News

By Uzair Adam Imam

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) expressed outrage over the deaths of two students at Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) during a stampede caused by the distribution of palliatives.

NANS President, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, called for a “thorough investigation” into the incident.

“The tragic event at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, which resulted in the loss of two lives and numerous injuries, is vehemently condemned,” Emonefe said in a statement.

He offered condolences to the bereaved families and demanded that “those responsible for the mishandling of the distribution of palliatives be held accountable.”

NANS urged authorities to adopt “modern distribution methods” to prioritize safety during aid distribution.

They also called on the university to provide counseling and support services to the affected students.
 

By Muhammad Abdurrahman

Banks should freeze funds and suspend services to individuals and groups included on the list.

Russia’s Federal Financial Monitoring Service (Rosfinmonitoring) expanded its list of individuals and organizations involved in extremist activities or terrorism on Friday to include the LGBT movement. The updated list is available on the agency’s website.

According to the law, banks are required to freeze the funds of individuals included on this list and suspend services to them.

Last November, the Russian Supreme Court upheld the Ministry of Justice’s recognition of the international LGBT movement as extremist. The court also recognized its structural divisions as extremist and banned them.

According to Interfax sources, the law “does not affect citizens’ right to privacy and will not entail any negative legal consequences.” The restrictions are related to the need to comply with the ban on LGBT propaganda, advertising, generating interest, and involvement in the LGBT movement.

Source: RT

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has taken a significant step towards fostering international trade by reopening the Kamba Border, following directives from the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR).

The newly appointed Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Iheanacho Ojike, officially announced the reopening on Friday, March 15, 2024, marking a pivotal moment for cross-border commerce. 

In a press release issued by Mohammed Salisu, the Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer for the Kebbi Area Command, Comptroller Ojike, reiterated the strategic importance of the Kamba Border, emphasising its role in revenue generation for Kebbi State.

Speaking at the border’s reopening ceremony, which was attended by stakeholders, the district head of Kamba, Mamuda Fana, and representatives from sister agencies, CAC Ojike emphasized the commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while upholding national security interests. 

The reopening of the Kamba Border signals a renewed focus on promoting lawful commerce that contributes positively to the nation’s development agenda.

Comptroller Ojike stated the readiness of Customs officers to ensure fair and transparent trade practices, provided that stakeholders comply with existing customs laws, declare their goods accurately, and fulfil their financial obligations to the Federal Government. 

However, CAC Ojike issued a stern reminder that certain commodities, particularly grains, remain prohibited for exportation due to concerns about food scarcity within the country.

This measure reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard national food security interests. 

In response to the reopening, Mamuda Fana expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for ushering in a new era of economic opportunity for the people of Kebbi State, particularly those engaged in cross-border and small-scale businesses in Kamba town.

He pledged to work closely with customs authorities to discourage illicit trade activities and promote lawful commerce. 

As part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and enhance border security, Comptroller Ojike paid courtesy visits to key stakeholders, including the Emir of Gwandu, Major General Muhammed Iliyasu (Rtd), and other sister agencies.

These engagements underscore the importance of multi-agency cooperation in curbing smuggling activities, ensuring community safety, and facilitating smooth trade operations across borders.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Africa’s wealthiest individual, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has launched an initiative to feed 10,000 fasting Muslims daily in Kano State, along with distributing one million bags of rice nationwide through the Aliko Dangote Foundation. 

According to a statement by Samira Sanusi, an official of the foundation in Kano, the aim is to alleviate hunger amidst economic challenges across Nigeria.

The gesture, valued at over N13 billion, seeks to provide essential sustenance during the holy month of Ramadan. 

The distributed meals, which include jollof rice, white rice and stew, jollof spaghetti, yam, beans with chicken, and beef, are complemented with a bottle of water and a drink for each recipient.

These provisions are dispersed at Juma’at mosques, streets, prisons, orphanages, remand homes, and other locations in Kano city and its environs. 

Musas Maikatako, a beneficiary of the meal, expressed profound gratitude for the assistance, highlighting its significance in easing the hardship faced by many during Ramadan.

He stressed that the provision of solid food for breaking the fast is a significant relief, particularly for those who would otherwise have only water. 

Similarly, Hajiya Inna Tukur shared her joy at receiving such nourishing food during challenging times, expressing heartfelt thanks to Aliko Dangote and his foundation for their benevolence. 

This initiative builds upon Dangote’s longstanding commitment to philanthropy, with Mrs. Sanusi revealing that for over 30 years, the Dangote Foundation has quietly fed 10,000 residents of Kano daily with breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This sustained effort, originating from Dangote’s mother’s residence in Koki and various cooking locations, shows a profound dedication to uplifting communities and combating hunger. 

Through such impactful initiatives, Aliko Dangote continues to demonstrate his commitment to social responsibility.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

There was a tragic incident on Thursday, March 14, 2024, as troops from the 181 Amphibious Battalion, stationed in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, found themselves under attack during a peacekeeping mission in the Okuoma community.

Responding to a distress call following a communal crisis between the Okuama and Okoloba communities, the military personnel were surrounded by youths from Okuoma and brutally attacked. 

The assault resulted in the loss of lives, including the commanding officer, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers from the reinforcement team. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, swiftly responded by ordering an immediate investigation into the incident and the apprehension of those responsible for this heinous crime.

The Delta State Government has been notified of the occurrence. In the wake of this tragedy, the military reaffirms its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across the nation.

Despite the setback, efforts are underway to identify the motives behind the attack, with several arrests already made. Further details will be provided as the investigation progresses. 

Tukur Gusau, Brigadier General and Acting Director of Defence Information, issued this statement on March 16, 2024, indicating the gravity of the situation and the military’s determination to ensure justice is served.

 By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Kikelomo Adeniyi, the National President of the Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), and wife of the Comptroller-General of Customs, spearheaded the extension of palliative distribution to COWA members in Abuja on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Mrs.

Adeniyi embarked on a tour that included visits to the Federal Capital Territory Command, Nigeria Customs Command, and Staff College Gwagwalada.

During these visits, she delivered a resounding message of solidarity and support to the officers’ wives in attendance, acknowledging their immense challenges and reaffirming COWA’s commitment to providing assistance and empowerment. 

Expressing gratitude to the attendees for their unwavering commitment, the COWA president recognised the sacrifices made by officers’ wives and their invaluable contributions to the Customs community.

She emphasized the significance of empowering women, aligning COWA’s initiatives with the broader national agenda of women’s empowerment championed by the First Lady, Remi Bola Tinubu. 

Encouraging swift registration as members of COWA, President Kikelomo elucidated the myriad benefits awaiting registered members, ranging from access to support services to participation in empowerment programs.

She also articulated COWA’s vision of institutionalising the association and maintaining a comprehensive database of registered members to ensure effective service delivery and support. 

Highlighting the pivotal role of COWA in uplifting women across the nation, Adeniyi reiterated the association’s commitment to empowering widows, orphans, and officers’ wives alike to be self-reliant.

She emphasised the symbiotic relationship between personal empowerment and the ability to uplift others, fostering a culture of support and solidarity within the association. 

Addressing officers directly, the National President urged them to embrace their wives’ participation in COWA activities, recognizing the positive impact on family dynamics and societal progress.

She reassured officers of the benefits stemming from their wives’ involvement, highlighting the transformative power of mutual respect and support within marital relationships. 

During her visit to the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College Gwagwalada, Mrs. Adeniyi commended the Commandant of the College, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Kingsley Egwuh, for his unwavering support of COWA activities and dedication to the institution’s growth and development.  

ACG Egwuh reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to providing unwavering support to COWA, recognizing the pivotal role of the association in fostering unity and support within the Customs community.

He pledged continued collaboration and assistance, acknowledging the indispensable nature of COWA’s initiatives in driving positive change and empowerment.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The federal government has stepped in to offer support by donating two cutting-edge digital firefighting trucks to the Kano State government.

The unveiling ceremony, graced by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, was marked by expressions of gratitude towards the Federal Government for its crucial assistance. 

Governor Yusuf, acknowledging the donation, expressed profound appreciation for the gesture, highlighting the substantial impact these firefighting trucks would have on bolstering safety and security within the state.

He assured the public that the resources would be utilised judiciously for the benefit of all citizens.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

In a bid to strengthen ties between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Kano State Government, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, held a crucial meeting with Governor Abba Kabir on Sunday, March 10, 2024.

The meeting underscored the commitment of both parties to enhancing trade facilitation and addressing food security challenges within Kano State. 

During the meeting, CGC Adeniyi reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s dedication to fostering trade and cooperation with the Kano community.

He stated the importance of establishing an export terminal in the state to streamline business operations, addressing concerns regarding food security.

Additionally, directives from President Ahmed Tinubu regarding the return of detained grains to alleviate food insecurity were shared. 

Governor Abba Kabir warmly welcomed CGC Adeniyi, commending the proactive efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding national borders and promoting economic prosperity.

He pledged full support from the Kano State Government to facilitate the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing import and export activities, especially within the Dawanau International Grains Market. 

In a separate engagement aimed at fostering collaboration with stakeholders, CGC Adeniyi visited the Mamuda Group of Companies in Kano.

This visit showcased the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to forging strong partnerships with private enterprises to facilitate trade and revenue generation across the nation. 

During the visit, CGC Adeniyi noted the importance of easing business processes for traders nationwide, highlighting the pivotal role of collaboration between the Customs Service and private enterprises.

In response, Mr. Hassan Hammoud, Chairman and CEO of the Mamuda Group, expressed appreciation for CGC Adeniyi’s visit and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to complying with customs regulations, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship. 

By Uzair Adam Imam

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider reopening the country’s borders for the importation of foodstuff in order to address the current food crisis.

Governor Yusuf stressed that the closure of the borders has had a significant impact on the people of Kano State, leading to increased food prices and suffering.

In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf called for the reopening of the country’s borders to address the current food crisis.

The statement was released following a meeting between the governor and the Controller General of the Nigerian Customs Service, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, at the Government House in Kano.

Governor Yusuf noted the critical condition of hunger and starvation in the country, which has been exacerbated by the sharp increase in commodity prices.

The statement read in part; “We wish appreciate the President’s intervention on the ongoing national food initiative which he considers Kano as the host for the initiative to be launched believing that the programme will cushion the effects of food scarcity if implemented”

Governor Yusuf stressed the urgent need for intervention, including the reopening of the borders to allow for the importation of commodities.

In his meeting with the Controller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Governor Yusuf highlighted the hardships faced by the people, particularly during Ramadan.

He stressed that the opening of the borders would be a crucial step in alleviating the distress of the people.

In addition to advocating for the reopening of the borders, Governor Yusuf commended the Customs Service’s initiative to distribute food items to the people of Kano, who have been facing hardship and hunger.

He urged the Customs Service to ensure that the food reaches those who are most affected. The governor also pledged his support to the Customs Service in its efforts to benefit the people of Kano and Nigeria as a whole.

In his response, Adeniyi emphasized the importance of building strong ties between the Nigerian Customs Service and the Kano community.

He emphasized the Service’s commitment to collaboration and constructive dialogue, and pledged to implement policies that would improve business processes and strengthen engagement with all stakeholders.

In addition to his interaction with stakeholders, the Controller General Adeniyi revealed that the Customs Service had made extensive plans to address the challenges of food scarcity and hardship in Kano. This includes the distribution of food items to the people of Kano.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Presidency has vehemently denied accusations of budget padding against Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, following claims made by Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central (PDP). 

Senator Ningi, representing the Northern Senators’ Forum, alleged in a BBC Hausa Service interview that the executive had inflated the 2024 budget by an additional N3 trillion, surpassing the approved amount. 

Contrary to Senator Ningi’s assertions, the Presidency, through a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that President Bola Tinubu had initially presented a N27.5 trillion budget to the National Assembly on November 29, 2023. 

The statement stated that the final budget passed by President Tinubu on January 1, 2024, amounted to N28.7 trillion, after the National Assembly exercised its appropriation powers to increase the proposed budget by N1.2 trillion. 

Dismissing Senator Ningi’s claims as baseless, the Presidency affirmed the importance of factual accuracy before making such serious allegations.