National News

KULEN ALLAH CATTLE REARERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (KACRAN)

Published

12 months ago

August 1, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

KULEN ALLAH CATTLE REARERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (KACRAN)

By: Michael Mike

Kacran Appeals To Protesters To Suspend Planned Demonstrations And Calls On Federal, State, And Local Governments To Take Necessary Actions.

As the ten-day nationwide protest planned by Nigerian youths and their supporters approaches, there is still no clear indication of dialogue between the Federal Government and the protesters. This lack of communication could lead to severe and undesirable consequences for the peace, unity, and corporate existence of our nation. Therefore, the members of the Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN), an association dedicated to fostering peace and unity between farmers, herders, and the good people of our beloved country, strongly urge the protesters to suspend their planned demonstrations. We also call on the Federal, State, and Local Governments to take the necessary actions to ensure the protest does not occur.

Our urgent appeal to both parties is based on the following reasons:

Although we acknowledge that Nigerians are experiencing severe hardships, including extreme hunger and other difficulties that make life unbearable due to the removal of oil subsidies, increased NEPA bills, and skyrocketing prices of food and essential commodities, we firmly believe that protests will not achieve the desired objectives. Instead, they will likely worsen the situation.

Protests, in our understanding, signify a rejection of certain government policies and programs for specific reasons stated by the protesters. In clearer terms, protests often represent a revolt against government actions or unwelcome decisions, which frequently lead to clashes between protesters and government forces, resulting in loss of lives and property, including those of innocent people who have no involvement in the protests.

Another reason for our serious concern is that protests in Nigeria often produce highly regrettable negative outcomes, which are more harmful to the protesters, the governed, and the rulers than providing solutions to the issues at hand.

In this regard, KACRAN has ample examples to illustrate why we do not support any protests. For instance:

We have witnessed how protests led to the disintegration of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) in 1991.
It is also documented that protests over the increase in the cost of bread from one pound to two devastated Sudan, resulting in the deaths of thousands of Sudanese, many of whom fled the country. Now, the cost of bread has multiplied to 250 Sudanese pounds.
Libya is another example where protests, remotely influenced by Western powers, led to the downfall of the country. Libyans who celebrated the death of their leader, Muammar Gaddafi, are now suffering immensely.
The pitiable situation in Kenya due to ongoing protests, where many Kenyans have been brutally killed, is another example of why protests are detrimental, especially in the Third World countries of Africa where hooliganism often prevails.
In Nigeria, the recent End SARS protests in Lagos resulted in the deaths of many innocent people, the burning of numerous places, and the destruction of properties worth billions of Naira.

The fact that protests are likely to be hijacked by miscreants who steal and destroy property is another reason why protests are not the solution to our current problems of high living costs and lack of money to buy the now costly food.

Lastly, KACRAN is not in favor of protests and urges the parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue to solve our country’s economic hardships. Nationwide protests pose a threat to Nigeria’s security and corporate existence, potentially leading to anarchy, statelessness, and, God forbid, disintegration. This would create a terrible situation where everyone is against everyone else.

KACRAN’s Suggestions for Solving Our Problems:

We fervently call on the protesters to suspend their planned demonstrations.
We urge the Federal, State, and Local Governments to take the necessary actions to achieve a permanent solution to our problems.
At the federal level, we call on the Federal Government to thoroughly review the protesters’ demands with a view to addressing what can be met. We also plead with the protesters to reduce their demands to acceptable levels.

Among the protesters’ demands, we passionately request the Federal Government to reconsider the removal of oil subsidies and the increase in NEPA bills.

We also call on the Federal Government to embark on the massive importation of food and other essential commodities and distribute them free of charge to our people for at least three months before the harvest period.

Additionally, we call on the Federal Government to provide relief materials and substantial funds to its commissions, such as the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and other commissions in the country, to purchase and distribute food and other essential materials to Nigerians for free.

At the state level, we call on our State Governments to purchase large quantities of food items and distribute them through their State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMA) and other relevant agencies.

We also urge our Local Governments to allocate substantial funds to purchase food items for immediate distribution to our local populace, particularly those residing in villages and rural areas.

In conclusion, given the severe consequences associated with nationwide protests as outlined above, we passionately request and appeal to our youths to suspend their planned demonstrations. We also urge our Federal, State, and Local Governments, in the interest of peace and unity in our beloved country, to promptly address the protesters’ demands and consider KACRAN’s additional suggestions for timely implementation.

KULEN ALLAH CATTLE REARERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (KACRAN)

National News

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

Published

19 hours ago

July 18, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI:

Late ex-President Pursued Justice With Sincerity

** Says Tinubu-led FG will continue to protect dignity of the Buhari family, Katsina people

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has said the late former President Muhammadu Buhari pursued justice with the utmost sincerity.

And in death, according to Senator Shettima, the late Buhari has also proved to the world that he was, indeed, one of the greatest sons of Africa.

The Vice President stated this on Thursday during the 3rd day prayers (Fidau) offered for the repose of the soul of the former Nigerian leader, at his residence in Daura, Katsina State.

“Ibn Khaldun reminds us that the goal of civilisation is the attainment of justice. Justice is the bone that holds human society together. It was justice, as he understood it, that President Muhammadu Buhari pursued – often misunderstood, but always with sincerity.

“When you are in power, your friends know you; when you are out of power, you know your friends. In death, President Muhammadu Buhari has proved to the world that he is, indeed, the greatest son of Africa. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward him with Aljannah. May Allah forgive his shortcomings,” he prayed.

On behalf of his boss, President Bola Tinubu, VP Shettima expressed gratitude to Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State for the reception and kind gesture accorded to the Federal Government delegation throughout their stay in the state.

“We have been together with the governor right from London to Nigeria. He gave a warm reception and all the necessary support,” he said, adding that President Tinubu is personally pained by the loss of his friend, brother and political soulmate.

The VP assured that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Tinubu, “will continue to protect the image and dignity of Buhari’s family and the entire people of Katsina State.”

He revealed that he will proceed to Abuja with the family of the late former President to attend a Special Valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) in honour of the deceased.

Earlier, the governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Radda, said the deceased rendered selfless service to the nation, maintaining that nobody can dispute the fact that he was an honest and just person.

He thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for honouring the remains of late President Buhari, saying, “We, the people of Katsina State, don’t have a word to thank the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has shown compassion, respect for the people of Katsina State and the nation entirely. Tinubu has allowed 25 members of his cabinet, under the leadership of Vice President Shettima, to be in Katsina State. The 25 Ministers supported us at this trying moment, and we also thank the President for declaring a public holiday on the day Buhari was laid to rest,” Governor Radda added.

Also, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the late Buhari has an important place in the national history of Nigeria, appealing to all Nigerians to continue to pray for the repose of the soul of the former President, as reminded by Islamic clerics.

“We want to thank all of you on behalf of the 25 ministers, as directed by Mr President, for finding time to offer prayers for our President and also participate in this national assignment. Indeed, former President Buhari belongs to Daura, Katsina, Nigeria, and the world,” the minister said.

Earlier, the prayer session was opened by the former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, who emphasised the need for constant prayers for all the departed souls, including late President Buhari.

Pantami further observed that prayer for the departed soul should not be restricted to a number of days.

Similarly, the Minister of State Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Abudullahi, on behalf of the members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), prayed Almighty Allah to cover the grave of Buhari with mercy and admit him into Aljannah.

Islamic scholars who offered prayer include Prof. Ibrahim Makari of the Abuja National Mosque; Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, Bishop of Katsina; Mamman Musa; Khalifa Mohammad Nasir; and Malam Hassan Daura, among others.

Other dignitaries present at the prayer session are former Vice President Namadi Sambo; Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN); Ambassador Adamu Daura; former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari; former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adu, and former National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno.

Others are former Director-General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai; Business Mogul, Mohammed Indimi; Buhari’s nephew, Mamman Daura, former FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, the Emirs of Katsina, Daura and Bade; the Sultan of Maradi from the Niger Republic, and thousands of sympathisers from various walks of life.

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

National News

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

Published

3 days ago

July 16, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other African leaders in Daura, Katsina State, for the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, 13 July 2025, in a London hospital.

Earlier in the day, President Tinubu received the remains of the former President at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina, where he inspected a military guard of honour before the Nigerian Air Force jet conveying the casket arrived at 1:51 p.m.

The casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, was conveyed by a senior military pallbearer team led by Major General Mike Alechenu, and wheeled in a solemn procession to the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” flanked by a full military guard of honour.

Vice President Shettima had accompanied the body of the late President from London, alongside the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the late President’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and close family members.

Upon arrival in Daura, the remains of President Buhari were received by a large crowd of mourners chanting praises of Allah and offering prayers for his soul. The body was later interred at his private residence in a ceremony attended by a cross-section of dignitaries and ordinary citizens alike.

President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima were joined at the burial by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, Prime Minister of Niger Republic Ali Lamine Zeine, and former President of Niger Issoufou Mahamadou. Also in attendance were governors, ministers, service chiefs, former governors, captains of industry, Islamic clerics, and representatives from across the continent, including an envoy of the President of Chad.

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

National News

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

Published

3 days ago

July 15, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

By: Michael Michael

Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.

A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.

It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.

In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.

He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.

The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”

He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.

He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.

He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.

The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.

Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.

The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria