By Ibrahim Ammani

Panelists are expected to lead discussions on Almajiri system, employment opportunities, health challenges, insecurity, agriculture, among other topics at the  the forthcoming Stakeholders

Roundtable on Northern Nigeria Youth Development, which is

scheduled to take place on November 19 and 20, 2024, at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja.

This was disclosed by the Director General of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF), Engr. Dr. Abubakar Gambo Umar, at a press conference in Kaduna on Friday.

“Over the two-day programme, expert panelists will lead discussions on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to employment opportunities, health challenges, the Almajiri system,

entrepreneurship, insecurity, agriculture, and education. 

“These discussions will provide a platform for critical engagement and exchange of ideas aimed at developing actionable solutions,” he said.

According to him, at the conclusion of the roundtable, all recommendations will be

compiled along with implementation strategies, and these will be forwarded to the relevant authorities for consideration and action.

“We believe that through collaboration and shared commitment, we can create a brighter future for our youth.

“I urge everyone to engage with us in this important dialogue and to

support our efforts in addressing the challenges faced by the youth

in Northern Nigeria. Together, we can pave the way for meaningful

change,” he said.

He explained that the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation  initiated this

roundtable in response to the pressing challenges faced by the youth in Northern Nigeria and indeed across our nation. 

“We recognize that our young people are the backbone of our society, and addressing their needs and concerns is crucial for sustainable development.

“In preparation for this event, we have made extensive efforts to invite key stakeholders from across the country. This includes government officials, representatives from civil society organizations, and leaders

from various sectors. 

“We believe it is essential to hear the voices of the youth themselves, and we have invited a diverse group of young individuals to share their perspectives on the issues that affect them,” he said.

By Gambo Yahaya

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) stands resolutely in support of our esteemed Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, in light of the recent protests and disturbances orchestrated against him.

We wish to categorically state that these actions are not mere expressions of dissent; rather, they form part of a broader scheme aimed at destabilizing the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement signed by the national president of AYCF Alhaji Yerima Shettima issued to journalists in Kaduna added that This orchestrated campaign is being driven by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which is operating in proxy for the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal.

The AYCF recognizes that Bello Matawalle has emerged as a formidable voice for the President in Northern Nigeria. His unwavering commitment to the security and well-being of our communities has made him a target for those who perceive his influence as a threat.

The recent protests are a desperate attempt by these perpetrators to undermine his credibility and, by extension, the integrity of President Tinubu’s administration. It is evident that they see Matawalle’s steadfastness and dedication as significant obstacles to their political ambitions, which is why they are hell-bent on orchestrating his downfall.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain Matawalle in his cabinet is a powerful endorsement of the Minister’s performance and contributions to national security. In an era where political machinations often overshadow genuine governance, President Tinubu has demonstrated remarkable foresight and courage by standing firm with Matawalle despite the relentless challenges posed by the PDP faction, which has been masquerading as the APC Akida.

This group, under the influence of Governor Dauda Lawal, has sought to exploit the political landscape for their gain, leveraging misinformation and incitement to create discord.We urge the Minister of State to remain undistracted by these provocations.

His track record in combating banditry and ensuring the safety of our people speaks volumes about his capabilities and dedication. The recent threats posed by the Lakurawa and other criminal elements should be met with the same tenacity and resolve that he has exhibited in the past.

Matawalle’s leadership has been pivotal in the fight against insecurity, and we have every confidence that he will continue to rise to the occasion.

The AYCF calls upon all stakeholders, particularly the youth of Northern Nigeria, to recognize the larger implications of these protests and disturbances. It is imperative that we remain vigilant against divisive tactics that seek to undermine our collective progress. The unity of our region and the stability of our nation depend on our ability to discern between genuine grievances and politically motivated attacks.

We reaffirm our unwavering support for Bello Mohammed Matawalle and urge him to persist in his vital work for the security of our communities.

The AYCF stands ready to mobilize our members and allies in defense of our leaders who are committed to the welfare of our people. Together, we will confront the challenges ahead and ensure that the forces of destabilization do not prevail.

By Ibrahim Ammani

Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation has called for a thorough investigation into the tragic petrol tanker explosion that rocked Majiya in Jigawa State on Wednesday, saying that such explosions have become too frequent across Nigeria.

The Foundation in a condolence message to the people and government of Jigawa State over the incident that claimed scores of lives and left several others injured, called for enhanced safety measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of such disasters.

The statement signed by the Foundation’s Director General, Engr (Dr) Abubakar Gambo Umar also called for government’s investment in emergency response, infrastructure, and capacity building.

It read: “The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation is deeply saddened by the tragic petrol tanker explosion that occurred on Wednesday 16th October 2024 in Majiya, Jigawa State, resulting in the loss of many precious lives and leaving several others injured.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Majiya, and the government and people of Jigawa State. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this devastating incident.

“Regrettably, such accidents have become all too frequent across our country, claiming countless lives and causing untold suffering. This trend underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of such disasters.

“We call on the relevant authorities to: Conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion; Provide immediate assistance and support to the affected families; Strengthen safety regulations and enforcement across the petroleum industry; and Invest in emergency response infrastructure and capacity building.

“We also appeal to corporate organizations, individuals, and philanthropic institutions to provide humanitarian aid to the victims and their families.

“In this moment of grief, we stand in solidarity with the people of Jigawa State and Nigeria as a whole,” it said.

By Hussaina Mohammed

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) is deeply concerned about the state of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria, particularly in light of recent developments within the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The AYCF believes that the current federal anti-graft agencies have failed to effectively combat corruption and calls for the establishment of state-owned anti-corruption bodies to address this critical issue.

AYCF in a statement issued by its President General Alhaji Yerima Shettima said that the recent challenges faced by the EFCC, as highlighted by Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede, underscore the need for a new approach to fighting corruption in Nigeria.

The AYCF recognizes that the EFCC’s reliance on procedural technicalities and its inability to operate in certain states due to court orders have hampered its effectiveness. This has led to a growing disillusionment with the agency’s ability to deliver on its mandate.

In light of these shortcomings, the AYCF supports the recent move by Lagos State to establish its own anti-corruption commission, separate from federal agencies like the EFCC and ICPC. This decision represents a necessary step towards decentralizing anti-corruption efforts and empowering states to take control of investigations within their own borders.

The AYCF believes that state-led anti-graft agencies are better equipped to address corruption at the local level and act swiftly to hold perpetrators accountable.The AYCF also acknowledges the concerns raised by other states, such as Kogi, where allegations of financial misconduct have raised questions about the EFCC’s impartiality and effectiveness.

The AYCF believes that the establishment of state-owned anti-corruption bodies will help address these concerns and ensure that corruption is tackled in a transparent and accountable manner.We believe that this shift will lead to more effective and localized anti-corruption efforts, ultimately strengthening Nigeria’s fight against graft.

The AYCF urges other states to follow Lagos’ lead and take control of their anti-corruption initiatives to ensure a more transparent and accountable governance system.

By Ibrahim Ammani

The registered political parties in Kaduna State address a serious issue affecting the upcoming local government elections.

The issue directly concerns the fair distribution of financial support, which the Executive Governor of Kaduna State graciously approved to ensure a smooth and democratic election process.

According to a statement issued to journalists in Kaduna by the registered Political Parties, said the Governor, in his dedication to promoting democracy, approved funds to be distributed among all political parties, in line with his commitment to fairness and inclusivity.

“This gesture is a testament to his desire for an election process that allows all parties to compete on a level playing field”.

“However, it has come to our attention that this well-intentioned directive has been hijacked by Abdul Ahmed Ishak, special Adviser to the governor on stakeholder relation, Unfortunately, Abdul Ahmed Ishak interference has led to selective disbursement, with some political parties being unfairly excluded from receiving their rightful share and impersonation for some political parties”.

“This act not only disregards the Governor’s clear instructions but also undermines the principles of transparency and fairness, which are essential in any democratic election”.

“The exclusion of some parties from the disbursement/impersonation creates an uneven playing field and poses a threat to the credibility of the entire election process”.

OUR CALL TO ACTION

1- Engagement with the Leadership of All Political Parties:     We also urge the Governor to meet with the leadership of all political parties in Kaduna State to address this situation directly.

“Such engagement will foster trust, resolve any lingering issues, and ensure that all parties are on the same page moving forward”.

2. Immediate Investigation and Correction: 

We respectfully call on His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State Dr Uba Sani, to urgently investigate the actions of Abdul Ahmed Ishak, who has unilaterally taken over a process that is not within his jurisdiction.

“We request that the Senior Special Assistant on Inter-Party Relations be restored to their rightful role in overseeing this process, ensuring that the funds are distributed as intended.

3.Preventing Future Misconduct: 

To prevent this kind of issue from recurring in the future, we recommend that clear boundaries and roles be established and communicated.

“Oversight mechanisms should be put in place to ensure that directives from the Governor are followed to the letter, without interference or hijacking by any individual or group.

4.Applied to KAD-SIECOM

We called on His excellency to applied for an extension for the substitution of candidate and payment KAD-SIECOM fees.

“We believe in the leadership and vision of His Excellency, the Executive Governor Dr. Uba Sani, and remain confident that he will take immediate action to rectify this issue.

“All political parties, regardless of their size or influence, deserve to be treated fairly, and this fairness must be reflected in the disbursement of funds for the upcoming local government elections.

“Any other support for political parties, the only reorganized body of political parties in Nigeria and worldwide is IPAC, It is only through such fairness and transparency that we can build a stronger and more inclusive democracy in Kaduna State”.

We trust that this matter will be resolved in the spirit of justice and democratic integrity.

Signed: 

YPP
PRP
AA
PDP
ZLP
BP
AAC
LP
NNPP

By Ibrahim Ammani

The registered political parties in Kaduna State address a serious issue affecting the upcoming local government elections.

The issue directly concerns the fair distribution of financial support, which the Executive Governor of Kaduna State graciously approved to ensure a smooth and democratic election process.

According to a statement issued to journalists in Kaduna by the registered Political Parties, said the Governor, in his dedication to promoting democracy, approved funds to be distributed among all political parties, in line with his commitment to fairness and inclusivity.

“This gesture is a testament to his desire for an election process that allows all parties to compete on a level playing field”.

“However, it has come to our attention that this well-intentioned directive has been hijacked by Abdul Ahmed Ishak, special Adviser to the governor on stakeholder relation, Unfortunately, Abdul Ahmed Ishak interference has led to selective disbursement, with some political parties being unfairly excluded from receiving their rightful share and impersonation for some political parties”.

“This act not only disregards the Governor’s clear instructions but also undermines the principles of transparency and fairness, which are essential in any democratic election”.

“The exclusion of some parties from the disbursement/impersonation creates an uneven playing field and poses a threat to the credibility of the entire election process”.

OUR CALL TO ACTION

1- Engagement with the Leadership of All Political Parties:     We also urge the Governor to meet with the leadership of all political parties in Kaduna State to address this situation directly.

“Such engagement will foster trust, resolve any lingering issues, and ensure that all parties are on the same page moving forward”.

2. Immediate Investigation and Correction: 

We respectfully call on His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State Dr Uba Sani, to urgently investigate the actions of Abdul Ahmed Ishak, who has unilaterally taken over a process that is not within his jurisdiction.

“We request that the Senior Special Assistant on Inter-Party Relations be restored to their rightful role in overseeing this process, ensuring that the funds are distributed as intended.

3.Preventing Future Misconduct: 

To prevent this kind of issue from recurring in the future, we recommend that clear boundaries and roles be established and communicated.

“Oversight mechanisms should be put in place to ensure that directives from the Governor are followed to the letter, without interference or hijacking by any individual or group.

4.Applied to KAD-SIECOM

We called on His excellency to applied for an extension for the substitution of candidate and payment KAD-SIECOM fees.

“We believe in the leadership and vision of His Excellency, the Executive Governor Dr. Uba Sani, and remain confident that he will take immediate action to rectify this issue.

“All political parties, regardless of their size or influence, deserve to be treated fairly, and this fairness must be reflected in the disbursement of funds for the upcoming local government elections.

“Any other support for political parties, the only reorganized body of political parties in Nigeria and worldwide is IPAC, It is only through such fairness and transparency that we can build a stronger and more inclusive democracy in Kaduna State”.

We trust that this matter will be resolved in the spirit of justice and democratic integrity.

Signed: 

YPP
PRP
AA
PDP
ZLP
BP
AAC
LP
NNPP

By Ibrahim Ammani

The Kaduna State APC Youth and Women Mobilization Group has alleged the Special adviser to Kaduna state governor on Stakeholder relation Abdul Ishaq, for cyphoned Fifty Million Naira ( #50m) meant for political parties ahead of Local government election in the state scheduled to hold on 19 October 2024.

According to a statement issued to journalists in Kaduna by Muhammad Auwal Nadada

Public Relations Officer Kaduna State APC Youth and Women Mobilization Group explained That Kaduna State Governor Sen. Uba Sani has directed that all Political Parties be given some certain amount of money to support their various candidates who are contesting for the seats of Local Government Chairmanship and Councillorships.

He’s said The money which amounts to over Fifty Million Naira #50,000,000 was given through his Special Advisers on Stakeholders Relations Abdul Ishaq, but unfortunately the purpose of the money was defeated in the sense that the Special Adviser selected some miscreants who are not even party members and shared some token to them to represent the Political Parties.

The statement read in part ; “For the first time after more than a decade we are witnessing a kind gesture from the Kaduna State Governor who choose to support Political Parties willing to participate in the fourth coming Local Government Elections.

“At the moment the leadership of various Political Parties of which the money is meant for are fuming and throwing words at each other for not knowing and understanding the exact people who collected the money”

“Issues of this nature are supposed to be treated at Party levels under the leadership of the Political Parties through the designated and assigned office meant to oversee their affairs. (Like Special Assistant on Inter-Party Relations and Special Adviser Political)”

“If the Governor will allow such incidence to continue to happen under his watch, then the same Political Parties will create a big gap for his administration”

“The Governor who is considered as a democrat should have called for the actual Party Chairmen by getting their list through the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and have a one-on-one meeting with them to appreciate their efforts for willing to participate in the elections”

“We are calling on the Governor to make findings and amendments on this, level up and equate all the Parties for the benefit of a peaceful political arena and Kaduna State at large.”

“We condemn the action of the Special Adviser Abdul Ishaq, who’s plan is to tarnish the image of the Governor and his administration. We also call on him to make a public apology to all the concerned stakeholders involved” statement concluded

Our sources gathered that the list of Parties to be given the money was submitted by the IPAC Chairman Hon. Tijani Ahmed who refuse to include some Parties but was latter highjacked by the Special Adviser who choose to be selective in his sharing formula.

Following the conclusion of the PDP state congress in Kaduna State, which produced Hon. Edward Percy Masha as the new chairman, I wish to express my profound gratitude to the thousands of youths, women, and elderly individuals, both far and near, who believed in and gave their unwavering support to my aspiration to lead the PDP and usher in a new dawn in the state.

I am particularly grateful to my family, especially my parents, whose encouragement, blessings, and guidance were instrumental in my decision to join and later withdraw from the race. I also want to thank the members of my team who stood firm by me from the onset and encouraged me to tow the path of obedience and sacrifice to parents, no matter the political cost. You are the true heroes of this contest, and I am very proud of you.

I am convinced that the new Nigeria, which we all hope for, should be built on the foundations of collaboration, loyalty, and respect to parents. It is now time to move on and turn my focus to my family and business, which have suffered greatly as a result of my contest.

I am confident that my participation in the chairmanship race, the gargantuan push from our youths and the elderly in the last couple of months, as well as their encouragement, even after my withdrawal from the race, is a testament to their undiluted belief in my capacity to be a catalyst for change in the PDP, Kaduna State, and Nigeria at large, and will, therefore, leave an indelible mark in the sands of history.

By the special grace of God, I will not disappoint. Rather, I will remain committed to collaborating with you to push any and all initiatives that will be geared towards improving the fortunes of women and youths in the PDP, Kaduna State, and Nigeria at large.

It is also instructive to note that my contest was never on a joint ticket with any of the aspirants in the chairmanship race, and none among them or their supporters, therefore, should feel disappointed or cast aspersions on my person for the decision by my family, team members, and I to withdraw from the race which might have gone contrary to their expectations.

I call on our youths to learn from our great example of commitment to the youths’ struggle without undermining the place and wise counsel of our parents. As a father myself, I look forward to my children working with me and tapping from, as well as obeying my counsels whenever such will be required from them.

Thank you, once again, to everyone who supported my aspiration. Thank you, my brothers Umar Rigasa and Gideon Dauda, for following me in all the places that I visited throughout the period of consultations. Thank you to all who contributed resources either in cash or in kind towards the success of my contest. I love you all, and God bless you abundantly.

Signed:
Edward John Auta
PDP Chairmanship Aspirant, Kaduna State

By Ibrahim Ammani

Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, frontline National Presidential Aspirant has promised to make accountability and transparency key, while promoting capacity building and Professionalism among members by ensuring that the International Institute of Journalism, IIJ, has a centre in all the Geo-Political Zones of the country.

He made the revelation at the formal presentation of the nomination/intention form to him by the NUJ Advocates for Credible Leadership at the NUJ Secretariat, Kaduna, Thursday.

He explained that since the inception of the Kaduna State Council, it was yet to produce the national president and it’s not fair being the hub of Journalism in the north, as such his drive for the position so that members can see the transformation and innovations the region can bring to the union.

In his remarks, former chairman of the Kaduna State Council of the NUJ and one time presidential aspirant, Yunusa Aliyu said though not a written document, the union has a gentleman arrangement of rotating the presidency and as such it is the turn of the north to produce a national president.

“The union has an unwritten understanding of rotating the presidency and as such it’s the turn of the north.

” Garba Muhammad is the best choice of the North, coming from Kaduna and being the center of Journalism.

“It’s our hope and wish that this symbolic presentation of the nomination form will ensure victory for Kaduna and the entire country”

During his courtesy call to the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Zonal Director of the organization, Buhari Auwalu assured Garba Muhammad of the corporation’s support in achieving victory at the upcoming delegate conference.

Said he; “You can be sure of the support of all our organization and I also want to pledge my full support to your ambition.”

Meanwhile, Managing Director, MD, of Kaduna State Media Corporation, KSMC, Ahmed Maiyaki after extolling the aspirant, promised to support the project both morally and financially and promised the unflinching support of members of his organization.

“I have known the aspirant for some time, in fact we’re good friends, I’m not supporting him because of ethnic, religious or regional affiliations, I’m supporting him because having worked with him in time past I know he’s a good leader and thus qualified for the position of national president of NUJ.”

Earlier, the Zonal Director, Zonal Network Centre of the Nigeria Television Authority , NTA, Hajiya Saudatu Suleiman assured of an unflinching support for Garba Muhammad Presidential aspiration.

” With the personality I am seeing in the campaign team, your past record achievements and the outstanding commitment to reinvigorate the NUJ, be rest assured of 100% support from across the NTA family”, she stated.

By Ahmed Ilallah

In observance of the Prophet Muhammad SAW’s Moulud for the year 1446 AH, the people of Hadejia celebrate the Ghani Festival today, led by the Emir.

The Ghani Festival this year is unique and historic; it was held in the presence of His Excellency Malam Umar Namadi, the governor of Jigawa State.

Numerous traditional rulers from northern Nigerian states attended the Festival, including the Emirs of Zazzau (HRH Alhaji Nuhu Bamalli), Lafiya, and Awe (all from Nasarawa state).

At the Ghani Festival, the Honorable Commissioner for Local Government and Community Services, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Garba MK, rejoices with the Hadejian people.

He extends his gratitude to the attendees for their warm welcome and to Governor His Excellency Malam Umar Namadi for his presence at the festival.

The love and support shown by the wonderful people of Hadejia is incredible.

This shows that Malam Umar Namadi’s administration’s policies are in line with what our people need.

He gave the populace assurances that this administration is dedicated to serving the interests of the people and the state.