Author Archives: News All Around

By Victoria Odele

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a stern warning to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding what it describes as a potentially costly political miscalculation — accepting Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State into the party.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, NAN urged the APC to exercise “prudence and foresight” as speculation grows over Governor Lawal’s possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) amid mounting political pressure.

The group expressed concern that Governor Lawal’s rumoured move to the APC is not based on shared ideology or commitment to the party’s principles but rather as a tactical escape from rising political threats. Chief among these threats are the influential Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor Senator Abdulaziz Yari — two powerful figures who have consolidated their influence within the APC and could pose a formidable obstacle to Lawal’s re-election ambitions.

“The dynamics of Zamfara’s political arena are fraught with challenges,” the statement reads. “It is evident that Governor Lawal’s position is increasingly precarious, and his desperation to find political refuge should not be mistaken for strength.”

NAN argues that Dauda Lawal’s entry into the APC would be more of a liability than an asset. They accuse him of having a controversial track record that may weaken the party’s internal cohesion at a critical time when unity is essential for electoral success.

“His political value is questionable,” NAN stated. “His inclusion could sow discord and division within the party ranks. The APC must consider the implications of aligning with a leader whose political capital is clearly waning.”

The organization warned that embracing Lawal could alienate core supporters, tarnish the APC’s reputation, and send the wrong message about the party’s direction and values.

“Instead of strengthening the APC, his presence could ignite factional tensions and destabilize the political equilibrium in Zamfara and beyond. This is not the kind of distraction the party can afford as it prepares for future electoral contests.”

NAN concluded by urging the APC to stay focused on grooming credible, grassroots-oriented leaders who reflect the aspirations of the northern people and can drive sustainable progress.

“We urge the APC to heed this warning and prioritize the collective interests of our people over individual ambitions. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to the progress and prosperity of the N

Yosef Moses

A northern-based advocacy group, Arewa Youths Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a blessing not only to the North but to Nigeria as a whole, citing his remarkable achievements in transforming the nation’s capital.

The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it termed a visionary decision in appointing Wike as FCT Minister, asserting that the appointment was akin to “putting the right peg in the right hole.”

In a statement issued by the Speaker of the Assembly, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group applauded Wike’s pragmatic approach to governance, especially in addressing urban development challenges and security issues in Abuja.

“Since assuming office, Wike has demonstrated exceptional leadership, taking bold steps to address illegal developments, encroachments on public land, and persistent security lapses. His actions reflect a deep commitment to restoring the Abuja master plan and enforcing long-neglected laws,” Danbature said.

He highlighted Wike’s firm measures, including the demolition of unauthorized structures and the removal of street beggars, as necessary and long overdue. According to him, these reforms have reinvigorated public confidence in the FCT administration’s capacity to manage the capital effectively.

The group also commended Wike’s collaboration with neighboring states in tackling insecurity

By Likita Ekani

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Forum (NSCF) has strongly criticized the reported plan by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal Dare, to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as an act of fear and political desperation.

In a statement signed by the forum’s chairman, Comrade Danjuma Paul, the group said the governor’s anticipated move is not based on principles or a desire to deliver better governance but rather on anxiety over the growing political influence of APC stalwarts in the state—specifically the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and former Governor, Senator AbdulAziz Yari.

“The looming shadows of these established political players have evidently instilled a sense of insecurity in Governor Lawal, compelling him to seek refuge in the APC,” the NSCF said. “This act of political expediency underscores a troubling trend: the prioritization of personal ambition over the collective interest of the people of Zamfara State.”

The forum said Governor Lawal has shown himself to be a political liability within the PDP, failing to unite the party or make meaningful contributions to its progress. His defection, they warned, would further expose his inability to handle political pressure and provide stable leadership.

“Governor Lawal has long been perceived as a political baggage within the PDP. His tenure has been marked by underperformance and a lack of vision. Instead of fostering unity and inspiring confidence, he has only deepened internal divisions,” the statement read.

According to the NSCF, the governor’s move to the APC would not resolve the leadership vacuum in the state but rather worsen existing political tensions. They cited the internal strife already plaguing the APC in Zamfara, which they argue would only be intensified by the governor’s entry into the party.

“The APC, under the influence of figures like Bello Matawalle and Senator Yari, is already dealing with internal struggles. Bringing in a governor with questionable leadership credentials will only complicate the situation and heighten instability in the state’s political landscape.”

The forum further warned that the defection signals a retreat from accountability and transparency.

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Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim takes over as the 33th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna

In a significant development for the Nigerian military, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim has resumed in his new post, taking over from the immediate past Commandant Major General JO Ochai who has been in charge for almost 2 years. This appointment highlights his extensive experience and dedication to military education, training and operations within the Nigerian Army.

Born and bred in Kaduna, Major General Ibrahim hails from Borno State and has had a distinguished career since his commissioning on September 19, 1992, through the 39 Regular Combatant Course. Reputed to be a soldier’s soldier, tall well built but surprisingly calm. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to service, rising through the ranks to his current position as Major General.

Major General Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in History from the Nigerian Defence Academy, a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Ahmadu Bello University, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan. He is also a fellow of the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, a think tank of senior military leaders from Africa and around the world affiliated to the United States National Defence University in Washington. Gen Ibrahim is regularly invited to their roundtable discussions in Washington. He is also a regular participant and speaker at the US led Africa Land Forces Summits ( AFLFS) having participated in that of 2022 in Georgia USA and 2024 in Livingstone Zambia. His academic background, coupled with his military training, positions him well to lead the NDA in training and shaping the future leaders of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Throughout his career, Major General Ibrahim has attended numerous military courses, including the Young Officers Course, the Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and various operational training programs. He has held key positions in several battalions and units, including serving as a Platoon Commander, Company Commander ,Operations Officer and deputy Nigerian Contingent Commander in various peacekeeping missions, including those under the United Nations.

His operational experience spans critical missions, including ECOMOG in Liberia , United Nations Misson in Liberia and in Sudan. In Sudan he was part of the vanguard military observers who implemented the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that ended the decades long conflict between North and South Sudan. He had the distinct honour of being the MILOBS Team Leader in his Sector. He also served Operation LAFIYA DOLE in Maiduguri and Operation Harmony in the Bakassi Peninsula during the Nigeria- Cameroon conflict showcasing his capability in both domestic and international military operations. He has been a Chief Instructor in the Nigerian Defence Academy and also at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Jaji Kaduna, a brigade commander, a general officer commanding in 7 Division Operation Lafiya Dole in Maiduguri and served as the longest ever serving Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force against the Boko Haram in Chad. Under his watch several operations were successfully conducted such as Operation Lake Sanity and Operation Sharan Fagge Involving all the countries of the lake Chad Basin (Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and the observer status country of Benin Republic). Deep forays were made into the lake Chad and hundreds of civilians rescued with hundreds of boko haram terrorists neutralized and thousands returned to their ancestral homes. In 7 Division, he galvanized the Division and took the fight to the adversary with remarkable success. Under the strategic guidance of Lt Gen Tukur Buratai rtd then army chief and Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya rtd who was his theatre commander , we can say he was groomed by 2 of the best. Hitherto displaced Nigerians returned to their ancestral homes in Ngoshe, Kirawa, Kauwri, Ajiri and especially Marte..where he personally led the operation that recaptured it in October 2019. The general is widely travelled with contacts and friendships cutting across both civil and military contacts the world over. He had a stint also in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as Director of Policy in the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and light weapons. His leadership and work has earned him several accolades, including the Grand Service Star (GSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) , Decisive Command Medal, Defence Headquarters Medal from the Armed forces of Nigeria. For his contribution to peace, security and national development, the government of Nigeria awarded him the prestigious national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2023. The Chadian Government under President Mahamat Kaka Deby also awarded him the Chadian national honour of National Order of Chad in recognition of his contributions to peace in the Lake Chad Basin region.

As he takes on this new role at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim is expected to leverage his vast experience to enhance the training and education of cadets, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern assymetric warfare and contribute to national security knowing fully well the nexus between security and national development. Informed military analysts are of the opinion that given his antecedents, he should deliver on this assignment especially in the wake of reports of a drop in the level of discipline in the military institution.

Major General Ibrahim is happily married and blessed with children. He is known for his interests in current affairs, horse riding, reading, and sports, particularly football, badminton, and table tennis. He also does charity work engaging the less privileged in the society.

The Nigerian Defence Academy community and military stakeholders look forward to Major General Ibrahim’s leadership as he embarks on this critical role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s military leadership. We wish him well and urge him to hit the ground running for there is no time to waste.

Manu Mani

The Lagos Society for Good Governance (LSGG) has raised an alarm over alleged unconstitutional tenure elongation schemes by Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chairmen in Lagos, urging President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene. The non-partisan group highlighted three LCDAs where successors of deceased chairmen are seeking third terms, contravening 2018 constitutional amendments.

**Key Details:** 
1. **Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA:** Vice Chairman Famuyiwa assumed office after Chairman Arologun’s 2019 death, won re-election in 2021, and now seeks a third term. 
2. Onigbongbo LCDA: Chairman Dotun Adekanye, who succeeded the late Dayo Oke in 2020, died in 2024; his successor’s eligibility for 2025 polls is questioned. 

3. Ikosi Isheri LCDA: Vice Chairman Abolanle Bada, who took over following Abdulfatai Oyesanya’s 2020 death, now faces criticism for a third-term bid after a 2021 re-election. 

Legal Context:

The group cited the *Fourth Alteration Bill No. 16 (2018)*, which limits successors completing a predecessor’s term to one additional term. Former presidential aide Ita Enang clarified this applies even if the initial term was incomplete. Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution mandates democratically elected local councils, reinforcing term limits.

Appeals for Action: 

LSGG called on Tinubu to leverage his “moral authority” and past opposition to tenure elongation under Obasanjo. 

Urged the Attorney-General to issue advisories clarifying term limits for local governments. 
– Pressed Lagos State’s electoral body to disqualify candidates violating term rules and adopt reforms ensuring free polls. 

– “Our democracy cannot afford normalization of constitutional violations,” stated LSGG Coordinator Ademola Gafar. 
– The group referenced Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka: “The greatest threat to democracy is… incremental violations of established norms.” 

**Broader Implications:** 
LSGG warned Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, risks setting a “dangerous precedent” if unchecked. They cited transparent council elections in Ondo, Akwa-Ibom, and northwestern states as models. 

The LSGG vowed to pursue “all legal means” to uphold term limits, urging affected chairmen to “prioritize constitutional integrity over personal ambition.” The situation tests Tinubu’s democratic credentials amid rising scrutiny of Lagos governance practices. 

— 
*Reported by [Your Name], [News Outlet]. Follow for updates on this developing story.*

Luka Markus

Northern youth pressure group under the auspices  of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has expressed grave concern regarding the deteriorating security situation in Zamfara State.

In light of the renewed and escalating insecurity that has left countless lives at risk, the forum has hereby called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the state.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum Yerima Shettima said, despite earlier successes recorded by federal troops in combating banditry, the situation in Zamfara has worsened significantly.

He noted that Armed groups have become increasingly emboldened, launching brazen attacks on innocent civilians, displacing families, and creating an atmosphere of fear and hopelessness, adding that the people of Zamfara are in desperate need of immediate intervention to restore peace and security to their communities.

“We must also highlight the role of the state government under Governor Dauda Lawal Dare in this escalating crisis. The Governor’s inaction, indifference, and total lack of concern for the plight of the citizens have directly contributed to the worsening security situation.

“Instead of taking decisive action to confront the bandits, the governor has demonstrated a total lack of preparedness and capacity to challenge these criminal elements. Furthermore, allegations of the excessive pillage of public funds have raised serious questions about the governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people”.

The AYCF says they  firmly believes that a state of emergency is necessary to mobilize federal resources and restore law and order in Zamfara State and therefore urged President Tinubu to take such critical step to protect the lives and properties of the citizens and to hold the state government accountable for its failures.

“We stand with the people of Zamfara in their quest for safety, security, and justice. It is time for decisive action to end the suffering and restore hope to this beleaguered region” it stated.

ENDS

By Lateef Salami

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has faulted the recent protest led by one 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 under the banner of a group identified as Concerned Citizens Against Corruption, took place Tuesday at the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. The group accused Kyari of failing to settle a $2 billion debt allegedly owed by the NNPCL to a private company.

In a statement issued Thursday, YYC National Coordinator Comrade Eric Oluwole condemned the protest, calling it unjustified, narrow in scope, and driven by selfish motives.

“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 is the group focusing solely on an alleged single debt, while ignoring broader challenges in the petroleum sector that deserve attention—such as escalating fuel prices, supply disruptions, and declining output?”

The YYC argued that the NNPCL, as a corporate entity, has structures in place to handle debt claims and that singling out Kyari for attack was unwarranted and smacked of an ulterior agenda.

The council further asserted that Kyari’s time in office from July 8, 2019, to April 2, 2025, was marked by historic reforms, transformative projects, and efforts that positioned the NNPCL for long-term sustainability.

Some of the notable achievements under Kyari’s leadership, according to the YYC, include:

Implementation of the TAPE agenda (Transparency, Accountability and Performance Excellence), a strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing efficiency and corporate governance in the NNPCL.

Discovery of oil in Kolmani River-II Well, signaling significant potential for increased oil production in Northern Nigeria.

Peak crude oil production of 331,400 barrels per day in May 2020, setting a national record during a challenging period in the global oil market.

Renegotiation of Joint Venture (JV) and Production Sharing Contract (PSC) terms, cutting operational costs from $31 per barrel to $19 in some cases.

Execution of multi-billion-dollar funding and technical service agreements, including the $3.15 billion OML 13 and $876 million OML 65 deals that boosted production by up to 32% in key assets.

Acquisition of critical oil blocks such as OMLs 11, 24, 116, and 98, expanding NNPCL’s reserves and production footprint.

Development of strategic infrastructure, including the 614km Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, aimed at enhancing domestic gas utilization and electricity generation.

Expansion of NLNG’s production capacity through the signing of the NLNG Train 7 project, increasing output from 22 to 30 million tonnes per annum and attracting over $10 billion in foreign direct investment.

Debt recovery efforts, reclaiming over N80 billion and $45 million from gas off-takers and other partners.

Resolution of the Escravos Gas-to-Liquids (EGTL) cost dispute with Chevron, unlocking a $2 billion settlement expected to benefit the federal government over the next two decades.

Sustaining fuel supply and eliminating smuggling through “Operation White” and digital verification of fuel distribution channels.

The council emphasized that these achievements are a testament to Kyari’s reformist agenda and long-term vision for the NNPCL and the nation’s energy sector.

“Kyari’s record speaks for itself. His leadership ushered in transparency, efficiency, and significant revenue gains for the country,” the statement said. “Rather than hounding him with baseless allegations, Nigerians should celebrate a public servant who genuinely delivered value.”

The YYC urged all stakeholders to rise above politically-motivated distractions and to support leaders who have demonstrated capacity, integrity, and results.

Former senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District,Comrade Shehu Sani today wrote off the protest held by some groups in Abuja against former Group Chief Executive Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) ,as nothing, but sponsored project by some displeased or disgruntled oil interests .

According to him, most of the young guys he saw on the protest train , don’t actually know what they were protesting about, they just joined.

A group of protesters had on Tuesday stormed the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi to demand the prosecution of former Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.

The group Led by its convener, Kabir Matazu, had expressed disappointment that, despite President Bola Tinubu’s removal of Kyari and the entire NNPCL board on April 2, 2025, no steps have been taken to investigate the alleged corrupt practices during Kyari’s tenure.

But Shehu Sani in a reaction to the protest via his social media handles said: “I came across some protesters at the Federal Secretariat Abuja,raising placards against the ex NNPCL CEO Kyari. Most of the young guys there, don’t actually know what they were protesting about.They just joined.

“It’s clearly a sponsored project by some displeased or disgruntled oil interests against Kyari.”

The lamaker strongly believes that Kyari is clearly one of the GMD’s that has distinguished himself not only as a dynamic business administrator, innovative manager, technocrat , transparent and accountability advocate but shown great dexterity in his leadership style.

He however, warned against people being used to destroy reputation of good leaders who put their all while holding public office.

By Markus Oligari

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has extended its heartfelt commendation to the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his unwavering commitment to the development and progress of the state through the strategic partnership with the World Bank.

AYCF President General Yerima Shettima said the collaboration, which encompasses a remarkable portfolio of eight major projects worth a total of $885 million, represents a significant step forward in addressing critical developmental challenges faced by our communities.

Shettima recalled that during a recent courtesy visit by Mr. Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Governor Sani articulated a visionary roadmap aimed at enhancing the impact of these projects across various sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare.

“We applaud the governor’s recognition of the transformative role that the World Bank has played in our state, particularly through initiatives such as the Adolescent Girls’ for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, and the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Recovery Stimulus Programme (NG-CARES),” Shettima said.

Shettima averred that these projects have not only laid the groundwork for sustainable development but have also provided our youth with opportunities for empowerment and growth, adding that the governor’s commitment to expanding World Bank support into new areas, including the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) Project and the Resilient and Accessible Microfinance (RAM) Project, is a testament to his dedication to building a diversified and resilient economy for Kaduna State.

“As stakeholders in the future of Kaduna, we recognize the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the success of these initiatives,” he stated.

The AYCF urged all citizens to actively engage with and support the government’s efforts in implementing these projects, stressing that it is imperative that we work together to create an environment conducive for development, where the benefits of such investments can be felt by all, especially the most vulnerable among us.

“We also commend Mr. Ousmane Diagana for his recognition of Governor Sani’s strong leadership and the effectiveness of Kaduna’s collaboration with the World Bank. Such acknowledgment is a reflection of the potential that exists within our state when we harness the right partnerships and leadership.”

The AYCF said it stands firmly behind Governor Uba Sani in his mission to elevate Kaduna State to new heights. “We call upon all residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to join hands in fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity. Together, we can ensure that the benefits of these projects are maximized, leading to a brighter future for all citizens of Kaduna State,” he stressed.

ENDS

By Mike Odeh James

A prominent Northern Nigerian Christian advocacy group has publicly commended Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for sweeping governance reforms while appealing for clemency in the high-profile case of Sunday Jackson, a death row inmate whose conviction has drawn widespread scrutiny. 

In an open letter addressed to the governor, the Congress of Northern Nigerian Christians (CNNC) praised Fintiri’s administration for “transformative impact” in sectors including urban renewal, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The group specifically lauded his establishment of new traditional institutions such as the Second Class Emirates of Hoba, Madagali, Michika, and Fufore, as well as Third Class Chiefdoms in Gombi, Maiha, and Yungur. These moves, enacted under the *Adamawa Chiefs (Appointments and Deposition) Law, 2024*, were described as fulfilling “long-awaited hopes” for inclusion and equity in the state. 

However, the letter pivoted to an urgent appeal for Sunday Jackson, sentenced to death by the Supreme Court in a case the CNNC claims violates constitutional protections. Jackson, convicted of murder, maintains he acted in self-defense—a claim the group argues is supported by evidence overlooked in court proceedings. 

Citing *Sections 33(1) and 33(2)(a)* of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which enshrine the right to life and permit lethal force in self-defense against unlawful violence, the CNNC called on Fintiri to exercise his prerogative of mercy. “Sunday Jackson’s prolonged incarceration and death row status constitute a grave injustice,” the letter stated, noting that local and international organizations have rallied behind his cause. 

Elder Stephen Bankoji, the CNNC’s National President, emphasized the symbolic weight of clemency. “This act would reaffirm [the governor’s] commitment to justice and humanity, resonating far beyond Adamawa,” he wrote. 

The Supreme Court’s ruling, which upheld Jackson’s death sentence, has faced criticism from human rights advocates who argue Nigeria’s judicial system often fails to adequately consider self-defense claims in homicide cases. While the governor’s office has yet to respond publicly, observers speculate Fintiri’s decision could set a precedent for similar appeals. 

The CNNC’s dual message—celebrating governance strides while pressing for judicial mercy—highlights the complex interplay between policy achievements and human rights concerns in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.