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Grassroot leaders urge Tinubu to focus on policies that address North’s special needs
A group under the aegis of the Arewa Grassroot Leaders Assembly has urged President Bola Tinubu to implement policies that address the special needs of the people in the northern part of the country. The group also expressed readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government for the benefit of the region. The President General of
Grassroot leaders urge Tinubu to focus on policies that address North’s special needs
A group under the aegis of the Arewa Grassroot Leaders Assembly has urged President Bola Tinubu to implement policies that address the special needs of the people in the northern part of the country.
The group also expressed readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government for the benefit of the region.
The President General of the Assembly, Mr. Onogu Collins Monday, who spoke at a press conference weekend in Abuja, however, commended the President for implementing several projects across the country that have direct impact on the lives of the people.
Monday specifically urged Tinubu to reconsider policies that may negatively impact Northern Nigeria, such as inadequate funding for critical infrastructure and social services, and insufficient representation in key government positions.
“We request increased military presence and community-led initiatives to enhance security, particularly in the face of persistent threats from banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
“We also propose investments in agriculture, education, and entrepreneurship programmes to stimulate economic development and address poverty and unemployment,” he said.
Monday further advocated for improved access to quality education and vocational training to address the alarming rates of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria
On healthcare, he recommended increased funding for primary healthcare facilities and personnel to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services.
The group, however, acknowledged President Tinubu’s efforts to prioritise funding for agriculture and education, as well as maintaining good relations with Nigeria’s neighbours.
“The prioritisation of the Sokoto-Badagry Highway and the Trans-Saharan Highway, and measures to fast-track the completion of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, are commendable,” Monday said.
While stressing the need for collective efforts to address the challenges facing the Northern region, he disclosed that the Assembly is making arrangement to host a security summit that would bring together at least 5,000 grassroots and community leaders.
According to him, the summit would be held after consultation with security heads and critical stakeholders.
“We aim to discuss community-led initiatives to enhance security, identify areas of collaboration with security agencies, and develop a comprehensive plan to address insecurity in Northern Nigeria.
“We believe that by working together, we can create a brighter future for Northern Nigeria and contribute to a more prosperous, united Nigeria,” he stressed.
Also speaking, the National Treasurer of the Assembly, Hon. Rukaya Salihu-Umar, said emphasis was being given to insecurity “because there are many factors attached to it which has hindered a lot of things like education, health, economic development, etc.”
“When insecurity is tackled, you know, there will be improvement healthcare, education, service delivery, all these things. Because right now as we are talking to you, most people cannot go to their farms until they negotiate with the bandits. They give them money to allow them to farm. So, I want to say an end to this,” she said.
While lamenting the rate at which people are being kidnapped, killed and displaced in their homes, she said: “Now there are high increase of widows and orphans.
“There are high rates of out-of-school children on the streets. If these things are not taken care of, in the future, they are people that will become armed robbers or bandits.”
In his remarks, the National Publicity Secretary of the Assembly, Chief Joel M. Mawash, stressed the need for unity and collaboration among the people in order to address insecurity in the Northern part of the country.
“I want to put it in this way. There is no person who will come to your house and steal without that person knowing your house. And in knowing your house, he knows every nooks and corners of your house before he succeeds.
“In the Grassroot Leaders’ Assembly, we want to identify among ourselves who are those people that other people are using to destabilize our region. That is why, as grassroot leaders, we need to work with our community leaders.
“Sometimes, our elected councillors at the grassroots are the foundation, the pioneers, and the leaders who knows nooks and crannies of every community.
“So, the government need to work together with councillors, even former councillors, because as a councillor, you come from a community, you know the bad people, you know the good people.
“In trying to get to arrest the situation, our religious and also, community development association leaders must not be left out,” Mawash said.
Grassroot leaders urge Tinubu to focus on policies that address North’s special needs
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- March 1, 2025
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Afenifere faction disowns UK, US members opposing Oba Olaitan’s leadership
A faction of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has dismissed a recent statement issued by individuals claiming to represent the organisation in the United Kingdom and the United States, stating that those behind it were expelled from the group over two years ago. PUNCH Online reports that two groups, under the platform of the United
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A faction of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has dismissed a recent statement issued by individuals claiming to represent the organisation in the United Kingdom and the United States, stating that those behind it were expelled from the group over two years ago. PUNCH Online reports that two groups, under the platform of the United
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- March 1, 2025
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Wike tasks Muslims on Ramadan prayers, Islamic teachings
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has called on Muslims in the country to use the Ramadan fasting period to offer prayers to Allah (SWT) for the peaceful co-existence of the country while also giving their minds and hearts to teachings by Islamic Scholars during the fasting period. Wike, in a statement on
Wike tasks Muslims on Ramadan prayers, Islamic teachings
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has called on Muslims in the country to use the Ramadan fasting period to offer prayers to Allah (SWT) for the peaceful co-existence of the country while also giving their minds and hearts to teachings by Islamic Scholars during the fasting period.
Wike, in a statement on Saturday, by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, said that it was important for Muslims, especially those in the FCT to assist the country with prayers during this Ramadan period.
He said; “Fasting as one of the five pillars of Islam should not be just a period for abstaining from food and drink, the period should also be used to pray fervently for the country.
“It is my plea to our Muslim brothers and sisters to open their hearts and minds to the Tesfir of the Holy Month of Ramadan and allow themselves to be guided by them.”
The Minister congratulated Muslim faithful for seeing the beginning of the 30 days fasting period and prayed that they will all see the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
He said; “I wish all Muslim Faithful a Ramadan filled with joy, and togetherness. May your ibadah be acceptable to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala).This holy month will bring to us peace, prosperity, and endless blessings.
“Ramadan Mubarak.”
Wike tasks Muslims on Ramadan prayers, Islamic teachings
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- March 1, 2025
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Phase one of Israel-Hamas truce set to expire amid uncertain negotiations
The first phase of the Israel-Hamas truce is due to expire on Saturday with negotiations over the next stage still unresolved. Despite intensive talks, there has been no breakthrough on advancing to phase two, which is intended to secure a permanent ceasefire and the release of more hostages. The truce, which began on January 19,
Phase one of Israel-Hamas truce set to expire amid uncertain negotiations
The first phase of the Israel-Hamas truce is due to expire on Saturday with negotiations over the next stage still unresolved.
Despite intensive talks, there has been no breakthrough on advancing to phase two, which is intended to secure a permanent ceasefire and the release of more hostages.
The truce, which began on January 19, 2025, followed 15 months of war triggered by Hamas’s deadly October 7, 2023 attack on Israel — the most devastating in the country’s history.
Since the ceasefire, Gaza militants have released 25 living hostages and returned the bodies of eight others in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an urgent meeting with senior ministers and security officials on Friday, after sending a delegation to Cairo for discussions.
Egyptian officials confirmed that talks focused on whether to extend phase one by 42 days — a move favored by Israel.
However, Hamas is pushing for the immediate start of phase two, which would involve steps toward a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
“The relevant parties have begun intensive talks to discuss the next phases of the truce agreement,” said Egypt’s State Information Service, adding that Israeli, Qatari, and U.S. delegations were present. There was no confirmation of a Hamas delegation in Cairo by early Saturday.
According to Max Rodenbeck of the International Crisis Group, while the second phase is unlikely to begin immediately, he does not expect the ceasefire to collapse either.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged both sides to preserve the fragile ceasefire. “The coming days are critical. The parties must spare no effort to avoid a breakdown of this deal,” he said on Friday.
The truce has allowed more humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, where the UN reports that 69 percent of buildings are damaged or destroyed, and widespread hunger continues to threaten the population.
The Gaza war began when Hamas launched a surprise attack on October 7, 2023, killing 1,218 people, mostly civilians, according to official Israeli figures.
In response, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 48,000 people, according to Gaza’s health ministry, figures that the UN considers reliable.
Of the 251 hostages seized by Hamas, 58 remain in captivity, including 34 who the Israeli military believes are deceased.
Phase one of Israel-Hamas truce set to expire amid uncertain negotiations
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- March 1, 2025
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Natasha asks Akpabio’s wife to stay out of dispute with husband
Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has asked Mrs Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to stay out of the ongoing controversy surrounding allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against her husband. The rift between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate President began when she refused to sit in a designated seat during a Senate session,
Natasha asks Akpabio’s wife to stay out of dispute with husband
Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has asked Mrs Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to stay out of the ongoing controversy surrounding allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against her husband.
The rift between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate President began when she refused to sit in a designated seat during a Senate session, citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules.
The tension escalated further when she appeared on Arise News on Friday, alleging that Akpabio had been blocking her motions, maligning her and intimidating her after she allegedly rejected his sexual advances.
Reacting to the claims, Mrs Akpabio dismissed the allegations at a press conference in Abuja, insisting that both families had shared a longstanding cordial relationship, even before Akpoti-Uduaghan’s marriage.
She described the accusations as baseless.
However, in a letter dated March 1, 2025, addressed to Mrs Akpabio through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan cautioned her against getting involved in the matter.
Titled, ‘Stay Away from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sexual Harassment and Intimidation Allegation Against Senste President Godswill Akpabio To Safeguard Your Sanity and That of Your Family’, the letter emphasized that the allegations were directed at the Senate President and that he should be left to defend himself.
“Our client is not desirous of calling you out into the unfortunate saga concerning her allegations against the Senate President and wishes that you restrain yourself from delving into the obscene circumstances.
“While she has tolerated all the harassment from the Senate President, she was constrained to reveal the unfortunate torture and victimization she has endured in the Red Chambers,” the letter partly read.
Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that she had enough evidence to support her claims, urging Mrs Akpabio to allow her husband to defend himself rather than intervening in the matter.
“Our client has concrete evidence to substantiate her allegations. We suggest that you leave the defense of these allegations to the Senate President to maintain your sanity and that of your family,” the letter added.
She reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for Nigerian women, stressing that, as a family woman, she remained dedicated to upholding family values and principles.
Natasha asks Akpabio’s wife to stay out of dispute with husband
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- March 1, 2025
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Former Nasarawa CAN chairman, Bishop Joseph Masin, dies at 62
Bishop Joseph George Masin, former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Nasarawa State and founder of Word of God Gospel City, has passed away. He died on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Abuja. His death was confirmed by his eldest son, Joseph Masin Jr, who paid tribute to his father in a
Former Nasarawa CAN chairman, Bishop Joseph Masin, dies at 62
Bishop Joseph George Masin, former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Nasarawa State and founder of Word of God Gospel City, has passed away.
He died on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Abuja.
His death was confirmed by his eldest son, Joseph Masin Jr, who paid tribute to his father in a Facebook post, describing him as a hero.
“I know you are sleeping, you are not dead. Rest in Peace Baba,” he wrote.
During his tenure as CAN chairman, he was known for his advocacy for peace and religious harmony.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
Former Nasarawa CAN chairman, Bishop Joseph Masin, dies at 62
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- March 1, 2025
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Police arrested 35 robbery suspects in one week – Lagos PPRO
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested at least 35 traffic robbery suspects in a series of operations conducted within a week, spanning areas from Ajah to Elemoro. Confirming the arrests on Saturday, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that the suspects were apprehended during different tactical operations in the Ajah area. Among those
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The Lagos State Police Command has arrested at least 35 traffic robbery suspects in a series of operations conducted within a week, spanning areas from Ajah to Elemoro. Confirming the arrests on Saturday, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that the suspects were apprehended during different tactical operations in the Ajah area. Among those
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- March 1, 2025
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Ramadan: Ease Nigerians’ burdens, Atiku tells FG
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar, has highlighted the economic hardship facing Nigerians and urged governments at all levels to take concrete steps to ease the burden on citizens. In a statement on his official X page on Friday, Atiku emphasised the importance of generosity, urging Nigerians to
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The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar, has highlighted the economic hardship facing Nigerians and urged governments at all levels to take concrete steps to ease the burden on citizens. In a statement on his official X page on Friday, Atiku emphasised the importance of generosity, urging Nigerians to
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- March 1, 2025
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Ogun confirms 415 temporary health workers as permanent staff
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved the regularisation and absorption of 415 temporary health workers across the state-owned hospitals into the state pensionable workforce. Speaking during the regularisation exercise held on Friday at the Staff Development Centre, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, the state capital, the Permanent Secretary of the Hospitals Management Board, Olayinka Elemide, thanked Abiodun
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Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved the regularisation and absorption of 415 temporary health workers across the state-owned hospitals into the state pensionable workforce. Speaking during the regularisation exercise held on Friday at the Staff Development Centre, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, the state capital, the Permanent Secretary of the Hospitals Management Board, Olayinka Elemide, thanked Abiodun
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- March 1, 2025
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Adamawa Govt moves to connect LGAs to internet
The Adamawa State Government has commenced a process to link all its 21 local government areas to the internet. The government is targeting schools and other public institutions in the LGAs. The Deputy Governor, Professor Kaletapwa Farauta, disclosed this at the end of a training which the state organized in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications
Adamawa Govt moves to connect LGAs to internet
The Adamawa State Government has commenced a process to link all its 21 local government areas to the internet.
The government is targeting schools and other public institutions in the LGAs.
The Deputy Governor, Professor Kaletapwa Farauta, disclosed this at the end of a training which the state organized in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Satellite, NIGCOMSAT.
Resource persons at the training which took place at the Adamawa State Polytechnic Yola, taught 100 youths to address internet connectivity especially in rural areas.
During the graduation ceremony of the training which focused on cyber security, disaster management and rural connectivity challenges, Farauta said the government is leveraging on satellite and fiber connectivity to bridge the digital divide even in the remotest rural areas.
According to her, “Government is collaborating with Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy to provide high speed internet connectivity to all schools, primary health care centers and other public institutions.”
The deputy governor also said the state government has approved digitalization of the state civil service records to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure real time access to critical government data.
She said the government’s embrace of empowerment program on Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) and Spacehack 2025 initiative was in line with the approved establishment of compact modular oneGov data center in the state to connect MDAs for seamless data sharing to enhance transparency.
The Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT, Jane Egerton, who also spoke on the occasion, said that plans have been concluded to provide broadband connectivity to the 21 local government areas of Adamawa State.
Adamawa Govt moves to connect LGAs to internet