Author Archives: News All Around

Geraldine Attah

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the nomination of former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, as Nigeria’s ambassador to an unspecified international mission, describing the development as a boost to the nation’s diplomatic profile.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja and signed by its Chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group said the nomination was a recognition of Yakubu’s “distinguished record of public service” and his “vast experience in global affairs,” which it argued would be invaluable in strengthening Nigeria’s engagement on the international stage.

Sulaiman noted that the former INEC chairman had earned national and international respect during his stewardship at the electoral body, where he championed reforms aimed at improving electoral transparency and deepening democratic processes.

He dismissed concerns raised in some quarters that Yakubu’s new appointment could compromise the independence of INEC, insisting such fears were “misguided and reckless.”

According to him, the neutrality of INEC is anchored on law, institutional safeguards, and multilayered oversight mechanisms—not on the post-service career of any individual.

“INEC’s integrity is not tied to the personal trajectory of any former official,” Sulaiman said. “It is a system strengthened by reforms since 2010, monitored by political parties, civil society organisations, and the media. Democracy rests on institutions, not personalities.”

The group further highlighted Yakubu’s career under four successive presidents—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—as evidence of his professionalism and non-partisan disposition.

It recalled that as Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) between 2007 and 2012, Yakubu initiated reforms that continue to shape the nation’s tertiary education sector. It also pointed to innovations introduced under his leadership during the 2023 general elections, which it said enabled opposition parties to record their highest number of elective positions in the country’s political history.

The Northern Awareness Network urged Nigerians to support the nomination, adding that effective diplomacy required individuals with proven administrative competence and an understanding of Nigeria’s governance architecture.

Sulaiman stressed that rather than question Yakubu’s nomination, Nigerians should focus on strengthening national institutions and reinforcing accountability across all sectors.

“This appointment is an opportunity to present Nigeria’s democratic values to the world with credibility,” he added. “We call on Nigerians to rally behind this development and remain committed to building strong, resilient institutions.”

The statement concluded with the group expressing confidence that Professor Yakubu would bring his “wealth of experience, integrity, and calm leadership” to the diplomatic assignment once confirmed.

ENDS

By Adiku Abah

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has dismissed concerns that the ambassadorial nomination of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, could compromise the commission’s independence and impartiality.

In a statement issued by its Convener, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the group described the fears as unfounded and politically motivated, insisting that Yakubu’s nomination should not be interpreted as an attempt by the Federal Government to weaken INEC.

Shettima said the commission’s structures and internal mechanisms are strong enough to guarantee its autonomy regardless of any political appointments involving its leadership. He added that INEC’s credibility is anchored on constitutional provisions, not individual office holders.

The NSCI urged Nigerians to resist what it called “needless speculation” and instead focus on strengthening democratic institutions. It further called on political actors to refrain from using sensitive national issues to sow distrust in the electoral system.

According to the group, Yakubu’s nomination reflects confidence in his service to the nation and should not be misconstrued as an effort to manipulate future elections.

By Elvina Kevin

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in what it described as a growing campaign of calumny against the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammad Bello Matawalle, warning that the development could undermine security and political stability in the North.

In a statement issued by its chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group alleged that following the recent resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, certain political interests had intensified efforts to discredit Matawalle.

NAN claimed that the attacks were part of a wider political strategy purportedly aimed at weakening President Tinubu’s support base in the North ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to the organisation, intelligence it gathered suggested that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, was linked to activities allegedly intended to stir public unrest and mobilise protests against the minister. The group said such actions could heighten tensions in the already fragile security environment in the North-West.

“These machinations are clearly designed to destabilise the region and erode the President’s strong support base,” the statement read. “The President must be wary of those seeking to weaken his administration through orchestrated attacks on loyal allies like Matawalle.”

The group further drew parallels between current security concerns in Kebbi State and the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls in Borno State, warning that any missteps in managing the situation could have far-reaching political consequences.

It argued that Minister Matawalle had demonstrated firm commitment to improving security and had earned the trust of many northern communities.

“Northern Nigeria stands united in appreciating Matawalle’s efforts. His initiatives have yielded tangible results, and attempts to tarnish his image are distractions from the real issues,” NAN stated.

The group urged President Tinubu to reaffirm his confidence in the minister, stressing that sidelining him would amount to a strategic error in the buildup to the next general election.

NAN also called for a public denouncement of what it described as “baseless attacks” against the Defence Minister, insisting that Matawalle remained a key pillar in sustaining political cohesion and public confidence in the North.

ENDS

By Musa Luka

The Northern Elders Progressive Group has dismissed renewed calls for the resignation of the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, describing the criticisms as “mischievous, exaggerated, and politically driven.”

Addressing journalists on Monday, the Coordinator of the group, Yusuf Abubakar, said recent media attacks targeting the minister were part of a broader political manoeuvring within the country’s public space, especially as federal security operations continue to record gains nationwide.

Abubakar noted that some commentators attempted to link persistent insecurity in parts of the North-West to alleged shortcomings within the Ministry of Defence. He argued that such claims ignore the complex nature of Nigeria’s security challenges and the significant progress recorded under the current administration.

He emphasised that since assuming office, Matawalle has been instrumental to a series of reforms aimed at revamping defence operations, modernising military capabilities, and strengthening collaboration among security agencies. According to him, the minister’s role in enhancing joint operations among the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and intelligence services has been central to improving counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts nationwide.

Abubakar cited the successful rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Maga, Kebbi State — coordinated under the minister’s supervision — as one of several recent proofs of improved operational synergy. He said similar breakthroughs have been recorded in the North-East, where more insurgents have surrendered, and in the North-Central, where kidnapping syndicates along major highways in Niger, Kogi, and Kwara states have been disrupted.

In the South-South, he noted that intensified maritime patrols have curbed oil theft and protected critical national assets, while operations in the South-East continue to target violent criminal networks.

“Focusing on the North-West, a region previously ravaged by banditry,” Abubakar added, “federal military offensives have increased under Matawalle’s watch.” He pointed to coordinated airstrikes, dismantling of bandit camps, and the cutting off of supply routes as evidence of renewed federal commitment.

He said the minister has also prioritised troop welfare by supporting improved allowances, enhanced logistics, and the deployment of new surveillance technologies such as tactical drones and rapid-response vehicles.

“Many abandoned communities have been restored, farmers are gradually returning to their lands, and intelligence-sharing between local communities and security agencies has improved significantly,” Abubakar stated.

He attributed rising attacks on the minister to political power tussles within the North-West, insisting that critics should focus on the achievements recorded rather than politicising national security.

Abubakar commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Matawalle and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to key security positions, describing both men as experienced and capable.

“The President who appointed them understands their capacity. Hon. Bello Matawalle remains a central figure in the federal government’s security architecture. His efforts are visible across all regions,” he said.

The group urged politicians and commentators to avoid inflaming public discourse with “unfounded” criticisms, warning that such narratives could undermine ongoing national security operations.

“As Nigeria continues to confront diverse security threats, what is needed is collaboration, not politicisation,” Abubakar added.

Christian and Muslim leaders in the North, under the umbrella of the Interfaith Unity Forum, have commended Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari for his sustained efforts toward promoting peace, unity and sustainable development across the region.

The leaders praised the former Zamfara State Governor for convening the recently well-attended Yari Roundtable for Interreligious Harmony held in Abuja and Kaduna, which brought together prominent clerics from both faiths to chart a new course for peaceful coexistence.

In a joint message signed by the co-chairs and secretaries — Pastor Eziekel Jeremiah Garba, Sheikh Muhammad Sabiu, Sheikh Nafiu Salman and Evangelist Musa Simon — the forum said Senator Yari deserved recognition for “restoring interreligious harmony among Christians and Muslims in the North.” They noted that the platform he created was helping to rebuild trust and strengthen communal bonds.

“We have repeatedly told those who care to listen that there is no alternative to peaceful coexistence and unity,” the leaders stated. “We should never allow ourselves to be divided on the grounds of tribe or religion.”

They lamented that some political office holders were more interested in power than in uniting the people, accusing them of exploiting ethnic and religious sentiments for political gain.

The leaders, therefore, urged other politicians — especially those currently in office — to emulate Senator Yari’s bold initiative in championing dialogue and promoting peace.

“Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari has taken a commendable step to ensure that peace and unity are restored in the North. We call on all leaders to follow this example for the progress of our region and the country at large,” they added.

The Northern Forum for Good Governance has appealed to Northern Senators to support and ratify the nomination of Mr. Reno Omokri as one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambassadorial nominees.

In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Dr. Musa Mohammed ,the group said Omokri has demonstrated “the capacity to lead and represent Nigeria effectively at any level,” adding that his nomination is a welcome development deserving of national support.

President Tinubu recently forwarded 32 ambassadorial nominees— including Omokri — to the Senate for confirmation, just days after sending an initial list of three names. However, sources within the National Assembly revealed that the Senate is currently grappling with internal disagreements, largely triggered by Omokri’s inclusion on the list.

Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and a prominent social media commentator, had in the past been critical of President Tinubu, including allegations that he once referred to the President as a “drug baron.” These past comments have reportedly stirred controversy within Senate circles as lawmakers debate his suitability.

But the Northern Forum for Good Governance insists that ambassadorial appointments should be based solely on merit, competence, and the capacity to deliver, not on sentiments or past political disagreements.

“The issues of capacity and performance should be the yardstick for appointments, not flippant matters or emotional considerations,” the group stated.

The Forum urged Northern Senators to prioritize national cohesion and development by supporting Omokri’s confirmation. It argued that President Tinubu’s decision to nominate him despite previous criticisms shows statesmanship and an ability to recognize talent above personal differences.

“Tinubu must have seen a unique side of him despite his past attacks, and that is what is most important from a good leader,” the statement added.

The Senate is expected to begin screening the nominees in the coming days.

Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, the Director General of Energy Commission Of Nigeria has been honoured with an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Engineering (D.Eng., Honoris Causa
by the Confluence University of Science and Technology .

The honour was conferred on him by the reputable institution during its maiden joint convocation ceremony; a celebration of academic excellence that reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development through science, technology, and innovation.

Presenting the award to Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, in the presence of former Governor Yahaya Bello, the University Chancellor, and the Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, Kogi state governor, Usman Ododo recognized Dr. Abdullahi’s outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s energy sector and his pioneering work in renewable energy solutions.

Dr. Abdullahi, accompanied by directors and staff of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, expressed profound appreciation for the honour.

This is as he also reaffirmed his commitment to advancing technology and innovation, particularly in renewable energy, and pledged to strengthen partnerships that support sustainable development across the country.

Speaking Dr Mustapha Abdullahi said, ‘ I am deeply honoured to receive an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Engineering (D.Eng., Honoris Causa) from Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, during its maiden joint convocation ceremony.

‘This recognition inspires me to continue advancing Nigeria’s energy sector and promoting sustainable development through science, technology, and innovation.

“I thank Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, the University Chancellor, and the Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, for this esteemed award.

‘Together with my directors at the Energy Commission of Nigeria, I remain committed to driving technology and innovation, particularly in renewable energy, and strengthening partnerships that create lasting impact across our nation.

The Yari Roundtable for Inter-Religious Harmony has scheduled Thursday, December 4, for another high-level interfaith peace parley aimed at strengthening unity and understanding among Christian and Muslim stakeholders in Plateau and Kano States.

The planned dialogue follows the organisation’s recently concluded and widely commended interfaith engagement in Abuja, where religious leaders from across the North explored collaborative approaches to mitigating tensions and fostering a culture of mutual respect.

In a statement issued on Monday, the organisers said the forthcoming summit would bring together prominent Islamic and Christian clerics, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, youth representatives and key community influencers from both states.

According to the statement signed by Dr. Mohammed Kassim, the initiative seeks to consolidate ongoing conversations on peaceful coexistence, enhance inter-religious cooperation, and build sustainable frameworks for conflict prevention across northern communities.

“The Yari Roundtable has created a platform for honest dialogue, where leaders can collectively examine root causes of conflicts and articulate actionable solutions that promote lasting peace,” the statement read.

The parley is expected to review recent communal challenges and outline strategies for strengthening trust between various faith-based groups, particularly in communities that have experienced recurrent violence.

The organisers stressed that the event aligns with the Roundtable’s broader mission of promoting unity, tolerance and harmony across the North. They expressed confidence that the Plateau–Kano peace dialogue would contribute meaningfully to ongoing peacebuilding efforts and reinforce the importance of partnerships among religious bodies.

At the end of the meeting, participants are expected to issue a joint communiqué outlining resolutions and commitments to deepen interfaith collaboration and long-term peace initiatives.

By Musa Maye

Matawalle debunks reports that he claimed Zamfara security won’t work without him

The Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, has dissociated himself from a report circulating on social media, claiming he said “Zamfara security initiative wouldn’t work without him.”

Matawall described the reports as maliciously crafted to tarnish his good reputation and efforts, and undermine the Federal Government’s efforts at tackling the security challenges facing the nation.

He said at no time did he grant any such interview, noting, however, that he had taken Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to task over his poor strategy and non-cooperation with the Federal Government on mechanism for tacking the security challenges.

Matawalle, who had earlier served as Zamfara governor for four years before his present ministerial appointment, noted that Governor Lawal’s attitude of not carrying him and other stakeholders along in his arrangements for tackling the state’s security situation that has become a national issue is condemnable.

He said meeting with the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, alone and neglecting him who is a son of the soil and a minister from the state also saddled with defence matters, is regrettable.

“Everything should not be politicised. This is the time all hands should be on deck to tackle the security problems,” Matawalle said.

He also condemned the governor for authorizing that security operatives on the ground in Zamfara move to tackle the security threat without coordinating with Abuja, a situation he described as a major drawback in the process.

He described the story as a sponsored mischief by certain group of people who were out to use all other avenues to create political tension and instability in Zamfara State.

“Premium Times as a respected medium ought to have clarified from Matawalle or his media aides his statement on the matter in order to give accurate information to the public.

“The media should not be used as tools of political mischief and mudslinging because of differences in political leanings.

“As a stakeholder in the management of security in the nation, there is no reason for him to want to sabotage the efforts of any state governor, talk less of his own state where the security challenges have become unmanageable due to poor governance,” Matawalle added.

According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to securing communities and ensuring residents return safely to abandoned farmlands, schools and homes.

He said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is fully committed to addressing the country’s problems and no political collusion