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Procurement Act: We will mobilise Nigerians to protest amendments without stakeholders, citizens’ input, NEFGAD tells FG
Procurement Act: We will mobilise Nigerians to protest amendments without stakeholders, citizens’ input, NEFGAD tells FG
By: Michael Mike
Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD), a public procurement advocacy group has warned the federal government against towing the path of seeking amendments to the Public Procurement Act 2007 without stakeholders and citizens input as provided by relevant laws and due legislative process.
The group threatened to mobilize citizens and stakeholders to protest any amendment that fall short of constitutional provisions and necessary legislative guidelines.
The group issued this warning through a statement signed by its Head of Office, Mr. Omoniyi Akingunola and released to the media in Abuja on Tuesday.
The group said it received from reliable authority that “some elements within the system had perfected plans to hurriedly smuggle suffocating and self-serving provisions as amendments to the Act with timeline clandestinely allotted to the amendment processes with blatant disregard to stakeholders and citizen’s input.”
The group further stated that the interested parties already have drafted manuscripts to be handed-out to The constituted Public Procurement Act amendment committee and the National Assembly with no regard to citizens and stakeholders’ input.
The group however said it has nothing against the amendment of the Public Procurement Act which it said was long overdue, but insisted that the right and due process of amendment must be followed as stated in the Nigerian constitution. This due process, it said, includes citizens and stakeholders’ engagement and input, through a call for memoranda and public hearing.
The group said it frowned at a situation whereby for over a month, the only information in the public regarding proposed amendment to such an important law on public procurement was the inauguration of the selected amendment committee.
Akingunola said public procurement is the lifewire of government and the main channel through which governments serve the people, it constitutes over 90percent of entire government spendings, hence any legal framework around its operations must seek the input of people it intend to serve. The people must have a say in the way and manner they want to be served and catered for.
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Procurement Act: We will mobilise Nigerians to protest amendments without stakeholders, citizens’ input, NEFGAD tells FG
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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