Arewa Times

KEPA Partners Ecoblue to Rejuvenate Kaduna’s Environmental System

Maula Awulu

Kaduna

The Kaduna State Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA) has reaffirmed Ecoblue Waste Management as the sole body authorized to manage the evacuation and disposal of solid waste across Kaduna State.

This development comes as part of a sweeping reform initiative launched by KEPA’s new Acting General Manager, Yahaya Yakubu Victor, whose administration has breathed new life into the state’s environmental protection framework.

Since assuming office, Victor has prioritized a cleaner, greener, and more disciplined Kaduna, spearheading renewed enforcement of waste management laws, corporate compliance drives, and an overhaul of the waste evacuation system.

Reforming the Waste Management Landscape

Under the new administration, KEPA has made clear that only licensed waste handlers operating under Ecoblue Waste Management will be recognized by the state government.

This policy, officials say, will ensure proper monitoring, training, and safe disposal of solid waste in accordance with environmental best practices.

On Wednesday, 9 October 2025, KEPA’s mobile court embarked on an extensive tour of corporate organizations to enforce compliance with the new rules.

The exercise, which covered companies including Sapphire, Rittys, FCMB, Synlab, Mussafir Hotel, and United Surgical Ltd, resulted in multiple fines for violating KEPA’s waste management laws.

Court Orders and Compliance

In one of the cases, Rittys, located at No. 26 Maiduguri Road, Kaduna, was accused of using an unauthorized waste contractor.

After hearing from both sides, the court ruled that Rittys be allowed to continue operations since it had previously engaged a KEPA-licensed waste manager. However, the company was warned to liaise with Ecoblue immediately upon the expiration of its current contract to comply fully with the new directive.

Other violators were not as lucky. FCMB was fined ₦50,000, Synlab paid ₦80,000 for obstruction and non-compliance, Mussafir Hotel was sanctioned ₦500,000, and United Surgical Ltd received a combined fine of ₦550,000 for multiple offenses.

‘Only Ecoblue Is Authorized’ — KEPA Consultant

Speaking after the mobile court sitting, Mr. Uchenna Jumbo, Consultant to KEPA and Head of Ecoblue Waste Management, emphasized that Ecoblue remains the sole entity authorized by KEPA to manage solid waste across the state.

“Our goal is to make Kaduna clean and safe. Every waste management organization must register under Ecoblue,” Jumbo stated.

“We are introducing new techniques for proper solid waste evacuation. Our team will train all registered handlers, monitor their operations, and ensure waste is not dumped in unauthorized sites.”

He urged both residents and corporate organizations to verify with KEPA and Ecoblue before engaging any waste disposal firm.

“Under the leadership of General Manager Yahaya Yakubu Victor, Kaduna will experience a new environmental order — cleaner streets, safer neighborhoods, and a more eco-friendly urban environment,” he added.

KEPA’s Legal Team Commends Compliance

Barr. Steve Swam, KEPA’s lead prosecuting lawyer, described the enforcement drive as “a major success,” adding that most organizations visited had already begun complying with KEPA’s directives.

“Today’s exercise shows that awareness is growing. Many organizations have adjusted to KEPA’s requirements, and those who refused to comply were sanctioned,” Swam told reporters.

He credited the new KEPA management for restoring public confidence in the agency’s environmental protection mission.

A New Era of Environmental Responsibility

Environmental analysts have lauded the new KEPA leadership for bringing renewed energy and transparency to waste management in Kaduna.

Under Yahaya Yakubu Victor, the agency has moved from passive regulation to active enforcement — combining law, partnership, and innovation to protect Kaduna’s environment.

With Ecoblue Waste Management as the sole authorized handler, KEPA says it can now guarantee better monitoring, cleaner streets, and a long-term shift toward sustainable urban living.

“This is not just enforcement,” a senior KEPA officer remarked. “It’s environmental renewal — and Kaduna is leading the way.”

Hon. Suleiman Alkali: Behold the Man Who Has Come to Serve

By Ibrahim Hussaini Tinja

In an era when political promises often fade after the applause of victory, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali, the member representing Yola North Constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, stands out as a refreshing exception. Elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alkali has quietly built a reputation as a grassroots politician, a bridge-builder, and a trailblazer devoted to genuine service.

Since taking office in 2023, the lawmaker has demonstrated that politics can still be driven by purpose, passion, and proximity to the people. In Yola North, his name has become synonymous with accessibility, humility, and tangible impact—qualities that have endeared him to the masses and earned him respect even beyond party lines.

The People’s Politician

Hon. Suleiman Alkali’s political journey is rooted in community service. Long before he stepped into the Adamawa State House of Assembly, he was known across Yola North for his compassion and consistent engagement with his people. His background as an active mobilizer gave him a deep understanding of the pulse of his constituency—its struggles, its resilience, and its boundless potential.

For Alkali, leadership is not an entitlement; it is a trust bestowed by the people, to be honored through service. This philosophy has defined his approach to governance. Rather than remaining confined to the chambers of the Assembly, he has made the constituency office a living hub of activity—listening to complaints, mentoring youths, and responding to community needs.

Legislating with Purpose

Since his swearing-in, Alkali has hit the ground running. Within two years, his legislative record reflects focus and foresight. His interventions in education, youth empowerment, and infrastructure are not random gestures—they are interconnected elements of a vision to uplift Yola North’s urban and peri-urban communities.

In the area of education, Alkali has sponsored motions and projects aimed at improving school infrastructure, providing instructional materials, and supporting indigent students. Several schools have benefited from classroom renovations, distribution of learning aids, and bursaries to deserving students. His philosophy is simple: education is the ladder out of poverty, and every child deserves a chance to climb it.

Equally, his commitment to youth empowerment has been remarkable. Through skill acquisition programs, he has trained scores of young people in tailoring, ICT, welding, carpentry, and other vocational skills. Many beneficiaries have received starter packs to begin their own businesses—creating ripples of self-reliance across communities.

“Hon. Alkali doesn’t just talk about empowering youths; he gives us tools to build our future,” says Aisha Umar, one of the beneficiaries of his tailoring initiative. “Today, I run my own small shop, and I’m training two apprentices. That’s real empowerment.”

Health, Infrastructure, and Humanitarian Touch

In the health sector, Alkali’s efforts have brought relief to many families. He has facilitated the renovation of primary health centers, the donation of hospital beds, and the supply of essential drugs to underserved communities. Periodic medical outreaches have provided free consultations and treatments for residents who otherwise cannot afford basic healthcare.

Infrastructure, too, has not been left behind. Roads, boreholes, and solar street lights in several wards stand as visible testimonies of his dedication. These projects have improved mobility, enhanced security, and restored dignity to communities long neglected by successive governments.

In places like Jambutu, Doubeli, and Rumde, residents point to water projects and drainage systems executed through Alkali’s constituency intervention. “Before now, we used to trek long distances to fetch water,” says Mallam Adamu Musa, a community elder. “Today, thanks to Hon. Alkali, clean water runs close to our doorsteps.”

A Model of Responsive Representation

Hon. Suleiman Alkali’s leadership style combines consultation with compassion. He holds regular town hall meetings where constituents freely express their concerns and expectations. This participatory approach has strengthened the bond between him and his people, fostering trust and accountability.

In the Adamawa State House of Assembly, he is known for his calm disposition, articulate contributions, and unwavering defense of his constituency’s interests. Colleagues describe him as a bridge-builder—someone who seeks consensus rather than confrontation. His legislative interventions often reflect careful study and deep empathy.

“Hon. Alkali is the kind of leader our democracy needs,” remarks a fellow legislator. “He listens, he engages, and he acts with integrity.”

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the impressive strides, Alkali remains humble about his achievements. He acknowledges that more work lies ahead—especially in addressing unemployment, urban poverty, and environmental degradation in Yola North. His goal is not just to deliver projects but to create systems that sustain development long after his tenure.

“We have made progress, but there is still much to be done,” he said recently. “My commitment is to continue serving the people who entrusted me with their mandate, ensuring that every initiative we undertake translates to real change in their lives.”

Behold the Man Who Has Come to Serve

In an age when public office is often viewed as a means of personal enrichment, Hon. Suleiman Umar Alkali represents a different breed of politician—one who measures success not by wealth or titles, but by the number of lives transformed.

His story is that of a man deeply connected to his roots, driven by empathy, and guided by a moral compass that points unwaveringly toward service. In Yola North, his footprints are not just visible—they are felt in classrooms, health centers, workshops, and homes.

Indeed, behold the man who has come to serve—a man proving, one project at a time, that politics can still be noble when it is people-centered.

KEPA, Ecoblue Partner to Transform Kaduna’s Waste Management System

By Samuel Forani

Kaduna

Reforming the Waste Management Landscape

Under the new administration, KEPA has made clear that only licensed waste handlers operating under Ecoblue Waste Management will be recognized by the state government.

This policy, officials say, will ensure proper monitoring, training, and safe disposal of solid waste in accordance with environmental best practices.

On Wednesday, 9 October 2025, KEPA’s mobile court embarked on an extensive tour of corporate organizations to enforce compliance with the new rules.

The exercise, which covered companies including Sapphire, Rittys, FCMB, Synlab, Mussafir Hotel, and United Surgical Ltd, resulted in multiple fines for violating KEPA’s waste management laws.

Court Orders and Compliance

In one of the cases, Rittys, located at No. 26 Maiduguri Road, Kaduna, was accused of using an unauthorized waste contractor.

‘Only Ecoblue Is Authorized’ — KEPA Consultant

“Our goal is to make Kaduna clean and safe. Every waste management organization must register under Ecoblue,” Jumbo stated.

“We are introducing new techniques for proper solid waste evacuation. Our team will train all registered handlers, monitor their operations, and ensure waste is not dumped in unauthorized sites.”

He urged both residents and corporate organizations to verify with KEPA and Ecoblue before engaging any waste disposal firm.

“Under the leadership of General Manager Yahaya Yakubu Victor, Kaduna will experience a new environmental order — cleaner streets, safer neighborhoods, and a more eco-friendly urban environment,” he added.

KEPA’s Legal Team Commends Compliance

“Today’s exercise shows that awareness is growing. Many organizations have adjusted to KEPA’s requirements, and those who refused to comply were sanctioned,” Swam told reporters.

He credited the new KEPA management for restoring public confidence in the agency’s environmental protection mission.

A New Era of Environmental Responsibility

Environmental analysts have lauded the new KEPA leadership for bringing renewed energy and transparency to waste management in Kaduna.

Under Yahaya Yakubu Victor, the agency has moved from passive regulation to active enforcement — combining law, partnership, and innovation to protect Kaduna’s environment.

With Ecoblue Waste Management as the sole authorized handler, KEPA says it can now guarantee better monitoring, cleaner streets, and a long-term shift toward sustainable urban living.

“This is not just enforcement,” a senior KEPA officer remarked. “It’s environmental renewal — and Kaduna is leading the way.”

Dr. Nita Byack George Commends Gov. Uba Sani’s Drive for Gender Equality in Governance

By Samuel Forani

Hon. (Dr.) Nita Byack George, a renowned administrator and advocate for women’s empowerment, has applauded the Kaduna State Government under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani for its unwavering commitment to gender inclusivity.

Her commendation came after the state’s recent recognition at the 9th Voice of Women Conference and Awards (VOW2025) held in Abuja, where the Kaduna State Public Procurement Authority (KADPPA) received the award for “The Government Agency Supporting Women and Their Families.”

Dr. George described the honour as “a remarkable testament to visionary leadership and progressive policy.”

“I am thrilled to congratulate the Kaduna State Government under the able leadership of His Excellency, Senator (Dr.) Uba Sani, CON. This award is not just a recognition of KADPPA’s work, but a validation of the state’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and inclusion,” she stated.

Dr. George, who served as the immediate past Administrator of Jaba Local Government Area and attended the event as a Special Guest, said the award reflected Kaduna State’s deliberate efforts to make gender-inclusive policies a reality.

“As someone who has dedicated years to advocating for women’s health, empowerment, and leadership inclusion at both national and international levels, I am heartened to see the real impact of deliberate, gender-responsive governance,” she added.

She highlighted some of the administration’s recent milestones, including the Women Affirmative Procurement Policy approved by the Kaduna State Executive Council and the establishment of a Gender Responsive Department and Desk at KADPPA under the leadership of its Director-General, Engr. Sanusi A. Yero.

“These initiatives show that Kaduna is not just talking about inclusivity—it is institutionalising it. Governor Uba Sani’s administration is setting a model for others across Nigeria to emulate,” she remarked.

Commending the governor’s broader advocacy for women’s political representation, Dr. George hailed his support for the Reserved Seat for Women Bill, which is currently gaining traction at the National Assembly.

“I must commend Governor Uba Sani’s leadership and vision for championing gender-sensitive policies, especially the Reserved Seat for Women Bill. I am proud to be part of a network of advocates working tirelessly to ensure the passage of this bill, which will undoubtedly increase women’s representation in politics and decision-making positions,” she said.

Dr. George also lauded the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its continued commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusivity.

“The current administration has shown a strong resolve to promote inclusivity. I am honoured to be a part of this journey, working alongside like-minded individuals, governments, and partners such as the Ministry of Women Affairs, UN Women, the League of Women Voters, and Voice of Women Radio to create a more equitable society,” she noted.

She further praised the leadership of the National Assembly, describing their commitment to the Reserved Seat for Women Bill as “historic.”

“I wish to commend the Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (GCON)-led House of Representatives and the Sen. Godswill Akpabio (GCON)-led Senate for their immeasurable commitment to ensuring that the Reserved Seat for Women Bill gains Presidential assent and full implementation. I am optimistic that equal political representation will soon become a conquered struggle in Nigeria,” she affirmed.

Dr. George called for continued collaboration across all levels of government and civil society to sustain the momentum in gender advocacy.

“Congratulations to the Kaduna State Government and KADPPA on this well-deserved recognition. Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for women and girls in Kaduna State, Nigeria, and beyond,” she concluded.

Neglected at the Pump: Petrol Station Workers Cry Out Over Exploitation, Poor Wages, and Unsafe Conditions

By Abib Agaba

As the crisis in Nigeria’s petroleum industry deepens with the faceoff between Dangote Refinery and key industry unions such as PENGASSAN and NUPENG dominating headlines, a quieter but more painful struggle is unfolding across the country’s filling stations.

From cities to remote villages, petrol station workers, the last link between fuel and consumers, say they are “dying in silence,” trapped in a cycle of neglect, exploitation, and silence.

Under the banner of the Concerned Petrol Station Workers (CPSWs), the group, in a press statement by Comrade Ibrahim Zango, on October 5, 2025, lamented the poor working conditions, meagre wages, and abuse they endure daily.

“We are the ones who stand under the scorching sun and in the rain to serve millions every day, yet we are treated as if our lives don’t matter.

“We are dying in silence for fear of being molested or frustrated for raising our voices, even when we are like the engine room of Nigerian petroleum sector,” he added.

Despite being vital to Nigeria’s petroleum distribution system, the workers said they remain among the most underpaid and undervalued groups in the country’s labour force.

Many, they claimed, earn as little as N20,000 to N30,000 monthly, far below the national cost of living.

“How do you survive on N20,000 in today’s Nigeria? We don’t even get allowances or medical support. If you complain, you risk losing your job,” one attendant decried.

According to the statement, petrol station workers are routinely forced to pay for fuel shortages caused by faulty pumps or accounting discrepancies beyond their control.

In addition, they face daily exposure to toxic fumes, robbery attacks, and other workplace hazards, often without protective gear or insurance, Zango said.

“When there’s a fire outbreak, robbery, or accident, the owners disappear, and the attendants are left to suffer. We are the unsung heroes of Nigeria’s oil economy,” he said.

The group also accused some station owners of silencing workers who attempt to unionise or demand fair treatment, using intimidation and physical harassment to suppress activism.

“Even the law doesn’t seem to protect us. We can’t form unions, and NUPENG has not organized us effectively. We are just on our own,” another worker claimed.

The CPSWs called on the Federal Government, the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to intervene and ensure that petrol station workers are included in ongoing discussions on petroleum sector reforms.

Their demands include fair wages commensurate with their role in the fuel distribution chain, improved working conditions including rest breaks, safety gear, and regulated shifts, and union protection to freely organise without intimidation.

Others are health and safety measures to mitigate occupational hazards, immediate action by NUPENG to organise effective leadership for petrol station workers at all levels.

“Petrol station workers are not invisible. We are not expendable. We are Nigerians who keep the economy running, often at the expense of our own health and dignity.

“Our voices must no longer be silenced. Our cry must no longer go unheard. It is time to recognise, respect, and uplift the frontline workers of the petroleum sector,” Zango said.

As the nation grapples with the high cost of fuel and instability in the petroleum market, the plight of petrol station workers adds a stark human face to Nigeria’s deepening oil-sector woes.

Yari Hails Nigerians’ Spirit of Unity, Commends Tinubu on National Day

Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, has joined millions of citizens to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day, describing it as a sacred milestone that embodies the nation’s resilience, unity, and unwavering hope.

In a congratulatory message, Senator Yari extended warm felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and to all Nigerians at home and abroad, stressing that October 1st goes beyond a date on the calendar. According to him, it represents the triumph of self-determination, the promise of self-governance, and the collective pursuit of a prosperous future.

Reflecting on the significance of the day, the Zamfara-born statesman urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers, the courage of its people, and the enduring strength in its diversity. “From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene hills of Jos, from the industrious East to the proud heritage of the North—we are one Nigeria, bound by shared dreams and a common purpose,” he declared.

Senator Yari commended President Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to national development, security, and economic revitalization. He expressed confidence that the National Day celebration would rekindle a collective resolve to build a just and peaceful society where opportunities abound for all citizens.

“To every Nigerian, I say: stand tall, be proud, and keep believing. The journey may be long, but our spirit is unbreakable. Together, we shall rise,” Yari affirmed in an inspiring message to citizens.

He prayed for divine blessings on Nigeria, adding: “Happy Independence Day, Nigeria. May God bless our homeland and guide her path.”

Civil Society Groups Protest at NSCDC HQ, Accuse Officers of Shielding Fraud Suspect

Abu Adamu

Abuja

September 25, 2025 – A coalition of civil society organizations on Thursday staged a protest at the headquarters of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abuja, accusing some officers of colluding with a fraud suspect, Mr. Sylvanus Enonche Okoh, to obstruct justice.

The groups said Mr. Okoh is already standing trial before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges including identity theft, personation, and making false statements. They alleged he fraudulently claimed to be the late Mr. Kenneth Ogbogu in order to obtain property documents and has multiple other criminal cases pending against him in different police stations.

After securing bail, the coalition said, Okoh procured a restraining order through a proxy at a Wuse Magistrate Court to bar the rightful owner from accessing his property. The order was later vacated after the court discovered it was obtained by deceit.

Despite this, protesters alleged that policemen and NSCDC officers continued to occupy the property, even when presented with the valid court ruling.

“This is not just about one property. It is about the integrity of our judicial system,” said Prof. Barika Dominic Saro-Laka, Founder of The Mighty One Empowerment Foundation. “Fraudsters must not be allowed to exploit the courts while corrupt officers aid them.”

Shedrach Oka, speaking for Youths Off The Street, warned that the NSCDC’s reputation was at stake.

“The Commandant General must call his men to order. Nigerians trust this agency, and that trust must not be destroyed by illegality.”

The groups demanded immediate enforcement of the valid court order, withdrawal of police and Civil Defence officers from the property, and fresh charges against Okoh for abuse of court process and obstruction of justice. They also called for an investigation into his alleged collusion with law enforcement officers.

Plateau Central Senatorial Zone and Our Leadership Problem

By Machief Ayuba Mallo Political Analyst & Concerned Citizen, Plateau Central Zone

Politics in Plateau Central Senatorial Zone has, in recent years, become more about quarrels and insults than about genuine service. Leaders and their supporters from different parties spend too much time tearing each other down instead of addressing the urgent problems of our people. Meanwhile, poverty, insecurity, unemployment, and poor infrastructure continue to weigh down our communities—even though our land is blessed with fertile soil and rich mineral resources.

Local Government Areas like Bokkos, Kanam, Mangu, Pankshin, and Kanke remain underdeveloped. Rather than uniting to solve these challenges, our leaders keep fighting among themselves, weakening our collective voice and leaving our communities exposed to bandits and terrorists.

Plato once warned in The Republic that when leaders divide into factions, the common good suffers. Unfortunately, this is exactly the story of Plateau Central today. Our leaders must return to their true duty—to serve, to unite, and to bring progress.

The Partisan Battles

Prof. Nentawe Y. Goshowe (APC National Chairman)

Prof. Nentawe, a son of Plateau, now holds the influential position of APC National Chairman. Instead of rallying behind him to channel federal attention and development to our state, many opposition figures and their online “data boys” devote their time to attacking him. Every statement he makes is twisted into an opportunity for mockery.

This weakens Plateau. Aristotle, in Politics, reminded us that the stability of any society depends on leaders building friendship rather than enmity. Sadly, we seem to be doing the opposite.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang (PDP)

Governor Mutfwang faces the same hostility. Each project or policy he introduces is met, not with constructive criticism, but with insults and personal attacks. Debate is healthy for democracy, but a destructive “pull-him-down” culture is not. This negative pattern has long crippled Nigerian politics—and now it is crippling us here at home.

Hon. Yusuf Gagdi and the State Police Debate

Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, who represents Pankshin/Kanam/Kanke, has openly opposed the creation of state police. He argues that governors could misuse such forces and insists it is safer to rely on the federal police. His argument has some merit.

But Plateau Central has bled too much. Kanam, for example, has suffered repeated attacks. On July 6, 2025, gunmen ambushed a vigilante group, killing eight civilians. On September 15, 2025, the village head of Shuwaka in Garga District was kidnapped and murdered. Too often, federal security forces arrive after the damage is done. Communities believe that only local policing—officers who know the terrain—can offer real protection.

This raises a fair question: is Hon. Gagdi’s resistance based purely on principle, or is it also influenced by politics? Lee Drutman, in Breaking the Two-Party Doom Loop (2020), warned that endless partisan rivalry blocks real solutions. His words echo loudly in Plateau Central today.

The Way Forward

If Plateau Central is to break free from insecurity and underdevelopment, we need less noise and more action:

Strengthen Operation Rainbow
The state should equip Operation Rainbow with vehicles, weapons, drones, and proper training. They must work with locals who know the terrain, patrol villages, and dismantle criminal hideouts.
Prosecute Criminals, Don’t Negotiate With Them
Killers and sponsors of violence should face justice in court. “Peace meetings” with criminals, like the accords in Mangu (2023) and Jos (2025), only embolden them. True peace requires justice, not compromise.
Unity Beyond Party Lines
After elections, politics should give way to patriotism. Leaders, chiefs, religious figures, and civil society must work together for security and development. Jonathan White and Lea Ypi, in The Meaning of Partisanship (2016), observed that partisanship is valuable only when it transforms into patriotism after elections. Similarly, Arend Lijphart, in Democracy in Plural Societies (1977), showed that divided societies endure only when leaders cooperate across group lines.

My Call to Plateau Central People

My people, the truth is simple: if our leaders keep fighting one another, insecurity and poverty will never end. Development cannot thrive in division.

But if we, the people of Plateau Central—leaders, youths, elders, women, and our brothers and sisters in the diaspora—join hands and speak with one voice, we can demand accountability, strengthen our security, and attract development.

The time for quarrels is over. The time for unity and progress is now.

Machief Ayuba Mallo
Political Analyst & Concerned Citizen
Plateau Central Zone
📞 +2349064643143
📧 machief88@outlook.com

Prayers, Joy, and Friendship Mark Yari Family Wedding in Kaduna

By Grace Odumu

The Sultan Bello Mosque in Kaduna was filled with prayers, laughter, and goodwill on Friday, September 19, 2025, as the Yari family celebrated the wedding of their son, Nasirudeen Abdul’aziz Yari, and Safiya Shehu Idris.

The family of Kayayen Mafara Yari Abublakar has since expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, clerics, friends, and associates who honored the occasion.

In its goodwill message, the family specifically acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and House Speaker Tajuddeen Abbas, whose presence “symbolized Nigeria’s enduring bonds of unity.”

“We are grateful beyond words to all who prayed with us, rejoiced with us, and stood by us on this important day,” the statement read.

The family also extended thanks to governors, ministers, legislators, business leaders, and traditional rulers, stressing that their presence strengthened ties of friendship and national harmony.

Signatories to the message included H.E. Mukhtar Shehu Idris (Kogunan Gusau), Engr. Abdullah Abdulkarim Tsafe, PhD, and several others representing the extended Yari family.

Renewed Hope Agenda: FG Sets Up Committee to Implement National Energy Masterplan

By Mike Odeh James

Abuja

In its committed drive to deliver on the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, in partnership with the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), has successfully inaugurated the National Energy Masterplan Implementation Committee (NEMIC).

The inauguration of the members of the committee took place during a high-level ceremony held at the Minister’s Conference Room, with the Chairman/National Coordinator, Co-Chairman, and Members in attendance.

The event, which marked a historic milestone in Nigeria’s energy sector reform efforts, underscored the Federal Government’s determination to deliver a coordinated and sustainable energy transition under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Others in attendance included senior government officials, development partners, representatives of the private sector, civil society organizations, and international stakeholders who have expressed strong support for the Masterplan’s implementation.

In his welcome address, the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, emphasized that the National Energy Masterplan serves as a comprehensive blueprint to ensure energy security, expand access to reliable electricity, promote renewable energy, and reduce Nigeria’s carbon footprint in line with global climate goals.

Goodwill messages delivered by development partners, ministries, and other stakeholders reflected a shared commitment to building strong institutional frameworks, mobilizing investments, and strengthening technical capacities to drive the Masterplan’s successful implementation.

Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing the energy sector, strengthening public-private partnerships, and promoting indigenous innovation in energy technologies.

The Minister stressed that the work of the NEMIC would be critical in ensuring that Nigeria’s energy infrastructure keeps pace with industrial growth, population expansion, and environmental sustainability imperatives.