The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Yuletide: Leaders must keep their promises for Nigeria to progress

    Yuletide: Leaders must keep their promises for Nigeria to progress

    In the spirit of Christmas, political leaders have been urged to emulate God’s example of keeping promises by fulfilling their commitments to ensure Nigeria’s progress.

    Reverend John Joseph Hayab, former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna State and CEO of the Christian Awareness Initiative of Nigeria (CHAIN), made the call during his Christmas sermon at the Baptist Church in Hayin Banki, Kaduna.

    Hayab, one time Special Adviser to former Governor Ramalan Yero, emphasised that both leaders and citizens must honor their promises to foster the nation’s development.

    “Christmas reminds us of how God kept His promise. As leaders and citizens, we must learn to do the same to move Nigeria forward,” he said.

    According to him, “One of the unique things about life is integrity, that’s what differentiates humans from animals and integrity makes you keep your word, our leaders and all of us as citizens must learn to keep our word.

    “There is something we call African time in this country, it is out of lack of integrity, because when you cannot keep your word and say you are coming at 5 for 5 you have already failed, so when people grow up in a community where they see their leaders promising and never fulfilling they see their parents promising and never fulfilling, they see things happening around them and there is no fulfillment and no one willing to fulfil the promise, it is assumed that that is the norm. 

    “As we celebrate Christmas, I wanted us to look at Christmas and the history surrounding Christmas. Christmas came as a result of God’s promise and God kept his promise. If truly you are celebrating Christmas and you believe that Christmas came for God, then learn this lesson of keeping the promise, be honest. If you are a governor, keep your promise, if you are a commissioner, keep your promise and if you are a local government chairman keep your promise and all other government officials.”

    He noted that if government officials keep to their promise, the country will change within two years adding, “Our biggest problem is that our leaders do not keep this promise.”

    He said, “A leader can attend 10 functions and say different things, but he is unable to do even one, he is thinking all the people listening to him at daft or simply do not understand and we are passing this kind of culture to our children and that is why, when you look back 50 years ago, from 1960 to today, we seem to be standing in the same place because people just think that, say it even when you are not going to do it. 

    “This is not good for a nation and it cannot work , in countries that people know what it takes, if you promise and fail, they will hold you accountable, but in this country, we are not holding people accountable. 

    “In the spirit of Christmas, look at how God kept the promise and challenge the leader to start keeping promises and see how things change very fast, for the better.”

  • Coalition seeks Tinubu’s intervention in UniAbuja VC selection process

    Coalition seeks Tinubu’s intervention in UniAbuja VC selection process

    A coalition of 25 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has called on President Bola Tinubu through the Minister of Education to intervene in the ongoing controversy surrounding the selection of a Vice – Chancellor for the University of Abuja (UniAbuja).

    The coalition under the aegis of Civil Society Coalition for Educational Development said this during the presentation of their report by one of its members, Dr. Wisdom Chinedu at the main gate of the University on Friday in Abuja.

    It criticised recent protests by some professors at the university, calling their actions as “unnecessary and counterproductive.”

    Chinedu, who spoke on behalf of the coalition, said the protest was part of a deliberate effort to undermine the reputation of the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Aisha Maikudi.

    “We demand that President Bola Tinubu, through the Honourable Minister of Education, wade into the ensuing crisis and give needed protection for the acting Vice Chancellor who is obviously a victim of ethnic gang-up, political orchestration, and desperate power mongers in the University of Abuja. This will prevent any attempts to ridicule his efforts in promoting youth and women’s leadership,” the coalition said. 

    It said: “We wish to begin by expressing unequivocally, our frustration and disappointment over the recent protest by some professors from University of Abuja over the appointment of a substantive Vice Chancellor in the institution.

    “It is an absurdity and a direct attack on due process, betrayal of their experience, and direct assault on the globally demanded agenda to have more women and youths in leadership.

    “We observed with incontrovertible evidence that the entire protest is about an orchestrated plan to discredit Prof. Aisha Maikudi, the acting Vice Chancellor who had previously served as Deputy Vice Chancellor without any record of failure or non-qualification. The desperation to pull her down because she is a woman, a youth, and a northerner is antithetical to the development of education in Nigeria, especially at a time when global attention is on harnessing the numerous potentials of young people, especially women, to boost growth.

    “In a long time, Nigerians have not seen professors engaging in such vexatious and demeaning absurdity, just to satisfy certain quarters that believe it is their exclusive right to decide what happens in the educational system. This act in academic circles is preposterous and requires to be nipped in the bud by ensuring that punishments are handed to those involved in the dance of shame.

    “We demand that the Nigeria Police invite troublemakers, as outlined in our petition, to serve as a deterrent to others.”

    It added: “The antecedents of leadership selection in the University of Abuja suggest that many have been victims of such satanic manipulation which eventually denied them their rights to be at the very top echelon of their careers. Hence, there is a need to step in and ensure a competent hand is not denied her opportunity to bring greatness to the institution.”

    According to the coalition, allegations of southern exclusion from the selection committee were “baseless and politically motivated.”

    “After looking dispassionately at the allegations, we discovered that the claim that southerners were not included in the selection committee was untrue and a desperate attempt to discredit the process, acting on the script of their sponsors,” the coalition added.

  • Adamawa philanthropist unites herders, farmers to foster peace

    Adamawa philanthropist unites herders, farmers to foster peace

    A renowned philanthropist in Adamawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Musa, has initiated a peace dialogue aimed at fostering harmony between herders and farmers to prevent recurring clashes in the state.

    The meeting, held in Kala’a, Hong Local Government Area, brought representatives from both communities together to discuss ways to resolve issues that often lead to disputes between herders and crop farmers.

    The peace dialogue coincided with Dr. Musa’s birthday celebration, transforming the event into a dual-purpose gathering at the Kala’a Primary School football field. 

    Dr. Musa, founder of the Emnamu Foundation, used the occasion to distribute cash gifts, wrappers, and relief items to women, children, and the elderly, continuing his longstanding tradition of humanitarian support.

    Highlighting the impact of the Emnamu Foundation, which has reached over 5,000 underprivileged individuals nationwide, Dr. Musa emphasized that his mission is not wealth accumulation but making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

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    “My hubby is to bring peace and freedom and to generally make people happy,” he said, recalling how he freed some inmates recently.

    The Nation recalls how Emmanuel Musa last Friday paid for the freedom of  51 inmates  in various correctional centres across Adamawa State with a pledge of scholarship to those among them willing to return to school.

    Musa’s Emnamu Foundation has for years been involved in various forms of charity, including donation of instructional materials, construction of classrooms and offices, conduct of free medical outreaches, distribution of medical equipment, payment of medical bills, donation of wheel chairs, distribution of food and nonfood items, among others. 

  • Gov Aliyu launches cash grants for 9,700 beneficiaries in Sokoto

    Gov Aliyu launches cash grants for 9,700 beneficiaries in Sokoto

    Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, on Friday inaugurated the disbursement of cash grants to 9,700 beneficiaries, urging them to invest the funds in profitable ventures that will generate income and promote self-reliance.

    “Today, 9,700 beneficiaries will start receiving alerts of N75,000, N100,000, and N150,000 each,” the governor assured during the event held at the Government House, Sokoto.

    Governor Aliyu highlighted his administration’s efforts to address a backlog of social cash transfers, noting that his government inherited four months of unpaid N40,000 grants for 1,950 beneficiaries. 

    He disclosed that 640 beneficiaries who had corrected their BVN and NIN details in line with CBN regulations had started receiving their alerts, with reconciliation and payments for others ongoing.

    The initiative, under the Livelihood Grant and Social Cash Transfer Payment schemes, is part of the state’s Sokoto Community Action for Resilient and Economic Stimulus (SOSCARES) program. 

    The programme aims to reduce poverty, improve living conditions, and foster self-reliance among Sokoto residents.

    Governor Aliyu also detailed other achievements of his administration, including: “N1.5 billion disbursed to over 8,300 beneficiaries under the Small and Medium Enterprises Scheme.

    “Support for over 48,000 smallholder farmers through agricultural inputs under the Fadama CARES initiative.

    “Construction of rural roads across the three senatorial zones to ease farming activities and market access.

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    “Distribution of grinding machines and small ruminants to hundreds of beneficiaries at no cost.

    The governor announced the immediate enrollment of 3,000 new beneficiaries under Social Cash Transfers, 10,000 under Livelihood Grants, and over 13,000 under Operational Grants to SMEs. 

    He praised partners for their support in making the poverty reduction programs successful, reiterating his commitment to leaving no one behind.

    The development adds to a series of impactful social interventions implemented by the Aliyu administration, benefiting thousands of residents in less than two years.

  • Hadejia River Basin boss commends Tinubu for distributing fertilizer to farmers

    Hadejia River Basin boss commends Tinubu for distributing fertilizer to farmers

    Newly appointed Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, has commended President Bola Tinubu for distributing fertilizer to farmers for the dry season farming.

    “The tons of fertilizer you have provided to farmers for this dry season farming is unprecedented and worthy of mention,” he stated.

    Bichi’s kudos to Tinubu was contained in his letter of appreciation to the president for finding him suitable for appointment as the MD of the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority.

    Read Also: Imo community decry alleged extortion, harassment of youths by security personnel

    Bichi, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Kano State, stated that the president has demonstrated an “unparalleled commitment” to providing food security through his indomitable support for Agriculture by providing the necessary inputs to practical farmers.

    “As the MD of the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, I am eager to collaborate with all stakeholders to harness the potential of the authority.

    “We will focus on improving food security and economic development in the region, leveraging the authority’s expertise in water resources management and agricultural development.

  • Buhari condoles Jigawa governor over double tragedy

    Buhari condoles Jigawa governor over double tragedy

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep sympathy to Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State over the loss of his mother and son within 24 hours.

    In a heartfelt phone call, Buhari described the sequence of events as “painful and terrifying,” but urged the governor to find solace in the divine will of Allah, “Who gives and takes away life.”

    In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, the former President acknowledged the profound impact of the tragedy, noting that “anyone who believes in humanity would be touched by this double tragedy.”

    Read Also: Imo community decry alleged extortion, harassment of youths by security personnel

    He encouraged Governor Namadi to use this difficult period to strengthen his faith in Allah and recommit himself to serving the people of Jigawa State.

    “I convey my heartfelt condolences to the members of your family and the large number of your friends and admirers, and to the government and the entire people of the state,” Buhari said.

    Buhari’s message of solidarity and prayer highlights the shared grief and resilience of the Jigawa community in the face of such a profound loss.

  • Youth creativity shines as Daniel Izu wins SDGs short film challenge in Abuja

    Youth creativity shines as Daniel Izu wins SDGs short film challenge in Abuja

    Nigerian filmmaker, Eze Izu Daniel, captivated audiences and judges alike to emerge as the winner of the 2024 SDGs Short Film Challenge with his compelling entry, ‘Wasted’. 

    The event, held at the Silverbird Cinema in Abuja, celebrated the innovative power of young filmmakers in raising awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    Daniel’s film triumphed over 2,249 entries from 119 countries, showcasing the global appeal and impact of the challenge. 

    The story of ‘Wasted’ resonates deeply, focusing on the struggles of a young person whose pursuit of confidence leads to drug addiction, ultimately spotlighting SDG Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being.

    Speaking after his victory, Daniel expressed gratitude, saying, “I feel like the hard work is paying off gradually.”

    The challenge wasn’t just a local affair; international entries highlighted the universality of the SDGs. 

    Iranian filmmaker Mahmood Pouyandah’s British Passport won Best International Film, while India’s Akansha Tiwari took home the Best Documentary award for Imperishable. 

    Other winners included Carbon Traces by the USA’s Stafie Gan for Best Animation and Alone by Stephen Shenboyejo, which earned the Viewers’ Choice Award.

    The grand finale celebrated more than just filmmaking; it was a showcase of youth-driven innovation aimed at fostering sustainable development. 

    Organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs), the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), and FreshNEWS Multimedia, the event provided a platform for young creatives to address critical issues such as climate change, gender inequality, and public health.

    “This challenge harnesses the storytelling power of film to amplify youth voices, foster creativity, and inspire collective action,” noted Elsie Attafuah, UN Resident/Humanitarian Coordinator. 

    From its modest beginnings in 2023 with 73 entries, the SDGs Short Film Challenge has grown exponentially. 

    This year’s record-breaking participation underscores the increasing engagement of young filmmakers in global issues.

    Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, praised the initiative, saying, “By harnessing the creativity of youth, the SDGs Short Film Challenge provides a platform for showcasing diverse perspectives and igniting action. 

    “The remarkable response this year signals a growing commitment among young people to drive sustainable development,” she said.

    Beyond the glitz of the awards ceremony, the event served as a clarion call for youth to take charge of sustainable development. 

    Through engaging storytelling and innovative filmmaking, the participants are not only entertaining but also educating and mobilising action towards achieving the SDGs.

  • Women’s group defends AGF Madein

    Women’s group defends AGF Madein

    The Nigeria Women Professional Alliance (NWPA) has voiced its support for the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, urging her to remain committed to her role despite alleged attempts to prematurely end her tenure, which is set to expire in March 2025. 

    The civil society organisation stated that the AGF has not violated any laws and should be allowed to concentrate on her job, away from what they decried as “relentless efforts to dubiously remove the AGF from office.” 

    Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring that Madein remains in office until her tenure ends, the group described the decision as a demonstration of statesmanship and quality leadership. 

    Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja on Thursday, NWPA Spokesperson Christine Ezekwe dismissed media reports suggesting that Mrs. Madein was refusing to proceed on terminal leave, which she emphasised is optional under the law. 

    Read Also: Group seeks support for moringa farming

    She also refuted allegations of victimisation against a director in the Office of the AGF, who was reassigned to a training institute after an initial announcement of her appointment as Acting AGF was reversed. 

    “Since when has routine posting become a crime? Posting a director to a strategic institute where public servants are trained and moulded into professional bureaucrats should not be misconstrued as a witch-hunt. 

    “Ogunjimi was given an assigned responsibility to contribute to the system and groom civil servants for effective service delivery,” she noted. 

    The group urged those aspiring to occupy the AGF position to exercise patience until Madein’s tenure ends in three months. 

    “Those longing to occupy her position as their lifetime dream should show a strong sense of maturity by waiting patiently for her to exit before they take over if appointed,” Ezekwe stated. 

    NWPA emphasised the importance of Madein’s role as an ambassador of Nigerian women in leadership and urged her to continue executing her duties passionately, aligning with President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda for Nigerians. 

    Similarly, defending the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, against what they described as unjustified criticism, the group noted, “She acted in bold faith to protect the service and the rules governing it by providing professional advice on the appointment of an acting Accountant General.” 

    NWPA insisted that Madein should be allowed to concentrate on her job, especially as she prepares the office for a smooth transition. 

    The group stated that as March 2025 approaches, the focus should remain on service delivery and adherence to due process, ensuring stability and professionalism in the nation’s public service.

  • Reps member Abejide aligns development efforts with Tinubu’s Vision

    Reps member Abejide aligns development efforts with Tinubu’s Vision

    By Ralph Omololu Agbana 

    House of Representatives member for Yagba Federal Constituency, Hon. Leke Abejide, has urged his constituents to view his developmental efforts as aligned with their expectations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Abejide made this known during the flag-off of the N100m Leke Abejide Foundation (LAF) Cooperative, Thrift Credit Union loan disbursement, and distribution of food items in his hometown of Alu, Yagba East Local Council, Kogi State.

    During the disbursement of the non-interest loan scheme for women, various women’s cooperative societies across the three councils in Yagba Federal Constituency, namely Mopamuro, Yagba East, and Yagba West Local Councils, received N25m, N45m, and N30m respectively.

    Abejide stated that while his target is to ensure good governance and development for the benefit of the people he represents, specifically Yagba East, Yagba West, and Mopamuro Federal, he has also made it his duty to extend his gesture to the Kabba Bunu-Ijumu and Lokoja/Kotonkarfe Federal Constituencies.

    He asserted that his efforts committed to the two other constituencies outside his catchment are not for elections or running for the Senate, but to prioritise humanity.

    Abejide, now in his second term in the Green Chamber and elected on the platform of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), attributed his achievements to the enablement of President Tinubu.

    He corrected the impression that some people have not felt the economic impact of the President.

    According to him, since Tinubu is human and not omnipresent, he has done what is expected of him, which is to enable every part of the system to reach its potential, from federal to state and, recently, to local government levels; the onus is on all tiers of government to deliver good governance and development.

    “Some are saying they have not felt the impact of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. You have stated here loud and clear that you feel my impact; I now put it to you that once you see me and feel my impact, you have already felt the impact of the President,” he added.

    The 2024 edition of the yearly LAF empowerment programme, which included distributing food items for constituents and clothing for widows, coincided with the N100m interest-free loan scheme for women through selected cooperative societies.

    Beneficiaries included 14 Yagba East cooperatives, seven Yagba West, and nine Mopamuro.

    The project aims to promote nano and micro businesses across 34 electoral wards and 244 polling units in Yagba Federal Constituency.

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    This scheme seeks to foster economic growth by targeting women’s businesses through business expansion, creating jobs, and stimulating the local economy, according to Elder S.F. Ibiteye, chairman of the Board of Directors, LAF Cooperative Thrift and Credit Union, who also noted that the projected goal is not political but to invest in the people and their businesses.

    “This scheme is a concrete manifestation of Hon. Leke Abejide’s commitment to the people, as he understands the challenges faced by nano and micro businesses; the scheme is designed to ease and boost these businesses,” he said.

    Additionally, LAF distributed 30,000 pieces of six yards of Ankara to widows across the constituency. Other items distributed by the foundation included rice, salt, sugar, and garri.

    In his remarks, Abejide said, “Very soon, LAF Cooperative Thrift Credit Union will become the most preferred financial institution for loans, as it will be accessible to nano businesses. By empowering women entrepreneurs and nano and micro businesses, we support businesses, uplift families, and foster an inclusive and prosperous society. We are confident that this initiative will inspire a new wave of entrepreneurial spirit, drive economic growth, and create lasting wealth for the people of Yagba.”

    Speaking further on the empowerment of his constituents and the 2027 elections, Abejide said, “I have seen on social media different articles concerning the 2027 election when I have yet to complete one and a half years of my second term in office. I just want to start giving back to the people at the grassroots, and I know God will continue to help me.

    “Unfortunately, some people are talking about the 2027 House of Representatives election; my target is governance, and I want to focus on governance to make Yagba Federal Constituency the envy of all. I refuse to be distracted but remain focused on the development of Yagba. When it is time for politicking, it will be played.

    “Politics is not played on social media, but it is played at the grassroots. We are at the grassroots now to engage locally. The Senate seat is in Yagba West; therefore, we should be cautious about how we play politics. With the huge population of Yagba East Local Government, which is like two local governments lumped together, I think it is inappropriate to fight us.”

    “The annual WAEC fees that we pay and extend to Kabba Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency are not focused on contesting the Senate election. We have people-oriented schemes meant to benefit the populace for capacity and human development. The women’s cooperative society scheme aims to provide financial solutions and empowerment to women in small-scale businesses for expansion and growth.”

    Hon. Abejide noted that women play a critical role in the development of any society, adding that the non-interest N100m loan scheme was designed to empower women to drive economic growth.

    He also noted that this year’s edition of the empowerment for widows marks the tenth of the initiative, launched in 2014, targeting 250 women in Yagba.

    Participants praised Hon. Leke Abejide’s dedication to grassroots development and commitment to a good record of representation.

  • Abdulrazaq parades strides as IEDPU rallies support for urban renewal initiative

    Abdulrazaq parades strides as IEDPU rallies support for urban renewal initiative

    Kwara Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq showcased some major gains of his administration to the Ilorin community on Wednesday, commending the Emir of Ilorin Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari and all the stakeholders for their support and understanding. 

    Addressing the 59th national conference of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) at the forecourt of the Emir, the Governor congratulated the organisation for its successes over the years  and its roles in maintaining peace and harmony within and outside of the Emirate. 

    The Governor specifically showed off the gains of the urban renewal initiative under which several roads have been upgraded within and outside Ilorin metropolis — as well as other major economic projects that he said are meant to spread prosperity among the people. 

    He lauded the IEDPU and other stakeholders for their support for the initiative, pledging the support of the administration for the completion of the body’s innovation hub project to upskill young people and improve social mobility. 

    He said: “My team and I commend Mai Martaba the Emir of Ilorin, IEDPU leadership, and all of you for the support so far given to our administration and to the government of His Excellency President Bola Tinubu. We do not take this for granted,” he said. 

    “About three years ago, a guest lecturer at this august occasion mentioned how socioeconomic legacies of Ilorin people were going into extinction and how this should get the attention of all. 

    “Yes, we are proudly transforming the landscape of Ilorin. From Sulu-Gambari Road to Oja Oba, Balogun Fulani to Gambari, Ibrahim Taiwo Road to General Roundabout, Unity to A- Division, Omoda to Idi Ape, Challenge to Ahmadu Bello Way, Tanke Junction to Tipper Garage, and many others, Ilorin now stands shoulder to shoulder with leading capital cities in our country as we rapidly upgrade the infrastructure and restore law and order for the good of all. 

    “This urban renewal initiative is moving to other parts of the state, including Offa, with the massive reconstruction work on the Ibrahim Taiwo Road.

    “Beyond this, we are reviving the economic legacies of our community. Massive work has commenced on the dada pottery, just as we have mobilised contractors to the Patigi Motel to breathe life back to local economic activities in different parts of Kwara State.

    “The Ilorin Smart City project, which I announced here last year, has now commenced. We did not hijack land from anyone. All families and private individuals affected have been notified and compensated. For some, the compensation process is still ongoing. 

    “In 2025, we are constructing 250 units of mass housing in the first phase, while access and inner roads for the smart city will begin. We invite all of you to be part of this historic development. 

    “Furthermore, we have made provisions for the takeoff of the Kwara State University of Education, Ilorin, in 2025. Along with other projects of the administration, this opens a new frontier for socioeconomic growth and collective prosperity. 

    “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, we have long yearned for massive infrastructural turnarounds of our state and the capital city. This is happening already. Between 2023 and now, we have delivered 145 roads of different specifications across the state, while 50 are ongoing as I speak to you. 

    “Having said this, massive infrastructural development and reforms come with their own challenges and paradox. We urge you to bear with us. 

    “Again, I congratulate the IEDPU on this august occasion. I commend the leadership for your understanding and support for our programmes. I sincerely commend your focused advocacy for a greater, more prosperous, and peaceful Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State. I assure you of our support every step of the way.”

    The Balogun Gambari of Ilorin Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu Adebayo stood in for the Emir, while Amb. Yahya Seriki was the chief launcher who donated N100m for some ongoing projects of the body. 

    IEDPU President praised the urban renewal projects and other developmental programmes of the administration which he said are crucial for beautification and physical development of the capital city.

    He said Ilorin is increasingly expanding with many new communities, and called on the government to further expand the infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare centres. 

    “The Union is delighted with the rate of ongoing developments in the state. The completed and the numerous ongoing projects which the state government is executing are laudable. When completed, the projects will completely change the face of not only Ilorin, the state capital, but also the entirety of Kwara state,” he said.

    Abdulmalik highlighted some of the projects the union is currently executing including the Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari skills Acquisition Hub. 

    He requested the government to further assist the union by equipping the center with computers, and providing for the interior and exterior fittings to have a befitting look. 

    Prof Oba, who chaired the event, congratulated the people of the Emirate on the occasion which he noted reflects love, unity, and sense of patriotism.

    Prof. Oba praised Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to peace, social protection, and infrastructural development in the state, and urged him to do more on empowerment programmes for the downtrodden, particularly women.