Gideon Jock Marks Children’s Day with Message of Hope, Responsibility, and Reconciliation

Bomba Dauda

As children across Nigeria mark the annual Children’s Day celebration, Hon. (Dr.) Gideon Jock has extended a heartfelt message to the younger generation, urging them to remain hopeful and resilient in the face of present-day challenges.

In a moving address titled “Happy Children’s Day, Our Leaders of Tomorrow”, the respected community leader and advocate used the occasion to not only celebrate the youth but to acknowledge the critical role of parents, guardians, teachers, and caregivers in shaping future generations.

“You are the light of tomorrow—the future leaders, innovators, and builders of a greater nation,” he said in his address to children across the communities. “Today, we celebrate your innocence, your strength, your dreams, and the incredible potential you carry within you.”

Encouraging children to hold on to faith and hard work, Hon. Jock emphasized that success lies in resilience, values, and self-belief. He reminded them that though Nigeria faces challenges, their dreams remain valid and achievable.

In a rare show of humility and reflection, Jock extended an apology on behalf of leaders and elders to the younger generation. He admitted that mistakes have been made—politically, administratively, and morally—that may have impacted the lives of children in unseen ways.

“To our dear children, we ask something deeply important: forgiveness,” he said. “Forgive us, your parents, elders, and leaders, for any mistake we have made. Some of us already know that we have erred in leadership, direction, and vision.”

He called on all adults—parents, guardians, teachers, and caregivers—not to tire in their roles, describing them as “nation-builders in their own right,” charged with instilling love, integrity, and discipline in the younger generation.

The address ended with a prayer and blessing: “May you grow in wisdom, in peace, and in purpose. May you rise to become honourable stewards of justice, unity, peace, and prosperity for generations to come.”

Jock, who signed off simply as “A Father,” also extended special greetings to children of Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State, and Nigeria at large, reaffirming his commitment to a better future for all.

As Children’s Day is observed nationwide, Jock’s message stands out as a sobering call to reflection, responsibility, and renewed hope.

ANTI-TINUBU COALITION, COUNT US OUT

The authentic National Executive Committee of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, led by Chief (Engr.) Wole Adesina, has taken notice of two concerning developments within the party in the recent time.

Firstly, the influx of some aggrieved politicians in desperate coalition to “send President Bola Ahmed Tinubu back to Lagos” without showcasing any clear cut alternative agenda for Nigeria’s transformation.

Secondly, the on going illegal replacement of legally constituted SDP executives in various states by the Coalition group, in conspiracy with a faction of the party.

The SDP had experienced similar influx of aggrieved intruders in to the party, notably in 2019 when a group of defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP led by Prof. Jerry Gana joined the party and began a plot to hijack the National Executive Committee.

The betrayal of the SDP leadership led to the unceremonious resignation of the then National Chairman of the party, Oba Olu Falae, plunging the party in to leadership tussle which culminated in to the on going legal fireworks.

While the authentic SDP National Executive Committee now led by Chief Adesina draws its legitimacy from being the direct offshoot of Oba Olu Falae led National Executive Committee that received the the PDP defectors in to the party, the second faction, now being led by Shehu Gabam relies on a wrongly procured INEC recognition that has remained a subject of litigation since 2019.

Flowing from above, the SDP National Executive Committee unequivocally states that the party is not for sale or lease to any group, and will not be part of any anti-government plots or coalition that lacks a clear alternative agenda for Nigeria’s transformation.

SDP will continue to engage the government constructively and hold it accountable, but will not join of any self centered coalition aimed at derailing the government of the day and denying Nigerians the benefits of their voting in the 2023 presidential election.

CALL TO ACTION

We call on SDP leaders at all levels to resist any attempt to usurp their leadership and report such actions to the appropriate authorities, while leaving the party’s doors open for genuinely intentioned new members.

Members and supporters are encouraged to stay calm and await further briefings on the true state of things in the party, while efforts to return INEC recognition to the authentic National Executive Committee elected by them is intensified and brought to a successful end.

E-Signed

Alfa Mohammed Esq,
National Publicity Secretary.
26th/5/2025.

Stop Paying Groups To Defend You, Go And Defend Your Actions To Gov Bala Muhammad, Kauran Daular Usmaniyya.

Following the recent stories sponsored by disgruntled Rtd AIG Ahmad AbdurRahman against his former aide. Detective Abdullahi Ishaq Jibrin in his response to the purported and malicious story published through a paid blogger and the so-called civil society group. Abdullahi advised AbdurRahman, Rtd to respond to the allegations he is facing with the Bauchi State Government rather than using a desperate and paid civil society group who cannot speak out for their people in Bauchi State to defend him. He dared the Bauchi Chief Security Adviser to an open interview in one of TV stations in the country to unravel the truth of what happened in both EFCC and the Bauchi State Government House. Abdullahi stated that AbdurRahman is a serial and pathological liar hiding under the guise of religion to cover his wrongdoings.

So from all indication history is repeating itself from the ordeal Abdullahi Ishaq passed through then in the EFCC not knowing that his boss AbdurRahman was the one masterminding and sabotaging his progress and efforts just what is happening now in the Bauchi government house, he added.

That he was two years old in EFCC before him, AbdurRahman was brought in by Mrs. Farida Waziri and I trained him on how to use computers because most police officers were redeployed to the EFCC lack knowledge of using computer machines unlike the one that was part of the pioneer officers when the EFCC was established. He averred that his ordeal in EFCC was orchestrated by retired rtd AIG Ahmad AbdurRahman because there were contenders for who would be the next Chairman after Mrs. Farida Waziri and being his PA he was made to suffer the consequences, despite victimizing me I tried as much as possible to vindicate him outrightly and he praised me for saving his career in the Nigerian police force. My loyalty and sacrifices prevent him from facing disciplinary action that could affect his career.

He described his former boss as a self centered and unprofessional Police personnel who cannot differentiate between Administration and Operations, when he was redeployed to EFCC at the rank of CSP in 2008. Abdullahi’s capacity and capability in handling cases determines and leads to his successes in handling high profile cases. Abdullahi further averred that his EFCC matter is still pending before a competent court of law and in due time the law would take its course. He said all what has happened to him was as a result of AbdurRahman’s antecedents and shortcomings in the EFCC. He advised the paid civil society group and their sponsored to desist from pre-emptying the EFFC issues because its prejudice to do so, further comments or story on the matter he would seek for legal action against the Bauchi CSO’s and their sponsored, Rtd AbdurRahman.

He advised all individuals and groups that AbdurRahman is using to write against him to prioritize defending the rights of Nigerians youths living in abject poverty, unemployment and starvation rather than defending the indefensible who is using them for media propaganda rather than to defend himself from the allegations he is facing with the Bauchi State Government. It’s sad and disheartening how Rtd AbdurRahman could use amateurs, aspiring youths paying them hugely to defend him while they have never met with him before. They were just hired to write and defend his wrongdoings unjustly.

Even though he is from Bauchi State but for over thirty years he has been in Jos, Abuja and Kaduna with his family so there’s nobody on this earth that knows or can describe AbdurRahman better than hin Abdullahi said. I challenged the whole of the Bauchi State civil society group to provide photo evidence proving to him they know AbdurRahman in the past ten years or thereabouts. He further reminded AbdurRahman’s hired groups to dig deeply to find out the serving officers he had dealt with as a result of their Injustice so AbdurRahman AbdurRahman who is their sponsored is never a problem to him and he is not relevant any more therefore I would face and deal with him squarely until he do the needful. He shouldn’t underestimate me because I can recognize his games before he even plays it. AbdurRahman should be very careful, otherwise I am ready to release more evidence against him in the shortest possible time. I have gather my facts of his tenure as commandant Polac and other offices and I discovered procurement fraud and it’s like.

Detective Abdullahi further implored the Bauchi CSO’s and their sponsors of his readiness to provide all relevant documents/certificate to prove he is a trained Intelligence and Investigating officer and that he can do better than their boss Abdurahman. I don’t need to join issues with the CSO and the bloggers because they lack knowledge of the law, they are amateur who have never worked in both the EFCC and the Police, who cannot differentiate between the penal and criminal code, they are not exposed and have not even traveled outside Bauchi since birth so how could I waste my time arguing with them, Abdullahi Ishaq added.

Additionally, Abdullahi further stated that his former boss has benefited from a large number of vehicles both brand new and fairly used including a bull dozer from a very senior official in one of the country’s Law enforcement agencies to shield him from Investigation as a result of many petitions written against him but even a tyre was not given to him. He averred that his boss has benefited from many gifts likely emanated from the proceeds of crime in the EFCC but nothing has been given to me. He dared his boss to come out and tell the public if he had benefited.

Let me use this write up to categorically inform you that AbdurRahman has contested for the position of EFCC Chairman at three different times unsuccessful after spending hugely because of his shortcomings and antecedents. Following the ugly development, he is now desperate going round lobbying for state and federal positions knowing very well he is no more relevant in the country. Even the people that offer him respect for being a cleric they are doing so because of the uniform he was wearing but the truth has started manifesting now people are withdrawing from him gradually. I advise him to defend his actions to HE Gov. Bala Muhammad, Kauran Daular Usmaniyya Na Daya, instead of paying groups for media propaganda. As for me I am not financially buoyant to spend my hard earned money for that purpose. My stories are authentic and straight to the point and all I need from AbdurRahman is to defend himself from all the claims I outlined in my petition, Abdullahi added.

FG Moves to Deepen Lekki Channel Beyond 16.5M

The Federal Government has given the nod for the maintenance dredging of the $1.5bn Lekki Deep seaport channel from its present 16.5metres to  17metres in the first instance as it targets 19meters depth.. 

Disclosing this over the weekend during his maiden visit to Lekki port, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho in the company of senior management staff of the Authority, urged Lekki Port to consolidate transshipment volumes to landlocked neighboring countries.

According to Abubakar Dantsoho, “The rise in throughput volume at Lekki Port is exciting to us.

“Lekki’s capacity to berth super post-panamax vessels and deliver rapid cargo and vessel turnaround positions is a game-changer for Nigeria’s export competitiveness, particularly for agro-allied products, as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gains traction. 

“The port’s efficiency is driving steady increases in transshipment numbers, meeting the maritime needs of neighboring countries and supporting NPA’s goal of achieving economies of scale. 

“This enhanced competitiveness fuels demand, boosts foreign exchange inflows, and contributes significantly to Nigeria’s year-on-year trade surplus, reinforcing the national economy

“So it’s very pleasing to note the rising export figures and we hope that the export volume is going to double or even triple in the nearest future. And because of that, we have to still reaffirm our commitment as NPA management to do what we can possibly do within our own powers and with the support of the Federal Government to ensure that this trend, this beautiful throughput trend you have shown us, continues to grow and increase.

“So what are we doing to ensure that this trend continues? We are doing about five things. Now, number one, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola,  with the recommendation of the Nigerian Port Authority has gotten the approval for the dredging of the channel at Lekki Port. 

“This is something that we have been working towards, something that we’ve been discussing for almost two or three years. And finally, we give God the glory that it has happened.

“We have also syndicated a strategic partnership agreement with

China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to undertake the dredging in the overriding interest of trade facilitation”.   But because we wanted to also enhance the relationship and make the partnership stronger in a concerted bid to grow Nigeria’s trade volumes”. 

“So I think that’s a clear indication of how serious and how supportive we can get when it comes to issues of Lekki Port.”

On automation, the NPA MD stated that, “Now, the other thing I want to mention is the automation issue that you have raised. Now, luckily for you, and most likely because you are the most current or the latest port that we have in Nigeria, it is expected naturally that all those things that are required for a modern port should be here. Lekki Port is up to date with the technologies and we are very happy about that.

“The technology that is here will be part of the main requirements for the deployment of the port community system, which is a precursor for keying into the National Single Window. 

“We are hoping that other port locations or other terminals will very soon also have 100 percent capability in terms of technology deployment so that once we deploy the Port Community System, keying into it would not be an issue. So I really appreciate that Lekki Port has done well in the area of technology deployment.”

On channel survey, the NPA MD explained that the contract has been awarded.

“We have awarded the contract for the survey of the channel, which is also a major requirement of the international port and harbour and navigation systems. This will give us more optimisation in the area of channel management around Lekki Port.”

On Lekki Port request for a reduction in Ship Dues, the NPA MD explained that many of the equipment the Authority buys to ensure efficiency at the ports are dollarised.

“We keep buying Navigational Bouys, Tug Boats and otherd to ensure efficiency in port operations across the country. Because many of the things that we buy are dolariser, in as much as it’s necessary to lessen the burden of Lekki Port payments to government, Lekki Port should also know that we need to have more money to be able to buy more of these things and also ensure that personnel who are running them are also well paid.

“When the Single window is finally deployed, and 95 percent of port processes become paperless, the revenue at the ports will triple. Electronic transaction will completely or near completely eliminate unreceipted payments in our ports

“When this happens, it is believed that we are going to make more money. At that point, I think NPA will look at the possibility of bringing down the Ship Dues.”

The NPA MD also commended the Management of Lekki Deep Seaport for sustaining superior performance and remains unwavering in its commitment to providing every necessary support to optimize the port’s potential. 

Speaking earlier, the MD of Lekki Port, Wang Qiang presented several key requests for policy support to the NPA MD. 

“We wish to request for an adjustment of Tariff Structure to reflect service costs and inflation, reduction in Ship Dues specifically for large vessels and feeders, to enhance port competitiveness.

“Provision of Night Pilotage Services to enable 24/7 operations and improve vessel turnaround time, amongst others,” the Lekki Port MD stated.

The NPA MD also paid a visit to the $19.5bn Dangote Petrochemicals Refinery, and met Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.

Ex-Councilors Back APC Governors Endorsement of Tinubu for 2027

The National Forum of Ex-Councilors of Nigeria has thrown its weight behind the recent endorsement of President Bola Ahmad Tinubu for 2027 by members of the APC Governors Forum and the National Working Committee of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

The grassroots lawmakers gave their backing to the endorsement during an extra-ordinary meeting of the association held in Kaduna on Friday, May 23, 2025.

The National President of the Ex-councilors, Ambassador, Honourable Auwal Kasim Hassan, who presided over the meeting enumerated some of the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) since his assumption of office on May 29, 2023 and resolved that the endorsement of the President for continuity in office by the APC governors and the party were justified.

On their next move as 2027 draws nearer, Hon. Kasim disclosed that the
association will soon embark on endorsement Road Walks across the 774 LGA of Nigeria tp solicit support for the Tinubu 2027 project.

Adamawa ’27: Gidado Modibbo Emerges as Prime Contender to Succeed Fintiri Amid Political Realignments

By Tom Garba-Yola

As the 2027 gubernatorial election in Adamawa State approaches, a flurry of political alignments and realignments is unfolding behind the scenes, with both the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) strategizing to replace Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, who will complete his two-term tenure.

Amid speculations of a potential third force—a coalition yet to take shape—the question of who can build on Fintiri’s achievements and address the state’s challenges looms large.

In a state where past governors have often emerged without clear ideological moorings, Governor Fintiri’s call for a grassroots politician as his successor has sparked debate.

Critics argue this emphasis misses the deeper need for a leader with a transformative vision to unlock Adamawa’s vast potential, particularly its untapped natural resources.

Political observers suggest that the state requires a private sector-driven leader with proven expertise to shift its economy from a civil service-dominated model to a vibrant industrial hub.

One name gaining traction in this discourse is Gidado Mohammed Modibbo, the current Managing Director of Alliance Energy and former Managing Director of Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC).

Modibbo’s tenure at JEDC saw the company become the first distribution company in Nigeria to successfully divest its operations, a testament to his strategic leadership.

His ability to recruit competent teams and lay a sustainable foundation at JEDC has kept the company thriving even after his departure, earning him widespread respect in corporate and political circles.

A graduate of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Technology, Modibbo’s credentials extend beyond the boardroom. As a former student leader, he has consistently mentored young professionals, preparing them for roles in both the private and public sectors.

Supporters argue that his experience and vision position him as the ideal candidate to transform Adamawa into a private sector-driven economy, creating jobs, fostering industrial growth, and improving living standards.

“Adamawa needs a leader who can open the state to the global market,” said Aaron Yakubu, a political commentator from Song Local Government.

“Gidado Modibbo’s track record of putting the right people in the right positions and his strategic approach to leadership make him the best fit to succeed Fintiri and address the state’s economic challenges.”

As political maneuvers intensify, all eyes are on Modibbo to answer the growing clarion call to declare his candidacy. Whether he will heed this call and reshape Adamawa’s political and economic landscape remains to be seen, but his name is already sparking hope among those yearning for a new direction in 2027.

Governor Radda Orders All State Projects Under Community Monitoring

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has directed that all projects awarded by the Katsina State Government must be submitted to the Community Development Program Office for monitoring.

The Governor issued this directive during his visit to Garki village in Baure Local Government Area following a complaint letter from community members regarding a water project.

“All projects awarded by the state government should be given to the Community Development Program Office for monitoring,” Governor Radda stated.

The Governor said, “This is to make follow up with the contractors to see whether the bills of quantity of such projects tally with what was contained in the projects scope.”

Governor Radda also explained that he had received several complaints from various communities that needed to be properly addressed, adding that the new monitoring system is to ensure funds set aside for the intended projects are utilized judiciously.

“The state administration is more committed to providing basic amenities to all the citizens, adding that he brought all heads of the relevant agencies to hear the complaints with a view to ensure a lasting solution,” the Governor concluded.

The high-level delegation included Chief of Staff Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, the Commissioner of Water Resources and all heads of agencies under the ministry, Commissioner of Internal Security, Community Development Program Coordinator Dr Kamaludeen Kabir, Special Adviser on State Project Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation (SPIME), ES Katsina state Management Board, and Principal Private Secretary Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji, among others.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State

23rd May, 2025

BREAKING: PRAISES FOR UBA SANI AS KADUNA’S IGR HITS ₦19.5bn IN Q1

Kaduna State generated ₦19.5 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the first quarter of 2025 — a feat that has drawn widespread commendation and renewed confidence in Governor Uba Sani’s bold economic reforms.

The strong Q1 performance, revealed at the state’s quarterly revenue review meeting, highlights the momentum behind the administration’s drive for fiscal sustainability and inclusive development.

The Kaduna Economic Advancement League (KADECAL), a civil society group tracking fiscal transparency and development, was quick to applaud the governor’s performance. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Habeeb Bello Chikaji, KADECAL said the IGR surge reflects “the bold, people-focused leadership of Governor Uba Sani and the results of real work, not empty slogans.”

According to the group, Kaduna is witnessing a silent economic revolution, backed by smart policy choices and massive capital injections into key sectors. KADECAL cited several actions by the governor that have turbocharged the state’s economy and inspired renewed public confidence.

Top on the list is the injection of over ₦100 billion into the water supply sector — long plagued by neglect and erratic service. “Dry taps used to define urban and rural life in Kaduna, but that’s changing fast,” the group said. “The governor’s decisive investment has set the state on course for 100% steady water supply by December.”

The group also hailed the clearance of ₦800 million salary arrears owed to Kaduna State Water Corporation staff. “By clearing the backlog, the governor restored dignity to workers and re-energised water services across the state,” KADECAL noted.

Equally commended was the full payment of a ₦1.3 billion electricity debt that had crippled water infrastructure. Uba Sani’s intervention ensured uninterrupted power supply to water stations — “a practical solution that many before him failed to muster.”

On infrastructure, KADECAL highlighted the award of 78 new roads covering 775 kilometres across the state, describing it as “a legacy-defining road revolution” that is opening rural economies, boosting trade, and slashing travel time.

The group also applauded the governor’s recent intervention to rescue Kaduna-sponsored students stranded abroad due to unpaid fees and stipends. “By disbursing over $247,000 (₦407.9 million) to clear tuition backlogs in countries like Cuba, Hungary, the UAE, and Uganda, Governor Uba Sani didn’t just protect Kaduna’s global academic reputation — he gave those students a lifeline,” Chikaji said.

“Governor Uba Sani isn’t just ticking boxes — he’s tackling long-standing problems head-on. The ₦19.5bn IGR performance is a direct result of that resolve,” the statement concluded, urging citizens to support the administration’s drive toward economic renewal and inclusive growth.