News

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The Nigerian Army said Monday that it had rescued Mary Nkeki, a 27-year-old Chibok girl, in the Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno. 

Recall that insurgents of Boko Haram kidnapped Nkeki and more than 200 other students from the Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok in 2014. 

The Operation Hadin Kai Theatre Commander, Maj.-Gen. Gold Chibuisi, made this statement on Monday in Maiduguri upon the delivery of the girl to the Borno Ministry of Women Affairs. 

He noted that on August 14 in Dikwa, soldiers from the 81 Task Force Battalion freed Nkeki, who had serial number 55 on the list of the kidnapped Chibok girls. 

“While in captivity, she was forcefully married to one Adam, a Boko Haram terrorist fighter. 

“Since her rescue, she has undergone thorough medical examination in our medical facility. 

“Equally, she has been adequately resuscitated and would be handed over to Borno State Government for further administration,” he said. 

Chibuisi reaffirmed the military’s commitment to maintaining security in the region’s north and east while bringing about sustainable peace. 

Nkeki described her experience since being kidnapped in 2014 to reporters as being filled with pain, recounting that she and her husband managed to flee throughout the night and were found by a military patrol squad. She said she had left behind two other Chibok girls. 

By Ahmad Deedat Zakari

The Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, has reduced the school fees of higher institutions in the state.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Muhammad Shehu Molash, made the development known in a press release on Monday.

According to the CPS, the governor has announced the downward review of the current fees in state-owned tertiary institutions .

The spokesperson cited welfarism and the interest of the populace as the reason for the governor’s decision.

The administration of the former Governor of the State, Mal. Nasir El-rufai, had hiked school feels of state-owned institutions.

The new administration of Governor Uba Sani has decreased the school feels by 30%.

Below is the new school fees of higher institutions in the state:

a) Kaduna State University – Current Fee: N150,000 – Reduction (%): 30% – New Fee: N105,000

b) Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic – Current Fee: N100,000 – Reduction (%): 50% – New Fee: N50,000

c) College of Education, Gidan Waya – Current Fee: N75,000 – Reduction (%): 50% – New Fee: N37,500

d) Shehu Idris College of Health Sciences & Technology, Makarfi •HND Courses – Current Fee: N100,000 – Reduction (%): 30% -New Fee: N70.000 •ND Courses – Current Fee: N75,000 – Reduction (%): 30% – New Fee: N52,000

e) Kaduna State College of Nursing – Current Fee: N100,000 – Reduction (%): 30% – New Fee: N70,000

By Uzair Adam Imam

Rufai Sani Hanga, the Kano Central senator, pledged to provide scholarships for students to study abroad.

The senator said the scholarship for the 200 students of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), which he paid recently, was just one of the many opportunities awaiting not only students but all women and youth in his constituency.

He added that he would try hard to ensure more investment in education and empowerment for women and youth for the betterment of society.

Hanga disclosed this Wednesday at an event that converged the 200 sponsored students of BUK in his office in Tokarawa, Hadejia Road, Kano, to receive their awarding letters.

It can be recalled that Senator Hanga had paid the registration fees of 200 BUK students as a response to the painful outcry by the students as a result of a hike in the registration fee.

I responded to the painful outcry of students – Hanga

Senator Hanga said his sponsorship of the 200 BUK students was a response to the uproar generated by the increment in registration fees by the university management.

He said he came to the rescue of the students due to a call by Malam Aisar Fagge, Malam Salihu Sule Khalid, Malam Abubakar Tijjani Ibrahim and Alhaji Musa Nuhu Yankaba.

“This (scholarship) is in response to the outcry generated by the registration fee increment in Bayero University, Kano, which threatens the progress of many students in the university.

He added, “Malam Aisar, Abubakar, Salihu and Alhaji Musa were the ones who called me and advised that I should come to the aid of these students. I really commend them and the other members of my scholarship committee.

“While I consider this a quick intervention, I want to stress that more programs that target the upliftment and empowerment of our people are on the pipeline, in sha Allah,” he added.

Hanga commended the scholarship committee, adding, “I wish to advise the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity.”

We tasked ourselves for this rescue mission considering the unfavourable economic situation in Nigeria

Malam Aisar who is also a lecturer at the Department of Mass Communication, Kano State Polytechnic said they were into this rescue mission because of the unfavourable economic situation in the country and understood many students could not afford to pay for their school fees.

He said, “I have been in the teaching profession and know very well how students struggle to pay 20 or 30 thousand naira as their registration fee.

“Some students mostly go to radio stations to beg people. So, given that now there was an increment in registration fees, I feared many would have no other option than to drop their studies.”

It gladdened me when my mother thanked me for selfless service to humanity – Aisar

The communication scholar also added that it excited him and nearly reduced him to tears when his mother called to thank him for his selfless service to humanity.

“Although I was very excited looking at the happy faces of these promising students, there was nothing more exciting than the moment when my mother called to thank me.

“My mother, Hajiya, was in a tricycle when she heard the other two passengers talking about the matter, thanking Senator Hanga for rescuing their children.”

Students narrate tribulations, thank Hanga

“I reckoned without a hike in the registration fee. When I heard about it, my mind was awfully heavy as I knew I couldn’t afford it,” recalled a 400-level student of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), with a beaming smile on his face.

The student said a new hope had been rekindled in him by the scholarship he got from Senator Rufai Sani Hanga.

Another student, Abdurrahman Kabir Yunus, said the news of the hike in registration fees paralysed him.

He said, “But Senator Hanga wiped up my tears. And what he did was a lesson to me as I really feel indebted.”

Sham’una Rabi’u from Warawa Local Government said it was underestimating to describe how happy he was.

Rabi’u said, “I am very happy to be one of the beneficiaries of this scholarship. I couldn’t thank Senator Hanga enough.”

By Ukasha Rabiu Magama

The Bauchi state government has assured a speedy renovation of some parts of the specialist hospital gutted recently by fire.

The development came when the state’s Commissioner of Health, Dr Adamu Umar Sambo, visited the hospital on Saturday.

The commissioner, who went there to see the nature of the work in the hospital, encouraged the workers to continue saving the lives of the people of Bauchi state with no hesitation.

Promising the work, the commissioner also assures the replacement of all burnt equipment in the hospital and does the needful to adjust the hospital bill and make it affordable to Bauchi citizens.

He further commended the effort of the workers for their contribution to improving the lives of Bauchi citizens. He pledged to continue supporting the workers best of his ability to bring the desired output to the state.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has orchestrated a remarkable act of support, gifting essential relief materials to 23,000 individuals deeply impacted by the 2022 flood that swept through Niger. 

Stepping onto the stage of kindness, Mustapha Ahmed, the director general of NEMA, emphasised this noble initiative during the launch of the distribution event in Minna, Niger State’s capital, on Saturday. 

Abubakar Yusuf, Distribution Supervisor, stood in the stead of Mr. Ahmed, underscoring the heart behind this endeavour. 

This intervention emerges as a haven for not just farmers who bore the brunt of the 2022 flood but also for the most vulnerable among the victims, extending a compassionate touch to alleviate the pangs of the disaster’s aftermath. 

Ahmed, with a spirit of unity, recalled the poignant chapters of the 2022 flood that swept across the nation, leaving no corner unshaken and no heart untouched. 

In response, a symphony of care has been orchestrated, composed of sewing and grinding machines, bags brimming with rice, beans, and sorghum, as well as life’s essential companions: vegetable oil, salt, tomato paste sachets, and seasoning. 

The items also include mosquito nets to guard against sleepless nights, rubber mats to create a barrier against discomfort, and blankets to wrap hope in warmth.

By Muhamamad Suleiman Yobe

Jigawa state task force on petroleum products says it will reveal the identity of filling stations found tempering with their litres to short-charge consumers.

The chairman of the task force, Alhaji Alhassan Muhammad, gave the warning when members of the committee visited some filling stations in Gumel, Jahun and Kiyawa local government areas.

He also warned that any filling station that does not possess Sarafin Gauge would be sanctioned.

He said a number of filling stations visited by the committee have no standard measuring gauge.

Alhaji Alhassan Muhammad advised marketers to always check their litres before dispensing fuel to consumers.

The chairmen said that from the inception of the task force to date, more than 30 filling stations have been warned for engaging in various unwholesome activities.

He commended some marketers in Hadejia and Gumel for possessing Sarafin gauge and maintaining proper litres in their filling stations.

By Muhammadu Sabiu

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has disclosed that Nigeria is grappling with an escalating humanitarian crisis, with over 3.5 million individuals internally displaced due to ongoing crises.

The data sheds light on the dire situation faced by countless Nigerians who have been uprooted from their homes and communities.

The heart-wrenching effects of the insurgency in the northeast have been acutely felt in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) states.

According to the Aid Worker Security Database, the insurgency has exacted a heavy toll, resulting in the tragic deaths of 37 aid workers since 2016.

Additionally, 24 aid workers have been wounded, and 34 others have been kidnapped.

This sobering statistic serves as a sombre reminder of the challenges faced by those working tirelessly to provide assistance to those in need.

The World Humanitarian Day commemoration in Abuja took on a poignant tone this year as stakeholders from the humanitarian sector joined forces for a road walk.

At the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Nasir Sani Gwarzo, addressed the gathering.

He emphasised the significance of this year’s theme, #NoMatterWhat, which encapsulates the unwavering dedication of humanitarians to extend life-saving aid to individuals, regardless of their identity or geographical location.

The event not only brought attention to the pressing issues at hand but also highlighted the collective commitment of those in the humanitarian sector to alleviate the suffering of affected communities.

As Nigeria navigates these turbulent times, the rallying cry of #NoMatterWhat serves as a reminder that compassion and assistance remain steadfast even in the face of adversity.

By Muhammad Suleiman Yobe.

Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has approved the payment of local government pensioners across the 17 local government councils of the state.

This is contained in a state-issued to The Daily Reality by the Governor’s Director General Press and Media Affairs Mamman

 Mohammed.

The governor approved the sum of Six Hundred and sixty-seven Million, forty-five thousand, four hundred and forty-one Naira, twenty-two kobo (N667,045,441.22) for payment of the 475 local government pensioners.

Governor Buni gave the approval after the screening and verification of the Pensioners in the local government councils.

“The Committee has verified a total of 475 beneficiaries and hereby attach lists of beneficiaries and summary according to local government areas for both living and deceased Pensioners”, the approval reads.

This is in continuation of Governor Buni’s efforts to settle outstanding pensions owed to retired local government employees.

By Isah Miqdad

The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, has approved the appointment of Naufal Ahmed as Director General (ICT Directorate).

The appointment, which is with effect from 14th August 2023, is based on the conviction that Mr Naufal will serve faithfully, diligently, and in the best interest of the service.

As the visionary founder of the esteemed Kirkira Innovation Hub, Naufal has pioneered the establishment of the first-ever technology hub in the region. This groundbreaking initiative has served as a transformative force, equipping countless young individuals with vital technological skills and providing them with a platform to thrive.

Naufal’s remarkable career as a tech ecosystem builder has been nothing short of extraordinary. With an unwavering passion for innovation and youth empowerment, his impact on the tech landscape of Katsina and Nigeria at large is undeniable.

He has been a sought-after speaker and organiser at numerous conferences across Katsina and the country, sharing his insights and inspiring others to embrace innovation.

In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Naufal has received numerous accolades, including being named among the Opportunities Hub’s 100 Most Influential Youths for his significant contributions to youth development and entrepreneurship.

By Muhammad Muzdaleefa

The resurgence of military coups is thwarting Africa’s democratic journey. The recent coup d’état in Niger, which saw the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum by the military, has not only shaken the stability of the country but has also laid bare the divisions and weaknesses within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). It has also exposed a wide cleavage between citizens of member countries and their governments on ECOWAS policy on Niger. 

As far as one can read the mood without the aid of a proper poll, support for military action against Niger would probably be less than 10 per cent across the region. In Niger, news footage suggests that the public is more solidly against ECOWAS military intervention. Somewhat or otherwise, the mainstream media and social media comments show deep scepticism about ECOWAS’ direction and intentions. Many, if not most, commentators believe that the West, especially France and the US, are behind the ECOWAS drive towards a military solution in Niger.

This has led to resentment, especially in the Francophone countries, where the citizens point out that ECOWAS has been silent at draconian French exploitation of their resources continuing long after independence.

One of the glaring weaknesses exhibited by ECOWAS in response to the Niger coup is its lack of unity and consistency among member states.

While some countries strongly condemned the coup and called for a swift return to civilian rule, others remained relatively silent, seemingly hesitant to take a decisive stance. This lack of a united front weakens the regional body’s influence and diminishes its ability to address such crises effectively.

Another aspect that has been brought to the forefront is ECOWAS’s flawed diplomatic approach. Despite constituting a mediation committee to engage with the coup leaders and negotiate a resolution, ECOWAS failed to halt the coup or achieve a viable solution. The committee’s lack of leverage and the limited consequences the perpetrator’s face have raised questions about the efficacy of diplomatic efforts and the regional body’s influence over military leaders.

ECOWAS has often resorted to imposing economic sanctions to exert pressure and resolve political crises. However, the effectiveness of such measures in addressing coups has been questionable. The reliance on economic sanctions has a limited impact, particularly in countries with weak economies and high poverty levels like Niger. 

The recent example of Mali, where sanctions failed to bring about meaningful change after a military coup, highlights the need a more comprehensive and proactive approach by ECOWAS. The situation has become even grimmer, with Russia increasingly stepping in to provide short-term assistance to cushion the effects of the sanctions against coup countries, which appear to have exchanged the influence of France with that of Russia.

What is worse is the fact that the Niger crisis has also highlighted ECOWAS’s inability to identify and address underlying issues that lead to political instability. This failure to take pre-emptive measures further exposes weaknesses within the organisation. Since ECOWAS gave an ultimatum to Niger, citizens in ECOWAS countries have voiced their disapproval against any military action, mainly because ECOWAS lacks the moral authority to send troops into Niger.

Many commentators have pointed out failure within member countries as a significant contributing factor undermining ECOWAS’s intentions. Some West African governments are dynasties, flawed elections taint others, while some have repressed their countries’ media and opposition parties. 

What principles does an ECOWAS military intervention in Niger seek to establish, and are they all practised in the countries that will impose them by force of arms in Niger? If democracy is essential to ECOWAS, it has to ensure that the complete panoply of democratic principles is firmly in place in all member countries. It cannot pick and choose. Therefore, to safeguard democracy, ECOWAS should invest more proactively in conflict prevention mechanisms, addressing socio-economic disparities, and promoting good governance across member states. 

Timely intervention in electoral processes, strengthening democratic institutions, and promoting dialogue are crucial steps towards avoiding crises before they occur. In addition, ECOWAS must develop a robust apparatus to communicate with citizens across the entire subcontinent and carry out programmes that promote dialogue between citizens and between citizens and governments. 

Does public opposition to military action signal a higher tolerance for military coups in West Africa? That is a difficult question, but there is no doubt that people have generally become disenchanted with the Western democratic model, given that poverty and lack of opportunity continue to be entrenched. At the same time, politicians are seen as opportunists who are in it for themselves. However, none of this can be interpreted to mean that people in West Africa prefer military regimes.

Significantly, however, the coup in Niger has exposed the leadership vacuum within ECOWAS. While the organisation has made progress in promoting regional integration and economic development, its political leadership role has been less pronounced. ECOWAS needs robust leadership capable of decisive action in times of crisis, backed by a clear framework and mechanisms that discourage power grabs and protect democratic systems.

The coup in Niger has exposed the weaknesses, divisions, and inconsistencies within ECOWAS. The regional body’s lack of unity, ineffective diplomacy, reliance on economic sanctions, inadequate pre-emptive measures, and leadership vacuum have hindered its ability to respond effectively to political instability. The regional body’s response to the coup has showcased its challenges in effectively addressing political crises, highlighting the need for a more cohesive and proactive approach to preserving democracy in the region.

To strengthen ECOWAS and protect democracy in the region, there is an urgent need for member states to forge a unified front, strengthen conflict prevention mechanisms, explore diplomatic alternatives, and foster strong leadership committed to preserving democratic values. Without addressing these fundamental issues, the fragile democratic gains achieved in West Africa may remain at risk, allowing further regional divisions and challenges to promote peace and stability.

Muzdaleefa wrote from Kaduna via mohammedadamu736@gmail.com.