The Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani has called on media houses, social media users and macro-blogging sites to desist from being used by mischief makers to cause unnecessary tension in the country.
Speaking to newsmen on his recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his alleged rejection of a certain individual proposed by his predecessor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai to replace him as a ministerial nominee, Governor Sani said: “the only thing that is true in the story is that I met with the President. “Every other thing is false and a conjecture to create friction between me and Malam Nasir El-Rufai. At no time did we discuss the issue of replacement.”
Governor Sani urged media outlets to be cautious and avoid becoming tools for mischief-makers who specialize in spreading falsehoods and divisive narratives.
He however commended some media houses and bloggers that have consistently ensured due diligence in reporting factual stories, but reminded members of the press of their duty as the fourth estate of the realm.
“In these days of clickbaits and fake news, it is imperative for traditional and new media platforms to maintain their integrity by sharing balanced and verified stories that will be useful in moving the nation forward.”
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), has said that the publication in the Sunday Punch on Page 6 which reads: ‘FG sets up Panel to Reconstitute Boards of Parastatals’ is fake news.
“The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume wishes to state clearly that there is no truth in the story as published in the Sunday Punch neither has government set up any ad-hoc committee as alleged to review the resumes of individuals who would fill such board appointments as stated in the said publication.”
A statement today, August 13, by the Director, Information in the SGF office, Willie Bassey, said that the visit of the two former Governors of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu and Jigawa State, Abubakar Badaru, to the SGF office on Friday, had nothing to do with such adhoc committee.
“It has everything to do with their recent appointment as ministers.
“Also, the reporter inaccurately quoted the Spokesperson of the OSGF as indicating that 14 agencies were stipulated to have been exempted. Whereas, the release in question at the time only recieved the President’s approval for two agencies- National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC).”
OSGF advised that order to avoid inaccurate reporting, media personnel should always cross-check information directly from authorized persons in his office rather than depending on some social media reports which may be inaccurate.
The leader of the new military junta in Niger Republic, General Abdourahmane Tchiani has apologized to Nigeria for not according attention to the General Abdulsalami Abubakar peace team which was sent to Niamey by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the coup that had generated controversies across the West African subregion and beyond. The new Niger Republic strong man, who spoke when some Nigerian Islamic Ulammas, led by Sheik Bala Lau, met with him for several hours in Niger’s capital Niamey, said that he shunned the team sent, led by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar “because we were angry about the ECOWAS ultimatum.” General Tchiani said that it was painful to the coup leaders that the ECOWAS leaders did not hear their side of the matter before issuing ultimatum to them to quit office. He claimed that the coup was well intended, saying that they struck to stave off an imminent threat that would have affected not only Niger Republic but also Nigeria. General Tchiani who accorded the team warm reception, however, welcomed their intervention, adding that the doors were open to explore diplomacy and peace in resolving the matter. The General traced the historical ties between Nigeria and Niger, saying that Niger Republic and Nigeria are not only neighbours but brothers and sisters who should resolve issues amicably. The peace team, which comprised prominent Islamic scholars Nigeria, convinced the leader of the military junta to agree to intensify the option of dialogue in resolving the political crisis in that country. Sheikh Bala Lau, who is the National Chairman of Jamatul Izalatu Bida Waikamatu Sunnah, said the that clerics were in Niger on behalf of President Bola Tinubu who accepted their request to intervene. Sheik Lau said that the team had earlier told President Tinubu, who is also the Chairman of Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government that their position is that the political impasse in Niger be resolved through dialogue. He told General Tchiani that the visit to Niger was to engage in constructive dialogue to encourage him and other military leaders behind the coup to toe the path of peace instead of war to resolve the crisis. Speaking to newsmen after the meeting, another member of the intervention team and Chief Missioner of Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, Sheik Ahmad Abdulrahman, said that contrary to reports in some sections of the media, the team was well received by General Tchiani and both parties had fruitful discussions. “We will now go back home and report to President Tinubu what we have discussed and press it on him that war is not an option in resolving the matter. “We believe that war is an ill wind that will not blow any good and that peaceful resolution should prevail.” The team comprised scholars from various Islamic sects in the country. Among them were Sheik Kabiru Gombe-Secretary, Jamatul izalatul bida waikamatul sunnah, Sheik Yakubu Musa Hassan Katsina-Director Daawah, JIBWIS, Sheik Ibrahim Dahiru Bauchi- Rep Sheik Ibrahim Bauchi and Dr Khalid Aliya- Secretary General, Jammatul Nasril Islam. Others included Sheik Karibullah Nasiru Kabara- Leader Khadriya group Nigeria, Sheik Ahmad Abdurahman, Professor Salisu Sheri- Deputy Secretary-General Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Sheik Nasiru Abdul Muhayuid- Director Admin, JIBWIS Jos, Professor Mansur Sokoto, and Alhaji Mele Kyari.
In the last couple of days, two brotherly and sisterly countries were almost on the brink of war neither of which any of them could fathom or justify. The big brother Nigeria has become entangled in a far fetched multilateral moral pretense of regional formation called ECOWAS that it has jettison its fundamental primary responsibility to the constituency (Nigeria) that gave it the legal authority to that membership. Since the coup deta in Niger some weeks back, President Tinubu has found himself walking on a very tight rope. He has never been exposed to international diplomacy and can fittingly be called a novice in this field. The fact that he is an emperor with total dominance of the most populous and prosperous State of Lagos does not confer on him any wisdom in diplomacy. But he is also the luckiest Nigerian president had he desired to harvest from the wisdom and experience of former Presidents and Heads of State Nigeria is so richly blessed with. I thought President Tinubu would have from the onset looked into the chemistry of the cocktail called ECOWAS before taking weighty decision on any issue that affects the region and its consequences on his country which he is presidenting! Had he done so, he would have found out what is the history of One of the oldest members the region that is President Alassane Quattara of Ivory Coasta. There was a time when Quattara’s nationality was in dispute, that his ancestoral country was Mali. President Lauren Ghabbo disqualified him from running as president even though he was at one time the prime Minister of Ivory Coast! But today he is the President of Ivory Coast. By a twist of fate there is today a military junta in Mali (his ancestral home) running the country and we have not heard President Quattara asking for a war to be launched on Mali in the name of DEMOCRACY. The saying blood is thicker than readily comes to mind. Back to Nigeria and the face off with Niger. There is total unanimity in Nigeria that we should not go to war with Niger for the so many many reasons given by all and sundry especially the seven States contiguous to Niger Republic! In any case the Senate mandated by Nigerian Constitution to authorize the President with such power has unambiguously withheld that authority. The next thing for President Tinibu now is to embark on damage control and repair and this brings him to the time to now harvest from the connection and wisdom of our former Presidents and Heads of State as someone rightly advised over BBC Hausa service. These Leaders are highly respected and trusted not only in our sub region but globally. It true there is no love lost between President Tinubu and some of them, but certainly, on any issue that affects Nigeria no matter how remote, those Leaders will always be there for Nigeria! Time is not on the side of both countries. What we had in last one thousand years has been lost in matter of few weeks. But we have the bond and love for each other to build on. May Allah bless Nigeria and Niger. Ameen. Lamido is former Nigerian Foreign Minister.
Tijani Yakubu, an 18 year old young man, is out for real business as a promising professional footballer.. Tijjani, from Lafia in Nasarawa State, in the North Central, Nigeria, was born on September 20, 2005. He is Known for his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport, and has already made a name for himself at the age of 18. From a young age, it was evident that Tijani possessed a natural affinity for football. His passion for the game was nurtured by his father who is passionate about football; he’s a senior lecturer with the federal University lafia, Nasarawa state, who recognized his son’s potential and encouraged him to pursue his dreams. Under the mentorship of a renowned Sports personal, Moses Amos Momoh, he began training vigorously, honing his skills and pushing himself to excel both on and off the field. At the age of 12, Tijani joined a local youth academy, where his abilities quickly caught the attention of scouts and coaches. With his remarkable speed, agility, and technical prowess, he quickly became a standout player in his age group. His exceptional dribbling skills and vision on the field set him apart from his peers, and it was evident that he had the potential to become a future star.
As Tijani progressed through the ranks, his performances continued to impress, and he soon caught the eyes of several professional clubs. At the age of 16, he joined a more professional football club the VETERAN SPORT FOOTBALL CLUB, a renowned club based in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in his young career. The move presented him with new challenges and opportunities to further develop his skills in a highly competitive environment. Despite his young age, Tijani’s talent and determination have earned him a place in the senior squad of his club. He has already made his debut in major competitions, showcasing his skills and making a positive impact on the field. His versatility as a player, being equally proficient as a central defender and an attacking midfielder , has been a valuable asset to his team. Off the field, Tijani is known for his humility and strong work ethic. He understands the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle and places a strong emphasis on discipline, nutrition, and physical fitness. He is constantly striving to improve his game and seeks inspiration from legendary footballers who have left a lasting mark on the sport. As an 18-year-old footballer with immense potential, Tijani is poised to make a significant impact on the global football stage. With his technical abilities, tactical intelligence, and unwavering determination, he has all the qualities required to become a future footballing sensation. Football enthusiasts and experts eagerly await his continued development and anticipate a bright and successful career ahead.
The Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, has warned that senators will take drastic action against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio over his remarks on “token for the Senators.” The Senate President had on Monday before proceeding on annual recess, said a token had been sent to the lawmakers to enable them to “enjoy their holidays.” Speaking at an interview with the BBC Hausa service yesterday, Ndume said that Akpabio’s comments are unbecoming of a leader. According to him, the money received was their statutory entitlement and nothing special. “It’s common knowledge that if any employee is going on leave, he/she is entitled to a leave grant. “That was the money we received, and it is nothing unusual or special. “All senators received two million naira. And I am making this comment with a heavy heart, because he (Akpabio) is the cause of this controversy. “He created an impression as if we were given some special or huge amounts of money. What’s the big deal if I receive two million naira allowance in my capacity as a senator? “He made a very wrong statement, and I warned him immediately that his comments were unbecoming of an elder. “In fact, we are even planning to take drastic action against him if he continues making unguarded statements and acting as if we are kids.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari have expressed shock over the death of the Nigerian Ambassador to France, Kayode Laaro. A statement today, August 12, by the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on media and publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, quoted President Tinubu as saying: “our nation has lost an exemplary diplomat.” The President said that he was profoundly saddened by the news of the passing of Ambassador Kayode Laaro Tinubu acknowledged Ambassador Laaro’s tireless dedication in fostering mutually-beneficial diplomatic ties between Nigeria and France during his tenure. He said that the commitment of the deceased to diplomacy and the impactful role he played in ensuring the success of his visit to France in June this year, which was his first foreign trip after his assumption of office, was remarkable. “Having devoted himself fully to his duties during 35 illustrious years in service as a Nigerian diplomat, spanning from 1983 to 2018,” President Tinubu said , adding that his profound grasp of geo-political intricacies and how he aptly harnessed his wealth of skill and experience in multilateral diplomacy to advance worldwide peace, security, and development will be remembered. The President said that the appointment Laaro , a Fellow of the National Defence College as an Ambassador in July 2020 to represent Nigeria in France was in recognition of his widely respected expertise and dedication. ‘I will always hold cherished memories of my interactions with him during my attendance at the New Global Financial Pact Summit in France this June. “His unwavering dedication and strong sense of duty left an indelible mark. May his legacy continue to inspire us to strive for a more harmonious and prosperous world.” President Tinubu prayed that Almighty God will continue to console Ambassador Laaro’s family, friends, and colleagues while granting eternal rest to the departed soul. Also, ex President Buhari condoled with the family of Ambassador Laaro, the government and people of Kwara State over the death of the Ambassador. In a statement by his former Senior Special Assistant on media and publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, Buhari described Ambassador Laaro as an outstanding public officer who believed in strong Nigeria-France relationship. He said that the deceased diplomat left behind indelible marks on matters of governance and policy for which he will be remembered. According to him, his term as ambassador marked an iconic moment in the relations between Nigeria and France. Buhari prayed to Allah to rest his soul.
The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has promised to apply a Masterstroke towards the transformation of the youths in the State. He said: “soon, we will begin the implementation of the many recommendations by the Youth Advisory Council put up shortly after last year’s election, and it promises to be a masterstroke in our desire to drive progress and transformation for youth in Osun state.” The Governor vowed that his commitment to the upliftment of youth in the state remains unwavering. The Governor, in a message signed by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, to commemorate this year’s International Youth Day, said that his government is already putting in place, mechanism for young people to make good use of their potentials. Describing youth as the future that must be nurtured and supported, Governor Adeleke acknowledged the creativity, resourcefulness and potential of young people in the state. He said that the theme of this year’s event: “Youth: Shaping Our Future,” underscores the interest of his government in youth development. The Governor announced that his government is revising the existing policy on youth development and will create implementation plan that will make it possible for young people to achieve the needed growth as well as prepare them for the future. The Governor said that his administration has developed a climate agenda which has the youth at the center of its implementation. According to the Governor, the Climate Advisory Council is developing a state climate policy whose implementation will be driven by youth and women, adding that he has instructed the council members to integrate youth and women in the policy design process. “On this International Youth Day, I celebrate the incredible potentials of our young people and reaffirm my commitment to their developments. “As a government, we have demonstrated interest in promoting young people as can be seen in the numbers we have given opportunities to serve in one capacity or the other. Beyond this, we are working on a broader approach to ensure that youth can play their role in shaping our present and future. Governor Adeleke called on young people to embrace their strength, especially in innovative thinking, to contribute significantly to the growth and sustainable development in the society, urging them to shun any act of criminality that would hurt people around them
The Defence Headquarters has described as “wicked and unpatriotic” a call on the Military to overthrow engage in a military coup to oust President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The call for the military take over of barely three month old government was said to have contained in a report on welfare issues in the Armed Forces of Nigeria. And in a statement today, August 12, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, emphasized that it is both unpatriotic, and wicked. Gusau said that contrary to insinuations in the report, the welfare of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Is being properly taken care of, adding that the Military is better off under democratic rule. “The Defence Headquarters frown at a report being circulated online about welfare issues in the Armed Forces of Nigeria. “The report’s call on the military to interfere in our democracy is highly unpatriotic, wicked, and an attempt to distract the Armed Forces of Nigeria from performing its constitutional responsibilities. “While the leadership of the AFN gives priority to welfare of its personnel however, we detest any attempt by any individual or group to instigate the law abiding Armed Forces of Nigeria to embark on any unconstitutional change of government in our country. “We wish to state unequivocally that the military is happy and better under democracy and will not get involved in any act to sabotage the hard-earned democracy in our country. “The AFN under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa is determined to ensure complete subordination of the Armed Forces to constitutional authority under His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and will not be distracted from its roles that are well defined in the 1999 constitution (as amended).”
President Bola Tinubu has expressed delight in the ‘Heritage Voyage of Return,’ an initiative aimed at reuniting Afro-descendants with their African roots. According to the President, the programme will not only re-awaken the historical awareness of society by bringing back memories of what happened many years ago, but will also create economic benefits. The President spoke when he received a delegation from Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, along with the initiators of the project, in audience yesterday in Abuja. “Reconnecting Afro-Brazilians with their African roots will be an iconic project that will rekindle our past and light up the spirit of our ancestors. It will re-awaken memories of what happened many years ago. And it is a good thing that this is coming now at a time when we are working on expanding the frontiers of freedom and democracy in Africa.” President Tinubu thanked Professor Soyinka for supporting the initiative and for his commitment and patriotism over the years, even as he emphasized that the project would also come with economic benefits that must be leveraged. “This is an important project that must be pursued.” Earlier, Professor Wale Adeniran, who led the delegation, had said that the history of the project dated back to when the Lagos Black Heritage Festival began. “Because this an identical project, the initiators of the Heritage Voyage of Return discussed the plan with Professor Soyinka, who also endorsed it.” Professor Adeniran described the Heritage Voyage of Return as a historic maritime journey that will begin in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, making stops at various African nations and terminating in Lagos. He said that the team had come to seek President Tinubu’s endorsement and for him to formally invite the Afro-descendants from Brazil home. Other members of the delegation are Carolina Maira Morais, a Brazilian, and Ajoyemi Olabisi Osunleye, a Nigerian. Morais noted that there are around 126 million Afro-descendants in Brazil, stating that the project would be integrating the two nations together, “Nigeria, the largest black population and the leading economy in Africa, and Brazil, a giant of South America. There are many African traditional families in Brazil. “But no African country has gone to Brazil to identify and connect with them,” she said. Morais stated that Brazilian President Lula da Silva is planning to visit Nigeria and has a special heart for Africa while also describing Professor Soyinka as a hero and icon in Brazil.
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The Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani has called on media houses, social media users and macro-blogging sites to desist from being used by mischief makers to cause unnecessary tension in the country.
Nigeria/Niger Face-Off, Tinubu Walking On Tight Rope, By Sule Lamido
In the last couple of days, two brotherly and sisterly countries were almost on the brink of war neither of which any of them could fathom or justify. The big brother Nigeria has become entangled in a far fetched multilateral moral pretense of regional formation called ECOWAS that it has jettison its fundamental primary responsibility to the constituency (Nigeria) that gave it the legal authority to that membership.
Since the coup deta in Niger some weeks back, President Tinubu has found himself walking on a very tight rope. He has never been exposed to international diplomacy and can fittingly be called a novice in this field. The fact that he is an emperor with total dominance of the most populous and prosperous State of Lagos does not confer on him any wisdom in diplomacy. But he is also the luckiest Nigerian president had he desired to harvest from the wisdom and experience of former Presidents and Heads of State Nigeria is so richly blessed with.
I thought President Tinubu would have from the onset looked into the chemistry of the cocktail called ECOWAS before taking weighty decision on any issue that affects the region and its consequences on his country which he is presidenting! Had he done so, he would have found out what is the history of One of the oldest members the region that is President Alassane Quattara of Ivory Coasta. There was a time when Quattara’s nationality was in dispute, that his ancestoral country was Mali. President Lauren Ghabbo disqualified him from running as president even though he was at one time the prime Minister of Ivory Coast! But today he is the President of Ivory Coast. By a twist of fate there is today a military junta in Mali (his ancestral home) running the country and we have not heard President Quattara asking for a war to be launched on Mali in the name of DEMOCRACY. The saying blood is thicker than readily comes to mind.
Back to Nigeria and the face off with Niger. There is total unanimity in Nigeria that we should not go to war with Niger for the so many many reasons given by all and sundry especially the seven States contiguous to Niger Republic! In any case the Senate mandated by Nigerian Constitution to authorize the President with such power has unambiguously withheld that authority.
The next thing for President Tinibu now is to embark on damage control and repair and this brings him to the time to now harvest from the connection and wisdom of our former Presidents and Heads of State as someone rightly advised over BBC Hausa service. These Leaders are highly respected and trusted not only in our sub region but globally. It true there is no love lost between President Tinubu and some of them, but certainly, on any issue that affects Nigeria no matter how remote, those Leaders will always be there for Nigeria! Time is not on the side of both countries. What we had in last one thousand years has been lost in matter of few weeks. But we have the bond and love for each other to build on. May Allah bless Nigeria and Niger. Ameen.
Lamido is former Nigerian Foreign Minister.