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Kaduna State joined the global campaign against gender-based violence with a strong focus on technology-facilitated abuse as the Centre for Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV) led a community sensitisation walk in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area, as part of activities marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

The 16 Days of Activism, observed globally from November 25 to December 10, continues to serve as a rallying point for renewed commitment toward eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls both offline and in the rapidly expanding digital space.

The Kaduna community walk reflects a growing recognition that as technology evolves, advocacy and protection mechanisms must also adapt to confront emerging forms of abuse.

Leading the advocacy was the Founder of CERSDOV, Professor Hauwa’u H. Yusuf, who disclosed that the campaign was aimed at drawing public attention to the growing dangers of technology-enabled gender-based violence, including cyberstalking, online harassment, image-based abuse, and other digital violations.

According to her, the walk was designed not just as a symbolic action but as a direct community engagement effort to educate residents on how digital tools are increasingly being used to perpetrate abuse and how such acts can be prevented.

Professor Hauwa’u noted that the initiative was carried out in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and supported by key partners including the International Centre for Advocacy (ICA), e-CAPH, Babajo Foundation, and the Nigerian Correctional Service.

“As we walk through this community, we are carrying critical information to enlighten the people on the dangers of technologically facilitated gender-based violence. We want this menace to end, and we are committed to putting in all our strength to ensure that it does,” she said.

Residents were engaged with awareness materials and interactive education on digital safety, responsible technology use, and reporting channels for victims of online and offline abuse.

The presence of correctional services officers further reinforced the legal consequences of gender-based violence.

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement (NSNCM), a coalition of 598 registered associations across the 19 Northern states and Northern communities in the 17 Southern states, has declared firm support for the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to retain him in office in the interest of national security.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the National President of the movement, Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, said the organization—one of the largest socio-political coalitions in the region—convened the briefing to commend recent security appointments by the President and to restate the importance of continuity within the defence leadership.

Dr. Aliyu applauded President Tinubu for appointing General Christopher Gwabin Musa as the new Minister of Defence, describing him as a “detribalized, highly accomplished and patriotic military leader.” He said Musa’s experience and national outlook have inspired fresh confidence among Nigerians.

He also commended the former Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who resigned on health grounds, noting that his dedication and achievements remain appreciated.

The movement, however, devoted much of its statement to defending Dr. Matawalle against what it described as politically motivated calls for his removal.

According to Dr. Aliyu, Dr. Matawalle has demonstrated “genuine commitment, responsiveness and visible results” both as Governor of Zamfara State and as Minister of State for Defence. He cited key achievements, including the rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State, the strengthening of multi-agency intelligence-sharing structures, and advocacy for improved military funding and modernization.

He recalled Matawalle’s efforts as Governor between 2019 and 2023, during which he confronted severe banditry through a mix of community dialogue, intelligence-driven operations and enforcement. His Peace and Reconciliation Initiative, the establishment of Community Protection Guards, and coordination with security agencies reportedly contributed to reopening closed roads, reviving farming activities and reducing attacks in affected communities.

Dr. Aliyu dismissed recent calls for Matawalle’s removal as “political resentment” from long-standing adversaries uncomfortable with his loyalty to President Tinubu and contributions to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He clarified that defence ministers do not command troops, as operational control rests with the service chiefs under the constitutional authority of the President. Rather, ministers provide policy direction, administrative coordination and strategic guidance. He added that the law does not require the minister to be a serving or retired military officer, emphasizing that competence and integrity remain the key criteria.

Highlighting recent gains in civil-military relations, community intelligence flow and stakeholder engagement, the NSNCM argued that removing Matawalle at this time would disrupt emerging progress in ongoing security reforms.

“At this critical point in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity, continuity is essential,” Dr. Aliyu said. “The synergy between the Minister of Defence and the Minister of State for Defence is beginning to yield results, and the nation needs leadership stability to consolidate these gains.”

He urged President Tinubu to disregard “mischief makers and politically motivated distractors” seeking to undermine Matawalle, noting that the group’s 598 affiliate associations are committed to mobilizing support for peace, unity and cooperation with security agencies nationwide.

Dr. Aliyu reaffirmed the movement’s pledge to contribute to grassroots intelligence gathering, community sensitization and national stability.

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.