Sunday 28 February 2021

Former Army Boss Restates Gratitude To President Buhari and Nigerians




The immediate past Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), has reiterated his sincere gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR for appointing him as Chief of Army Staff and further added that he discharged his responsibilities to the best of his ability. He also showered encomiums to Nigerians from various walks of life that supported him with prayers, advises, and words of encouragement that made him achieve so much as COAS. General Buratai stated this last night while speaking at a dinner organised in his honour by members of 29th Regular Course Foundation, held at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Abuja.
In his words, General Buratai said, “I must appreciate all Nigerians, my well-wishers, the youths, elders, men and women for their continuous prayers, goodwill and support to the Nigerian Army and me in the course of our duties to bring about peace and security in our country.” He also thanked the Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and his northeast counterparts, who have “All worked hard to ensure that the insurgency in the northeast have reached what we have today; a manageable state and the progress have been quite tremendous so far.”
Going down memory lane earlier, the former COAS said that his appointment was a special price for his father, the late Alhaji Yusufu Buratai, a well-known staunch loyalist of President Buhari. It will be recalled that General Buratai’s father, a Second World War veteran, served as a Non-Commissioned Officer in the Royal West African Frontier Force fighting in Burma.
Speaking further, he expressed appreciation to the members of the 29th Regular Course Association for being such wonderful friends and course mates and organising such a befitting event in his honour, adding that he felt so happy to be celebrated. It means a lot to him and his family. “It is also a mark of fulfilment and pride that you have been recognised for the service you have rendered to your nation and your people,” he stated.
He also thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for nominating him for an ambassadorial appointment, reiterating that he would continue to do the nation proud and project Nigeria’s image in good light wherever he is posted.
The occasion featured the presentation of awards to Lt Gen TY Buratai (rtd) and books written on him by the 29th Regular Course Association, Nigerian Youth Organisation and the Reality Global FM.

Saturday 27 February 2021

Adeyanju’s Rights NGO Not Registered With Us, Says CAC




The Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, has denied the registration of Concerned Nigeria, a civil society organisation said to be owned by Frontline activist, Deji Adeyanju, Daily Independent gathered on Friday

The commission made this disclosure via correspondence to Francis Xavier Solicitors and Advocate, Abuja, who had asked to ascertain the status of the said NGO for undisclosed reasons.

In the said letter dated 18/02/2021, the CAC confirmed that Concerned Nigeria allegedly one Deji Adeyanju is an unregistered entity and was never registered with the CAC.

In response to the official missive, the legal firm said that the NGO is not a Legal Association and cannot maintain an action in Law.

“An unregistered body or association is not recognized under Nigerian law.

“It cannot enter into legally binding contracts; it cannot sue or be sued in the name of the association save where each individual member or principal officers of the association are sued or sue others in their individual capacity.

“To assume legal protection, every association must be registered under Nigerian law, ” explained Barrister Osuagwu on behalf of the firm.

He was however not forthcoming on the purpose of the search for the NGO’s legal status.

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Abuja Comes Alive As Dignitaries Walk For Sickle Cell

Founder, Valuechan Sickle Cell Foundation, Alhaji Musa Bashir Usman,

 Chairman Society for Petroleum Engineers International Abuja Chapter's 10th Anniversary organising committee, Dr Ikechukwu Okafor

Dr.Okafor Leading other dignitaries on a 'Walk for Sickle Cell' from Berger Roundabout - Jabi lake park in Abuja, as part of activities to 
commemorate the chapter's Anniversary. Photo: Bashir Bello Dollars

Friday 26 February 2021

Senator Danbaba Commends Appointment of Bawa As EFCC Boss, Says Bawa should Avoid Mistakes of Predecessors





Senator Ibrahim Abdullahi Danbaba from Sokoto North Senatorial District at the National Assembly has commended the choice of Abdulrashid Bawa as the substantive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.


The Law Maker said that initially there were apprehension and misgivings about the appointment of Bawa as the EFCC chairman by President Muhammad Buhari but by the time, Bawa gave account of himself at the floor of the Senate, he convinced everyone that he is fit for the job .


Danbaba said,

After Bawa was through speaking no one at the Hollowed doubted the capacity of the young man to head the EFCC.


When asked what advice would he give Bawa, the Senate replied 


" I would say that the appointment of this young man is in order but he should be mindful that previous chairman of the EFCC were disgraced out office.


"His immediate predecessor, Magu was not just sacked, but was also  arrested and uptill now, we don't know the real offence of Magu. In view of this, I would ask Bawa what measures would he take to avoid the humiliation that his predecessors underwent .



He should also avoid the traps that was set by the enemies of EFCC.He should also be honest .


Secondly, he should not allow himself to be used by politicians to achieve their selfish aims just like his predecessor Ibrahim Magu

Group Laud The Developmental Strides Of Hon. Zailani Speaker Kaduna State House Of Assembly



From Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani

Kaduna State stand to continue to benefit from the stewardship of Rt Hon. Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani Garkuwan Musabakar Alkur’ani as the speaker Kaduna state  House of Assembly due to his immense experience in administrative and political knowledge, especially with the way he propelled the activities of the assembly in the last one year. The assertion was contained in a statement  by Kaduna state house assembly Forum of Personal Assistance and Special Assistance made available to journalist in Kaduna, singed by Alhaji Jafaru Sambo Chief of Staff to the Speaker.

‘’ Since his inauguration as Speaker on 25 February 2020, he has successfully presided over the passing of over 19 Bills that have direct impact to the socio-economic development of the state”

They lauded the bold effort of the speaker in spearheading the formation of the Northern Speakers Forum aim at bringing the speakers closer so as to forge a common ground in articulating developmental policies that would benefit the people. He was elected the pioneer chairman of the Forum.

Hon. Zailani was instrumental to the many positive achievements of Kaduna state Governor, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai through making provision of enabling legislative backing. Hon Zailani’s one year in office have witness tremendous development, ‘‘He was the first speaker to introduce budget presentation in Hausa language for lay men and women to understand what budget means”.

Hon, Zailani’s strides in socio-economic life of the people earned him the title of Garkuwan Musabaka in Zazzau Emirate, Kaduna.

Staffs of the Kaduna state house of assembly have enjoined palliatives on different Occasions during Hon. Zailani’s one year in office.

The Forum prayed for more cooperation and stability between the executive and legislative arm of government in Kaduna, just the way it witnessed during the tenure of Hon Zailani and also wish him more success in his activities as the speaker of Kaduna house of assembly.

Kaduna United Bounces Back, Unveils New Logo


The logo of a rebranded  Kaduna United Football Club was unveiled at the Asaa Pyramid Hotels, on Friday, with several local and international stakeholders present.

The new logo, was unveiled by the Kaduna State Commissioner of Sports Development, Professor Kabiru Mato, assisted by Kaduna State FA Chairman, Honourable Sherreeff Alkassim, Chairman of the Club, Honourable Muktar Baloni, President NIgerian football coaches Association, Ladan Bosso and several other dignitaries.


In his goodwill message, Professor Mato said that the state government will give the club all the necessary support needed to excel.

Represented by the Director Sports Kaduna State, Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim, he congratulated the club chairman for the efforts of rebirthing of Kaduna United.

He said they have been going through pressures from fans all over the state over the absence of Kaduna United from the league.

He was optimistic that the  club will  do well in the league.

"They have played a lot of friendly matches and I believe they will succeed," he said.

In his remarks, Chairman of Kaduna United Football Club, Honourable Mukhtar Baloni said that the new management is made up of vibrant youth and are out to make a statement in NIgerian league.

He commended the management of the club for converting visions to physical reality.

Speaking further, he said that the club is for all Kaduna citizens and should be supported.


"We all know what is happening around us, the city is witnessing a rebirth and we decided on rebirth of the club. It is for all of us and our prayers and support are needed for it to succeed," he said

He thanked Kaduna State SWAN Chairman, Comrade Isaiah Kemje Benjamin and pledged that they will not interfere with coaches decision or favouritism, vowing that they will make recruitment process of players  impartial.

He also thanked Kaduna United supporters for their  resilience.

" We assure you this is the beginning of a successful journey.

"I stand not just as Chairman of the board, but a current vice chairman of LGA. I will reach across local councils and ensure that development of sports is accorded at the grassroots," he said.

Kaduna State FA Chairman, Honourable Alkassim Sherreeff in his remarks, said that it is  a historic day for the State, with unveiling of the new logo, with potentials of the club going higher.

"With the experienced coach and crew we have, the sky will be the limit," he added.

President NIgerian Coaches Association, Ladan Bosso in a goodwill message, said that it is his greatest moment to witness the unveiling.

"There is no club in premier league without a Kaduna groomed player.

"When Kaduna United was playing in the Premier League, I was always troubled when I have a match in Kaduna because of abundance of talents," he said.

He therefore, advised the coaches  to brace up, stressing that the sustainability of the team depends on them.


Earlier in a welcome address, Vice Chairman of Kaduna United FC, Mahmud Sanusi  said that  what has arrangements put in place so far on rebirthing of the club is commendable.

"We have been working for a while, trying to get players from around Kaduna, we invited teams from Kaduna metropolis from where we sourced players.

"It was a Herculean task to get the right players here in Kaduna.

"We are confident of the coaches managing the team, we believe we have made the right steps bringing them on board," he said.


 

An International coach  from Italy, Marcus said that logos are very important because they are the identity of clubs.

"The football team of your hometown gives you business card of your city, Kaduna United will make your city known world over," he said.

He advised the team to be focused so that they can gain promotion to the premier league.

Marcus tasked the club management on setting up  of football academies so that they can groom young players and keep them away from drug abuse and other  vices.

SWAN Chairman Isaiah Benjamin in his remarks, assured that sports writers are delighted that Kaduna  United is back on board.

He assured that SWAN will give the team maximum publicity.

He tasked coaches to choose players on merit, not based on favouritism or nepotism.

The rebranded Kaduna United is expected to feature in the amateur league.

Tuesday 23 February 2021

COCHLEAR IMPLANT: Foreign Surgeons Trained Local Surgeons to Effectively, Independently manage surgery - Dr Yaro


By From Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, Kaduna


Pursuance to total restoration of lost hearing amongst Nigerians, the National Ear Care Centre Kaduna, North-West, Nigeria, has begun cochlear implantations for total restoration of lost hearing with speech rehabilitation. The breakthrough has already been implanted for five Kaduna Patients at the hospital.
Speaking with the Medical Director National Ear Care Centre Kaduna, Dr Mustapha Abubakar Yaro revealed that foreign surgeons had earlier trained the local surgeons to effectively and independently manage cochlear implantation and will continue until complete take- over of the process from foreign surgeons.

‘’As we sustain this program, we will also submit a report to the Federal Government and the National Assembly so that it could be captured under the health insurance program .’’Yaro added.

On effectiveness of the cochlear implant, the representative of Medel an Australian based Medical Electronics company partnering National Ear Care Centre led by Dr. Mohamed El Disouky who is the Development and Regional Manager for African said ‘’ though very expensive, the process is very safe and effective as the entire restoration process comes with four programs to increase loudness every week carefully to avoid stimulation stressing that the price could reduce when more patients are involved.’’

Also, the National Ear Centre Hospital coordinator of the program Dr. Mohammed Sani revealed that after patients get the cochlear implanted, they move to the Switch on or activation process and then the speech rehabilitation proper. He maintained that, with this development, Nigerians may not have to travel overseas for total hearing restoration.

Earlier, 6years old Rufai Dikko Kabiru who lost hearing from birth had his implant which was done in December 2020 activated. Commending the National Ear Centre, the father of Rufai, Alhaji Dikko Kabiru expressed satisfaction with the process saying Government should step in to enable more participation.

CG, Hunters Ground of Nigeria Commends State commanders , Assure of speedy passage of HGN bill at NASS



By Bashir Bello Dollars 



The Commander General of Hunters Group of Nigeria, HGN, Ambassador Osatemehin Joshua has commended the officers and men of HGN for their selfless sacrifices to the organization and to the nation at large .


Ambassador Joshua who was speaking in Abuja on Saturday, February 20, 2021 specifically commended the state commanders for making HGN a household name nationwide by stamping out crimes and criminality in the various States which they operate .

The Commander General asked the state commanders not to be overly concerned about money as good name is better than wealth .


"My advice is that we should write our names in gold .

I hear complains that some state commanders charge N30,000, N20, 000 and more when our form is less , do not speak well of us .


He further charged them to be discipline and hardworking as their is getting more publicity and recognition by the Federal Government.

He also assured the state commanders that their efforts would not go unrecognized and that they would all be recompensed as well as appreciated for their works .


" I can assure that the bill to legalized HGN has passes second reading and the National Assembly has assured us that we shall soon be incorporated into the national security network of the country .


" I want to assure you that all efforts that you have put in place won't go unrewarded.

Let's put more efforts and get more publicity.


He went on to commend the efforts of the Commanders in Kaduna  and Nasarawa states for their excellence in writing the name of HGN in gold.

Northern elders dissociate selves from Gumi's position on Armed Forces of Nigeria

...say military a professional, non-partisan institution

...urge public to see military as symbol of national unity

...warn Islamic cleric against justifying banditry

...insist comments capable of endangering lives of non-Muslim soldiers

...call on authorities, Northern groups to caution Sheikh


Northern elders have dissociated themselves from recent comments credited to an Islamic cleric, Sheikh Abubakar Gumi, wherein he accused the military of triggering the raging banditry in parts of the North.

Specifically, the Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, who has constituted himself into an emissary meeting with bandits in forests across Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina and Niger states, alleged in one of such outings, that non-Muslim soldiers had carried out orchestrated killings in some communities, precipitating anger.

Leading the Secretary to Niger State government on a negotiation mission for the release of kidnapped school children of Government Science College, Kagara, Niger State, Gumi was quoted to have said, among other things, that: "What I want you people to understand is, soldiers that are involved in most of the criminalities are not Muslims. You know, soldiers have Muslims and none Muslims. The non-Muslims are the ones causing confusion just to ignite a crisis".

The cleric had made a similar wild claim on a national television programme on Tuesday morning, maintaining that the military had allegedly carried out the said campaign between 2010 and 2015.

Consequently upon this, the Northeen elders said Gumi's allegations were not a representation of the position of the region, saying the public must see same as personal sentiments of the cleric.

While urging the general public to discountenance the allegations, the patriots operating under the aegis of North East Elders for Peace and Development, vouched for the professionalism and non-partisan nature of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

In a statement by their National Coordinator, Engr. Zana Goni, the elders vowed to resist attempts by any individual or group to profile the military, which they maintained, remained the most visible symbol of national unity and cohesion.

According to them, the need for prominent groups and organisations in the North to condemn Gumi's dangerous claims had become necessary, in order not to give the impression that he was speaking for the region.

This was as they argued that by his statement, Gumi may be justifying armed banditry and all that are associated with the crime, a development, they feared, could embolden the perpetrators.

They wondered why an Islamic cleric and scholar, who had taken the initiative to discuss with bandits, will end up taking sides, as his statements suggest.

The elders expressed worries that Gumi's action may expose the lives and safety of non-Muslim soldiers to serious danger, both in the military and their operational theatres in the North.

"As Northern elders committed to a united and indivisible nation, we hasten to condemn in very strong terms the allegations made against the Nigerian military by one of our leading Islamic scholars, Sheikh Abubakar Gumi", the elders said in the statement.

It was their humble submission that those that have chosen to be peace ambassadors, must be circumspect in their approaches, adding that doing otherwise will defeat the intent and purpose of the mission.

The statement reads in full: "We rise in one voice to dissociate ourselves from the dangerous and divisive allegations levelled against our patriotic soldiers by Sheikh Gumi, in one of his missions to meet with bandits in a forest around Niger State.

"Ordinarily, we would have commended the Sheikh for daring to do what authorities failed, but for the profiling comments attributed to him, which we consider abhorrent and unhelpful to national development and peace.

"We insist that our military is one of the finest in the world, with zero-tolerance for partisanship, ethnic consideration and other unprofessional dispositions.

"We warn that comments such as this have the potential of pitting the exposed soldiers against general areas in the North, where they have continued to put down their lives to protect the territorial integrity of the nation from those that seek to violate it.

"Our concern is further hinged on the possibility of the world concluding that the North may be offering tacit endorsement to banditry and associated crimes against society.

"To douse this tension, therefore, we call on relevant authorities, including prominent individuals and groups from the North,to condemn Gumi's position in a manner that will absolve  the region of conspiracy and vicarious liability, in the long run

"In whatever position we find ourselves, we must, at all material times, endeavour to put the collective interest of Nigeria over and above all other considerations, bearing in mind the fact that when the country collapses, it will do so on all of us, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or belief.

"Lastly, we urge Gumi to stop approbating and reprobating at the same time, and to immediately call-off his mission, if he has developed  lethargy in the course of undertaking visits to deep forests.

NIPR Kaduna Chapter Induct New Members, Gets Study Centre


Mike Odeh James



 The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Kaduna State Chapter has conducted an orientation and documentation seminar for new members on Friday, 19 February 2021 in Kaduna .





The exercise was organized as another step of an Induction process of admission of new members which will provide opportunities to the new members to interact and socialize with one another  and also to allow them  understand their basic obligations, responsibilities, right and privileges as professional members of the Institute. 



The Kaduna  Chapter Chairman, Alhaji Bashir Chedi , while welcoming new members charged them to 


maintain higher professional ethics, practice and standard. 



He enjoyed them to serve as examples for the achievement of excellence in their respective organizations. 




Malam Chedi further urged the new members to see their memberships as an opportunity to add value to their work place as the institute will continue to provide avenues for their continued training and retraining on various aspects of Public Relations rather than to collect their certificate as a meal ticket and fail to actively participate in the institute professional capacity development activities.



Alhaji Bashir also warned that it would soon delist non active members as the state Chapter of the NIPR is working with the national body to that effect.



He, therefore called on all members to be active and to be alive with the responsibilities as the current leadership at both the state and national levels are more committed to ensure members receive tangible benefits and value for being members of the institute, through continuous training programs and cross vitalization of ideas and experience from tested hands in the industry both locally and internationally. 



Most of the inductees are drawn from  Air force Institute of Technology (AFIT) Kaduna.




In a related development, the Chapter , Chairman also revealed that NIPR has granted the Kaduna State Chapter to set up an accredited Study Centre .



Chedi said:



“This is a big opportunity for many Public Relations and information officers in the north who are practicing without the necessary qualifications and approval of the institute and also for the teeming northern youths  who wish to become professional in the area of Public Relations.





"I call on them  to use this golden opportunity of the Study Centre in Kaduna and acquire NIPR Professional Certificate and Diploma which will qualify them for NIPR Membership and a direct admission to the University , he added .

Breaking: Senate confirms Buratai, other ex-Service Chiefs as Ambassadors-designate




General Abayomi Olonisakin; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar and former Chief of Defence Intelligence, Air Vice Marshall Muhammad Usman.

The confirmation followed the consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs chaired by Senator Adamu Mohammad Bulkachuwa.

 
Also on Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari urged the Senate to consider and confirm Haliru Nababa for appointment as the Controller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).

Senate President Ahmad Lawan read Buhari’s letter of request on the floor at plenary.

Sunday 21 February 2021

Enhance PEFMB Functions As Fund Manager For GEP, IPMAN Tells FG

No Comprise on The Existence of PEFMB.
Appoint PEFMB As Fund Manager For GAS Expansion Program - IPMAN to FG

By Mike Odeh James


The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN has made a strong case for inclusion of the Petroleum Equalization Management Fund Board, PEFMB to be the Fund Managers for the Proposed Gas Expansion Program.

In a joint  statement signed by Elder Chinedu Okoronkwwo and Alhaji Danladi Pasali, IPMAN said also commended the efforts of the Ahmed Bobboi led PEFMB for its role in funding the Gas Expansion Program in collaboration with IPMAN members .

According to the statement which was released last week,


"IPMAN resolved unequivocally to support the Petroleum Equalization Fund Management Board (PEFMB) efforts to collaborate with our members in funding the Gas Expansion Programme. 

The management of IPMAN also insist on PEMFB as been the Manager of the Gas Expansion Program in the Petroleum Industry when the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB comes to fruition .

Furthermore, it advised that the capacity of the PEMFB be robustly enhanced in order for it to discharge its functions effectively. 

IPMAN further added that in order to maintain the constant affordability and petroleum products, the existence of PEMB must be protected. 
The statement therefore warned that IPMB won't compromise on PEFMB existence.

"Also, the PIB must enhance the capacity of the PEFMB acclaimed fund Managers of the Industry to implement the proposed Gas Expansion Programmes to ensure affordability and availability of products.

 "The IPMAN will not compromise on the existence of the PEFMB because of its importance to the economic development of the country in matters of price stability", the statement added.



Abridged Statement From IPMAN



 

Resolution  of the meeting of the ipman central working committee (cwc) held at the porto golf hotels, kano state on the 12th and 13th February, 2021



Following two days of exhaustive deliberations  the Board of Trustees (BOT) and the Central Working Committee (CWC) on critical issues relating to the operation of the  Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) in the downstreams sector and its collaboration with Stakeholders, the following were agreed to an adopted.


IPMAN has commended the Directors of DRP, NNPC and PEF  espectively  for sending senior officers to represent them at our Central Working Committee meeting held in Kano.


IPMAN is in full support of the proposed full deregulation of the downstream sector of the Nigeria economy. However, necessary palliatives should be put in place to alleviate the impact on the populace as reformed by the PEF. 


3A. IPMAN supports the Federal Government’s policy on the National Gas Expansion Programmes (NGEP) which will deepen the use of both liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Auto Gas Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)


3B. IPMAN is in support of the quick passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) by the National Assembly with the inclusion of IPMAN representatives on the Board of all relevant  Agencies to protect the interest of members and the public as it is today on the board of PPPRA.


4. IPMAN resolved unequivocally to support the Petroleum Equalization Fund Management Board (PEFMB) efforts to collaborate with our members in funding the Gas Expansion Programme. Also, the PIB must enhance the capacity of the PETMB as acclaimed fund Managers of the Industry to implement the proposed Gas Expansion 


Programmes to ensure affordability and availability of products. The IPMAN will not compromise on the existence of the PEFMB because of its importance to the economic development of the country in matters of price stability.

5. IPMAN appreciates the readiness of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation(NNPC) to supply Gas to IPMAN members directly and continuous supply of petroleum products using the latest technology and ensuring best practices in its operations.


6. IPMAN is in total support of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DRP) as it relates to be Downstream 

Remote Monitoring System (DRMS) especially as it recognized Nigeria Legal Diversion of Petroleum Product (NLDPP) within licensed IPMAN members and stop all Illegal Diversions.

7. DRP is requested to support IPMAN with Marginal Oil Field/DSDP directly to enable her construct modular Refineries.

8. The CWC is composed of the National Executive Committee, Zonal  and Depot Chairmen/Secretaries of IPMAN from all Depots in Nigeria.

Appoint PEFMB As Fund Manager For GAS Expansion Program - IPMAN to FG

No Comprise on The Existence of PEFMB.
Appoint PEFMB As Fund Manager For GAS Expansion Program - IPMAN to FG

By Mike Odeh James


The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN has made a strong case for inclusion of the Petroleum Equalization Management Fund Board, PEFMB to be the Fund Managers for the Proposed Gas Expansion Program.

In a joint  statement signed by Elder Chinedu Okoronkwwo and Alhaji Danladi Pasali, IPMAN said also commended the efforts of the Ahmed Bobboi led PEFMB for its role in funding the Gas Expansion Program in collaboration with IPMAN members .

According to the statement which was released last week,


"IPMAN resolved unequivocally to support the Petroleum Equalization Fund Management Board (PEFMB) efforts to collaborate with our members in funding the Gas Expansion Programme. 

The management of IPMAN also insist on PEMFB as been the Manager of the Gas Expansion Program in the Petroleum Industry when the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB comes to fruition .

Furthermore, it advised that the capacity of the PEMFB be robustly enhanced in order for it to discharge its functions effectively. 

IPMAN further added that in order to maintain the constant affordability and petroleum products, the existence of PEMB must be protected. 
The statement therefore warned that IPMB won't compromise on PEFMB existence.

"Also, the PIB must enhance the capacity of the PEFMB acclaimed fund Managers of the Industry to implement the proposed Gas Expansion Programmes to ensure affordability and availability of products.

 "The IPMAN will not compromise on the existence of the PEFMB because of its importance to the economic development of the country in matters of price stability", the statement added.



Abridged Statement From IPMAN



 

Resolution  of the meeting of the ipman central working committee (cwc) held at the porto golf hotels, kano state on the 12th and 13th February, 2021



Following two days of exhaustive deliberations  the Board of Trustees (BOT) and the Central Working Committee (CWC) on critical issues relating to the operation of the  Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) in the downstreams sector and its collaboration with Stakeholders, the following were agreed to an adopted.


IPMAN has commended the Directors of DRP, NNPC and PEF  espectively  for sending senior officers to represent them at our Central Working Committee meeting held in Kano.


IPMAN is in full support of the proposed full deregulation of the downstream sector of the Nigeria economy. However, necessary palliatives should be put in place to alleviate the impact on the populace as reformed by the PEF. 


3A. IPMAN supports the Federal Government’s policy on the National Gas Expansion Programmes (NGEP) which will deepen the use of both liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Auto Gas Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)


3B. IPMAN is in support of the quick passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) by the National Assembly with the inclusion of IPMAN representatives on the Board of all relevant  Agencies to protect the interest of members and the public as it is today on the board of PPPRA.


4. IPMAN resolved unequivocally to support the Petroleum Equalization Fund Management Board (PEFMB) efforts to collaborate with our members in funding the Gas Expansion Programme. Also, the PIB must enhance the capacity of the PETMB as acclaimed fund Managers of the Industry to implement the proposed Gas Expansion 


Programmes to ensure affordability and availability of products. The IPMAN will not compromise on the existence of the PEFMB because of its importance to the economic development of the country in matters of price stability.

5. IPMAN appreciates the readiness of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation(NNPC) to supply Gas to IPMAN members directly and continuous supply of petroleum products using the latest technology and ensuring best practices in its operations.


6. IPMAN is in total support of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DRP) as it relates to be Downstream 

Remote Monitoring System (DRMS) especially as it recognized Nigeria Legal Diversion of Petroleum Product (NLDPP) within licensed IPMAN members and stop all Illegal Diversions.

7. DRP is requested to support IPMAN with Marginal Oil Field/DSDP directly to enable her construct modular Refineries.

8. The CWC is composed of the National Executive Committee, Zonal  and Depot Chairmen/Secretaries of IPMAN from all Depots in Nigeria.


National President: Elder Chinedu Okoronkwo……………………………

National Secretary: Alh. Danladi Pasali

RESOLUTION PASSED BY IPMAN




The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN National Working Commitee held on the 12th and 13 of February where wide ranging issues were discussed and a resolution passed to that effect 

 

Resolution  of the meeting of the ipman central working committee (cwc) held at the porto golf hotels, kano state on the 12th and 13th February, 2021



Following two days of exhaustive deliberations  the Board of Trustees (BOT) and the Central Working Committee (CWC) on critical issues relating to the operation of the  Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) in the downstreams sector and its collaboration with Stakeholders, the following were agreed to an adopted.


IPMAN has commended the Directors of DRP, NNPC and PEF  espectively  for sending senior officers to represent them at our Central Working Committee meeting held in Kano.


IPMAN is in full support of the proposed full deregulation of the downstream sector of the Nigeria economy. However, necessary palliatives should be put in place to alleviate the impact on the populace as reformed by the PEF. 


3A. IPMAN supports the Federal Government’s policy on the National Gas Expansion Programmes (NGEP) which will deepen the use of both liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Auto Gas Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)


3B. IPMAN is in support of the quick passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) by the National Assembly with the inclusion of IPMAN representatives on the Board of all relevant  Agencies to protect the interest of members and the public as it is today on the board of PPPRA.


4. IPMAN resolved unequivocally to support the Petroleum Equalization Fund Management Board (PEFMB) efforts to collaborate with our members in funding the Gas Expansion Programme. Also, the PIB must enhance the capacity of the PETMB as acclaimed fund Managers of the Industry to implement the proposed Gas Expansion 


Programmes to ensure affordability and availability of products. The IPMAN will not compromise on the existence of the PEFMB because of its importance to the economic development of the country in matters of price stability.

5. IPMAN appreciates the readiness of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation(NNPC) to supply Gas to IPMAN members directly and continuous supply of petroleum products using the latest technology and ensuring best practices in its operations.


6. IPMAN is in total support of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DRP) as it relates to be Downstream 

Remote Monitoring System (DRMS) especially as it recognized Nigeria Legal Diversion of Petroleum Product (NLDPP) within licensed IPMAN members and stop all Illegal Diversions.

7. DRP is requested to support IPMAN with Marginal Oil Field/DSDP directly to enable her construct modular Refineries.

8. The CWC is composed of the National Executive Committee, Zonal  and Depot Chairmen/Secretaries of IPMAN from all Depots in Nigeria.


National President: Elder Chinedu Okoronkwo……………………………

National Secretary: Alh. Danladi 



The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN National Working Commitee held on the 12th and 13 of February where wide ranging issues were discussed and a resolution passed to that effect 

 

Resolution  of the meeting of the ipman central working committee (cwc) held at the porto golf hotels, kano state on the 12th and 13th February, 2021



Following two days of exhaustive deliberations  the Board of Trustees (BOT) and the Central Working Committee (CWC) on critical issues relating to the operation of the  Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) in the downstreams sector and its collaboration with Stakeholders, the following were agreed to an adopted.


IPMAN has commended the Directors of DRP, NNPC and PEF  espectively  for sending senior officers to represent them at our Central Working Committee meeting held in Kano.


IPMAN is in full support of the proposed full deregulation of the downstream sector of the Nigeria economy. However, necessary palliatives should be put in place to alleviate the impact on the populace as reformed by the PEF. 


3A. IPMAN supports the Federal Government’s policy on the National Gas Expansion Programmes (NGEP) which will deepen the use of both liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Auto Gas Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)


3B. IPMAN is in support of the quick passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) by the National Assembly with the inclusion of IPMAN representatives on the Board of all relevant  Agencies to protect the interest of members and the public as it is today on the board of PPPRA.


4. IPMAN resolved unequivocally to support the Petroleum Equalization Fund Management Board (PEFMB) efforts to collaborate with our members in funding the Gas Expansion Programme. Also, the PIB must enhance the capacity of the PETMB as acclaimed fund Managers of the Industry to implement the proposed Gas Expansion 


Programmes to ensure affordability and availability of products. The IPMAN will not compromise on the existence of the PEFMB because of its importance to the economic development of the country in matters of price stability.

5. IPMAN appreciates the readiness of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation(NNPC) to supply Gas to IPMAN members directly and continuous supply of petroleum products using the latest technology and ensuring best practices in its operations.


6. IPMAN is in total support of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DRP) as it relates to be Downstream 

Remote Monitoring System (DRMS) especially as it recognized Nigeria Legal Diversion of Petroleum Product (NLDPP) within licensed IPMAN members and stop all Illegal Diversions.

7. DRP is requested to support IPMAN with Marginal Oil Field/DSDP directly to enable her construct modular Refineries.

8. The CWC is composed of the National Executive Committee, Zonal  and Depot Chairmen/Secretaries of IPMAN from all Depots in Nigeria.


National President: Elder Chinedu Okoronkwo……………………………

National Secretary: Alh. Danladi 

Wednesday 17 February 2021

Global peace group raises alarm of invasion of country by foreign militia herders


...says another civil war looms unless...

...worries over their bestial nature of invaders

...says agenda to kill, rape,loot, create fear

...calls on local security outfit to work with military, security agencies

...appeals for ethnic groups, organizations to close ranks 

...insists the Invaders exploiting country's fault lines


A civil society group with focus on global peace, security and public safety, has raised the alarm of possible invasion of parts of the country by suspected foreign militia herders, who have continued to kill, kidnap, rape, maim and carry out other forms of bestial activities.

The group's alarm came on the heels of trending video of abducted passengers of Niger State Transport Authority,NSTA,where their abductors believed to be foreign Fulani militia displayed modern sophiscated arms around their victims.

Concerned over the high rate of the crimes across the country specifically attributed to the Fulani herders which has caused ethnic tensions, the coalition, which operates under the identity of Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative (GOPLRI),feared that another civil war may be looming except something urgent was done by both authorities and stakeholders to stop the trend.

Recalling that the Governor of Kaduna State,Mallam Nasir el-Rufai had on Monday, expressed fears over the bold attitude of perpetrators of crimes to confront troops and other trained security personnel,the group said the video of the bandits seen with the abducted bandits depicted a country which it noted,was being run by foreign invaders.

"Civil war is looming in the country if nothing is done urgently. Nigerians must stop the blame game, irrespective of ethnic, political, and religious  differences and solve this problem at once,"it said.


According to the group, the depraved nature of the armed militia herders gives an indication that they are not indigenous Fulani, who are known to have lived peacefully for ages with their host communities across the country.

They maintained that the foreign invaders have an agenda to loot, while instilling fear in their victims, with a view to actualising their objective.

While wondering where they derived the boldness and audacity to attack soldiers and other security operatives on patrol, ambush and other operations, the coalition called for vigilance, which it noted, is the price for freedom.

 It called on regional security outfits to bury the thought of defeating these terrorists alone, saying they must work in close synergy with the military and other security agencies, to achieve the collective aim.

This was as it added that, as part of holistic measures to contain the rapacious activities of the violent herders, regional blocks, individuals and groups must bury their differences and close ranks, in recognition of the fact that what is happening is an attack on our collective being, and not on any particular ethnic group.

In a statement, Wednesday, by its Executive Director, Amb. Melvin Ejeh, the global peace group charged both federal and state governments to pay more attention to the potential threat posed by these militiamen, saying the development had the potential of hurting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the nation.

The peace advocates regretted that the foreign herders were allowed freedom of action to carry out their blood-letting campaign in a country regarded as the "giant of Africa", whereas smaller countries in the sub-region have been able to successfully ward them off, thereby guaranteeing their peoples security and public safety.

It was their contention that all hands must be on deck, to confront the extremist elements, who seek to divide us by promoting and projecting our ethnic and other differences.

"At no time in recent history has the need to close ethnic, religious, political and ideological differences, been as immediate and urgent as now", the group said in the statement.

They urged the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and sister security agencies to review their intelligence and operational mechanisms, in order to save the country from external attacks.

The statement reads: "We are alarmed by the level of attacks carried out on innocent citizens by extremists whom, investigations have revealed, are foreign herders, who have continued to take advantage of our porous borders to invade the country from all fronts.

"We insist that that only savage beings, who have no blood, linguistic, traditional and other connections with their victims, can carry out such heinous and vicious attacks on innocent people like these Invaders do.

"Otherwise, why would they kill in such bestial manner, rape women recklessly, destroy means of livelihoods, and instill fear in the hearts of innocent citizens of the country?

"To defeat these monsters, and reclaim our public space and sanity, we propose the following antidotes;

"All regional security outfits operating under whatever name, must endeavour to work closely with the military and other security organisations, knowing that one hand cannot tie a parcel;

"The military, police, immigration, customs, civil defence and other relevant law enforcement agencies must, for the sake of Nigeria, share intelligence and operational strategies, knowing full well that they are up against a common enemy. 

"Ethnic, religious, cultural groups, as well as individuals must remember that there must be a country first, before such tendencies can blossom, and so hasten to suspend the fault lines, which are apparently being exploited to nurture and sustain the wicked agenda;

"Desist forthwith from profiling ethnic groups and tribes, knowing that criminal elements exist among all races; they are good and bad people in all human habitations;

"Both national and sub-national governments must intensify efforts at taming the growing ethnic tension across the country, as nations hardly win two-pronged battles".

It said:"While the bulk stops on the desk of Mr President to address the security challenges using state apparatus and resources, all hands must be on board to solve the problem."

According to GOPRI, "Every region must begin to engage its stakeholders and key youth actors to deescalate the tension."

 "These criminals herdsmen obviously from other  countries with collaborators and accomplices from Nigeria are on an agenda to set us up against one another and put us to war, this evil agenda we must all resist.  We must stand as one in this country to defeat this evil trend. 

"Mr President must issue a clear directives  to the new service chiefs and other security heads  to move into all the forest and our major highway to flush out these criminal herdsmen before it’s late,"it said.     

GOPRI said,"Technology must be deployed now as it is obviously that these people  are not the normal Fulani herders that we know",adding:"They are foreign militia Fulani men invading our country."

According to it,"They are brutal and have no consideration for anyone; they are after their loot. They kill, rape and rob people at will; whether Hausa, fulani, Yoruba, igbos or any other person.They have freedom of action in most parts of our country. They must be stopped now."

"The regional security outfits alone cannot defeat them easily. They need to work closely with the military and security agencies 

"We need to close ranks as a nation and make concerted efforts as a nation to stop these invaders before they destroy Nigeria. 

"It’s not about any ethnic group but an invasion of our country The earlier we realize it and stop them the better before our country turns to a failed state,"GOPRI further said.

The group noted that"As long as we remain divided, they will continue to perpetuate their crime with brutality."

"These same Fulani militia groups cannot operate freely in other smaller countries in the sub region but find it easy to carry out their nefarious activities in Nigeria because they exploit our ethnic fault lines. 

"The President needs to be told the truth; the situation is getting out of hand.  enough of the sycophants that cover up serious issues to the detriment of the peace and unity of Nigeria. 

"We really need our Armed Forces and security agencies to show more commitment in carrying out their duties. They should be able to do a lot more. Let the truth be told,"it said.

"We better act fast and decisively before we are all consumed,"it warned.

Leaked Memo Reveals Underground Movement, Atiku For NIgeria Strategizing Ahead of 2023


In its renewed quest at actualizing an Atiku Abubakar Presidency in 2023, a new group which is already mopping up over twenty million members worldwide is being formed underground and will be unveiled soon.

Our correspondent reliably gathered through a leaked memo to former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar that the group, Atiku For NIgeria formation has reached advanced stages with its national and regional, states and local government structures already constituted.

The leaked memo informed that the Atiku For NIgeria solely for political projecting of the former Vice President.

According to the memo, Atiku for Nigeria will be under the leadership of  a grassroots politician from the South East, Barrister Sunday Umeha who is tipped to serve as it's Director General 

A serving commissioner in Zamfara State, Honourable Lawal Zannah is tipped to serve as the Deputy Director General, while Hon. Oludare Olatunde  is being positioned to serve as Assistant Director General.

Speaking to our Correspodent, the source who begged not to be mentioned, said that they are backing the Atiku For Nigeria movement because of their believe that the former Vice President has what it takes to positively change the fortunes of NIgeria.

"Our Dear Nation, Nigeria, is at a very defining moment; people of conscience volunteer their passion, skills, and experience towards adding values to improve the quality of leadership and grooming future ones.

"The task to legitimately pilot the affairs of our Nation for a better tomorrow that guarantees good governance and freedom for all must start now by identifying genuine patriots capable of achieving such desired goal.

"It is in conformity with the aforementioned that we have identified special groups cut across the six Geo political zones that are prepared and ready to take their destiny in their hands via proper channel and application of wisdom, hardwork and dedication," the source revealed.

It was further gathered that the aims of the movement include to brand, project, promote and entrench the personality, political ideology and philanthropic gestures of H E Atiku Abubakar GCON down to every nooks and crannies of Nigeria.

"To convert the popularity of our principal H E Atiku Abubakar to a voting capacity with a minimum of generating 20 million voters by 2023.

"To raise the political credentials of H E Atiku Abubakar by reconfiguring his public image as the only person competent to rule Nigeria as her President come 2023.

"To make H E Atiku Abubakar the bridge between the predecessing and successing generations," the source said.


Some of the strategies they intend using  include holding programmes to buffer the spirit of the Nigerian electorates and confidence on H E Atiku Abubakar GCON.

"To embark on a rigorous drive of committed membership with a target of raising not less than 20 million committed apostles come 2023.

"To sieze every opportunity to make visible the ills of the government in power using pseudo groups so as to break their popularity.

"Raise a generation of Nigerians who will not only cast but defend their mandate come 2023," our correspondent gathered from the leaked memo.

Sunday 7 February 2021

Inter-Secondary School Sports Commences Soon , Sunday Dare

Intersecondary Schools Sports Minister Soccer Competition Will Kick Off Soon, Dare Assures

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday has assured that the Sports Minister Intersecondary School Cup which his ministry is planning will soon kick off.

He gave the assurance while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the  Engineer Musa Nimrod North West U-17 Beach Volleyball Competition which ended at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna on Saturday.

Represented by the Director Grassroots Sports Development of the ministry, Dr. Are Ademola Are, he explained that schools from all the zones in the country would feature.

"The Minister has assured that we will commence Ministers Cup soon and Kaduna will feature in the opening match billed for Lagos where they will play Igbobi College," he said.

On the Nimrod U-17 Beach Volleyball competition, he described it as very impressive.

"The competition is impressive because the minister has been preaching that we should go back to grassroots sports development," he said.

He commended the NVBF President for being consistent in sponsorship of sporting events in North West and NIgeria.

Speaking further, he said that the North West is the most vibrant zone in Nigeria. 

"To me, Kaduna is a mini Nigeria. We have strings of talents in Kaduna State," he said. 

On behalf of the Minister,  he thanked   all for attending the Beach Volleyball final, while calling on them to  keep supporting youth activities that will keep them off vices.

Niger Republique Rerun, Bazoum Storms Daura, Says I will Help Fight Insecurity In Nigeria If Elected



• Bazoum Promises to help Nigeria in fight against terrorist

• Let's Support Bazoum, Hajia Nusaiba appeals to Nigeriens

By Bello Bashir Dollars 

The Nigerien Presidential candidate in the Presidential Rerun Election , visited President Buhari to solicit for his support and endorsement in the forthcoming election in his country. 

Alhaji Mohamed Bazoum who is campaigning under the platform of PNDS Tarayya Party last week flew into Daura to confer with President Buhari.

Among issues discussed were the influx of criminal elements from Niger to Nigeria and vice versa 

They also discussed the issue of insecurity bedeviling Nigeria with Bazoum to support President Buhari's fight against insecurity if he is elected as President of Niger Republique.

The Presidential hopeful also visited the Governor of Kano, Abdullahi Ganduje, the Governor of Jigawa Muhammad Badaru and the Emir of Kano and held meaninful discussions with them before flying back to Niamey , the capital of Niger.



According to the Chairperson, BAZOUM supporter's campaign in Nigeria 2021, Bazoum assured President Buhari that if he wins the 2021 rerun  in Niger Republique, he would ensue all the security apparatuses of Niger Republique will fully cooperate with its Nigerian counterparts to fight the insecurity challenges bedeviling Nigeria .


  According to Hajia Nusaiba Zubairu, Alhaji Bazoum had to first visit Nigeria since the country is considered a big brother and friendly but influential neighbor to Niger Republique.


Nusaiba said,

"Nigeria is the senior brother of Niger Republique and so, Bazoum came to see the President so that we can have peaceful elections in our country .

"Apart from that, Alhaji Bazoum had assured them that if he becomes the President, Niger would fully deploy all its assets to curb the influx of criminal elements into Nigeria from Niger .

" And it also help the Nigerian Government in its fight against terrorism ", she added.

Hajia Nusaiba who is a prominent figure among Nigeriens  living in Nigeria,called on the citizens of Niger Republique to rally round the candidacy of Mohamed Bazoum to ensue that he wins the 2021 Presidential election.

Saturday 6 February 2021

APC AWARENESS PROJECT CHIKUN HIGHLIGHTS SUCCESS ON THE ONGOING REGISTRATION

A group attached to the All Progressive Congress, The APC AWARENESS Project, Chikun Chapter on Kaduna State  has assured all stakeholders in the APC that the group is ready to embarked on massive grassroot mobilization as directed by by the APC National Working Commitee.

In a press statement released by its Media and Publicity Director, Comrade Cyprian C Goni, the group revealed that the ongoing registration in which commenced in Sabon Gari  and Nasarawa ( Nasarawa Ward)  last month was a huge success as it recorded a huge turn out .

The statement also revealed that it has met all the requirements set by the NWC and the State APC.


" we are up-to-date on the needful, to be put in place for the awareness and preparedness in making sure that the agenda of the APC national working Committee executivs directives, as well as the state, local government and wards on the guide lines of the on-going registration. 

The APC Awareness Project further stated its intention  of exceeding the three persons per Polling Units demanded by the NWC

"Which we want to ensure is achieved in our dear local government and the Kaduna state at large, most especially the three persons from each pulling units of all the Ward's in the local government areas of kaduna central senatorial district and the state at large.

APC Awareness group has Hon. Alhaji Musa Mubama as the Founder, Hon. Alhaji Murtala Lulwan Muktar as the leader of Chikun APC Awareness Project and Hon.Christopher

Female Genital Mutilation: Right Abuse, Inhuman, Gender-based Violence - CAMAC




...to launch Media Campaign on Zero Tolerance for FGM


Center for Media Advocacy for Mother and Child (CAMAC) on Saturday described Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), as abuse on the right of women, inhuman and violence against women and girls.

Executive Director of CAMAC, Alex Uangbaoje in a statement to commemorate the the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, said despite global campaigns to end the act, several countries, especially in Africa including Nigeria are still practicing it.

According to Him, United Nations in 2019 revealed that "at least 200 million girls and women alive today have had their genitals mutilated, suffering one of the most inhuman acts of gender-based violence in the world."

Alex, noted that this inhuman act has deprived millions of women their right to enjoy sexual intercourse which to the destruction of so marriages.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The Female genital cutting is mostly carried out on young girls between infancy and age fifteen.

"Nigeria and Nigerians must join the campaign to end this barbaric act. FGM has no positive impact on the life of girls and women, rather it takes away their God given right and inflict everlasting pains that no medical therapy can correct.

"Even though the Nigerian Government in 2015, enacted a law banning FGM, the act is still being practiced in some parts of the country. It is time Nigeria enforces the law to the letter by putting strong measures in place." He said.

He expressed worries over UNICEF, joint statement with UNFPA to mark the 2021 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, that "2 million additional cases of female genital mutilation may occur over the next decade as COVID-19 shutters schools and disrupts programmes that help protect girls from this harmful practice."

A situation he said, everyone need to fight against to avoid it and achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 2030 target to eliminate it.

He disclosed that as a media advocacy group, CAMAC, has concluded an arrangement to launch a media campaign on Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation as part of her work plan for 2021.

Alex said some Nigerians told CAMAC that the effects of FGM is one that no one would wish their enemy because it takes away the joy of marriage from women and their spouses.

He qouted Mr. Nwabueze, as saying "if not because i love my wife i would have divorced her by now due to the fact that our sexual experience as a couple has been affected because her being a of FGM.

"60% and above of married men from Igbo extraction  cheat on their women because of how FGM has affected their relationship as husband and wife."

According to UNICEF and UNFPA, “The same interventions that will end female genital mutilation will also support the power and agency of girls and women to exercise their human rights, reach their potential and contribute fully to their communities and futures.  The elimination of female genital mutilation and gender equality are interdependent, mutually reinforcing goals. Simply put, if gender equality were a reality, there would be no female genital mutilation. This is the world we envision, and the Sustainable Development Goals chart the path to get us there."

CAMAC is a media advocacy group that focus on advocating for policies and programmes that favour vulnerable women, adolescent girls and children in areas of education, health, child’s rights, protection, development and survival, while also drawing the attention of government and other stakeholders to their plight, with the view to finding lasting solutions to their problem. As well as creating awareness and sensitizing the public on the above areas.

Why the Kano state govt must change its stance on Sheikh Abduljabbar



By Abdulmumin Giwa

It is pertinent in the current heat that has overtaken the air following the clampdown on Sheikh Abduljabbar Nasiru Kabara, a renown scholar in Kano, by Muslim scholars backed by the state government, to draw the attention of all to a sentimentally neglected fact. 

Sheikh Abduljabbar was condemned and threatened by other scholars for reviewing some irreconcilable issues in both the history of Islam and the tradition of the Prophet of Islam Muhammad (SAWA) for which subsequently the state government joined the merger of scholars from different sects to ban Sheikh Abdulhabbar from his activities in the state.

The scholars and the Kano state government have all accused him of insulting the Prophet of Islam and his companions without allowing him any chance to defend himself and without producing the exact speeches in which he insulted them. He was banned from preaching in the state and had all his seminaries closed down by the state government.

On the other hand, Sheikh Abduljabbar has denied the accusations in several video clips that have gone viral on the social media including those produced by news sources like the BBC. He insists that he is only debunking some sayings found in the Sunni Muslim books that not only contradict but are also irreconcilable with the religion, reason and logic that are wrongly attributed to the prophet of Islam.

Going by his stance, and to be fair to him, the scholars and the government are not supposed to have attacked him but challenge his stance with proofs and evidences from scholastic point of view.

Just of recent the Kano state government has been in a case with one Mubarak Bala, the head of the Humanist Society of Nigeria who is still in detention for blasphemy against the Prophet of Islam. He is from an Islamic background and exposed to the traits of the 21st century, he chooses atheism. This trend of converting young men and women in the tertiary institutions especially, has become an in thing.

In some of the arguments by those who opt for atheism to justify their actions, they refer to the same irreconcilable traditions Abduljabbar is debunking contained in Muslim books to ridicule Islam and the Prophet of Islam.

Amongst these  atheist in Kano are even the children of renown Muslim scholars. They are exposed to modernity and have had access to the contradictions and use them as evidence against Islam. 

More so, if we are to go back a little, people like Salman Rushdie did the same thing. He used the same traditions he found in the Muslim books to write his book, The Satanic Verses where he ridiculed Islam and the Prophet. 

There are several cases in Europe and America where people driven by the phobia against the religion of Islam use the same traditions they see in Muslim books to ridicule and insult the faith. 

Technology has made it such that youths in Nigeria have access to these ideas and are inclining to them in the name of running away from what they see as dogmatism and conservatism which has also founded feudalism in the religion, especially by the leaders in the region. 

Religious feudalism and conservatism has not benefited the adherents of the religion, at least not in the 21st century. It is more like a silent killer within the religion.

Today more and more young and promising lads exposed to the traits of the century are opting for atheism and describing religion as a dogma because of the way it is presented. Go to our higher institutions and see how our young men and women, including children/wards of renown scholars are becoming atheists all because of what is said of the religion that doesn't tally with logic and reason.

Now, if this issue of revising the literatures of the religion to put things straight is denied and antagonised, will it then not be an encouragement for atheism to grow and find a breathing space amidst the rich religious society? What then will be the repercussion of that?

As mentioned, we have seen many cases of people insulting Islam and presenting it in the most immoral manner quoting from Muslim books to justify their claims. The said atheists are doing the same. 
Is it for the scholars to face the reality, living in an age where all their libraries are contained on a chip in a mobile phone, and relieve the religion of alterations, or is it for them to fight against whosoever attempts such? What then is their function as scholars?

The scholars and the Kano government must have a review of their stance against Sheikh Abduljabbar to not only be fair and just to him, but to also save the religion of Islam from ridicule and mockery by its antagonists as well as loosing their  young generation to atheism.

Tuesday 2 February 2021

el-Rufai Unveils Professional Team, Seat Of God Football Club




The Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai has unveiled a new professional football club, Seat of God Football Club (SOG FC) in Kaduna, with an assurance that his administration will create an enabling environment for those investing in sports.


The Governor, represented by Director Sports Kaduna State, Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim performed the ceremonial unveiling of the team at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, with several dignitaries in attendance.

"Kaduna State Government is creating an enabling environment for sports investment in the state. we hope that by next year we will have three or more league clubs in the state," he said.

The Governor said that he was   optimistic that by next year, the team will be playing in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

"We assure you that the Kaduna State Government will support this club.

"The Government' of Kaduna State is ready and calling on individuals to partner with it," he said.

Speaking further, he described the President of SOG FC, His Lordship, Bishop Tinuouye Ademola as a worthy investor.


" I want to say that the President of the SOG FC is a worthy investor, I want to congratulate him.

"It is not that he has billions of Naira before doing this, but he has made up his mind to sacrifice," he said.

He therefore, called  on all to support him so that he can succeed.

"With this, it is my honour to unveil the jerseys and flag of this club and the team," he declared.

Atiku Felicitates With Abass On His Birthday

Atiku Rejoices with Abbas on Birthday

...cautions youths against immediate gratification

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has counselled Nigerian youths to place priority on investing in the future against seeking immediate monetary reward.

In a message marking the birthday of his Special Assistant, Youths and Support Groups, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas, the Wazirin Adamawa congratulated the celebrant and urged him to continue being the voice of the youths and their advocate.

He however cautioned that his fight for the youths is targeted at freeing them from the shackles of poverty, illiteracy and other limitations, hence the need to endure for the sake of the future.

"We are fighting for the future of our youths. It is not about what they can get in monetary terms," the former Vice President said.

Atiku thanked God for blessing Aliyu with good health and contentment while encouraging him to keep deepening leadership and courage in the task to free Nigerian youths from negative impacts of bad governance.