₦airaland Forum

DEMOCRACY DAY CELEBRATION: FORMER GOVERNORS AND DISTINGUISHED SENATORS ABDULLAHI ADAMU AND UMAR TANKO ALMAKURA JOINED HIS EXCELLENCY ENGINEER ABDULLAHI A SULE TO COMMISSION THE NEWLY COMPLETED PRESIDENTIAL LODGE, AND ALH. ALIYU AKWE DOMA BANQUET HALL

As part of activities marking this year's Democracy Day, Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has commissioned two newly completed projects initaited by two previous administrations in the state.

Commissioning the Presidential Lodge, on Friday, Engineer Sule restated the commitment of his administration to complete all ongoing projects initiated by previous administrations in the state.

The Governor who took time to explain the quality of work done by the contractor that handled the project, named the edifice the Senator Umaru Tanko Al-makura Presidential Lodge, after the immediate past governor of the state who initiated the project.

Similarly, Engineer Sule commissioned the modern, state-of-the-art banquet hall also located within the Government House, named after the former governor of the state, the late Alhaji Aliyu Akwe Doma, who initiated the project in 2011.

According to the Governor, the Aliyu Akwe Doma Banquet Hall, which was earlier billed to cost the state N2.7bn, was finally completed at the cost of N1.8bn, after the state government negotiated for a downward review of the cost.

Through the negotiation, Engineer Sule disclosed, the state was saved over a one billion naira.

The occasions were witnessed by the State Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, former civilian governors of the state namely, Senators Abdullahi Adamu and Umaru Tanko Al-makura, the Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Barrister Muhammad Abdullahi, members of the House of Representatives, distinguished sons and daughters of the state, as well as top government functionaries.

GOVERNMENT OF NASARAWA STATE

Speech Delivered by His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, Governor of Nasarawa State on the Occasion of the Swearing-in of the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State and the Inauguration of Director-General, Bureau for Public Procurement, Lafia: Thursday, 11th June, 2020


1. His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State;

2. The Right Hon. Speaker, Nasarawa State House of Assembly;

3. Distinguished Members of the National Assembly here present;

4. The Hon. Chief Judge of Nasarawa State;

5. Principal Officers and Members of the State House of Assembly;

6. The Head of the Civil Service;

7. The Vice Chairman, North Central Geo-Political Zone, All Progressives Congress (APC);

8. The State Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC);

9. Permanent Secretaries;

10. His Royal Highness, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage Mohammed I, JSC Rtd, Emir of Lafia and Chairman, Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs;

11. Chairmen and Chief Executives of Commissions, Boards and Parastatals;

12. Executive Chairmen of Local Government Councils and Overseers of Development Areas;

13. Your Royal Highnesses, Emirs and Chiefs;

14. My dear Appointees;

15. Gentlemen of the Press;

16. Ladies and Gentlemen.

I am delighted to address you today on the occasion of the swearing-in of the new Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State and the inauguration of the Director-General, Nasarawa State Bureau for Public Procurement.

2. Let me acknowledge with appreciation the presence of distinguished personalities, relations, friends and well-wishers who are here to witness this all important event. It is my conviction that this solidarity is not only a demonstration of the popular acceptance of the appointees, but also, a resounding endorsement of this Administration’s avowal to bring on board the best hands that will strengthen the machinery of Government for the attainment of our development objectives.

3. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it is pertinent to state that since our assumption of office one year ago, our cardinal focus has been to assemble team of tested technocrats, resourceful experts and experienced personalities that will assist in the implementation of Government policies and programmes. Accordingly, owing to exigencies of governance, it has become imperative to re-strengthen the machinery of Government to enhance effective and efficient service delivery.

4. It is for this reason that I found it necessary to relieve the appointment of the former Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State, thereby, creating the vacancy for the new Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State to be appointed. In this regard, after consultation with broad spectrum of the society and other relevant stakeholders, we found Barr. Muhammad Ubandoma Aliyu worthy to serve this Administration in the capacity of Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State. I need to unequivocally state that Barr. Muhammad Ubandoma Aliyu is a known political gladiator, grassroots mobilizer, a result-oriented personality, and above all, a goal getter.

5. As you are aware, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State is the fulcrum of Government activities, which requires the occupant of the office to be a person with proven integrity, loyalty and outstanding antecedents. These were the guiding traits in arriving at the choice of the new Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State. I have no doubt that the new appointee will continue to be an embodiment of sacrifice and service to the people of Nasarawa State.

6. Let me, therefore, congratulate our new Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State on your well-deserved appointment. As you assume duty, I charge you to quickly settle down to your new assignment. I also charge you to be innovative and make valuable contributions to enable Government achieve its development objectives.
7. My dear good people of Nasarawa State, I should remind us all that governance is a collective responsibility. I, therefore, call on you to give the new Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State maximum support and cooperation. I implore you to appreciate the enormous tasks entrusted on his shoulder, hence the need for you to encourage him to give his best for the development of the State. Let me also appeal to members of the public not to put unnecessary pressures capable of distracting him from discharging his onerous responsibilities of taking Nasarawa State to greater heights.
8. As part of today’s occasion, we are also inaugurating the Director-General, Nasarawa State Bureau for Public Procurement in our commitment to entrench due process and diligence in the execution of Government policies and programmes. You would recall that when I took the oath of office as the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, I made a solemn declaration to imbibe the principles of transparency, accountability and prudence in the management of our common wealth and assured the people of Nasarawa State that whatever programmes and projects of Government will be implemented after meeting the requirements and imperatives of the Public Procurement Act.

9. Accordingly, I call on the new Director-General to live above board and ensure that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government comply with the provision of the Act in the execution of their programmes and projects.

10. At this juncture, I wish to call for cohesion and unity of purpose among all and sundry towards enhancing good governance in the State.

11. On this note, I once again congratulate the new Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State and the Director-General, Bureau for Public Procurement on their well-deserved appointments. I welcome you on board in the service of Nasarawa State.

12. Thank you and God bless us.

His Excellency AA Sule has approved the appointment of Barrister Muhammad Ubandoma as the New SSG Nasarawa State.

COVID-19: NASARAWA LIFTS BAN ON MARKETS, COMMERCIAL MOTORCYCLES

.....Curfew now from 10pm to 6am

Having met to review measures put in place to contain and control further spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nasarawa State Government has lifted the ban ordering the closure of markets, as well as activities of commercial motorcycles.

This was disclosed shortly after an expanded stakeholders meeting which held at the Government House, on Thursday.

Addressing journalists on the resolutions arrived at during the meeting, State Commissioner for Health, Pharmacist Ahmed Baba Yahaya, said having critically reviewed the situation, Government has decided to relax some of the restrictions earlier placed.

Pharmacist Yahaya stated that the state government has adopted all the recent proclamations made by the Federal Government, particularly the review of the curfew from 10pm to 6pm.

The Commissioner further disclosed that the state is in receipt of 30 trucks of palliatives given by the Federal Government, aimed at cushioning effects of restrictions put in place to contain the virus.

Places of worships, including Mosques and Churches will remain open but that worshipers must observe laid down regulations aimed at curbing further spread of the pandemic.

With this proclamation, markets are expected to open, with the resumption of activities by commercial motorcyclists.

Speaking also, State Commissioner of Police, Bola Longe, however cautioned residents on the need to observe necessary protocols established in order to curb further spread of the pandemic.

He emphasized that the security agents are on hand to deal with violators of government proclamations still in force.

Meanwhile, residents are encouraged to maintain social distancing, wash their hands and use face masks while the go about their business.

THE FUTURE ASSURED... AN NGO BELONGING TO THE FIRST LADY, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, DR. AISHA MUHAMMADU BUHARI. RENOVATES AND EQUIPPED A HEALTHCARE CENTER IN KARU LGC OF NASARAWA STATE.

Ably represented by Dr. Hajo Sani, Senior Special assistant to the president, at the event. Hajo Sani assured the people of nasarawa state, the readiness of the first lady in curtailing the pandemic, Corana virus in Nigeria, is what triggered her to renovating a unit of the hospital and equipping it with some palliatives and drugs to curshion the spray of the virus and other illnesses. Speaking during the official handing over of the building and the items, hajo Sani appreciate the general publicly and the good people of nasarawa state.

Appreciating the efforts of the first lady of Nigeria, the deputy governor of Nasarawa State, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, who represents his principal, ENGR ABDULLAHI A SULE, applaud the efforts of the first lady and the govt of President Muhammadu Buhari. He assured her of proper management of the items provided.

The First lady of Nas state, HE, Silifat Abdullahi A Sule. Also appreciates the good gestures of Dr Aisha Buhari. And pray for God to continue to give her the zeal to do more. And promised to keep following the foot steps of the first lady in such directions.

CONTINUITY! CONTINUITY!! CONTINUITY!!!

Engineer Sule restates commitment to complete all projects started by past administrations

Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has restated the commitment of his administration to complete all ongoing projects initiated by the previous administrations.

Engineer Sule stated this while delivering a state-wide broadcast, in commemoration of the first anniversary of his administration, on Friday.

The Governor maintained that this course of action, was aimed at turning around the fortunes of the state, even as he stressed the resolve of his administration to diligently and selflessly serve the people, through deliberate policies by executing programmes that will bring development to all the nook and cranny of the state.

Accordingly, Engineer Sule said his administration is committed to the continuous upgrade of physical structure, particularly, roads, upliftment of educational standard, enhancing agriculture, upgrading of health sector and market facilities, as well as other social services.

The Governor, while pointing out that as a responsive administration that has imbibed the culture and principles of transparency, accountability and due process in the management of the resources of the state, said it has become necessary for the administration to present to the people of the state its score card during the past year.

Engineer Sule however noted that the journey has not been all rosy as the administration has had its own share of daunting challenges.

“As you are aware, Nasarawa State is among the least in the revenue allocation chart.

“This state of affairs was further worsened by the recent global pandemic of coronavirus and its attendant toll on the scarce resources not only in Nasarawa State but the country at large,” the Governor stated.

He stressed however that his administration remains resilient and focused on meeting the development aspirations of the people, in spite of the challenges.

Thereafter, Engineer Sule reeled out the sectoral achievements recorded by the administration during the past year, to include among several others, security, youth and women empowerment, public service restructuring, provision of healthcare facilities, educational, infrastructures/facilities and provision of rural/urban roads.

Others are, Lafia Cargo Airport, provision of 2km solar powered street lights, agriculture/water supply, prompt payment of pension to retirees and the constitution of the state economic management and investment advisory council.

The Governor used the opportunity of the broadcast to urge the people of the state to continue to comply with the directives of government in its determination to contain and control the further spread of COVID-19, adding that government will continue to provide palliatives to cushion the hardships.

On the journey ahead, Engineer Sule cautioned the people that there is yet a long way to go, in the collective task to build a Nasarawa State in line with the dreams of the founding fathers of the state.

“We have no other state than Nasarawa State. It is for this reason that the need for us to unite and secure the future and that of our children becomes sacrosanct,” he said.

The Governor then congratulated the people of the state, as well as Nigerians, on the attainment of 20 years of the return to democracy and the first anniversary of his administration.

Nasarawa State Government has discharged 19 COVID-19 patients out of the 32 positive cases recorded in the state.

Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule disclosed this while chatting with journalists shortly after inspecting ongoing work at the Infectious Diseases Control and Diagnostic Centre, Lafia, on Monday.

The Governor stated that 19 patients who tested negative after receiving treatment, have been discharged, with the state now having 12 active cases and one death.

Engineer Sule expressed satisfaction that, in spite of the fact that the government has set up several isolation centres across the state, there are no patients at such facilities.

“We have been very lucky , we had total of 32 cases. As at this morning, we have had one death and 19 that have already been discharged.

“They have turned negative again and they have been discharged. Of the 32 cases, we only have 12 active cases,” he stated.

Commenting on the progress of work at the Infectious Diseases Centre, the Governor said the first phase of project, which entails the physical structure of the facility, is at 95 percent completion.

He explained that government is rushing to complete the project in order to adequately prepare for future emergencies, in terms of mitigating the outbreak of infectious diseases, such as Lassa Fever, Ebola, as well as any future eruption of virus.

Engineer Sule however noted that the second phase of the project, which entails equipping the facility, will be capital intensive but that his administration is working tirelessly to ensure the completion of the project.

“You can see they have finished the painting, fixing the doors, floors and roofs. It’s just the landscaping outside. But that is just phase one.

The second phase which is more important and actually more economically demanding, is the aspect of equipment and we are working on that at the moment. It will require a lot of investment in the area of research, testing and various laboratories,” the Governor said.

Engineer Sule pointed out that the centre will synergize with the Dalhatu Araf Specialists Hospital, as well as the State School of Nursing, all located within the vicinity of the facility.

“There is going to be synergy between the three institutions around. There will also be lots of collaboration, especially with the NCDC, we have been talking to them, with the Federal Ministry of Health and the State Ministry of Health, as well as all the other major hospitals that we have around, including our PHC unit,” he explained.

Post COVID-19: Engineer Sule inspects 500 hectares of land for youth empowerment in agriculture

As part of efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the economy of the state, Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has inspected 500 hectares of land in Doma, allocated for youth empowerment in agriculture.

Engineer Sule, who visited the facility in company of the Managing Director, Lower Benue River Development Authority, Engineer Mohammed Addra, on Tuesday, said it has become necessary to undertake a feasibility tour of the area in order to expedite action on his administration’s youth agricultural programme.

The Governor expressed concern that once COVID-19 is over, the country’s fragile economy, is going to face some major challenges, particularly economic challenge and that Nasarawa State is going to be at the receiving end when that happens.

Engineer Sule explained the need for the state to hasten action on its commercial agriculture programme, as well as small scale holders, especially youths.

He disclosed that Nasarawa State, being agrarian, will leverage on agriculture during the post-COVID-19 period, in order to provide employment opportunities for youth in the state.

To this end, Engineer Sule pointed out that recently, the state entered into an agreement with the LBRDA, to access 500 hectares of land around the Doma Dam, which he said, will be partitioned into one hectare each for the CBN/NIRSAL youth empowerment programme.

“I am happy with what I have seen. It’s a lot of work that needs to be done to convey water from the dam all the way to the 500 hectares given to us, so that we can irrigate, and be able to carry out two season of rice farming,” he stated.

The Governor however said a lot of work need to be done in order to enable the youths cultivate rice in two seasons.

“I felt it was necessary for me to come and see the location of the dam in connection to the land given to us. To see what we need to do, are we going to irrigate? Are we going to cultivate rice so that we have two seasons of rice? Instead of one season if it is rain fed.

“With the dam, we can have irrigation. So I want to see opportunities for the irrigation. Is the dam supposed to be feeding the field by gravity or we need to be pumping? Do we have all the structures for pumping into the field for irrigation? These are all the opportunities that I came to see. And so far so good, I am happy with what I have seen,” Engineer Sule said.

The Governor was emphatic that he desired the youths to have two seasons of rice farming, so that they can be able to earn throughout the year, with the Doma project expected to accommodate 1000 youths.

He disclosed further that Akwanga LGA is another location for the youth empowerment programme in agriculture, around the Mada River, where another 1500 youths will be engaged.

“My whole idea is that we want to make sure that the youth are self-employed throughout the year and then we will be working towards our food security programme,” the Governor said.

Engineer Sule inspected part of the 500 hectares of land on the outskirts of Doma, as well as the Doma Dam.

He was accompanied on the inspection visit by top government functionaries including the Commissioner for Agriculture and Water Resource, Professor Alananah Otaki, Special Adviser on Youths and Sport, Hon. Yakubu Kwanta and the Senior Special Assistant on SDGs, Mallam Murtala Abubakar, among others.

Nasarawa State Government has commenced the repatriation Almajiri children in the state across to their home states.
While addressing the public during the flag off of the exercise at Government Science School, Lafia, Governor Abdullahi Sule explained that the Almajiri Children within the ages of ten and below are being conveyed to their home states of Jigawa, Plateau, Taraba, Kaduna and Gombe.

Governor Abdullahi Sule stated that the measure became necessary in view of the vulnerability of the Children amidst the health challenges caused by COVID-19 across the world.

The Governor said "We are all here because of the love we have for you. We are not returning you bacause we dislike you so you can return to Nasarawa state when you grow older".

He said the repatriation of the Almajiri children to their home states was a decision that was collectively arrived at by all Northern Governors with a bid to ensuring the children are saved from the streets.

Added to this, the Governor noted that apart from conveying the over over thousand children in air conditioned buses attarched with security, have also been made available to takecare of their individual needs on their way home.

State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Halima Ahmadu Jabiru who is overseeing the exercise noted that the children would be repatriated in batches to their home states, while the Chairman Lafia Local Government Council, Aminu Mu'azu Maifata and his Counterpart of Doma, Rabo Sani explained that the exercise was carried out in synergy with heads of Almajiri schools across the state.

The first repatriation exercise where the Almajiri children will be lead by the teachers drew the Almajiri children from the three senatorial districts of the state.

Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has decried the payment of local government pensioners in percentages, stressing that it was not necessary because LG pensioners earn little amounts.

Engineer Sule made this known while addressing officials of the joint union of labour, marking this year’s Labour Day, at the Presidential Lodge, on Friday.

The Governor said he does not believe in paying salaries in percentages, said he had cause to direct council officials not to pay pensioners in percentages because must of them don’t earn much.

Though Engineer Sule agreed that the councils, for the past three months, have been facing financial constraints, as a result of the downfall in revenue occasioned by the outbreak of the coronavirus, he however appealed to the unions to work together with the councils to find solutions to the challenges confronting the councils.

“I don’t believe in payment of salaries in percentages. I tried as much as possible to see how we can find ways to compensate people for what they deserve.

“At the LG level, I told them they can’t pay 75 percent of salaries and pensioners, who are earning peanuts, and you pay them 75 percent again. That’s why the DG Pensions paid them one hundred percent,” he explained.

While noting that the LG are owing pensioners one month outstanding pension, the Governor said this was because the councils lack sufficient funds.

The Governor expressed satisfaction with calls by the unions for a workable resolution of percentage payment of salaries at the LG level, describing it as ‘unbelievable’ their suggestion that in case allocation is not enough to pay full salaries, it should be kept until the following month.

“For me, the carry home today, is that even the labour unions are kind enough to say, you know what, if it is not enough, keep it and pay us full salary next month, I mean, there is no better understanding than that,” Engineer Sule stated.

He pointed out that even though his administration has continued to keep its promise, paying salaries and pensions in full, the Governor however urged workers in the state to braze up for tough times ahead following the global economic shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“You don’t need any magician to tell you the economic challenges of the future are going to be enormous.

“So for a state that relies over 90 percent on FG allocation, once the FG allocation coughs, Nasarawa state catches cold,” Engineer Sule said.

He used the opportunity to stressed the need to maintain peace in the state, as according to him, peace is what is going to bring progress and development to the state.

Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has vowed to uplift the standard of education in the state, stressing that God will not forgive him, if after realising the decay in the sector, he leaves office without doing anything.

Engineer Sule made this known while being presented with a report on baseline survey on educational wellbeing of both primary and secondary schools across the state, at the Government House, on Thursday.

The baseline survey was conducted by a committee headed by Professor Mohammed Isa Kida, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences and Management Studies, Federal University Lafia.

The Governor who lamented the dilapidated conditions of some of the schools in the state, said God will not forgive him, if he leaves office knowing the position he met the schools and yet he did nothing.

While thanking members of the committee for carrying out a wonderful job, particularly the chairman, Professor Kida, known for his thoroughness and passion for such research work, Engineer Sule said what he wanted, which is in line with his character, was for the committee to present the facts, no matter how painful, so that the administration can start work from ground zero.

The Governor said he is committed to education, especially science and technical education, adding that his administration will work as much as possible to reposition the sector.

He commended various administrations for their efforts to improve the standard of education in the state, singling out the administration of former governor Senator Umaru Tank Al-makura, for embarking on the massive construction of schools.

“Every Governor that came in, focused and concentrated on areas of their own interest, or areas that they strongly believe will promote education.

“But education in totality requires so many diverse areas. I am committed to education in Nasarawa State, and today really, is one of my best days.

“This is a day I have been looking forward to, so that you can come and make this kind of presentation, so we will now start from there and build the sector,” he stated.

Engineer Sule, while recounting how he turned around the former AP Petroleum from a negative balance sheet to a positive balance sheet, said he is ready to burst the bubble in order to start from ground zero.

The Governor said from the inspection tour he undertook across some schools in each of the senatorial zones, some of the structures are unfit to serve as learning centres to groom children of the state.

“When you mentioned that 90 percent of our schools, especially primary schools, are dilapidated, a lot of people who don’t understand what is happening in the state, may not believe you,” he stated.

Engineer Sule said because of the special interest he has for science and technology, the state government hastened to complete the skill acquisition centre along Jos Road, started by the Senator Al-makura administration.

According to the Governor, the centre which has 12 shops, running courses in electrical installation, fitter machinist, motor mechanic, carpentry and joinery, wielding, fabrication, radio and television, air-condition and refrigeration and agricultural mechanization, will hopefully start admitting trainees this year.

He disclosed plans to also turn around two technical schools located in Assakio and Agwada, while promising to personally renovate the Government Science School Lafia.

“We are going to work as much as possible to promote science and technical education.

“I am pleading with our people to understand because to me, having a handcraft, will help you a lot to even set up your business,” the Governor said.

Earlier, while presenting the report, Chairman of the committee, Prof Kida, said it consists of raw data for primary schools in six volumes, as well as three volumes for secondary schools, obtained from across the 13 local government areas of the state.

He pointed out that the survey started December last year, with the report serving as benchmark, since according to him, the objective of baseline survey is to establish the baseline where to start, so that the administration will know where it is going.

Prof Kida revealed that there are 1391 primary schools and 419 secondary schools in Nasarawa State, out of which there are 19 junior, about 320 senior and 29 boarding schools.

He said, as researchers, they have done their work by stating the facts, some of which will make the Governor happy, while others will make him sad.

Some of the findings from the report include, that 90 percent of the schools are in the rural areas, , 72 percent of headteachers in primary schools are not qualified, because the national requirement for being a headmaster is a minimum of degree not NCE, among others.

“70 percent of the schools reported that 30 percent of the pupils don’t come to classes regularly,” he stated.

Nasarawa State has recorded its index case of the novel coronavirus with a woman who recently returned from Kano.

Governor Abdullahi A Sule announced this during the COVID-19 Task Force Committee meeting held in Government House Lafia on Tuesday.

The Governor maintained that the lady who returned to Kokona from Kano was among the five samples tested out of which four turned out negative adding that she has since been isolated and is presently receiving medical attention at the isolation center in Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital Lafia.

Governor Sule added that "Just yesterday, five tests have been conducted and four are negative and with one positive case in Kokona. The index case traveled from Kano to Kokona".

While appreciating the people of the state, COVID-19 Task Force Committee and the security agencies as well as the traditional institutions, the Governor said his appreciation will not be complete without thanking Local Government authorities, media and other stakeholders in the state for the show of support and cooperation in the fight against COVID-19.

Speaking on the raining season, the Governor maintained that Government has always encouraged farmers to continue with their farming activities in order to ensure food security and also minimize economic hardship.

On the issue of call to prayers, he said the government has not stopped it but has placed ban on congregational prayers rather people should pray with their families till further notice.

"Nasarawa State is yet to receive palliatives from FG due to transportation challenges but we have dispatched vehicles to deliver these palliatives to the state" Gov Sule added.

For other resources from FG, the Governor stressed that the state government is in talk with the NCDC to secure the resources for use by the state to fight the COVID-19 scourge in the state.

"40 trucks of palliative food items from CACOVID are on the way to Nasarawa State for onward distribution to the people of the state aimed at cushioning the effect of the lockdown occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic" Engr Sule stressed.

On isolation centres, DASH single rooms isolation centers are readyand housing the index case already. In the same DASH, there is another 100 bed capacity isolation center which will be ready in no distant time.

"The Akwanga isolation center is also ready and has started functioning. The one in Shabu is ready to receive patients. Nasarawa State is setting up a test center to collect samples in Karu, Keffi, Akwanga, Lafia" Gov Sule added.

The Governor encouraged the people especially traders still traveling to always avail themselves for testing while calling for self isolation of those coming from high risk state.

He further stated that motorcycle ban was aimed at maintaining social distancing hence only the rider is expected to be on a motorcycle with no passenger.

The state government is in the process of enforcing compulsory wearing of face mask as soon as it receives delivery of the face masks procured by the state.

In a bid to enhance security across the state, Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has presented three brand new Hilux vans, 15 brand new motorcycles, among others, to the Nigerian Army.

Similarly, the Governor also presented five generating sets to the troops, and approved the perimeter excavation round the camps and installation of solar powered lights.

Commenting on the gesture, Engineer Sule said the government decided to support the military as a show of appreciation for the wonderful job the army is doing in Nasarawa State in the area of security.

The Governor promised to continue to support the military as it rids the state of all criminal elements.

Engineer Sule specifically thanked the military for siting two new camps as well as military presence in Toto and Nasarawa LGAs, as well as in Keana and Doma, particularly at a time when some criminals are exploiting the lockdown to engage in kidnapping and armed banditry.

He used the opportunity to appreciate the support of critical stakeholders across the state, including members of the state executive council, state legislators, traditional rulers, as well as the Chairmen of Toto and Nasarawa Local Government Areas.

Engineer Sule singled out for commendation, security agencies from the military, civil defence, police and DSS, for the good job they have continued to do and exhibit in Nasarawa State.

Receiving the items on behalf of the military, Lt. Col Musa Muazu Aliyu, Commandant of the 177 Guards Battalion, Keffi, thanked the Governor for supporting the army towards discharging its duty to ensure that Nasarawa State is free of all criminals.

While noting that the gesture will further encourage them, the Commandant assured the Governor that the military will not relent until the state remain peaceful.

Earlier, in an opening remarks, Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government, Ahmed Aliyu Tijjani, recalled that the army established two new super camps at Kanyehu, in Toto LGA and Mararaban Udege, in Nasarawa LGA, in order to tackle armed banditry, kidnapping and other cross-border crimes.

✍️ Hon. Abdulmumin Mohammed Ari in fulfilment of his desire for open and transparent legislation, opened for the first time a befitting Nasarawa/Toto Federal Constituency Secretariat at Low-cost Nasarawa main town.

✍️ Hon. Member equally placed about hundred staff in his constituency secretariat on a life saving monthly stipend under the leadership of Hon. Prince M. Sani Usman as Admin Secretary.

✍️ Brand new transformer to Laminga community in Nasarawa Local Government.

✍️ Replacement of bad concrete polls to aid sufficient power supplies within Nasarawa town.

✍️ Repair of vandalized transformer at Hayin Gada to the sum of 400,000.

✍️ Hon. Ari issued 100,000 cheque each to 18 female students that secured admission to study nursing and midwifery in his bid to revive our health facilities in the nearest future.

✍️ Allocated cash and relief materials to flood victims in Umaisha and Loko Communities.

✍️ Supported APC Nasarawa Local Government with 1million Naira for the payment of outstanding party office rent.

✍️ Repair of borehole at Anguwan Waje Nasarawa.

✍️ Paid #14,000 to augment the WAEC registration for more than 2,000 secondary schools students during 2019/2020 academic session.

✍️ He allocated #350,000 and #200,00 consecutively for the repair of transformer at Kofan Madaki Nasarawa East ward.

✍️ Hon. Ari empowers more than thirty women across 27 wards of Nasarawa/Toto Federal Constituency with a brand new Chest Deep Freezer each.

✍️ Among National Assembly members that donated half of their two months salary to support federal governments efforts to contain the outbreak of novel Coronavirus.

✍️ Donation of one million Naira to Nasarawa State Government to sustain the fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

✍️ Supported youth movements within and outside the state in his active capacity as deputy chairman house committee on youth development.

✍️ Established an overwhelming cordial relationships and collaborations with Executives, Legislatures and relevant stakeholders within and outside Nasarawa state.

Thank you Hon. Abdulmumin Mohammed Ari for doing us proud.

The seat of Hon. Ari Media Director

Governor Abdullahi A. Sule of Nasarawa State said by signing the bill, Nasarawa has joined the league of transparent states.

He stated the need for a proper and efficient procurement agency to ensure the enforcement of the law to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.

The governor appreciated members of the assembly for their relentless efforts in seeing to the success of this bill.

The bill according to Governor Sule will avail the state the opportunity to benefit from world Bank support to states that have exhibited honesty and transparency.

Abdullahi Sule said "Today we have joined the league of elite states and we will henceforth begin to see the benefits of this singular act from IMF, World Bank and the rest".

Speaking, the Speaker Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi stressed the importance of the bill which prompted the assembly to resume from recess to ensure the speedy deliberation and passage of the bill.

Balarabe applauded the commitment of the Governor to bring about the needed development of the state as he assured of the continuous support and cooperation of the assembly in the overall interest of the state.

In an opening remark, the Commissioner for Justice, Abdul Karim Kana said the Governor deemed it fit to come up with the law considering its important to development of the state.

The Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule has said that his administration is taking steps to control and contain the spread of the dreaded covid-19 because the state lacks the capacity to be able to manage large positive cases.

Engineer Sule gave the hint while being presented with a report on oversight functions at Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) carried out by the Nasarawa State Civil Service Commission, at the Government House, on Thursday.

The Governor expressed concern that a widespread coronavirus infection, will have devastating effect on both the economy and health of the state, especially that Nasarawa State is one of the least in terms of federal allocation.

Engineer Sule used the opportunity to therefore, appeal to the people of the state to bear with the decisions being taking by his administration in a bid to protect the citizens against the pandemic.

While assuring that government, on its own, will do everything possible, to ensure that the effects of such decisions, are not so devastating to the people of the state, Engineer Sule further appealed to the people of the state to bear with government until the prevailing challenge is over.

“Truly speaking, every time that we meet, and every day I wake up, every day I go to sleep, I am worried about the impact of covid-19 on the health and economy of our state.

“The state will be badly affected, especially in the area of economy and also in the area of health, once we discover that we have positive cases in Nasarawa State,” the Governor said.

Engineer Sule noted that recent measures taken must have affected both Christians and Muslims, especially that the country was just coming out of the Easter period and now approaching the holy month of Ramadan.

“I know decisions we are taking are painful to the people, especially at a time we just went through the Easter period and we are also approaching the Ramadan.

“Both faiths have been affected and both faiths have been hindered from carrying out their religious functions. But we will continue to plead with people of Nasarawa State to bear with the government when it comes to the action we are taking,” he added.

Commenting on the report being presented, the Governor while appreciating the commission for carrying out a wonderful job, promised that government will continue to look at the report and most of the areas identified.

“We will look at all the issues that you have mentioned, especially in the areas of sensitive positions that are not occupied. And other sensitive positions that are in the hands of people who are casual workers,” the Governor said.

Earlier, while presenting the report, Chairman of the Nasarawa State Civil Service Commission, Alhaji Musa Dangana, commended the state government for all the measures put in place in order to control and contain the spread of covid-19 in the state.

Dangana said, as part of the statutory function of the commission, members carried out oversight visits to MDAs, following which they made certain recommendation which they are submitting as part of the report and which when followed, will lead to optimal efficiency in the state civil service.

WE RECALL 28 THINGS GOVERNOR ABDULLAHI A. SULE IS DOING IN NASARAWA STATE:

1. Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule embarked on a statewide medical outreach for the treatment of Glaucoma and Cataract surgery which is still ongoing today.

2. Engineer Sule has remained committed to the continuous expansion of the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital (DASH), Lafia to facilitate the seamless transition to a Teaching Hospital.

3. Governor Sule provided additional structures and equipment and handed two fully-operational Specialized Hospitals in Akwanga and Nasarawa over to the State Hospitals Management Board.

4. Engineer A.A. Sule has furnished and fully equipped the newly constructed School of Nursing and Midwifery.

5. Following certification by the Nursing Council, the School of Nursing and Midwifery have been fully moved to the new site and resumed full academic activities.

6. Governor Abdullahi A. Sule has received a high powered delegation from the National Universities Commission (NUC), which visited the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital for resource inspection prelude to the accreditation of the Hospital as a Teaching Hospital.

7. Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule has attracted the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to Nasarawa State through the establishment of a Technology Innovation Hub, to which JAMB also provided equipment worth over N200 Million.

8. To improve the availability of technical and medical manpower in the State, government has ensured that arrangements have been completed for the commencement of academic programmes at the newly established Faculties of Engineering and Medical Sciences, Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

9. The administration of Engineer A.A. Sule has also embarked on the constructions of classroom blocks for effective teaching and learning in Angwan Jarme, Mahanga and Mararaban Gongon in Kokona, Awe and Wamba Local Government Areas respectively in collaboration with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

10. Similar arrangements have been concluded for the mass construction and rehabilitation of Primary and Junior Secondary Schools across Nasarawa State under the auspices of the State Universal Basic Education Board’s Projects.

11. Engineer Abdullahi A, Sule has formalized the appointments of the two thousand, two hundred and fifty (2,250) teachers who were engaged by the previous administration. The Teachers Service Commission has already conducted the screening and Appointment Letters have been issued to them.

12. Twenty five (25) students in the state have been awarded scholarship to study in the Zaria Academy and another twenty (20) students to study higher education at the International University of Africa, Khartoun, Sudan.

13. The State government has also entered into agreement with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and provided the Agency a befitting office in Lafia along with three ICT JAMB centers; each of which has the capacity of accommodating 250 JAMB candidates. This means 750 candidates can write JAMB exams at the same time and in a day 2,250 will write the exam in Nasarawa State.

14. Engineer Sule has commenced the construction of Shinge-Rice Mill, Kilema road for enhanced socio-economic activities in Nasarawa State. The work is ongoing.

15. The Governor has also awarded ongoing contracts for the construction of selected roads within Lafia metropolis and some Inter-Local Government roads that will ensure statewide development like the critical 15.5km Asphalt Sisinbaki-Kwarra road project in Wamba Local Government Area.

16. Governor Abdullahi A. Sule has embarked on the contruction of Rural Feeder Roads in Nasarawa State like the Agwade-Shupe-Atabula-Obi road, Shabu-Doka-Arugba-Lakio, Kanje-Abuni and Kagbu-Atsoko-Kagbu Wana roads.

17. Under Engineer Sule’s stewardship, government has procured transformers and distributed them to various communities to support our rural electrification drive.

18. Governor Abdullahi A. Sule has provided 2km Solar Power Street Light Projects in all the thirteen (13) Local Government Areas of Nasarawa State.

19. The administration of Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dangote Group, as well as Flour Mills, and Azman Rice Mills and Farms Ltd.

20. To encourage large scale mechanized farming and reduce youth restiveness and unemployment, the A.A. Sule government has also concluded arrangements in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to access credit facilities in the sum of N1.5 Billion through NIRSAL to enable the youth of Nasarawa State to set-up small scale agricultural and trading enterprises.

21. To institutionalize open governance, probity and prudent management of scarce resources, the State government has adopted a Performance Based Budgeting System in the preparation of the 2020 budget which was recently passed into law today by the State House of Assembly.

22. Governor Sule led a high powered team to Flour Mills Ltd., Lagos to showcase the economic potentials of Nasarawa State, where it was resolved that Flour Mills will invest in Agri-processing in Nasarawa State in value chain development of Cassava farming and Sugarcane plantations.

23. Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule has conceived a futuristic living document called NEDS: Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy whose objective is to unlock all constraints which may have hitherto hindered the inflow of investments into Nasarawa State and help catapult Nasarawa State to become “one of the top three most competitive states in Nigeria by 2023.

24. Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule has held a town hall meeting with affected residents and commercial drivers; as well as formally seeking synergy with the Minister of FCT, as Nasarawa State commences the building of the 4th biggest new mega Bus Terminal, so that the current 22 motor parks which are scattered from Nyanya-Mararaba to Masaka will all be closed down.

25. Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule has shown the political will of identifying health insurance as an important and indispensable package for any employee of government by launching of the Nasarawa State Health Insurance Scheme which is aimed at providing universal health coverage by taking away out of pocket expenses.

26. Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule has started the construction of the 4th biggest mega bus terminal in Nigeria at Karu, opposite the Karu International Market. This Mega Bus Terminal will house 900 cars and by this all other 22 small bus terminals from Nyanya to Masaka will be closed, and effectively there will be no traffic gridlock between Keffi and Abuja, while, the state will earn massive revenue.

27. After nearly 12 years, it is Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule that has solved the perennial issue of lack of water in Keffi local government area. Now there is water in Keffi!

28. Keffi College celebrated 70 years of establishment on 29th February 2020 in Keffi and the college has boasted of prominent Nigerians including Minister of information, Lai Mohammed who graduated from Keffi in 1969 and Late President Musa Yar’Adua but they couldn’t even complete a Library in honor of the former President, Yar’Adua which they started since 2009, over 10 years ago. But in less than a month, Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule gave N100 MILLION Naira to construct the road from Expressway up to Government College Keffi and gave them an additional N10 MILLION TO PREPARE FOR THEIR 70TH Anniversary, and at the event he promised to reconstruct and renovate the Benue Hostel which is the oldest and worst hostel in Government College Keffi.

Above are just A TIP OF THE ICEBERG. Signed, Yakubu Lamai. DG, Strategic Communication and Press Affairs

OPINION


President Sir, in writing this letter to you, I am not oblivious of the fact that it is possible you may not have visited the place called Toto LGA, in Nasarawa State. The area is largely an agrarian community of hardworking farmers, businessmen and women and fishermen.

Toto LGA is also home to a host of solid mineral resources, key among them, the best quality marble in the world – at least a world class researcher/geologist told me this about 10 years ago.

Mr. President Sir, in writing this letter to you, I am not oblivious of the fact that it is possible you may not have visited the place called Toto LGA, in Nasarawa State. The area is largely an agrarian community of hardworking farmers, businessmen and women and fishermen.

Toto LGA is also home to a host of solid mineral resources, key among them, the best quality marble in the world – at least a world class researcher/geologist told me this about 10 years ago.

Mr. President, I have traversed the length and breadth of this country as a writer and journalist, I can authoritatively report that Toto LGA is uniquely one community where people have since prehistoric times scorned at the now common practice of demanding money for votes. Our people feel that money for votes is demeaning, and bribe taking is anathema to their culture.

You would agree with me, Mr President, that a community that sells its votes is doomed. It loses the moral right to demand for development projects when government is formed. This is because it has ceded that right the very day it took the bribe before casting the votes.

Without any prevarication, Nigerians must know that if we truly desire good governance in this country we cannot continue the morbid attitude of cash-for-votes as a basis for our choice of leaders.

However, Mr President, you know it is a convention all over the world that in politics, there is a sane but unwritten principle of give and take. When a people work hard to support political actors and have gone through the thick and thin to vote for them, then they may reserve the right to demand for development of their community from the leadership.

In this country, we have seen, in great amazement, a people who refused, against all entreaties, to support or vote the present administration to office but still have the temerity to launch daily social media attacks on the leaders and the administration, while demanding for the highest political appointments in the present administration. In spite of all the vitriolic attacks, this administration has approved and given them roads, bridges and other projects worth billions of naira. As things still stand, they are not done yet until they get an arm!

Mr. President, I would humbly request you to please go back into your political records, dating to 2003. You would discover that the people of Toto LGA have been consistent from then till date in demonstrating their faith in your brand because we believe that Nigeria deserves to break away from the cankerworm of corruption, security crises and the poor infrastructure which defined the way things were done for so long. We saw in you that capacity to tackle the ills of our society and proffer sustainable solutions. Today, there is evident that this administration is leading the way to reclaim our nation from the enemies within. Our support for you over the years has been justified!

Mr. President, we have been patient for four years to have a feel of the dividends of your administration. It would appear, however, that our patience is not yielding any benefit or resolving our travails as there is no one to present our problems to the appropriate quarters. Thus, we resort to writing you this letter.

Mr. President, our people are highly educated; they can hold the highest office in this country and function excellently but the purpose of this letter is not to ask for political appointments, not because we don’t need them but it would have to be first things, first!

Mr. President, Sir, I am a living witness to the huge investment this administration has made in infrastructure development across the six geo-political zones of this country in the past four years. The people of Toto LGA request that you kindly give unto us also a piece of the action by considering the re-construction of the Abaji-Toto-Nasarawa road.

The Abaji-Toto-Nasarawa road has remained neglected by past administrations. This road, passing through a combination of rich agricultural and solid mineral zone, is highly beneficial to Nigeria’s economic development.


This federal road also has the advantage of providing an alternative route for, especially, heavy duty vehicles and other commuters in the North-South movement and vice versa, thereby reducing the stress on the Abaji-Abuja-Keffi road.

In its current poor state, the Abaji-Toto-Nasarawa road has turned to a nightmare for the communities living there. Already, armed robbers, bandits and many other shades of criminals, taking advantage of the deep potholes, have made life hellish for the innocent inhabitants and other users of the road. Mr. President, please do this road for us!

I believe, Mr. President, one of your agenda, which is to tackle insecurity, is well worth it. All over the world, crime rates are on the rise; Nigeria is not an exception. The heat the Nigerian Armed Forces have turned on is winning, especially in the North-east conundrum. It would appear, however, that bands of bandits fleeing the heat have found in Toto, an operational base. Our people are regularly under attack. Kidnappers now visit at night to pick humans away, like chickens, from their houses and mindlessly demand ransoms in millions from poor folks; failure which the victims’ lives are wasted. Mr. President, beef up security in our communities because we know you love this country and you have the capacity to bring back sanity.

Lastly, Mr. President, Toto LGA is one of the most populated LGAs in Nasarawa State. And the influx of visitors is daily on the increase, probably owing to the proximity of Toto to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. We request the siting of a federal institution of higher learning here. Tertiary institutions have opened up communities and brought ripple development opportunities to hitherto small enclaves. It is our plea, Mr. President, that your kind consideration to site, at least one institution here, would bring life-changing opportunities to our communities and our people.


Mr. President, we know for a fact that you are a caring father and an uncommon leader because you have, in more ways than one, demonstrated a rare sense of respect and love for the common man and his aspirations.

I am trusting that you will come to our aid, wipe our tears, save us the agony and grant us the aforementioned requests.

Thank you, Your Excellency.


WW

– Ohitoto writes from Abuja

Abdulmutalib Adazigu Muhammad : Advocate for good governance in Nigeria.

The fact that insecurity is now a global phenomenon does not depicts the role of government in ensuring total well-being of her people.

Nigerian police just like any other in the world, have over years demonstrated vital roles in protecting break ups in security and morals of our people. In collaboration with other law enforcement agencies home and abroad, Nigeria was able to tie-it-up to this end.

Centuries ago, the issue of our security men and women welfarism was managed with total carefulness and sincerity. That saw the period when our intelligent security personnels stopped at nothing in discharging there duties. Then;
- our young men and women find it worthy to be part of the struggle.
- these gallantries were keeping themselves feet and strong for the rainy day.
- crimes and criminals were on the run, because they are sure our gallantries would come for them sooner or later.

With the passage of time and moments, the welfare of these vibrant and uncompromised men and women was taken as a puppet. What used to be an obligation is now a privilege. The housing scheme was lavaged and little or nothing been provided in leau.

In consequence, these noble personnels have families and responsibilities like me and you. Several others were philanthropists before enlistment into the police scheme. Years pass-by living them with nothing than separations from existing love and intimacy.

With these left overs and inappropriateness in security votes for patrol vans fuelling, maintenance and personnels allowances, the recent culture of collecting fifty naira and other forms of bribery were enhanced. Several campaigns to abolish the said Act only fuel it the more.

The text is not in anyway supporting bribery, but rather calling on entire citizens to partake in this campaign to better the well-being of our brothers and sisters in their diligent services to Nigeria and Nigerians.

I have a dream that one the welfare of our security operatives would be considered with high esteem. Our government would have upon herself the obligation to ensure proper implementation of security packs during and after their diligent services.

Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The All Progressive Congress (APC) has reiterated her commitments in the appointments of competent politicians and technocrats in her Next Level administration at both state and federal levels. We hereby, remind the leadership of APC that Youths are indeed the true panaceas of the development of any society forming about

However, the fact that youths locally and in the diaspora had contributed majorly in the actualization of Next Level mantra cannot be overemphasized. Youths in millions staged a solidarity campaigns in support of the government of APC in local, state, national and abroad. Many lost their lives, others lost properties, while many had to go through pains in the struggle. Today the Next Level slogan is not longer a dream but reality. We pray for its true dividends to Nigerians, African continent and world at large.

Not longer when 29th May ushered-in a new government, appointments have for long being approved on print and non-print Media's. We comment the resilience of some states for appointing 31,32, and 33 years old as state Assembly Speakers.

While you consider competency and technocrats we hope to receive the nominations and appointments of more Youths as SAs, SSAs, Aids, Commissioners, Ministers, GMs, DGs, CEOs, CMS, and Board Directors and Members.

We were baffled with the saying, youths are the leaders of tomorrow while growing. Now the youths have grown.

Without any iota of doubt, youth constitute Nigeria's only hope for a real future". The Nigerian government characterizes youth as ambitious, enthusiastic, energetic and promising.

Comr. Abdulmutalib Adazigu Muhammad
Dedicated to Youths Advocates