Arewa Times

By Benjamin Yusuf

The North-East Youth Revival Movement (NEYM) has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over a recent deadly attack by Boko Haram terrorists on a military base in Marte, Borno State, which claimed the lives of five Nigerian soldiers.

In a strongly worded statement issued by its Chairman, Abbarious Lawal, the group said the assault underscores the persistent failures of Nigeria’s defense leadership and called for the immediate resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar.

“In light of this devastating event, we hereby call for the immediate resignation of Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar,” Lawal said. “This demand reflects a growing frustration among the citizens of Nigeria regarding the government’s failure to provide adequate security and effectively combat the escalating threat posed by insurgents.”

The Marte attack, which occurred on Monday, involved a coordinated assault by insurgents on a forward operating base. The terrorists reportedly overpowered the stationed troops, looted weapons, and made away with military vehicles. According to NEYM, the aftermath was catastrophic, with many soldiers demoralized and fleeing their posts in fear, retreating to nearby villages.

“This alarming behavior illustrates a critical crisis of confidence within our military ranks,” the group stated. “The harrowing sight of a commanding officer’s vehicle, along with essential military resources, falling into the hands of insurgents further compromises our operational capacity and undermines morale.”

NEYM also highlighted the broader impact of the attack, noting the widespread fear among civilians. Thousands have reportedly fled their homes in Marte and surrounding communities, seeking refuge in safer towns like Dikwa, Lukumani, and Mafa. The group stressed that the attack has compounded an already dire humanitarian crisis, with displaced persons crowding into under-resourced IDP camps.

Citing recent data from SBM Intelligence, NEYM pointed out that more than 2,000 people have been killed in violent incidents across Nigeria in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Borno State tops the casualty list, with the victims including 892 civilians, 462 bandits, and 234 Boko Haram insurgents.

“Our call for the resignation or retirement of Minister Badaru Abubakar by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is emblematic of a broader demand for accountability within our government,” Lawal emphasized. “The perception of incompetence in handling the escalating insecurity in the region is not unfounded.”

NEYM criticized the federal government’s handling of the Boko Haram insurgency, accusing it of lacking strategic foresight, failing to allocate adequate resources, and ignoring community-based solutions.

The group argued that the abandonment of military posts is not merely a sign of weakness but a reflection of systemic failure within the armed forces and defense administration.

“Our soldiers are often thrust into perilous situations without adequate training, equipment, or support,” the group said. “It is essential to address the root causes of this crisis—such as inadequate funding, lack of morale, and poor strategic planning.”

NEYM concluded by reaffirming its call for Defence Minister Badaru’s removal, insisting that meaningful reform, accountability, and a renewed commitment to national security are necessary to break the cycle of violence.

“Only through concerted efforts to address these pressing issues can we hope to overcome the challenges posed by insurgency and restore peace and stability to the North-East and beyond,” the statement stressed.

By Mike Odeh James

A coalition of civil society organizations under the aegis of the North-West Alliance for Security (NWAS) has called for the immediate dismissal of Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, citing his alleged failure to curb the escalating wave of insecurity and banditry ravaging the North-West region.

In a bold and strongly-worded statement signed by its chairman, Musa Zakaria, and released in Kaduna on Monday, the group accused Minister Badaru of presiding over a deteriorating security architecture that has allowed violent armed groups to thrive unchecked across several states in the zone.

“The North-West has tragically become synonymous with lawlessness, as criminal gangs known as ‘bandits’ wreak havoc on our communities,” Zakaria stated. “The situation has deteriorated to such an extent that, as highlighted by military officials, these bandits have formed dangerous alliances with violent extremist organizations, thereby blurring the lines between banditry and terrorism.”

According to NWAS, what initially began as localized criminal activity has now morphed into a complex insurgency fueled by ideological extremism, environmental degradation, and socio-economic collapse. The group cited intelligence and media reports that suggest jihadist factions have begun embedding themselves within various bandit networks, thereby expanding the threat to national security.

“The statistics are staggering,” the statement continued

By Markus Bonaventure

In Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, a powerful story of compassion and justice is unfolding—one that is transforming the life of a widow who, until recently, lived in a fragile shelter made of nylon sheets and sticks.

Thanks to the collaboration between the Akwa Ibom State Government and the Centre for Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV), the widow is now on the verge of moving into a safe, dignified two-bedroom home—a far cry from the vulnerable conditions she once endured.

The housing intervention forms part of CERSDOV’s broader initiative to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and promote Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) through hands-on community engagement. The widow’s story surfaced during a four-day sensitization and advocacy workshop organized by CERSDOV, with support from the Norwegian Government through the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Nigeria.

“When we first saw her living conditions, it was heartbreaking,” recalled Emem Udo, a program officer with CERSDOV. “No human being deserves to live like that. This project is not just about shelter—it’s about restoring her dignity and affirming her humanity.”

The house, now nearing completion, stands in stark contrast to the harsh and makeshift structure the widow previously called home. For years, she endured life in the margins—exposed to the elements, lacking basic privacy, and isolated from meaningful community support. Her experience reflects the everyday struggles of countless vulnerable women living in underserved rural communities.

During a recent community visit to Ikot Akpan Okure, where the building is located, the project was unveiled before a crowd of stakeholders including traditional rulers, civil society representatives, and community leaders. The visit served both as a moment of celebration and a rallying call to action.

“This is more than a house—it’s a symbol of justice and solidarity,” said Prof. Hauwa’u Evelyn Yusuf, Executive Director of CERSDOV. “I commend the Akwa Ibom State Government for its role in making this possible. Every human being, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to live with dignity.”

The event reinforced a vital message: advocacy for women’s rights must go beyond speeches and workshops. It must translate into real-world solutions that uplift and empower the most marginalized members of society.

The project also aims to inspire other communities to adopt similar grassroots strategies. By prioritizing the needs of vulnerable women and addressing the root causes of gender-based injustice, CERSDOV hopes to create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond a single household.

“For too long, women like her have remained invisible,” said Pastor Idongesit Elijah, one of the workshop participants. “Today, she is seen, supported, and embraced by her community. That’s the beginning of meaningful change.”

As finishing touches are made to the new home, the atmosphere around the project site is one of renewed hope and quiet celebration. What began as an act of emergency relief has become a powerful testament to what is possible when compassion, policy, and grassroots action come together.

In a time when many women continue to suffer in silence, this single act of kindness has given voice, shelter, and dignity to one of them—and in doing so, has sent a resounding message of what justice in action truly looks like.

Monday Luther

The Coalition of Arewa Civil Society Organizations has issued a stern seven-day ultimatum to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, demanding immediate action to address worsening insecurity, poor governance, and alleged diversion of state resources. The group accused the governor of prioritizing political vendettas over development, leaving the state in a “downward spiral of violence and neglect.” 

At a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday, coalition convener Aminu Abbas Arabi lambasted Governor Lawal for “chasing shadows” instead of delivering democratic dividends to Zamfara’s citizens. Arabi cited the governor’s “obsession” with probing his predecessor, Bello Matawalle, and writing petitions against political opponents as evidence of misplaced priorities. 

“Since assuming office, Governor Lawal has abandoned his manifesto to focus on imaginary probes and blame games. Zamfara’s allocations have doubled post-subsidy removal, yet there’s nothing to show for it. If he feels inadequate, he should resign,” Arabi declared. 

**Insecurity Reaches Crisis Levels** 
The coalition highlighted Zamfara’s descent into chaos under Lawal’s watch, describing the state as an “open abattoir” where terrorists now impose taxes on communities. Arabi referenced the recent killing of an imam and his son in Gusau as emblematic of the governor’s failure to protect citizens. 

“As chief security officer, Lawal has allowed bandits to operate freely. Communities are sacked daily, yet he blames others for his incompetence. Even the military is frustrated by his lack of cooperation,” Arabi stated, contrasting Zamfara’s crisis with proactive measures by governors in Katsina, Kaduna, and Sokoto. 

**Economic Stagnation and Misplaced Priorities** 
The coalition criticized Lawal for neglecting Zamfara’s economy, noting that no new investors have entered the state due to insecurity and hostile policies. Arabi accused the governor of diverting resources to fund a future reelection bid rather than improving infrastructure or healthcare. 

“Zamfara is rich in resources, yet Lawal prefers to lament about past loans instead of boosting internally generated revenue. States like Kaduna and Lagos have shown it’s possible—why not Zamfara?” he questioned. 

**Sokoto Governor Cited as Model** 
Arabi urged Lawal to emulate Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who he said inherited security challenges but focused on progress rather than attacking predecessors. “Leadership requires maturity. Sokoto’s governor collaborates with stakeholders; Zamfara’s governor thrives on drama,” he added. 

**Ultimatum and Threat of Mass Protests** 
The coalition warned that failure to act within seven days would trigger nationwide protests, with its 73 million members occupying key government facilities in Zamfara. “We will no longer tolerate excuses. Lawal must resign or govern,” Arabi said. 

.

By Grace Ejeh

The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has cleared a misconception surrounding recent attacks on Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, through a sponsored fake protest calling on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate him.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, the Chairman of the forum, Alhaji Aliyu Muhammad Sani, described the protest as a shameless and dishonest act orchestrated by a faceless and non-existent group claiming to be the All Progressives Congress Young Leaders Alliance (APC-YLA). The group had staged a protest demanding the probe of Matawalle.

“This is nothing but another episode in the series of sponsored, devilish, and character-damaging campaigns by certain unpatriotic, dishonest enemies of democracy, threatened by the gigantic successes achieved by the Minister. The opposition has allegedly set aside a sum of 2 billion naira for such purposes,” Sani alleged.

He continued, “Their campaigns are nowhere close to the truth but are full of jargon, falsehoods, and malicious intent. This is not their first attempt—they’ve used different groups and individuals in the past, all of whom failed. Yet, they persist.”

Sani said the CNF was compelled to expose the perpetrators to Nigerians and reveal their identities as “criminals and frauds,” insisting that APC-YLA is a fictitious group created solely for a smear campaign against Matawalle.

“Its address is fake—it’s just a market area with no specific location. The protest was absurd; only a few participants were above 18, the rest were minors hired for peanuts to carry placards and chant slogans they didn’t understand,” he claimed.

CNF also disclosed that it is petitioning the APC and relevant security agencies, urging an investigation into the impostors. “Some of them are likely not even APC members,” he added. “We demand a full list and membership details of their organization.”

The group urged the APC not to allow itself to be used for witch hunts or personal vendettas, and expressed hope that security agencies would act decisively to curb such acts.

“We maintain that this madness must stop, sanity must return, and the normal status quo must be followed,” CNF emphasized.

ENDS

By Omomna Adimi

The Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has retracted allegations made against Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defense and former Governor of Zamfara State. CNF Chairman Alhaji Aliyu Mohammed admitted that the group was misled by opposition propaganda.

“We were misled by the information presented to us, and the content of the press text was blown out of proportion,” Mohammed said at a press briefing in Kaduna. “It was a political witch hunt, deliberately orchestrated and propagated by the opposition who are envious of the Minister’s achievements.”

Matawalle’s Achievements

Mohammed highlighted Matawalle’s accomplishments as Governor of Zamfara State, including:

• Infrastructure development: new airport project, road construction, and upgrades to the state’s water supply
• Healthcare: construction of primary health centers across all 147 wards, procurement of ambulances, and healthcare investments
• Education: settling examination fees for NECO and WAEC, investing in technology infrastructure
• Security: Matawalle’s current efforts as Minister of State for Defense towards actualizing the Renewed Hope agenda

Allegations of Misinformation Campaign

Mohammed alleged that the current Zamfara State Government has released over two billion naira to finance a misinformation campaign against Matawalle. “We call on the general public to disregard such toxic news and any future press conferences sponsored to malign the Minister,” he said.

Support for the Federal Government

Mohammed concluded by urging Nigerians to support the federal government’s efforts. “Matawalle to the best of our knowledge did well as Governor and is presently doing extremely well in the security sector… We deeply acknowledge and commend the efforts of this administration in restructuring and ultimately building a new Nigeria.”

By Markus Maaji

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has raised alarm over what it describes as a politically motivated smear campaign allegedly being orchestrated by the Zamfara State Government against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the forum accused the Zamfara State Government of releasing approximately two billion naira to fund a series of press conferences and public statements by sponsored groups, aimed at tarnishing the image of the Defence Minister and questioning his appointment by President Tinubu.

Comrade Paul, speaking on behalf of the NSCF—a group known for promoting peace and national unity—alleged that the campaign is part of a broader political ploy to undermine Matawalle’s credibility and weaken his influence within the state and the federal government.

“The orchestrated campaigns of calumny, targeted specifically at discrediting Mallam Matawalle, are intended not only to malign his person but also to cast aspersions on the judgment of President Tinubu for appointing him,” Paul said.

According to the NSCF, the smear campaign includes plans by these groups to pressure the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into reopening investigations into Matawalle’s time as governor of Zamfara State—allegations the group claims are politically motivated and lacking in credible evidence.

“These are not genuine calls for accountability,” Paul stated. “They are acts of political desperation by those threatened by the Defence Minister’s growing national profile and his commitment to restoring security in the north.”

The forum noted that since assuming office as Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle has shown commitment to tackling insecurity in Nigeria, leveraging his experience as a former governor of a state deeply impacted by banditry and insurgency.

“Matawalle’s transition to the federal level was seen as strategic and timely by many Nigerians,” the NSCF stated. “His first

The Kaduna Youths for Peace and Development (KYPD) group has denied reports of the arrest of Nura Usman, a self acclaimed youth activist and advocate for good governance, by the Kaduna government.

According to the group ,Usman was invited by the police to explain a malicious Facebook post, but he evaded arrest and switched off his phone to create a false narrative.

Sahara Reporters claimed Usman was abducted and tortured by security operatives over his Facebook posts criticizing government policies.

But in a reaction, KYPD denies Usman’s arrest and torture, calling the report false and a cheap blackmail.The group claimed Usman posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state.

In a Statement jointly signed by the Chairman,Comrade Musa Lere and Secretary,Comrade Joseph Maigari the group which expressed sadness over
the Sahara Reporters’ story on Kaduna Government Critic, Nura Usman Abducted, Tortured Over Facebook Post As Wife reported is nothing but false.

It stated further, “He was never arrested and still on the run.He is running away from the law. He posted a false and inciting statement capable of breaching public peace in the state. He couldn’t substantiate his claim. His invitation by the security operatives has nothing to do with Kaduna State Government as reported.”

Nura Usman had posted on Facebook handle:”Information reaching my desk just now has revealed that some aides of a governor from Kaduna State have met with some selected student leaders of the state-owned university.

“These aides have commissioned the student leaders to hold a press conference and publicly condemn the ongoing strike by lecturers, who are urging the state government to fulfill outstanding demands after multiple unmet promises.

“Sources indicate that the student leaders have received the sum of N20,000 from the aides in question to facilitate this press conference. We shall see”.

On those behind Nura Usman inciting post ,the group averred,” We see him as someone allegedly being sponsored by former Kaduna State Governor,Mal. Nasiru Elrufai against Governor Uba Sani.

However, the Sahara Reporters quoted , a petition dated May 2, 2025,where he stated that ” a law firm alleged that Mr. Usman was abducted on the night of April 30 by heavily armed operatives of Operation Fushin Kada, a joint security task force comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, DSS, Police, and other agencies.

“The law firm in the petition claimed the arrest was ordered by powerful officials within the Kaduna State Government, allegedly in retaliation for Facebook posts made by Mr. Usman on April 28 and 29 that criticized certain government policies.

“This is untrue and should be disregard by the public.”it stressed.

By Sandra Ikeredi

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has strongly condemned a recent protest led by Comrade Kabir Matazu, which called for the probe and prosecution of the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari.

The protest, staged on Tuesday under the banner of a group called Concerned Citizens Against Corruption, took place at the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. The group alleged non-payment of a $2 billion debt by Kyari’s administration.

In a statement issued Thursday, the National Coordinator of the YYC, Comrade Eric Oluwole, dismissed the protest as narrow, selfish, unjustifiable, and unpatriotic. He argued that rather than facing persecution, Kyari should be applauded for his significant achievements during his tenure.

“An objective look at the grievances of the protesters reveals that this so-called anti-corruption group is cloaking personal and selfish interests in the name of national concern,” the statement read. “Why was their focus solely on a single debt claim, while ignoring broader and more pressing issues affecting the oil and gas sector?”

The YYC questioned the timing and motive of the protest, suggesting it was targeted and possibly sponsored. It noted that the NNPCL, being a corporate institution, has the mechanisms to handle such claims, making a public protest unnecessary.

The Council went on to highlight key milestones achieved under Kyari’s leadership from July 8, 2019, to April 2, 2025. Among them were:

Launch of the Transparency, Accountability and Performance Excellence (TAPE) initiative to enhance operational efficiency.

Discovery of oil in Kolmani River-II Well and resolution of longstanding production disputes.

Achievement of a new production peak of 331,400 barrels per day in May 2020.

Reduction in oil production costs through renegotiated JV and PSC agreements.

Strategic investments and financing agreements totaling billions of dollars to boost output and sustainability.

Acquisition of new oil acreages and recovery of substantial debts owed to NNPCL.

Implementation of major infrastructure projects including the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline.

Expansion of Nigeria’s LNG capacity through the NLNG Train 7 project.

Support for uninterrupted fuel supply, operation “White” to curb smuggling, and enhanced transparency in fuel distribution.

According to the YYC, these accomplishments underscore Kyari’s transformative leadership and commitment to national progress. The council urged Nigerians to look beyond distractions and recognize individuals whose service has positively impacted the country.

“Kyari’s record speaks for itself. His efforts have laid a strong foundation for a more transparent and efficient oil sector. He deserves commendation, not condemnation,” the statement concluded.

By Rose Onazi

In a bold move to boost Nigeria’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has kicked off an intensive training program in Lagos State for nano, micro, small, and medium enterprises (nMSMEs). The initiative aims to equip entrepreneurs with essential skills in packaging and branding, positioning them to compete on the continental stage.

The training, which began earlier this week, is part of SMEDAN’s broader strategy to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian products in Africa’s newly integrated market of over 1.3 billion people. By addressing key weaknesses in product presentation, brand identity, and compliance with trade standards, SMEDAN seeks to empower local businesses to scale and export successfully.

Speaking on behalf of the Director General of SMEDAN, Mr. Tunde Oloyede highlighted the significance of the program. “We are not just training for local excellence — we are preparing Nigerian nMSMEs to become continental brands,” he said. “With the right packaging and branding strategies, our products can compete favorably across African markets and beyond.”

Hands-On Learning for Real-World Impact

The Lagos training sessions have been robust, featuring expert-led workshops, live product audits, case studies of successful African brands, and practical design labs. Topics covered include:

Designing packaging that meets AfCFTA export requirements

Developing culturally resonant and globally appealing brand identities

Leveraging e-commerce platforms with visual branding strategies

Exploring cost-effective, sustainable packaging solutions

Participants hail from various sectors such as agribusiness, cosmetics, food processing, and textiles. Many have lauded the program for its hands-on approach and relevance to current market challenges.

Nationwide Rollout Planned

Following the Lagos edition, SMEDAN has announced plans to extend the training to northern Nigeria in the coming weeks. This rollout underscores the agency’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and national capacity building.

The initiative is aligned with Nigeria’s broader trade facilitation policies under the AfCFTA and supports SMEDAN’s mission to stimulate, monitor, and coordinate the growth of the MSME sector.

About SMEDAN

Established to catalyze the development of Nigeria’s MSME sector, SMEDAN plays a vital role in promoting entrepreneurship through policy advocacy, capacity building, and enterprise support services. Its programs are designed to drive job creation, economic development, and poverty alleviation across the country.