Author Archives: News All Around

Feyi Abdulkareem

Concerned Plant Quarantine professionals has appealed to the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency disbands Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (N.A.Q.S) an agency under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.

This is contained in a Communique signed by the Chairman of the professionals, Alhaji Jaiyeola Olaniran and Secretary, Sallah Ibrahim and made available to Newsmen on Wednesday.

The communique reads ” The plant Quarantine Service is made up of inspectors who are trained Agronomists and plant pathologists who are specifically trained and certified to identify pests and diseases of plants and plants products of exotic origin on international trade.

“Therefore, they are professionally incompatible with veterinary Doctors who deals with Animals diseases and fisheries who look after fishes.

” The bulk of operational activities in the organization are being carried out by the plant Quarantine inspectors issuing import permit to prospective plants importers and phytosanitary certificate to plant products exporters to meet standard on international trade.

According to the communique all the physical structures that are currently been used for operations , trainings and research belongs to the plant Quarantine Service component of the agency adding that other harmonizing professionals units had none.

” With the reverse salary structure in the agency the veterinary doctors are collecting salaries that are threefolds to the other professionals colleagues in the agency. This is because they enter the service on GL12 while others enter with GL8 as they are claiming superiority thereby placing themselves in all the stations nationwide despite not having the technical know-how at the agency.

The statement revealed that the lumping together of veterinary Doctors, Animal Husbandry, fisheries with plant Quarantine Service units were responsible for the rejection of 102 corps by the European Union countries from Nigeria since 2008 till date because these other professionals colleagues impersonate as plant Quarantine inspectors at thr point of exits amd thereby certified these corps to pass clearance checks without specified protocols of clean health condition on international trade which is done mostly for pecuniary reasons.

” All the infrastructures at the post-entry unit of the plants quarantine services which serves as the engine room where laboratory findings are carried out on plants and plants products for exports and imports are completely deserted and non-existent.

The professionals requested that it’s out of place for veterinary Doctors to be presiding over plants activities as it’s presently constituted in NAQS as the staff members who are Agronomists and pathologists are seriously finding it uncomfortable to work with them.

It stressed that corps are more on the traffic on the international trade and plant Quarantine inspectors are custodians of International standards with specific rules and regulations that guides these trade .

” The agency is relatively four years therefore it’s operating on wastages and continuously increasing burden on cost of governance for the present administration. We pead in the overall national interest for the disbandment of NAQS.

It further added ” we request that square peg should be in square holes as all the component professionals that are currently constituted in the agency should be reassigned to their parents departments in the Agriculture ministry for optimum functioning.

” The plants quarantine services does not need an agency to operate but a fullfleged department in the ministry.”

Several attempts to get the reactions of the agency in question to respond proved abortive at the time of filing this report.

In a move set to revolutionize the lives of women in Kaduna State, the Jenifer Etuh Foundation (JEF) has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering over 1010 women in Jema’a and Kaura local government areas. The Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) project, supported by the Baya Foundation, is set to transform the lives of women and girls in the region.

The orientation program, held at the Throne Room Trust Ministries Auditorium in Kafanchan, was a resounding success, with women and girls from across the region in attendance. Comrade Mobolaji Adesonya, Project Coordinator for the Kaduna WEE Project, emphasized the importance of empowering women, saying “Women have a great impact and role to play in the household setting. If a woman is being trained, the aims and objectives of the program will be achieved.”

The program is designed to increase the economic growth of households headed by women, with a focus on skills acquisition, sack farming, and financial management. Beneficiaries will also have the opportunity to bring a household member to benefit from the training, making a total of two beneficiaries per household.

The Jenifer Etuh Foundation is leading the charge in women’s empowerment, with a scalable entrepreneurial approach aimed at increasing the income and agency of low-income women in Sub-Saharan Africa. The project is set to create a sustainable ecosystem of strong social enterprises that support women farmers and generate income for women and women cooperatives.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of the women’s empowerment revolution in Kaduna State! Join the Jenifer Etuh Foundation in their mission to transform the lives of women and girls in the region.

The Arewa Youth Assembly For Good Leadership (AYAGL) and Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) have condemned the recent sponsored protests against the Minister of State, Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle. In a statement, the groups expressed their support for Matawalle, describing him as a “selfless and exemplary leader” who is committed to the progress and development of Northern Nigeria.

The groups noted that the sponsors of the protests are motivated by jealousy and a desire to bring Matawalle down politically, but they vowed to resist any attempts to malign or assassinate his character. They praised Matawalle’s performance as Minister, citing the recent promotion exercise in the Nigerian Navy as an example of his fairness and patriotism.

The groups also passed a vote of confidence on Matawalle, describing him as a “good Ambassador of Late Sardauna” and a symbol of good governance and purposeful leadership. They warned against allowing themselves to be used against Matawalle, who they described as a dedicated public servant committed to the progress and development of Zamfara State and Northern Nigeria.

The statement read in part: “We are 100% behind Dr. Bello Matawalle because he is doing a good job in the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We will lend him all the support he requires to succeed in the task assigned to him by Mr. President. Dr. Bello Matawalle represents the virtue of Late Sardauna and he must be encouraged to continue.”

The groups also urged Northern youth to support Matawalle, saying “No Youth of Northern Extraction should allow himself to be used against this selfless public servant. Matawalle’s love for progress and development of Zamfara State and Northern Nigeria has no bound, therefore, all hands must be on deck to support him and to encourage him.”

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has reaffirmed its trust in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), praising its dedication to conducting free, fair, and credible elections. This endorsement comes after presidential candidate Peter Obi’s recent comments acknowledging INEC’s integrity.

According to AYCF President General Yerima Shettima, INEC has consistently demonstrated its credibility and impartiality in conducting elections. The forum believes that strong institutions like INEC are vital to preserving Nigeria’s democratic fabric.

The AYCF commended INEC for its commitment to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and safeguarding citizens’ democratic rights. It emphasized that any attempts to undermine INEC’s credibility or question its impartiality would harm Nigeria’s democratic progress.

The forum also condemned judicial interference in electoral affairs, urging the judiciary to limit its role to adjudicating legal disputes and upholding the rule of law. Excessive judicial interference, the AYCF warned, threatens the foundations of democracy in Nigeria.

The AYCF called on stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, to support INEC’s independence in conducting credible elections. It also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and participate actively in the electoral process to safeguard democratic principles.

By praising INEC’s integrity and condemning judicial overreach, the AYCF aims to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria’s electoral system.

By Dattijo Sani Rano PhD

The grand conspiracy from Northern Nigeria against the reemergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term that was hinted at by the President’s loyal political allies in the region is gradually but surely coming into the open.
The recent open declaration by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) that the North would work against Tinubu in 2027 is a clear indication that there are powerful forces at work to undermine the President’s second term chances and set the stage for a carefully orchestrated plot against him.
This bold and unequivocal statement by the NEF has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as it reveals a clear intent to thwart Tinubu’s ambitions. The fact that such a group has openly declared its opposition to Tinubu’s bid speaks volumes about the deep-seated opposition and resistance he faces from outside and within his own political circles. It is further evidence that there are powerful forces at play who are determined to derail his political aspirations with a concerted effort to block his path to a second term.
The alignment of key players like the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces against him further highlights the depth of this conspiracy. The connivance of leaders from the North and the self-serving greed of those within the Presidential Villa are enabling this plot to take root and thrive.
The emergence of key figures such as Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda and Prof Khalifa Dikwa, who have openly criticized Tinubu’s administration and suggested Kashim Shettima as alternative candidate for the presidency, sheds light on the depth of the conspiracy. These individuals, along with the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces, are actively working to undermine Tinubu’s drive and pave the way for their own agendas.
In the midst of this sinister plot, Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, along with other key figures such as Prof Khalifa Dikwa, have expressed their support for the North East Forum’s position regarding the potential replacement of President Tinubu. Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, the arrowhead for the Northwestern plank of the plan, has even gone so far as to suggest Vice President Kashim Shettima as a likely preferred candidate.
This stance was further solidified by Prof Khalifa Dikwa, the Dean of Borno Elders Forum, who has raised false concerns about the perceived weaknesses and lopsided nature of President Tinubu’s appointments. These individuals seem to be united in their belief that a change in leadership is necessary.
The insidious nature of this conspiracy is further exemplified by the awarding of a 147 billion naira contract to a Katsina opposition party strongman by a serving minister in the administration. This blatant display of betrayal and manipulation underscores the extent to which those within President Tinubu’s inner circle are willing to go to advance their own interests at the expense of the nation.
It is clear that President Tinubu is facing a formidable challenge from within his own ranks. The power struggle and backstabbing taking place behind the scenes threaten to derail his administration and undermine his legacy.
He must take immediate action to counteract the machinations of those seeking to undermine his aspiration. He must surround himself and listen to loyal and competent friends like the former Kano State governor Abdullahi Ganduje who have lots of useful insight to share.
It is time for Tinubu to identify and remove the Judases within his camp, and forge ahead with a team of individuals that is dedicated to upholding the values of justice and honest enterprise.
It is imperative that President Tinubu takes swift and decisive action to counteract these malicious maneuvers. The recent award of a 140 billion naira contract to an opposition member by a serving minister is a glaring example of the subversion taking place within his own administration.
The warning signals from high-ranking northern appointees in the Tinubu administration must therefore not be ignored. The President must heed the advice of his remaining two vigorous supporters and allies before it is too late. The time for complacency is over; President Tinubu must act decisively to protect his presidency and ensure the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.
Tinubu should be aware of the challenges he is facing from an emerging opposition that aims to weaken his support base in the northern region of the country. Already, several of his loyal friends and partners, such as Nasir Elrufai, Yahaya Bello, and Aminu Bello Masari, have been marginalized through the opposition’s manipulative tactics.
The only two allies left standing, Ganduje and Matawalle, are also under constant attack and defamation, with the ultimate goal of eroding Tinubu’s influence in the north. This concerted effort to dismantle Tinubu’s support base is a clear indication of the threat posed by this emerging opposition.
Tinubu must take note of these developments and take necessary steps to safeguard his political interests in the northern region. It is imperative that he strengthens his alliances, engages in strategic planning, and remains vigilant against any attempts to undermine his position.
It is time to rise to the occasion, take control of the narrative, and assert his authority over those seeking to undermine him. The success of his administration and the future of the nation depend on his ability to navigate these treacherous waters and emerge victorious against the forces seeking to derail his leadership and future chances.
Only by remaining vigilant and steadfast in the face of adversity can he secure his place in history as a leader who stood firm against the forces of division and discord.
(Rano, a political analyst, writes from Kano and can be reached at: DrRanoMD@gmail.com)

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has called for the removal of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Emmanuel Ogalla, due to allegations of supporting oil thieves and sabotaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to combat oil theft. The YYC has passed a vote of no confidence in Ogalla and is demanding a thorough investigation into his activities.

The allegations against Ogalla include large-scale corruption, procurement fraud, and contract splitting, which were levelled against him in a petition by a group of concerned Nigerians in January. The YYC is disturbed by the allegations and claims that Ogalla’s actions are undermining the President’s efforts to fight oil theft.

The YYC specifically mentioned the release of a ship arrested for oil theft and the alleged dilution of exhibit samples as examples of Ogalla’s sabotage. The President has reportedly ordered the re-arrest of the ship and a full investigation into the matter. The YYC is urging the President to remove any obstacles to his efforts to combat oil theft and sanitise the oil sector.

The petition by the group of concerned Nigerians expressed distress at the allegations against Ogalla, given the significant revenue losses Nigeria is experiencing due to crude oil theft. They called for action to be taken against Ogalla, who is responsible for safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways against oil theft and other criminal activities.

… He has right to do legitimate business any where

Group under aegis of Forum For Good Governance (FGGN), has come out strongly to defend  the President’s Son,Mr.  Seyi Tinubu after former Vice President,Alhaji Atiku Abubakar faulted the award of contract to a company he serves as a board member.

The former Vice President had accused the federal government of awarding construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway to Hitech Construction Company Ltd.

He did allege that Seyi is a director on the board of CDK Integrated Industries, a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group, which is a parent company of Hitech.

However ,In a press Statement jointly signed by the National Coordinator and Secretary;Comrade Abraham Douglas and Comrade Bala Galadima Ikara, the group said the fact that Seyi’s father is the President should not deny him access to pursue legitimate business interests within and outside the country.

While stating that the gigantic projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway would no doubt boost the economy; engender growth and development, it noted, “Seyi Tinubu an adult,who has a right to do business in as much as ,it’s within the limits of the law.”

The Statement further reads: “From the information we gathered, Seyi joined the Board of Directors of CDK in 2018 as an investor, with a good record of performance. So ,why deny such investor with capacity right to business patronage because, his father is the president.

“Unfortunately for Atiku who raised the issue, the Chairman of CDK and the highest shareholder of the company is  General T.Y. Danjuma (retd.) and not Seyi Tinubu, who has been involved in business several years,before the father became President.

“The big question we are asking Atiku is , ” How has Seyi as an investor on  the board of  CDK, conflicts with Hitech Construction Company’s work on Lagos-Calabar Coastal superhighway.

“He who must come to equity must come with clean hands. If Atiku raised an issue of conflict of interest,what we do say of him during his days as the vice-president, established Intels Nigeria with an Italian entrepreneur while serving in the Nigeria Customs Service .

“When he was Vice President of Nigeria between 1999-2007, he maintained his business links with Intels that won major port concession deals in Nigeria.”

In a dramatic move, the Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has passed a vote of no confidence in the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, citing allegations of economic sabotage and criminal activities within the Nigerian Navy.

The NDYC, which represents the youth of the Niger Delta region, condemned the Navy’s involvement in crude oil theft, diversion, and providing security escorts for oil thieves, saying it undermines the efforts of the President Bola Tinubu administration to stabilize the economy.

The group demanded a thorough investigation into the allegations, including a recent incident involving MT PRESTIGIOUS and MT MONTAGU, and called for those found culpable to be brought to justice.

With Nigeria grappling with economic challenges, the NDYC emphasized that such activities only exacerbate the suffering of the Nigerian people. They urged swift and decisive action to rectify the situation and promote lawful and sustainable maritime activities for the benefit of all Nigerians.

This development is likely to put pressure on the Nigerian government to take action against the alleged criminal activities within the Navy and ensure accountability among its leadership, potentially leading to reforms and changes in the top brass.

Abdullahi Usman Kuriga

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, has come haprd on those who staged a protest against the Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle.

A group of people were spotted at the Abuja office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Friday, demanding re-opening of investigation against the former Zamfara governor.

Reacting to the development, the National President of the Ohanaeze Youths, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike said the protest was in a chain of actions lined up to discredit the minister for standing with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Okwu recalled that he had earlier raised the alarm over the plot by some Northerners opposed to Tinubu’s leadership to slam Matawalle’s image, having seen him as the rallying point for Mr President in the North.

He said, “It is, therefore, not a surprise that early Friday morning, the same people recruited people from the outskirts of Abuja and moved them to the city centre to protest against the minister. 

“There was no doubt that most of the said protesters were ignorant of their mission to the EFCC office; they merely came to deliver on the job they were assembled to do.

“We therefore, once more retrait our advice to His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu not to be deceived by the same people who have vowed to truncate his second term in 2027.

“We urge Mr President to be wary of these desperadoes who are hellbent on destroying any good person around his government. They should not be given any space at all to thrive in their evil machinations.” 

“Once more, we stand solidly behind the Defence Minister and urge him to continue the good work he is doing, as could be seen in the improved security across the country,” Okwu stated.

He vowed that a time would soon come when “we will expose all those behind this desperate attempt to discredit the current government.”

The Kaduna Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations has described the Minister of Information, Alh. Mohammed Idris, as an exceptional and iconic professional whose transparent information management has impacted on public credibility and overall goodwill for the current administration.

In a statement issued by the Chapter Chairman, Haroun Malami in honour of the Minister’s birthday, it acknowledged that the Minister has demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt that, character, competence and credibility are the hallmarks of Public Relations practice, through his exceptional handling of government communication since he assumed office.

The Chapter described the Minister as an innovator with purposeful shift from the old norm, from his days as Kaduna state Chapter Chairman. It said Alh. Idris’ patriotism and service to nationhood in various capacities with laudable footprints and remarkable accomplishments is a testimony that, any endeavour identified with Public Relations makes a resounding difference in the outcomes.

“As you mark another milestone adding another year, it is our prayer that, Almighty Allah will strengthen you with good health and wisdom in your patriotic service to the nation. As a worthy ambassador of the Institute and an icon of the Chapter, we have no doubt that, Nigeria will be greater with your avowed commitment reenact and elevate public trust in governance and deepen citizens’ faith in our country”, the statement read, in part.