social cohesion and sustainability, told The Nation the present administration’s efforts towards alleviating the hardship through numerous actionable programmes, and infrastructural developments, have impressed citizens. 

    She also noted the administration’s recent distribution of farm equipment to assist farmers for food production across the state, declaring willingness to collaborate with groups, associations and corporate organisations to eradicate poverty and illiteracy in the state.

    She said : ’’In any case, the performance of His Excellency Mal. Dikko Umar Radda to be candid with you has been superfluous. So far, he has done extremely very well unlike past administrations in the state. Simply put, he has invested in the most critical sectors of the state, which if you are to prioritize and put them on scale of preference, we find that they are commendable.

    ‘’ if you take history back to North Central, up to Kaduna state, up to the point when Kaduna state was inaugurated on 23rd of September, 1987, to date, he is one of the most luckiest governor that at the end of his administration that has constructed 150 secondary schools. It is unprecedented. 

    Read Also: Gov Radda hails appointment of two indigenes into Sokoto-Rima River Basin Development Authority

    ‘’He has also embarked on the construction of about 361 comprehensive health centers. And these comprehensive health centers, as you know, of course, traverse virtually the 361 electoral votes of Katsina state. Other than, of course, the upgrade of so many comprehensive health centers to full-fledged general hospitals.

    ‘’And of course, the third most important area is infrastructure, infrastructure and development. You know that even this week, he has started commissioning the urban renewal projects with the commission of Kofar Soro to Kofar Guga Dual Carriage, amongst others “

  • Allocate forfeited 753 duplexes, apartments to military, Dansuki appeals

    Allocate forfeited 753 duplexes, apartments to military, Dansuki appeals

    Lawmaker representing Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency of Sokoto State, Rep Abdussamad Dasuki, has called for the allocation of a massive Abuja estate forfeited because it was tied to corruption to the military to address the housing needs of its personnel. 

    On December 2, 2024, Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the final forfeiture of an expansive estate spanning 150,500 square meters and comprising 753 duplexes and other apartments, located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.

    The forfeiture of the estate is the largest single asset the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has recovered since it was set up in 2003.

    In a statement on Wednesday to mark Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Dasuki, who is also the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Shipping Services, said the National Assembly must urgently work with the Executive in ensuring that these forfeited massive estate was allocated to the military to address the housing needs of military personnel.

    “Doing so is a moral obligation we owe our heroes in active service”, he said, noting that, “At this time that the 2025 budget is undergoing legislative input is an auspicious time to do so, even if it requires invoking the Doctrine of Necessity.”  

    He said an amended Appropriation Bill for funding of the completion of the housing units to make them habitable for military personnel could be sent by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly.

    While noting that the forfeiture is indeed a milestone in the fight against the hydra-headed problem of corruption, Dasuki said another milestone can be recorded in the use this forfeited estate is put to by the Federal Government.

    Dasuki said a major area where the wellbeing of military personnel and their families can be enhanced was in the area of housing. “We must ensure that those who keep us safe and their families have a decent place to lay their heads every night,” he said.

    According to him, adequate and decent housing is a critical need of the military, and lack of it often leads to stress, low morale, and physical and emotional strain that could undermine the capacity of the military to carry out its duties effectively.

    “We must be eternally grateful to those men and women who laid down their lives to keep us safe, secure and united as an indivisible nation. We must continually honour their ultimate sacrifice not only by paying glowing tributes to their memories, but also by ensuring that the noble cause they died for is not in vain.

    “As the nation honours its fallen heroes, we must not fail to cater for the welfare of those in active service. Those who have taken up the noble task to keep our nation safe and secure, and to defend our territorial integrity. While it is of great importance to provide them with the armaments to do so, we must also prioritize their welfare and those of their families.

    “By prioritising the welfare of the Armed Forces and their families, national security will be strengthened, operational readiness and effectiveness of the military will be enhanced, and our commitment to the well-being of those who keep us safe will be indubitable.

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    “We will also be showing clearly to these gallant men and women that bear arms in our defence that we are indeed grateful for their service to the nation,” the lawmaker said.

    He said addressing the housing needs of the military requires a concerted effort from the National Assembly and the Executive through strategic policy formulation, budgetary allocation and legislative reforms. 

    “But these is an urgent issue, and there is a low hanging fruit that can be plucked to address, significantly, a chunk of this housing needs of our military, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory”, he said.

    Dasuki called on the National Assembly to urgently work with the Executive in ensuring that this forfeited massive estate is allocated to the military to address the housing needs of military personnel. 

    “Doing so is a moral obligation we owe our heroes in active service… We must not allow this opportunity to slip by. It is the right thing to do for those who keep us safe,” he said.

  • Army Remembrance Day: Kaduna govt honours fallen heroes, visits wounded soldiers

    Army Remembrance Day: Kaduna govt honours fallen heroes, visits wounded soldiers

    As Nigeria observed Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Kaduna State government took steps to honour both the fallen heroes and the brave soldiers who have been injured in the fight against insurgency. 

    Following the annual remembrance ceremony at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in the state capital, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Liman Dahiru, accompanied by other dignitaries, visited soldiers recovering at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital. 

    The visit, which aimed to boost the morale of the soldiers, was a show of solidarity for the injured servicemen who have given so much in defence of the country.

    Representing Governor Uba Sani, the Speaker paid tribute to the fallen heroes, stating, “Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and we will continue to honour their memory.” 

    The ceremony, which was attended by top government officials, military personnel, heads of security agencies, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders, showcased a united front in honouring the nation’s soldiers and supporting their ongoing efforts for peace and security. 

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    Governor Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military in its efforts to maintain peace and security across Kaduna State. He also commended the military for their continued bravery and sacrifice in addressing insecurity in the state and the broader country. 

    In his speech, Governor Sani highlighted the importance of collective security efforts, pledging continued support for the military and all security agencies to ensure a peaceful and secure Kaduna State.

    He said: “We are here to remember our fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the peace and security of the nation. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and we will continue to honour their memory.

    “We commend the military for their efforts in tackling insecurity in Kaduna and Nigeria. Their bravery and sacrifice are appreciated, and we will continue to support them.

    “We will continue to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to ensure peace and security in Kaduna State.

    “We believe that security is a collective effort, and we will continue to work together to achieve our goal of a peaceful and secure state.”

    Additionally, he promised to prioritize the welfare of widows and orphans of fallen heroes, ensuring that they are empowered and lifted out of poverty.

  • Group appeals for release of funds for 2024 capital budget

    Group appeals for release of funds for 2024 capital budget

    The National Coalition on Accountability and Probity in Governance (NCAPG) has called on the Federal Government to release funds for the 2024 capital budget.

    It lamented the delay may lead to significant economic challenges, including stalled projects, increased unemployment and reduced consumer spending.

    According to the NCAPG, contractors’ inability to access funds has created a ripple effect across various sectors, leading to a decline in economic activity.

    Speaking at a briefing, its national coordinator, Igwe Ude Umanta, said many businesses, particularly those owed by the government for contracts executed, face severe financial difficulties, including defaulting on loans and laying off workers.

    “While we recognise and commend the Federal Government’s efforts to implement policies and reforms aimed at revitalizing our economy, it is evident that much more needs to be done to achieve stability and sustainable growth,” Umanta said. 

    “Apparently, Nigeria’s economy is presently experiencing significant challenges, exacerbated by limited liquidity, and a lack of substantial capital releases to contractors on projects execution.

    “It is very unfortunate that this worrisome reality has created a ripple effect across various sectors, leading to reduction in economic activity, largely contributing to stalled projects, and creating a surge in unemployment ratio.

    “Realistically right now, Businesses, particularly those owed by the government for contracts executed, are facing dire straits. Many companies which are unable to recover payments are defaulting on loans, thereby leading to mounting debts, layoffs, and, in some cases, closures.

    “Evidently, the Federal Government’s failure to make capital releases to contractors is at the heart of this economic stagnation. Capital projects are crucial drivers of economic activity, and the absence of funding for ongoing and new projects has led to significant setbacks, putting Capital release as missing catalyst which is very important to saddle the economy forward.

    “Firstly, it is a pitiable realisation that contractors have been unable to complete critical infrastructure projects, from roads to healthcare facilities, which are vital to national development. Secondly, it is observed that the lack of liquidity in the economy has limited the purchasing power of citizens, further compounding the challenges of inflation and unemployment.  

    “It Is indeed acknowledged that the federal government is currently grappling with significant fiscal constraints. However, it is imperative for the FG to recognize that capital releases are not merely expenditures—they are investments that stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve infrastructure.”

    The NCAPG urged the Federal Government to prioritise economic stability and transparency in governance.

    The group emphasises that the government must take immediate action to address the nation’s challenges, including prioritizing capital releases to stimulate economic activity and create jobs.

    Umanta added that the government should also introduce targeted interventions to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of the economy.

    Furthermore, the NCAPG recommended that the government develop a clear and transparent repayment plan for contractors and businesses owed by the government.

    Read Also: Group hails Oyebanji’s performance in office in 2024

    This will not only boost liquidity but also rebuild trust between the government and private sector players. Regular communication with citizens is also crucial, providing updates on the status of economic policies, reforms, and projects.

    The NCAPG commended President Tinubu-led administration for its efforts to implement policies and reforms but emphasized the need for tangible results.

    The group believed that the government can do better and the challenges facing the nation require a renewed sense of urgency and purpose.

    The NCAPG called on the economic team to report periodic progress before the implementation of the 2025 budget.

  • Coalition seeks action against Meta’s content moderation rollback

    Coalition seeks action against Meta’s content moderation rollback

    The National Online Safety Coalition, through its #FWDwithFacts campaign, has strongly condemned Meta’s decision to terminate partnerships with third-party fact-checkers and reduce content moderation efforts across its platforms.

    While the global implications are alarming, the coalition noted that the policy shift poses even greater dangers for Nigeria and Africa, where misinformation has previously fueled violence and societal instability.

    In a joint statement on Thursday, a coalition of organizations, including Gatefield Impact, the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa), Humangle, Dataphyte Foundation, and others, criticized Meta’s permissive approach. 

    They argued that these policies prioritize platform growth over accountability, thereby amplifying risks of misinformation and harm.

    Lamenting that Meta’s dismantling of fact-checking endangers African lives and democracy, the group warned that misinformation and orchestrated disinformation campaigns in regions like Nigeria have already proven deadly. 

    It noted that during Nigeria’s 2023 elections, for instance, false claims on social media fueled ethnic and religious tensions, with fact-checkers reporting up to 100,000 fake news items daily. 

    The group also cited another tragic example of a fake Facebook post in 2018 incited ethnic violence in Plateau State, resulting in 12 deaths,.  

    The coalition emphasized that platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp are integral to Nigeria’s information ecosystem, with millions of users relying on them for communication and news. 

    Read Also: Meta mulls new $10b submarine cable

    However, it said it is regrettable that these platforms have also become breeding grounds for misinformation, propaganda, and hate speech. 

    By dismantling fact-checking mechanisms, Meta risks amplifying these harmful dynamics, leading to real-world consequences, it noted.  

    Shirley Ewang, Advocacy Lead at Gatefield and campaign spokesperson, said, “Fact-checking is not censorship. In fragile contexts like Nigeria’s, ensuring informed public discourse is essential to preventing violence and societal discord. Meta’s decision to remove these safeguards is baseless and harmful.”  

    The coalition called on the Nigerian government and other African leaders to act decisively by mandating transparency from tech platforms like Meta, requiring them to publish strategies for managing misinformation.  

    The coalition also called on the Nigerian government to establish legal frameworks to hold tech companies accountable for the spread of harmful content, in addition to partnering with civil society organizations to educate citizens about identifying and mitigating fake news.  

    Furthermore, the coalition called for the development of culturally contextual content moderation guidelines in collaboration with civil society.  

    The coalition argued that African regulators must act quickly to prevent election interference, violence, and erosion of societal trust. 

    It urged Meta to reverse its policy changes and strengthen fact-checking programs in Africa, emphasizing the platform’s responsibility to safeguard public discourse globally.  

    “Social media platforms wield immense power over the flow of information and must prioritize the integrity of public discourse.

    “If these policy shifts can harm countries with stronger democratic protections, their impact on nations like Nigeria, where misinformation has proven deadly, will be catastrophic,” Ewang added.

    The group emphasised the need for African governments, starting with Nigeria, to implement robust safeguards to protect citizens from the ripple effects of reckless policy decisions by Big Tech.

  • Transcorp Hilton Abuja honours JCI Aso

    Transcorp Hilton Abuja honours JCI Aso

    Transcorp Hilton Abuja has been celebrated for its remarkable 24-year partnership with JCI Aso, earning a Partnership Appreciation Award during the 2024 JCI Aso Convention and Investiture.

    The organisation said the hotel has been a long-time partner in its mission to empower young leaders and foster sustainable community development.

    The award was presented during the 2024 JCI Aso Convention and Investiture, where the hotel’s commitment to youth development, leadership, and impactful service was celebrated.

    JCI Aso President, Amb Yetunde Adebisi, highlighted Transcorp Hilton’s pivotal role in advancing the organisation’s leadership, community service, and social impact initiatives.

    According to her, the hotel’s support has spanned key programs, including seminars, leadership training, and community outreach projects, all geared toward nurturing young leaders and driving societal change.

    She said: “Transcorp Hilton Abuja has been more than a partner; they have been a cornerstone of our success.

    “Their consistent support over the years has helped us grow as an organization and impact the lives of countless young people.”

    She also said the partnership has facilitated numerous events, such as JCI Aso’s Annual Convention and Investiture Ceremony, providing platforms for leadership development and collaboration.

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    “These efforts have been instrumental in empowering young people, with a particular emphasis on women’s leadership and social development.

    “Transcorp Hilton Abuja’s commitment aligns seamlessly with JCI Aso’s mission to inspire change and nurture future leaders,” she added.

    Adebisi expressed hope for the continuation of the partnership, acknowledging that Transcorp Hilton Abuja’s ongoing support was essential to JCI Aso’s mission of inspiring lasting change in the community and creating a brighter future for the next generation of leaders.

  • Tax Reforms: Northern stakeholders demand VAT reduction to 3%

    Tax Reforms: Northern stakeholders demand VAT reduction to 3%

    Stakeholders in Northern Nigeria have called for the reduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) to 3% and the relocation of corporate headquarters of banks and telecommunications companies to Abuja to address perceived inequities in the proposed tax reform bills.

    The demands were made at a town hall meeting organized by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), civil society organizations (CSOs), and other stakeholders at Arewa House, Kaduna on Thursday.

    The stakeholders criticized the current VAT distribution formula, which allocates revenue based on the location of a company’s headquarters rather than where goods and services are consumed.

    They argued that such a system disproportionately benefits certain regions, leaving others at a disadvantage.

    “Abuja, being the Federal Capital, should serve as a neutral ground for the corporate headquarters of these companies to ensure fair revenue distribution,” a resolution from the meeting stated.

    On VAT, the stakeholders demanded that the federal government reduce the rate to 3%, rather than increase it as proposed.

    Read Also: Northern governors not opposed to Tinubu’s tax reforms – Sule

    They said this would provide relief to struggling businesses and citizens already grappling with the effects of subsidy removal and inflation.

    The meeting also called for increased funding for agencies such as TETFUND, NITDA, and NASENI to sustain innovation and education, while urging the federal government to reconsider the tax reform bills entirely.

    Signed resolutions from the event were however submitted to Northern lawmakers, urging them to reject the reforms in their current form.

  • Northern forum praises Tinubu’s appointments

    Northern forum praises Tinubu’s appointments

    The Northern Initiative Forum for Growth has commended President Bola Tinubu for his strategic and inclusive appointments to key government positions, describing them as pivotal in addressing regional challenges across Nigeria. 

    Speaking at a press conference in Bauchi on Thursday, the group’s leader, Alkasim Nuhu Abdulkadir, lauded Tinubu’s fairness in ensuring balanced representation of officials from various regions, fostering inclusivity and national unity. 

    The forum also urged the President to appoint Bala Wunti as the head of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

    They argued that Wunti’s extensive experience in the oil and gas sector positions him as an ideal candidate to address challenges in the industry and promote development in the North.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu meets China’s Foreign Affairs Minister in Abuja

    Highlighting past examples, the group noted how appointing individuals from the Northeast to key roles, such as Chief of Army Staff or Minister of Power, significantly impacted national issues like the fight against Boko Haram and major infrastructural projects. 

    The forum emphasized that Wunti’s appointment would signal the government’s commitment to equity and economic advancement across all regions.

  • Northern youths debunk alleged bias in customs promotion

    Northern youths debunk alleged bias in customs promotion

    The Arewa Youths Advocate for Peace and Unity Initiative has dismissed the assertion of alleged ethnic bias in the promotions at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

    A statement on Thursday by the National President, Sani Danaudi Mohammed, noted that independent investigation did not show favoritism in the recent internal exercise.

    “Our findings, including information from credible sources like PRNigeria Factcheck, indicated that the initial examination was canceled due to irregularities,” Mohammed said.

    “That assessment, held on August 20, 2024, was for officers moving from the rank of Superintendent of Customs (SC) to Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC).

    “After the cancellation, the rescheduled examination was eventually conducted on November 8, 2024, in Abuja and Lagos, with improved oversight measures.

    Read Also: Tax Reform Bills: Northern youths stage solidarity rally for Barau in N/Assembly

    “Of the 642 officers elevated from Superintendent rank to Chief Superintendent rank, 374 were from the north, while 268 were from the south.

    “Also, of the 16 officers elevated for exceptional performance, 9 were from the north, including two from Kano, who got double promotions for outstanding work.

    “In December 2024, 1,419 junior officers were elevated, after which a meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance confirmed the promotion of 4,291 senior officers.

    “We commend the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for upholding the principle of merit and ensuring an equitable promotion process.

    “We advise the public to exercise caution and verify information before accepting it as factual. Spreading misinformation can have detrimental consequences,” the group added.

  • Lokoja monarch calls for constitutional roles for traditional rulers

    Lokoja monarch calls for constitutional roles for traditional rulers

    By Olaide Oyelude, Lokoja

    The Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV, has called for constitutional roles for traditional rulers.

    The monarch said monarchs are closest to people and the grassroots.

    The monarch made the call on in Lokoja while speaking during the commemoration of his one year in office.

    The Maigari said his role as a traditional ruler makes him to be accessible to the people, pointing out that the role enables him to have first hand information on what is happening to the people.

    He added that the constitutional   roles he was soliciting for traditional rulers would allow people have  improved well-being and improvement in their living standard.

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    He  insisted  that  traditional rulers remain the custodians of the people’s culture and tradition.

    The monarch described the office of the Maigari of Lokoja as a big task, pointing out that  because he was born into the Royal home with his grandfather and father as former Maigari, he was able to gather knowledge from them which had  helped him in uniting and galvanizing the people for development.

    He said: “ Based on my experience, exposure and as a widely travelled person, having worked in various places, made the task of leading the people an easy task for me.

    ” To be a good leader, one thing that should come to your mind is that religion and ethnicity should not be a barrier.”

    The Maigari revealed that as  part of his one year anniversary,  he was divinely inspired to visit health facilities in his dormain and  the vulnerable people to lend a helping hand to them.

    The Maigari also lauded Kogi Governor, Ahmed Ododo for the various developmental projects he was executing in the state

    His words: ”Governor  Ododo is doing extremely well. A lot of good things are happening in the State with salaries and pension paid as at when due. The Governor is accessible to all.”

    The Maiyaki of Lokoja, Alhaji Aliu Jiya Lawal. also in his remarka,said  the reign of the Lokoja monarch had been peaceful, adding that the kogi state capital  also witnessed development.

    Lawal pointed out that the one year reign on the throne of the Maigar Lokoja had met the yearnings and the expectations of the people of Lokoja.

    The Maiyaki of Lokoja, added that  the reign of the traditional ruler had greatly helped in uniting the people of Lokoja more than ever before.

    The Maiyaki added  that the reign of the Maigari had also revived the culture and tradition of the people which hitherto were not given prominence.

    Lawal  said the reign of the Maigari witnessed and attracted the influx of more people, who  relocated to Lokoja to reside.

    This, he added had led to the development and expansion  of the kogi state capital .

    “ Lokoja as a centre of Tourism has seen more tourists visiting Lokoja within a year on the throne of the Maigari,” the Maiyaki  added.

    He further disclosed that  several  long time unresolved disputes had been  resolved by the Maigari, praising  him for mobilizing the people of Lokoja in the development of the area.

    The Maiyaki equally said the Maigari raised the status and respect of the Traditional stool of the Maigari of Lokoja through Improved interactions with other traditional rulers across the Nigeria.

    He praised the Maigari that “in just one  year on the throne of his forefathers, the royal father has been able to build on the legacies of religious harmony amongst the two major religions.”

    The Maiyaki added that the Maigari had chosen a low key celebration to mark his one year in office.