Niger State

By Uzair Adam Imam

A deadly bandit attack occurred in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Niger State, leaving four people dead and 39 others kidnapped.

The attack took place in Kuduru, a town in Bwari Area Council of the FCT, as well as Garam and Azu, two communities in neighbouring Niger State.

According to a witnesses, the bandits had on Saturday, December 23, invaded Garam in Niger state, which is a five minute drive from Bwari in FCT, killing a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God RCCG, while kidnapping 13 others.

On Thursday December 28, the bandits struck Kuduru in FCT, which shares a boundary with Garam, and kidnapped 18 persons.

The following day, Friday, December 29, the bandits invaded Azu still in Niger state, killing three people and kidnapping eight others.

A resident of Garam, who identified herself as Mrs. Juliana said, “The bandits entered the wrong house, kidnapped two boys who later led them to the house of their target.

“When they got there, they kidnapped the entire family, but while leaving the house, they shot the man (their target), who is a pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God in the presence of his wife and their three children.”

As the bandits prepared to leave with their captives, the wife of the deceased pastor realized that she had left her six-month-old baby behind.

She bravely asked the bandits for permission to retrieve the child, and they agreed. One of the female bandits escorted her back to the house and stood guard while she picked up the baby.

“However, when the female bandit ran out of patience, she left the woman, joined the others and went with the other kidnapped persons who were 13 in number”, an eyewitness said.

Another eyewitness said the bandits made their way to the house of a military personnel, asking for his rifle and uniform from the wife.

“The wife told them that her husband is on duty. They, however, kidnapped two of his children,” she said.

The eyewitness added that 13 people were kidnapped during the attack, and that a five-year-old boy belonging to the murdered pastor was left behind by the bandits at the river because he was unable to cross it.

However, he was rescued by a local vigilance team who tracked the bandits.

This harrowing event has left the community traumatized and afraid for their safety.

By Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar

For the grammar ‘lords’, the title of this piece is itself ‘audacious’ and might be erroneously perceived as undiplomatic, aggressive, and forceful.

 However, those well-schooled in journalism and those gifted with wisdom would look at it with a  different lens. This essence provokes readership and ignites curiosity about a crucial matter that demands attention.

Within the context of governance and leadership, audacious attributes often translate to courage and boldness when confronting challenges and addressing key issues head-on in ways that could better the lots of ordinary citizens.

This is in the DNA of all serious-governance-ready leaders who are always seen addressing the unaddressed and championing the cause of their people with unwavering determination.

Governor Bago’s recent statement aligns with these when he said that Niger State also deserves a 13% derivation formula that oil-producing states are being given monthly.

The governor stated this when the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Tijjani Aliyu Ahmed, led other principal officials of the commission on a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, Minna, made headlines on various media platforms. This is an indication that such is a rare call, yet assertive.

A straightforward demand that those who governed the Power State(Niger State) before Bago couldn’t make, probably due to the ‘overwhelming’  vastness of the responsibilities of governance or because of the perceived unimportance attached to such kind of demand.

Yet, in this writer’s good knowledge, the plank of leadership embodies enormous responsibilities, a firm resolve to serve the people and a better platform for a powerful voice for the voiceless everyday citizens.

How, then, could a genuine demand that would better the lots of the electorates who stood to vote for their leaders skip the memories of successive governments in the state? 

This demand is indicative of the understanding of Niger State’s potentials and its vast contributions to Nigeria’s economy.

Of truth, during the last general governorship elections, my candidate was Khadijah Abdullahi-Iya (Audu Kwangila Bida) of the opposition All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), a symbol of motherhood. Khadijah Abdullahi Iya, a daughter of the first indigenous contractor in Northern Nigeria (Late Audu Kwangila Bida), also came prepared; toured all the nooks and crannies of the 25 local government areas of Niger State to campaign responsibly within the ambit of the electoral law.

Nonetheless, options of multiple choices are the cornerstone upon which democracy is hewn. The same democracy spoke, and Governor Bago now holds the reins. And it’s crucial to understand that he is the governor for all, and sincere support, prayers, and cooperation from all Nigerlites are essential for the success of the New Niger Agenda.

This is why no person of good conscience could agree less with Governor Bago, given the numerous contributions of the hydroelectric dams. From Power Supply, which power houses, businesses and institutions.

This call, when heeded and implemented, can enhance the infrastructural development of the host communities around dams and spur economic empowerment through the support of local businesses in the communities that would also translate to the economic well-being of the nation.

Governor Umar Bago’s demand echoes the need to ensure that host communities benefit substantially from the abovementioned benefits and that the people directly affected by the power production are active players in the nation’s progress.

As a matter of importance, in championing this cause, our national assembly members from Niger State and across Northern Nigeria should work assiduously with their fellow lawmakers and prove their mettle of strategic lobbying and networks to make this practicable. Sadly, the majority of the citizens do not know the enormous economic contributions of the hydroelectric dams to the country, which should warrant fair compensation through the 13% derivation.

In closing, Governor Bago’s demand is not only a call for more resources. Instead, it is a call for fairness and to recognise the significant roles that Hydroelectric power-producing states, notably Niger State, play in our nation’s economic growth and development.

 Therefore, in good conscience, whether a Nigerlite or not, we need to rally around Governor Bago’s cause because the demand for equity is lawful and a stride towards a more balanced and prosperous nation.

Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar writes from Minna, the Niger State capital and can be reached via muhammadcares4u@gmail.com.

Your Excellency Sir,  

We, the Niger State First Class Graduates (NSFCG), extend our warm regards and seek your invaluable support for employment opportunities and scholarships to further our education. This appeal is made with great respect and the utmost desire to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of Niger State under your leadership.

It is with great pride and inspiration that I assume the role of the pioneer chairman of NSFCG, especially during a time when you have ascended to the esteemed position as one of the youngest governors in Nigeria. This convergence is both emotional and motivational, serving as a beacon of hope for young intellectuals of Niger State like us, who aspire to follow in your footsteps with the necessary guidance, mentorship, and empowerment from our esteemed leaders. Congratulations on your well-deserved election and inauguration as the Executive Governor of Niger State. We extend our best wishes and prayers for your success in the formidable tasks of leadership and governance guided by divine wisdom. 

The NSFCG comprises First Class Graduates who hail from various universities and are proud indigenes of Niger State. Our membership spans nearly all of the 25 Local Government Areas, united by a common goal – to fulfil the high expectations society places on those who achieve the pinnacle of academic excellence through hard work, exemplary character, sacrifice, determination, and brilliance. As role models, we understand the responsibility that accompanies our achievements, and we aspire to make positive contributions to our society, guided by the values we hold dear. 

We express our concern that the absence of support for some of us, despite our exceptional merits and academic achievements, may inadvertently diminish the inspiration, value, and faith in education, determination, and hard work that our society needs. It is our belief that individuals like us should not be left without the necessary support but rather should be empowered to serve as beacons of excellence, motivating others to follow in our footsteps. 

Recognizing the need to address this disparity and utilize our potential for the betterment of Niger State, the NSFCG has taken the initiative to raise awareness about our current predicament. We are keenly aware of the profound impact we could make in contributing to the growth and development of our state, inspiring the public to remain steadfast in their pursuit of education, lofty aspirations, and unwavering determination. 

In this context, we note the remarkable strides made by other states, such as Kano under the leadership of Former Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who championed human capital development through substantial investments in foreign scholarships for first-class graduates, alongside Governor Nasir Elrufa’i of Kaduna State who witnessed infrastructural advancements through championing Urban Renewal policy and Kashim Ibrahim Fellowship (KIF) for most brilliant and outstanding graduates in the state. Permit me, Your Excellency Sir, to say that it is this visionary approach that distinguishes leaders and leaves an indelible mark on society. 

We also commend the Talba Program, an initiative that provided gainful employment for numerous unemployed youths in Niger State, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment and transformation for beneficiaries and their families alike. 

Your Excellency Sir, as esteemed leaders with a genuine passion for the betterment of our state, we appeal for the following: 

1. Consideration for employment opportunities within the Niger State Government for the approximately 90+ first-class graduates hailing from almost all of the 25 LGAs who are currently unemployed. Our collective skill set can contribute to filling existing job vacancies and enhancing the effectiveness of newly established ministries. 

2. Financial support or scholarships to facilitate our further education within Nigeria or abroad, thereby enabling us to acquire knowledge and expertise that can be channelled back to benefit our state. 

3. Mentorship and guidance from accomplished professionals, enabling us to evolve into exemplary citizens of whom Niger State can be justifiably proud. We aspire to possess the high level of skills and competency necessary to add significant value to our state and extend our positive impact beyond its borders. 

Your Excellency Sir, we hold steadfast belief in your dedication to uplift the youth, enhance human and infrastructural development, and curtail the challenges of crime and insecurity. By considering our appeal, you will not only empower a group of exceptional individuals but also sow the seeds for a more prosperous and vibrant future for Niger State and its citizens. 

With profound respect and anticipation, we remain committed to working diligently for the betterment of our beloved state.

Yours sincerely, 

Mukhtar Nasir, CPM        

Chairman, Niger State First-Class Graduates (NSFCG). He can be reached via nigerstatefcg@gmail.com.

By Muhammadu Sabiu

Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, witnessed a devastating boat accident on Sunday, leaving 24 lives tragically lost and many more in distress. 

Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago expressed his profound shock at the incident and has since called for immediate safety measures. 

The accident occurred between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. in communities situated between Jebba and the Kainji dam. Most of the victims were women and children.

Over 30 individuals have been rescued so far, thanks to the combined efforts of the marine police, local divers, and the Niger State Emergency Management Agency. 

Governor Bago, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, conveyed his deep condolences to the affected families.

He described the incident as “terrible and undesirable” and prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in Aljannah Firdausi. 

Expressing his concern, Governor Bago called for the mandatory use of life jackets by anyone boarding a boat in the state.

He strongly condemned overcrowding on boats, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to safety guidelines. The exact number of passengers on the ill-fated boat is still unclear, but reports suggest that many were not wearing life jackets, which may have contributed to the tragedy. 

The Chairman of Mokwa Local Government Area, Jibrim Muregi, confirmed the ongoing efforts by divers to rescue victims and recover more bodies from the scene.

Meanwhile, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, led by Alhaji Salihu Garba, is collaborating closely with local authorities and divers in search, rescue, and recovery operations. 

As the rescue operation continues, the affected communities are plunged into mourning, with residents anxiously searching for their missing loved ones.

The cause of the boat mishap remains unknown, underscoring the urgency of improving safety measures and enforcing strict compliance with regulations governing water transportation in 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 Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar

The term ‘University’ has its roots from the Latin word ‘universitas’, which translates to ‘the whole’ or ‘the totality’. This is said to have originated from medieval Europe where groups of scholars came together to form communities dedicated to education and research.
In essence, universities of good standing, regardless of ownership (public or private) are specialized spaces for universal education that have established traditions of research and innovations aimed at tackling societal issues. Also, these are the fundamental reasons why they are referred to as such.

Newgate University, Minna (NUM) can be counted as one of the best academic institutions that aim to promote qualitative education. This can be justified precisely through the NUM’s rigorous curriculum, exceptional faculty members who are experts in their respective fields with committed culture of inquiry that pushes the boundaries of knowledge.

NUM – the Newgate University, Minna, was licensed by the National Universities’ Commission (NUC) in April, 2022 as the first private university in Minna, the Niger State capital, with a reputation of an orientation that is focused around student-centered learning to meet the needs and interests of students within reasonable grounds.
At the heart of the university’s tradition is a unique combination of research exploration and academic excellence, expressed through its motto ‘explore to excel’. Also, Newgate University, Minna entices students to embark on a splendid journey of self-discovery by presenting them with a diverse range of academic programs that are tailored to their individual passions and interests.

However, the university’s philosophy of exploration extends beyond academics to encompass a comprehensive range of extracurricular activities, such as community service, practical experience, among others that aid students in expanding their horizons and discovering their true potential.

Newgate has distinctive strategies and academic culture exemplified by its provision of four (4) distinct teaching and learning packages to its students: cognitive, digital, interpersonal and intrapersonal study packages. The cognitive package being offered by Newgate University instills in its students, the ability to devise innovative solutions to emerging challenges in their respective fields of study. Meanwhile, the digital component of the university’s curriculum ensures that students become responsive digital citizens, capable of keeping pace with the ever-evolving digital landscape. To enhance comprehension and facilitate recall, the university employs cloud-based teaching and learning techniques such as virtual reality, streamed lectures and relevant practical videos.
At NUM, both the intra and interpersonal components of the study packages are given key attention, with emphasis on orientation and training that will equip students to assume leadership and negotiation roles, while instilling in them qualities of service, passion, adaptability and empathy. These components are intentionally designed to meet the growing global need for hard and soft skills which are crucial for employability.

The impact of Newgate University’s distinctive and impressive strategies to university education extends beyond the classrooms, to equipping students to become leaders in their communities and in societies at large. By providing a holistic university experience that emphasizes on critical thinking, creativity, innovation and problem-solving, NUM proves that, it can be a model for other institutions to emulate.

Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar lives and writes from Minna, the Niger State capital and can be reached on muhammadcares4u@gmail.com

By Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar

Alain Touraine- a French sociologist, in clarifying what democracy entails, concludes that it is a ‘free choice of leaders by the people’. Using Touraine’s view as an instance, the ground is slim for an argument (if any at all) that democracy is not the ideal form of government, considering its enormous opportunities for choice.

But, electorates’ hopes that any individual chosen for an elective office can deliver dividends of democracy in line with their needs and expectations have been repeatedly dashed by the existence of poor governance and misrepresentations evident from records of poor delivery of dividends of democracy by most occupants of such offices.

This means that free choice of leaders is not enough unless they translate to commensurable desired developments for the electorates, mainly through the provision of basic needs of life, quality and adequate infrastructures, economic growth and so on.

It’s disheartening that mostly, those elected get carried away by the regalia of political power; become sleepy on the duty of governance and disappointingly fail to show desired response abilities that come with such offices across all levels from the Presidency to ward councillorships. As evidence, this is seen in their inconsistent policies formulations, policies contradictions, ill-fated policies deviations and promises without fulfilment.

Away from that, while this piece is quick to accuse elected officials for lack of sincere will and woeful performances while in office, the electorates own the larger portion of the blame for their continued inclination to myopic choices of leaders, as well as their acceptance for continued manipulation by ill-minded politicians who share monies and other baits and find their way to elective office.

 It’s a shocker, yet a reality, that the orientation of a typical Nigerian voter, most of whom are ignorant, swims in how financially loaded and lavishing is a political candidate. Little wonder, a serving minister of the Federal Republic, in a purported viral video, boasted as saying (in Hausa), ‘…we have enough money and resources and will use them to get what we want…’ The minister under reference implied votes buying.

He understands very well that the psyche of Nigerian voters is irresistible to politicians’ short-term flashing generosity that is mostly bankrolled by proceeds of corruption, which even Mr Minister under reference could hardly claim innocence.

The electorates should understand that commercialisation of politics carries underlying undesirable outcomes and is so irrational to complain of misgovernance and lack of significant development as is being witnessed. With few exceptions, evidence of decayed infrastructures, misgovernance and misrepresentation abound in many states and constituencies, respectively.

Niger State, for example, since 1999, when democracy was birthed, is still beset with serious underdevelopment, insignificant modern infrastructure, and zero industrialisation across its 25 local government areas. In spite of her strategic location with large federally connected road networks, there is yet very insignificant federal attention and presence.

It’s over 76,000 square kilometres landmass are largely arable, fertile and endowed with mineral resources, but the living condition of her population is not exalted. Outside the state civil service, which only accommodates very few individuals, the situation of most Nigerlites is pitiable.

In fact, the experience of a typical Nigerlite since democracy, from one dispensation to the other, is either that of a governor who was been ‘misinformed/lied to’ by certain appointees about projects not carried out because of inadequate monitoring, non-interest for feedbacks with little demand for accountability (if any) from such ‘trusted’ appointees; or of a governor who used oratorical prowess to his advantage rather than altruistic; or even of a governor who is presumed disposed to nepotism and ‘emi-lokan’ tendencies.  

In the enlightened view of this piece, whether these assumptions are perceived or real, they are enough grounds for legitimate discontent by Nigerlites, having witnessed elements of good governance and effective public service delivery from certain state governments while no such or their equals are replicated in Niger state for 23 years of democracy and still counting.

So, it’s wise to conclude that even in a democracy, the choice is not enough; the best choice is rather the determinant for good governance and satisfactory delivery of dividends of democracy, as seen in Governor Umara Zulum of Borno State.  It’s also wiser to understand as Nigerlites that we can only determine the best choice for Minna Government House in 2023 when we assess candidates using some preconditions as follows:    

Character excellence: Character is an observable behaviour reflective an individual’s public conduct. A person who has a great worth of character shows self-discipline, integrity, ennobles candour and accountability. It also embodies the spirit to accommodate divergent views and public criticisms because they are critical to the makeup of a liberal democracy. Thus, those candidates who are easily allergic to views and public opinions do not deserve to be governor of Niger State.

Additionally, the seat of governance is characterised by multiple broad remits that often have timelines if dividends of democracy are to be adequately delivered, as is the case in Borno State; therefore, this best choice must be he/she who has a forward-looking and goal-setting spirit with the nerve to follow them through to reality. This means Competence and capacity.

In contradiction to the likely unrefined thinking of those vying to become governor of Niger State, it is much more than travelling with numerous convoys, irresponsible show of temporal political power and reckless spending of taxpayers’ monies.

Noteworthy, to identify this best choice with ease, Nigerlites must look at the antecedents of all governorship candidates from their character, an exhibition of competence and capacity, and employment of labour (of Nigerlites). Study their various social and economic projects of the past, considering the resources at their disposals, which must have been born with peoples’ needs

As a result, we must decouple ourselves from shallow assessments of these candidates’ antecedents and use clear conscience beyond party leanings for valid judgements in order to determine the best choice for the Niger State governorship seat.

Any candidate (male or female) who possesses these thorough assessments in the excellence of character, competence/capacity and antecedent is a governorship candidate with substance and, therefore, most deserving of our mandates to spearhead the affairs of the state from the 29^th  of May,  2023.

Muhammad Danjuma Abubakar, a concerned Nigerlite, lives in Minna, Niger State Capital and can be reached via muhammadcares4u@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

Unknown shooters, also suspected to be kidnappers, have gunned down three police officers and a commercial motorcyclist Thursday in Suleja, Niger State.

The incident was said to have occurred around 11 pm on Thursday, May 12, 2022.

Daily Trust reported that the policemen were reportedly responding to a distress call when they were ambushed near a place called Old Barracks.

According to a source, “they were ambushed by the gunmen, who seemed to be expecting their arrival.” 

The Suleja Council Chairman, Abdullahi Shuaibu Maje, has confirmed the incident.

He added that “about three persons, including a vigilante member, survived the attack.”

The Daily Reality learned that the victims were currently being treated at a hospital in the area.

DSP Wasiu Abiodun, the Police spokesperson in the state, could not be reached for comment.

By Mallam Musbabu Magayaki

I took this picture after seeing some unidentified gunmen not far away from us on Monday, April 25th, 2022, while plying the dreadful Birnin Gwari-Kagara and Kontagora roads. The road is full of uncertainty about the unavoidable fear of bandits. Fortunately, we arrived home safely (glory to God). Nonetheless, our hearts’ continued to rewind the dangerous nature of the road in a flashback format.

However, after spending a horrendous one-hour journey that looked like an eternity waiting for help, we were escorted by vigilantes and police officers stationed at Udawa-Buruku villages, particularly for travellers, with a fare of N1000 for each car. They would arrange all the cars in a straight line after collecting the charge of N1000 from each car’s driver for him to be part of the convoy. 

As we began the terrifying 30-km journey, the security operatives operating on the road arrived. They told us glad tiding of seizing three bandits’ motorcycles (TVS-like), which they distributed to three groups as a spoil of war: one for the vigilantes, one for the military personnel, and one for the police officers.

While plying, everyone was anxious and confused, saying various forms of supplications for fear of bandits’ retaliatory attacks. But, thank God, despite the dangerous nature of the short journey through the almost impenetrable bushy forest, we arrived safely in Buruku.

We thanked God and hailed the vigilantes who risked their lives to save us from any bandits’ attacks that might have come at us. 

I recommend that the Kaduna and Niger state governments for empowering those vigilantes in their regions with modern weapons. They are genuinely trying, without compromise, to safeguard the lives of innocent travellers. 

Mallam Musbabu Magayaki wrote from Sabob Fegi, Azare.

By Nasidi ibrahim Saaal

Niger State High Court has awarded N1 billion damages against the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

The sum is awarded against the organisations over the blockade of some roads in September 2021. The members had blocked Bida-Lambata, Bida-Minna and Lambata-Minna Roads, all in Niger State.

Consequently, a non-governmental organisation, NGO, Dan Amajiri Initiative, filed a case against the organisations that powered the blockage of the roads, protesting over the deplorable condition of the roads and claiming damages.

The group said that the damages were for the inconveniences to the lives of the general public, especially road users, caused by the gridlock that lasted for about three days on the aforementioned roads.

In his judgment, Justice Abdullahi Mika’ilu of the Niger State High Court II ordered the award of N500 million for exemplary damage and another N500 million for economic hardship against the road transport workers.

However, the judge of the court struck out the fourth to the sixth respondent; the Niger State government, the governor, and the attorney-general of the state, respectively, joined in the case.