Author Archives: News All Around

Mike Odeh James

A wave of targeted assassinations and kidnappings has been reported in Southern Kaduna, Nigeria, with a prominent medical union leader barely escaping death. The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has confirmed the incident, which is part of a larger pattern of violence in the region.

Southern Kaduna, a buffer zone between Nigeria’s majority Muslim northwest and Christian-dominated Middle Belt, has seen a surge in attacks on prominent individuals. The Southern Kaduna People Union (SOKAPU) has raised the alarm, citing cases of kidnapping and murder.

According to SOKAPU’s Public Relations Officer, Josiah Yusuf Abraks, several high-profile individuals have been targeted, including the District Head of Garu community, Alhaji Babangida Adamu Suleiman, who was kidnapped by suspected armed herdsmen. Pastor Peter Shabanyan was also assassinated in his home, and Dr. Ishaya James was killed, with eight others kidnapped in Kauru LGA.

Caleb Musa Kantiyok Dogo, Chairman of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) Kaduna State branch, narrowly escaped assassination on Wednesday. He recounted the incident, stating that four gunmen arrived at his home, pretending to have an appointment with him, but their suspicious behavior and weapons revealed their true intentions.

Dogo, who is also the immediate past National Deputy Chairman of Bajju Development Association (BADA), has had concerns for his safety since his uncle’s murder in 2015. He reported the incident to the police and notified SOKAPU and the Middle Belt Forum.

The Chairman of the Middle Belt Forum, Kaduna State Chapter, Comrade Luka Binniyat, expressed concern over the targeted attacks, stating that it appears Fulani herdsmen are intentionally targeting important community members for elimination or kidnapping. He called on community members to secure their communities, as the government seems incapable of doing so.

By Musa Bello

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has brought to public’s attention disturbing developments concerning the planned dissemination of a press statement by the Arewa Integrity League, allegedly sponsored by Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State. The said statement is expected to contain false claims and fabricated allegations aimed at discrediting key figures in Nigeria’s national security architecture, including the National Security Adviser, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector General of Police; the Director-General of the Department of State Security, Mr. Yusuf Bichi; and the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

According to the Chairman NAN, Salihu Suleiman, in the planned offensive by the Arewa Integrity League, its spokesman, Comrade Musa Garba, would seek to create a narrative suggesting that these esteemed officials have engaged in manipulative tactics to engineer false reports implicated in a high-profile ongoing investigation tied to the arrest of Bashir Hadejiya. He said, such unfounded attack aims primarily to tarnish the reputations of individuals who are steadfast in their commitment to national security and the principles of justice, while simultaneously seeking to obfuscate the real issues surrounding the investigation.

“We, at NAN, firmly believe that any attempts to distort the truth for political leverage are not only unethical but also detrimental to the integrity of our national institutions. The nature of these allegations raises serious concerns regarding the intentions behind such a coordinated smear campaign against responsible officials who are executing their duties to ensure law and order within our great nation”

NAN therefore called on the public to remain vigilant and discerning when consuming information that may serve as propaganda rather than fact. The role of the media and the public is crucial in upholding our democratic values and ensuring that truth prevails over deceitful narratives.

It also called on Law Enforcement Agencies to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. We encourage these bodies to diligently pursue the ongoing investigations without political interference and to ensure that those who promote falsehoods face the necessary legal repercussions.

NAN further called on political leaders to conduct their affairs with integrity and honor, refraining from engaging in character assassinations that detract from the greater good of society. It is imperative for leaders to focus on genuine issues affecting our communities, rather than resorting to underhanded tactics that threaten our unity.

“We also call on Civil Society Organizations to play their part in safeguarding the integrity of our governance systems by calling out misinformation and holding accountable those who perpetuate falsehoods for their own ends”.

The NAN also declared their stand in solidarity with the individuals targeted by this nefarious campaign, recognizing their dedication and service to our nation’s security and stability. We will not shy away from advocating for truth and justice while exposing those who choose to weaponize falsehoods for personal or political gain.

NAN reiterated their commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of truth in governance and implored all citizens and leaders to reject division and embrace integrity, prioritizing the collective interest of our nation above all else.

A group, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Credibility Movement, has described the series of allegations against the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, in recent weeks as baseless.

The group’s Chairman, Musa Sadauki, said in a statement on Friday that Mele Kyari has faced a barrage of unsubstantiated accusations from a shadowy group known as the Tinubu Legacy Coalition (TLC) over the past week.

According to Sadauki, this group, led by figures such as Bala Abu, Princess Ajibola, and Dr. Thomas, has launched a campaign to tarnish Kyari’s reputation with unfounded claims.

Musa labeled the attacks a “campaign of calamity” destined to fail.

The APC supporters argued that Kyari’s track record as a transformative leader in the oil and gas sector is undeniable.

Sadauki said, “Through his implementation of the TAPE synergy—an initiative aimed at curbing corruption and waste within the NNPCL—Kyari has proven himself a formidable administrator.”

The Chairman argued that these attacks are driven by disgruntled elements whose illegal activities, including oil bunkering, have been thwarted under Kyari’s leadership.

“We contend that these individuals are attempting to destabilize the NNPCL to pave the way for their own economic interests, but emphasize that their efforts are futile,” he said.

Musa reminded the attackers that Nigeria’s interests are far greater than any individual’s personal gain.

Meanwhile, the statement called on those behind the smear campaign to abandon their efforts and instead contribute positively to the nation.

“As Nigeria continues to face numerous challenges, including economic hardship and insecurity, President Bola Tinubu remains focused on his mission to address these issues,” the statement said.

It stressed that undermining key figures like the NNPCL boss will only hinder the nation’s progress.

The group expressed confidence in Kyari’s leadership and commitment to transparency and accountability.

They urged Nigerians to disregard the baseless allegations and support the NNPCL’s efforts to transform the oil and gas sector.

The APC Credibility Movement pledged to continue supporting Kyari and the NNPCL in their efforts to promote Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

In conclusion, the group emphasized that the allegations against Kyari are unfounded and will not distract him from his mission to transform the NNPCL and promote Nigeria’s interests.

Northern based Group, Arewa Development Forum (ADF) has commended the Minister of Works , Engr. Dave Umahi for his unwavering commitment to ensuring speedy work and visible progress made so far on the Lagos- Badagry to Sokoto Super Highway road projects.

According to the group, the excellent job of combining the expertise of the critical terrain with the political will by the Minister to push through the different land mines without compromising standards is a feat worthy of commendation.

“We observed with keen interest that despite being from the southeast part of Nigeria, the Minister of Works is leaving now stone unturned to ensure speedy completion of the protracted work of the Abuja to road projects in northern areas”. It stated .

In statement made available to journalists in Kaduna today, Arewa Development Forum, which made the commendations said , the decision to single out the Minister of Works was informed by quality of work being done on the ongoing road projects

While thanking President Bola Tinubu for the bold initiative to construct the 1000-kilometre Sokoto-Badagry superhighway,the Forum described the project as another evidence of his commitment to driving phenomenal socio-economic growth across the country.

The Forum noted that the road will not only create thousands of jobs ,but will also open up the North western economy to the rest of the country and the World.Adding that Umahi is the best Works minister in the history of the country.

It stated , “We can recall that the Sokoto-Badagry road has been in the pipeline for the past 48 years, without considerations from successive administrations, including immediate past Buhari led administration to kick start the project. But today,it is a reality and we are not in doubt that the legacy projects will be complete within time scheduled.

“For us as northerners, we view the bold vision of President Tinubu as an evidence of the priority placed on development that commensurate with infrastructure to connect northern regions to all parts of Nigeria.”

By Jonathan Itodo

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has condemned in strong terms recent calls for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mele Kyari, describing it as mischievous.

Speaker AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul DanBature in a statement said, the call for Kyari’s sack was yet another subtle way to get at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after their failed efforts to hijack the peaceful protests to destabilize the country.

He averred that those sponsoring and clamouring for his sack are those who engaged in oil theft who no longer have the opportunity to continue with such business and are committed to getting at the President using the call for Kyari’s sack as a cover in the first instance.

According to Danbature, it is in public space that from a low of 900,000 barrels monthly oil production in the last quarter of 2022, under the Kyari-led NNPCL, Nigeria in July 2024 hit 1.53 million barrels per day, including condensates, according to data from the upstream regulator.

He recalled that, “When Kyari assumed duty as the head of NNPC on July 7, 2019, it was at a critical period not only in the life of the corporation but for the entire Nigerian oil and gas sector as well as the national economy. It was a turbulent period characterized by low production, burgeoning vandalism of oil pipelines, oil theft on a grand scale, and demoralized staff of the corporation”

The Speaker also averred that Kyari has been a beacon of transparency and accountability. “His scorecard is impressive, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. However, with great success comes great envy, and Kyari is now facing opposition from forces of evil who seek to tarnish his reputation.

“When Kyari took over as GMD in 2019, he inherited a company plagued by questions about its business practices. But he has since turned things around with his Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) initiative.

“He has published audited financial statements, made monthly financial and operations reports available to the public, and has been instrumental in the rehabilitation of refineries.

“Despite these achievements, some individuals are bent on destroying Kyari’s reputation. It is clear that these forces of evil are motivated by jealousy and a desire to bring Kyari down. But their efforts will not succeed. Kyari’s achievements speak for themselves, and he has the support of the government and the people,” he said.

He therefore appealed to progressive Nigerians not to listen to such calls for the sack of a man who is committed and giving his best in the oil sector, adding that their efforts to destabilize the oil sector through such envious calls has failed.

“As a group committed to good leadership, we have seen a capable hand in the person of Mele Kyari and we will do whatever it takes legitimately to support him to continue to achieve success in the oil sector” he stressed.

By Maryanne Bishir

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN), compelled by a profound sense of outrage and resolve, wishes to address the appalling revelations surrounding the arrest of one Bashir Hadejiya—a man whose nefarious activities pose a severe threat not only to the sovereignty of our great nation but also to the very fabric of our society. This flagrant case of treason, gun-running, and transnational crime serves as a clarion call for all Nigerians to confront the alarming reality we face: a sinister nexus of criminality that extends beyond our borders and threatens the stability of our Republic.

First and foremost, we commend the Nigerian security agencies for their extraordinary success in apprehending Bashir Hadejiya. This arrest reflects the unwavering commitment and diligence of our defense and law enforcement agencies, who deserve our unequivocal support as they confront these criminal elements.

According to a statement issued by Salifu Suleiman, Chairman NAN, the ability of the security agencies to unravel such an intricate web of deceit and treason is commendable and must be acknowledged. However, we must not simply rest on the laurels of this significant achievement; the roots of this menace run deep, and we must act decisively.

The cross-national implications brought to light by Mr. Hadejiya’s confession are alarming. His links to the gun-running trade, combined with his involvement in the smuggling of gold believed to be stolen from the Central Bank of Libya, reveal a dangerous partnership with international criminal networks. These conspirators are not only undermining our national integrity but also facilitating the flow of arms and financial resources that fuel terrorism and instability across the West African region. This is an affront to our sovereignty and an invasion of our peace.

Reports surrounding Hadejiya’s arrest paint a grim picture of a man entangled in a web of criminality that transcends national borders. The insidious nature of his activities—money laundering, arms smuggling, and support for terrorism—should serve as a wake-up call for all of us. His confessions unveil a shadowy underbelly that threatens not only the stability of Nigeria but poses a significant threat to regional and global security.

Criminal networks, such as the one Hadejiya is part of, do not recognize borders; their implications ripple through societies, fostering violence, fear, and socio-economic decay. Moreover, the fact that Mr. Hadejiya has openly confessed to sponsoring various protests, including the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations that erupted across our nation, is a cause for grave concern. Such activities, twisted and corrupted by ulterior motives, threaten to undermine legitimate calls for accountability and reform.

Instead of addressing the grievances of the people, they have precipitated chaos on the streets, destabilized communities, and compromised the security of our nation. It is shocking, infuriating even, to learn that Hadejiya was connected to the devastations of the recent #EndBadGovernance Protests across northern Nigeria, where young people, driven by pent-up grievances, were manipulated and sponsored by a criminal element seeking to exploit their frustrations.

Not only did Bashir Hadejiya fund these protests, but he also engineered violence by spearheading attacks on political entities, including the assault on the Jigawa State APC headquarters, and the destruction in Kano, Kaduna, and Abuja. This exploitation of legitimate dissent by criminal conspirators underscores the need for greater vigilance and accountability in our political arena.

The gravity of Bashir Hadejiya’s confessions cannot be overstated. He has admitted to associations with sponsors of his treasonous activities, some of whom are said to reside in the very corridors of political power. It is particularly disconcerting to learn that links extend to a former Director of the Department of State Security Service (DSS). These connections are indicative of a broader systemic failure within our political and security institutions, which have allowed criminal enterprises to infiltrate our governance structures.

The very individuals sworn to safeguard our nation’s security seem to be complicit, if not outrightly supportive, of these criminal factions. Furthermore, the disturbing connection between Bashir Hadejiya’s operations and stolen wealth from the Libyan Central Bank—specifically, bars of gold—reveals the complex and entrenched relationships between our national security, global economics, and the threats posed by international crime syndicates.

These actions affect not just Nigeria, but our neighbors and the broader international community. We must recognize that transnational crime does not occur in isolation; it is part of a larger network of destabilization efforts that threaten peace and prosperity. We must identify and dismantle not just the visible structures of criminal enterprise but also the invisible networks of political and economic complicity that allow these crimes to flourish.

The involvement of individuals purportedly linked to high-ranking officials and former heads of security services is an indictment of our institutions. It reeks of corruption

By Moses Habu

One of the leaders of the Arewa Youth who was among leaders of the end bad governance protests in Nigeria, Ambassador Abdul Danbature has disclosed how he was offered the sum of $50,000 to blackmail the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle which he turned down.

Danbature who is the Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) said, the offer which is coming from outside the country was extended to him through one of their agents in Nigeria.

According to him, the offer is for him to engage in a two months two weeks of constant attack through press conferences, issuance of press releases on the person and personality of Bello Matawalle.

“They offered me $50,000 to blackmail the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle, and to tarnish his image and cordial working relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the good people of Zamfara State.”

“Infact, the Terrorists kingpin Bello Turji who came out recently in a viral video where he made unsubstantiated allegations against the Minister was offered same amount to carry out such hatchet job” he further disclosed.

Ambassador Danbature said, the Youths which he represents are committed to good governance and leadership and will not in any form allow themselves to be given to any form of gratification for image slandering and blackmail of any government personality, individual or organization.

He said, he is forced to speak out because there are individuals who are committed to tarnishing images of personalities for political interests, while calling on Youths to beware of such individuals and avoid their antics and manipulations.

“For me, the Minister of State for defence Bello Matawalle is a good man who gave his best as Governor of Zamfara State and currently contributing in no small measure to stabilizing the security situation in the country.”

“I therefore wish to use this medium to call on all and sundry that I cannot, neither can our group be used to malign any body in an attempt to settle political scores” he stressed.

By Comrade Martins

Extreme weather and climate change have worsened Africa’s food insecurity, especially in Nigeria, where oil dependency and other socio-economic factors further strain the food ecosystem. Transforming the agricultural sector is crucial to meeting these challenges, and the cassava value chain offers a viable solution for combating hunger, improving livelihoods, and sustaining the rural economy.

Cassava, a perennial woody shrub with an edible root, was first cultivated in South America and introduced to Nigeria in the sixteenth century. It is a major staple food for millions across the globe and was introduced to Nigeria in the sixteenth century. With Nigeria producing about 63 million tonnes in 2022 (FAO 2022), there’s still a 24 million tonnes deficit in meeting domestic demand. Issues like low farm yields, inadequate land management, poor storage and transportation, pests, diseases, and limited access to improved varieties hinder cassava production.

Despite government efforts over the years, the supply hasn’t kept pace with the growing demand.

To address these challenges, Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited, the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and CEMUOA Limited have been collaborating since 2020 on the Building an Economically Sustainable and Integrated Cassava Seed System (BASICS II) project. As part of the program activities, Demand Creation Trials (DCT) are set up in Akwa Ibom State to increase farmers’ and processors’ awareness of adopting high-quality cassava varieties to improve production, increase food security, and promote sustainability in Nigeria.

On 17 July 2024, this partnership hosted a Farmers’ Field Day event at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Mr. Emmanuel Ameh, Programme Analyst at Sahel Consulting, highlighted the importance of showcasing high-quality cassava varieties to stakeholders and the use of DCT as an evidence-based tool for making informed decisions on the sustainability of cassava varieties.

A critical success factor for this initiative is the active engagement and investment from private sector partners. Mrs. Caroline Udom, Executive Director of CEMUOA Limited, emphasized the success of this collaboration in providing smallholder farmers with improved cassava seedlings.

‘It has been a satisfying experience working with Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited. With better cassava varieties and superior seeds, CEMUOA Limited can easily achieve more. With what we’ve accomplished here, we’ll go back and multiply the seeds to ensure that our farmers have unimpeded access to high-quality and improved seeds over the course of the next five to six farming seasons.’’ Mrs. Caroline Udom, Executive Director of CEMUOA Limited.

Mr. Uche ThankGod Oche, Senior Researcher Supervisor of the Cassava Breeding Unit at IITA, praised the DCT as a crucial tool for integrating cassava breeding into Nigeria’s seed system activities. He emphasized the importance of strategic innovation and collaboration for food sustainability in Nigeria.

“How to feed Nigeria’s constantly expanding population is one of the country’s most urgent issues. It is therefore revolutionary to adopt the DCT approach in the production and processing of cassava.

Collaboration with regional processors, such as CEMUOA Limited in Uyo, was essential to proving the effectiveness of the many cassava varieties used in the Basic II (DCT) initiative”.

Mrs. Theresa Akpan, President of Women Link Agro International Commission, shared how the DCT project has transformed cassava farming for women in Uyo. She reported that since the group’s founding in 2018, they have never seen such success. The introduction of high-yield varieties like Ayaya and Baba 70 has increased cassava yield and allowed women farmers to better support their families and communities.

The Demand Creation Trails are raising awareness and adoption of high-quality cassava varieties, serving as a vital decision tool for breeders, seed producers, and farmers. Sahel Consulting is dedicated to transforming Nigeria’s agriculture and nutrition landscape, ensuring food security and sustainable development for all.

Join us in this mission and help build a resilient agricultural sector in Nigeria. Reach out to learn more about our initiatives!

By Chioma Ambrose

As the ongoing nationwide protests enters the fourth day, prominent stakeholders within the government and private sectors in the four walls of Nigeria who are patriotic and optimistic about the progress of this country political and socio-economic structures have continued to plea with the youths to shelves their swords.

One among these dignified epitomes is a Real Estate Serial Entrepreneur with decades of successful experiences, Chief Executive Officer of MYK Limited Alhaji Abubakar Mayaki who is calling on the youths to renounces their fate towards the protest.

Speaking to Journalists on Sunday, Alhaji Mayaki said “As a real estate entrepreneur, I understand the frustrations and challenges faced by Nigeria’s youth. However, I strongly advise against resorting to nationwide protests, which can lead to destruction of property, loss of lives, and economic instability.

“Instead, I encourage the youths to channel their energy into constructive dialogue with the Federal government to provide entrepreneurship, and community development platforms for direct benefits.

” Though, I understand that there is economic challenges causing skyrocketed inflation, epileptic electric supply, hunger and poverty but Let’s work together to build a better Nigeria through innovative solutions, job creation, and collaborative governance.

“Remember, our collective future is brighter when we build, not destroy. Let’s focus on creating opportunities, promoting peace, and driving progress for all Nigerians.”

The Innovator tasked on all tiers of government to listen to the concerns and demands of the protesting youths, and engage in open and honest dialogue to understand their perspectives.

According to him the government should address unemployment and economic empowerment by implementing policies and programs to create jobs, promote entrepreneurship, and support small businesses to address economic challenges.

He said ” improve education and skills development to enhance access to quality education, vocational training, and skills development programs to equip youths for the future.

“Ensure good governance and accountability by demonstrating transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs, and tackle corruption and mismanagement.

“Provide mental health support by offering access to mental health services and support to address the emotional and psychological well-being of youths.

Alhaji Mayaki tasked the government to foster inclusivity and diversity to promote inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of ethnicity, religion or socio-economic background.

He said ” Address security concerns to ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly youths, and address issues like police brutality and extortion.

Meanwhile, the Serial Entrepreneur commended the Nigerian Police Force and other security personnel for their professionalism and restraint during the the ongoing protests.

“Your commitment to maintaining peace and order while respecting the rights of citizens to express themselves is truly commendable. Your actions demonstrate a clear understanding of the importance of protecting human rights and upholding the principles of democracy. By not resorting to harmful tactics, you have shown that it is possible to maintain security without compromising the safety and well-being of citizens.

“We recognize that your role is crucial in ensuring the stability and security of our nation, and we appreciate your dedication to serving and protecting the people of Nigeria as your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we encourage you to continue upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”