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Civil society demand free electricity metres to residents of Borno State
Civil society demand free electricity metres to residents of Borno State
By: Bodunrin Kayode
The network of Civil society organizations in Borno state (NECSOB) led by its Executive Director Comrade Bulama Abiso has demanded for the resumption of distribution of free digital metres for electricity supplies to residents of Borno State.
The Executive Director stressed during a news conference in Maiduguri today that the pains of the ongoing adjustment of the Nigerian economy is felt in a double way by Borno residents which is why the Yola electricity should not hoard metres meant for the people.
He said that as far as this country is concerned, north east Nigeria has been heavily starved of supplies of electricity adding that something must be done urgently to correct this anomaly.
Comrade Abiso, called for the reversal of many anti people policies like shortage of electricity which he noted were not in the interest of residents because they were hurting them.
He said they are equally worried about the fact that the gas plant was not getting enough attention at this auspices time which is why the state capital has been in darkness for over two weeks now.
On the recent pronouncement of the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) the Executive Director went on: “It came to us as a great shock, the recent announcement by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory
Commission (NERC) on the increase in electricity tariff without putting into account the current
predicaments faced by the people of Borno State.
” We’re also appealing to the Federal Government, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission
(NERC), the Generation Companies (GENCO), Transmission Companies of Nigeria (TCN), the Borno State Government and all other relevant stakeholders to support the reversal of this anti people policy, considering the current recovery status of the state.
“We also observed with dismay how the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) distributes
electricity bills for the months of February and March to households when there has been no power
supply.
” This concern is affecting every household on the estimated billing system occasioned by
abrupt disruption of free installation of the metering systems that ought to have been distributed but are now alleged to be sold at exorbitant prices. Consequently, we are requesting that YEDC resumes the free distribution and installation of the metering system to every household in Borno state.
“We’re equally calling on the YEDC to also enhance its distribution capacity to sufficiently meet the demands of the metropolis. This is because we have observed in recent times that the consequences associated with the lack of power supply in the state includes: loss and dysfunctional state of small businesses and livelihood ventures, water scarcity across the state and has led to untold hardship faced by people in the revered month of Ramadan;
Civil society demand free electricity metres to residents of Borno State
Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has presented working tools to 150 almajirai students trained in vocational skills by his administration.
The training covered a variety of trades, including electrical installation and repair work, solar installation and repair work, leatherwork, welding, carpentry and building construction.
The initiative also includes cash support to enable beneficiaries to start their trades and contribute to the society’s development.
It seeks to enhance individual capabilities, uplift communities and provide almajirai with sustainable pathways to economic independence.
Delivering his address, Governor Zulum emphasised that his administration would continue to foster opportunities for the almajiri learners to secure a brighter future.
“By attending this training programme, you have taken a crucial step towards securing your future; equipped with new skills, you now have the power to transform your dreams into
reality.
“As the Governor of Borno State, I assure you that our Government remains fully committed to supporting the Sangaya Islamic education. We will continue investing in Sangaya educational resources to ensure every learner can access quality teaching and learning essentials,” he stated.
Zulum, however, expressed concern about the rising cases of molestation of children in the guise of teaching Islamic education.
He said: “I would like to take this opportunity to address a critical concern: the safety and well-being of our Sangaya learners. I stand firm in the commitment that the Borno State Government will not tolerate any form of molestation or violence, such as caning against any Almajiri. Every one of you, regardless of your background, deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
“Our commitment to safeguarding children extends beyond the Almajiri; it encompasses all children. We must work collectively to ensure our society embraces every child without prejudice. This pledge is not merely a statement; it is a call to action for every parent, educator, and community leader to safeguard the rights of our Sangaya learners.”
Speaking earlier, the chairman of Borno Sangaya Board, Kalifa Aliyu Ahmad Abulfatahi, said the programme was unveiled in 2023 as part of Zulum’s resolve to address the challenges faced by almajiri children who are traditionally engaged in Islamic schooling and often lack access to formal education and opportunities.
Sheikh Kalifa noted that the training was organised in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board.
Also speaking, the state Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, who was represented by the Special Adviser in the ministry, Dr Bukar Tijjani, said that besides the training, the ministry had partnered with colleges, including the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies, to provide certification for almajiri learners.
Zulum was accompanied by the members of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba and Hon Usman Zannah, the State APC Chairman, Hon Bello Ayuba, Shehu of Borno, ably represented among other dignitaries.
Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills
Elderly Man Abducted by kidnappers n in Sabon Gari, Zaria
By Zagazola Makama
In a disturbing incident early this morning, an elderly man was kidnapped from his residence in Hayin Ojo, Sabon Gari, Zaria.
Police sources said the attack occurred at approximately 0130hrs when a group of armed men invaded the area, firing sporadically, and abducted Alhaji Saidu Mai Gold, aged 65.
The source said that the victim’s relative, reported the incident to the Sabon Gari Police Division around 0800hrs. In response, the Division’s Patrol Team was swiftly mobilized to the scene.
Efforts are currently ongoing to locate and rescue the victim.
Elderly Man Abducted by kidnappers n in Sabon Gari, Zaria
Two Suspected Kidnappers Arrested in Lere LGA, Kauru
By: Zagazola Makama
Security operatives in Lere LGA have successfully apprehended two suspected bandits following a tip-off from local hunters.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspects, identified as Sani Liman, 23, of Unguwan Fa Raminkura, and Murtala Magaji, alias Seto, 25, of Dambata Galadimawa Village in Kauru LGA, were arrested on April 15, 2025, at approximately 1330hrs.
The sources said Police personnel from Saminaka acted swiftly and arrested the suspects
Preliminary investigation has indicated that the two men may be linked to recent kidnapping activities in the region.
Police sources said that they are currently in police custody and will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Two Suspected Kidnappers Arrested in Lere LGA, Kauru
Zulum presents working tools to 150 almajirai trained in vocational skills
Elderly Man Abducted by kidnappers n in Sabon Gari, Zaria
Two Suspected Kidnappers Arrested in Lere LGA, Kauru
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