Author: Online Editor

  • Press Statement from the Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives

    Press Statement from the Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives

    February 24, 2025

    Speaker Abbas launches campaign against drug abuse, domestic violence in North-West

    …laments rising cases in zone, seeks religious, traditional leaders’ intervention

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has launched a sensitisation campaign against the rising cases of drug abuse and domestic violence in the North-West geopolitical zone, saying it demands urgent actions.

    He stated that the task of eradicating drug abuse, illicit drug flow, and domestic violence should not be left to the government alone, noting that it is the responsibility of all stakeholders.

    Speaker Abbas, therefore, called on traditional and religious leaders as well as educators to join the campaign against drug abuse and domestic violence, urging them to sensitize those under their influence on the impact on society.

    The Speaker made the call at the flag-off of Sensitisation Campaign Against Drug Abuse and Domestic Violence in the North-West Zone, themed: ‘Stop Drug Abuse and Domestic Violence in Our Communities,’ held in Kaduna on Monday. It was organized in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA).

    Speaker Abbas, who convened the sensitisation campaign, announced that his office would work closely with NOA and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), as well as other key stakeholders, “engaging directly with communities, traditional rulers, religious leaders, educators, and non-governmental organisations across all states and local governments in the North-West.”

    He said: “I have chosen to focus on these pressing issues because they strike at the very heart of our collective security and prosperity. Sensitisation, in this context, is far more than an awareness campaign; it is a decisive call to action. By educating our citizens about the perils of drug abuse and domestic violence, we aim to foster preventative measures, extend critical support services, and empower our communities to safeguard their future.”

    The Speaker noted that the flag-off comes at “a critical juncture for our region, where recent data from various Nigerian government agencies have underscored the urgency of these issues.”

    He cited the example of a report by the NDLEA, which said there was a 25 per cent rise in drug abuse in the North-West over the past three years.

    The NDLEA also reported that in Kaduna State alone, statistics indicate a 28 per cent increase in drug seizures in 2023 compared to the previous year, while similar troubling trends have been observed in Katsina, Kano, Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, and Kebbi.

    “In these states, law enforcement agencies are contending with a surge in the availability and consumption of illicit substances, which threatens public safety and undermines socioeconomic stability,” the Speaker said.

    Speaker Abbas said it is equally concerning that the scourge of domestic violence has continued to ravage families and communities across our nation, particularly in the North-West. 

    He also cited data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey and reports from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development which reveal that nearly 35 per cent of women nationwide have experienced some form of domestic violence  and “the situation is even more alarming” in the North-West.

    The Speaker said recent figures from Kano suggest that up to 40 per cent of women have encountered domestic abuse, while Kaduna, Katsina, and Sokoto have recorded significant increases in reported cases over the past year. 

    Speaker Abbas said: “These figures are a stark reminder that domestic violence not only violates human rights but also inflicts lasting physical, emotional, and psychological trauma that weakens the social fabric of our communities.

    “In addressing these twin challenges, I must acknowledge the commendable and targeted interventions by the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    “On the national stage, the government has significantly bolstered the capacity of the NDLEA by increasing funding, providing modern tools and enhanced training, and launching initiatives that expand rehabilitation centres and community-based outreach programmes. These measures have disrupted drug trafficking networks and provided essential support to those affected by substance abuse.”

    On the issue of domestic violence, Speaker Abbas noted that the government has introduced robust legal reforms and reinforced policies through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. These efforts, he said, include establishing safe houses, counselling services, and comprehensive public awareness campaigns that aim to protect victims and promote cultural change toward zero tolerance of abuse.

    While stating that it is incumbent upon the government to enact and enforce policies that address the root causes of these challenges, he stressed that community leaders must foster a culture that unequivocally rejects drug abuse and domestic violence.

    The Speaker said: “I call upon all the governors of the North-West states and their local government chairmen to wholeheartedly support this initiative and work in unison with the agencies charged with its execution. The future of our region depends on the decisive actions we take today. Let us unite our efforts to protect our youth from the destructive allure of drugs and uphold the rights and dignity of every citizen.”

    The Chairman of NDLEA, Brigadier-General Mohammed Buba Marwa (rtd.), CON, who delivered the keynote address titled, ‘The Impact of Drug Addiction on National Development,’ noted that drug abuse is one of the major challenges facing the country.

    Marwa noted that there is a strong link between drug abuse and criminality. 

    While pointing out that though the NDLEA is the first responder in checking the flow of illicit drugs in Nigeria, Marwa stated that it is not a responsibility of the agency alone, as security agencies, public, religious and traditional institutions have roles to play.

    In his welcome address, the Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, said the campaign was a call for action by all stakeholders to make society safe for all.

    While calling for sensitisation of people at the grassroots, especially the young ones, the NOA DG urged traditional and religious leaders to use their influence in society to campaign against drug abuse.

    Issa-Onilu stated that the event was about the future of the new generation, warning that Nigeria risks losing a generation to drug abuse and addiction.

    Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr. Aishatu Abubakar-Sadiq, stated that attention should also be paid to over-the-counter drugs, noting that apart from hard drugs, medicines such as cough syrups and analgesics are also abused.

    The governor also reeled out the interventions by his administration while commending the local governments in Kaduna for their collaborative efforts.

  • Ijaw communities in Delta urge Oborevwori to complete Ayakoromor bridge, others

    Ijaw communities in Delta urge Oborevwori to complete Ayakoromor bridge, others

    By Anne Azuka 

    Traditional rulers  in Ijaw communities in Delta State have urged the state government to speed up the completion of Ayakoromor bridge and other road projects in the communities.

    They made the appeal when the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori paid them a thank you visit at the Ugborikoko residence of the Pere of Ogulagha Kingdom and Chairman of Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers’ Forum, ElderJoseph Timiyen.

    The traditional rulers also called for the establishment of tertiary educational institutions in Ijaw nation, the construction of more roads, the restoration of electricity supply to Isaba Kingdom and the peaceful and fair resolution of the Ogbe-Ijoh/Aladja crisis.

    Chairman of Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum and Pere of Ogulaha Kingdom, Elder Joseph Timiyen, who  gave an assurance of sustained support of the people of Ijaw nation to the administration of Governor Oborevwori, appealed for the posting of more teachers to primary and secondary schools in the riverine communities of the state with a view to promoting effective teaching and learning in the areas.

    Delta State Governor,  Sheriff Oborevwori, assured the people of Ogbe-Ijaw in Warri South West and Aladja in Udu Local Government Areas  of unbiased and peaceful resolution of their crises.

    While commending the people for not resorting to violence, the Delta State Governor said he was quite impressed that the two communities ceased hostilities after listening to his counsel.

    Governor Oborevwori urged them to remain peaceful while reiterating his assurance to the two communities that he would not be sentimental in resolving the crisis.

  • North Central APC Forum Urges Opposition Leaders to Join Party

    North Central APC Forum Urges Opposition Leaders to Join Party

    By Israel Adamu, Jos 

    The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has called on political leaders and elders in the region, currently in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other opposition parties, to join the APC for the continued development of the region.

    In a statement released on Monday, the Forum emphasized that the APC-led government of President Bola Tinubu is committed to addressing the region’s challenges and ensuring its progress.

    Signed by the Forum’s chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, the statement identified key opposition leaders being encouraged to switch to the APC, including former Senate Presidents David Mark and Bukola Saraki, ex-governors Jonah Jang (Plateau), Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Gabriel Suswam (Benue), Samuel Ortom (Benue), and former PDP National Chairman, Prof. Iyorchia Ayu.

    The Forum noted that under PDP rule, the North-Central suffered neglect and marginalization, while under the APC, the region has witnessed significant improvements in infrastructure, governance, and security.

    “North-Central Must Prioritize Development Over Party Loyalty”

    “We urge our respected North-Central leaders to put the region’s development ahead of party loyalty,” the statement read. “Unlike previous administrations, the APC under President Tinubu has prioritized North-Central’s progress, earning our endorsement for his second term.”

    The Forum highlighted ongoing federal projects in the region, such as:

    • Road infrastructure development, including major highways like Jos-Akwanga, Makurdi-Otukpa, Lokoja-Abuja, and Minna-Bida roads.
    • The establishment of the North-Central Development Commission (NCDC) to fast-track economic growth.
    • Key political appointments for North-Central leaders, such as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), held by Sen. George Akume, and top ministerial positions in justice, information, humanitarian affairs, and water resources.

    APC Forum Assures Security, Economic Growth

    The Forum also credited President Tinubu’s leadership for reducing insecurity in the North-Central, allowing farmers to return to their fields.

    “Before now, farming was nearly impossible due to insecurity. However, with President Tinubu’s firm security measures, our people can now cultivate and harvest their crops safely,” the statement added.

    PDP Leaders Sidelined, Should Consider APC

    The Forum further claimed that PDP’s current leadership has sidelined North-Central political figures, making the APC a better platform for their influence and contributions.

    “Eminent leaders like Saraki, Ayu, Mark, Jang, Suswam, Ortom, and Babangida Aliyu have been sidelined in the PDP. In the APC, they will be valued and given the platform to continue serving the people of the North-Central,” it stated.

    Reaffirming its support for President Tinubu, the Forum urged the region’s political elite to align with the APC for the benefit of their people and the overall development of North-Central Nigeria.

  • Gov Mutfwang Advocates for Unity at 11th Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture

    Gov Mutfwang Advocates for Unity at 11th Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture


    By Israel Adamu, Jos 

    Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has called on Nigerians to embrace diversity as a tool for fostering national unity. He made the appeal at the 11th annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Merit Awards held in Bauchi State on Monday.

    Represented by the Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, Gov. Mutfwang emphasized that Nigeria’s unity is non-negotiable.

    He praised the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, for his legacy of leadership and development, urging Northern leaders to work together in addressing regional challenges and restoring the North’s prominence.

    “The Sardauna of Sokoto lived and died for the North. He laid a solid foundation for the region’s development. It is now our responsibility to build on that foundation,” he said.

    Speaking on the theme of the event, “Nature’s Bounty: Turning Northern Nigeria’s Untapped Resources into Sustainable Prosperity,” Mutfwang stressed the need for a diversified economic approach that maximizes the potential of agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and creative industries.

    “Northern Nigeria is blessed with vast agricultural land and human resources that remain largely untapped. The question before us today is: how can we harness these resources effectively to drive sustainable economic growth and development for our people?” he stated.

    The governor urged Northern elites to collaborate with state governments to create economic opportunities and combat poverty.

    While calling for support and prayers for the nation’s leadership, he assured Plateau residents that his administration is working tirelessly to bring sustainable development across the state’s 17 local government areas.

    “We are implementing policies and programs in key sectors such as agriculture, transportation, education, and healthcare to alleviate poverty and improve the lives of our people,” Mutfwang added.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Plateau State, stating, “God has blessed Northern Nigeria abundantly, and it is our collective responsibility to harness these blessings for the greater good.”

  • Igoche Mark Hails D’Tigers’ Feat as They Secure Qualification for 2025 Afrobasket Tournament

    Igoche Mark Hails D’Tigers’ Feat as They Secure Qualification for 2025 Afrobasket Tournament

    Nigerian basketball has achieved a significant milestone as the D’Tigers have officially qualified for the 2025 Afrobasket tournament. FIBA confirmed that all teams in Group B of the ongoing Afrobasket qualifiers have secured their spots.

    The D’Tigers sealed their qualification with a game to spare, showcasing their dominance by defeating Libya 75-70, Uganda 87-67, and ultimately beating Cape Verde 77-62 in their final group match on Sunday.

    Igoche Mark, basketball promoter and founder of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, praised the team’s performance under Coach Abdulrahman Mohammed. He highlighted the players’ resilience, particularly their impressive fourth-quarter display against Uganda, where they outscored their opponents 32-8. “In the games against Libya and Uganda, I saw a resilient team with a passion to overcome all obstacles. Their performance against Uganda in the fourth quarter truly exemplified the Nigerian spirit,” Mark stated.

    Mark also shared optimism for the future of basketball in Nigeria, expressing confidence that the sport will experience a revival. He offered words of encouragement to the team, stating that the recent formation of the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade (Chairman and Director-General, respectively) will lead to positive changes. “This achievement shouldn’t overshadow the challenges basketball has faced in Nigeria, but with the National Sports Commission’s involvement, the sport is poised for a much-needed RESET,” he concluded.

  • Funke Akindele Clarifies Feminist Views on Respect in Marriage

    Funke Akindele Clarifies Feminist Views on Respect in Marriage

    By Milcah Tanimu

    Funke Akindele feminist views have sparked conversations as the actress clarifies her stance on gender equality and respect in relationships. In a recent conversation with the wife of skit maker Kamo State, Funke declared her support for feminism but stressed that she does not condone women disrespecting their husbands.

    The actress also encouraged men to treat women with respect, urging them to avoid outdated notions like “a woman’s place is in the kitchen.”

    Additionally, Funke highlighted the significance of women’s economic power in the home, believing it equips them to support their husbands and protect their autonomy.

    Her remarks come amid ongoing debates in Nigeria about women’s roles, particularly in light of recent political drama involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. However, it is unclear if Funke’s comments were directly influenced by the events in the Senate.

    In the discussion, Funke emphasized the importance of balancing empowerment and mutual respect within marriages and partnerships.

  • Nigeria’s Gift Monday Nominated for Liga F Player of the Month Award

    Nigeria’s Gift Monday Nominated for Liga F Player of the Month Award

    Nigeria’s Gift Monday Liga F nomination highlights her outstanding form in Spain’s top-flight women’s league. The UD Tenerife striker has been shortlisted for the February Player of the Month award after netting crucial goals against Barcelona, Sevilla, and Valencia.

    The 23-year-old forward has played a key role in Tenerife’s rise to sixth place, scoring 10 goals in 17 appearances this season. She previously enjoyed a remarkable scoring streak, finding the net in six consecutive matches between December and January.

    Joining her on the nomination list are Real Madrid’s Alba Redondo, Barcelona’s Caroline Hansen, and Deportivo La Coruña’s Ainhoa Marin, among others. Monday’s consistent performances place her third in the Liga F top scorers’ chart, trailing only Barcelona’s Ewa Pajor (15 goals) and Granada’s Edna Imade (12 goals).

    Now in her third season in Spain, Monday has already surpassed her goal tally from her previous two campaigns combined. She also impressed in the Copa de la Reina, scoring twice before Tenerife’s elimination.

    Her nomination is a testament to her rising influence in Spanish women’s football and the Super Falcons star’s growing reputation on the international stage.

  • Tinubu Moves to Resolve Lagos Assembly Crisis Amid APC Tensions

    Tinubu Moves to Resolve Lagos Assembly Crisis Amid APC Tensions

    By Milcah Tanimu

    President Bola Tinubu has intervened in the ongoing Lagos Assembly crisis after the impeachment of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa by 36 out of 40 lawmakers. The lawmakers accused Obasa of corruption and abuse of office, leading to his removal and the appointment of Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker. However, Obasa challenged his impeachment in court, arguing that it was conducted unlawfully while the Assembly was on recess.

    To restore order, Tinubu has engaged senior APC leaders, including former governors Bisi Akande and Olusegun Osoba, in a series of high-level meetings at the Governor’s Lodge in Marina, Lagos. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has also played a key role in mediation efforts.

    Insiders suggest that a resolution may involve Meranda stepping down, allowing a lawmaker from Lagos West Senatorial District, such as Chief Whip David Setonji or Wale Rauf, to assume the position. This move aims to maintain political balance within the state.

    With Tinubu’s intervention, the crisis has taken a new turn as stakeholders push for a peaceful resolution. The outcome will shape the future leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly and the political stability of the APC in the state.

  • 10 Best Nail Colors for Light Skin That Look Stunning

    10 Best Nail Colors for Light Skin That Look Stunning

    By Milcah Tanimu

    Choosing the best nail colors for light skin can enhance your overall look effortlessly. The right shade adds elegance, complements your undertones, and brings out the beauty of your hands. Soft pink is a timeless choice that adds femininity without overpowering fair skin, making it ideal for both casual and formal occasions. Nude shades offer a sophisticated and chic appearance, blending seamlessly with light skin tones.

    For a modern and edgy look, light gray is an excellent option that suits both professional and everyday settings. Lavender brings a dreamy, elegant touch, offering a soft pop of color while maintaining a classy feel. Baby blue adds a playful and fresh vibe, giving fair skin a youthful and radiant glow.

    Peach is a warm, flattering shade that enhances fair skin naturally, while mint green makes a bold yet classy statement with its cool, refreshing tone. Rose gold offers a glamorous blend of shimmer and warmth, making it the perfect pick for special occasions. Coral provides an energetic pop of color, bringing vibrance and life to fair skin. For those who love a clean and minimalist style, sheer white is a go-to option, enhancing the natural beauty of the nails while keeping them fresh and modern.

    With these stunning nail color choices, light-skinned girls have plenty of options to keep their manicures stylish and flattering. Whether you prefer soft pastels, bold hues, or elegant neutrals, there’s a perfect shade to suit every mood and occasion.

    4o

  • Security Goes Beyond Weapons and Patrols – Ex-Army Spokesperson

    Security Goes Beyond Weapons and Patrols – Ex-Army Spokesperson

    By Milcah Tanimu

    Retired Brigadier General Sani Usman has emphasized that security goes beyond weapons and patrols, urging authorities to adopt a more comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity, particularly in Nigeria’s North West region. Speaking at a two-day retreat in Kaduna for Katsina State officials and security experts, Usman highlighted the need for a complete overhaul of the region’s security framework.

    According to a statement released by Ibrahim Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, Usman called for unconventional security strategies to address the persistent threats in Katsina, Zamfara, and other states. He stressed that a combination of security operations, peacebuilding initiatives, and conflict management strategies is necessary to restore stability.

    Commending Governor Dikko Radda’s efforts, Usman praised initiatives such as the establishment of a community watch corps and the creation of a Ministry of Home Security. He noted that securing communities requires more than just law enforcement presence, emphasizing the importance of economic programs to empower young people, collaboration with traditional and religious leaders, and improved intelligence gathering.

    Security isn’t just about weapons and patrols; it’s about governance, hope, and creating opportunities. Lasting solutions require collective action,” Usman stated.

    This call for a holistic security strategy reflects the growing need for innovative solutions to tackle insecurity in Nigeria beyond traditional military interventions.