News

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, on his 83rd birthday today, August 17. 

General Babangida, popularly called IBB, was Nigeria’s military President from 1985 to 1993.

President Tinubu salutes IBB on this special occasion, noting his endeavours towards the nation’s development, especially in infrastructure and other areas, notably the completion of the Third Mainland Bridge, which at the time was the longest bridge in Africa.

The President acknowledges General Babangida’s role in shaping modern Nigeria and commends him for his services to the nation.

President Tinubu wishes the former head of state many more years in good health.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPC Ltd.) has called on the public, especially job seekers, to disregard rumours of employment slots for sale.

The company states that there is no iota of truth in the insinuations that it has employment slots on offer to anyone who wishes to buy, describing such antics as fraudsters who want to take advantage of unsuspecting applicants.

It cautions that as a responsible corporate entity, recruitment into the company is a straightforward process and does not involve the sale of slots or inducement of any kind.

It warns that anyone who pays money to anyone for any job in the company does so at his or her own risk.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, visited the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on Friday, August 16, 2024, to express gratitude for the Nigeria Customs Service’s support in trade facilitation and border security. 

Governor Zulum acknowledged the strategic importance of Borno State, which shares borders with three countries, and noted the need for collaboration to enhance security and trade.

“We are grateful for the dedication and assistance the Nigeria Customs Service has provided to Borno State.

Our borders with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger require robust management, and we are keen to strengthen our relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service to ensure the safety and prosperity of our state,” he said. 

Comptroller General Adeniyi appreciated the visit and reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to supporting Borno State.

“We appreciate the support we have received from Borno State in carrying out our core responsibilities. The Customs Service is committed to enhancing and facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring the protection of our borders,” he assured. 

The meeting concluded with Governor Zulum inviting the CGC to visit Borno State.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The World Bank has described Gombe State as a model for other states in Nigeria for its remarkable achievements in implementing numerous development projects and programmes. 

The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Dr Ndiame Diop, made the commendation during a courtesy visit to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the Gombe Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

Dr Diop, who appreciated the commitment of Gombe State to executing World Bank-supported projects across critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment, agriculture, and water resources, noted that Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s approach has not only accelerated development but has also demonstrated a clear example of effective governance and accountability in the utilization of funds.

Among the standout projects mentioned by the WB country director were the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, the Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP), the SPTAS and the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH), which he noted have significantly improved the well-being of citizens by enhancing infrastructure, increasing access to clean water, and boosting economic opportunities.

Dr Diop emphasized that Gombe’s commitment to these projects has set a high standard for other states in Nigeria, adding that the World Bank now sees the state as a successful model of partnership that effectively addresses local challenges while fostering sustainable growth and development.

Dr. Ndiame Diop, however, also pointed out areas where the state could further strengthen its efforts, especially as some of the ongoing projects are approaching completion.

 He emphasized the need for sustained momentum and strategic planning to ensure that the impact of these projects continues to be felt even after they wind down. 

He stressed that Gombe must take proactive steps to consolidate the gains already made by institutionalizing reforms and integrating them into the state’s development agenda. This, he noted, would ensure that the benefits of these programmes are not only sustained but scaled up for greater long-term impact. 

He assured that the World Bank remains committed to supporting Gombe State in these efforts and encouraging the government to explore new avenues for collaboration that would address emerging challenges and ensure the continuity of progress in key areas.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya acknowledged these observations in his remarks and reassured Dr. Diop that his administration is fully committed to restrategizing.

He expressed optimism that with continued partnership and innovation, Gombe State would maintain its developmental trajectory and deepen the successes achieved through ongoing and future projects.

He highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with international organizations like the World Bank in driving progress and providing much-needed services to the people of Gombe State in line with his Development Agenda. 

Governor Inuwa Yahaya emphasized that the state’s priorities are fully aligned with its development agenda, and Gombe remains committed to leveraging World Bank projects and initiatives from other development partners to achieve its goals. 

He pointed to the Network 11-100 project, which is being executed in collaboration with RAMP, the ACReSAL project and the SPTAS programme, as clear examples of the state’s success through its strong partnerships with the World Bank.

He reiterated that his government will remain focused on impactful projects that improve the quality of life for all citizens, especially in areas such as education, health, agriculture, infrastructure and human capital development.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Garba, has expressed concern over the increasing cases of culpable homicide resulting from fighting, stabbing with knives, drowning, and flood-related deaths in the state.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna, CP Garba noted that the alarming trend has resulted in significant loss of life, leaving families and communities devastated.

The police command has responded by increasing patrols and surveillance in high-risk areas and engaging with community leaders and stakeholders to address the root causes of these incidents.

CP Garba urged residents to exercise caution and avoid violent behavior in their daily interactions.

He stated the importance of parents and guardians counseling their children and wards on the dangers of engaging in violent behavior and the consequences of such actions.

He advised the public to avoid physical altercations, refrain from carrying dangerous weapons, and be mindful of their surroundings, especially in flooded areas.

“The Kano State Police Command is working tirelessly to address this issue and ensure public safety,” the statement said.

The police commissioner also encouraged anyone with information on such incidents to report to the nearest police station, noting that community cooperation is crucial in preventing loss of life and maintaining peace in the state.

By Anas Abbas

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on international media outlets to provide fair, accurate, and objective coverage of Nigeria.

Receiving a BBC delegation in his office on Thursday, August 15, Idris emphasized the importance of balanced reporting, highlighting both challenges and positive developments in the country.

Idris emphasized the importance of balanced and unbiased reporting and highlighted that Nigeria, like other countries, faces challenges. He also urged the international media to provide a complete and nuanced portrayal rather than focusing solely on negative aspects.

While acknowledging press freedom, Idris encouraged international media to showcase Nigeria’s progress and achievements. He commended the BBC’s expansion in Nigeria, including its Hausa Service studio relocation to Abuja, engaging 200 Nigerians.

Idris also appreciated the BBC’s capacity-building initiatives for public media journalists and requested similar support for private outlets.

BBC’s Director of Global News, Jonathan Munro, praised Nigeria’s strong reputation for the BBC, citing 30 million weekly visitors to their news services, making Nigeria their third-largest international audience.

By Anas Abbas

A devastating clash between farmers and herders in Kodomun, Demsa Local Government Area, Adamawa State, has left at least eight people dead and several others injured.

According to Suleiman Nguroje, Police Command PRO, a joint security team has been deployed to restore order in the area, but no arrests have been made yet.

This latest incident marks a recurring pattern of violence, resulting in significant loss of life, livestock, and property over the years.

The Daily Reality gathered that the crisis allegedly began with the murder of a youth in Kodomun by suspected herders, escalating tensions and spreading to neighboring villages, including Kudiri, Sabonlayi, Kwayine, and Gorogbakai.

In response, Demsa LGA Chairman Akham Jalo called for calm during an emergency meeting at the palace of Hama Batta, HRM Homun Alhamdu Gladstone Teneke. Jalo urged stakeholders to work towards a lasting solution to the persistent conflict.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Tinubu joins family, friends, and the people of Rivers State to celebrate the former governor on this momentous occasion.

The President salutes Dr. Odili, recalling his valiant strides in ensuring the infrastructural development of Rivers State, especially by connecting major parts of the state through durable roads and providing sustainable electricity through independent power projects.

The President acknowledges the landmark efforts of the founder of the PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Rivers State, in developing human capacity in health and education for the benefit of the present and future generations.

President Tinubu celebrates the statesman renowned for his unaffected humility and facility for mentoring and raising generations of leaders who remain at the fulcrum of impacting local, state and national development.

The President commends Dr. Odili for his service to the nation, patience, grace, and notable strength of will.President Tinubu prays for more years of good health, joy, and happiness for Dr. Odili and his family.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has implored African leaders to make more strategic and deliberate efforts in addressing the exodus of skills and talent from Africa.

Speaking at a dinner held in his honour at the People’s Palace in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, on Wednesday night, President Tinubu said research and development must be encouraged with the provision of appropriate rewards.

The President said: “Why are we complaining about healthcare problems if our doctors cannot have a home in our continent? If our nurses are faced with destitution, and if our judicial system is archaic?”

President Tinubu, who is on a three-day official visit, said development in Africa will begin when the continent starts to look inwards for solutions.

“Tribalism has no place in our nation or region. We have to strengthen the continent. Cultivate and maintain peace together and help one another.

“We have to develop our resources for our progress. Find solutions among ourselves and focus incisively on research and development, and reward those research and development programmes. We must bring out the results ourselves. We must not outsource them or sell them out.

“To the international organizations, we are partners. We will continue to be partners, but we must implement more than half of the results of the research established here. We have many youths to take care of. Millions yearning for progress,’’ the President said.

He thanked President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo for the invitation to visit Malabo.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini 

President Bola Tinubu and Equatorial Guinean President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo on Wednesday evening in Malabo signed an agreement on Gulf of Guinea Pipeline Project, further affirming partnership for mutual development.  

The agreement covered legislative and regulatory measures for the gas pipeline, establishment and operation, transit of natural gas, ownership of the gas pipeline, and general principles.  

In his remarks at the event, President Tinubu, who is on a three-day official visit to Equatorial Guinea, said the signing of the agreement will open up new opportunities for gas exploration and employment. 

The President stated that the two leaders had discussed issues related to the creation of employment, food security, multilateral relations, and conflict resolution mechanisms on the continent during a private meeting that preceded the signing of the agreement. 

“Concerning Africa, conflicts and conflict resolution were discussed. We discussed various areas of conflicts and what we can do to promote peace. 

“We talked about promotion of peace and stability in our countries, and growth and prosperity on our continent.  

“In the same way that Europe and America have kept themselves and found a solution for their conflicts, we have to look at both inadequate capital, industrialization efforts, research and development programmes, and enlighten our people, navigate our way through problems. 

“Instead of the crisis and conflicts that we see in the Republic of Congo, and others, we have to look inwards to solve problems ourselves,’’ the President said.  

President Tinubu said the discussion with the President of Equatorial Guinea also covered challenges of security, African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), and food security.  

“We are all going for it. Within Africa and the African Union, we have resolved that we will work together to make sure that the solution to many of our problems in Africa comes from within,’’ the President concluded. 

In his remarks, the President of Equatorial Guinea said bilateral relations with Nigeria over many years have been rewarding and stated the need to deepen cooperation across salient areas.  

President Mbasogo said Africa’s vision of having a permanent seat in the Security Council of the United Nations is vital for the development of the continent, affirming that Equatorial Guinea will work with Nigeria to realize the objective.  

The President of Equatorial Guinea said the signing of the agreement was strategic for Africa’s development. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar of Nigeria, and Mr. Simeon Oyono Esono, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Equatorial Guinea, also signed the agreement. 

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of State, Petroleum, Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, and Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim- Biu were present at the signing of the agreement.