By Ibrahim Ammani Kaduna

Comrade Garba Muhammad, a leading aspirant for the post of National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has appealed to other aspirants and members of the union to eschew rancour and work together for the progress and unity of the Union, especially the forth- coming Delegate Congress.

In his Eid Maulud message,he charged all to, in the spirit of the celebration, ensured that they work together as one and continue to uphold the tenet of the profession as the watchdog of the society.

Muhammadu, a champion of integrity in the profession, enjoined all members to work toward free and fair elections during the conference and commit towards rallying round whoever emerges as the new NUJ President for the progress of the profession in the country.

“All we are asking for is a level-playing ground for all candidates vying for the various executive offices of the union.

“For me, the union should be stronger in unity and progress, irrespective of who becomes the new President through a free, fair and credible election. Let the best candidate win, but of course, we should not jettison the fair gentleman zoning agreement in existence,” he said.

Dwelling on the Eid Maulud celebration, he appealed to religious leaders in the country to prioritize their preachings and teachings on peace, unity and progress of Nigeria.

“Religious leaders, clerics and others alike, should lay much emphasis on peace and unity among the people, devoid of any political or ethnic bias, for prosperity and nation building.
While congratulating members of the Muslim Ummah for their roles in bringing peace and harmony to the country, especially the Northern region, which has been ravaged with banditry and insecurity in recent times, Muhammad urged religious leaders to work with government in finding a lasting solution to the insecurity scourge and economic retardation.

“It is my belief that if all of us ( including professional, traditional and religious leaders) work together, we can find a solution to the problems of insecurity currently ravaging our nation,” he said.

Muhammad also called on well meaning Nigerians, to as a matter of urgency, partner with government and security agencies in finding a lasting solution to the menace of banditry.

He appealed to government to put in place various policies and programmes that will ameliorate the current pains majority of the populace is passing through.

“Government and those in power should know that Nigerians are passing through hard times. The masses are not smiling, there is hunger and poverty in the land,” he said.

He reiterated the fact that he is in the NUJ Presidential race to contribute his quota towards improving the profession and is ready to work with other stakeholders in ensuring positive and impactful changes take place in the union.

“Like I said, part of the reason why I want to be the National President of the NUJ, is to work in collaboration with the government and relevant stakeholders in bringing positive changes to how the affairs of the union are handled, and also bring back the unity of members while ensuring that the practice of true professionalism is imbibed by all regardless of where we all come from,” he added.

By Abubakar Abba

Alhaji Aliyu Tanimu Zariya the chairman of Kaduna state National Union of Road Transport Workers NURTW and national vice chairman of the union appointed as National acting President of NURTW Abuja, which comprises of 36 State in Nigeria.

The newly appointed acting National Chairman assured the members of the union and general public that he will do all the necessary action to take the union to next level.

“To all of our followers, I urge you all to maintain peace and harmony that we currently enjoy in Kaduna. My esteem appreciation and gratitude goes to his HE Uba Sani Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Director of DSS, I appreciate your fatherly roles and intervention.”

‘I wish to sincerely thank each and every one of us for the role played, before, during and after the Conference. Indeed, words are not enough to express my deep feelings.

I hereby assure you that whatever be their grievance will be properly looked into and resolved amicably. The Union is not only one big family, but also large enough to accommodate every one of us.
Let us therefore join hands together and work as a formidable Team, with a view to building a strong and vibrant Union that will stand the taste of time.

While congratulating all those that emerged from their various Zones, I hereby declare that there is “No victor, No vanquished” as everyone will be carried along as always in the affairs of the Union.
Up National Progress, Progress, National

By Shehu Usman Yahaya

The Kaduna state government has officially declared nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) Open defecation free (ODF), marking a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to improve public health. 
This achievement was announced in partnership with UNICEF, highlighting the success of ongoing sanitation programs in the state.
At an event in Kaduna, government officials, community leaders, and representatives from international organizations gathered to celebrate the validation of the nine LGAs, which account for nearly 40% of the state’s population. The move is part of the state’s strategy to completely eradicate open defecation by 2025.
Kaduna’s deputy governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, expressed the state government’s commitment to achieving a statewide ODF status within the set timeline. 
“Open defecation leaves our communities exposed to preventable diseases, and this milestone shows that progress is being made. However, we must accelerate efforts to ensure that the remaining LGAs also reach ODF status,” she said.
UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, commended the state for its progress but emphasized the need for continued action. 
“With over 600,000 people still practicing open defecation in Kaduna State, there’s more work to be done. We are dedicated to supporting the state’s mission to achieve 0% open defecation,” he noted.
The declaration of these nine LGAs as ODF is seen as a critical step towards improving public health and reducing diseases linked to poor sanitation, such as diarrhea, which remains a leading cause of child mortality in Nigeria. 
In her remarks, the state WASH scribe, Madam Theresa Pamma said the objective of the ceremony was to ginger the local governments that are yet to achieve the ODF statue to gear effort towards achieving the statue as the state government through RUWASSA will continue to work towards ensuring that the whole state become an ODF state.

By Ahmed Aliyu

Honorable Aliyu Haruna Chakis is a young, vibrant, and energetic candidate contesting for Kaduna North local Governments chairman in the coming local government election.

He is passionate about the development of Kaduna North community and has a clear vision for bringing positive change to the area tag 5 KEY POINTs AGENDA.

A vote for Honorable Aliyu Haruna Chakis under the PDP is a progressive assurance vote for Security, Health and Environment, Economic Infrastructure, Education and Empowerment, Agricultural, Tourism and Sport, as he is dedicated to work hard and implementing policies that will benefit the people of Kaduna North.

With his perspectives and innovative agendas, he is the best choice for bringing about real change and growth in Kaduna North local government.

Honorable Aliyu Haruna Chakis who has proven himself to be a committed and hardworking individual, and with your support, he will be able to make a significant impact in the community.

Let’s come together and support this dynamic candidate for a brighter future for Kaduna North Local Government.

As part of his efforts to fulfill his campaign promises, Hon. Barr. Mahmud Lawal (Bola Ige) the member representing Zaria City Constituency and Chairman of the Kaduna State House of Assembly Committee on Education, has sponsored 130 students to pursue Diploma Programs at Elsa College of Advanced Studies (ECAS), an affiliate of Kaduna State University (KASU).

The beneficiaries were selected from the six wards of his constituency. He stated that the scholarship covers all registration and tuition fees.

He advised the students to be hard working, dedication, and abide by the rules of the institution.

If we can recall, the Hon. Member has given full scholarship to 100 students to study NCE and alhamdulillah the said students had completed their NCE 1 and are now in NCE 2.

Also, he paid for the registration and training of 230 students who had written JAMB.
Hon. Bola Ige has sponsored the training of 150 women on first aid and personal hygiene.
In his safe the children program, 50 out of school children were returned back to school, and 100 students were registered for last SSCE.

Hon. Bola Ige also purchased Law School forms to 15 students of faculty of Law, ABU Zaria.

The Hon. Member medical outreach program were 680 people benefitted from eye, lipoma, and hernia surgeries is another remarkable achievement.

And also 250 Women benefited from the monetory donation for small scale business

By Ibrahim Ammani

A group of youths from Kaduna Central has made a passionate appeal for the return of Senator Shehu Sani to the Senate in 2027.

The group, led by Amina Buba Ahmed, Lucky Ibrahim Kajuru, and Sylvester Bobai, in a press statement Signed and made available to newsmen in Kaduna, cited the need for a vocal and bold representative who can address the pressing issues of youth unemployment and provide a voice for the marginalized.

According to the group, Senator Shehu Sani’s previous tenure in the Senate was marked by his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people, particularly the youths. His bold stance against the oppressive regime of Governor Elrufai in Kaduna earned him recognition as a champion of the people.

The youths argued that Senator Shehu Sani’s return to the Senate would provide them with a strong advocate who can push for policies and programs that address their needs. “We lack a voice in Nigeria, and Senator Shehu Sani is one of the few leaders who has consistently spoken truth to power,” said Amina Buba Ahmed.

Lucky Ibrahim Kajuru added, “We need a senator who can stand up for us, who can fight for our rights, and who can provide us with opportunities. Senator Shehu Sani has a track record of doing just that.”

Sylvester Bobai emphasized the need for a vocal senator who can represent the interests of Kaduna Central. “We have been quiet for too long, and it’s time for us to demand more from our representatives. Senator Shehu Sani is the right person to do that.”

The group’s call for Senator Shehu Sani’s return to the Senate has resonated with many youths in Kaduna Central, who see him as a beacon of hope in a time of uncertainty. As the 2027 elections approach, it remains to be seen whether Senator Shehu Sani will heed the call and return to the Senate to continue his fight for the people.

By Ibrahim Ammani

Arewa Youth Assembly, has said members of the group will no longer participate in the planned August 1 nationwide protest, against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration

In a communique issued and read after the meeting by the Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu noted that the conference theme, “Fuel Your Creativity: Choosing Entrepreneurship for Progress”, resonated well with the Northern youths and held significant potential for the benefit of the entire country.

According to the communique “We strongly oppose protests in any form, as they often lead to violence, loss of lives, and property damage. Instead, we advocate for constructive engagement with authorities through dialogue and peaceful means.”

“We strongly denounce protests under any guise, as they are counterproductive and can lead to violence, loss of lives, and destruction of properties. Therefore we have resolved that we will not be part of any protests. We call on Nigerian Youth to engage authorities constructively through peaceful and legal means, such as dialogue and constructive engagement.We, the youth of the Arewa Youth Assembly, remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, advocating for youth development, and promoting peace and progress in our nation.

“We call on all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, to join hands with us in achieving these goalsWe, the youth, firmly resolve to embrace entrepreneurship as a powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and foster wealth creation in Nigeria. We recognize that by developing our entrepreneurial skills and knowledge, we can become self-sustainable and reduce dependence on the government for employment opportunities”

“We call upon the government to implement robust measures aimed at developing the knowledge and skills of the youth. It is essential for the government to prioritize youth development and empowerment as a matter of urgency, both at the national and sub-national levels”

“We urge the Federal Government to address the prevailing issues of banditry and insurgency effectively. By ensuring security and stability.

“The youth can actively engage in the agricultural sector, which has significant potential for business opportunities and economic growth. We call upon Governments at the sub-national level, specifically the states, to prioritize youth development and empowerment. It is crucial for State Governments to allocate resources and create programs that support the growth and advancement of young people in their respective states”

“We advise youth across the country to seek enhanced knowledge, skills, and competencies required for competitiveness in the 21st century. It is imperative for young people to equip themselves with the necessary tools and adapt to the rapidly evolving global landscape”. Concluded.

In his remarks the Managing Director of Sir Ahmadu Bello Sardauna Foundation, Engr. Abubakar Umar, asked the youths lay more emphasis on the importance of lawfulness and entrepreneurship rather than lawless protest.

He encouraged the youth to pursue self-reliance and reduce over-dependence on the government for employment.

Engr. Umar highlighted the destructive consequences of past protests, such as the End SARS protests, which resulted in significant property damage and loss of lives.

He urged the youth to channel their grievances through legal and constructive means, emphasizing dialogue with leaders as a more effective approach.

“We must come together and fashion a Marshall Plan for the development of the North West. Our plan must be people driven and all-inclusive,” Umar stated.

Sanusi Maikudi, a guest speaker at the event, underscored the importance of entrepreneurship for reaching prosperity.

He cautioned the youth against being manipulated by political interests and stressed the need for self-reliance and peaceful coexistence.

The convener of the Arewa Think Tank, Alhaji Muhammad Yakubu, expressed gratitude to the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for their collaboration in the event.

He urged the youth to embrace entrepreneurship and reduce dependence on government jobs, fostering economic development and personal fulfillment.

Religious leaders Dr. Adams Almanar and Sheikh Ibrahim Disina also addressed the assembly, warning against the repercussions of protests.urging the youth to engage in prayer and peaceful dialogue.

By Ibrahim Ammani

The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation expresses deep concern over the current socio-economic situation in the country. The dire economic conditions, characterized by record-high inflation and skyrocketing prices, have inflicted severe hardships upon Nigerians, making it increasingly arduous to meet their basic needs.

While we acknowledge the growing apprehension and restlessness among citizens, particularly the youth, we vehemently discourage any form of protests. History has shown that such protests are often exploited by opportunistic elements, leading to rampant violence, looting, arson, and senseless loss of lives and properties. Any disruption of law and order will only exacerbate the already dire economic situation, further amplifying the suffering of our people.

We urgently call upon parents, religious leaders, and community influencers to actively engage with their children and wards, strongly urging them to refrain from participating in any form of riotous activities. It is imperative that we safeguard peace and stability for the collective well-being of our beloved nation.

Furthermore, we implore religious, political, and traditional leaders to initiate immediate and substantive dialogue with the government, effectively highlighting the profound hardships faced by our people. Constructive engagement is of paramount importance in identifying and implementing lasting solutions to the socio-economic challenges that confront our great nation.

In addition to championing dialogue, we underscore the vital significance of collaborative efforts between the Federal, State and Local Governments in addressing the prevailing situation. Local and State Governments must actively collaborate with the Federal Government to implement robust mass employment programmes, poverty eradication initiatives, and the active encouragement of youth engagement in agricultural and SME activities. By creating ample employment opportunities and nurturing entrepreneurship, we can alleviate the economic burdens borne by Nigerians and empower our youth to become agents of national development.

Governments at all levels must redouble their efforts to urgently bring down the exorbitant prices of essential commodities, particularly food items, which directly impacts the lives of our people. It is imperative that decisive measures are taken to ensure the availability and affordability of food for all citizens.

Furthermore, elected members of legislative bodies at both the State and Federal levels must diligently fulfill their mandate to represent and advocate for the interests of their constituents. They must be proactive in ensuring that the concerns and grievances of the people are heard, acknowledged, and addressed effectively.

The Federal Government must intensify efforts to combat insecurity, particularly in the North, where bandits and kidnappers pose a constant threat to the lives and well-being of Nigerians. Swift action is needed to protect citizens from violence and extortion by bandits to ensure people can access their farms and business activities without fear of being kidnapped.

The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation remains resolutely committed to promoting dialogue, peace, and holistic development in Nigeria. We stand firmly ready to offer our unwavering support to all efforts aimed at effectively addressing the pressing issues that confront our society. Together, through dialogue, collaborative action, and effective governance, we have the capacity to triumph over the challenges we face and build an inclusive and prosperous society that benefits all Nigerians.

Signed,
Engr Dr. Abubakar Gambo Umar
Director-General

By Ibrahim Ammani

The National Coalition of APC 19 States Support Group Against Corruption And Corrupt Practices , has called on the Kaduna State Government to investigate the former Commissioner Ministry of Human Services and social development Hajiya Hafsat Baba over alleged corruption and mismanagement of public funds and 1,500 Red Goats meant for the participants in the adolescent Girls empowerment programme.

The group made the call at a press conference by the National Chairman Dr. Maina Gimba in Kaduna.

Dr. Gimba who is double as The Director General Anti Corruption Corps, said the calls for investigation came at a time when the Kaduna state government is taking bold steps against corruptions.

Hajiya Hafsat Baba has been accused of diverting funds meant for empowering the less previladge people in Kaduna State and using them to share with her families and associates, other allegations.

His words “Our group has followed carefully the attempt of the Kaduna state house of Assembly to that fairness and justice is done on the issue of accountability in governance in Kaduna State”

“We have conducted investigation and have gathered data on how the public funds and other useful supports properties of Kaduna state meant for the poor and orphans were diverted by the then Hon. Commissioner of Human Services And Social Development, Kaduna State, Hajiya Hafsat Baba”

Dr. Maina Gimba, explained that at risk children programme initiatives by the office of the vice president ( Yemi Osibanjo) for entrepreneur training in Which a total number of 1. 500 Red Goats for rearing was sent to the ministry through the then commissioner for onward delivery to the participant who are masses of Kaduna state but Hafsat Baba, diverted the entire 1,500 Red Goats without giving any to the participants.

“During the seven Days entrepreneur training, the then commissioner Hajiya Hafsat Baba unathically took over the contract of supply of food meant for the participants through her biological Daughter By Name Hauwa’u Baba. The commissioner equally diverted the sum of Fifteen Million Naira only ( N15,000,000,00) meant for feeding of the said Red Goats”

” Similarly the sum of Three million Naira ( 3,000,000,00) meant for the celebration on the occasion of the independent Day in 2022 that was not release in due time until in December,2022 was never remitted back to the ministry of Finance, Kaduna state as the protocols demand since the said funds were not used for the purpose in which it was released but rather the then commissioner of ministry of Human Services and social development diverted the said sum to her personal use”

” There was also a case of Data collection of Almajiri’s children from selected 16 Local government of Kaduna state in which the commissioner falsely claimed and collected the sum of three million Naira under the guise of transporting the case managers for the exercise for 21 days across the selected 16 Local government which never happened as each of the LGA transported themselves through the exercise “

” Some Almajiri’s were shortlisted and bank account opened in their name for the purpose of paying into the shortlisted Almajiri’s Bank Account, the sum of ten Thousand Naira ( (N10,000) for the period of six months. But to our surprise and dismay, the shortlisted Almajiri’s only received two months payment and the rest of the money for four months were diverted by the Hajiya Hafsat Baba despite been released. That all the Bank Account are domicile in Keystone Bank under the supervision and control of her son by name Ahmed Mohammed Baba who also happened to be a staff of the said Bank”

On the alleged diversion of rehabilitations home by the former Commissioner, Dr. Gimba noted that “in 2019, a private rehabilitation homes were raided due to the dehumanizing nature of the said rehabilitation home. The affected rehabilitation home in Rigasa were In Hanbal Rehabilitation home and Malam Nigga rehabilitation home Rigasa all raided by the Kaduna state government and inmate were lodged at Hajj Camp, The then commissioner Hafsat Baba Applied for the sum of six million Naira ( N6,000,000,00)as allowance to the staff under her ministry who were involved in the exercise. The said ( N6,000,000,00) were released by the Kaduna state government but diverted by commissioner and was h staff involved in the exercise”

Speaking further, the Anti- Corruption Director, said every field work engaged by the staff of the ministry, the then commissioner Hajiya Hafsat Baba’ do compel the staff to pay some percentage of whatever few or amount gotten from the field work to her as facilitation.

The group called on the state government to immediate investigate the activities of the ministry of Human Services and social development under Hajiya Hafsat Baba, urged for prosecutions.

By Aminu Abba

Hon. Mahmud Lawal, a member of the Kaduna State House of Assembly representing Zaria constituency, has described former Governor Nasiru El-Rufai’s decision to pursue legal action regarding the ongoing probe into alleged misappropriation of N432 billion during his tenure as “laughable” and “the final desperate act of a failing administration.”

In an interview with our correspondent in Kaduna, Hon. Lawal, also known as Bola Ige, a member of the committee investigating the alleged misappropriation, expressed dismay at El-Rufai’s sudden interest in the judiciary after neglecting it for so long.

“El-Rufa’i seems to have conveniently forgotten the Principle of Separation of Powers enshrined in the constitution, which mandates non-interference between the executive, legislature, and judiciary. Does he believe that by resorting to legal action, he can obstruct the legislature from carrying out its constitutional duties? Rest assured, El-Rufa’i will face the consequences of his actions, and the public will soon witness this,” he emphasized.

The lawmaker highlighted that Kaduna State had never experienced such blatant misuse of public funds as under El-Rufai’s tenure, where funds were allegedly misappropriated under the guise of project implementation. He noted that the claimed expenditures were significantly disproportionate to the actual work accomplished.

“For instance, let me illustrate what occurred at Kofar Doka in Zaria, my constituency. Billions of Naira were purportedly allocated for road projects, but tragically, the only visible activity was bulldozers demolishing people’s homes, rendering them homeless,” he revealed.

Lawal further criticized the projects carried out by the El-Rufa’i administration in Kaduna State, alleging that they were primarily aimed at personal enrichment, with little regard for the welfare of the populace. He pointed out the deteriorating condition of roads from Unguwar Dosa to Malali and the questionable work undertaken at Kasuwar Magani in Kajuru. The shops started to wear off even before occupation by traders. The most brazen display of dishonesty was the metropolitan rail line project, for which a substantial amount of money in billions was allocated. But what happened to the project, and where is the money? The only evidence seems to be paper records indicating spending on surveys and map design.”

Hon. Mahmud Lawal Bola Ige further explained that the public funds misappropriated by El-Rufai administration under the guise of projects execution amount to more than N432 billion and urged the people of Kaduna State to support the probe committee in their efforts to recover the funds for the benefit of all.