Month: February 2025

By Uzair Adam

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan.

He made the declaration in a nationwide broadcast, stating that the Sultanate Council’s moon sighting committee had received credible reports from traditional rulers and religious leaders across the country confirming the sighting of the new crescent.

The Sultan urged Muslims to dedicate themselves to worship during the holy month and use the period to pray for Nigeria and its leaders.

He also called for peaceful coexistence among citizens and encouraged wealthy individuals to support the less privileged in observing the fast with ease.

While praying for God’s guidance and wisdom for the nation’s leaders, he emphasized the importance of unity and compassion during Ramadan.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Former Vice President and PDP Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has voiced serious concerns over allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. 

Atiku emphasised the need for a thorough and transparent investigation into these claims, stating, “The Nigerian Senate represents the voice of the people, and its leadership must uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect.” 

Atiku stressed that as a powerful figure, the Senate President is expected to demonstrate exemplary character.

Highlighting the detrimental impact of sexual harassment on women’s advancement, Atiku called for credible actions from Nigerian leadership to address these allegations and assure safety in governance for female legislators. 

“This matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice and inclusion,” he remarked, urging for an environment where every citizen can work without fear.

The political landscape now awaits the Senate’s response as the nation watches closely for accountability and integrity in leadership.

By Uzair Adam

The crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, the moon sighting committee announced on Friday evening.

The Daily Reality reports that with this confirmation, the holy month will commence on Saturday, March 1.

Observatories across the Kingdom, including those in Sudair and Tumair, confirmed the sighting of the moon.

This follows an earlier call by the Supreme Court on Thursday, urging Muslims to look for the crescent on Friday evening.

The court advised anyone who sights the moon, whether with the naked eye or binoculars, to report their observation to the nearest court or contact a local center for guidance on submitting their testimony.

Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting committee routinely monitors the skies ahead of Ramadan’s expected start date and encourages other Muslims to participate in the sighting process.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has leveled serious accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation for rejecting his advances.

In an interview on Friday, the lawmaker claimed that Akpabio had punished her for refusing his sexual advances.

She further stated that she has evidence to support her allegations.

The controversy between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio escalated after the Kogi Senator discovered that her seat in the Senate had been changed without her consent.

This led to a heated argument between the two, resulting in Akpoti-Uduaghan being referred to the Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for a disciplinary review.

The committee, headed by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), was tasked with reporting back within two weeks.

In a dramatic twist, Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a N100.3 billion fundamental human rights suit against Akpabio.

During her interview, the senator also revealed that her husband is a witness to the events and has provided support to her claims.

These accusations have further fueled tensions within the Senate as many social media users in Nigeria have been debating about the issue.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), Prof. Salisu Shehu, has called for the assistance of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in addressing rising crime and insecurity, particularly the recurring theft incidents threatening the safety of the Council’s office.

During a visit to the Commissioner of Police (CP) of the FCT Command, Prof. Shehu emphasized the vital role the police play in ensuring the safety of NERDC’s operations, especially since the office is located on the outskirts of Abuja, making it more vulnerable to criminal activities. He appealed for enhanced security to protect lives and property at the NERDC headquarters.

“We need special attention and support to feel secure in our location,” Prof. Shehu stated, expressing concern over the vulnerability of the staff and office to security risks.

The Executive Secretary also brought up the recent case of stolen solar inverters, which is under investigation by the police. He urged that the case be thoroughly investigated and that the perpetrators be brought to justice, noting that past thefts within the Council remain unresolved. He expressed NERDC’s readiness to fully support the investigation to ensure accountability.

In response, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Criminal Investigation Department, DCP Aliyu Abubakar, welcomed the NERDC management team on behalf of CP Olatunji Disu, who was unavailable due to national duties.

He reiterated the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and the police in ensuring the security of lives and properties, and assured that the police would continue to work professionally to resolve the case and bring the culprits to justice.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have signed a strategic agreement to enhance their participation in the global halal economy, valued at $7.7 trillion. The deal focuses on boosting halal trade, investment, and certification, fostering economic cooperation between the two nations.

Signed during high-level meetings, the agreement positions Nigeria as a key player in halal industries, including food, finance, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

Saudi Arabia, a dominant force in the sector, will provide expertise and market access to support Nigeria’s expansion.

Officials believe the partnership will create jobs, enhance exports, and attract foreign investment, positioning Nigeria as a leading halal market in Africa.

By Sadiq Mukhtar

Nigeria’s North-West region, comprised of seven states (Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara), has long faced significant socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to essential services. Recognising the urgent need for intervention, the Nigerian government, through the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) Act, 2024, provided the legislative framework for the Commission’s operations, powers, and functions.

In 2024, under His Excellency, President Senator Bola Tinubu’s administration, the NWDC governing board was formally unveiled, ushering in a new era of development for the region. At the forefront of this ambitious initiative is Prof. Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji, whose appointment as the pioneer Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer reflects his impressive track record and the immense confidence placed in him by the national leadership. Retained even after a rigorous review of nominees, Prof. Ma’aji’s selection underscores his reputation as a transformative leader poised to tackle the longstanding challenges of the North-West region.

On February 11, 2025, Prof. Ma’aji delivered his inaugural address as the pioneer Managing Director of the NWDC. He set the tone for his administration and outlined a bold vision for the future of the North-West region. He began by acknowledging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s trust in him and reaffirmed his commitment to revitalising the region.

His speech reflected a profound understanding of the socioeconomic realities faced by the North-West region, encompassing poverty, education, and healthcare challenges, as well as agricultural stagnation, energy deficits, and environmental degradation. Despite these obstacles, he emphasised that the region also holds tremendous potential, including vast natural resources, a resilient population, and a rich cultural heritage. His clear message was that with strategic leadership, genuine collaboration, and a commitment to accountability, the North-West region can become a beacon of inclusive growth and sustainable development. 

He outlined his four key priority areas for the NWDC:

1. Infrastructure Development – Upgrading our roads, bridges, and power supply to boost economic activity and improve our quality of life.
2. Economic Growth & Job Creation – Supporting small businesses, fostering innovation, and revitalising agriculture to create jobs and drive industrial growth.
3. Human Capital Development – Investing in education, agriculture, healthcare, and technical skills training to prepare our workforce for the modern economy.
4. Transparency & Good Governance – Enforcing strong anti-corruption measures and ensuring all projects are carried out in a collaborative and accountable manner.

The MD also emphasised that Nigeria’s future lies in harnessing the strength of its workforce – especially by promoting technical skill acquisition. He underscored the need to empower the North-West youth through vocational and digital training, aligning our education system with the demands of the modern economy to create lasting job opportunities. He reaffirmed his commitment to a leadership approach rooted in transparency, innovation, and impact-driven policies. 

His vision for transformation extends beyond policy rhetoric. His leadership is anchored in practical solutions and result-driven strategies. His extensive background in development studies, social policy, and community engagement has equipped him with the practical insights needed to drive impactful change. 

His foresight in innovation was evident during his tenure as the Dean of Student Affairs of the Federal University of Technology Minna (FUT Minna), where he established a University Media FM. This pioneering initiative highlights his commitment to technological advancement, youth engagement, and innovative education.

Prof. Ma’aji believes that the North-West region can only reclaim its position as a dynamic economic hub through transparency, innovation, unity, and visionary leadership. The NWDC represents a vital opportunity to reverse decades of neglect and bring tangible change to communities. 

Under his leadership, the Commission will conduct comprehensive needs assessments, develop a robust strategic plan, and implement effective policies to revitalise key sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and education. By leveraging modern technology, innovative financing models, and a collaborative approach, transformative change is within reach.

At a time when visionary leadership is crucial to overcoming longstanding developmental challenges, Prof. Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji stands out as a transformative figure at the helm of the North West Development Commission. His unique blend of academic rigor, professional expertise, and ethical leadership sets the stage for the region’s revival.

As NWDC embarks on its ambitious mission to address poverty, insecurity, and infrastructural decay, the good people of the North West region remain hopeful that under Prof. Ma’aji’s guidance, a new chapter of growth, prosperity, and resilience is well within reach.

Sadiq Mukhtar, PhD writes from the Kano Municipal Local Government Area of Kano State via abubsadiq@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has suspended the Acting Head of Service and Permanent Secretary, Establishment, Salisu Mustapha, with immediate effect over alleged salary deductions and non-payment of some civil servants’ salaries.

A statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, confirmed that Mustapha has also been directed to step aside from his position as Permanent Secretary, Establishment, under the Office of the Head of Service, to allow for a thorough investigation.

To ensure smooth administration, the governor approved the appointment of Malam Umar Muhammad Jalo, the Permanent Secretary of REPA, as the new Acting Head of Service pending the outcome of the probe.

Governor Yusuf reiterated his zero-tolerance stance on financial malpractice, warning that anyone found culpable will face severe consequences.

Earlier on Thursday, the governor had issued a stern warning over the widespread complaints of salary underpayment and non-payment affecting state civil servants since October 2024.

In response, he inaugurated a seven-man committee led by Abdulkadir Abdussalam to investigate the issue.

The committee has been given seven days to uncover the root of the irregularities and submit its findings.

Mustapha was appointed Acting Head of Service earlier this month following the medical leave of the substantive Head of Service, Abdullahi Musa, who is currently receiving treatment in India.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Operatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Benin Zonal Directorate, have arrested 19 individuals linked to internet fraud in a series of operations across Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

The suspects were apprehended after credible intelligence suggested their involvement in various forms of cybercrime, which include romance scams, phishing, and identity theft.

The operation, which was carried out across different locations within the city, led to the recovery of several high-end items, including seven luxury cars, laptops, and mobile phones.

These items are believed to have been acquired through illicit online activities.

The suspects, whose identities have not been fully disclosed, are said to have made useful statements to EFCC investigators.

The arrested individuals are expected to face charges related to cybercrime and other fraudulent activities once investigations are concluded.

The EFCC has vowed to continue its fight against internet fraud and other financial crimes, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activities.

As part of its ongoing efforts, the EFCC is also working on measures to track and dismantle criminal networks involved in cyber fraud across the country.

Recall that the commission has warned individuals involved in such illegal activities that they will face the full force of the law.

The EFCC further noted that internet fraud remains a top priority in its efforts to curb financial crimes and protect citizens from financial exploitation.

The suspects, currently in EFCC custody, will soon be charged to court for prosecution as part of the commission’s commitment to bringing fraudsters to justice.

The EFCC has also pledged to strengthen its collaborations with international agencies to combat cross-border cybercrime.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to his residence in Kaduna today, after spending two years in Daura, Katsina State, following the completion of his term in May 2023.

After leaving office, Buhari chose to live a quiet life in Daura, and distanced himself from direct political activities while focusing on personal matters.

His return to Kaduna was marked by a warm reception from his supporters.

He was, it was observed, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and several top government officials, including Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum; and his counterpart from Kaduna State, Uba Sani.

Other dignitaries in his entourage included former Inspector General of Police, ex-ministers, and some of his close aides.