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₦500,000 Relief For Kasuwar Daji Victims As NDC Demands Security Overhaul

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Zamfara State Chapter has donated ₦500,000 to support victims and families affected by the latest bandit attack in Kasuwar Daji, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, where gunmen abducted an yet to be ascertained number of residents.

In a statement issued at the end of the visit and signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Kasim Almustapha Kayatawa, the NDC said it stands in full solidarity with the people of Kasuwar Daji and all communities bearing the brunt of banditry in Zamfara.

The party said the gesture was made during a sympathy visit, even as it demanded immediate and decisive intervention from both the Federal and Zamfara State Governments to halt the cycle of violence that has continued to devastate communities across the state.

Leading a high-powered delegation to Kasuwar Daji, the State Deputy Chairman of the NDC, Alhaji Atiku Durbi Birnin Magaji, described the attack as “heartbreaking and unacceptable.”

“This is yet another painful reminder of the enormous human cost of the insecurity confronting our people in Zamfara,” Alhaji Durbi said. “We are here not just to donate, but to stand with our brothers and sisters whose lives have been shattered. Behind every report of an attack are real people, parents, children, husbands, wives, and breadwinners now living in fear and uncertainty.”

The NDC deputy chairman strongly condemned the assault and called on security agencies to urgently scale up operations, improve intelligence gathering, and deploy adequate personnel to Kaura Namoda and other flashpoints in the state.

“Protecting lives and property is the primary duty of any government,” he stated. “The people of Zamfara deserve more than press statements and condolences after every attack. What we need now is concrete action that will allow our people to farm, trade, and move freely without looking over their shoulders.”

He also urged for intensified security patrols across Kaura Namoda LGA and other vulnerable areas to restore public confidence and prevent further abductions.

During the visit, the NDC delegation offered prayers for the safe return of all those abducted, for Aljannatul Firdaus for those killed, and for quick recovery for the injured. The party also prayed for strength and reward for security operatives who have lost their lives defending communities.

Other members of the delegation included Hon. Salmanu Sani Haidara, Deputy State Welfare Secretary; Auwal Alhassan Alhazzai, Zonal Vice Chairman, Zamfara North; and other party leaders and stakeholders.

“The Nigeria Democratic Congress remains committed to speaking for the voiceless and pushing for policies that guarantee peace, justice, and the welfare of Zamfara people,” the statement read.

The attack on Kasuwar Daji adds to growing concerns over insecurity in northern Zamfara, where residents have repeatedly called for stronger government presence and better protection of rural communities.

Nigerian Press Council Seeks Partnership with EFCC in Anti-Graft Campaign

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By Sunday Apah

The Nigerian Press Council (NPC) has requested closer cooperation with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in tackling corruption as well as economic and financial crimes.

The appeal was presented on Wednesday, 5 August 2026, when the Council’s Executive Secretary, Dr Dili Ezughah, led a senior management delegation on a courtesy visit to the EFCC’s corporate headquarters.

Dr Ezughah praised the Commission for its productive media engagement and its steadfast dedication to transparency, accountability, integrity and good governance.

He observed that this dedication has made a meaningful contribution to Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.

Describing the EFCC as a strategic national institution, he expressed gratitude for the Commission’s professional dealings with journalists and stressed the vital role of a free, responsible and ethical press in advancing public accountability.

He also voiced the Council’s desire to establish a mutually beneficial and lasting partnership with the EFCC.

In his remarks, Dr Ezughah stated: “The Nigerian Press Council regards the EFCC as a strategic national institution whose unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, integrity and good governance has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s fight against corruption.

We also commend the Commission’s commitment to engaging the media professionally and its recognition of the important role of a free, responsible and ethical press in promoting public accountability.

We look forward to building a mutually beneficial and enduring relationship with the Commission.”

He suggested several areas for joint work, including shared capacity-building programmes for journalists, coordinated public awareness campaigns on economic crimes, formal channels for information exchange, and collaborative research and advocacy aimed at strengthening media ethics and accountability.

Such cooperation, he said, would increase public trust in the anti-corruption drive and encourage more responsible journalism.

Dr Ezughah also highlighted practical difficulties facing the Council, notably the lack of a permanent headquarters and operational vehicles.

These shortcomings, he explained, have reduced operational efficiency, limited stakeholder engagement and constrained training activities.

Responding on behalf of EFCC Executive Chairman Ola Olukoyede, Secretary to the Commission Muhammad Hammajoda welcomed the visit and promised to convey the Council’s positions to the Chairman.

“I want to assure you that we are delighted with this visit. I have noted all you said and I wish to assure you that your positions will be duly communicated to the Executive Chairman,” he said.

Hammajoda acknowledged the NPC’s important function in upholding professional standards and ethical practice within the media.

He stated: “I wish to appreciate you all for the sacred role you play in upholding press standards and fostering a harmonious relationship between the media and members of the public, as well as in monitoring the activities of the press with the view of ensuring media houses’ compliance with the code of professional and ethical conduct.

“I wish to state here that we hold the press in high esteem as one of our critical stakeholders. Indeed, the Nigerian press has been an indispensable partner in our successes as a Commission and I wish to assure you that we relish the cordial relationship and have been doing our utmost to sustain it.”

He encouraged the Council to intensify its efforts, noting that the growth of unregulated new media has made its responsibilities more demanding. “I wish to emphasise that yours is an onerous task, especially with the unregulated proliferation of the new media. The increasing expansion of the media space can only mean more work, focus and dedication from you.”

Hammajoda reaffirmed the EFCC’s readiness to work with the NPC in support of the anti-corruption campaign, adding: “We value collaboration, being one of our core values. And will collaborate with you.”

Investment in Realistic, Mission-Oriented Training Remains Fundamental to Achieving Operational Success – COAS

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By Sunday Apah

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged soldiers graduating from Exercise RESTORE HOPE X to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and operational excellence as they prepare to serve in the Nigerian Army’s newly established divisions, formations and units.

Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele who posted the news on the official Facebook account of the Army Headquarters, stated that the COAS gave the charge on Friday, 7 August 2026, during the graduation ceremony of the Advanced Infantry Training Programme, code-named Exercise RESTORE HOPE X, held at the Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATC), Kachia, Kaduna State.

He described the programme as the flagship of the Nigerian Army’s post-basic infantry training framework, deliberately designed to sharpen combat proficiency, strengthen the warrior ethos and prepare soldiers for the complex realities of contemporary military operations.

Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that the graduation comes at a defining period in the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Army, which is currently undertaking one of the most deliberate force expansion and capability enhancement initiatives in its history.

He disclosed that, following the approval of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the restructuring of the Nigerian Army, additional divisions, formations and units have been established to optimise force disposition and improve operational responsiveness to the nation’s evolving security threats.

He explained that many of the graduating soldiers would constitute the nucleus of these new formations and are expected to translate their training into operational effectiveness.

The Army Chief urged the graduands to justify the significant investment made in their training by demonstrating exceptional professionalism, sound judgment and unwavering commitment to mission accomplishment.

He encouraged them to remain physically fit, mentally agile and technologically proficient, continually adapt to emerging threats, embrace innovation and uphold the highest standards of discipline, respect for the rule of law, protection of human rights and strict compliance with the rules of engagement throughout their careers.

The COAS expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Army’s operational, training and administrative requirements, describing the President’s strategic guidance and continued investment as instrumental to the Service’s ongoing transformation and force expansion.

He stressed that sustained investment in realistic, mission-oriented training remains fundamental to building a highly skilled fighting force capable of achieving decisive operational success across all theatres.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Training (Army), Major General Valentine Okoro, described Exercise RESTORE HOPE X as a critical pillar of the Nigerian Army’s training architecture that has consistently produced highly motivated, combat-ready soldiers who have distinguished themselves across various theatres of operation.

He noted that the comprehensive training programme exposed trainees to realistic operational scenarios, tactical operations, marksmanship, field craft, combat endurance, leadership development and counter-insurgency operations, while significantly enhancing their confidence, decision-making ability and battlefield competence.

He further added that the exercise has strengthened institutional capacity by standardising post-basic infantry training, refining instructional methodologies and promoting continuous improvement across the Nigerian Army’s training establishments.

Cemetery Manager Implicated in Heinous Corpse Desecration, Casket Theft Scheme

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By Sunday Apah

In a shocking turn of events that has sent shivers down the spine of Nigeria, operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have apprehended Nsikak Effiong and Elijah Edet, the manager of Mbiokporo Cemetery.

The duo stands accused of a heinous conspiracy to exhume a freshly interred corpse, not for any ritualistic purpose, but for the callous intent of pilfering and reselling the deceased’s casket for illicit financial gain.

The gruesome details of this sacrilegious act were unveiled by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, in a statement released to journalists in Uyo on Thursday.

The macabre incident unfolded on Monday at approximately 11:30 PM in Nsit-Ibom, when a vigilant operative, whose keen observation proved instrumental, reported suspicious activities within the cemetery grounds.

The operative witnessed two individuals surreptitiously transporting a casket on an unregistered motorcycle under the shroud of darkness.

Upon confrontation by the courageous operative, one of the suspects, identified as Effiong Asuquo, made a desperate bid for escape, vanishing into the night.

However, his accomplice, Nsikak Effiong, was swiftly apprehended and subsequently handed over to the authorities.

During intense interrogation, Effiong confessed to the abhorrent crime, admitting that he and his accomplice had unlawfully exhumed a recently buried corpse, callously removed the remains from the casket, and absconded with the coffin, intending to hawk it for profit.

DSP John further disclosed that the stolen, now empty, casket and the unregistered motorcycle used in the commission of the crime have been recovered.

A comprehensive investigation has been launched to meticulously uncover the full extent of this depraved act and identify all individuals connected to it.

The relentless pursuit of justice led to a significant breakthrough on Wednesday at approximately 5:00 PM, with the arrest of the Mbiokporo Cemetery manager, Elijah Edet.

Under interrogation, Edet confessed to his complicity, admitting to conspiring with grave diggers in the execution of the offense.

He claimed this was his inaugural venture into such a reprehensible criminal enterprise.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, has vehemently condemned the incident, branding it as “barbaric, sacrilegious, morally reprehensible, and a gross violation of the dignity of the dead.”

He has issued stringent directives for a comprehensive, intelligence-driven, and professionally conducted investigation to ensure that every individual connected with this abominable crime is identified, apprehended, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

The CP lauded the exceptional vigilance, courage, and profound sense of civic responsibility demonstrated by the operative whose prompt intervention and report were pivotal in thwarting the suspects’ attempt to escape with the stolen casket.

While urging residents to maintain heightened security awareness and continue to provide timely and credible information to the police, the statement confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with intensified efforts underway to apprehend the fleeing suspect.

Public Lecture: Oyovbaire Distinguished Himself Through Intellectual Excellence, Integrity, Unyielding Dedication to Nation-Building – Oborevwori

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By Sunday Apah

Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has underscored the indispensable requirement for visionary, competent and selfless leadership to consolidate Nigeria’s democratic foundations, insisting that robust institutions can only prosper under the guidance of leaders marked by integrity, character and patriotism.

He made the assertion on Thursday during the inaugural Professor Sam Oyovbaire Public Service Lecture at the main auditorium of Southern Delta University, Orerokpe Campus.

In a glowing tribute, the governor celebrated the distinguished political scientist and former Minister of Information for his exceptional scholarly contributions and service to national development.

Represented by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari, Governor Oborevwori hailed the establishment of the annual lecture series as an appropriate acknowledgement of Professor Oyovbaire’s lasting imprint on academia and public life.

“I congratulate Southern Delta University for instituting this lecture series to celebrate a man whose scholarship and public service have enriched our democratic journey,” he declared.

He observed that Professor Oyovbaire had distinguished himself through intellectual excellence, integrity and an unyielding dedication to nation-building.

His body of work, the governor noted, had profoundly deepened national comprehension of democracy, governance and federalism while inspiring successive generations of scholars and public servants.

Oborevwori characterised the lecture theme, “Federal Statecraft without Crafters: The Nigerian Predicament,” as both timely and intellectually stimulating, emphasising that it highlights the decisive influence of leadership on the vitality of democratic institutions.

No system of government, he maintained, can succeed without capable and visionary leaders wholly devoted to the collective welfare of the citizenry.

“Strong institutions are important, but they can only flourish when guided by men and women of character, competence and patriotism,” he affirmed.

The governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to good governance, inclusive development and policies designed to enhance the well-being of Deltans through the consistent implementation of the M.O.R.E. Agenda.

He stressed that the state government continues to demonstrate that purposeful leadership, prudent stewardship of public resources and effective collaboration remain essential pillars of sustainable development and tangible progress.

Oborevwori further encouraged participants to engage vigorously in the deliberations and convert the ideas generated into concrete measures capable of reinforcing Nigeria’s democracy and propelling national advancement.

He congratulated Professor Oyovbaire on the honour conferred upon him and praised the management of Southern Delta University for inaugurating the lecture series, describing it as a commendable initiative that will foster rigorous intellectual discourse and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s democratic evolution.

The occasion drew attendance from members of the Delta State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, the Vice Chancellor of Southern Delta University, Professor Sunny Awhefeada, senior government officials, academics, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other eminent guests.

BREAKING: Delta’s Highway Nightmare Ends in Dramatic Rescue As Governor Oborevwori Delivers Swift, Decisive Rehabilitation (Videos)

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By Sunday Apah

In a bold and decisive move that has sent a sigh of relief across the Delta State, Obakpor Engineering Construction Limited has officially commenced the urgent rehabilitation of the long-failed section of the Benin–Warri Highway at Mosogar.

This critical intervention, prompted by the proactive Delta State Government, signals a thunderous end to months of harrowing commuting ordeals that have plagued motorists and residents alike with treacherous potholes, gridlock nightmares, and life-threatening hazards.

The commencement of this monumental project underscores a remarkable display of governmental responsiveness.

Under the visionary leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Delta State Government moved with unparalleled alacrity to address the deteriorating infrastructure, transforming what was once a symbol of governmental neglect into a beacon of progressive development.

This swift action exemplifies a leadership style that is both empathetic and uncompromising in its pursuit of infrastructural excellence.

Kudos to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, whose prompt response and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people have once again reaffirmed his reputation as a listening leader par excellence.

In an era where political rhetoric often overshadows tangible results, Oborevwori continues to distinguish himself by placing the paramount interests of Deltans at the forefront of his administration’s agenda, demonstrating an intimidating resolve to tackle challenges head-on without bureaucratic procrastination.

The failed section at Mosogar had become a notorious death trap, inflicting economic sabotage through prolonged travel delays, inflated transportation costs, and heightened risks of accidents that claimed innocent lives and maimed countless others.

With Obakpor Engineering Construction Limited now mobilized on site, the rehabilitation promises to restore not just asphalt and concrete, but also the dignity, safety, and economic vitality of communities that have endured these infrastructural atrocities for far too long.

Motorists and business operators traversing this vital artery have expressed overwhelming jubilation at the development.

The highway serves as a critical lifeline connecting major commercial hubs, facilitating trade, agriculture, and social interactions between Benin and Warri.

Its restoration is expected to catalyze exponential growth in regional commerce, reduce vehicular maintenance expenses, and drastically curtail the grim statistics of road fatalities that once loomed like a malevolent shadow over daily commutes.

GISG Will Strengthen Grassroots Mobilisation for Sheriff In 2027, Says London Coordinator 

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By Mathias Ogbagah 

The Coordinator of the Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027, London Chapter, Ms Kehinde Agboola, has reaffirmed her commitment to the group’s vision of mobilising grassroots support across Delta State, expressing confidence that the movement will play a significant role in promoting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an interview, Agboola disclosed that she had planned to travel to Nigeria to participate in the proposed inauguration and flag-off ceremony of the group’s structures across the 25 local government areas, initially scheduled for July 25, 2026. Although the event was postponed, she said the development had not weakened her confidence in the organisation, noting that it would instead allow for better planning and broader participation.

She described the Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027 as a well-organised and inclusive movement committed to grassroots mobilisation, youth and women participation, public enlightenment and peaceful democratic engagement. According to her, the group’s vision of uniting Deltans at home and in the diaspora behind sustainable development and continuity in governance aligns with the aspirations of many residents of the state.

Commenting on the 2027 general elections, Agboola said the polls would provide Deltans with another opportunity to assess leadership based on performance, stability and continuity. She stressed the need for issue-based campaigns and peaceful political participation, adding that supporters of the governor would continue to engage citizens respectfully while showcasing the administration’s achievements.

The London-based coordinator also commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, describing it as a development-driven policy framework focused on infrastructure, economic growth, peace, inclusion and improved welfare for the people. She expressed the belief that the administration’s emphasis on practical governance and continuity had earned it the support of many Deltans.

Assessing the governor’s years in office, Agboola said the administration had demonstrated commitment to infrastructure development, continuity of projects and policies aimed at improving the lives of the people. She explained that her decision to join the Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027 was informed by her conviction that constructive support for purposeful leadership is essential to democratic governance.

On the prospects of Governor Oborevwori’s re-election, Agboola maintained that the final decision rests with the electorate but expressed confidence that if the administration continues to deliver on its promises and sustain developmental projects, many voters would consider its performance favourably at the polls.

She further assured members of the group that she would return from the United Kingdom to Nigeria for the inauguration and flag-off ceremony once a new date is announced, if her schedule permits. Agboola described the event as a significant milestone for the movement and pledged her continued support toward the success of the Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027 across Delta State.

Zulum’s Urban Renewal: Borno Begins Major Road, Drainage Upgrade in Federal Low-Cost Estate

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By Abdullahi Alhassan

Residents of Ibrahim Taiwo Estate (ITE), popularly known as the Federal Low-Cost Housing Estate along Baga Road in Maiduguri, have held a stakeholder engagement meeting with the Borno State team of the Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons and Host Communities (SOLID) Project ahead of the rehabilitation of 7 kilometres of roads and drainage infrastructure within the community.

The engagement marks a significant milestone for the estate, as it is the first major road rehabilitation project to be undertaken in the community since its establishment about 50 years ago.

The stakeholder consultation, held in line with the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standard 10 (ESS10), brought together residents, community leaders, project officials and other key stakeholders to discuss the scope, benefits and implementation framework of the project.

Speaking during the meeting, the Coordinator and Team Lead of the SOLID Project, Babazanna Abdulkarim described stakeholder engagement as the foundation for effective and sustainable infrastructure delivery.

He noted that meaningful engagement with communities helps build trust, strengthen partnerships and ensure that projects respond to the needs and priorities of beneficiaries.

According to Abdulkarim, the Borno State Government under the leadership of Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum has approved the rehabilitation of roads and reconstruction of drainage systems within the Federal Low-Cost Housing Estate to improve infrastructure and address long-standing environmental challenges.

He explained that involving residents throughout the project cycle would foster a sense of ownership and encourage the protection and maintenance of the infrastructure upon completion.

Abdulkarim further stated that proactive engagement would enable the project team to identify and address grievances before they escalate into disputes or delays, stressing that the World Bank-assisted project is committed to transparency, accountability and inclusiveness.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining an effective Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) to provide affected persons with accessible channels for raising concerns and seeking remedies, in line with the provisions of ESS10.

The Team Lead added that the SOLID Project operates within communities hosting internally displaced persons (IDPs) and vulnerable populations, making it necessary to ensure that women, youth and persons with disabilities are adequately represented in decision-making processes.

He also highlighted the need to continuously implement the approved Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) and update it based on community feedback to ensure the project remains responsive to local realities.

The road and drainage intervention is expected to address recurring flooding and environmental challenges within the estate while improving access and mobility for residents.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has, over the years, undertaken extensive road construction and rehabilitation projects across Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State as part of his urban renewal and infrastructure development agenda. The intervention in the Federal Low-Cost Housing Estate follows concerns raised by residents during one of the governor’s community engagement visits, during which he assured them of government support.

Speaking on behalf of the community, the Community Leader of the estate, Ba Bulama Alhaji Bukar Mustapha commended Governor Zulum for responding to the needs of residents and for his commitment to infrastructure development across the state.

He assured the government and project implementation team of the community’s full cooperation and support to ensure the successful execution and sustainability of the project.

Similarly, the Acting Chairman of the Estate Tenants Association, Alhaji Surajo Jibrin, expressed appreciation to Governor Zulum and the SOLID Project team for initiating the intervention.

According to him, the rehabilitation project will significantly reduce flooding, protect lives and property, and improve environmental conditions within the community, particularly during the rainy season when residents often experience severe water-related challenges.

The residents also acknowledged the contributions of the Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mustapha Ali Busuguma, Dauda Iliya , Dogo M Shettima , Usman Ali Busuguma and other prominent stakeholders for their roles in facilitating the project and supporting the development of the estate.

Arewa Group Unveils Action Plan to End Insecurity in Northern Nigeria

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Arewa Cohesion for Unity, Peace and Development Initiative, ACI, has resolved to move beyond talkshops and communiqués, unveiling what it described as an enforcement-driven framework to confront insecurity across Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at a security summit convened by the group in Kaduna on Wednesday, ACI Director-General, Dr. Abdullahi Idris, said the initiative was designed to produce “workable, actionable solutions” by bringing together security experts, traditional rulers, youth and women groups, civil society organizations, and ordinary citizens.

According to him, what distinguishes this intervention from previous efforts is follow-through. At the end of the summit, ACI will issue a communiqué outlining specific responsibilities for federal, state and local governments, as well as for civil society and community groups. The organization will then engage each stakeholder individually to monitor compliance.

“This initiative will endure even after this. It is not going to be a talk show where papers are presented, big grammar, and we disperse,” Dr. Idris told participants.

To sustain momentum, ACI said it will set up a dedicated monitoring desk at its secretariat, train and deploy peace and youth ambassadors, and carry out outreach every quarter across the North, not limited to Kaduna.

Root causes beyond guns

Dr. Idris identified unemployment, poverty, drug abuse and the Almajiri system as the key drivers of insecurity, arguing that a purely kinetic response cannot end the crisis.

“The kinetic approach that government is using right now is okay, it’s good, it’s helpful, but it’s not enough,” he said.

“Any society where people cannot get employment, farmers cannot go to farm, businesses are dying, industries have collapsed, it’s a breeding ground for all sorts of anti-social behavior.”

He warned that Almajiri children across the region remain a vulnerable recruitment pool for insurgents and bandits, and called for urgent reforms to address the system.

On youth engagement, the ACI boss said the group is working directly with youth organizations to reach young people in their communities, rather than assembling them at central venues.
“It is more effective if you reach them where they are and you enlighten them, and you empower them, and you talk to them, and you counsel them,” he explained, noting that bringing potentially volatile youths to a single gathering could be counterproductive.

He described insecurity as the biggest challenge confronting the North and said the summit’s theme, “United Action Against Insecurity,” was a deliberate attempt to set aside religious and ethnic affiliations.

“Security is everybody’s business,” Dr. Idris said. “We are putting aside all our affiliations and looking squarely at the issue of insecurity. By the grace of God, we shall succeed.”

Leaders urged to prioritize security ahead of 2027

Delivering remarks as Special Guest, Hon. Dr. Muhammad Ali painted a grim picture of communities across Northern Nigeria that have suffered years of insurgency, banditry and violent attacks, with devastating effects on livelihoods, agriculture, education and local economies.

He criticized what he called inadequate and reactive responses by authorities, saying temporary interventions have failed to address the structural causes of insecurity.

Dr. Ali urged Northern leaders and citizens to demand greater accountability from those in authority, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, he called on voters to make security, peace and good governance the central criteria in choosing leaders.
“The region should prioritise leaders capable of restoring safety, justice and economic stability,” he said, “while rejecting politics driven by ethnic divisions, partisan interests and short-term incentives.”

Summit resolutions

At the close of the summit, participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, promoting peaceful coexistence, and developing practical solutions to end kidnapping, killings and displacement across Northern Nigeria.

They also resolved to sustain dialogue among governments, traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society organizations and local communities as part of a coordinated effort to restore lasting peace in the region.

ACI officials said the monitoring desk and quarterly engagements will begin immediately, with the first round of community outreach scheduled for the coming months.

Uba Sani Corrects 8-Year Injustice as 37 LG Workers Win Reinstatement

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By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

In a sweeping act of redress, Governor Uba Sani on Tuesday ordered the immediate reinstatement of 37 local government workers in Kaduna State who were wrongfully disengaged nearly eight years ago, closing a chapter of uncertainty that began in 2017 and 2018.

The reinstatement, carried out by the Kaduna State Local Government Service Board, follows a full administrative review that found the original disengagement exercise violated due process and fairness. For the affected staff and their families, the decision ends almost a decade of unemployment, hardship and waiting.

Presenting the reinstatement letters to the beneficiaries in Kaduna, the Chairman of the Kaduna State Local Government Service Board, Professor Aminu Ladan Sherehu, said the governor gave his approval after the review confirmed irregularities in the 2017/2018 exercise.

“This action underscores His Excellency Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to correcting administrative injustices, upholding due process, and restoring confidence in our public service,” Prof. Sherehu stated.

He stressed that the move is about more than returning people to work.

“It is also about strengthening the local government system by bringing back experienced personnel whose knowledge and expertise are critical for effective grassroots governance and improved service delivery to our people,” he added.

The development drew swift praise from labour and civil society.

Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Kaduna State Council, Comrade Ayuba Magaji Suleiman, described the governor’s intervention as courageous and compassionate.

“This is a long-standing labour issue that has caused pain for many families. Governor Uba Sani has demonstrated leadership and respect for workers’ rights by addressing it head-on,” Comrade Suleiman said.

Several of the reinstated workers were visibly emotional as they received their letters. For many, the moment marked the end of nearly a decade of uncertainty, unemployment and financial hardship.

“This is a life-changing decision,” one of the beneficiaries said. “For eight years we lived with uncertainty. Today, hope has been restored. We thank Governor Uba Sani for giving us a second chance to serve Kaduna State.”

The workers pledged to reciprocate the gesture with “renewed dedication, loyalty and professionalism” in the discharge of their duties.

Political observers and civil society groups in the state have described the reinstatement as the latest example of Governor Uba Sani’s people-centred governance agenda.

Since assuming office, the governor has prioritized workers’ welfare, inclusive governance, and institutional reforms across the state’s ministries, departments and local governments.

The administration argues that restoring experienced hands to the local government system will help bridge capacity gaps and improve service delivery at the grassroots, where most citizens directly interact with government.

With this latest intervention, the Kaduna State Government says it remains committed to protecting workers’ rights, promoting justice and fairness, and building public institutions that Nigerians can trust.

The 37 reinstated staff are expected to resume duties at their respective local government councils immediately.

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