Author: Our Correspondent

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

The Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Bashiru Gegu, on Thursday in Lokoja, said the state government has taken a significant step towards developing its solid minerals sector, with the acquisition of 30 minerals titles spread across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state.

The commissioner disclosed this at the grand finale of the 2025 Kogi State Nigeria Union of Journalists Press Week, themed “Kogi State Solid Minerals: How Journalists Can Drive Development.”

Gegu, the Chairman of the occasion, said the move was part of the government’s efforts to boost revenue and drive economic growth.

Gegu, represented by Abdulsalam Hudu, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, emphasised that Kogi State is richly endowed with solid minerals such as iron ore, limestone, coal, gold, and tantalite, but the sector has remained largely untapped.

“It is important to note that Gov. Ododo’s efforts increased mineral titles from the existing 15 to 30 across the state.

“The acquisition of the minerals titles is a result of the relentless efforts of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo to shore up the revenue base of the state.

“High grade Excavators, loaders, and dump trucks help us compete with mining companies,” he said.

He stressed that Ododo’s administration has prioritised the development of the solid minerals sector, recognising its potential to drive industrialization, job creation, and revenue diversification beyond oil.

He added, “With the acquisition of the minerals titles, the state is poised to become a major player in the solid minerals industry.”

“The development is expected to open up multiple streams of revenue that would boost all-round development in the state”.

The commissioner charged journalists to play a pivotal role in driving development in the solid minerals sector.

He urged the NUJ to promote responsible mining and sustainable development in collaboration with the government, private sector, and civil society.

The guest Speaker, Dr Tope Joel, in his paper, highlighted the role of the media in ensuring the actualisation of the goal of harnessing Kogi State’s solid mineral deposits for economic development.

Joel urged the Kogi Government to establish a solid mineral development company with a trained directorate to regulate and closely monitor mining activities.

He said the media should play a proactive role in reporting on mining activities to help harness Kogi State’s solid mineral deposits for socio-economic development.

Earlier, the Kogi NUJ, Alhaji Ademu Seidu, appealed to the state government to restore end-of-year financial assistance to its members and fulfil its promise of providing a brand new bus for the Union.

Seidu also urged the government to renovate the NUJ colonial building and the Lord Lugard wooden house in the NUJ premises.

The NUJ Chairman also commended the Governor’s leadership style, which has endeared his administration to the media sector.

He noted that the Council has achieved some milestones, including the revival of the NUJ clinic and the construction of an overflow attached to the Council hall.

However, Seidu said the Council still faces challenges in sourcing funds to run the Secretariat and pay staff.

He thanked the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communications, Evangelist Kingsley Femi Fanwo, and other government officials for their support.

The occasion featured the conferment of awards on notable personalities and government officials who have made positive

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

The Kogi state Commissioner for Works, Mr Muhammed Yusuf on Tuesday in Abejukolo, reaffirmed commitment of the state to improving road networks across the state, with a focus on enhancing transportation of goods and services.

The Commissioner disclosed this during a media tour inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in the Eastern Senatorial District of the state.

Yusuf highlighted the ongoing reconstruction of the 10-kilometre Bagana-Abejukolo dual carriage road in Abejukolo, the headquarters of Omala Local Government Area.

According to him, the project aims to ease the transportation of farm produce and movement of people in the area, thereby improving their livelihoods and boosting the economy of the state.

“We commend Ododo for the love he has for the people at the grassroots by creating accessibility from one community to another to ease movement of motorists and farm produce from the farms to the markets,” Yusuf said.

The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, also emphasised the government’s commitment to balancing projects across the three senatorial districts of the state.

“It is not about executing projects but balancing the projects across the three senatorial districts of the state.

“We have seen the projects execution in Kogi west and today we are in Kogi east.

“Next week it will be the turn of central senatorial district,” Fanwo said.

He assured that the government will continue its giant strides in improving the living standard of the people, especially residents at the grassroots.

Also at Ankpa, Yusuf hinted that the erosion control and road projects of the government being handled by Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) had drastically reduced flooding and erosion in Ankpa.

He said that the projects, including the one-by-one meter height drain serve as channels to control erosion effectively in Ankpa and environs.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

The Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, said the State Government has intensified synergy with federal agencies and international partners to reposition agriculture as the mainstay of state’s economy, ensure food security, and promote agricultural export.

The commissioner gave the assurance when led some government officials, a delegation of agriculture experts and investors on a working visit to Geregu in Ajaokuta Local Government Area.

This delegation of agriculture experts and investors inspected farms and engaged stakeholders on opportunities for mechanised farming and market expansion in the market.

He pointed out that the initiative reflects Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s vision of leveraging the state’s resources in agriculture to create jobs, empower farmers, and strengthen the economy.

“Our Governor has always said we must produce what we eat and eat what we produce. With mechanisation, innovation, and the right partnerships, Kogi will not only feed its people but also support neighbouring states and possibly have enough to export. Agriculture remains our best path to job creation, especially for the thousands of graduates produced every year in our universities,” he said.

Also speaking, Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture, Mr. Mathew Ajayi, explained that the partnership aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s food security agenda and efforts to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on food imports.

“Nigeria spends billions of dollars annually on food imports. Our goal is to reverse this trend by promoting crops like rice, maize, soybeans, and cash crops for export. This partnership with Kogi and Onida Agri will help us achieve that and generate billions of dollars in agricultural exports,” he noted.

Similarly, Director-General of the Kogi State Commodity Exchange, Hon. Victor Omofaiye emphasised the role of the agency in ensuring farmers get fair market prices and access to export opportunities.

“Our mandate is to improve food security, establish a commodity exchange, and promote export. By creating market accessibility, we will ensure our farmers are not shortchanged, and we will transform crops like rice into exportable commodities,” he said

Managing Director of Onida Agri and Aquaculture Solutions Ltd, Israel Kidron described Kogi as a prime location for modern farming due to its fertile land and abundant water.

“We came to Kogi because it has all the parameters for successful agriculture. We are looking to establish modern, year-round operations supported by technology, better varieties, and mechanisation. Beyond that, we will train farmers and transfer knowledge to ensure better yields and quality,” he said.

He added that Onida Agri, with over 35 years of agricultural experience in Africa and 15 years in Nigeria, is committed to supporting Kogi in achieving food security while positioning its crops for international export markets.

The partnership is expected to extend across some local government areas of the state, providing employment opportunities, empowering farmers, and driving Kogi’s emergence as a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation value chain.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo

A retired Professor of Ethnocommunicology, Desmond Wilson, has called for a collective commitment to tackle Nigeria’s challenges.

Prof. Wilson made the call during the celebration of his 75th birthday and the presentation of his latest book, “Communication Nuggets in Private and Public Spaces,” at the University of Uyo’s

Wilson, who also used the occasion to announce scholarship awards to deserving students from tertiary institutions through The Elizabeth Des Wilson Scholarship Foundation, expressed gratitude to the Prof. Akpan H. Ekpo Center for Public Policy, the organizers of the event.

Turning to a pressing concern, the Don observed sadly that excitement for books is declining in Nigeria due to the nation’s challenges. He therefore charged everyone in attendance to make a difference by committing to making Nigeria a better place from whatever corner they find themselves.

Chairman of the occasion, Senator Ekong Sampson, represented by Prof. Etete Peters, applauded Professor Wilson’s unwavering integrity saying that “Prof. Wilson is a man of unwavering integrity. When you can conduct yourself in a very transparent manner, people will be so proud of you,” he stated.

Unveiling Professor Wilson’s new book, the Paramount Ruler of Eket, Edidem E.C.D. Abia, noted with a touch of humour that uncovering the book was like searching for treasure. “You have to dig very deep before you find gold or diamond,” he said.

The book reviewer, Professor Peter Esuh, Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, presented the 291-page book to the audience, calling it a vital compendium of wisdom for modern life. “A nugget is a precious metal, something you would not be able to do without,” Prof. Esuh declared.

Delving into the book’s content, Prof. Esuh highlighted its practical nature, covering everything from writing abstracts and memoranda to understanding propaganda and artificial intelligence. To underscore Wilson’s originality, he posed a question to the audience: “How many of us know the difference between feedback, feed-forward, and Wilson’s own ‘feed front’?”

Professor Herbert Batta, Head of the Department of Information and Media Studies, had earlier described the celebrant as “the Professor of Professors, our mentor-in-chief, builder of captains of industry, and our icon of ethnocommunicology in Africa.” He noted that the event was a fitting tribute to a scholar whose work has shaped the field for over four decades.

In a lecture on Wilson’s academic trajectory, Batta traced the origins of a visionary who was part of the young founders of the School of Communication Studies 42 years ago.

.He detailed Wilson’s groundbreaking work in cataloging the intricate systems of indigenous Nigerian communication—from instrumental modes like hydrophones and symbols to demonstrative modes like music and ballads, and even the profound realm of extra-mundane communication involving incantations.

“This scholarly labour, Batta argued, was not an exercise in nostalgia but a vital mapping of cultural DNA for the modern, digitized world.

He elaborated on the scholar’s groundbreaking M-E-L-D-S model for African communication policy, which is predicated on communication for Mobilization, Education, Liberation, Development, and Self-actualization.

Batta emphasized that Wilson’s work seeks to liberate the African mind. The goal, he said, is to free it from “the emotional, psychological, and ideological clogs that stifle the vision of society and overall actions in a dynamic world.”

Batta, a Professor of Science Communication/Media, concluded from his critical analysis that the Don has always recognized the centrality of communication in the development process, particularly for the Global South.

Adding a personal dimension, Professor Effiong Johnson shared reasons for celebrating Wilson’s character. “He’s one person who believes that right is right and wrong is wrong, no matter who is affected,” Johnson said.

He also highlighted Wilson’s constructive approach to criticism. “He can criticize, but constructively, and part of that construct is that he would propose solutions to correct the situation.”

By Israel Adamu, Jos 

The Albert Initiative for Development (AID) In solidarity with the APC National Chairman Prof Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe has  hosted a 2-day community program in Okobo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Our Correspondent reports that the program, took place on the 19, September 2025, and Saturday,  20, September 2025, and featured a free medical outreach and commissioning of an electrical transformer.

A statement made available to reports reads that  the medical outreach, took place at Lutheran Church, Esuk Inwang,and  provided free specialized eye examination and treatment, blood pressure checks, malaria and serology screening, diabetic screenings, medical consultation, and distribution of medicated eyeglasses. 

Additionally, assorted wrappers was distributed to aged widows, and customized exercise books was also shared to students in the communities.

The statement also reads that  the commissioning of the electrical transformer at Atabong Clan marks the end of seven years of total blackout and nocturnal wonderland. 

” Engr. Albert Asuquo’s pragmatic approach to community development has brought hope and relief to the people of Atabong Clan.”

The Albert Initiative for Development is committed to enhancing healthcare access and community welfare, particularly for underserved populations. The initiative’s focus on human capacity development, education, and empowerment will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the community.

We congratulate Engr. Albert Asuquo and the Albert Initiative for Development on this remarkable achievement and look forward to more impactful programs in the future.

By Israel Adamu, Jos 

Speaker of the Plateau state House of assembly RT Hon.Naanlong Daniel on Thursday called for  the establishment of state police as part of efforts to tackle insecurity across his state and Nigeria.

He  urged the National Assembly not to relent in giving the needed push to make it a success.

In an open letter to to the National Assembly dated 24th of September 2025 ,Speaker Naanlong said ” I  write to you today as the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, representing the voices of my constituents and the broader Nigerian populace.

He added that ” The prevailing security challenges in our country demand urgent attention and collective action. 

In the letter ,the Speaker added that “As leaders, we have a moral obligation to prioritize the safety and security of our citizens.”

” The current security architecture has proven inadequate, with widespread violence, killings, and genocide occurring across the country, particularly in the North. “

“Despite substantial allocations to security agencies, Nigerians continue to live in fear. 

In Plateau State, the situation is dire, with frequent attacks on communities, including Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Mangu, Riyom, Wase, Qua’an Pan and Jos South. “

“These attacks have caused immense hardship to survivors, affecting their health, education, food security, and psychological well-being.”

Naanlong also said ” The creation of state police is a critical step towards addressing these security challenges. By empowering state governors to take responsibility for maintaining law and order in their respective states, we can respond more effectively to security threats.”

 “State police would allow for rapid response, improved community policing, and a deeper understanding of regional security challenges.”

“While concerns about potential abuse of power are valid, they should not overshadow the imperative of protecting human life. Robust accountability mechanisms, comprehensive training programs, and a national framework can be established to ensure that state police operate within the bounds of the law.”

I urge you to consider the imperative of creating state police in Nigeria. This initiative has the potential to revolutionize our approach to security, bringing it closer to the people and enhancing our capacity to respond to security challenges.

” Let us put aside political differences and prioritize the safety and security of our citizens”.

He also said ” The interest and survival of our people in Plateau State should guide our actions.”

 ” I recall the efforts of the immediate past Governor of Plateau State,  Senator Simon Bako Lalong, who championed this cause during his tenure. I implore you to support the creation of state police and work towards a safer, more prosperous Nigeria, Speaker Naanlong added

Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, has reaffirmed that research commercialization remains central to Nigeria’s economic development.

Speaking at the North-Central Sensitization Programme on the NASENI Research Commercialization Grant Programme (NRCGP), held on Wednesday, 24th September 2025 at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja, Halilu stressed the importance of addressing financial and administrative setbacks often faced by research projects.

The EVC who was represented by NASENI’s Research Director, Prof. Abdulmalik Ibrahim Onuwe stated that the NRCGP was designed to support viable research and development initiatives in the country, which also propagates NASENI’s mission and vision.

 According to him, the application process is fully digitalized, transparent, and does not require physical presence or long administrative procedures. “This sensitization is not just for personal benefit but also to empower prospective researchers from institutes who may seek guidance about the programme,” Halilu said.

He urged participants, including representatives from universities, the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), National Space Research and Development Agency (NSRDA), among others to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by NASENI to foster collaboration and innovation.

Presenting an overview of the NRCGP, Programme Coordinator and Special Adviser to the EVC on Science and Engineering Commercialisation, Engr. Dr. Anas Balarabe Yazid, highlighted the objectives, eligibility criteria, and key assessment tools of the programme.

He emphasized that the grant aligns with NASENI’s mandate to promote local content, noting that under the NASENI principle of Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation (3Cs), it is being radically prioritized. “Every research project must be noble, clear, market-viable, and align with NASENI’s transformation agenda and Nigeria’s broader development goals,” he said.

In her vote of thanks, Deputy Director, Planning and Policy Analysis, Ms. Joy Elugbe expressed appreciation to the EVC and participants, encouraging researchers to embrace NASENI’s initiatives as a pathway to national progress.

 By Jabiru Hassan.

  Non-governmental organisations often play  important role in putting  smiles on the faces of t people usually affected by disasters of all categories in order to make  their living pleasant. 

 Many NGO's have in the past initiated different types of humanitarian projects to support  people who are in difficult or disaster related situation. This is  to at least reduce the stress and difficulty associated with disaster especially natural disasters.

 It is gratifying to express that Hazras Charity Foundation, an official delivery partner of Muslims aid Austria (MAA) in Nigeria has done a very commendable projects by distribution 800 Food packs to household affected by heavy flooding in Mokwa Niger state which was described as a great savior to the beneficiaries. 

 The intervention was fully sponsored  by MAA international, that targeted most vulnerable groups, that consists of widows,orphans, internally displaced person's as well as low-income families that received essential foods items like rice, beans,cassava flakes,vegetable oil, salt, seasoning and sugar.  

Furthermore, prior to the distribution of the above listed items, the leadership of Hazras Charity Foundation was able to visits some of  the states key stakeholders including the Etsu Nupe, ministry of Budget and planning,ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, and the Niger state emergency Management Agency respectively for blessings and effective collaboration and transparency.

  Those who spoke at the distribution exercise, the Foundation's Board of trustee chair lady Hajiya Lauratu Ado Diso and the national chairman Dr. Abdullateef Abdulkadir stated that "

 The project reflected the shared spirit of compassion and humanitarian solidarity, where they expressed gratitude to the sponsors of the initiative, he MAA International for their support adding that Hazras charity foundation would continue to serve  the vulnerable with transparency and equity to makes the livelihood of the less previledge more better". 

 In conclusion,  the MAA International trusted delivery partner, (Hazras charity foundation) has proven that their track record, dedication and professionalism will enable the Nigeria's vulnerable to benefits more from the sponsors selfless initiatives being an international donor organisation without bias.



Jabiru Hassan is the Special Assistant (Media&Publicity) to the National Chairman, HCF,Kano.