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  Governor Bago Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has declared a State of Emergency on Education in the Niger North Senatorial District. This announcement was made during his project tour of the region. The governor expressed deep concern about the inadequate number of schools in many communities, particularly in areas such as Bangi in Mariga Local Government Area. He emphasized that the emergency declaration is aimed at addressing these challenges comprehensively. Key measures announced include : Establishing new schools in the zone. Renovating and equipping all existing day schools with modern facilities. In addition to addressing educational challenges, Governor Bago also committed to solving the water scarcity problem in the district. Furthermore, he assured residents that his administration is actively working to eliminate all forms of criminal activity in the area. The declaration underscores the administration's focus on improving infrastructure and tackling...

  ASUU President The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed concern about the rising number of first-class graduates being produced by private universities in Nigeria.  Speaking at an event held in honor of Prof. Andy Egwunyenga’s successful tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Delta State University (DELSU), the ASUU National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, warned that unregulated adoption of such practices in public universities could undermine academic standards. Osodeke also criticized the trend of excellent grades in primary and secondary schools that do not align with sufficient knowledge acquisition.  He decried the “brain drain” in Nigeria, where skilled professionals leave for better opportunities abroad, and linked this trend to systemic issues in the nation's institutions, such as frequent building collapses. He further emphasized the need for ASUU to remain vocal about injustices and push for better conditions for academics, as the current stat...

 Governor Umar Muhammad Bago of Niger State was warmly received amidst cheers from his supporters upon his arrival in Bangi, the headquarters of Mariga Local Government Area (LGA).  The visit is part of the governor’s state-wide project evaluation tour to assess the progress of ongoing projects in the area. The governor was welcomed by top government officials from the LGA, underscoring the significance of the visit in fostering development and ensuring accountability in governance.  

The Niger North Senatorial Zone of Niger State faces a trio of challenges—deplorable infrastructure, crumbling educational facilities, and persistent security threats. These issues, long neglected, continue to undermine the quality of life and economic potential of the region. Governor Umar Bago’s ongoing tour of the zone is a welcome initiative, providing him with firsthand insight into the realities on the ground. However, this visit must translate into immediate and decisive action. The State of Infrastructure Federal roads in the senatorial zone have become a symbol of neglect. Spanning over 50% of the state’s federal road network, many of these routes are nearly impassable, choking the movement of goods and people. Some glaring examples include: Makera to Kontagora Bangi to Kontagora Rijau to Kontagora Makera to Tegina to Birnin Gwari Mokwa to New Bussa to Agwara Bida to Wushishi to Zungeru to Tegina These roads are lifelines for thousands, yet years of abandonment have left...

  Governor Muhammad Bag The Niger State government, under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, has announced plans to remodel the Kagara General Hospital in Rafi Local Government Area to enhance healthcare services in the region. This development was disclosed during the Governor's project monitoring tour across Niger North Senatorial District. Hospital Remodeling and Healthcare Improvements : The contract for remodeling the Kagara General Hospital will soon be awarded. Medical graduates from Rafi local government will be deployed to the hospital to improve service delivery. Education Initiatives : Day schools in the area will undergo renovation. Boarding school students will be relocated to safer locations due to ongoing security concerns. Road Projects : The 10 km road project from the previous administration will be reassigned for expedited completion. The ongoing 5 km road project in Rafi Local Government is progressing, with commendation for its quality. The 90 km B...

Senator Ali Ndume The Nigerian Senate has been abuzz with debates surrounding the swift progression of the Tax Reform Bill. At the forefront of the critique is Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, who has voiced strong reservations about the pace and content of the bill.   In a session reported by "Daily Trust"on Wednesday, Ndume openly objected to the reading of the bill on the Senate floor. His concerns centered on derivation and Value Added Tax (VAT)—key elements he believes warrant deeper consideration. “These are not matters that many of us can easily agree upon,” he stated, emphasizing the need for caution.   The senator elaborated on his stance during an appearance on Channels Television’s 'Politics Today', where he questioned the urgency of the bill's passage. Drawing a stark comparison, Ndume highlighted how the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), a landmark piece of legislation, took over a decade to pass through the National Assem...

NNPCL GMD The Port Harcourt Refinery Company Limited (PHRCL) in Eleme, River State, has commenced processing of crude oil today.  This was disclosed by Nigeria National Petroleum  Company Limited (NNPCL), Chief Corporate Company Communication officer Femi Soneye.  Portharcourt Refinery at Eleme This bring the end of series of failed deadline since the refinery was shut down about 5 years ago.  The removal of the fuel subsidy, a policy implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, was aimed at addressing the unsustainable financial burden on government resources.  However, it led to widespread inflation and economic challenges for Nigerians, making the functional operation of local refineries critical for stabilizing the market. The Port Harcourt Refinery's commencement of crude oil processing is a significant development that is expected to boost Nigeria's refining capacity and reduce its reliance on imported petroleum products. The refinery, wit...

  Col. Dangiwa Umar Former Military Governor of Kaduna State, Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd), has threatened to take legal action against the Governor of Sokoto State if harm comes to a female activist allegedly arrested for speaking out about the dire security and economic conditions in the state. In a recent interview with BBC Hausa , Umar condemned the governor's decision to arrest the activist, stating that instead of being commended for her bravery in exposing the atrocities committed by bandits in the region, she has been subjected to harassment.  He warned that if the activist suffers any harm, he would escalate the matter to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to ensure justice. Umar accused the state government of using internally displaced persons (IDPs) to spread false allegations against the activist in an attempt to tarnish her image and justify punitive actions against her.  He described the situation as deeply troubling and reflective of a broader fa...

  Minister of Works C ontract for the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road project handle by Julius Berger Plc has finally been terminated due to a series of disputes over project costs, scope changes, and implementation delays.   The contract was initially set at N710.8 billions by independent consultant who reviewed the work, but the Federal Government approved a revision to N740.8 billion. Julius Berger, however, rejected the revised cost, citing rising material costs and proposing further price hikes, which the government deemed unacceptable. Julius Berger allegedly caused delays, including halting work and not remobilizing the workforce to the site.  The company also reportedly attempted to modify the scope of work unilaterally, which was not approved by the government. Citing non-performance and breach of contract, the Federal Ministry of Works invoked Clause 63 of the Standard Conditions of Contract (Road Works), 1999 edition, to terminate the agreement.  The gov...

  Dangote Petroleum Refinery  The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from ₦990 to ₦970 per litre.  In a statement issued on Sunday, Anthony Chiejina, the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer of Dangote Group, highlighted the reduction as a gesture of appreciation to Nigerians and recognition of government support. Chiejina emphasized that the price adjustment reflects the company's commitment to fostering domestic enterprise and supporting Nigeria's collective well-being.  He also assured Nigerians of the refinery's dedication to maintaining high-quality, environmentally friendly, and sustainable petroleum products. The statement further underscored the refinery's ongoing efforts to increase production capacity to meet and exceed the country's fuel consumption demands, addressing any concerns about potential supply shortages.

  The Northern Elders' Forum (NEF) has strongly opposed the proposed Tax Reform Bill, labeling it a policy "conceived in bad faith" and cautioning that it endangers Nigeria's unity and national cohesion.  In a communique issued after their Board of Trustees' second bi-annual meeting in Abuja, the forum criticized the process of the bill's formulation and implementation, alleging that critical stakeholders, such as the National Economic Council, were deliberately excluded. Professor Ango Abdullahi, the forum's convener, voiced concerns over the potential marginalization of the North's resource potential, calling the bill’s approach “dubious.”  The NEF commended the Northern States Governors' Forum and the Northern Nigeria Council of Traditional Rulers for opposing the bill, deeming their stance “patriotic,” and called on Northern politicians in the National Assembly to actively reject it. The NEF accused the promoters of the bill of having "s...

  This report highlights the ongoing insecurity and violence affecting communities in Niger State, Nigeria, particularly in rural areas like  Bangi, Mariga Local Government Area (LGA). The killing of seven farmers and the destruction of their truck and harvested maize underscores the challenges farmers face in maintaining their livelihoods amidst banditry and violence. According to an eye witnessed, the victims went to their farm to harvest their maize crops but ended up losing their lives as the bandits ambushed them, opened fire for all of them and later set bags of maize crops and the truck that supposed to carried this crops from the farm ablaze.  In addition to the tragic loss of lives, the economic impact on these communities is severe, as such incidents discourage farming and disrupt food supply chains.  The killing of Mallam Danjuma, a residence of Kontagora, even after a ransom payment of 20 millions Naira, further illustrates the lawlessness in some region...

Simon Ekpa  The arrest of Simon Ekpa by Finnish authorities marks a significant development in the ongoing tension surrounding pro-Biafra agitation in Nigeria's southeast region.  Mr. Ekpa, a dual Nigerian-Finnish citizen, has been a polarizing figure due to his leadership of a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) known as Autopilot.  His activities, especially the enforcement of sit-at-home orders and solicitation of funds for the Biafran cause, have been linked to violence and instability in Nigeria. Key Points: Charges and Arrest : Ekpa was arrested alongside four others on suspicion of terrorism-related activities. Finnish authorities allege he financed terrorism and violated Finland’s Money Collection Act. He is accused of using social media to incite violence and promote secessionist agendas. Criminal Allegations : The crimes allegedly occurred between August 2021 and November 2024 in Lahti, Finland. Finnish police claim his activities directly contrib...

President Ahmed Tinubu  The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to establish two critical institutions aimed at youth development: the National Youth Development Bank and a Youth Data Bank . These initiatives were revealed by President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, during a Stakeholders Roundtable on Northern Youth Development in Abuja. Key Highlights: Purpose of the Banks : The National Youth Development Bank is intended to provide financial support to young Nigerians. The Youth Data Bank will focus on gathering and managing information about youth demographics, aiding in targeted developmental initiatives. Youth Development Strategy : The administration has rolled out a comprehensive youth development strategy spanning multiple sectors, including education, agriculture, technology, and housing. Notable programs include: Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme for technical skill development. Skill-Up Artisans...

 President Bola Tinubu has called for unity among African militaries to address the continent’s pressing security and stability challenges. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, he delivered this message during the opening of the second Africa Military Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. The event, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” aims to foster camaraderie, collaboration, and resilience among armed forces across the continent. The Games, first initiated over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya, have been revived under the leadership of Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Major General Maikano Abdullahi. This year, 1,625 athletes and officials from across Africa are participating. Key Highlights: Unity in Security: Tinubu emphasized that Africa's security challenges require collective efforts, stating that "no sing...

On Monday, November 18, 2024, a violent clash erupted between students of Government High School and Government Day Secondary School in the Adeta area of Ilorin, Kwara State. The altercation, which began around 11 a.m., resulted in injuries to more than ten students. Witnesses reported that the conflict stemmed from a prior disagreement between the two schools, escalating into what appeared to be a reprisal attack. Some observers have linked the incident to issues of cultism and a struggle for supremacy among the students. The Kwara State Ministry of Education is expected to release an official statement regarding the incident. Meanwhile, the police have confirmed the arrest of several suspects during their intervention and are conducting an ongoing investigation to ascertain the root causes of the conflict. citeturn0search0 This incident highlights ongoing concerns about student violence in Ilorin. In March 2023, a similar clash occurred between students of Governm...

  The EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, revealed during the 6th Annual Criminal Law Review Conference in Abuja that two staff members of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission were recently dismissed for corruption. The EFCC chairman emphasized that beyond dismissal, erring staff will face prosecution as part of ongoing reforms to ensure integrity within the agency. Key points from his address include:   - Staff Integrity: Dismissal and prosecution of corrupt staff members to align the agency's actions with its anti-corruption mandate.   - Reforms: Changes include revising arrest and detention policies and eliminating excessively lengthy charge sheets in prosecutions.   - Accountability: The chairman shared his experience of being under investigation as a former EFCC secretary, highlighting the need for fairness and accountability.   - Constructive Criticism: He encouraged Nigerians to report EFCC's shortcomings responsibly and pledged ...

  The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reported a successful operation under **Operation Fansan Yamma, targeting terrorists in Niger State. In a statement released by the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Olusola Akinboyewa the operation on November 16, 2024, led to the elimination of numerous terrorists, destruction of a significant arms depot, and the residence of a key terrorist kingpin, Mallam Saleh**, a known associate of Dogo Gide. Mallam Saleh, notorious for his reign of terror in Shiroro Local Government Area, was responsible for orchestrating attacks, abductions, and extortion that terrorized local communities. According to the statement, NAF assets, armed with precise intelligence, launched airstrikes in Palele, Shiroro, targeting Saleh’s base and other terrorist elements. During the operation, NAF spotted terrorists on motorcycles around the target area and swiftly executed airstrikes. The destruction of the weapons depot was confirmed by secondary explosio...

  FIRS HQ Abuja Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to reform its revenue collection framework and address inequities in the distribution of value-added tax (VAT) proceeds. Speaking during an interactive session with lawmakers on proposed tax reform bills, he criticized the current VAT allocation system, which disproportionately favors Lagos, Rivers, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) due to the location of corporate head offices. Adedeji revealed that Lagos alone receives 42% of VAT proceeds, with Rivers and the FCT taking 16% and 10%, respectively. This distribution leaves other states, including many in the North, with minimal allocations—Borno and Bauchi, for instance, collect less than 0.5% each. He argued that this system neglects the fact that 70% of VAT revenue is generated from nationwide consumption, not just activities in the headquarter states. The FIRS chairman illustrated the dispari...

  Chief of air staff  The Nigerian Air Force has successfully carried out airstrikes that resulted in the death of scores of terrorists in Babban Kauye village, Tsafe Local Government Area, Zamfara State. The terrorists, who were planning to launch attacks on military personnel and civilians in the area, were targeted after intelligence gathered their intentions. The airstrikes, part of *Operation Farautar Mujiya*, were executed following information about a gathering of the bandits' forces, some of whom were high-ranking members of notorious criminal groups loyal to the bandit kingpins Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule. The air strikes were conducted on Friday, and subsequent reports from ground troops confirmed that several key leaders of the bandit factions were killed, disrupting their ability to coordinate future attacks. The Tsafe region has long been a hotspot for banditry, with these groups using remote villages like Babban Kauye as safe havens. The operation is part of broader ...

 It was an action-packed weekend in the Nigerian Premier League with several thrilling encounters. Ahmed Musa's late equalizer helped Kano Pillars earn a 2-2 draw against Heartland at the Sani Abacha Stadium. Despite Suraj Lawal's brace for Heartland, Rabiu Ali's equalizer and Musa's second-half goal ensured the hosts secured a point. In kenne, Remo Stars and Rivers United played out a goalless draw, with neither side able to break the deadlock in a tight contest. Meanwhile, in the South West derby Ikorodu City came from behind to defeat Shooting Stars 2-1, extending their unbeaten streak to three games, with goals from Shola Adelani and Rivio Ayemnwere after Anthony Okachi  had given Shooting Stars the lead. Elsewhere, Kwara United secured a solid 2-0 win over Plateau United, and Rangers edged out Bendel Insurance 3-2 in an exciting clash. Sunshine Stars defeated Lobi1-0, while Abia Warriors and Enyimba drew 1-1. The results round up: - Kwara Utd 2-0 Plateau Utd - Rang...

 In his keynote address at the Kunle Olubode Lecture Series in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dr. Niran Malaolu, a former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Ogun State, lamented that 25 years of democratic rule in Nigeria have done little to address the deep-seated issues facing the country. Malaolu criticized the hijacking of democracy by thugs, drug barons, and corrupt politicians, arguing that the political system is still plagued by the same misgovernance and corruption that characterized military rule. He reflected on the negative legacy of Nigeria's past military regimes, which, according to him, democratized corruption, neglected agriculture in favor of oil exports, and created an unstable economy. He stressed that the foundation of Nigeria's widespread poverty and dysfunction was laid during the military regimes of the 1980s, whose economic policies led to mass suffering and instability. Malaolu noted that even after the return to democratic governance, the country’s p...

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has officially presented a N100 million cheque to the Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, as part of the state government's contribution to the construction of student hostel accommodations. The cheque was received by the Governing Council members, led by the Chairman and Pro-Chancellor of the university, Dr. Muhammad Kudu Santuraki, during a brief ceremony held at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Minna. Governor Bago, known for his strong agricultural background, reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the university to support the development of education and improve the welfare of the state's citizens. Dr. Santuraki, in his response, expressed gratitude for the Governor's generous contribution, assuring that the funds would be used effectively and transparently for the intended purpose. This donation, initially announced by the Governor on November 5th, aims to ease the...

  The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has threatened to terminate contracts for 10 federal road projects in Niger State due to delays and substandard work by the contractors.  This announcement followed a meeting in Abuja with key stakeholders, including the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago. Umahi expressed frustration with contractors who had received advance payments but failed to deliver quality work on time, causing hardship for road users.  Umahi emphasized that contractors must either resume work promptly or face termination.  The projects affected include major roads like the Agaje-Katcha-Baro and Suleja-Minah roads.  Specific actions were agreed upon for each contractor, including potential termination of contracts for some and additional funding or support for others. Governor Bago highlighted the negative socio-economic and security impact of the delayed projects, particularly on the state’s security challenges.  Stakeholders also discussed ...

  The Gold Reform Bill, introduced by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, seeks to consolidate control over Nigeria's gold resources under the Federal Government, emphasizing greater regulation and oversight of mining activities.  The bill has already passed its Second Reading, although the public hearing has been suspended indefinitely. Key provisions of the bill include: 1. Government Control Over Gold Resources:  All gold deposits, whether under or upon any land in Nigeria, are to be vested in the Federal Government on behalf of the Nigerian people.  Lands with commercial quantities of gold will be acquired by the government in accordance with the Land Use Act. 2. Exclusivity of Mining Rights: The bill restricts exploration and exploitation of gold to those with proper authorization under the Mining Act, prohibiting unauthorized mining activities. 3. Protected Areas: The bill bans gold mining in certain areas, including military zones, towns, villages, cemeteries, sa...

 A truck loaded with gas cylinders exploded at a filling station in Magama, Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State on Friday, November 15, 2024.  The explosion caused widespread damage, including the burning of six vehicles and the destruction of two houses.  Many people sustained injuries, though no fatalities were reported.  The explosion occurred at the 'Walidan' filling station, where it was reported that gas products, possibly smuggled from Niger Republic, were stored.  The truck had been parked there for several days before the blast.  Local police, in collaboration with the military, quickly responded to the scene, containing the fire and implementing safety measures to prevent further damage. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the explosion, with further updates expected as the inquiry progresses.

  Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has offered direct employment to Sham’unu Ishaq, a first-class graduate of Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, who was recently seen in a viral video selling sachet water to support his family.  Governor Radda took swift action after learning about Ishaq's situation, directing his Special Assistant on Students Matters to verify the claim.  The investigation confirmed that Ishaq, who graduated with First-Class honors in Education/Biology in 2021/2022, had resorted to selling pure water after completing his National Youth Service Corps programme. Governor Radda emphasized the importance of rewarding academic excellence and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting exceptional talent.  His initiative aligns with broader efforts to create opportunities for youth and harness the potential of the brightest minds in the state.  This is part of the governor's ongoing policy to provide employment to top graduates, with 18...

Kontagora emirate raise a pressing concern regarding the use of land by the Nigerian military in Kontagora, Niger State, which has inadvertently become a haven for bandits. Engr. Mustafa Bello, the former Minister of Commerce, is requesting the President to revoke or terminate the military's leasehold on this land to allow the local population to reclaim it and eliminate the criminal presence. " KONTAGORA PEOPLE NEED THEIR LAND BACK FROM THE MILITARY WHO FAILED TO SECURE IT... By Engr Mustafa Bello Former Minister of commerce..  The President and C-in-C of; The Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,  Aso Villa, Abuja. REQUEST TO TERMINATE OR REVOKE THE LEASEHOLD ON THE LARGE HECTARES OF LAND HELD BY MILITARY IN *KONTAGORA*, NIGER STATE, AS TRAINING/ MILITARY EXERCISE RANGE, THAT HAS NOW PROVIDED SANCTUARY FOR BANDITS OPERATING FREELY IN THE SENATORIAL DISTRICT. I humbly write to invite Your Excellency's attention to the challenges and difficulties now faced by ci...