Security: Attack on Nuhu Ribadu , Baseless , Irresponsible says Shehu Sani 

Former lawmaker and Senator who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District  in 8th Senate, Comrade Shehu Sani has described the recent attack on Nuhu Ribadu as baseless and irresponsible. 

According to him, Ribadu has performed more than any past National Security Adviser in coordinating security agencies and fighting terrorism.

Shehu Dani who disclosed this in chat with newsmen the National Security Adviser has restored order; peace and relative stability in most areas of the North that have been besieged and destroyed by bandits and terrorists. 

Reacting  to remarks made by a former governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, on the insecurity in parts of the country, he said Ribadu has been able to coordinate a security strategy that has protected Schools in the North and guarded key roads like the Abuja kaduna road,Maiduguri Damaturu road and Kaduna Birnin Gwari road, he revealed that Most of the terrorists leaders in the North have been arrested or eliminated. 

He however recalled,  “After the catastrophic failure of the GEJ and Buhari administration to secure the North,Nuhu has relatively accomplished in the area they failed. ‘

He further stated that  “Nuhu Ribadu is a round peg in a round hole.His achievements are self evident.Under Buhari,mass killings and kidnappings was a daily tragedy despite billions stolen in the name of defense and security. 

“Nuhu Ribadu’s Performance,dedication and passion for security in the North is unmatched,unparalleled and unprecedented”.

Islamic Groups Endorse New Tax Reform Bills

…Says They are with Good Intentions

Satisfied with contents of new tax reform bills, the amalgamation of Islamic groups under aegis of Islamic Forum for Unity of the Ummah have endorsed the controversial proposed reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

The Islamic Forum, which initially expressed fears and reservations about tax bills said after careful study of the content and wide consultants with experts, it was discovered that the bills are with good intentions and not dangerous to the interest of Islamic religion and Nigerians.

President had on On September 3, 2024, transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration, following the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms headed by Taiwo Oyedele for the review of existing tax laws.

The Islamic Forum,which announced the endorsement in a communique issued after a meeting held in Abuja said it decided to support the bills on grounds that they have the potential to reshape Nigeria’s fiscal landscape and drive economic growth and sustainability.

While recalling why the Northern traditional rulers; Northern States’ Governors Forum (NSGF) and other leaders in the region opposed the Nigeria Tax Bill, claiming it would improvish the region, the Islamic groups, urged the federal government to embark on mass enlightenment programme to educate Nigerians about the contents of the bills

The communique jointly signed by the Chairman, Mallam Adam Awwal Muhammad and Secretary Sheikh Akanbi Rashidi Bolaji, reads: That there is no basis to entertain any fear about these bills. If anything, Nigerians will commend Tinubu for laying a solid foundation that will ensure the fiscal stability of the country, if they get to know the details of the documents.

“The Nigeria Tax Bill aims to codify all of the taxing provisions into one single document, to be known as the Nigeria Tax Act when passed into law. In the bill, chapters are devoted to the various tax types in a simplified format. The proposed tax law is also written in a simple language that anyone with basic literary education can read and understand.

“After intensive deliberations and analysis of the content of proposed reforms,we gathered that key components are intended to reduce overlapping taxes; harmonise tax processes nationwide; and create a Joint Revenue Board to streamline tax administration across the country.

“Against this background,We are appealing to our Muslim brothers to support the tax reform initiative .

We are urging the Non Governmental Organizations, Civil Society Organization,and government at all levels to to ensure the documents are made public.

“We however,suggest that President Tinubu meet with Governors , stakeholders and manufacturers and the ordinary citizens to discuss importance of bills to growth and development of our country.”

Adamawa: Transformative L’ship: APC Fufore LGA Passes Vote of Confidence on Hon Barr Boya

By Tom Garba, Yola

The APC Fufore LGA Chapter has passed a unanimous vote of confidence in Hon. Barr. Aliyu Boya Wakili, Member of the House of Representatives for Fufore and Song Federal Constituency, and Chairman of the House Committee on Police Institutions.

This recognition is a testament to his exceptional leadership and dedication to the people of Fufore and Song.

Hon. Barr. Aliyu Boya Wakili’s key achievements are truly impressive. The APC Fufore LGA Chapter recognized his outstanding contributions, which include progressing bills to establish the Federal College of Technology, Song, and the Federal College of Education (Technical), Fufore.

Boya’s achievements demonstrate his commitment to enhancing livelihoods and fostering growth in his constituency.

He also secured a 20-billion-naira allocation for road rehabilitation in Jabbi-Lamba, Malabu, and Belel, and constructed classrooms and offices in GDSS Dadin, Fufore, and Professor Jibril Amin, Song LGA. Furthermore, he sponsored solar-powered and hand-pump boreholes across various locations in Song and Fufore LGA.

In addition to these accomplishments, Boya established a program to support tertiary students across Fufore LGA, sponsored a free eye medical camp, including surgeries, in Fufore LGA, and distributed farm implements, palliatives, and financial support to local farmers, families, and stakeholders.

His dedication to education, infrastructure development, and community empowerment is evident in his numerous initiatives.

As a representative of Fufore/Song constituency in Adamawa state, Boya has demonstrated his commitment to improving the lives of his constituents. His dedication to education, infrastructure development, and community empowerment is evident in his numerous initiatives.

On October 5th, Hon. Barr. Aliyu Wakili Boya organized a Mega Empowerment Program, providing resources to empower stakeholders, including cars, tricycles, motorcycles, sewing machines, and food items.

Today, November 4, 2024, influential stakeholders from Fufore LGA, including Hon. Jika Bapetel, Alhaji Abubakar Jijiwa, and Alhaji Bawuro Buba, visited Hon. Barr. Aliyu Boya Wakili to formally deliver the vote of confidence and commend his outstanding efforts.

Hon. Barr. Aliyu Wakili Boya’s achievements demonstrate his commitment to enhancing livelihoods and fostering growth in his constituency. His vision, dedication, and results-driven approach exemplify the leadership Fufore and Song deserve.

CNG Buses:Free Transport Scheme and Governor Uba Sani’s Love for  Workers 

On Saturday, May 29, 2024, Senator Uba Sani was sworn-in as the 10th democratically elected Governor of Kaduna State and with a mindset that “Leadership is not about a title or a designation, but about impact , influence and inspiration” as defined by a world leadership expert, Robin Sharma.

Since assuming office ,the former lawmaker, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District in the 9th Senate has demonstrated  sound knowledge and character that revealed he understood the rudiments of governance. His response  and approach to State matters shows he was prepared and committed to move the State to a greater heights of development . Little wonder, he didn’t waste time before he swung into action to commence implementation  of his 7-Point agenda.

The  7-Point agenda with Acronym SUSTAIN  was a  carefully crafted document to address and cover the basic needs that will improve lives of citizens to engender growth and development. About 18 months in office as  Governor of the former historical headquarters of northern region,the people are no doubt convinced that Governor Uba Sani meant business with the meticulous manner he has been implementing the SUSTAIN agenda, which covers the entire spectrum of security, human capital development, infrastructure development, Institutional development, as well as Trade and Investment.

It is in line with the high priority placed on workers and the need to cushion effect of hardship caused by the removal of petroleum subsidy ,Governor Uba Sani concluded arrangements to distribute CNG buses for free transportation In the first phase of the free transportation scheme, 100 free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses for civil servants are ready for launch, with labour union and state transport agency to take  charge of the  operations, when they finally distribute them . 

Governor Uba Sani however, revealed reasons behind the scheme. According to him, the decision to provide free transportation for workers is in line with his administration’s commitment to the advancement of the interests of workers and improvement in the living conditions of the poor, vulnerable and enhancing their productivity.

Unfortunately, over the years it became somehow  a norm for government to purchase vehicles for both intra and inter  transport system and thereafter such vehicles due to bad maintenance culture are damaged beyond repairs. But to avoid a repeat of the lapse and  mistake of the past ,it became clear that a Joint Management Committee consisting of representatives of organized labour (NLC and TUC) and the State Government will be set up to manage the Free Transportation Scheme for the civil servants.

The Governor didn’t stop only at providing free transportation for workers ,despite the meager funds available due huge debt incurred by the previous administration, he took the bold step to  approve a new minimum wage of N72,000 for civil servants in the state, effective November 2024.

A feat workers across the 23 local government areas have applauded as they acknowledged as a lifelong commitment to promoting and protecting workers’ rights.

Corroborating the mood of  workers over the cheering news  of the approval of the  72,000 naira minimum wage ,  a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Malam Ibraheem Musa confirmed that the decision was obviously in line with the advancement of the interests of workers and improvement in the living conditions of the poor, vulnerable and underserved in Kaduna State.

An uncompromising evidence that Governor Uba Sani administration was dedicated to enhancing the welfare of ” our civil servants ” and improving their productivity,with assurance he will continue to fashion and implement policies and measures to bring succour to the people.

Body language of the Governor and  committed efforts in recent days also show that he is living no stone unturned  to make Kaduna a model for social welfare interventions by  transforming the lives of the less privileged in the state  . 

A pointer to the commitment and resolve to change the narrative in governance architecture,  Senator Uba sani  made a surprise reception for the Minors released from Abuja as indication of steps towards social transformation .

The immeasurable spirit of the governor indicates a strong desire to engage the youths in the state towards productive venture. The governor promised that some of them will be given start-up capitals to commence trading, others will be taught skills and some will be given employment,’’ he added.

Recently, President Bola Tinubu ordered the release of the detained minors facing trial for treason on compassionate grounds and directed the government of Kaduna and Kano States to anchor the rehabilitation of the suspects so, they can be  reintegrated into the social fabric of their respective communities and society at large.

In response to the directive of the President in line with his priority for welfare of citizens,the Governor immediately directed the Secretary to Kaduna State Government,Dr. Abdulkadir Muazu Meyere, Secretary to the Kaduna State Government to make necessary arrangements for the rehabilitation and proper reintegration to the Upon release.

The first measure taken was to ensure they all went through a medical examination and received psycho-social counseling,which  focused  on personal development and community contribution. It didn’t  stop there, religious leaders were invited  from both Islamic and Christian communities to counsel the children, emphasize the importance of faith and the dangers of negative influences.

Thereafter,“the Governor promised some of them start-up capital for trading, while others will be trained and offered employment. He also pledged his administration’s commitment to partnering with relevant stakeholders to support the freed suspects in completing their education or engaging in ventures that will positively impact their lives.

In addition, each of the freed Minors was handed a whooping hundred thousand naira (N100,000) and an android phone to commence a productive life envisaged to multiply for economic prosperity. 

To ensure compliance to the gesture ,the government will monitor the conduct of each child, extending these benefits based on good behavior. Contact details, including addresses, phone numbers, and next-of-kin information, were recorded for easy tracking and follow-up.

NNPCL: CSOs Kick Against Protest Against Mele Kyari , Says it’s sponsored cheap blackmail

Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis Good Governance Initiative For Development (GGID) have dismissed the recent protest against  Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer  of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as a sponsored job to blackmail and descredit all efforts made to return the oil sector on right path of growth and development.

According bro the Coalition, the latest  clamours for removal of Kyari,who has helped President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda score huge wins in the petroleum sector is unnecessary.

Recalled that Some groups had mobilized other civil society groups to shut down the National Assembly complex on Tuesday with the Kyari-Must-Go protest.

The  anti-Kyari protesters are demanding the immediate resignation of the NNPCL boss by the Presiden Bola AhmedTinubu.

But in a statement by the Coordinator of the Good Governance Initiative For Development, Comrade Yunusa Kabir Mohammed,  the group said the call for Kyari’s resignation is nothing short of a  blackmail of the NNPC boss who has engineered efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“This is undoubtedly sponsored by mischief makers who were bent on discrediting President Tinubu’s petroleum reforms agenda for the benefit of the masses.” It added  .

While describing the protest as a clear case of internal sabotage orchestrated by individuals that are threatened by Kyari’s success, it dismissed the accusations raised as baseless and motivated by corrupt interests seeking to undermine the significant progress made in the oil and gas sector.

The statement reads : “Kyari’s leadership has driven crucial reforms, such as the transition of NNPC into a limited liability company, enhancing its financial viability and operational efficiency. Noting his resolve to tackle oil theft through strategic partnerships with security agencies has contributed significantly to enhancing Nigeria’s revenue base.

“Why do we allow anyone sabotage kyari’s genuine commitment to creating sustainable downstream sector, despite the challenges of fixing the refineries and efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“We  express disappointment in those who have sought to discredit management of NNPCL , suggesting that the calls for Kyari’s removal are orchestrated by individuals benefiting from the previous corrupt practices in the sector. 

“We therefore urge President Bola Tinubu to reject their demands because the reforms Kyari has implemented are essential for the continued development of the sector and the nation’s economic stability.

“It is obvious that the motivations behind this protest seem deeply entrenched in personal interest rather than collective welfare. The protests are based on misleading narratives and serve to undermine the significant reforms Kyari has implemented.”

“We stand in firm support of Mele Kyari and appeal to the President not to yield to these unfounded demands,as the nation cannot afford to reverse the gains made in the oil sector.”

NNPCL: CSOs Pass Vote of Confidence on Mele Kyari’s Management, Says Recent Protest Meant To Disrupt Ongoing Reforms

Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis Good Governance Initiative For Development (GGID) have dismissed the recent protest against Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as a sponsored job to blackmail and descredit all efforts made to return the oil sector on right path of growth and development.

According bro the Coalition, the latest clamours for removal of Kyari,who has helped President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda score huge wins in the petroleum sector is unnecessary.

Recalled that Some groups had mobilized other civil society groups to shut down the National Assembly complex on Tuesday with the Kyari-Must-Go protest.

The anti-Kyari protesters are demanding the immediate resignation of the NNPCL boss by the Presiden Bola AhmedTinubu.

But in a statement by the Coordinator of the Good Governance Initiative For Development, Comrade Yunusa Kabir Mohammed, the group said the call for Kyari’s resignation is nothing short of a blackmail of the NNPC boss who has engineered efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“This is undoubtedly sponsored by mischief makers who were bent on discrediting President Tinubu’s petroleum reforms agenda for the benefit of the masses.” It added .

While describing the protest as a clear case of internal sabotage orchestrated by individuals that are threatened by Kyari’s success, it dismissed the accusations raised as baseless and motivated by corrupt interests seeking to undermine the significant progress made in the oil and gas sector.
The statement reads : “Kyari’s leadership has driven crucial reforms, such as the transition of NNPC into a limited liability company, enhancing its financial viability and operational efficiency. Noting his resolve to tackle oil theft through strategic partnerships with security agencies has contributed significantly to enhancing Nigeria’s revenue base.

“Why do we allow anyone sabotage kyari’s genuine commitment to creating sustainable downstream sector, despite the challenges of fixing the refineries and efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“We express disappointment in those who have sought to discredit management of NNPCL , suggesting that the calls for Kyari’s removal are orchestrated by individuals benefiting from the previous corrupt practices in the sector.

“We therefore urge President Bola Tinubu to reject their demands because the reforms Kyari has implemented are essential for the continued development of the sector and the nation’s economic stability.

“It is obvious that the motivations behind this protest seem deeply entrenched in personal interest rather than collective welfare. The protests are based on misleading narratives and serve to undermine the significant reforms Kyari has implemented.”

“We stand in firm support of Mele Kyari and appeal to the President not to yield to these unfounded demands,as the nation cannot afford to reverse the gains made in the oil sector.”

Rescue Movement Commends President Tinubu For Ordering The Immediate Release Of The Detained Minors.

Rescue Movement For New Nigeria aka Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative, has given kudos to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his prompt action in giving order for the release of the detained minors as the presidency heard of the issue through public out cry.

This was disclosed in another statement issued and made available to pressmen by Rev Emmanuel Olorunmagba, the group National Director Media and Publicity; who had earlier issued a statement on behalf of the group, calling the attention of the presidency to the issue of the maltreatment of the minors who had been kept in prison for over three months. In the earlier statement, “Rescue Movement had described the maltreatment of the minors as ‘crime against humanity and calling on the federal government to immediately commencement investigation into the scenario as some of us still want to assume that such acts could be the handiwork of overzealous official.’ and concluded that earlier statement that, ‘we don’t only expect statement from the presidency over this dastardly acts, but appropriate action to really show that the actors are not acting on order from the presidency.’

“And, other notable Nigerians also raised alarm over the detaining and maltreatment of the minors.

“In a swift reaction, President Bola Tinubu directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to ensure the immediate and unconditional release of all the detained minors, without prejudice to whatever legal processes.

“Also the President mandated the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to prioritize the immediate welfare of the minors and ensure they are reunited with their parents or guardians, no matter their location within Nigeria.

“The announcement by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, to State House correspondents during an emergency briefing at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja; also has it that ‘the President has also directed that all the law enforcement agents involved in the arrest and the legal processes will be investigated, and if there are any infractions found to have been committed by any official of Government, be it a law enforcement agent, or whoever that person may be, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against him or her.'”

Commending the action, the clergy added that, “this is exactly and all that we demanded. And the president has by this action shown that he has listening ears and he is a father indeed.

“Our opposition is not just about criticism, but it’s about nation building, ensuring that a new Nigeria that we all can be proud of evolve, irrespective of who is at the helms of affairs. And we will continue to speak for the people with the sole aim of contributing towards building a great nation that will take her rightful place of pride among the Comity of Nations. And where the government gets it right, we will not hesitate to commend the government as we have done”, he concluded

Government House, Katsina

Press Release

Gov Radda Griefs Over Passing of
COAS, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja At 56

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, has expressed profound sadness over the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

Governor Radda describes Late General Lagbaja as a distinguished military officer whose dedication to securing Nigeria’s territorial integrity and combating internal security challenges was exemplary.

His strategic leadership and unwavering commitment to military excellence significantly strengthened the Nigerian Army’s operational capabilities.

The Governor reflects on his personal interactions with the late COAS, explaining that Lt. General Lagbaja’s impactful tenure as GOC 1 Division of Nigerian Army played a crucial role in addressing security challenges within the division’s area of responsibility.

“During our meetings which focused on security matters, the Late Chief of Army Staff consistently demonstrated his commitment to ending banditry and other forms of insecurity in Katsina State and the nation at large.

His recent visit to Katsina on September 6th, 2024, where he toured military formations to assess operations and civil-military relations, further exemplified his hands-on leadership approach,” the Governor recalled.

“Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s remarkable service record and professional achievements in the military stand as a testament to his patriotism and exceptional leadership qualities.

His innovative approaches to counter-terrorism operations and military modernization efforts have left an indelible mark on our nation’s security architecture,” Governor Radda stated.

The Governor extends his heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Government and people of Osun State, the Nigerian Army, and the entire nation on this irreparable loss.

He particularly commiserates with the family of the late Chief of Army Staff during this difficult time.

“Nigeria has lost a fine soldier, a patriotic citizen, and a committed leader whose contributions to national security will be remembered for generations to come,” the Governor added.

Governor Radda prays that Almighty Allah forgive the deceased and gives his family and the nation at large the fortitude to bear this great loss.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina

6th November, 2024