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Guterres Calls for Recommitment to Protection of Fundamental Freedoms

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Guterres Calls for Recommitment to Protection of Fundamental Freedoms

By: Michael Mike

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged the international community to recommit to the protection of fundamental freedoms, warning that human rights are increasingly under threat worldwide.

Guterres made the call in his annual message to mark Human Rights Day, commemorated globally.

Guterres, whose message was read by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, at the celebration of 30th Anniversary celebration of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), reflected on the legacy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted nearly 80 years ago, describing it as a “philosophical and political breakthrough” that remains the foundation of modern international cooperation.

The declaration, he noted, laid out the basic civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights required for every person to “survive and thrive.”

He however cautioned that the world is experiencing a disturbing erosion of these rights. “Recent years have brought a shrinking of civic space,” he said. “We have grave violations that signal a flagrant disregard for rights, and a callous indifference to human suffering.”

He noted that despite these setbacks, change is possible when governments, institutions and citizens work together.

He highlighted the role of the United Nations in supporting vulnerable populations through activities such as food assistance, shelter provision, education support, election monitoring, environmental protection, women’s empowerment and peacebuilding.

“This work depends on all people, everywhere, taking a stand,” he emphasised. “When we protect the most vulnerable, when we refuse to look away, when we speak up for the institutions that speak up for us, we keep human rights alive.”

He underscored that human rights must never be sacrificed for political gain or economic interests. “Our rights should never take second place to profit or power,” Guterres said. “Let us unite to protect them, for the dignity and freedom of all.”

He noted that Human Rights Day 2025 continues the global call for renewed commitment to justice, equality and universal freedoms at a time of rising conflict, displacement and social inequality.

On his part, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu restated the Commission’s commitment to advancing freedom, equality and justice in Nigeria.

Ojukwu who led the commission on symbolic “Walk for Human Rights” in Abuja, said a lot needs to be done to safeguard human rights.

NHRC, which also used the day to commemorate the 2025 International Human Rights Day, welcomed stakeholders, partners and human rights defenders to the celebration,

Ojukwu described the event as a moment of gratitude and reflection, noting that the Commission has, since its establishment in 1995, remained a beacon for the protection and enforcement of human rights across the country.

He said: “This year’s Human Rights Day is special,” he said. “It marks three decades of dedicated service to humanity by Nigeria’s National Human Rights Institution. It is also an opportunity to honour exceptional partners whose support has strengthened our work over the years.”

Ojukwu emphasised that the anniversary represents both a journey and a reaffirmation: a journey that began with the vision of entrenching freedom, equality and justice, and a reaffirmation of the Commission’s resolve despite persistent challenges including insecurity and socio-economic pressures.

He noted that the annual walk was not a protest but a demonstration of unity and determination. “We walk not in anger, but with purpose—to defend human rights. Not as spectators, but as active participants in building a Nigeria where every voice counts and no one is left behind,” he said.

The Executive Secretary stressed that human rights can only thrive in societies that embrace harmony, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. He added that the awards presented during the ceremony were a tribute to organisations and individuals whose courage and consistency have helped strengthen the Commission’s mandate.

Reaffirming the NHRC’s statutory duty, Ojukwu noted that protecting and promoting human rights cannot be the responsibility of the Commission alone. He called for collaboration across ministries, government agencies, the private sector and communities.

He appealed that: “Together, let us build a nation where human rights are not distant ambitions but everyday realities,” he urged. “Our collective effort remains the driver of progress.”

Guterres Calls for Recommitment to Protection of Fundamental Freedoms

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Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio

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Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio

… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Tuesday, officially opened a newly constructed 48-classroom High Islamic College in Gubio Local Government Area of northern Borno.

The state-of-the-art institution is designed to offer a hybrid curriculum that integrates western education with traditional sangaya (Qur’anic) educational system.

Zulum had introduced an integrated policy framework which aims to provide students with a holistic education, grounding them in both religious principles and contemporary academic knowledge.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Zulum emphasised that the college is structured to ensure its graduates are not only deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship but are also fully equipped and qualified to pursue higher education in conventional institutions.

“Our focus has been on revitalising the system by preserving its rich tradition of Islamic scholarship while introducing modern subjects and vocational skills. We recognise the historic role of sangaya education in shaping moral values, discipline, and learning within our communities, while also equipping learners with essential skills in literacy, numeracy, science, technology, foundational English, and vocational training to enable them to function effectively and competitively in today’s society.”

“Through institutions operating under the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) approved curriculum, sangaya learners are now receiving a balanced education that integrates Islamic Studies with modern knowledge. These reforms have created clear pathways for graduates to obtain O-Level equivalent certification and, where they so desire, progress to higher institutions of learning to further develop their potential.”

The facility, in addition to the 48 classrooms, also features administrative blocks and a library. It is expected to serve hundreds of students from Gubio and surrounding communities, reducing the need for children to travel far from home for quality integrated education.

Zulum also commissioned the Gubio II Junior Day Secondary School, executed by Borno State Government. During a tour of the facilities, the Commissioner for Education, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, explained that classrooms are intended to provide safe and inclusive learning spaces, with a particular focus on improving access for adolescent girls.

… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA

Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has commissioned three projects executed by the Chairman of Gubio Local Government Area, Mali Bulama Mali Gubio.

The projects include Gubio Oil Mills, Zulum Ultramodern Clinic, and Mustapha Gubio Shopping Complex.

The occasions were attended by the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi; Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; and Members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zanah and Engr Bukar Talba.

Other dignitaries include the Speaker Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, commissioners, special advisers and other senior government officials.

Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio

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Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari

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Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari

By: Yahaya Wakili

Governor Mai Mala Buni CON of Yobe State has charged the newly appointed chairman of the Yusufari local government area to consider security of lives and property as the priority of the administration.

Buni gave the warning today while swearing in Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the chairman of the council following the death of Alhaji Bah Abba Aji some few days ago.

According to Buni, the death of the chairman has created a vacuum that must be filled for continuity in governance, and this justifies the appointment of Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the new chairman of the Yusufari local government council.

He urged him to be a good team player for a result-oriented administration that would give members of the council and people of the local government area a sense of belonging.

Governor Buni also urged the new chairman to conduct government business transparently to promote accountability and probity as well as to channel government resources into areas of need that have a direct impact on the lives of the people.

He appealed to the people of the local government area to support the new chairman for a smooth and successful administration that would meet the needs of the people.

Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari

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Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase

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Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase

By: Michael Mike

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has approved a substantial increase in rural allowances for health workers as part of efforts to address the shortage of medical personnel in remote communities across the state.

The governor announced the decision after inspecting several government projects in the northern axis of Borno. The inspection covered Government Secondary School, Gubio; two general hospitals; and ongoing housing developments in Gubio and Magumeri Local Government Areas.

Under the new arrangement, medical doctors posted to rural areas under the State Hospital Management Board will receive a rural allowance equivalent to their full basic salary, representing a 100 per cent increase. Nurses and midwives serving in similar locations will receive a 40 per cent increase in their rural allowances. The policy takes effect from January 1.

Governor Zulum said the move was informed by persistent manpower gaps in public health facilities, particularly in rural communities.

“We are facing serious challenges with human resources for health. Many of our hospitals do not have enough doctors and nurses,” he said. “Our findings show that a good number of medical professionals prefer working with international organisations because the pay is better. We must respond to this reality.”

According to the governor, the improved welfare package is expected to make rural postings more attractive and encourage more qualified personnel to work in general hospitals at the local government level.

He expressed optimism that the incentive would significantly improve healthcare delivery in villages and underserved areas, adding that health workers willing to take up rural postings should report to the State Hospital Management Board.

During his visit to Government Secondary School, Gubio, the governor also directed the immediate provision of essential facilities for the school’s laboratories and library to improve teaching and learning.

The inspection tour was attended by the Senator representing Borno North, Mohammed Tahir Monguno; members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zannah and Engr. Bukar Talba; and several commissioners and senior government officials, including those in charge of information, works and housing, local government affairs, and water resources.

The allowance increase forms part of the Zulum administration’s broader strategy to strengthen public service delivery and improve living conditions in rural communities across Borno State.

Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase

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