Author Archives: News All Around

An Arewa socio-cultural group has praised the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, for what it described as his commitment to the protection of Northerners residing in the state.

The group, under the aegis of the Arewa Unity and Development Forum, said Governor Uzodimma’s administration has continued to demonstrate inclusiveness and tolerance by ensuring that residents, regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds, enjoy equal rights and protection under the law.

In a press statement signed by Comrade Musa Bawa Mohammed, the group’s spokesperson noted that the governor had consistently promoted peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups living in Imo State, creating an atmosphere conducive for business and social interaction.

According to the group, thousands of Northerners living and conducting legitimate businesses in the state have benefited from the government’s efforts to maintain security and foster unity among residents.

“We commend Governor Hope Uzodimma for his leadership and commitment to the safety of all Nigerians living in Imo State. His administration has shown that every citizen, irrespective of tribe or religion, deserves protection and equal opportunities,” the spokesperson said.

The forum further stated that the governor’s approach to governance has helped strengthen national integration and reduce ethnic tensions, particularly at a time when the country faces various security and socio-political challenges.

The group urged other state governors across the federation to emulate Uzodimma’s example by implementing policies that promote inclusiveness, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at fostering national unity and encouraging harmonious relationships among Nigerians regardless of their place of origin.

The Arewa group expressed optimism that continued collaboration between government authorities and community leaders would further enhance peace, security, and economic development in Imo State and across the country.

The recent launch of the Atiku Abubakar political platform in Zamfara State by Senator Abdulaziz Yari is a brazen act of anti-party activity designed to sabotage the re-election bid of Governor Dauda Lawal and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Credible reports confirm that Yari’s inner caucus and loyalists were fully kitted in Atiku-branded materials during the symbolic unveiling, leaving no doubt about his alignment with the opposition.

This comes against a troubling backdrop:

1. Financial Questions: It is public knowledge that Senator Yari’s bank accounts were recently frozen by relevant authorities over unresolved financial issues.This raises serious questions he is yet to answer.
2. Disregard for Party Unity: Yari deliberately boycotted all stakeholders’ meetings of Zamfara political leaders before and after the APC primaries, showing contempt for collective decision-making.
3. Rejection of State Leadership: By his actions, Yari has insultingly refused to recognize Governor Dauda Lawal as the political leader of Zamfara State, thereby abdicating his responsibility to the APC structure he claims to belong to.

It is therefore inconceivable that a so-called APC leader would undermine the party’s chances ahead of crucial elections. Yet, history is repeating itself this is the same pattern of betrayal that cost APC all political offices in Zamfara in the past.

Further, there are widespread rumors that Senator Yari is bankrolling elements in opposition parties to weaken both Governor Dauda Lawal and President Tinubu’s electoral prospects.

Recall that a few months ago, Yari held a private meeting with Atiku Abubakar at the latter’s residence. No details of that meeting were disclosed. With the launch of this Atiku platform in Zamfara, it is now clear: Yari is working behind the scenes to engineer APC’s failure in Zamfara State.

We call on the APC National Working Committee to investigate these anti-party activities and act decisively. Zamfara APC cannot afford another betrayal.

Mohammed Yusuf
NATIONAL COORDINATOR.

APC RESQUE AND REBUILD MOVEMENT.

ABUJA — A political group within the All Progressives Congress (APC), the APC Rescue and Rebuild Movement, has accused former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdulaziz Yari, of engaging in activities capable of undermining the party’s fortunes in the state ahead of future elections.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Mohammed Yusuf, the group alleged that Yari recently facilitated the launch of a political platform associated with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in Zamfara State.

The group claimed that members of Yari’s political camp and loyalists attended the event wearing materials branded with Atiku’s insignia, which it described as evidence of an alliance with the opposition.

According to the statement, the development raises concerns about Yari’s commitment to the APC and its electoral prospects in Zamfara State.

The APC Rescue and Rebuild Movement further alleged that Yari had distanced himself from party activities in the state, including stakeholders’ meetings held before and after previous APC primaries.

The group also accused the former governor of failing to acknowledge the leadership role of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, within the state’s political structure.

“It is inconceivable that a leader who claims loyalty to the APC would engage in actions capable of weakening the party ahead of critical elections,” the statement said.

The group warned that similar divisions within the party had previously contributed to APC’s electoral setbacks in Zamfara and cautioned against a repeat of what it described as past political mistakes.

It also referenced reports of a private meeting between Yari and Atiku several months ago, arguing that recent political developments in the state have fueled speculation about the nature of their discussions.

The statement further alleged that Yari may be supporting opposition political interests aimed at weakening both Governor Lawal and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Zamfara State, although no evidence was provided to substantiate the claim.

The APC Rescue and Rebuild Movement called on the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to investigate the allegations and take what it described as appropriate action if any anti-party activities are established.

As of the time of filing this report, Senator Yari had not publicly responded to the allegations. Efforts to obtain his reaction were unsuccessful.

The allegations remain claims by the APC Rescue and Rebuild Movement and have not been independently verified.

Crisis rocks the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna as party has produced two separate senatorial candidates for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District, raising fresh concerns over deepening divisions within the opposition party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Information gathered revealed that former lawmaker, Senator Musa Bello, emerged as the candidate of one faction of the party, while the incumbent lawmaker representing the district, Senator Lawal Adamu, was reportedly declared candidate by a rival faction.

The development has created uncertainty among party members and supporters across Kaduna State, with both camps insisting that their respective candidates emerged through legitimate processes conducted in accordance with the party’s constitution and guidelines.

Sources disclosed that parallel exercises were allegedly conducted by competing factions, resulting in the emergence of different candidates for the same senatorial seat. Each group has continued to lay claim to the authentic mandate, further fueling tensions within the party.

Some members interviewed described the situation as a major setback for the ADC, particularly in Kaduna Central, regarded as one of the most politically strategic senatorial districts in the state.The district comprises seven local government areas — Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Igabi, Chikun, Giwa, Kajuru and Birnin Gwari — making it a critical battleground in the state’s political landscape.

Party stakeholders have expressed fears that the unresolved dispute could significantly weaken the ADC’s prospects in Kaduna Central, where the party is expected to challenge established political forces, particularly the ruling All Progressives Congress and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party.

“The emergence of parallel candidates sends a negative signal to voters and may undermine the party’s growing support base in the state,” a party source who requested anonymity said.

The crisis comes amid increasing political realignments across Kaduna State, with several politicians reportedly exploring new alliances and platforms ahead of the next electoral cycle.

As of press time, officials of the party had yet to issue a comprehensive statement clarifying the status of the two claimants. However, sources within the ADC disclosed that consultations were ongoing among key stakeholders to prevent the disagreement from escalating into a prolonged legal and political battle.

Some party members argued that the emergence of multiple claimants to the same senatorial ticket reflects broader leadership and organisational challenges that have recently affected the ADC at the national level. The party has in recent years witnessed internal disagreements and legal tussles over its leadership structure, issues that critics say continue to affect its cohesion.

Meanwhile, political watchers across Kaduna State are closely monitoring developments, as the eventual resolution of the controversy is expected to have far-reaching implications for the Kaduna Central senatorial contest and the broader opposition strategy in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A Political Commentary By Mustapha Mohammed Gusau.

As Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections, members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) must remain focused on anti- party activities by some aggrieved party members and loyalists.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration continues to implement policies aimed at economic reform, security enhancement, and national development. While opinions may differ on the pace and impact of these reforms, there is no doubt that the success of the APC in 2027 will depend largely on its ability to checkmate party leaders and loyalists who are planning to sabotage the success of the APC in both governorship and presidential elections.

Steps must be put in place to cross check and monitor such ambitions party leaders who are bent on ensuring that everything must be done in accordance to their interests because they have money in their hands.

Political history has repeatedly shown that opposition parties often benefit not only from their own organization but also from conflicts within ruling parties. In Zamfara State, many party loyalists still reflect on the circumstances surrounding the APC’s loss of the governorship seat in 2023.

Different stakeholders have offered varying interpretations of what went wrong, but one lesson remains clear: disunity carries a heavy political cost.

Recent political developments and speculations have generated concerns among some APC members regarding the activities of certain influential figures within the party. There are growing discussions in political circles suggesting that some individuals may be reconsidering their political alignments ahead of 2027. While such reports remain matters of public debate and should be treated with caution until verified, they have understandably attracted the attention of party faithful.

Of particular concern to many supporters is the possibility that personal grievances, political ambitions, or unresolved disputes could overshadow the collective interests of the party in Zamfara State.

The APC recent launching of Atiku Support and Solidarity Caps by Sen. Yari loyalists and political camp and his remarks that he would not speak until after the elections, has generated concerns and dabates among APC stakeholders and political groups. Investigations into the motives behind the Yari camp recent actions and activities showed that camp was not happy with the freezing of the their Boss accounts on the allegations of financial misconduct and refusal by the President to see him in Paris when he visited the President. Angered by these combined action against their leaders, the inner circle of the political camp decided to shift their allegiance to Atiku Abubakar and some other political parties as they did to the APC in the 2023 governorship election in Zamfara State, leading to the lost of the governorship seat.
An insider who pleaded anonymous said Yari Aircraft manager and handler one Mr Ema was recently invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and was ordered to handover all documents relating to the Yari’s Aircrafts. This, according to the inside source has caused more actions that could lead to anti-party activities during the elections.
The most significant action of the Yari camp is the recent design, production and launching of the Atiku Support Caps as shown in the pictures below.
( insert the pictures)
Party Myers leaders at both state and national levels must remain alert to any actions that may undermine party success at the 2027 elections in Zamfara State or weaken support for President Tinubu’s re-election efforts.

Political loyalty is ultimately tested during challenging periods. Genuine party leaders are expected to place the interests of their party, their state, and the nation above personal considerations.

As the 2027 elections draw nearer, APC supporters across Zamfara State must prioritize unity, grassroots mobilization, and effective communication of the achievements of the Tinubu administration.

The focus should remain on presenting a compelling vision for the future rather than engaging in destructive internal rivalries.

The road to victory in 2027 will not be determined by individual political calculations but by the collective commitment of party members to a common purpose.

APC stakeholders must therefore work together to prevent divisions, discourage sabotage, and ensure that the party remains strong enough to retain the presidency and reclaim greater political strength in Zamfara State.

History has shown that united parties win elections, while divided parties create opportunities for their opponents.

The choice before APC members is therefore clear: unity, discipline, and loyalty to the party’s shared objectives must prevail over personal interests if success is to be achieved in 2027.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State has cautioned former Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Zailani, against what it described as persistent provocative remarks and attacks on the ruling party following his defeat in the recently concluded party primaries.

The party leadership expressed concern over Zailani’s recent public comments, alleging that the former lawmaker had embarked on a campaign capable of undermining the unity and image of the APC in Kaduna State.

Speaking in a chat with journalists, the Chairman of the APC in Igabi Local Government, Hon. Bashir Jibrin Jaji, said the party was disappointed by what he termed “unwarranted vituperations” from a senior party member who had benefitted immensely from the platform of the APC.

According to Jaji, Zailani’s conduct since the conclusion of the primaries has been unbecoming of a party loyalist and could create unnecessary tension within the ranks of the party if not checked.

He noted that the APC primary election was conducted in a fair, transparent and credible manner, adding that all aspirants were given equal opportunities to test their popularity before delegates.

“Politics is not a do-or-die affair. It is a game of numbers. The people have spoken through the democratic process and every aspirant is expected to respect the outcome of the primaries,” Jaji said.

The APC chairman further alleged that since losing the contest, the former Speaker had become increasingly critical of the party and its leadership, a development he said was capable of misleading party supporters and members of the public.

He stressed that party discipline remains a core principle of the APC and warned that any member found engaging in actions capable of bringing the party into disrepute could face sanctions in line with the party’s constitution.

“We are advising Rt. Hon. Yusuf Zailani to refrain from making statements that could damage the image of the APC. Constructive criticism is welcome within the party, but attacks that portray the party negatively will not be tolerated.

“As a respected elder and former Speaker, he should be helping to strengthen party cohesion rather than creating divisions. The APC remains united and focused on delivering democratic dividends to the people,” he added.

Jaji called on party members across Igabi Local Government and Kaduna State to remain calm, loyal and committed to the ideals of the APC, irrespective of the outcome of internal contests.

He maintained that the party’s leadership remains open to reconciliation and dialogue with aggrieved members but emphasized that all members must place the collective interest of the APC above personal ambitions.

The APC chairman expressed confidence that the party would emerge stronger from the post-primary period and urged members to close ranks ahead of future political engagements.

—

By Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse)

Public healthcare remains one of the most important measures of government performance because it directly affects the wellbeing, productivity, and quality of life of citizens. Across Nigeria, healthcare delivery continues to face numerous challenges, ranging from inadequate infrastructure and manpower shortages to concerns over affordability and accessibility of services. Despite these challenges, some states are demonstrating that sustained investments and deliberate policy actions can produce measurable improvements in healthcare delivery. Jigawa State presents one such example.

The 2025 healthcare rankings and assessments across the country brought renewed attention to the state of public healthcare in Nigeria. While many states continue to grapple with deficiencies in service delivery and declining public confidence in government-owned health facilities, the rankings also highlighted positive examples where strategic interventions have yielded encouraging results.

Among the states that stood out was Jigawa, which was ranked second among Nigeria’s best-performing states in public hospital care. The ranking reflected the level of satisfaction expressed by residents who access services across the state’s network of Apex healthcare facilities and General Hospitals. It also underscored the growing confidence of citizens in the quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of services provided by public health institutions in the state.

This achievement did not occur by chance. Over the years, the Jigawa State Government has demonstrated a commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery through increased budgetary allocations, infrastructure development, and targeted reforms aimed at improving access to quality medical services.
The state’s 2025 budget further expanded investments in the health sector, reflecting the administration’s recognition of healthcare as a critical component of social and economic development. These investments have translated into the rehabilitation and upgrading of healthcare facilities across the state, particularly at the primary and secondary levels.

One of the most significant aspects of these interventions is the ongoing revitalisation of more than 100 healthcare facilities spread across various communities. Beyond physical renovations, the projects have included the provision of staff accommodation, solar-powered water systems, improved security infrastructure, and other essential facilities that support effective healthcare delivery.

These improvements are particularly important for rural communities where access to healthcare services has historically been limited. By strengthening healthcare facilities at the grassroots level, the government is helping to bridge longstanding gaps in healthcare access while bringing essential services closer to the people.
Equally noteworthy is the state’s investment in specialised healthcare infrastructure. The establishment of advanced diagnostic and cardiac centres reflects a broader vision of reducing dependence on medical referrals outside the state and improving access to specialised medical care for residents.

Such investments demonstrate an understanding that an effective healthcare system requires a balance between strong primary healthcare services and access to advanced medical treatment. While primary healthcare remains the foundation of any healthcare system, specialised services are equally necessary for addressing complex medical conditions and improving overall health outcomes.
The lessons from the 2025 rankings are clear. First, healthcare outcomes improve when governments move beyond policy declarations and commit adequate resources to implementation.

Sustainable progress in healthcare requires consistent funding, effective planning, and strong monitoring mechanisms to ensure that investments translate into better services for citizens.
Second, infrastructure alone is not enough. Investments in healthcare personnel, equipment, training, and accountability systems are equally important. A modern hospital building can only deliver quality care when supported by skilled professionals and functional medical equipment.

Third, primary healthcare remains the cornerstone of public health delivery. Strengthening community-based healthcare facilities reduces pressure on secondary and tertiary institutions while ensuring that citizens can access essential healthcare services close to their homes.

Another important lesson is the role of citizen engagement in improving public service delivery. Public trust in healthcare institutions grows when citizens can see and experience tangible improvements in service delivery. In Jigawa State, efforts to strengthen public participation in governance, including regular sectoral review meetings involving key stakeholders, have contributed to greater accountability and responsiveness within the health sector.
While challenges remain and no healthcare system can be considered perfect, the progress recorded in Jigawa demonstrates that meaningful improvements are achievable through visionary leadership, strategic planning, and sustained investment.

As governments across the country reflect on the findings of the 2025 rankings, the focus should not merely be on positions on a scorecard. Rather, attention should be directed towards building resilient healthcare systems capable of providing quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare services to all citizens.
Ultimately, the true measure of success in public healthcare is not the ranking itself but the confidence of ordinary citizens who can walk into a public hospital and receive timely, dignified, and quality medical attention. That remains the benchmark every state should aspire to achieve.

The experience of Jigawa State serves as a reminder that with political will, prudent resource allocation, and a people-centred approach to governance, significant progress in healthcare delivery is possible. The lessons from the 2025 ranking therefore extend beyond recognition; they provide a roadmap for strengthening public healthcare systems and improving the lives of millions of Nigerians.
Yunusa Hamza (Tafidan Farin Dutse) writes from Farin Dutse, Gwaram Local Government Area of Jigawa State, and can be reached via yunusafarindutse@gmail.com.

By Our Correspondent

Abuja — The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his third anniversary in office, describing him as a reformer whose administration has recorded significant achievements in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.

Dr. Abdullahi said the Tinubu administration has aggressively pursued Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy through large-scale solarisation projects and investments aimed at addressing the country’s persistent power challenges.

According to him, one of the administration’s landmark interventions is the approval of the ₦220 billion National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative, designed to deploy mini-grid solar power projects across federal universities and hospitals nationwide.

He explained that the initiative seeks to provide reliable alternative energy sources, reduce dependence on diesel-powered generators, lower operational costs for public institutions, and ease pressure on the national electricity grid.

“The Federal Government’s vision is that no federal institution of higher learning in this country should remain energy-insecure. That is why we are committed to delivering more than 100 megawatts of alternative energy across 72 primary healthcare centres and tertiary institutions,” Abdullahi said.

The ECN boss noted that the Renewed Hope Solarisation Project has accelerated the deployment of hybrid energy systems in universities, teaching hospitals, and research institutions across the country.

He further disclosed that the commission recently facilitated a landmark partnership with Chinese solar manufacturing giant LONGi to establish a solar panel production facility in Nigeria. According to him, the project is expected to boost local manufacturing capacity, create jobs, and position Nigeria as a regional hub for solar technology exports.

Abdullahi explained that the first phase of the solarisation programme involves the installation of solar photovoltaic arrays integrated with battery energy storage systems to ensure uninterrupted power supply beyond daylight hours.

He added that the systems will be deployed in decentralised clusters to enhance resilience and simplify management, while a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) centre will provide real-time monitoring of power generation, distribution, and overall system performance.

The project also includes the installation of solar-powered streetlights to improve security around campuses and health facilities.

Among the first beneficiaries of the programme are the University of Abuja, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, and the ECN Research Centre in Enugu.

Providing updates on ongoing projects, Abdullahi said the commission has commenced the installation of a 2-megawatt solar power system at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, while a 4-megawatt system is being installed at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.

He also revealed that a groundbreaking ceremony was recently held at Bayero University, Kano, for the installation of a 1-megawatt solar power facility.

According to him, each project forms part of a broader national programme aimed at providing sustainable electricity to hospitals and tertiary institutions across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

“As Nigerians celebrate President Tinubu’s third year in office, we at the Energy Commission of Nigeria wish him continued success as he drives the Renewed Hope Agenda and advances Nigeria’s development through strategic investments in renewable energy,” Abdullahi said.

A political support group under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Igabi APC Women Grassroots Forum, has alleged that former Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Zailani, is still battling with the “pains of political defeat” following the outcome of the recent APC primaries.

The group, in a statement signed by its coordinator, Hajiya Binta Ibrahim Mohammed, said the former Speaker lacked the political influence he often claims to possess, arguing that his inability to deliver electoral victories in his political stronghold exposed his declining relevance within the ruling party.

According to the forum, Zailani failed to secure victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC in his ward, local government area, federal constituency, and the Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone during the 2023 general elections.

The women group maintained that if the former lawmaker truly commanded strong political support across Kaduna State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would not have emerged victorious in key areas believed to be under his political influence despite his open support for the APC presidential candidate.

“A man who could not deliver his ward and local government for the President during the 2023 general elections should not parade himself as a larger-than-life political figure in Kaduna State,” the statement said.

The forum further argued that the outcome of the elections in Kaduna Central Senatorial District and within his federal constituency clearly demonstrated that the former Speaker no longer possessed the political weight he often claimed.

The group also alleged that Zailani was no longer in good standing with party stakeholders at the ward, local government, and state levels, adding that his relationship with grassroots APC members had continued to deteriorate over time.

According to the statement, the former Speaker spent more time in Abuja pursuing contract opportunities rather than building political structures and strengthening party unity at the grassroots level.

The women forum further questioned Zailani’s capacity for higher legislative responsibilities, alleging that he lacked the intellectual depth and articulation required for such positions, while insisting that his political relevance had diminished significantly since leaving office.

The group called on APC members in Kaduna State to remain united and focused on strengthening the party ahead of future elections instead of engaging in actions capable of creating division within the ruling party.

The Arewa Foundation for Peace has condemned what it described as persistent acts of blackmail and character assassination by retired military officer, General Garus Gololo, against respected members of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

In a statement signed by the Coordinator,Alhaji Musa Shehu Gabam , the group expressed concern over what it termed “unfounded allegations and reckless accusations” allegedly being made by Gololo against notable political figures in the country.

The foundation said it was unfortunate that an elder statesman of his standing would allegedly make claims against prominent personalities without providing credible evidence to substantiate such allegations.

“It is very unfortunate that such an elder could raise allegations and issues against important personalities which he cannot back up,” the statement read.
The group further accused the retired general of engaging in actions capable of undermining the unity and collective interests of northern Nigeria, stressing that such conduct runs contrary to the region’s long-standing principles of peace, unity and mutual respect.

According to the foundation, “he has a penchant for blackmail and character assassination, which are counterproductive to the North’s principle of unity and common purpose.”
The organization also distanced itself from the former military officer, declaring that his views and actions do not represent the collective aspirations of northerners committed to peaceful coexistence and political harmony.

“We disassociate ourselves from him as northerners with regard for relationship, political alignment and united front for peaceful coexistence,” the statement added.

The foundation called on respected elders and stakeholders across the northern region to intervene and caution Gololo against making statements capable of creating division between northern and southern Nigerians.
It warned that inflammatory comments and unverified allegations could deepen mistrust and threaten national unity if left unchecked.

“We are calling on elders within the northern region to call him to order before he creates a crack between the North and southern people,” the group stated.

The foundation reiterated its commitment to peace, national unity and constructive political engagement, urging public figures to embrace responsible leadership and avoid utterances capable of heating up the polity.