Category Archives: Uncategorized

By Ojo Shola

The Executive Director of Retail and Digital Business at Wema Bank, Tunde Mabawonku, on Tuesday described Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the future of Nigeria, hence the need for the right investment in it.

The bank executive spoke while remarking on the launch of an initiative to establish a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centre in Nigeria, with the groundbreaking event happening in Kagarko, Kagarko Local Government area of Kaduna State.

He said, his financial outfit, in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), decided to partner in putting the centre in place as a way of bringing AI hub to young people at the community level.

According to Mabawonku, “The goal was to create a “skillnovate” platform that enables young people to acquire ICT skills, digital skills, and social skills, ultimately adding income to them”.

Mabawonku emphasized that providing the required resources for basic coding and understanding of AI was crucial to making Nigeria an AI hub.

“Ours is to create what we call “skill novate” to empower young people and enable them to ICT skills, digital skills and social skills, and then it adds income to them.

“When people come to the NYSC for the national service, they are largely unsure of what to do within and outside the service.

“So the thinking is that for that one year or thereabouts they will spend during the national service, can they have a centre like this where they can upgrade themselves digitally so by the end of the service, they can do a lot on their own.

“So we are in partnership with the NYSC to create that platform for development for Nigerian youths.

“The best approach to making the country an AI hub is to provide the required resources for the basic coding and basic understanding of AI.

“These days, you don’t need to be a computer guru to learn AI. They are human-created tools that one can just listen to and learn greatly.

“So, we are going to equip the centre and subsequent ones with the best technology so that the young people can learn and start doing things with AI as seen in countries like China and Japan, among others.

“You can see on your social media handles how the service providers are imbuing AI in them.

“The idea of putting this facility here in Kagarko and not Kaduna is that we have noticed that when we are planning development, we always abandon the hinterlands.

“Everybody is concentrating in State capitals. So, working with the NYSC, we chose this area so we can bring the youths around together to learn and fortunately, the location is close to Abuja and Kaduna”, he added.

Tired of waiting for their entitlements to be paid after being sacked in 2017, the Kaduna State Illegally Disengaged Teachers Forum has publicly condemned former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s administration for its actions. The teachers, who were dismissed after allegedly failing a competency test, claim the test was unfair and designed to reduce the workforce.

According to the teachers, God will punish El-Rufai for making them suffer untold hardship over the past seven years without paying their entitlements. They also expressed happiness that El-Rufai is already facing the consequences of his actions.

The El-Rufai-led government had sacked 21,000 out of 30,000 primary school teachers who failed the competency test. However, the State Coordinator of KSIDF, Comrade Aminu Maitama, revealed that the test was not conducted in good faith. Maitama personally scored 70% on the test but was still sacked, leading him to question the motives behind the test.

Maitama accused El-Rufai’s administration of using the test as a pretext to reduce the number of teachers and cut costs, without considering the impact on education in the state.

The teachers have appealed to Governor Uba Sani to reconsider their case and pay their entitlements. They also commended Governor Sani for releasing N548 million in withheld funds to the Nigerian Union of Teachers Endwell scheme. Additionally, they requested another competency test to assess their eligibility for reinstatement.

The Kaduna State Illegally Disengaged Teachers Forum, comprising 21,000 primary school teachers sacked in 2017, has publicly condemned former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s administration for withholding their entitlements. The teachers, who were dismissed after allegedly failing a competency test, claim the test was unfair and designed to reduce the number of teachers employed by the state government [1).

At a press conference held at Arewa House Conference, State Coordinator Comrade Aminu Maitama revealed that he personally scored 70% on the competency test, yet was still sacked. Maitama accused El-Rufai’s administration of using the test as a pretext to cut costs and reduce the workforce, without regard for the impact on education in the state.

The teachers expressed gratitude to Governor Uba Sani for releasing N548 million in withheld funds to the Nigerian Union of Teachers Endwell scheme. However, they also appealed to Governor Sani to revisit their case and consider paying their outstanding entitlements. The teachers requested another competency test to assess their eligibility for reinstatement.

The Kaduna State Illegally Disengaged Teachers Forum’s public outcry highlights the ongoing struggles of teachers in Kaduna State and their quest for fair treatment and compensation.

By Musa Tanimu

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has condemned the abduction of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, President of the Afenifere Youth Council, and demanded his immediate release by the kidnappers.

AYCF in a statement by its President General, Yerima Shettima, averred that since the forcible seizure on Monday, February 17, 2025, of the Afenifere Youth President, he has remained in captivity, a situation he described as worrisome.

According to Shettima, more worrisome is the fact that the kidnappers are demanding an exorbitant ransom of ₦100 million, a situation he said is compounded by the kidnappers’ ultimatum, threatening to take his life if their demands are not met.

“The recent escalation in the kidnappers’ demands, which now includes the provision of two Keke NAPEP vehicles, alongside a menacing deadline set for Tuesday, at 3 PM, underscores the urgent need for immediate action.

“The threat to execute Prince Ojajuni if these demands are not met is not just a reflection of the lawlessness that has gripped our nation, but also a stark reminder of the fragility of life in the face of greed and desperation.

He posited that Prince Ojajuni is not merely a name but a beacon of hope and a symbol of the aspirations of our youth, adding that his unwavering commitment to championing the cause of the Yoruba people has resonated deeply within our communities.

“His abduction represents not only a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a grievous affront to the collective conscience of our race and the nation as a whole. It is a stark reminder of the challenges our society faces in safeguarding the lives and futures of our youth.

“The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, representing the interests and voices of the northern youth, unequivocally condemns this act of violence and lawlessness. We recognize that the abduction of Prince Ojajuni is part of a larger crisis that has plagued our nation, where kidnappings for ransom have become an all-too-common occurrence. This trend is not merely a regional issue; it is a national emergency that demands the immediate and concerted efforts of all levels of government.

“In light of this dire situation, we call upon the Federal Government and all relevant state authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safe release of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni”.

The Arewa youth leader said it is imperative that security agencies are mobilized to locate and rescue Prince Ojajuni without delay, stressing that the Federal Government must ensure that law enforcement agencies are adequately equipped and empowered to address the rising tide of kidnapping and violence in our society.

He further urged the Federal Government to collaborate with state governments, local communities, and civil society organizations to create a robust framework for combating kidnapping and improving the overall security situation in the country.

“Engaging with community leaders, youth organizations, and other stakeholders is essential to understanding the root causes of this crisis. A dialogue that prioritizes the safety and aspirations of our youth will foster a more secure environment for all.

“The government must launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about safety measures and encourage community vigilance. Empowering citizens with knowledge is a crucial step in combating the menace of kidnapping.

“We call for the immediate review and strengthening of existing laws regarding kidnapping and ransom. The legal framework must reflect the seriousness of these crimes and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable”.

In the present situation, Shettima said the AYCF stands in solidarity with the Afenifere Youth Council and all those advocating for the safe return of Prince Ojajuni while imploring all Nigerians to unite in this critical moment, transcending ethnic and regional divides to demand justice and security for our people.

He reiterated the urgent plea for the safe release of Prince Ojajuni, “Let us not allow fear and despair to dictate our future; instead, let us rise together as a nation, resolute in our commitment to justice, safety, and the well-being of our youth. Time is of the essence. We call upon everyone to act swiftly and decisively. The life of Prince Ojajuni hangs in the balance, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure his safe return” he stressed.

Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group again took a swipe at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Senator Lawal Adamu after accusing Kaduna State Governor ,Mal Uba Sani of alleged sabotage.

According to the group,who is sabotaging who now,when records of performance over the past 18 months show that the party’s Senator has been unable to stand to speak on the floor of the Senate and sponsor bills that will help cushion effects of hardship in the State?

Recalled that the Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on Media and Communication, Mr Yusuf Dingyadi in a Statement did claim the state government refused to distribute learning and teaching materials procured by Senator Adamu.

According to the PDP statement, the move is aimed at discrediting Senator Adamu, who has been working to improve education in the state.

But in a swift reaction to the statement by PDP , Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group queried the rational behind a statement from a party when its representative in the Senate has failed to deliver on campaign promises.

The group in the statement signed by the Secretary, Comrade Bello Bashir Mohammed, said it is unfortunate that a dead opposition party such as PDP could make such sweeping statement in defence of Mr LA ,who since he came on board ,he has no any serious projects to show.

The statement reads : ” Mr LA as he is popularly called and his cohort cannot be hiding under his inability to perform and bring any tangible project to the table to stirr up sympathy from the public who already know he has failed and would be summarily voted out come 2027 .

“How dare the PDP compare Governor Uba Sani’e days in the Senate with that of a lawmaker adjudge by his constituents as complete failure.

“All other two Senators and members of House of Representatives are doing well to the extent that one of PDP senators was able to attract a University to Southern Kaduna with the backing of Governor Uba Sani and the President.

“We make bold to say if senator Lawal has done anything tangible,the Governor and President we know, will come out openly to support him and even go extra miles to ensure he succeeds .

“We have decided to speak out in defence of Governor Uba Sani to avoid misrepresentation of facts . PDP and her failed lawmaker cannot make baseless allegations without getting reaction from our group that has statistics of performance of all political office holders in the State.”

The group however, warned PDP against dragging Governor Uba Sani into the weakness and failure of her lawmaker,Mr LA.

By Emeka Nwosu, Abuja

The national leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, of deliberately undermining the efforts of Senator Lawal Adamu (Sen LA), who represents Kaduna Central and serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.

The party criticized the governor for allegedly halting the distribution of learning and teaching materials procured by the senator, claiming it was an attempt to tarnish his reputation. In a statement issued by Yusuf Dingyadi, Senior Special Assistant to the PDP National Chairman on Media and Communication, the party urged the state government to set aside political differences and prioritize the welfare of Kaduna residents.

According to Dingyadi, the APC-led state government has refused to distribute essential educational materials, including textbooks and notebooks, to primary and junior secondary schools in the senator’s constituency. “The materials, which were meant to enhance learning and improve the quality of education at primary and junior secondary levels, have been locked away in storage instead of reaching the intended beneficiaries,” Dingyadi alleged.

He further claimed that specific locations, such as LEA Malali Road and LEA Maiduguri Road, were instructed not to distribute the items. “It is expected that the state government, regardless of party affiliation, would collaborate with other elected representatives to improve the lives of Kaduna citizens,” he said.

Dingyadi also accused the APC of employing political propagandists to spread misinformation about Senator LA’s achievements. “They are using radio and social media platforms to claim that Senator LA has done nothing, forgetting that his two years in office have been more impactful than Uba Sani’s four years as a senator. During his tenure in the Senate, Uba Sani focused on passing bills that had little effect on the people,” he stated.

The PDP spokesperson further accused Governor Sani of attempting to impress President Bola Tinubu in anticipation of the 2027 elections rather than focusing on governance. “You cannot make progress by continuously attacking the PDP. You cannot manipulate our political success by sponsoring thugs and propagandists to discredit our performing legislators or by staging political defections in a choreographed manner,” Dingyadi said.

He also warned Governor Sani against relying on political advisers he described as “straying horses” who are liabilities rather than assets. “Our elected PDP members are actively delivering on their mandates and performing better than their APC counterparts. No serious northerner will campaign for APC in the region. Some politicians are only pretending to support the party to secure personal gains,” he concluded.

Aisha Yesufu, a prominent Nigerian activist and convener of the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) movement, has come under scrutiny after allegations surfaced that she received funds from USAID to sponsor Boko Haram insurgents. The Forum for Peace and Tranquility in Nigeria (FPTN) has called on the federal government to investigate Yesufu’s source of funding, citing concerns over her involvement in a USAID-backed project aimed at unseating former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The controversy surrounding Yesufu’s funding has been fueled by reports that USA

Angry at his non performance and mute mode in National Assembly, Kaduna Good Governance Monitoring Group (KGGMG) has described the Senator representing Kaduna Central , Senator Lawal Adamu as the “worst lawmaker ever elected in Kaduna History”.

According to group, the anger was provoked by failure on side of the lawmaker to stand up on the floor of Senate to speak on plethora of issues,such as insecurity; economic hardship affecting progress and development of the state.

“We are perturbed that for almost two years in the Senate, Senator Lawal Adamu fondly called ‘Mr LA’ has failed to adequately represent the interests of his constituents, advocate for policies, and helping individuals navigate federal agencies and programs. “it stressed .

The group,which stated this in a Statement signed by the Coordinator, Bagudu Ibn Mohammed,said it was surprise when several groups from the stated had expressed similar views in the past .

The group recounted how sometimes in 2024, the Kaduna Elders Forum, expressed displeasure over his non performance demanded the recall of Senator Lawal Adamu Usman. It also made reference to the Elders Forum said in the history of Senatorial representation in the state, no elected lawmaker has performed beyond expectation like the incumbent senator.

The statement further reads : In similar manner, we remembered when the Kaduna Peace and Tranquility Forum (KPTF) threatened to mobilize for his recall from the National Assembly for alleged non-performance.

“Mr Lawal Adamu in our view is the worst senator ever by the people since return to democracy in 1999.

“It unfortunate that 28 months after he inaugurated as a lawmaker in the National Assembly, the promises he made are yet to fulfilled .

” The big question is ,How do you expect the people to consider someone who doesn’t stand up to speak; a lawmaker who does not frequently visit his seven local governments and has not brought anything tangible to the State as a result of his legislation to voter in 2027?”

Senator Shehu Sani, a former senator representing Kaduna Central District and President of the Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria (CRCN), has been recognized as the “Activist of the Year” alongside other notable Nigerians during the seventh anniversary of The Reporter’s Magazine in Abuja.

The awards, presented to 18 distinguished Nigerians, aimed to celebrate outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields and are changing the narrative in their own way. The recognition was based on exemplary performance, hard work, and integrity.

Mallam Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, received the Trailblazer in Energy Leadership award. Dr Dikko Umar Radda, Governor of Katsina State, was honored as Governor of the Year – Security. Malam Umar Namadi Danmodi, Governor of Jigawa State, received the Governor of the Year (Education) award. Gen Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff Defence, was recognized as the Outstanding General of the Year. Major Hamza Al-Mustapha Rtd, Intelligence and Security Expert, received the Advocate for Stability award.

Mr Olanipekun Olukayode, Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, was honored as the Best Impactful Anti-Corruption Crusader. Senator Abubakar Kyari, Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, received the Agricultural Sector Reformer of the Year award.

Other awardees included businessmen, philanthropists, and media personalities. DR ABUBAKAR DANTSOHO, MD/CEO, received the Man of the Year Award. Muazzam Mairawani, Chairman of MSM Group of Companies Abuja, Nigeria, was honored as the Young Investor of the Year. Mr Sadiq Mele Kyari, Chief Executive Officer of Syari Bespoke Apparels Abuja, received the Fashionpreneur of the Year award.

Mrs Murjanatu Ringim, Founder of Voice of Bazawara Initiative Kaduna State, was recognized as the Philanthropist of the Year. Barrister Sa’adat Yunusa Muhammad, Special Adviser on Poverty Reduction Office of the Governor, Sokoto State, received the Empowerment Trailblazer award. Mr James Umeh, Chairman of The Whistler Newspaper, Abuja, was honored as the Philanthropist of the Year.

Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited was honored as the African Energy Company of the Year. Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer NNPC Limited, received the Corporate Communication Icon award.

By Mike Odeh James

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a revered nationalist and leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization.

In a statement jointly signed by Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark (SMBLF Leader), Sen. Azuta-Nbata (Ohaneze President General), Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Igali (PANDEF President General), Dr. Pogu Bitrus (Middle Belt Forum President), and Barr. John Nnia Nwodo (Coordinator), the forum described Adebanjo’s death as the end of an era, leaving a profound void in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

The statement extended condolences to Adebanjo’s immediate family, the Yoruba nation, and the entire country, describing him as a beacon of integrity, justice, and unwavering commitment to democracy.

“Chief Adebanjo dedicated his life to the advancement of Nigeria, advocating for equity, fairness, and good governance. Unlike many of his contemporaries who wavered in their convictions, he remained resolute in his belief that Nigeria could only thrive on the foundation of true federalism and justice for all ethnic groups,” the leaders said.

A lifelong disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Adebanjo remained steadfast in his progressive ideals throughout Nigeria’s political transitions. One of his most courageous moments in recent history was his support for the Southeast’s claim to the presidency in the 2023 elections. Despite having a Yoruba candidate in the race, he argued that the Igbo deserved a turn at leadership, demonstrating his commitment to fairness and national unity.

Beyond politics, Adebanjo was a mentor and father figure to many, playing a crucial role in shaping the SMBLF’s positions on national issues. The forum described his wisdom and counsel as “invaluable” and noted that his absence would be deeply felt.

Born in 1928, Adebanjo’s life was intertwined with Nigeria’s history, from the fight for independence to the struggles against military rule and the quest for democracy. Despite facing persecution, detentions, and threats, he remained resolute in his principles.

“As we bid farewell to this titan of justice and democracy, we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. May the Almighty grant his family, the Yoruba people, and Nigeria the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the statement concluded.

Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s legacy as a fearless advocate for democracy and equity is expected to inspire future generations in Nigeria’s quest for true federalism and good governance.