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Insecurity: Matawalle’s experience as ex Zamfara gov. needed in defence ministry – Group

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LAGOS – An NGO, ‘The Egalitarian Africa’,  says the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, is fit for the position.

 

The group, in a statement by its General Secretary, Sunday Akogun, on Tuesday in Lagos, urged President Bola Tinubu to ignore allegations against the minister.

 

The group’s reaction was in response to the resignation of the erstwhile Defence Minister, Mohammed Badru, and calls in some quarters for Matawalle to also resign.

 

It stated that Badiru’s resignation should not mean that the minister of state must also resign.

 

The group maintained: “Those calling for Matawalle’s resignation are doing so for selfish reasons.

 

“As a former Governor of Zanfara, Matawalle has an edge in knowledge of how to combat banditry.

 

”Matawalles’s experiences as a governor in a state like Zanfara will be brought to bear in tackling insecurity.

 

“In battling issues of banditry and other crimes, experience is needed. Not just experience as a security personnel but firsthand as a governor who had dealt with issues of banditry and terrorism.”

 

The group pointed out that in dealing with appointments on sensitive matters, the Federal Government must remain firm and stand by its convictions about those it appointed.”

 

According to the group, most appointment in Nigeria are trailed by controversies.

 

“However, the people must have their say but the government should not be swayed by sentiments engineered by a few people for selfish interests.

 

“Someone must have gone to great lengths and probably paid so much to bring out a video just for the purpose of ensuring the minister is removed,” it said.

 

The group said there the need for Nigerians to close ranks and support the Federal Government and its appointees to fight the recurring challenges of insecurity nationwide.

 

“This is not about title or who gets it. It is about our nation against criminals.

“It is a wake up call to all well meaning Nigerians to support the fight and not to pull people down without asking the necessary questions,” the group added.

 

It, however, urged the minister to remain focused and to ignore distractions that may affect his performance.  (NAN)

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Yuletide: Enugu CP reaffirms ban on fireworks, bush burning

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ENUGU –  The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr Mamman Giwa, has reaffirmed the ban on sale and unauthorised use of fireworks, commonly called “knockouts” or “bangers”, across the state during the yuletide.

The commissioner said this in a statement issued by command spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, on Tuesday in Enugu.

Giwa said the measure was aimed at preventing criminals from exploiting fireworks, minimising public panic and safeguarding lives and property.

“Individuals and businesses involved in the sale or use of fireworks are urged to desist immediately, as violators will face the full weight of the law.

“Parents and guardians are also advised to caution their children and wards against purchasing or using fireworks,” he said.

The commissioner also cautioned against bush burning during this harmattan season, adding that such acts pose serious risks of fire outbreaks capable of endangering lives, destroying property and disrupting community life.

According to him, offenders will be duly prosecuted.

He urged residents  to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperate with the police to ensure a safe and peaceful festive season.

“Suspicious persons and criminal activities should be reported to the nearest police station or to the Command via 08032003702 or 08086671202; and the Enugu State Command-and-Control Centre on 112, 09134666668, or 09134448093.” (NAN)

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NAF clarifies precautionary landing of C-130 aircraft in Burkina Faso

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ABUJA – The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified that its C-130 transport aircraft made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on Monday after the crew detected a technical concern shortly after takeoff from Lagos.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this known in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Ejodame said that the aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal for scheduled maintenance when the crew opted to divert in line with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols.

He said the aircrew landed safely and had since received cordial support from Burkinabe authorities, adding that plans were ongoing to resume the mission once technical checks were completed.

Ejodame reassured the public that the NAF remained committed to strict compliance with operational and safety standards while ensuring the protection of its personnel in the discharge of its constitutional duties. (NAN)

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Anambra CP orders arrest of impersonators of security agencies

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AWKA – The Commissioner of Police (CP),  Anambra Command, Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered the arrest of individuals impersonating security personnel in the state to extort the public or compromise security.

Orutugu gave the order on Tuesday in Awka, following security assessments showing that unauthorised persons have been using police and other security agency uniforms to commit crimes in the state.

“The Anambra Police Command has introduced new enforcement measures to strengthen public security and curb the misuse of security uniforms,” Orutugu said.

“These directives aim to ensure proper identification of all security personnel on duty and to eliminate the activities of impersonators who endanger public safety.

“Anyone found wearing, selling, or using police or other security agency uniforms, kits, or accessories without authorisation will face immediate arrest and prosecution.”

He stressed that security uniforms remained classified government property, and unlawful possession constitutes a criminal offence.

He said impersonators often used the uniforms to commit crimes, intimidate residents, and evade law enforcement scrutiny.

Orutugu further directed all divisional police officers, tactical teams, and patrol units across the state to intensify visibility policing and verify the identities of personnel during operations.

He urged residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious individuals impersonating security personnel.

He said residents could report such individuals through the Anambra Police Control Room at 07039194332 or the Police Public Relations Officer at 08039334002.(NAN)

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Politics

MD lauds Tinubu’s hands-on leadership in students’ rescue operations

by Administrator
written by Administrator

KANO – The Managing Director of the Hadejia‑Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his decisive personal intervention in the successful rescue of the abducted students from Kebbi and Niger.

Bichi, in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Kano, appreciated Tinubu for demonstrating exceptional leadership and deep concern for the security and welfare of Nigerian citizens.
“We must acknowledge and sincerely appreciate President Bola Tinubu for his great concern and the bold moves taken in rescuing our precious children.
“History shows that while past administrations often limited their response to strong condemnations, Tinubu went a step further by personally aborting an important international trip to Johannesburg to command the rescue mission.
“This hands‑on approach sets a new, proactive standard of leadership at the highest level,” he said.
 Bichi noted a concerning trend in public discourse, in which tragedies were met with swift condemnation of the government and blame placed on the president, often with accusations of inaction.
“It has become a pattern that when such heart‑breaking tragedies strike, the focus is predominantly on blaming the government and the President for allowing it to happen or for perceived delays in response.
“However, there is a palpable reluctance to extend credit where it is due when the same President and our security forces, especially the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, demonstrated courage, dedication and ultimately averted a greater catastrophe by rescuing the victims,” Bichi added.
He said that while holding leadership accountable was a vital aspect of democracy, fairness demands that exemplary acts of courage and successful operations receive national acknowledgment and support.
“Such recognition strengthens national morale and motivates security agencies.
“The successful rescue of these students is a victory for our nation, made possible by the President’s direct involvement and the tireless efforts of our security personnel.
“Let us be a people who are balanced in our engagement, constructive in criticism, but also generous in praise where praise is earned.
“This is essential for building a united front against the challenges we face,” he added.
 Bichi reaffirmed the commitment of the authority, under his leadership, to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, particularly in fostering sustainable development and security in the communities within its operational zone.(NAN)
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World News

British MP, Tulip Siddiq, sentenced in absentia to 2 years in prison

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DHAKA – A Bangladesh court sentenced British parliamentarian and former minister Tulip Siddiq in absentia to two years in jail on Monday.

Siddiq was sentenced in a corruption case involving the alleged illegal allocation of a plot of land, prosecutors said.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is Siddiq’s aunt, was sentenced in absentia to five years in jail and her sister Rehana to seven.

All three were fined 100,000 taka (820.00 dollars) each, and failure to pay will result in an additional six months in prison, the court said.

Siddiq, who resigned in January as the UK’s minister responsible for financial services and anti-corruption efforts following scrutiny over financial ties to Hasina, has previously dismissed the allegations as a “politically motivated smear”.

Britain does not have an extradition treaty with Bangladesh.

Hasina’s representatives did not respond immediately to a request for comment by Reuters.

Prosecutors said that the land in the capital Dhaka, measuring roughly 13,610 square feet (1,264 square metres), was unlawfully allocated through political influence and collusion with senior officials.

They said the three powerful defendants, Siddiq, Hasina and Rehana, abused their authority to secure the plot during Hasina’s tenure as prime minister.

The land was supposed to be used for a new township to ease housing and population pressure in Dhaka, the court heard.

Fourteen other people also charged in the case were sentenced to five years in prison.

Hasina, who fled to neighbouring India in August 2024 at the height of an uprising against her government, was sentenced to death in November over her government’s violent crackdown on demonstrators during the protests.

Earlier, she was handed a combined 21-year prison sentence in other corruption cases. (Reuter/NAN)

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Anioma leaders reject proposal for inclusion in South-East 

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ASABA – Lawmakers from Delta North and nine council chairmen from the Senatorial District have kicked against the proposal that the proposed Anioma State be made part of the South-East region.

In a statement jointly issued in Asaba and made available to newsmen on Sunday, the group affirmed their push for Anioma State but insisted it must remain in the South-South region.
They contended that the South-South region reflected the people’s historical and administrative roots.
They also said that their stance followed extensive discussions on renewed national debates surrounding the creation of new states across the country.
The leaders said the quest for Anioma State was a long-standing pursuit anchored in history and championed by past and present stakeholders.
They described the movement as a generational effort to secure political identity, protect cultural heritage, and accelerate development for the Anioma people.
The statement partly read: “Our demand for Anioma State is a just and historic aspiration passed down by our forebears.
“Our quest for a distinct and autonomous Anioma State is not a fleeting political venture but a legitimate aspiration deeply rooted in history, championed by our revered forebears.
“We are united in the belief that the creation of Anioma State is a matter of justice, equity, and a necessary step towards fulfilling the political and developmental destiny of the Anioma people.”
They added that achieving statehood would promote equity and support the wider developmental ambitions of the Anioma nation.
The group declared full support for creating the state strictly from the nine Delta North Local Government Areas that also constitute the nine state constituencies, with Asaba as its capital.
It listed the councils as Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North-East, Ika South, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, and Ukwuani.
It pledged to use its political influence to support legitimate efforts aimed at securing Anioma State.
They, however, condemned suggestions linking Anioma to a merger with the South-East, calling such proposals historically inaccurate.
They insisted that Anioma’s identity was firmly rooted in the South-South and that any contrary idea was unacceptable.
The statement stressed that Anioma’s cultural and administrative alignment with the South-South was longstanding and non-negotiable.
The leaders assured residents that they would continue to defend Anioma’s collective interest as national discussions on state creation progresses.
Meanwhile, the House of Representative members from Delta North have repudiated the speculation that Asaba might be removed as the designated capital of the long-envisioned Anioma State.
They made their position known in a statement jointly issued by Reps Ngozi Okolie (Aniocha North/Aniocha South/Oshimili North/Oshimili South), Victor Nwokolo (Ika North East/Ika South), and Nnamdi Ezechi (Ndokwa East/Ndokwa West/Ukwuani).
They described the rumour as “divisive, unpatriotic, and completely disconnected from the aspirations of the Anioma people”.
They stressed that the choice of Asaba as capital was not a recent decision but the product of decades of consultations, cultural logic, historical consensus, and broad political agreement across all Anioma clans.
The statement noted that the agitation for Anioma State creation was not the ambition of any individual, regardless of status or personal interest.
It, therefore, cautioned that no single actor could rewrite what has long been accepted by all communities in Delta North, including Aniocha, Oshimili, Ika, and Ndokwa/Ukwuani.
It condemned what it termed “opportunistic agitations” by those seeking personal relevance under the guise of advocating state creation.
According to the lawmakers, any attempt to reopen the settled question of the capital amounts to an assault on the unity and cultural identity of the Anioma people.
They emphasised that the boundaries and capital of the proposed state had been clearly established and remain unchanged.
They insisted that Asaba “stands – without controversy – as the historically agreed capital of Anioma State.”
The legislators called on residents to remain calm and not be swayed by misinformation or political distractions.
They assured their constituencies that they remain committed to the realisation of Anioma State and would continue to voice their genuine yearnings at the National Assembly. (NAN)
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World News

Landmine casualties hit 4-year high as states exit ban treaty

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GENEVA – Deaths and injuries from landmines and unexploded ordnance hit a four-year high in 2024, driven by conflicts in Syria and Myanmar and European countries withdraw from the treaty banning their use.

A new report showed on Monday that over 6,000 incidents were recorded in 2024, including 1,945 deaths and 4,325 injuries, the highest annual total since 2020.

According to the Landmine Monitor 2025 report, 90 per cent were civilians, with almost half women and children.

The surge was driven mainly by mines exploding in conflict zones in Syria and Myanmar, both countries which are outside the treaty.

In Syria, returning residents face growing risks from unexploded ordnance following the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad, the report said.

Myanmar recorded the highest number with over 2,000 incidents due to increased use by both the army and non-state armed groups, the report said.

The treaty, which came into effect in 1999, binds 166 states, 85 per cent of the world, prohibiting the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of anti-personnel mines.

It also requires parties to clear contaminated areas and assist victims.

Several European nations are seeking withdrawal at a time when global funding cuts are hampering clearance efforts.

Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland are in the process of legally exiting the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel landmines in the face of what they say are growing military threats from Russia risking the treaty’s “dangerous erosion”, the report stated.

Ukraine announced its withdrawal from the Convention on June 29.

Military analysts said that doing so could help slow the Russian advances Kyiv is struggling to contain over three years after Moscow’s full-scale invasion.

Activists said there should be a global ban on a weapon that blights huge swathes of territory and maims and kills civilians long after conflicts have abated.

The report also documented signs of new Ukrainian mine use, plus Thailand’s accusations that Cambodian forces deployed anti-personnel mines in a July disputed border clash, which Cambodia denies.

Russia and Myanmar, non-signatories, used landmines extensively, the report said.

Donor funding cuts, including from the U.S., resulted in reduced survivor support and termination of several humanitarian mine action programmes compared with prior years, according to the report.

States party to the Mine Ban Treaty meet in Geneva this week.(Reuters/NAN )

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Sports

Amorim credits United’s attention to details for win at Palace

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LONDON –  Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim hailed his team’s response after Sunday’s 2-1 come-from-behind victory at Crystal Palace.

This ended the hosts’ long unbeaten home run days after a disappointing loss to 10-man Everton at Old Trafford.

Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount struck in the second half to lift United above Palace to sixth in the table.

“It’s important to win every game and again today was proof that if you play the same way but increase the way we fight for every ball and the small details.

“The certainty on the pass, the movements, we work on that in a different pace, we can beat anyone,” Amorim said.

United’s victory, only their second on the road in the last 12 games, came at one of toughest places to play,  Selhurst Park, where Palace had not lost in the league since February.

Although the hosts dominated the first half, Amorim, still under pressure after United’s stumbling start to the season, was pleased with his team’s intensity after the interval.

“We increased the rhythm in the second half. We took advantage of the opponent that we felt even in the first half, the last 15 minutes, (Palace) were tired,” Amorim said.

“But the main change was the intensity and the pace of our game, even quality when we connect, especially with Josh in the second half, was different.

“So I think in the end, we deserved the three points, and I’m really happy to give that to the fans.”

Zirkzee, who started in place of injured Matheus Cunha, scored his first league goal in almost a year and fourth since joining United in 2024.

“It is so important for a striker to score a goal,” Amorim said.

“He is not playing many minutes but the way he responds in the second half is really important. It’s more important than just the goal.

“Again the small details — win one first ball for us to win the second ball.

“The connection is so important for our game. The goal is really important for our team and for him.” (Reuters/NAN)

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Ambassador pledges Switzerland’s continued support for preserving Benin art

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BENIN – Mr Patrick Egloff, Switzerland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Chad, Niger and ECOWAS, has pledged his country’s continued support for Benin Kingdom in preserving its art.

In a  statement on Sunday in Benin, Mr  Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Chief Press Secretary to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, said that the envoy made the pledge when he visited the royal father in his palace.

According to Iguobaro, Egloff acknowledged Ewuare’s efforts in promoting  Benin cultural heritage, saying that the Swiss Government was working with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments and a team of researchers to preserve Benin art.

Iguobaro said that in response, the royal father expressed gratitude to the Swiss Government for the support and solicited its partnership with the Oba Ewuare Foundation.

According  to him, the foundation is focused on rehabilitating victims of human trafficking and illegal migration.

Iguobaro that the visit showed the strong diplomatic ties between Switzerland and Nigeria, particularly in the area of cultural cooperation. (NAN)

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FRSC directs compulsory road signage at construction sites

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ABUJA – The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Malam Shehu Mohammed, on Monday, directed construction companies on Nigerian roads, to ensure placement of road signs at the construction sites nationwide.

Mohammed made this known in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer, (CPEO), Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide in Abuja.

He said that the directive aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing nationwide road construction and rehabilitation efforts aimed at improving safety and enhancing efficiency of the country’s highway.

He said that the directive is to guarantee the safety of motorists and other road users around active and inactive construction zones.

The Corps Marshal further instructed all Commanding Officers across FRSC formations, to commence strict and effective enforcement of the directive nationwide.

He condemned the recurring failure of some construction companies to provide proper warning and diversion signs at project sites, adding that such negligence exposes road users to avoidable risks.

He stressed that the directive was final and enforceable, and that FRSC field commands will intensify supervision and take regulatory action against defaulters..

Mohammed reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to ensure that Federal Government’s investment in road infrastructure translates into safer and more secure travel for all.(NAN)

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Sani to Abbas: We’re proud of your achievements

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KADUNA (Sundiata Post) – Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, on Sunday described the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, as one of the most accomplished presiding officers in the history of Nigeria’s National Assembly.

Speaking in Zaria at the Renewed Hope Empowerment Programme sponsored by the speaker, Sani, who was the Special Guest of Honour, said Abbas’s leadership of the 10th House has earned commendation not only from him but also from President Bola Tinubu.

The Governor appreciated Tinubu for giving full support to the speaker, stating that such backing had contributed to the stability of the lower legislative chamber.

“As a former Senator, I know how difficult it is to preside over the House of Representatives.

“There are 360 members, and no matter your competence or patience, one day you will be pushed to the wall,” he said.

Sani added that, in his view and that of Tinubu, no past speaker had driven development as much as Abbas.

“I’m not the one praising him for the unity he brought to the House. It was the President of Nigeria who said it. I am only repeating his words,” he stated.

Sani also commended Abbas for supporting youths and women empowerment not only in Zaria but across Kaduna State and the country.

He recalled that some political actors had questioned his early support for Abbas’s emergence as speaker, but said that recent achievements had validated his decision.

“My support was not based on politics. I will support anyone who brings development to Kaduna State.

“I have been vindicated by the projects he has executed and the empowerment programmes he continues to deliver,” the governor said.

He added that he had urged other legislators from the state to prioritise constituency development.

“Anyone who does not attract a school, hospital or any project to his constituency, we will part ways with him,” he warned.

Sani further disclosed that Abbas had assisted all Kaduna lawmakers in securing federal projects in their constituencies.

He added that the speaker was currently undertaking projects across all the 23 local government areas of the state and appealed for similar attention to Sabon Gari Local Government, including the construction of a stadium comparable to the one in Zaria.

The empowerment event, held at Kofar Doka, Zaria, featured the distribution of SUVs to traditional leaders where the farmers received tractors, combined harvesters and fertiliser applicators,

Others were knapsack sprayers, and both solar powered and petrol driven water pumps for irrigation.

Women beneficiaries were supported with deep freezers, grinding machines, industrial sewing machines, and haulage tricycles.(NAN)

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OBJ, Jonathan, Osinbajo others celebrate Ex-Information Minister, Jerry Gana, @ 80

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ABUJA – Associates, political leaders and statesmen on Sunday night paid glowing tributes to elder statesman and former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, as he marked his 80th birthday.

Reports that they spoke at the unveiling of a book entitled: “Jerry Gana, Stewardship and Integrity” written by Mr Simon Musa in Abuja to mark the former minister’s birthday.

In his remarks, former President Olusegun Obasanjo described Gana as a man of integrity who is very thorough and intelligent.

According to Obasanjo, all sorts of things happen in politics while many wrong doings are concealed under the guise of politics, adding, however, that Gana does not cover up any form of misconduct.

“He is a man of clean, clear ideas; a man of clean, clear behaviour, clean clear relationships and for him, whatever task you give to him, he will try to do it to the best of his ability.

“So when he says to you, if you are a teacher, you teach well, he means it and if you make him a teacher, he will also teach you well.

“On behalf of all my own family and all of us who worked together in government, a government that you are a pillar of, the party that you are a foundation member of, let me, on behalf of all of us, wish you a very happy birthday and many happy returns.

“We all join you in celebrating and thanking God for your life; it is a great pleasure working with you in the party and the government,” he said.

In his message, former President Goodluck Jonathan said that Gana had been a distinguished elder statesman who dedicated many decades of his life to serving the country in various capacities.

Jonathan said that at 80, Gana’s life stood as a symbol of purposeful leadership and national inspiration.

“Your life of dedication, integrity and impact continues to motivate generations across different spheres of our endeavour.

“As we celebrate this milestone and unveil your book, I commend your visionary leadership and outstanding service to our country.

“You have contributed immensely to shaping national discourse, guiding public policy and nurturing democratic values,” he said.

Also speaking, the reviewer of the book, former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, said that the book has 425 pages and four parts, covering Gana’s birth, early life as well as his family and public life as a politician and an administrator.

Represented by a former Vice-Chancellor of Benue State University, Prof. Yakubu Ocheni, Osinbajo, however, noted that the book failed to explain how Gana managed to be a friend of all administrations right from the military days.

He said that the book was also silent on the role the former minister played as an adviser to Obasanjo during the third term agenda saga.

The National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Tanimu Turaki, described Gana as ‘a man of credibility, integrity, a politician’s politician, an icon, an enigma and an institution’.

“He is somebody who has made success in academics, in public life, in politics, in family life as well as in his private life and in everything that he ventured into,” he remarked.

The chairman said that the new PDP would make President Jerry Gana as possibility someday.

Turaki, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said that ‘new PDP’ would allow the people to decide what they want, how they want it and when they want it.

“The new PDP will ensure that there is transparency, there is fairness, there is equity and there is justice in whatever process we do.

“If you have integrity, like Prof. Jerry Gana, if you have credibility like Prof. Jenny Gana, if you have a brand like Prof. Jerry Gana, that is all you need in the new PDP to make it to the ballot paper,” he said.

In his remarks, a former Governor of Zamfara, Sen. Abdulaziz Yari, urged all guests to ensure the book circulates across the society.

Yari, who was represented by Sen. Tijani Kaura, urged Gana to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to further advance his service to humanity.

Former Gov. Aliyu Babgianda of Niger also said that the former minister had proven from 1983 till date that if one wants to succeed, a vision must be created.

He said that what Nigerians should do for Gana was to thank him, honour him and honour God for His creation.

“Gana is God-fearing, not only God-fearing but follows every tenet of God. I will love to see you at 90, will love to, even if not here but in Niger, celebrate your 90th birthday,” he said.

Reports that highlight of the event was the cutting of the birthday cake by the celebrator, in company with the guests.

In his response, an elated Gana commended all the former presidents, vice-president, serving and former ministers and legislators for gracing the occasion.

He also appreciated the author of the book as well all those who worked so hard to make the ceremony a success. (NAN)

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Security, welfare of Nigerians my  priorities – Tinubu

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LOKOJA – President Bola Tinubu says the security and welfare of every Nigerian remain the sacred priorities of his government.
Tinubu stated this on Sunday in Lokoja, at the 10th Memorial Anniversary Celebration  of the former governor of Kogi, Late Prince Abubakar Audu
Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris said the administration had taken various steps to deliver on the priorities.
The President said the recent declaration of a state of emergency on national security underscored the gravity with which his government viewed the challenge.
“It is not a mere proclamation. It is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity.
“As part of this, we have immediately begun the process of expanding the capacity of our armed forces and security agencies in numbers, in advanced weaponry and intelligence capabilities,” he said.
The President reiterated that the mis-characterisation of Nigeria as a religiously intolerant nation is a gross distortion of reality.
“We are actively presenting the true picture of Nigeria to the world.
“A nation where people of different faiths live, walk and pray side by side in peace.
“We will not relent until the world sees us for who we truly are,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu said that his administration intensified efforts in the modernisation of the livestock sector, empowerment of youths and expansion of infrastructure to deliver dividends of democracy and boost the economy.
“We are moving beyond old age practices that have too often led to conflict. We are launching a comprehensive initiative to modernise the livestock industry.
“The initiative includes the creation of large-scale managing schemes, improved animal husbandry of the livestock value chain into our national economy,” he said .
He said the initiatives were designed to create prosperity,  jobs, ensure food security and foster lasting peace.
“Through our social investment programs, we are placing the Nigerian people at the center of our governance..
“We are scaling up interventions to provide direct support to the most vulnerable, funding and nurturing our small and medium enterprises, our youth with the skills to compete and thrive in the global economy.
“We are undertaking an unprecedented expansion of our national infrastructure, from modernising our roads and rail networks to enhancing our power infrastructure,” Tinubu said.
Speaking on the main event, the President said, Audu’s name is irrevocably woven into the very fabric of the nation’s democratic journey.
According to him, Audu carved out a vision for Kogi and helped laid the foundation for Nigeria’s enduring journey to democracy.
Reports that high point of the event was a book presentation titled, “Prince Abubakar Audu: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership”, put together by Dan Okolo and reviewed by Mr Adetokunbo Kayode.
Also, the Board of Trustees of Prince Abubakar Audu Leadership Foundation was inaugurated with fund raising to support the take off of the Foundation. (NAN)
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Sports

West Africa Para Games: Nigeria tops medals table in para powerlifting 

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ABEOKUTA – Team Nigeria emerged overall winner in the Para Powerlifting game at the ongoing 1st West Africa Para Games, securing 10 out of the 15 medals contested in the category on Sunday.

The Paralifting game took place at the Alake Sport Centre, Ijeja in Abeokuta.

According to the results released by the Secretary-General of the Nigeria Para-Powerlifting Federation, Mrs Olabisi Afolabi-Oluwayemisi, Nigeria secured four gold, four silver and two bronze medals.

Côte d’Ivoire followed with one gold, while Ghana won one silver and two bronze medals. Benin Republic finished with a bronze medal.

A breakdown of Nigeria’s gold medal haul shows that Ibrahim Dauda claimed gold in the men’s 59kg category, while Kayode Blessing won the men’s 65kg event.

In the women’s events, Esther Oyema clinched gold in the lightweight category, and Mark Onyinyechi won gold in the heavyweight division.

The result also showed that Côte d’Ivoire’s Ado Adouherve secured gold in the men’s heavyweight category.

Speaking on the team’s performance, one of Nigeria’s para powerlifting coaches, Ijeoma Eherogbe, expressed excitement over team Nigeria’s victory, noting that the competition began on Friday and was concluded on Sunday.

“I am so excited that Nigeria came first despite all odds. We were able to achieve this through hard work and commitment. It has not been easy, but God did it,” she said.(NAN)

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Sports

Isak’s first league goal helps Liverpool to vital win at West Ham

by Administrator
written by Administrator
LONDON – Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak scored his first Premier League goal for the Reds as the under-pressure champions snapped a woeful run of form with a win at West Ham United.

Liverpool had endured their worst spell in over 70 years, losing nine of their previous 12 games.

Manager Arne Slot took drastic measures, leaving Mohamed Salah out of his starting line-up for the first time in the Premier League.

Salah’s replacement Florian Wirtz looked sharp, though he squandered Liverpool’s best chance of the first half with his tame effort from close range allowing Alphonse Areola to save.

Isak, who had looked short of form and fitness, spurned two opportunities before the break, drawing a fine reaction stop from Areola midway through the half.

But the Sweden striker slotted home a Cody Gakpo pull-back on the hour mark to give the Reds the lead they marginally deserved and rarely looked like giving up.

Liverpool’s cause was helped by Lucas Paqueta.

Paqueta was bizarrely booked twice for dissent within 60 seconds with less than 10 minutes to play, before Gakpo added a second in the 92nd minute to seal the three points.

Liverpool’s victory, only their second in eight league games, moved them up to eighth with 21 points from 13 matches, while West Ham are 17th with 11 points, level with 18th-placed Leeds United.

West Ham, whose players and fans paid tribute to former captain, coach and manager Billy Bonds who died aged 79 on Sunday, came into the match after back-to-back home victories and had seemingly turned the corner.

But Liverpool ultimately had too much quality and, crucially for Slot, managed to keep their fifth clean sheet of the season after shipping 10 goals in their last three games.

Isak could have put Liverpool in front inside four minutes but spooned his effort well over the bar, with his protracted move from Newcastle United still seemingly affecting him.

West Ham looked sharper after the break, with Paqueta sending an audacious half-volley from 30 yards narrowly wide as the home fans believed Liverpool were there for the taking.

In the 60th minute, however, Isak was left unmarked in the box as Liverpool recycled possession from a throw-in and the striker coolly side-footed into the bottom corner.

Paqueta saw red in the 83rd minute to make West Ham’s task all the harder before Gakpo sent the home fans streaming for the exits with a clinical finish. (Reuters/NAN)

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