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… Insists recovery of looted funds very necessary

…Warns Against Elrufai’s interference

Kaduna Based development monitoring group under aegis of Forum for Good Governance (FFGG) has backed the arrest of former Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance and Local Government, Mohammed Bashir Sa’idu over allegations of money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds.

The former Commissioner,who served under Governor Nasir Elrufai’s administration was arrested following a petition,where he was accused of laundering N3.96 billion and misappropriating N244 million between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement made available to journalists today, the Forum for Good Governance in Kaduna said there was nothing wrong with his arrest , especially when the issue revolves around looting of public funds.

The group in the Statement signed by Hon. Ahmadu Ibrahim Kauru warned against any attempt by Elrufai to interfere with the process must be resisted vehemently. Recalled that same Elrufai never had respect for rule of law when he was Governor.

We gathered that Elrufai in his days as Governor arrested and detained innocent journalists several and media practitioners such as; Luka Binniyat of Vanguard Newspapers ,Jacob Dickson of Authentic Newspaper , Stephen Kefas and Gabriel Idibia and nobody dated challenged him.

While noting that recovery of looted funds is very necessary now that Kaduna state is highly indebted,the Forum insisted that ,” His arrest must not be politicised because we all know that once an agency arrest an individual for looting of public funds or financial crime,it is in order.

The statement further reads: Allegations such as misappropriation of funds, sale of $45 million in state-owned foreign currency at an undervalued exchange rate of N410 per dollar, instead of the parallel market rate of N498 per dollar, causing a loss of over N3.96 billion to the government.

“Additionally, he is accused of failing to account for proceeds from the sale of government houses in Marafa Estate, Kaduna, amounting to approximately N244 million.

“We gathered from reports that the Kaduna State House of Assembly previously investigated Sa’idu’s financial dealings and forwarded its findings to anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC and ICPC.

“We are happy that the police confirmed his arrest was not politically motivated but, followed by credible allegations of financial crimes and will remain in detention as investigations continue.”

Jamilu Adamu

LAGOS, Dec 31 (Reuters) – The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has commended the governors of Adamawa and Bauchi states for taking steps to promote cultural identity and self-determination in their respective states.

According to a press release by MBF President, Dr. Bitrus Porgu, on December 31, 2024, Governor Adamu Ahamdu Fintiri of Adamawa state has created new Chiefdoms and Emirates, including Hoba Emirate (Hong, 2nd Class), Madagali Emirate (Gulak, 2nd Class), Michika Emirate (Michika, 2nd Class), Fufore Emirate (Fufore, 2nd Class), Gombi Chiefdom (Gombi, 3rd Class), Maiha Chiefdom (Maiha, 3rd Class), and Yungur Chiefdom (Dumne, 3rd Class).

“This is a landmark achievement that will enhance cultural identity, bridge the gap between government and local communities, and attract development to the new Emirates and Chiefdoms,” Dr. Porgu said.

The MBF also commended Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state for his intention to create a Chiefdom for the Sayawa (Zaar) people of Tafawa Balewa town. “This development is long overdue, and we pledge our support for the Governor’s decision,” Dr. Porgu said.

“The Sayawa people have the right to host the headquarters of their new Chiefdom in Tafawa Balewa, given their traditional, cultural, historical, and legal rights to the land,” he emphasized.

The MBF urged other state governors in the region to follow suit, promoting cultural identity and self-determination in their respective states. “We believe that this development will go a long way in promoting peace, stability, and development in the region,” Dr. Porgu said.

The MBF also called on the Governor of Borno state, Prof. Abbagana Zulum, to liberate ethnic nationalities in Southern Borno from the rule of the Kanem Borno empire. (Reporting by Mike Odeh James; Editing by [Your Name])

Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani has blasted the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Mal.Nasir Elrufai over recent comments made via his social media handle on alleged issues of Nepotism at NNPCL against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Farooq Kperogi, a US-based Nigerian professor of journalism had accused Tinubu of governing Nigeria with a Lagos mindset.

According to the scholar, Tinubu chose to dominate the economy with people from the South-West the way former President Muhammadu Buhari loaded the security sector with northerners during his administration

Elrufai later shared Kperogi’s post on his X handle and said, “Two wrongs don’t make a right”, adding that sensible inclusion trumps senseless exclusion.

However in a swift reaction to Elrufai ‘s shared post, Comrade Shehu Sani via his X handle replied, ” “There were people who were silent when Buhari was fielding political offices with his Kinsmen, and have now found their voice to speak out when the equation doesn’t favour them.

The former lawmaker, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District in 8th Senate overtly referred to Elrufai adding “Lets not make reference to the nepotism that marginalised Southern Kaduna for eight years.Kaduna was an apartheid state for eight years.”

According to Shehu Sani, anyone can talk or criticize President Tinubu on issues of alleged lopsided appointments or Nepotism, but certainly not Elrufai.

By Ibrahim S. Tinja

In a groundbreaking move, the Arewa Ears Community Development Forum has launched its inaugural youths empowerment program in Potiskum/Nangere Local Government of Yobe State. The initiative aims to educate and empower northern Nigerian youths about various federal government programs, providing them with the necessary tools to improve their livelihoods and businesses.

Muazu Muhammad, the Chief Executive Officer of the forum, emphasized the organization’s commitment to serving as the voice of northern youths, advocating for jobs, empowerment, and government interventions that benefit all. To achieve this, the forum has forged a strategic partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Department Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to provide support to youths in Potiskum and Nangere federal constituency.

According to Muazu Muhammad, “The empowerment program was initiated by the forum to awaken the northern Nigerian youths on various federal government programs. We serve as the voice of the entire northern youths in seeking jobs, empowerment, and other government interventions for the benefits of all.”

The forum also plans to collaborate with Hajiya Fatima Talba, the member representing Nangere and Potiskum federal constituency, to develop and implement people-oriented policies and programs. Governor Mai Mala Buni was commended for his support to the organization, while the 500 empowered youths were urged to utilize the grants provided to enhance their livelihood conditions and businesses.

During the occasion, the forum presented awards to Governor Buni as the Best Northern Governor of the Year and Hon. Fatima Talba as the Best Northern Woman of the Year. This empowerment program marks a significant milestone in the forum’s efforts to promote youth development and economic growth in northern Nigeria.

The launch of the empowerment program was attended by dignitaries from across the region, including government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives from SMEDAN. The event was a testament to the forum’s commitment to empowering northern youths and promoting economic growth in the region.

By Ibrahim H Tinja.

One-time former permanent representative of Nigeria at the united nations late Maitama Sule, a politician of high refute, and elderly stateman who held the Danmasanin Kano, a chieftaincy titled given to talented and a respected person in the northern land says, “the joy of a dying father is the presence of a worthy successor”. As aptly, opined by the diplomat the late Dan Masanin Kano, the new man saddled with the responsibility of harnessing the objectives and mission of SMEDAN Charles Odii, has so set a flank to complements the lofty goals of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is in tandem with the modus operandi for successful voyage to the SME business in Nigeria.

Less than a year into the office, the director general of the SMEDAN began to change the story of the organization by stressing on the president’s mission to work on the modalities to cleanse and aid business within the tame line of the those expected to benefits and guided lawfully. This is why he’s receiving commendations from all and sundry.

The Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii, started his impactful initiatives resulting in the creation of  over 30,000 jobs across the country which is the bedrock of grooming a self-dependent country, and ensured the facilitation of over 7 billion naira in funding for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) considering its importance to a productive nation.  He also introduces a seven-point prosperity agenda focusing on providing SMEs with access to finance, markets, capacity building, partnerships, a business-friendly environment, and streamlined processes for sustainable growth. Achieving key milestones in less a year, he implemented reforms at SMEDAN, incorporating digital and data-driven approaches to address challenges hindering SME growth and foster prosperity.

Mr. Odii’s appointment as the head of the agency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu based on his extensive contributions to the MSME sector, including the design and execution of projects that highlight and facilitate support for small businesses in Nigeria and across the continent as well as his unblemished record in public service he dedicates himself to. This why president Tinubu is receiving kudos for choosing a patriot. 

These accomplishments align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda for inclusive economic growth and poverty eradication among various class of Nigerians. Mr. Odii’s success distinguishes him as a key contributor to the administration’s goals, impacting grassroots communities and laying the foundation for rapid rural industrialization, a crucial solution to Nigeria’s economic challenges as a deliberate intention to nail dwindling economic fluctuation instead to chart a course for a lasting panacea to all sorts of poverty and over dependence.

Within a spine of time sanity have been brought to the SMEDAN, hope and confidence been rejigged among staffs. Truancy being addressed, diversion of responsibility is encouraged to better output of the SMEDAN.

One remarkable trait that distinguishes DG Charles Odii among his peers elsewhere is that, he has a listening ear and is not arrogant as not to accept advice or counsel from those he associates with (be it young or old). As a demonstration of his readiness to carry the people along with him, the first thing he began shortly after preparing his mind to serve to the people freely as part of developmental voyage was seeking divine intervention to a smooth discharge of SMEDAN’s objectives which tally with president’s mandate for a better Nigeria. 

Like a magic, Charles coming restores the fading glory of SMEDAN, youths and women are overwhelmed for having a prosperous life through the multiple drives been implemented  that is directly impacting on their lives and businesses, poor Nigerians are now raising their head high with joy,  hailing president Tinubu for a rightful decision to bring a loyal person with proven integrity and steadfast to ensuring proper actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

I’m not Nostradamus, but, I’m affirmative before ending of 2025 Director Genaral Odii, will totally overhaul SMEADAN to Nigeria’s number one job providing place and no iorta of poverty will remain in our loved nation.

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BY ISAIAH BENJAMIN

Kaduna

As part of end of year activities preparatory to the celebration of Christmas, the Seat of God (SOG) ministries hosted over 1000 of both members of the church and non members of the church to a get together.

The get together followed a thanks giving service where praises and prayers where offered in appreciation to the Almighty God as many testified to.the goodness of God over their lives and those of their families from January – December 2024.

Aside the get together which involved dinning and winning, the church also distributed food items and cash to members and non members as a way of teaching our to those in need.

Earlier in his sermon during the thanksgiving service, His Lordship, Bishop Ademola Tinuoye charged the congregants to always have a reason to thank God, stressing that nif for nothing at least because they are counted among the living.

” A grateful heart will always be thankful, when you are thankful to God, he will always do more for you” while sitting how ten lepers where healed but only one returned and only that one was made whole.

He emphasised that thankfulness is the gate pass to the presence of God, adding that when we are thankful to God for what he has done, God will not only perfect it, he will do more,he stressed.

Some of the beneficiaries of the food items and cash commended the church for it’s magnanimity and prayed God to increase the ministry.

For Mrs Dorathy Ejimatswa ” I am indeed for the show of love, we were fed with sumptuous food and thereafter given food items and cash. May God bless the church, I am grateful to the Church and the Bishop”.

ENDS

In recognition of his contributions to environmental causes , Kaduna State University (KASU) has appointed former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani’s the Ambassador of the institution’s Green Sustainability Initiative.

The appointment conveyed in a letter signed by the Chairman, Green KASU Committee, Kaduna State University,Dr. Aliyu Jafaar Abubakar revealed that the decision to appoint Senator Shehu Sani was based on his vast knowledge, national and international connections, and proven track record of advocacy uniquely position as an invaluable ally in advancing the mission.

According to the letter, the Green KASU Sustainability Initiative is driven by the Institution’s collective resolve to foster environmental awareness; implement sustainable practices, and build partnerships that champion a
greener and more resilient future.

The letter further reads,”In light of this, it is my great honor, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and Kaduna State University, to nominate you as an Ambassador of the “Green KASU” Sustainability Initiative.

“As an ambassador, your influence and guidance would be instrumental in fostering collaborations, securing resources, and raising awareness about sustainability, both within our institution and beyond.

This opportunity aligns with the legacy of leadership and advocacy you have built over the years.Your contributions as an ambassador would cement your indelible mark in shaping a greener future for generations to come.

This role is not only a recognition of your contributions to environmental causes, but also an invitation to partner with us in expanding the reach and impact of this initiative.

“Your keen interest,insightful perspectives, and demonstrated commitment to environmental
causes left an indelible impression on us.

“We were particularly inspired by your quiet yet impactful contributions to advancing environmental sustainability, which reflect both your deep understanding of these issues and your unwavering dedication to societal well-being.”

By Aliyu Umar

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has thrown its weight behind the appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).

In a press statement issued by the President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF expressed concern over what they described as a “mix-up” in the appointments announced on December 6, 2024. The AYCF acknowledged the contributions of Hajia Fatima Umaru-Shinkafi, who was reappointed to the role after Danfulani’s initial appointment was reversed.

However, they argued that the sector requires new leadership to achieve greater heights. They highlighted Danfulani’s background in banking, computing, and business administration, as well as his experience at the Central Bank of Nigeria and as Zamfara State Commissioner of Commerce and Industry.

According to the AYCF, Danfulani’s innovative approach and expertise make him an ideal candidate to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda for the solid minerals sector. They believe that his leadership would help revitalize the SMDF/PAGMI and drive reforms in the critical solid minerals sector.

The group urged President Tinubu to review the decision in favor of Danfulani’s leadership. The Solid Minerals Development Fund and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative are crucial components of Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and boost non-oil revenue.

The AYCF’s call for reconsideration of Danfulani’s appointment comes at a time when the country is seeking to drive reforms in the solid minerals sector. The group highlights the importance of appointing a leader with the right expertise and vision to lead the SMDF/PAGMI.

They believe that the success of these initiatives hinges on the appointment of a leader with the right expertise and vision to drive them forward. In their view, Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is the ideal candidate for this role, and they are urging President Tinubu to reconsider his appointment in order to achieve the desired goals for the solid minerals sector.

The AYCF’s stance on this issue highlights the importance of leadership in driving the success of any organization or initiative. A leader with the right expertise and vision can inspire and motivate their team, set clear goals and objectives, and make strategic decisions that will lead to success.

In the case of the SMDF and PAGMI, the AYCF believes that Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani possesses the necessary qualities to lead these initiatives to success. Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the solid minerals sector.

He has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and has a proven track record of delivering results in similar roles. His vision for the sector aligns with the goals of the SMDF and PAGMI, and his leadership style is one that inspires confidence and trust in those around him.

President Tinubu’s appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani would send a strong signal to the industry and the international community that Nigeria is serious about developing its solid minerals sector. It would also ensure that the SMDF and PAGMI have the leadership they need to succeed in achieving their goals of promoting sustainable development, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth.

Musa Adamu

ABUJA, Dec 2 – A prominent Nigerian civil rights activist, Luka Binniyat, on Sunday called on the federal government to monitor and reassess the activities of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Binnyat made this remark to journalists in Abuja on December 1st, 2024. while receiving delegates from the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria.

He noted that the Niger Delta region just like the Middle south-south have suffered long enough from marginalization and underdevelopment leading to the creation of the NDDC and so it is important for the Commission to perform its statutory role .

“I am urging the NDDC managing to as a matter of urgency do what it needs to be done by creating more jobs, stimulating the economy of the Niger Delta and carrying the Youths along .

“Everyday, we read in the news from the Youths about the high rate of underdevelopment in the Niger Delta region and I asked myself what is the NDDC doing .

“That is why I am calling on the Federal Government to reassess the activities of the commission and reprioritize Youths development goals

The Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria has criticized the commission, established in 2000 to develop the oil-rich Niger Delta region, had failed to deliver on its mandates despite receiving over 6 trillion naira ($14.7 billion) since its inception.

According to the Nigerian Delta State Coordinator for the UYAN, Comrade Gbenga Fajoye,

“The NDDC has been plagued by corruption, mismanagement and abandonment of projects since it’s inception

“It is imperative that the federal government takes decisive action to ensure the commission operates transparently and effectively.”

Fajoye expressed disappointment with the current Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stating that he has fallen short of expectations. Specifically, Fajoye noted that the Managing Director has failed to create job opportunities and stimulate a conducive environment for the development of the Niger Delta region.

“I am in sync with my colleagues from Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and other areas that the NDDC has performed below par,” Fajoye said. “He has failed to carry the Niger Delta Youths along, he has not really created employment opportunities nor generated any meaningful development for the Nigerian Delta region.”

The Rivers State coordinator for the Unemployed Youth Association of Nigeria (UYAN), Comrade Osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro emphasized the need for fresh perspectives and new leadership in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

“The current Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission is from Bayelsa and he has spent his four years?” Comrade osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro noted, highlighting the need for change.

She appealed to the Federal Government, saying, “I am appealing to the Federal Government to allow a sound technocrat and administrator from another state to come on board as the MD and inject new ideas.”

Comrade Osaruchi Rosamund Idumesaro stressed the importance of fairness and equity, stating, “We want to move forward and we want equity and fairness, let the MD position be rotated to another state.”

The Bayelsa state coordinator, Comrade Amadoma God-help, has announced that the group is consulting with human rights activists, civil society groups, and other related youth groups to stage a mass protest in Abuja and Port Harcourt. This move is aimed at pushing for their previously stated demands to be met.

“At this stage, we are still consulting as we are in talks with youth groups and civil society groups around the country. Then we shall proceed to the National Assembly with our demands,” the coordinator said.

He emphasized that failure to consider their demands would lead to mass action on the streets of Abuja and Port Harcourt.

By; ERNEST NOSA, Kaduna

The Senate has passed a bill seeking to give legal framework for the establishment of Nigerian Police Force Training Institutions.

Reports have it that the passage of the bill followed the adoption of the report of the Committee on Police Affairs at plenary Wednesday.

The report was presented by the chairman of the committee, Sen. Abdulhamid Ahmed (APC-Jigawa).

Ahmed, while presenting the report, said that the passage of the bill would help improve the operations of the institutions and ultimately enhance the capacity of police personnel for better results.

He said that the bill, when passed, would further motivate police personnel to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.

Ahmed expressed regret that many of the institutions in the country lacked legal and adequate funding to practice and function effectively despite their years of establishment.

“Some of them were not in good condition due to years of neglect by the authorities and previous administrations.”

According to him, the bill, when passed, will make the institutions serve as high-level centres for the provision of professional training and other related matters.

On own part, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP-Bauchi) said it was important for the bill to be passed, as it would support the police force in its operations and make it stand the test of time.

Ningi emphasised the need to get the best personnel to man the force, stressing that the passage of the bill would provide the required training for the personnel.