Daybreak, Politics, Entertainment, Sport

Category: News

You can add some category description here.

  • Southern Kaduna Honours Lekwot, Agwai, Kukah, Makarfi, Aliyu Jama’a Others

    Southern Kaduna Honours Lekwot, Agwai, Kukah, Makarfi, Aliyu Jama’a Others

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    There appears to be a glowing serenity with air of high profile personalities as Indigenous people of Kaduna State sets to mark the maiden edition of mother of all events entitled: “Southern Kaduna Festival 2023”.

    The three days occasion scheduled to kicks off today Thursday 28th December 2023, with opening ceremony at Kafanchan Township Stadium, in the zone, has identified prominent Sons and daughters for award of honours.

    Among them includes the late Wazirin Jema’a, Alhaji Aliyu Mohammed Jama’a, former Kaduna State Governors Mr. Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Alh. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi and other personalities, for their sterling contributions in the development of the area.

    Also identified for the honour are Bishop Hassan Mathew Kukah, Generals Zamani Lekwot, Martins Luther Agwai amongst other personalities numerous to mention.

    The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the event, Rear Admiral Fergusson Dukas Bobai (retd), who disclosed this recently in Abuja, revealed that the reason behind the awards is to give honour to the memories of leaders from the Zone or State and also acknowledge the contributions of leaders, both past and present, in the development of the zone.

    “Starting from Thursday 28th Saturday 30th December, Southern Kaduna will hold the maiden edition of the Southern Kaduna Festival (SKFES 2023) with the theme: ‘Experience Unity, Celebrate Culture.

    “The opening ceremony shall be declared open by the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe.

    “The essence of this festival is to celebrate our unity in diversity and bestow awards to deserving sons and daughters, including prominent Nigerians that are not indigenes of the zone, who have contributed to our development as a region.

    “There will also be sporting activities, beauty pageant amongst 57 ethnic nationalities in the zone, among other competition”.

    “The highest award, the Southern Kaduna Grand Commander (SKGC)”, according to the Chairman of the planning committee, shall; be bestowed on the former Military Administrator of old Rivers State, Major-General Zamani Lekwot (retd), and former Chief of Defence State, General Martin Luther Agwai (retd). Also on the SKGC list is the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah.

    According to the event planners, SKGC posthumous awardees are the late Ibrahim Yakowa who died in a helicopter crash in December 2013, while serving as governor of Kaduna State. Another posthumous SKGC recipient is former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Wazirin Jema’a, Alhaji Aliyu Mohammed.

    Other awardees, according to Bobai, include the former Governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi who is to be bestowed with the Southern Kaduna Citizen’s Award (SKCA).

    Makarfi is reputed to have provided vast infrastructural networks in the zone and granted more chiefdoms to Southern Kaduna ethnic nationalities.
    To also receive the SKCA award is the former Military Administrator of the state, Col Jafaru Isah who initiated efforts at granting more chiefdoms to the zone in 1996. Another recipient of the same SKCA award is Hon. Machu Bulus Gwall for his development initiatives.
    Two recipients are billed to also receive the Southern Kaduna service Award (SKSA). They are Chief Michael Hassan Usaini and a retired director in the Ministry of Education, Mr. Simon K. Auta.

    Speaking on SKFES 2023, Bobai commended Governor Uba Sani for demonstrating early signs of his willingness to ensure every section of the state was carried along in the administration of the state.

    “So far, Governor Uba Sani has shown impressive signs that he is willing to carry all sections of the state in the administration of the state. His acceptance to attend the closing ceremony of SKFES 2023 on Saturday December 30 clearly indicates that he is committed to the unity of our state.

    Billed to attend the closing ceremony are Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Tajudeen Abbas who will serve as the Chairman of the Occasion.

    Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna state is to serve as Special Guest of Honour, while Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State shall serve as Distinguished Guest of Honour.

    The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher G. Musa is to serve as Guest of Honour. The Chief Host for the occasion is the senator representing Kaduna South Zone 3, Distinguished Senator Sunday Marshall Katung.

    Father of the Day is the former Governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Mohammed Makarfi, and Mother of the Day is Mrs. Amina Patrick Yakowa.
    Royal Fathers of the Day are the ‘Oegwam Oegworok’ and Vice Chairman, Kaduna State Council of Chiefs, HRH Dr. Ufuwai Bonet, and the Emir of Jema’a, HRH Dr. Alhaji Muhammadu Isa Muhammadu, are among other dignitaries expected to grace the occasion.

    Either by omission or commission, name of Sen. Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna central in the 8th senate is missing, although, inside hinted our reporter that it was not deliberate.

  • Kebbi Mourns the Passing of Maiyama Local Government Chairman

    Kebbi Mourns the Passing of Maiyama Local Government Chairman

    The Kebbi State Government has conveyed the sad news of the sudden demise of Muhammad Bello, the Chairman of Maiyama Local Government Area. According to a statement by Ahmed Idris, the spokesperson for the state governor, Bello passed away early in the morning after battling a prolonged illness. The statement expressed regret over the loss and mentioned that the late chairman would be laid to rest later in the day. The specific time for the burial will be communicated to the public.

  • Edo State Assembly to Confront Governor Obaseki Over Unfair Budgetary Allocation to Deputy Governor’s Office

    Edo State Assembly to Confront Governor Obaseki Over Unfair Budgetary Allocation to Deputy Governor’s Office

    Edo State lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and Labour Party (LP) are preparing to confront Governor Godwin Obaseki over the “embarrassing and unfair allocation” in the 2024 budget to the office of Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. Sources reveal that the lawmakers are displeased with the treatment of Shaibu and his office, particularly regarding his 2024 governorship aspiration.

    The 2024 budget allocated a mere N300 million to the office of the deputy governor, while the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) received N8.8 billion, the Head of Service received N968 million, the Speaker received N13 billion, and the office of the governor received N19 billion. It is believed that Governor Obaseki is using any means necessary to hinder Shaibu’s political aspirations, but to their surprise, the deputy governor is growing stronger.

    A source claims that the 2024 Appropriation Bill, signed into law by Obaseki on December 15, 2023, is just the latest attempt to undermine Shaibu and the office of the deputy governor and that before the passage of the controversial budget, lawmakers were in disagreement over the allocation to the office of the deputy governor, leading to heated arguments at an executive session.

    Despite spirited efforts by fair-minded colleagues to rectify the situation, the Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, disregarded parliamentary decency at the plenary session.

    It appears that Governor Obaseki is determined to financially punish and ridicule Shaibu to hinder his governorship aspirations. However, the Edo lawmakers are prepared to challenge the governor, with the speaker potentially being the first casualty.

    The PDP, APC, and LP lawmakers in the Edo Assembly have been meeting regularly and intensifying their efforts to seek justice for Shaibu and his office

  • Plateau Massacre: Tinubu Approves Humanitarian Support For Victims

    Plateau Massacre: Tinubu Approves Humanitarian Support For Victims

    By Joyce Remi-Babayeju

    Following the Christmas Eve Plateau massacre, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the immediate humanitarian response and support to the victims of the unfortunate incident.

    Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu on Wednesday announced the Presidential approval for humanitarian support for the Plateau massacre and explained that her ministry will immediately collaborate with the Plateau State government to give the intervention to the survivors of the unfortunate attack and the affected communities.

    The minister who condoled with the victims, described the incident as senseless, horrendous and inhuman.

    Edu said: “It was with utter shock and sadness that I received the news of the barbaric, horrendous and senseless attacks in plateau communities which have left over 100 people dead and injured many while many more are displaced.”

    “I condole with the government and people of plateau state, especially families of the victims of this unnecessary assault on humanity and pray for a permanent peace in the plateau.”

    “One can only imagine the difficulties and humanitarian challenges facing the survivors and affected members of the communities.”

    “As a Ministry directly in charge of responding to humanitarian challenges of citizens in Nigeria, the federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has been directed by President Bola Tinubu to collaborate with the Plateau state government to bring humanitarian succour to the survivors of the unfortunate attacks as well as the affected communities.”

    “We are unrelenting in our efforts to ensure that every Nigerian and all parts of Nigeria experiencing humanitarian crises are catered for in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, she added.

  • FCT Per. Sec Commends Tinubu’s Government For Aligning With The SDG for Global Peace

    FCT Per. Sec Commends Tinubu’s Government For Aligning With The SDG for Global Peace

    By Joyce Remi-Babayeju

    The FCT Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusola Adesola, on Wednesday commended the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government for aligning with the Sustainable development Goals for global peace and development.

    Adesola mentioned this today in Abuja during the International UN- Volunteer UN Peace Volunteers celebration and conferment of his Award as the UN Global Peace Diplomat.

    The FCT Permanent Secretary in his appreciation speech said, ” The SDGs is a well thought out initiative to promote global peace. Look at the ministerial mandate of the President to end poverty and to promote inclusion, the anti- corruption and industrialization are in to promote peace and justice for all. This is aligns with the SGDs.”

    ” The SDGs have 17 goals which countries are encouraged to achieve. To include end of hunger, promotion of peace, improvement in quality of life .”

    “Worthy of note is goal 16 and 17.
    Goal 17 have acts of promoting peaceful and inclusive society for sustainable development to provide justice for all and build a justifiable accountable and inclusive institutions across the globe. ”

    “While goal 16 seeks to promote partnership. It calls on nations to revitalize global partnership for sustainable development.”

    While narrowing down the inclusivity in SDGs, Adesola said, ” Just imagine how it would be if it was only l and the coordinator here to present the award.? So your presence here supports inclusivity and partnership.”

    ” This explains why I deeply appreciate your presence here.
    With the emphasis on goals 16 and 17 you can also see that our country continues to align with the goals of the SDGs.”

    The UN – Volunteers recognized and Awarded Adesola as the ” Global Peace Diplomat” for his successful years in service to the nations and humanity.
    The Convener of the UN – Volunteers Award, Mr. Luka Jacob noted that Adesola was being celebrated as a mentor, and supporter of Nigerians.

  • Sultan Expresses Concern Over Plateau Killings, Criticizes Security Lapses

    Sultan Expresses Concern Over Plateau Killings, Criticizes Security Lapses

    The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has denounced the Christmas Eve bloodshed in 20 communities across Mangu, Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas of Plateau State. He criticized security agencies for their lapse in intelligence gathering, leading to the tragic loss of over 100 lives.

    The Sultan called for a more proactive approach from the government and security agencies, emphasizing the need to enhance intelligence gathering techniques. He expressed concern that bandits and terrorists often seem a step ahead, urging authorities to prevent such attacks before they occur.

    During the closing of the 80th National Islamic Vacation Course in Bauchi, the Sultan questioned the effectiveness of intelligence mechanisms and the role of governments in protecting lives and property. He warned against politicizing insecurity, emphasizing the importance of united efforts to address the challenges.

    The Sultan concluded by urging citizens to maintain hope, offer prayers, and exert pressure on leaders to address the prevailing issues, emphasizing the collective responsibility to build a better nation.

  • Ondo Governor Akeredolu Succumbs to Prostate Cancer in Germany

    Ondo Governor Akeredolu Succumbs to Prostate Cancer in Germany

    The Ondo State Government has officially confirmed the passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. The Governor, who battled prostate cancer, peacefully departed this world in Germany on Wednesday, December 27, 2023. A statement from the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss, acknowledging the profound void left by Governor Akeredolu’s departure. The government extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support during the governor’s illness. Further details about funeral arrangements will be released by the family and the state government. Governor Akeredolu is remembered as an extraordinary leader with unwavering dedication to Ondo State and the Southwest region. His courageous leadership and integrity have left an indelible mark.

  • Fire Outbreaks: FEMA Saves 247 Lives In 2023

    Fire Outbreaks: FEMA Saves 247 Lives In 2023

    … Distributes various relief items to 8402 beneficiaries across 6 Area Councils

    By Joyce Remi-Babayeju

    The FCT Emergency Management Agency , FEMA , Acting Director General, Mohammed Ibrahim Sabo has disclosed that the agency has saved 247 lives from fire outbreaks, and rescued 8740 from various natural disasters in 2023.

    Sabi disclosed this on Wednesday at the FEMA 2023 Media End of Year briefing on the scorecard on the activities of the agency.

    He said,” Major fire outbreaks,247 lives saved from 5 calls through the 112 toll-free number. 2 lives lost.”

    According to the FEMA Acting Director General, in 2023, the agency centered on major incidents such as flooding, fire outbreaks, building collapse and provision of relief materials to disaster affected persons.

    ‘In April 2023 ,FEMA engaged local divers in the six Area Councils in the FCT on how to effectively respond to flood issues which put 178 LGAs in 32 states including the FCT in high flood risk.’

    Furthermore, the Agency inaugurated emergency Marshals in the 6 area councils of the FCT to encourage community participation in disaster management.

    Also, Sabi disclosed that during the year under review FEMA saved 1845 lives through 24 calls on its 112 emergency toll-free number. 19 lives were, however, lost.”

    The FEMA Acting Director General giving a breakdown of the search and rescue activities in 2023 , stated that 1373 lives were rescued from various flood disasters, 4 lives were, however, lost.

    ‘Building collapse,173 lives saved from 5 calls,6 lives lost.”

    “The agency distributed various palliatives in Yangoji / Shafi community in Kwali Are Council were torrential rainfall where 200 households were displaced, and 25 farmlands were destroyed.

    The agency, on 25th September 2023, distributed food items including 1kg meat, 1kg garri ,1kg rice 4 pkts of spaghetti and clothing materials to about 300 vulnerable and displaced people at Wassa community.

    FEMA in collaboration with NEMA and the Agricultural and Rural Development Secretariat, distributed various food and non-food items to about 8403 beneficiaries across the 6 area councils of the FCT.

    The total number of items distributed to the beneficiaries include 1000 yam seedlings.
    2930 food items comprising rice, beans, maize, garri, guinea corn, groundnut oil,maggi, salt.

    Other items are 544 non-food items comprising mattresses, blankets, mosquito nets, stoves, buckets , cooking pots 1140 grinding machines.
    1139 sewing machines.
    1650 rice and maize seedlings, Sabo disclosed.

  • Unfounded Claim: Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, Is Alive

    Unfounded Claim: Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, Is Alive

    Contrary to circulating rumors, the Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, is not dead. Dismissing the unverified information, sources revealed that the governor is alive and well. Earlier speculations suggested that Governor Akeredolu had passed away at the age of 67. The unfounded news triggered discussions about the swearing-in of his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Efforts to confirm the situation through official channels, including the Alagbaka Government House, have been inconclusive. The state government has not issued a statement on the matter, and key officials could not be reached for comments. It’s essential to rely on verified information to avoid the spread of false news.

  • Dawakin Tofa Local Government Council Fecilitates With Ganduje@74

    Dawakin Tofa Local Government Council Fecilitates With Ganduje@74

    By JABIRU A HASSAN, Kano

    The executive chairman of Dawakin Tofa local government council Honourable Ado Tambai Kwa have facilitated with the APC national Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR on his 74th Birthday anniversary with good will prayers.

    In his message to the APC national chairman, Ado Tambai described Dr. Ganduje as a great politician who contributed towards the Nigeria’s development in a democratic process and good governance.

    He lamented that Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s contribution to democracy has put Nigeria onto a solid political dispensation that actualize resourceful leadership across the three tiers of government with optimum results as witnessed nowadays.

    Honourable Ado Tambai Kwa added that with the many traditional tittles he bagged, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has become a true nationalist who is working selflessly to promote national unity, peaceful coexistence and loving one another despite tribal,religious or sectional differences.

    “On behalf of the legislative and executive arms of Dawakin Tofa local government council, our party members at the local government and wards levels, I congratulates our Mentor and leader, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje OFR, on his 74th anniversary and wish him more progressive years”. He concluded.