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Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has officially launched the construction of a 14.8km dual road project in Millennium City, Chikun LGA, marking a significant milestone in the state's infrastructure development journey.

The groundbreaking ceremony, which took place at Danbushiya Junction, signals the commencement of the project, which will connect Danbushiya to other areas in Millennium City.

In his keynote address, Senator Uba Sani emphasized his administration's commitment to infrastructure development, highlighting its role in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for citizens.

He assured the public that the project will be delivered on time and within budget, demonstrating the government's dedication to efficient project management.

Thinklab Group, a renowned conglomerate with expertise in housing development, finance solutions, and infrastructure, has been appointed as the contractor for the project.

With a proven track record in building construction, industrial facilities, civil structures, roads, and infrastructure, Thinklab Group is well-equipped to handle the project's demands, ensuring high-quality delivery.

The event was well-attended by dignitaries, including the SSG, Cabinet Members, Traditional Rulers, and Community Stakeholders, among others.

Dr. Sa’id Kori, the CEO of Thinklab Group, assured the general public of effective service delivery. “I thank the Kaduna State Government for trusting the capabilities of this company.

"We are a reputable company with the capacity to deliver this project efficiently and timely. This will be an exciting project for us at Thinklab; my capable team will do a wonderful job as always.”

Also speaking at the grand opening of this project was the GMD of Thinklab Group, Dr. Babagana Mohammed. He praised the Kaduna State Government for taking such a significant step.

“I commend the Kaduna State Government for this great step towards making life easier for the citizens of Kaduna State.

“On our part in Thinklab Group, we assure the Kaduna State Government and the general public that they should expect nothing below the maximum standard from us at Thinklab Group.”

A group representing the Rebuild Arewa Initiative for Development (RAID), has cautioned against plans to stage a protest against President Bola Tinubu, urging those involved to refrain from taking actions that could destabilize the country.

They urged the federal government to reconsider its stance and restore the fuel subsidy to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians and stimulate economic growth.

The President of the initiative, Balarabe Rufai, disclosed this in Abuja, at the end of its stakeholders' engagement on the state of the nation, he said mass actions/protest is a constitutional gift to the citizens meant to improve good governance, strengthen democracy, and hold leaders accountable.

The group, however, said the only way to quell the current national feud multifaceted protests that could be infiltrated and hijacked like the ENDSARS, is to restore subsidies on fuel, electricity, and transportation to force down prices of essential commodities.

He explained that mass action/ protests often turn out to be something else negative in the third world countries most especially Africa.

Rufai also called on the federal government to put back into active use all the refineries before the end of 2024 with a view to bringing down fuel pump prices.

He said: “Government also needs to holistically tackle the energy crisis and boost the economy. Government should prioritize the immediate commencement of the MAMBILA power project and ensure the reliability and strict supervision to avoid reoccurrence.”

The group, which aims to promote peace and stability in Nigeria, emphasized the need for constructive dialogue and engagement rather than resorting to protests that could lead to unrest.

He added, “All the uprising turned to riots at one time or the other has adversely and negatively affected the host countries thereby making some ungovernable till present day. In a nutshell, Nigeria's current situation calls for action especially when a common man is faced with the daily challenges of basic necessity and to some extent survival.

“This organization is highly sensitive to the challenges associated with life. However, we cannot shun away from confronting the bitter truth and take responsibility at a critical time of needs.

“While recognizing the right of every citizen to peacefully protest, we remain cautious of the fact that political maturity is still lacking in our system. We are yet to develop a strong shoulder to withstand the pressure, consequences of our selfish actions and weather the storm when the atmosphere turns blink.

“In essence, we want to use this opportunity to caution our fellow country men and women, especially the younger generations, that at this very critical time, protest is not the answer to the lingering problem of our Nation.”

Avoid regrets: “The only way to quell the current national feud & multifaceted protests that could be infiltrated and hijacked like the ENDSARS, is to say sorry & restore subsidies on fuel, electricity, transportation to force down prices of essential commodities.

“Fund education & healthcare as well as food security, development infrastructure & pay a living wage to workers, military, police & sundry security operatives whose families are starving and groaning.

“Not less than 90% of Nigerians are tired of bad governance & empty promises for 25 years without hope. It's important. Great leaders are quick to say sorry when the policies are unacceptable to the people. Get it right that subsidies are rights, not privileges.”

Despite a significant increase in crude oil production and favorable global oil prices, Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), on Friday, lamented that the windfall has not translated into any tangible benefits for the average Nigerian or the nation as a whole.

The group called on President Tinubu to overhaul his economic team and appoint competent professionals who can devise and implement effective economic strategies to salvage the nation's economy.

The National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, disclosed this in Abuja, during a press briefing, he said that the President Ahmed Bola Tinubu's economic team is the worst since Nigeria’s return to civil rule in 1999.

According to the group, “Nigeria's oil production rose from 1.18 million barrels per day (mbpd) to 1.28 mbpd, while global oil prices surged to $82.57 per barrel, exceeding the earlier benchmark of $76.97.

“However, the increased revenue has failed to trickle down to the citizens, with no noticeable improvement in their standard of living or the nation's economic development.”

He noted that in this dire situation, instead of providing relief, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) announced an increase in interest rates, which will further devastate the economy and diminish prospects for job creation.

It said empirical data from the NBS and others reveal that over the past year, key economic indices have worsened with no definitive and evidence-based solutions in sight.

Charanchi said: “The outcome of the MPC economic policies is a clear manifestation that President Tinubu’s economic team is the worst since Nigeria’s return to civil rule in 1999. The team lacks coordination, focus, foresight, and a clear understanding of the workings of the Nigerian economy.

“The anti-people policies of the government only enabled the few elites to primitively acquire wealth, while the vast majority of citizens continue to languish in deep poverty.”

He noted that in responding to the current hardship facing Nigerians, the government appears to be adopting a trial-and-error approach to the economy, resulting in further deterioration and further exposing people to avoidable hardship.

He added, “The anti-people policies of the government only enabled the few elites to primitively acquire wealth, while the vast majority of citizens continue to languish in deep poverty. To compound the situation, the government has increased the interest rate from 18.5% to around 30%, a 62% rise.

“The CNG shares stakeholders' concerns that higher interest rates will not only reduce investments and economic growth but also aggravate the daunting challenges inundating the business environment, leading to factory closures, job losses, and reduced economic activities.”

He explained that Tinubu's economic advisers have demonstrated a lack of understanding of our economic realities, perpetuating harmful policies that are disastrous for the country and squandering the president's political capital.

While appreciating the federal government’s intention to pay a decent living wage to Nigerian workers, he said “We are skeptical of the federal government’s plan to further increase the fuel price in order to fund the new national minimum wage.

"We reject this plan and urge the government to explore humane and innovative alternatives such as reducing wasteful expenditure and the high cost of governance, tackling corruption, and increasing taxes on luxury goods to fund the minimum wage. Any wage increase that hikes the fuel price is self-defeating.”

He said 740 trucks loaded with rice, amounting to 880,020 bags of rice, will be distributed nationwide to cushion the hardship. However, these token measures are clearly and totally inadequate to tackle the problems of mass hunger affecting millions of Nigerians.


Minimum Wage:
For a long time, the CNG holds the firm view that increasing minimum wage amid rising inflation, devaluation of the naira and pervasive economic crises will never solve the problem of Nigerian workers. While we appreciate the federal government’s intention to pay a decent living wage to Nigerian workers, we are skeptical over the federal government’s plan to further increase the fuel price in order to fund the new national minimum wage. Hike in fuel prices, will not only over burden the Nigerian workers but it will also economically pauperize Nigerians.

Such a move is cruel and unjustified at the moment when the majority of Nigerians could not afford a decent meal a day. We reject this plan and urge the government to explore humane and innovative alternatives such as reducing wasteful expenditure and high cost of governance, tackling corruption, and increasing taxes on luxury goods to fund the minimum wage. Any wage increase that hikes fuel price is self-defeating.

The Current Situation:

Mr. President, The CNG feels duty bound to draw your esteemed attention to the alarming danger in the immediate horizon, as evidenced by dark clouds of imminent massive revolt of citizens against the government.

Furthermore, the CNG feels compelled to inform Mr. president that the recent announcement made by the government that 740 trucks load of rice amounting to 880,020 bags of rice will be distributed nationwide to cushion the hardship, that this token measures are clearly and totally inadequate to tackle the problems of mass hunger affecting millions of Nigerians. We wish to emphasize that public relations stunt as being deployed by some section of Nigerian Power elite will never solve this national problem.

Mr. President must summon the needed political will and courage to urgently address the root cause of these problems i.e rising fuel pump price, hike in electricity tariff, escalating cost of food items, depreciating value of the Naira and high cost of governance. These problems Predated your government but the policies your government adopted since coming to power have combined to compound these problems, especially the imposition of high taxation on both citizens and businesses. In addition to the award of inessential contracts at indefensible amounts which are injurious to the nation’s economy.
Regrettably, most of these contracts are to be financed by borrowed money from foreign sources.

Conclusion:

Finally, Mr. president, cosmetic measures are usually not sufficient to contain the raging anger of the people, particularly when they are inundated by economic hardships, massive hunger and rampant poverty, while the political class and their cohorts live a life of scandalous opulence and open ostentatious.

We pray that may Almighty Allah endow you with the needed political will and the divine wisdom to listen to the cries of the people and to steer the ship of the nation with the fear of God, compassion and unstinting humane disposition, to a safe destination.

The Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, on Wednesday, cautioned the organizers of the planned nationwide protest to perish the idea of staging any form of protest in Igbo land.

It could be recalled that the protest, billed to hold from August 1-10, is against the current hardship in the country.

The National President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, in a statement, said the youths were in tandem with the decision of the South-East Governors' Forum.

Okwu, who said they opposed a similar protest in the past, declared that nothing had changed from their stand.

He said: “We affirm our earlier position that we are solidly behind the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In as much as we admit that there are challenges facing the country, we don’t believe that protest is the way forward. Rather, we should all keep faith with the government as it makes conscious efforts to restore the fortunes of the country.

“Without mincing words, we restate that the entire Igbo youths have confidence in President Tinubu’s government and would not do anything to jeopardise its efforts. In most cases, it only gets better after it has gotten worse, and that is the current situation in the country.

“Anyone looking for Igbo youths to be used as sacrificial lambs should check elsewhere; never again shall we allow ourselves to be victims of such a nationwide action.”

Okwu advised Igbo youths across the country and in the diaspora “To stay away from trouble and avoid anything that would lead to the destruction of their homes and businesses.”

He added that “Our utmost concern now is that the Federal Government should free Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and grant the South-East additional state to be at par with the other regions.

“It should also correct all imbalances on appointments in reflection of the federal character principle.”

As the government continues to engage with stakeholders on the economic, social and political challenges of the country, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has urged the promoters of the proposed nationwide protests to pursue dialogue instead of its recourse to disorder.

It also revealed that the Agency’s nationwide structure has successfully identified the sponsors of the proposed protest and likely flashpoints saying the government will take measures to forestall any violent occurences in the identified locations.

Director General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu who made it clear that the channels of communication to government and its various arms remain open to dialogue said it will continue to respect citizens' right to protest and associate freely in line with democratic principles.

The DG, in a statement by the agency Deputy Director of Press, Mr. Paul Odenyi, said: “The identities of many of the brains behind the protest have been known, along with their collaborators who are safely residing abroad and the government is taking necessary actions to stop their subversive plans.

“The intentions of the elements behind the planned protest are not about governance or state of the economy but a decoy to destabilize the country, cause mayhem and carry out arson, killings, maiming of innocent citizens for narrow political reasons.

“NOA is intensifying efforts in civil intelligence gathering and sensitization of community leaders, parents and youths across the 774 local governments on the need for vigilance and collective preventive actions.

“The other objective of the protest is to project to the international community, a picture of an unstable country as part of the grand design to intimidate the government and seek patronage of the bigger sponsors of the planned protest.”

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), expresses deep concern over the deteriorating state of affairs in Nigeria, saying that the prevailing harsh living conditions have reached a critical juncture.

AYCF, said that it has been closely observing the burgeoning discontent, particularly among the youth, who are disproportionately suffering due to economic hardships and societal challenges.

The President General of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, in a statement, said the harsh living conditions is leading to escalating frustration and anger among the populace.

According to the NBS report read: “On a month-on-month basis, the headline inflation rate in June 2024 was 2.31%, which was 0.17% higher than the rate recorded in May 2024 (2.14%). This means that in the month of June 2024, the rate of increase in the average price level is higher than the rate of increase in the average price level in May 2024.”

Shettima said: “The mounting resentment within the population has reached an alarming tipping point, with the likelihood of imminent mass protests becoming more pronounced.

“The youth, in particular, are experiencing a profound sense of disillusionment and disenfranchisement, which has eroded their hopes for a better future. Widespread poverty, rampant unemployment, lack of basic amenities, and rising insecurity are cultivating an environment ripe for unrest.

“The economic situation is dire, with Nigerian citizens grappling to make ends meet as the cost of living continues an upward trajectory. Unemployment rates have surged to record levels, businesses are collapsing, and the purchasing power of the average citizen is diminishing at an alarming rate.

“The lack of basic services such as electricity, clean water, and healthcare is exacerbating the plight of the people, further contributing to the growing discontent.

“There is a palpable sense of marginalization and neglect, leading to a collective sense of betrayal towards the government. Should these tensions go unchecked, they could give rise to widespread protests, potentially escalating into uncontrollable unrest.

“However, we implore the youth to abstain from violent protests or actions that could further aggravate the situation. Violence will only breed further destruction and loss of life, without effectively addressing the root causes of our grievances.

“We advocate for channeling frustrations and grievances through peaceful and constructive means of engagement that can foster positive change. It is imperative that the youth of Nigeria refrain from participating in any protests or demonstrations that could disrupt the nation's stability.”

He called on the government to take immediate action to alleviate the brewing tensions and avert impending public unrest.

He said that the authorities must prioritize the welfare of the citizens, working diligently to improve living conditions for all Nigerians.

He urged Nigerians to maintain calm and composure amidst these adversities, adding that, “Let us, as a nation, unite to address the challenges we face, and work towards building a better future for current and future generations. Together, we can overcome these hardships and create a more prosperous and equitable society for all.

“AYCF is a leading youth organization dedicated to advocating for the welfare and development of the youth in Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region. We aim to promote socio-economic development, political engagement, and a peaceful, prosperous nation for future generations.”

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN), a prominent organization dedicated to fostering unity and progress in the Northern region of Nigeria, has shed light on the motivations behind the emergence of fake factions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Senator Kabiru Marafa and Aminu Sani Jaji.

According to NAN, the recent political realignment involving Senator Abdulaziz Yari and Minister of State for Defence Bello Mohammed Matawalle, which has formed a formidable alliance with significant political influence beneficial to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu across the northern region, has provoked a sense of threat among figures such as Marafa and Jaji who are the masterminds of orchestrating actions against President Tinubu and his administration in the North.

In a press statement signed by its Chairman, Salihu Suleiman, NAN elaborates on the reasons behind Marafa and Jaji's pent-up jealousies against the President. The forum asserts that both individuals harbor deep-seated grudges against President Tinubu, driving their current machinations.

“Specifically, Marafa is dissatisfied due to his belief that he was excluded from federal government appointments, while Jaji's grievances stem from not being appointed Speaker of the House of Representatives despite allegedly contributing N10 billion to Tinubu's campaign,” the group said.

NAN also called for a thorough investigation into the sources of Jaji’s income to verify the origins of such a substantial sum as claimed. They also stress the need to address Jaji’s use of connections with top security officials to gather potentially damaging information against President Tinubu. Additionally, the forum has accused Jaji of financing religious sermons in Friday mosques aimed at undermining the President and emphasized the urgency for swift and decisive action to counter these calculated attacks.

“We are aware of the slanderous actions being financed and conducted under the guise of religious sermons. The President must take swift and decisive action to counter these calculated attacks.

“The actions of Senator Kabiru Marafa and Aminu Sani Jaji raise serious concerns about the political future of party politics in Nigeria. The motivations behind their factions within the APC must be thoroughly investigated, and decisive action must be taken to safeguard the unity and progress of the party. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must remain vigilant in the face of these challenges and strive to uphold the values of integrity and unity within his administration.”

NAN's stance underscores the importance of addressing factionalism within the political landscape to maintain stability and progress in the country. The organization remains committed to supporting measures that promote unity and integrity within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC.

The Cross River State Ministry of Education, has refuted a recent report by SUNDAY PUNCH on July 7, 2024 that the state is among the 18 states that have not recruited teachers since 2018.

The Commissioner for Education in Cross River, Senator. Stephen Odey, in a statement, said that the State is determined to revamp and revive the education sector.

He said that according to the unverified data obtained from the National Union of Teachers (NUT), in Abuja, which stated that Cross River State is among the States that have not recruited Teachers since 2018, is wrong, untrue, incorrect and misleading.

Odey said: “Under my supervision and superintendent as Executive Chairman, CR-SUBEB during the former administration, recruitment was done in Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (CR-SUBEB), where 500 qualified teaching staff and non teaching staff were recruited for the three (3) UBEC Model Schools in the State.

“Again in 2019, 2,500 qualified Cross Riverians were recruited into the State Universal Basic Education Board (CR-SUBEB), for Teaching / non-teaching staff positions, which was successfully carried out and qualified persons, after a rigorous and thorough recruitment exercise, were successfully engaged.

“Note also that in 2023, the former administration recruited 134 best hands for the UBEC Smart School in Obudu Local Government Area, as at today the total number of recruitment of teaching and non teaching staff for the State Basic Education stands at 3,123.”

He noted that the State Ministry of Education has applied to the State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s led administration, for the recruitment of 6,000 teachers to complement what was done by the previous administration, and the Governor’s approval is being awaited.

Odey called on other media to verify such information from the Ministry of Education before publishing, to avoid conflicting and unsubstantiated reports that are misleading to members of the public.

The Cross River State Ministry of Education, has refuted a recent report by SUNDAY PUNCH on July 7, 2024 that the state is among the 18 states that have not recruited teachers since 2018.

The Commissioner for Education in Cross River, Senator. Stephen Odey, in a statement, said that the State is determined to revamp and revive the education sector.

He said that according to the unverified data obtained from the National Union of Teachers (NUT), in Abuja, which stated that Cross River State is among the States that have not recruited Teachers since 2018, is wrong, untrue, incorrect and misleading.

Odey said: “Under my supervision and superintendent as Executive Chairman, CR-SUBEB during the former administration, recruitment was done in Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (CR-SUBEB), where 500 qualified teaching staff and non teaching staff were recruited for the three (3) UBEC Model Schools in the State.

“Again in 2019, 2,500 qualified Cross Riverians were recruited into the State Universal Basic Education Board (CR-SUBEB), for Teaching / non-teaching staff positions, which was successfully carried out and qualified persons, after a rigorous and thorough recruitment exercise, were successfully engaged.

“Note also that in 2023, the former administration recruited 134 best hands for the UBEC Smart School in Obudu Local Government Area, as at today the total number of recruitment of teaching and non teaching staff for the State Basic Education stands at 3,123.”

He noted that the State Ministry of Education has applied to the State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s led administration, for the recruitment of 6,000 teachers to complement what was done by the previous administration, and the Governor’s approval is being awaited.

Odey called on other media to verify such information from the Ministry of Education before publishing, to avoid conflicting and unsubstantiated reports that are misleading to members of the public.

The Coalition of Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders in Nigeria, expressed anger over the worsening fuel scarcity in the country, and called on President Bola Tinubu to save the Nigerian masses from more sufferings.

This is also as fuel scarcity has spread across the country, with long queues being witnessed at the few filling stations dispensing the product.

The coalition, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary of the group, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, said that it was unacceptable that Nigerians would continue to spend man-hours at petrol stations even with all the assurance that came with subsidy removal.

Angered by the worsening situation, the youth leaders told President Bola Tinubu that they were running out of patience.

It could be recalled that the youths, under the aegis of Nigeria Ethnic Nationality Youth Leaders Council Worldwide had slammed a one-week resignation ultimatum on the General Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, Mele Kyari.

However, with the ultimatum ended today, Kyari remains in office as the NNPCL helmsman.

The youths said: “It is inconceivable that fuel scarcity has returned to Nigeria, even on a large scale, to such an extent that workers find it difficult to go to work.

“Those who manage to join the long queues spend hours daily and end up not even getting the product. This is no longer acceptable; the youths and indeed all Nigerians are running out of patience.

“We once again urge President Bola Tinubu to relieve the NNPCL GMD, Mele Kyari of his appointment. As today, the NNPCL remains the sole-importer of petrol and has also remained a cog in the wheel of local refining of the product.

“The time has come for the government to rise up to the occasion and give an attitude suggestive of the belief in some quarters that it was not concerned about the sufferings of the Nigerian masses.

“Kyari and his entire team should be disbanded as a matter of urgency and a new team capable of bringing in the needed reforms brought on board. This is the only way to regain the people’s confidence in the government.”

DR. Sa’id Kori Is A Prominent Figure In Nigerian Architectural Space




Dr. Sai’d Kori is an advocate for developing reliable homes and urban communities matching our current times

DR. Sa’id Kori is a prominent figure in Nigerian architectural space. He is the Group Chief Executive officer of Thinklab Group and the pioneer chairman, advisory board of BIM Africa.


Born on July 2, 1987, in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria to Alkali Kori Sa’id and Hajiya Hadia Bukar Alkali.

He attended Shehu Garbai primary School and Imam Malik Secondary School in Maiduguri where he demonstrated exceptional qualities at a very young age.

His architectural journey started in University of Science and technology Yola,
He later proceeded further in his passion in University of Salford and University of Liverpool where he obtained his PhD in Architecture.

Dr. Kori aside from being an exceptional architectect, he is a philanthropist who has awarded scholarships to over 10,000 Students across Nigeria through his foundation, Thinklab foundation.
Thinklab Charity Foundation over the years has focused on providing support for education, healthcare and community development.

Aside from practicing architecture, Dr. Kori has also impacted knowledge by teaching architecture at the University of Liverpool and Ramat Polytechnic in Maiduguri.
Dr. Kori has published many articles over the years in the course of his career which include International Journal of Latest trends in Engineering and Technology, international journal of advanced research, journal of building and environmental engineering amongst others.

Dr. Kori is a versatile individual with various skills in Architecture, Project management, sustainable development, building information modelling, Digital architectural design, team management and leadership, communication and interpersonal skills. Dr. Kori is happily married with 4 beautiful Children.

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN), firmly endorsed Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle's bold assertion that the Northern support for President Bola Tinubu remains resilient and steadfast, with expectations for this support to grow even stronger.

The NAN also pledged to solidify its backing for President Tinubu's ongoing administration and his bid for re-election, vehemently condemning the political maneuverings by certain discredited Northern politicians.

NAN, in a statement issued by its chairman, Salihu Suleiman, underscored President Tinubu's unwavering commitment to the development and security of the Northern region and emphasized the widespread recognition among Northerners of the importance of consistent leadership for sustained growth and progress.

Suleiman said: “The NAN has recognized President Tinubu as a leader who prioritizes the well-being of the Northern region and has pledged its unwavering support for his administration's success and subsequent reelection.

“The Northern youth are no longer swayed by the deceitful tactics of such opportunistic leaders. Unity and solidarity within the Northern region remain paramount, and our people must stand together in support of President Tinubu's vision for a prosperous and secure future.”

NAN highlighted concerns over an orchestrated political gang-up led by Nasir El-Rufai and Rabiu Kwankwaso, with hangers-on such as Kabiru Marafa, Danbilki Kwamanda, and Professor Dikwa.

The network condemned these actions as self-serving attempts by opportunistic politicians aimed at undermining President Tinubu's administration.

NAN praised President Tinubu's proactive measures in addressing the various challenges facing the Northern region. His engagement with the region, responsiveness to its needs, and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering growth and stability have earned him the trust and support of the Northern populace.

NAN clarified that their endorsement and denouncement of political detractors reflect a firm commitment to the welfare and interests of the Northern populace. This endorsement underscores their belief in President Tinubu's capabilities and his dedication to advancing the Northern region's development agenda.

“The NAN's endorsement of President Tinubu is grounded in the belief that his commitment to the development and security of the Northern region is evident and unwavering. We laud the president for his dedicated efforts in ensuring the region's progress and prosperity.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the NAN stands as a steadfast advocate for President Tinubu and his vision for a better future for the Northern region. Our pledge to consolidate support for the president's success in government and subsequent re-election shall lay the foundation for a unified front in the face of political challenges, ensuring that President Tinubu's transformative agenda continues to shape the Northern region's trajectory, ” NAN added.

As security Agencies warn against the planned protests around the country, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has activated its civil intelligence network, ordering its 812 offices around the country to identify incident spots and individuals nationwide involved in the planned protest.

This directive comes as the EFCC reported that certain individuals, especially those being investigated by the Commission, are mobilising youths, including school children, to stage a nationwide protest against the government.

Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, also urged parents and well-meaning Nigerians to advise their wards against getting involved in the planned protest, saying the promoters of the uprising seek to destabilise the country and cut short investigation into their nefarious activities.

While directing the 4000 staff of the agency to work hard to provide support to security agencies to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the country, it says the government will continue to provide channels for citizens' feedback on any government policies, programmes and activities.

In his words, “A group has been recruiting young Nigerians, including students, through social media to protest against the EFCC's operational activities, particularly in enforcing cybercrime laws," Issa-Onilu said.

The NOA DG, in a statement by the agency Deputy Director of Press, Mr. Paul Odenyi, noted that while the government respects citizens' right to protest, evidence suggests that corrupt elements under investigation or prosecution are behind this plot, seeking to exploit the protest and threaten national peace and security.

NOA, therefore, urges Nigerians to report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest EFCC office or law enforcement agency or reach the NOA through the "Say Something" platform on the agency's app, Mobiliser.

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has called on the federal government to strengthen anti-corruption agencies.

The coalition also condemned any move by words or actions aimed at scrapping the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, in a statement, said that EFCC had been a beacon of hope in the fight against corruption.

He call on all Nigerians to join forces in rejecting this planned protest and stand with the EFCC in its fight against corruption.

Charanchi said: “The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has been watching and observing with a very keen interest how the enemies of Nigerians are campaigning rigorously on social media to recruit young Nigerians into a planned protest against EFCC, masquerading as human rights activists.

“We strongly condemn and reject in totality any move by words or actions aimed at scrapping the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

“We will not stand idly by while notorious “Yahoo boys” and dubious Cryptocurrency merchants are disguising themselves as activists working very hard to undermine a vital anti-corruption agency like the EFCC and disturb national peace and stability.

“The CNG is fully aware that those involved in financial crimes, fraudulent activities and corruption cases, are the masterminds behind the planned protest. Their intention is to discredit and dismantle the EFCC, which has been a thorn in their flesh. The planned protest is nothing but a testimony that corruption is fighting back, which all well meaning Nigerians should stand and fight with all their might.

“The EFCC has been a beacon of hope in the fight against corruption, at this time when corruption has become the order of the day, and its achievements are glaring.

“We call on the Federal Government to strengthen the activities of the commission to enable it prosecute high-profile cases, billions of naira/dollars in looted funds, and bring corrupt officials to book.

“Nigeria needs a robust anti-graft body now more than ever, given the escalating financial crimes, official corruption, and economic sabotage. We can not contemplate a Nigeria without EFCC, considering the intense battle against corruption we’re currently facing.”

In a recent development in Zamfara state politics, the Zamfara Political Monitoring Coalition (ZPMC), has issued a scathing criticism of Senator Kabiru Marafa, saying that Marafa lack significance in the state.

The group did not hold back in their disdain for Marafa, labeling him as a discredited politician lacking credibility and significance in Zamfara's political landscape.

The coalition, in a statement by its Chairman Comrade Lawal Tanimu, has accused Senator Marafa of falsely claiming to lead a faction of the party in the state.

The accusations made by the coalition suggest that Senator Marafa's claims of leadership within the party are unfounded and misleading, raising questions about the credibility and integrity of Senator Marafa as a political leader in the state.

Labeling him as a discredited politician lacking credibility and significance, the coalition made a clear statement about their opinion of Senator Marafa's leadership abilities which is likely to have a significant impact on Senator Marafa's reputation and standing within the political community in Zamfara state.

The group pointed out that Marafa lacked influence and support among the party's heavyweights, making his claims of leadership unfounded.

The coalition called on Marafa to come to terms with his political irrelevance and accept the reality that his career as a politician was over.

The group went on to accuse Marafa of being the cause of the party's woeful failure in the 2019 elections. They claimed that his divisive tactics and lack of leadership had contributed to the party's downfall, leading to a loss of support among voters.

They urged Marafa to step aside and allow more capable leaders to take the reins, in order to salvage the party's reputation and chances of success in future elections.

“Our statement is a stark reminder of the harsh realities of politics. In a landscape where credibility and influence are paramount, Marafa's lack of both has left him isolated and ineffective.”

The Nigeria Ethnic Nationality Youth Leaders Council Worldwide, given the Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, Mele Kyari, to address the crude oil controversy within seven days.

It could be re-called that last week, the group at a press conference in Abuja, accused the Kyari-led NNPCL of sabotaging the take-off of local refineries, including the Dangote refinery.

The group, in a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary of the group. Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, vowed to cripple the country with a protest if Kyari failed to resign within seven days.

The youth leaders said they would not continue to watch Nigerians face avoidable sufferings owing to the actions of a tiny cabal.

They urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack Kyari if he failed to resign within seven days.

According to them, “We are making this demand in the light of the endless controversy surrounding crude oil supply in Nigeria. We cannot continue to boast to be a major oil producer, yet our people are facing acute scarcity of petroleum products on a daily basis.

“The delayed take-off of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, as well as the sabotage of the Dangote refinery is responsible for this hardship Nigeians are facing.

“There is every indication that the subsidy cabal is not ready to let go; this is why we demand that the NNPCL GMD must resign within seven days.

“The President, who happens to be the minister of petroleum should also order a forensic audit of the NNPCL accounts.

“This is necessary as we cannot understand why it has become to meet up with the OPEC quota, which is always blamed on oil theft; this is suspect and should be scrutinized by private auditors.

"It is disgraceful, inconceivable and unacceptable to hear that crude oil will have to be imported into the country from the United States of America for the take-off of the local refineries.

“Should Kyari remain in office after one week, we shall have no other option than to occupy the streets pending when the needful is done,” the group warned.

The Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa), has launched a ‘Voices of Children from the Pits’ program to help the vulnerable children in mining communities and take them out the hazardous sites.


WiM-Africa also implemented partners from Malawi, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Mali, and South Africa, with other delegates joined from Angola, DRCongo, Sirea Leone, London and the United States of America.

Speaking during the launch in Abuja, the Executive Director of Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa), Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, said that partners with others share their implementation plans and highlighted their track records in advocating for the rights and welfare of women and children.

She said: “The launch of the 'Voices of Children from the Pits' program marks a significant milestone in our mission to protect and empower the most vulnerable children in our mining communities.

“The program will not only remove children from hazardous mine sites but will also engage stakeholders in raising awareness and gathering critical data about the children affected.

“Our collective work with implementing partners across Africa is crucial in driving sustainable change and ensuring the well-being of women and children in the mining sector.”

Also speaking, the Program Coordinator at Richflood Foundation, Dr. Adeola Adewale Olajugbagbe, said, “We are excited to collaborate with WiM-Africa on the 'Voices of Children from the Pits' program here in Nigeria.

“This initiative is a vital step towards eradicating child labor in mines, fostering safe and supportive environments for our children, and engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. No child should be found working at the mines.

“Our commitment to this cause is unwavering, and we look forward to seeing the positive changes this program will bring.”

In attendance at the strategic meeting were representatives from Women in Mining Africa, Richflood Foundation, and media organizations. Pictured from right to left: Mrs. Elizabeth Mbagho, Program Coordinator at Women in Mining Africa; Mr. Francis Kadiri; Dr. Comfort Asokoro-Ogaji, Executive Director at Women in Mining Africa (WiM-Africa); Dr. Adeola-Adewale Olajugbagbe, Program Coordinator at Richflood Foundation; and Mrs. Rita Babatunde, Gender Specialist at Richflood Foundation, in the Asokoro Office in Abuja.

By Sabitu Magaji



The demographic, economic, and climatic shifts have transformed cities and urban centres which are now the dominant habitats of Nigerians. The mode of urban development has a direct bearing on the processes leading to the attainment of sustainable development. It is critical for Nigeria to promote reliable urbanization models. As natural resources are depleting globally, cities of emerging economies are becoming the drivers of the global economy. Reliable spatial frameworks and models for urban areas and government policies constitute a key factor for delivering consistent sustainable development to meet our increasing economic activities.


Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a collaborative way for multidisciplinary information storing, sharing, exchanging, and managing throughout the entire building project lifecycle including planning, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and demolition phase (Eastman et al., 2011; Eadie et al., 2013). This digital modelling has provided designers and builders with new opportunities to achieve better quality buildings at lower cost and shorter project duration thus enhancing rapid, quality development.


Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital working method that uses virtual digital 3D models as the basis for planning, designing, constructing, managing and operating projects. The 3D models contain more than just graphical information, allowing properties to be attached to each building component (such as material type, performance data, and cost, for example.) In effect, the models become a central repository of all relevant project information that can be shared amongst the entire project team. BIM can be used for any type of project, not just buildings – bridges, roads, and other infrastructure projects can all benefit from using BIM.


Architectural space has gone through many developments throughout history influenced by technology and building techniques on the one hand and by functional and environmental issues and human factors on the other hand. When technologies develop, architecture evolves as well: the architectural techniques change, as does the architectural outcome. The digital revolution reflected on architecture, as did other scientific and life fields. The architectural production became the product of an intelligent design process directly influenced by the digital community in general. As the country digitalises, so must our architectural approach.


Some progressive thinking urbanists in the country like Arc. Sai'd Kori of Borno state are propagating the use of modern architectural design and Building Information Modelling (BIM) to bring the most sustainable structural and urban concepts and designs to reality. Arc. Sai'd Kori is a specialist in these areas having earned M.Sc. in Digital Architectural Design from University of Salford, Manchester, UK and a Ph.D. in Architecture with research focus on sustainable urban development from the University of Liverpool, UK. With his background in academia and business, Dr. Sai'd Kori is an advocate for developing reliable homes and urban communities matching our current times.


Nigeria must urgently find ways to achieve economic and social growth without further cost to the environment. Reliable cities attract investments, generate jobs and create wealth. Prioritizing reliable urbanization can ensure sustainable production and consumption of our resources, preparedness for natural disasters, and preservation of our infrastructures.


Environmental friendliness is next to godliness. Urbanization can be detrimental to sustainable development and also the aimed reduction in per capita greenhouse gas emissions when it is not properly managed.


Reliable urbanization is one of the few solutions for effectively dealing with our population explosion. Nigeria is in need of urban patterns that aren't chaotic to handle infrastructural development and expansion as simply as possible. Housing strategies, befitting infrastructural plans, slums prevention strategies, and jobs creation are vital in attaining reliable urban communities. Consequently, more jobs creation, climate change adaptation, and improved quality of life are better achieved in properly managed urban communities.

By Sabitu Magaji


Dr. Said Kori is a prominent figure in Nigerian architectural space. He is the Group Chief Executive officer of Thinklab Group and the pioneer chairman, advisory board of BIM Africa.

Born on July 2, 1987, in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria to Alkali Kori Sa’id and Hajiya Hadia Bukar Alkali. He attended Shehu Garbai primary School and Imam Malik Secondary School in Maiduguri where he demonstrated exceptional qualities at a very young age.

His architectural journey started in University of Science and technology Yola,
He later proceeded further in his passion in University of Salford and University of Liverpool where he obtained his PhD in Architecture.

Dr. Kori aside from being an exceptional architectect, he is a philanthropist who has awarded scholarships to over 10,000 Students across Nigeria through his foundation, Thinklab foundation.
Thinklab Charity Foundation over the years has focused on providing support for education, healthcare and community development.

Aside from practicing architecture, Dr. Kori has also impacted knowledge by teaching architecture at the University of Liverpool and Ramat Polytechnic in Maiduguri.
Dr. Kori has published many articles over the years in the course of his career which include International Journal of Latest trends in Engineering and Technology, international journal of advanced research, journal of building and environmental engineering amongst others.

Dr. Kori is a versatile individual with various skills in Architecture, Project management, sustainable development, building information modelling, Digital architectural design, team management and leadership, communication and interposonal Skill. Dr. Kori is happily married with 4 beautiful Children.

The Apex umbrella body for the over 407 Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders in Nigeria, has accused the General Managing Director, GMD/CEO, of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, Mele Kyari, of sabotaging the fixing of indigenous refineries to the benefit of the subsidy cartel.

They called for the immediate sack of the General Managing Director, GMD/CEO, of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, Mele Kyari.

President General of the group, Comrade Terry Obeih, disclosed this in Abuja, at a press briefing, describing the situation as "unacceptable" and accused the Kyari-led NNPCL of sabotaging the smooth take-off of both the government-owned refinery and the Dangote group-owned refinery.


The youth leaders, while describing the situation as unacceptable, said it was strange that all the hopes the citizens placed on the Dangote refinery to bring down the cost of fuel were being frustrated.



This formed part of a communique issued by the Nigeria Ethnic Nationality Youth Leaders Council Worldwide on Tuesday after their meeting in Abuja.


The communique made available to journalists was endorsed by Comrade Terry Obeih, President General, Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders/NENYLCW, Alhaji Balarabe Rufai, President, Northern Youth Congress / Vice President, NENYLCW, Aare Oladotun Hassan Esq, President, Yoruba Council of Youths Worldwide/ Secretary General, NENYLCW, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, National President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide/ Publicity Secretary, NENYLCW, Comrade Emmanuel Zopmal, President, Middle-Belt Youth Council/ Organising Secretary, NENYLCW and Alhaji Hamisu Dass, President, North-East Youth Assembly/Treasurer, NENYLCW.

This stand is coming amid outcry by Devakumar Edwin, the Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), that International Oil Companies, IOCs, were frustrating the Dangote Refinery's commencement of fuel supply by selling crude oil at higher prices.


Edwin said the IOCs were intentionally obstructing the refinery’s efforts to purchase local crude by inflating premium prices above market rates, compelling the refinery to import crude from distant countries like the United States, leading to significantly higher costs.

Obeih said: “We met today, Tuesday, the 25th day of June, 2024 and reviewed the economic situation in the country as it affects the common masses.

“After a thorough analysis of the situation, it is our considered finding that the NNPCL is sabotaging the effort of the government towards making fuel affordable for Nigerians. There is a serious matter considering that Nigeria is operating a mono-economy, and as such whatever happens to fuel price, has a spiral effect.

“We want to start by recalling that earlier in March this year, the NNPCL MD, Mele Kyayi, promised Nigerians that within two weeks, the Port Harcourt refinery would begin production.

“The MD, who gave that assurance during his appearance before the Senate ad-hoc committee that was investigating the Nigerian Refineries' Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) Projects, went as far as stating that more than 450,000 barrels of oil were stored at the Port Harcourt refinery.

“We did a mechanical completion of the refinery; that was what we said in December. We now have crude oil already stocked in the refinery. We are doing regulatory compliance tests that must happen in every refinery before you start it, and I assure you that this Port Harcourt refinery will start in the next two weeks. Completing the mechanical work means that you are done with the rehabilitation work, now you have to test to see how it works.

“Of course, we have also completed the mechanical work on the Warri refinery. It is also undergoing regulatory compliance; processes that we are doing with our regulator, and this will soon be completed and it will be ready. Lastly, all the crude lines supplying crude to Port Harcourt and Warri are very active and we have delivered over 450, 000 barrels of oil into Port Harcourt refinery. We are confident of the integrity of it. There may be security issues, but the government is responding to that.’


“We then find it so strange that three months after that vague promise, there is no sign that the refinery would begin operation any time soon. To make the matters worse, just a few days ago, Mr Devakumar Edwin, the Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), accused International Oil Companies, IOCs, of frustrating the Dangote Refinery's commencement of fuel supply by selling crude oil at higher prices.


“Edwin emphatically said that the IOCs were intentionally obstructing the refinery’s efforts to purchase local crude by inflating premium prices above market rates, compelling the refinery to import crude from distant countries like the United States, leading to significantly higher costs.


“These are not matters to be swept under the carpet; they are both interconnected and have to be addressed by the Federal Government. The indices point that a certain cabal in the NNPCL has vowed never to allow local refinery of petroleum products in Nigeria, all in a bid to remain as the sole importer of the commodity and exploit Nigerians.


“We declare today that enough is enough; Nigerians have suffered enough, whereas a few people are feeding fat. The liberalization of the petroleum industry was meant to be a blessing to the country but the reverse is the case, this is not to talk of the PIB which also talks of giving consideration to local refineries, but none of this is happening.”


The youth groups said since the NNPCL had shown lack of capacity to manage the industry, “the only honourable thing for Mela Kyari, the MD to do is to resign. However, should he fail to do so, we urge the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack him without further delay.


"Should Kyari fail to resign, the youths will not hesitate to mobilize for a national protest that will shut down the country if that is the only way to rescue Nigeria.


“It is clear that NNPCL under Kyari is bent on frustrating the President’s economic agenda, thereby worsening the suffering of the citizens and this is not good for the government. The NNPCL is clearly frustrating indigenous refining of fuel in order to continue importation, which is benefiting the subsidy cartel.


"The National Assembly led by Senator Godswill Akpabio should immediately within 7 days summon the courage to probe Mr Mele Kyari led NNPCL.


"We know that once we have our own local petroleum production refineries working at full capacity, where our local crude oil will be supplied directly to the aforementioned refineries either privately or government owned, the suffering of the masses will be alleviated. As we reaffirm our support for Mr President, it is our hope that he will take this bold action in the interest of the country.”

By Suleiman Abbah

In today's world, safety and security are paramount concerns for communities at all levels. Governments play a crucial role in ensuring the protection of their citizens, but often need to rely on grassroots participation to effectively address the diverse and ever-evolving security challenges faced by communities.

The security situation in Zamfara is currently at a critical crossroads, with Governor Dauda Lawal Dare seemingly at odds over how to address the ongoing challenges. Since assuming office, Governor Lawal has consistently failed to go beyond lamentations and cooperate with Nigerian federal security agencies, preferring to engage in perpetual complain, blame games, and finger-pointing instead of actively seeking solutions to combat the terrorist activities plaguing Zamfara state.


Governor Lawal's approach to security issues in Zamfara calls into question his leadership abilities and commitment to the safety and well-being of the citizens of the state. Rather than working collaboratively with security agencies to develop effective strategies to combat terrorism, he has chosen to engage in political posturing and shifting the blame onto others.


The lack of proactive measures and decisive action on the part of Governor Lawal has only served to exacerbate the security challenges facing Zamfara. His failure to take responsibility and provide strong leadership in the face of these threats has left the people of Zamfara feeling vulnerable and abandoned.

His attitude has significantly hindered the military's counter-terrorism efforts, putting the lives and safety of citizens at risk not only in Zamfara but also in neighboring states. While other governors in affected states are actively supporting the nation's troops and implementing initiatives to combat insecurity, Governor Lawal appears more focused on blaming his predecessor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and criticizing the federal government.

Lawal's constant complaints against the presidency and federal security agencies have diverted attention from pressing security and governance issues in the state. His remarks are often riddled with inaccuracies and a blatant disregard for the truth, further exacerbating the security challenges in Zamfara.

In just one year, Governor Lawal has earned a reputation for leading the worst administration in Zamfara's history, lacking the necessary courage and political will to confront the state's security crisis. Despite claiming concern for the challenges facing Zamfara citizens, Lawal has failed to take concrete steps to address youth unemployment, insecurity, and poverty in the state.

Zamfara is currently led by a governor ill-prepared and ill-equipped to lead, driven by personal ambition for power and wealth rather than a genuine commitment to improving the lives of its people. As a result, Zamfara citizens continue to suffer from rampant armed crime, extreme poverty, and a lack of support from their government.

It appears that till the end of his tenure, Lawal cannot rise to the occasion and demonstrate true leadership in addressing the security challenges facing Zamfara. He cannot move beyond mere words and take concrete actions to ensure the safety and security of all residents of the state. This failure has only further escalate the security crisis and put more lives at risk. Only through genuine leadership and a commitment to the welfare of its people can Zamfara overcome its current security crisis and emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.

This is evident in the comparison between Defence Minister Bello Matawalle and Governor Lawal, two figures in Zanfara State politics. While Matawalle has established himself as a seasoned politician with a profound insight into the needs and concerns of the local communities, Governor Lawal, a relative newcomer to the political arena, seems to lack the same level of understanding and connection to people in the state.

Lawal's predecessor, Matawalle, now serving as a federal Minister of State for Defence, has been hailed for his innovative approach to engaging local communities in finding solutions to the state's security issues. His deep understanding of the grassroots dynamics and culture of the state has earned him the moniker of a 'grassroots innovator'.

Matawalle's approach, which incorporates a bottom-up feedback loop and involves stakeholders at the local level, has proven to be effective in identifying and addressing the specific security and safety needs of communities in Zamfara. By combining local knowledge with government resources, Matawalle has been able to implement innovative security strategies that are responsive to the ever-changing political and environmental landscape of the state.

Matawalle has recognized the vital role that grassroots play in enhancing community safety and security. He understands that the affected communities are naturally and legitimately the first responders to crises and are best positioned to identify the most pressing security issues facing their communities. By partnering with the grassroots, Matawalle has gained valuable insights into the local context and ensured that their interventions are truly responsive to community needs.

One key advantage of working with the grassroots as Matawalle has shown, is the ability to establish community ownership over security. When communities are actively involved in the design and implementation of security solutions, they are more likely to embrace and sustain these initiatives in the long run. Additionally, grassroots serve as bridges between government forces and the communities on the ground, providing valuable feedback and ensuring that interventions are tailored to local realities.

Matawalle believes that innovation in security does not always have to be synonymous with the use of force; it can also involve improving processes or policies to better meet the security needs of communities. The key to Matawalle's successful security innovation lies in building trust, fostering resilience, and maintaining open lines of communication between all stakeholders involved. By supporting grassroots organizations and empowering local communities, Matawalle aims to ensure that their solutions are truly impactful and sustainable in the long term.

In contrast, Governor Lawal, a relatively new player in the political arena, appears to lack the same level of insight and connection to the local communities that Matawalle possesses. This has led to a disconnect between grassroots participation in security matters in areas of information sharing and government policies, hindering progress in addressing the security situation.

Matawalle's experience and long-standing presence in the political scene have allowed him to build strong relationships with the local communities in his state. This connection has enabled him to effectively gauge the security challenges faced by the people and tailor his policies accordingly. His approach to security matters has been characterized by a high level of grassroots participation, with communities actively engaged in information sharing and the formulation of government initiatives. As a result, progress has been made in addressing the security situation in the state.

On the other hand, Governor Lawal's lack of political experience and connection to the local communities has hindered his ability to effectively address security challenges in his state. His disconnect from the grassroots has resulted in a lack of community participation in security matters, leading to gaps in information sharing and ineffective government policies. This has ultimately hindered progress in addressing the security situation in the state, as the government is unable to adequately respond to the needs and concerns of the people.

Matawalle's deep insight and connection to the local communities have played a significant role in addressing security challenges in Zamfara state. In contrast, Governor Lawal's lack of experience and disconnect from the grassroots have impeded progress in addressing security issues.

Matawalle's approach in partnering with these organizations demonstrates the importance of involving communities in the security decision-making process. By empowering grassroots organizations and fostering community ownership over security initiatives, governments can enhance their ability to address security challenges effectively and sustainably.

The collaboration between grassroots organizations and government entities such as Matawalle's innovative approach to security highlights the importance of local engagement in addressing complex challenges. By leveraging local knowledge, building community ownership, and fostering partnerships between different stakeholders, innovators can create meaningful change that is truly responsive to the needs of the people they serve.

It is evident that a strong connection to the local communities is essential in effective governance, particularly in addressing security matters. As such, it is imperative for Governor Lawal to prioritize building relationships with his constituents in order to address pressing security issues and promote sustainable development. Ultimately, the success of safety and security initiatives relies on the active involvement and support of grassroots organizations, as they are essential partners in creating safe and secure communities.

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, has described as unacceptable a proposal to create Orlu State out of the present Imo State.

It could be recalled that the bill, sponsored by Hon. Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu, member representing Ideato Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has already passed first reading.

National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, in a statement, urged the National Assembly to jettison any plan to create Orlu State.

Okwu, who described it as an invitation to chaos in the South-East, said it negates the spirit of equity and justice.

He said whereas the South-East was desirous of an additional state to be at par with other regions, the proponents of Orlu State were championing a selfish and divisive agenda, which would only worsen the cries of marginalization in the zone.

He said: “The National Confab report, which was endorsed by Nigerians from across the country remains a guide towards the total reform of Nigeria, including state creation.

“In that report, there was a clear mention of Etiti State, which has a representation of every part of the South-East. There is nothing like the Orlu State in the Confab report.

“The proposed Etiti State encompasses parts of all the 5 existing states of the South East. They include: Orumba South, Orumba North (Anambra); Awgu, Aninri, Oji River (Enugu); Afikpo North, Afikpo South, Ivo (Ebonyi), Ehime Mbano, Okigwe, Onuimo (Imo), as well as Umunneochi and Isuikwuato (Abia).

“It is, therefore, unthinkable for anyone to wake up one day and plot to thwart the general interest of the South-East in pursuit of a selfish agenda.”

Okwu cautioned that the rejection the said Orlu State had already received was a clear indication that “it is self-serving, lacks inclusivity, and proper consultation.

“We urge the National Assembly not drag itself into such a legislation that is capable of setting the South-East on fire. It should rather channel its energy towards the creation of Etiti State, which is long overdue, and in doing so, posterity will judge them fairly.

“The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide equally calls on the sponsor of the bill to withdraw it from further legislative action as it is not only provocative but incendiary.”

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), has called for sober reflection on Nigeria’s democracy and democratisation process as Nigeria marks 2024 Democracy Day.

They also pointed out the troubling rise in inflation and interest rates, saying that the rise which was inflation 10%, now hitting 33.69% and interest rates climbing from 6.05% in 1999 to 26.25% in 2024.

National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade. Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, in a statement, observed that democracy as it is being practiced in Nigeria has failed to provide its dividends to the people after two and a half decades of its practice.

The group said that despite the nation’s richness in natural and human resources, Nigerians continue to suffer from abject poverty and economic instability, which were not recorded even during military dictatorships.

It would be recalled that the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the poverty rate in Nigeria stands at an alarming 63%, with over 133 million Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty.

Similarly, the NBS disclosed that unemployment has reached a stunning 33.3% in the country, while youth unemployment is at an unprecedented over 50%, leaving young Nigerians devoid of decent jobs or sustainable means of livelihood.

He said: “In the same vein, before returning to democracy, Nigeria’s inflation was just 10%, while now in a free democratic setting, inflation has risen to an all-time high of 33.69%, depleting people's purchasing power and weakening their standard of living; whereas interest rate has sharply risen from 6.05% in 1999 to 26.25% in 2024, suggesting tighter monetary policy in the midst of high inflation and economic challenges.

“It is on record that the number of out-of-school children has increased from 7.4 million in 1999 to 18.5 million in 2024, highlighting a severe decline in educational accessibility over the past 25 years of our democratic engagements.

“Disgustingly, job racketeering to the highest bidder, inflating contracts, and kickback collection by political elites and senior civil servants have irrevocably decayed our civil service at all levels, resulting in the destruction of the fabric of Nigeria as a country with a lot of potential.”

The CNG argued that these economic challenges are a direct result of years of mismanagement, corruption, and lack of genuine commitment to the development of the Nigerian economy by those who have sworn by the holy scriptures to promote good governance.

Charanchi added, “Unfortunately, over the years, the Nigerian economy has been bastardized and surrendered to the Bretton Wood institutions of the IMF and World Bank through the removal of subsidies in healthcare, education, energy, etc. Consequently, unpatriotic leaders and capitalist-backed technocrats who continued to propagate a free-market economy devoid of government interventions suddenly lose their voices and relevance.

“The minimum wage has drastically decreased in value from the equivalent of $195 in 1981 to only $21.22 today, indicating a substantial erosion of purchasing power and economic hardship for low-income workers.

“Fuel prices have seen a dramatic increase from N20 per liter in 1999 to N701.24 per liter in 2024, reflecting severe inflation and apparent antipeople economic policies from the beneficiaries of democracy since 1999. Diesel prices have surged to N1415.06 in 2024, which is significantly higher than in 1999, indicating a steep rise in energy costs.

“It is evident, therefore, that democracy in Nigeria only works for politicians and senior civil servants, while Nigerians continue to languish in poverty and misery. Suffice it to say that politicians, senior civil servants, and top defense and security heads have not only cornered the country to serve them but also are deploying their amassed wealth to restrict the dividends of democracy in Nigeria.

“It is regrettable that under democratic dispensation, destitution and pauperization have been deliberately entrenched in Nigeria due to the relegation of our economic planning and strategies to the dictates of capitalist, neoliberal, racist, and imperial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).”

The CNG observed that the exchange rate of our Naira against the US dollar has depreciated drastically from N84.70 in 1999 to N1,479.69 in 2024, pointing to severe devaluation of the currency; public debt has escalated from around N3 trillion in 1999 to N97.34 trillion in 2024, highlighting a significant increase in the country’s borrowing and debt burden.

He noted that prior to our return to democracy in 1999, oil production had decreased from 2.21 million barrels per day (bpd) to 1.28 million bpd in 2024, indicating a decline in one of our major sources of revenue.

“Tragically, according to the United Nations, over 35,000 have been killed in the North East insurgency under the watchful eyes of the leaders that claim to promote democracy. In the same vein, Global Observatory said about 15,000 have been killed in the North West alone.

“Additionally, millions of people, including women and children, have been rendered internally displaced persons (IDPs). This unprecedented catastrophe has been normalized in Nigeria’s democracy.

“It is rather despicable that our democracy in Nigeria has been hijacked by a select few who prioritize their personal gain over the collective good of the nation. Corruption is endemic, and accountability is almost non-existent, deeply entrenched in our political system.

“As we observe this Democracy Day, the CNG calls on all Nigerians to reflect on the state of our nation and question the effectiveness of our democratic system. It is evident that democracy, in its current form, has failed to deliver on its promises of development, security, and prosperity for all Nigerians, as only a select few politicians and senior civil servants amass questionable wealth while bequeathing depravity to the masses.

“Therefore, as Nigeria marks 25 years of continuous democratic sojourn, we must engage in a candid reflection to domesticate this democracy or design a system that aligns with our tradition, culture, and history, which is capable of providing security, promoting economic development, and fostering true people’s participation.”

A Minstrel RubySteph, a Nigerian gospel music minister and a songwriter, Stephanie Tayado Kolawole, has revealed that the Holy Spirit is her greatest motivation and inspiration in her music career.

RubySteph is not only known for singing, she is also an entrepreneur spreading faith and the love for Christ through music and business.

Stephanie, disclosed this in Abuja, during a media interaction, when she relies on the Holy Spirit's guidance and direction in making decisions and taking steps in her musical journey.

She also emphasized the importance of seeking divine guidance, especially in a field like music where timing and direction are crucial. “If you depend on your own wisdom, you might want to do something, but it may not be the right time."

She recently released Beautiful, 'Babban Mai Magani', a Hausa hymn that once filled her mother's heart with joy and solace. As its gentle notes dance through the air, may carry the essence of her unwavering faith and the warmth of her love, touching every soul with blessings and serenity.

While speaking in excitement about how the Holy Spirit has continued to guide her in her music career, she said: “I think one of my greatest motivations or inspiration is the Holy Spirit's. He is always there to guide us and give us directions of what to do.

“How to go about these things because sometimes if you depend on your own wisdom, you might want to do something and it may not be time for you to do it. Like I have been doing music. I have never released anything till last year.

“So I always wait for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the director of my heart. I know sometimes it doesn't just speak oh, my daughter, my daughter, He can come through your thoughts and he can interest your heart, take this step to this. So basically mostly is the leading of the Holy Spirit.

“I have always been someone who is passionate about making an impact. So my singing is not so much about making money. It doesn't mean that you cannot make money from music because it's your gift. It's value. You're given a value and you get value in return.

“But for me it's not the goal. My goal is to impact lives through my music. That is what my soul aims for, and each time I go to sing my first goal or expectation is for lives to be perpetual through my music, for my music to speak to the lives of people.”

Her vision includes traveling to African countries and around the world, sharing her music and message of hope, and making a positive impact through community outreaches and development projects. “I see myself touring, touring, and doing what I love to do, and just being a blessing across nations.

“Music is something that people see, but community outreach and development are just as important to me."

The melody is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the enduring power of faith, echoing the legacy of a beloved mother and inspiring hearts to embrace the divine grace that surrounds us.

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, has distanced itself from a planned protest against the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and its chairman, Prof Yakubu Mahmood.

The Igbo group urged the Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate during the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi to accept the outcome of the polls and move on.

The group, in a statement by the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, said it was regrettable that over one year after the 2023 general elections, many politicians in the country had refused to move on.

Recall that a group, South Unity Youth Coalition, had earlier announced a mass protest on June 12, Democracy Day, to demand the removal of Professor Mahmoud Yakubu as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The coalition believes that Professor Yakubu’s leadership has severely compromised the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.

On his part, Obi had on Saturday while reacting to South-Africa's presidential election, said the last general election was plagued with fraud and widespread irregularities.

While reacting to the plans protest, Okwu said one would have expected politicians to at this point join hands with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu government to move the country forward.

He said: “Instead, what we have continued to see is that politicians and some of their paid agents have continued to fan embers of discord in the country owing to the outcome of the elections.

“We have said for the umpteenth time that there is no perfect election anywhere in the world. Our appeal to our brother, His Excellency Mr Peter Obi is to accept not just the outcome of the election, but the verdict of the apex court in the land, the Supreme Court.

“In the case of the 2023 election, without sounding biased, it is a wrong conclusion for anyone to say that the INEC performed woefully. This cannot be so, when the court upheld the majority of the election and in some of the cases where elections were annulled, it had to do with candidates’ qualifications and some other issues that could not be blamed on the INEC.”

Okwu called on those planning any kind of protest to drop the idea, stressing that “Igbo youths are not going to be lured into such a selfish agenda aimed at heating up the polity.

“Rather, we remain firmly behind President Bola Tinubu’s government and INEC. We welcome further reforms to the electoral process through the National Assembly. However, any form of protest, we are not going to be a party to it and those behind the plot should jettison it.”

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The Northern Awareness Network (NAN), has knocked recent comparison made by the Labour Party's defeated presidential candidate in Nigeria's 2023 elections Peter Obi, between the electoral processes of Nigeria and South Africa.

They argued that Peter Obi's attempt to juxtapose the electoral experiences of these two countries demonstrates a lack of understanding of their respective political landscapes.

The NAN chairman, Salihu Suleiman, emphasized in the statement that the two nations have vastly different political histories and contexts, making any such comparisons by Peter Obi unreasonable and misleading.

He said: “South Africa has a long history of democracy, having gone through significant political reform and transformation over several decades of practice. On the other hand, Nigeria only transitioned to democracy in 1999 after years of military rule.

“It is clear that Peter Obi's attempt to compare the electoral processes of South Africa and Nigeria is quite ridiculous," he said. "The two countries are at different stages of democratic development, and it would be more prudent to focus on addressing the specific challenges facing the Nigerian electoral system rather than drawing unwarranted comparisons.”

NAN pointed out that the Nigerian electoral system is still in its infancy and that comparing it to South Africa's more mature democracy is not only inaccurate but also unfair to the people of Nigeria, who have been working diligently to build a functioning democracy.

Despite the challenges confronted by Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), NAN commended the commission for its commendable strides in ensuring the conduct of credible, free, and fair elections. Over the past 27 years, Nigeria has enjoyed uninterrupted democracy and peaceful transitions, a testament to INEC's commitment to upholding democratic principles.

He added, “INEC has taken proactive measures to address these challenges by implementing various reforms and adopting new technologies to ensure transparency and accountability in the electoral process.”

He highlighted Nigeria’s vast geographical expanse and extensive population as significant challenges to conducting elections smoothly, yet acknowledged INEC's innovations in logistical planning and collaborations with relevant stakeholders to meet these challenges effectively.

Further illustrating INEC's progress, NAN pointed to the enhancement of voter education and public awareness campaigns, which have increased civic participation and informed voters about their rights and responsibilities. Using social media, radio, and television, INEC has managed to reach millions of Nigerians, providing comprehensive electoral education.

In an admonition to Peter Obi, NAN detailed South Africa's historical and recent electoral irregularities, underscoring that the country has faced its own significant electoral challenges. “During the apartheid era, elections were manipulated to disenfranchise the majority of the population. Post-apartheid, South Africa has still encountered issues such as voter fraud, ballot tampering, voter intimidation, and questionable campaign financing.

NAN emphasizing that neither country is free from electoral issues. “In recent years, there have been concerns about the influence of money in politics, with allegations of illicit campaign financing and corruption. The 2019 elections were marred by reports of double voting and discrepancies in the voter registration process.”

Suleiman called on Nigerian politicians, including Peter Obi, to acknowledge the unique challenges facing Nigeria's electoral system and work towards addressing them instead of making false equivalences with countries that have a more entrenched democratic tradition.

He called for a focus on constructive measures to improve Nigeria’s electoral system and encourages political leaders to acknowledge and address these challenges head-on rather than resorting to impractical comparisons.

Former National Vice President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, comrade Isa Tijjani, has expressed its disappointment with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) over its recent strike action.

The veterans also called for an investigation into these actions, which they deemed criminal and in violation of International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.

Tijjani, who is also the former National Deputy President and National Union of Petroleum Workers, in a press statement, condemned the strike's violent tactics, which they described as ‘treasonable felony.'

He alleged that the striking labour leaders engaged in forceful eviction of citizens from their offices, employed arm-twisting tactics, and brought down the national grid, causing harm to the economy and citizens.

He said: “We are miffed by the apparent treasonable felony committed by the striking Labour leaders in bringing down the National grid, stopping citizens from going about their legitimate businesses, forceful eviction of law abiding citizens from their offices and employment of force and arm twisting tactics on people to abide by the strike. All these should be investigated and appropriate actions taken.

“Agitations for minimum wage is a legitimate right however, the means and method used in undertaking the strike is not only unfair but criminal and against ratifying ILO conventions which is aimed at protecting essential service sectors in any given economy from such disruption.

“Our earlier caution against using the congress as a Platform for Partisan Politics has gone unheeded and the consequences are here for all to see.

“The Penchant to opt for strike as the first option in settling labour disputes is inimical even to the interest of workers in whose name the strike was embarked upon in the first place.

“This demonstrate lack of seriousness and deep reflection on the side of congress leadership for always swinging into acting before they think. Such actions are inimical to well known norms and practices of the labor movement and should be stopped forthwith.

“We want to highlight Ajaero’s actions which are aimed at dragging the congress into muddy waters of ethnicity, political partisanship and self-aggrandizement which has been there for long. We had cause to highlight thisissues since 2023 and will continue to do so.”

The North Central Citizens Council (NCCC), has condemned in strong terms what they described as ‘reckless agitation’ by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and her counterpart Trade Union Congress (TUC) for demanding an increase in the minimum wage of Nigerian workers.

They described the labour unions' demands as "unpatriotic" and ‘unrealistic,’ considering the current economic challenges facing the country.

NCCC, in a statement, by its Coordinator, Comrade Mohammed Eneji, urged the labour unions to consider the potential consequences of their actions on the nation's economy and the welfare of Nigerian citizens.

He said: “The leadership of the NCCC termed the efforts by the labour unions in forcing the federal government to succumb to their terms in the negotiation process as inhuman and selfish as this will have an adverse effect on the common man who doesn't earn salary or wage.

“If these negotiations for increase in the minimum wage of workers is jacked up without considering the adverse effect it will have on the ordinary citizens of the country, especially those living in the rural areas, then the efforts will be counterproductive and useless.

“Many state Governors are still battling to pay the 30,000 minimum wage as it was till date, how then do we think that the Governments both at State and Local Government levels will be able to pay the minimum wage of 60,000 and above?

“The labour movement is obviously not putting Nigeria and Nigerians first in this process of the negotiation and as such, NCCC is demanding that the labour review and consider the plight of the larger percentage of Nigerians who are not under the payroll of the government nor the private sector, as this percentage of Nigerians constitute the largest population of workforce in Nigeria compared to those under government who are less than 1% of the entire Nigerian population.

“We also demand that the Labor be flexible by looking at the bigger picture as this demand of theirs will further heighten the inflation rate in the country and also increase the unemployment rate , for as a result of the increase in the minimum wage, many multinationals and government agencies at state level May result into downsizing the personnel on their payroll due to inability to pay the new wage.

“The cumulative effect will exacerbate the problems instead of addressing it. The development expected by the states and local government will be in sharp decline when states make use of 60 to 70% of revenue generated to pay salaries of workers while the infrastructure and the economy of such states is left in jeopardy.”

The Director-General of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has said the new National Anthem is a powerful symbol of national identity and a unifying force for all Nigerians.

Issa-Oninlu, stated this in Abuja, during a press briefing, stressed that the pledge is still in force and remains a vital tool for promoting patriotism and national unity.

He emphasized that the agency is committed to educating citizens about the anthem's significance and promoting its recitation with pride and respect.

He said: “The National Anthem is part of the National Identity project of the Tinubu administration, being one of the seven programmes for the institutionalisation of our national values.

“The Anthem is one of the country’s national symbols, which NOA as custodian, is mandated to promote and preserve its integrity for national cohesion, unity and a sense of patriotism."

While clearing doubts about the correct lyrics as contained in the Act signed by the President, he called on Nigerians to understand the line three (3) of the first stanza, which reads: Though tribes and tongues may differ. Note that the words “tribes” and “tongues” are in plural. We want you to also note that line five (5) of the first stanza reads: Nigerians all, are proud to serve”. The word “are”, not “and” is correct.

He added, “On the official instrumental and audio rendition, the NOA will call for entries for the production of an authentic Nigerian melody, taking into cognisance, the indigenous instrumentation of the Nigerian people.

“The effective date for the entries and the procedure will be announced through NOA channels in the coming week. Regarding questions about national prayer, the NOA will follow the official procedure to obtain approval for the adoption of a new National Prayer.

“The National Pledge remain valid, operational. The NOA’s values orientation programmes as envisioned under the Federal Government’s National Values Charter, seek to define the Nigerian citizens’ shared identity, with clearly stated commitment of both leaders and followers.

“The Charter, operating under the “7 for 7” social contract will guide our national values for a reciprocal commitment of leaders and citizens towards building a nation we all can be proud of.

“NOA will be working with a wide spectrum of stakeholders to ensure citizens' buy-in of the National Anthem and sing it reflectively with a sense of pride.”