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AT SIR AHMADU BELLO FORUM: North’s Development Central To Nigeria’s Prosperity, President Tinubu Declares

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AT SIR AHMADU BELLO FORUM: North’s Development Central To Nigeria’s Prosperity, President Tinubu Declares

*** Targets tech, agric, creative sectors in region’s youth development plan

By: Our Reporter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared on Tuesday that the development of Northern Nigeria remains fundamental to the nation’s prosperity.

Accordingly, the President unveiled a comprehensive youth development strategy spanning multiple key sectors to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.

Speaking during a Stakeholders Roundtable on Northern Youth Development organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Abuja, President Tinubu who was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, invoked the legacy of the late Sardauna of Sokoto and former Premier of Northern Nigeria.

“The late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, was one of the towering giants on whose shoulders we have ascended as a nation. His vision was clear: the North cannot progress in isolation, and Nigeria cannot prosper unless every part of this nation thrives,” he said.

The President warned that “whatever disrupts the growth of one region sets back the entire nation.

“For far too long, we have been taunted as a nation with the most children out of school—a reality that should not elicit pride but provoke urgent action. This alarming statistic has turned the promise of our population into a challenge rather than the dividend it ought to be,” he added.

President Tinubu reechoed his administration’s pioneering youth development initiatives, including the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and the Presidential Initiative for Youth Enterprise Clusters.

“Our creative and digital economy is another goldmine,” the President said, outlining programmes such as the Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP).

He listed other programmes to include the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) for higher education access, Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) for digital entrepreneurship, the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) for global market participation, Youth Enterprise Clusters for business development, and the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme to address accommodation needs.

On agriculture, President Tinubu emphasised the North’s strategic importance, saying, “Investments in agriculture and industrialisation will further position the North as Nigeria’s foremost agricultural hub.”

The President also announced plans for a National Youth Development Bank and a Youth Data Bank, describing them as crucial tools for “providing financial and informational support” to young Nigerians.

Addressing the region’s security challenges, President Tinubu further outlined measures “to restore stability to the North,” including “strengthening community policing, rehabilitating displaced persons, and addressing cross-border challenges like smuggling and insurgency.”

With Nigeria projected to become the world’s third-largest nation by 2050, he emphasised the urgency of the moment, just as he said, “By 2050, Nigeria will become the third-largest nation globally, with three-quarters of our citizens under the age of 21.

“Our challenge here is to engineer a transition towards a federation defined by order, stability, and safety,” he added, noting that “this task is both urgent and achievable.”

The President also made a direct challenge to young Nigerians: “You are not just the future of this nation—you are its present. Your energy, ideas, and determination are already shaping our policies and programmes.”

He also emphasised the role of local government autonomy, stating that “for the dividends of democracy to reach every corner of our nation, we must empower local governments to serve as active pipelines of governance.

“Our commitment is to provide you with the skill set and opportunities to thrive in a competitive world,” President Tinubu further assured.

He added that the administration’s promise is “to unlock the potential of the Nigerian youth, ensuring that their dreams transform Nigeria into an enduring symbol of democracy, development, and progress.”

Earlier, former Governor of Niger State and Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, noted that the event marked the Foundation’s 15th anniversary.

He said, “The youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the driving force of our present and our future. Addressing their concerns is paramount to the stability and progress of our society.”

Dr Aliyu urged the government to take the recommendations from the discussions seriously for the progress and well-being of Northern Nigeria.

“It is imperative that we approach these discussions with open minds and a collaborative spirit, recognizing that the solutions we seek will require collective effort,” Aliyu added.

Also, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar II, emphasised the critical role of youth education in national development.

The Sultan said, “Our youths are the foundation of any development we envisage in our society. They are not just leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today.”

The royal father further highlighted the importance of continuous dialogue with the youth, stating that “forums like this must be held continuously to dialogue with our youths across the northern states.”

He emphasised the primacy of education, asserting that “education is the strongest legacy any leader can leave to society.

“Without education, you are a nobody. I believe in infrastructural development like roads and bridges but more money should be spent educating our children,” he maintained.

Urging the government to prioritise education, the Sultan said, “We must ensure that our children are educated. Education must be at the top of the priority of government.

“In Islam, if you don’t even know how to pray and how to worship Allah; if you are an illiterate person, you cannot worship Allah, that is why education is very important. That is why we need to dwell more on how we can ensure that our children are educated.”

AT SIR AHMADU BELLO FORUM: North’s Development Central To Nigeria’s Prosperity, President Tinubu Declares

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Nana Shettima at 50: Happy Golden Anniversary to the woman standing tall on this side of life with VP Kashim Shettima.

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Nana Shettima at 50: Happy Golden Anniversary to the woman standing tall on this side of life with VP Kashim Shettima.

By: Dr. James BWALA

Nana Shettima’s 50th birthday marks a significant milestone, celebrating not only her personal achievements but also her role as a steadfast partner to Vice President Kashim Shettima. As the Vice Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Nana Shettima has demonstrated unwavering commitment to grassroots development and social welfare, exemplified by her recent visit to Calabar, where she distributed food items to vulnerable communities. Her efforts reflect a profound dedication to humanitarian causes, reinforcing her stature as a respected public figure.

Beyond philanthropy, Nana Shettima embodies resilience and grace in navigating the complexities of public life alongside Nigeria’s vice president. The celebration of her golden anniversary with VP Kashim Shettima underscores their partnership both in private and public spheres. This milestone is a testament to her enduring influence and the vital role she plays on “this side of life,” standing tall amidst challenges while inspiring many through service and leadership. 

Her journey to this day is a beacon of hope, illustrating how steadfast dedication to community upliftment can forge pathways for sustainable change and empowerment. Her unwavering dedication to societal betterment has not only enriched countless lives but also set a benchmark for compassionate leadership in the nation. Her leadership style, defined by empathy and inclusivity, continues to inspire a new generation of women leaders who aspire to effect meaningful change within their communities. Her influence extends beyond national borders, where her advocacy for women’s empowerment and education resonates on international platforms, further solidifying her legacy as a transformative leader. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/nigeria-buharis-death-has-thrown-the-adc-coalition-into-chaos-as-plans-to-ride-the-former-presidents-political-fortunes-against-tinubu-and-shettima-in-2027-collapsed/

Nana Shettima’s tireless advocacy for gender equality and her strategic initiatives in educational development underscore the profound impact of her work, fostering a legacy that champions the rights and potential of women across various sectors. Her efforts in grassroots development, as evidenced by her active role in initiatives like the Renewed Hope Initiative, have been pivotal in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities and fostering societal progress. Her presence at events such as her recent visit to Cross River State, where she was warmly welcomed by Governor Bassey Otu, underscores her commitment to grassroots development and the empowerment of vulnerable groups. Her recent endeavors, including the distribution of food items during her visit to Cross River State, highlight her active engagement in addressing the immediate needs of those most vulnerable, reinforcing her commitment to fostering resilience and hope within these communities. 

Nana’s strategic vision and compassionate leadership continue to bridge gaps in access to essential resources, empowering women and enriching communities across Nigeria. Her steadfast dedication to uplifting the lives of those around her continues to inspire many, as she remains a beacon of hope and progress in Nigeria’s journey towards an equitable future.

Uwar Marayu”—The Mother of Orphans, as you are fondly called—represents a beacon of compassion and resilience within our community. Your unwavering dedication to the welfare of orphans exemplifies the highest ideals of empathy and selflessness. Over the past fifty years, your tireless efforts have transformed countless lives, providing not only material support but also emotional guidance and a sense of belonging to those who might otherwise feel forgotten.

As we celebrate this remarkable 50th anniversary, we acknowledge the profound impact you have made on both individual lives and society at large. Your commitment has fostered hope and opportunity, inspiring others to emulate your example. In praying with you and your family during this milestone, we invoke blessings upon your continued journey.

May Allah grant you enduring wisdom and courage as you persist in stirring more lives toward glory. Your legacy serves as a testament to the power of dedication in uplifting humanity, encouraging us all to contribute meaningfully to our communities. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! 

* James BWALA, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Nana Shettima at 50: Happy Golden Anniversary to the woman standing tall on this side of life with VP Kashim Shettima.

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Police arrest 184 suspected internet fraudsters, terrorism financiers in Delta

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Police arrest 184 suspected internet fraudsters, terrorism financiers in Delta

By: Zagazola Makama

The Delta State Police Command has arrested 184 suspects believed to be involved in internet fraud and terrorism financing during a coordinated raid in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.

Police sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspects were apprehended on Monday evening at the Post Housing Estate, Effurun, following credible intelligence on the activities of a syndicate engaged in cybercrime and suspected terror financing.

According to police sources, the Ekpan Division, the Divisional Police Officer swiftly mobilised a tactical team led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), who conducted the raid at about 5:45 p.m.

During the operation, the police arrested one Kelvin Odini, 33, identified as a key suspect, alongside 183 others allegedly caught in the act.

Items recovered from the scene include 273 assorted laptops, one iPad, 97 mobile phones, one table phone, nine laptop chargers, and two WiFi routers.

All suspects and the recovered exhibits have been taken into custody at the divisional headquarters.

The sources added that the police have commenced a thorough investigation into the matter, with efforts ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the criminal network.
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Plateau Governor: Stop the Hypocrisy – Face the Root of the Crisis

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Plateau Governor: Stop the Hypocrisy – Face the Root of the Crisis

By: Zagazola Makama

So now, Governor Caleb Mutfwang and his government have suddenly discovered that soldiers are no longer effective, and that mobile police officers yes, the same overstretched MOPOL will magically solve what years of denial and silence have failed to address. How convenient.

Let’s be blunt: the security situation in Plateau State is not failing because soldiers are stationed in the wrong locations. It is failing because the state government, past and present, has consistently refused to tackle the root causes of the crisis, particularly the unending farmer-herder conflict as well as the ethno religious that continues to fester like an open wound.

The government always finds its voice when one side of the conflict suffers, calling press conferences, rushing to burnt villages, and shedding crocodile tears for the cameras. Yet when violence is meted out in retaliation often after provocative attacks, land disputes, or extrajudicial killings as well as the mass killings of livestock, the same government goes mute, acting as though nothing happened. What is this if not a dangerous double standard?

Let’s talk facts. Most of these attacks are a sad cycle that has been allowed to spiral because no one is ever held accountable. Communities are sacked, women raped, children slaughtered, yet nobody is arrested, tried, or punished. There is never compensation for victims, no justice, no closure. Just empty condemnations and useless rhetorics.

If you’re serious about peace, Governor Mutfwang, then start by ending the conspiracy of silence. Acknowledge all victims. And stop the killings orchestrated by the state armed militias and vigilante on the other side. Until the government begins to treat both sides of the conflict with equal sincerity, until justice is served without bias, then spare us the hypocrisy of blaming soldiers or hailing mobile policemen as saviours.

This crisis will not be solved with knee-jerk rotations or media pity parades. It will only end when you stop pretending to be shocked by the consequences of your own government’s negligence and failures. Engage in sincere dialogue, listen to all stakeholders, and most importantly, end the extrajudicial killings and selective outrage.

Until then, blaming the military is nothing but a cheap excuse.

Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad Region

Plateau Governor: Stop the Hypocrisy – Face the Root of the Crisis

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