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Author: Zubairu Idris

  • Katsina gets committee to review books on investment opportunities 

    Books
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The Katsina  Government has inaugurated a 12-member committee to review three books that highlighted the state’s investment opportunities.
    Gov Dikko Radda, at the inauguration on Thursday in Katsina, said that the committee was mandated to review the three books.
    Radda, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba-Faskari, said the committee would also examine the texts, images and overall presentation of the books.
    He said the other terms of reference included evaluating the books accuracy, quality and relevance to Katsina in history, culture and tradition.
    Others were to identify any error, inaccuracies or misleading information that might be contained in the books.
    The governor further said the committee would provide constructive feedback and recommendations for improvement, and requested for additional information or clarification from the  authors or publishers, if necessary.
    He said the committee has two weeks to submit its reports.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the books are: Katsina Unveiled, Katsina ICONS and Katsina Traditions.
    Responding on behalf of the committee, its  Vice Chairman, Mr Muttaqa Rabe-Darma, thanked the government for finding them worthy of the job.
    He said the books would sell Katsina to the outside world.
    “They will help to attract people to come to the state and invest.
    “As long as people realise that there are things they want in Katsina, they will come,” Rabe-Darma  said.
    He assured that the committee members would work tirelessly to justify the confidence reposed in them.
    Prof. Sani Abubakar-Lugga would serve as Chairman, Commissioners for Information, Commerce and Trade, would serve as members, among others, while the Director,  Press SSG’s Office, Mr Abdullahi Aliyu-Yar’adua, would serve as Secretary.
    ZI/CHOM/BRM
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    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Bashir Rabe Mani

  • NDLEA nabs 1, 344 drug suspects, alleged traffickers in Katsina — Commander 

    NDLEA nabs 1, 344 drug suspects, alleged traffickers in Katsina — Commander
    Arrest
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 20, 2024 (NAN) The  National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Katsina State Command has arrested 1, 344 people for alleged drug abuse and trafficking in one year.
    The NDLEA Commander in the state, Mr Hassan Sani-Abubakar, made the disclosure at a news briefing as part of the activities to commemorate the 2024 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
    Sani-Abubakar said that the suspects were apprehended from July 2023, when the commander assumed duty, to date.
    He said the number comprised women and those who briefly counseled and released
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2024 theme  is: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”.
    He said the command had secured the conviction of 112 cases and 120 cases were pending at various courts.
    According to him, 136 suspects were counseled and admitted at its facility for rehabilitation.
    Sani-Abubakar revealed that 1, 161.831kilograms  of cannabis sativa, 77.071 kg of psychotropic substances and 80.400 kg of other controlled drugs were recovered during the period under review.
    “The rate of drugs and other psychotropic substance abuse and trafficking among the general public in the state  remains alarming and  of concern for the command and government.
    “It cuts across all strata of community members which suggests that everybody is affected either directly or indirectly.
    “It is a crystal fact that most of the people indulging in this inglorious trading of drugs are doing it for its huge economic and financial gains.
    “And to that effect, the command has not relented in its operational tactics and strategies with a mission to cripple anybody found wanting, as we no longer see the drugs in usual places but unconventional business premises,” he said.
    The commander,  therefore,  urged the public to continue to partner with the agency in exposing such bad eggs in the society. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ZI/CHOM/BRM
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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Gov. Radda lauds Yakubu’s appointment as DG budget office 

    Appointment
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 14, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina has applauded the appointment of Mr Tanimu Yakubu as the new Director General of the Budget Office of the Federation.
    He said the appointment was a testament of  Yakubu’s vast experience in fiscal responsibility and economic development.
    The governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ibrahim Kaula-Mohammed, on Friday, in Katsina,  expressed confidence that the appointee would take the office to greater heights.
    “Prior to this national assignment, Yakubu served as Chairman of the Katsina State Development Management Board (KSDMB), a new agency established by Radda to spearhead rapid state development.
    “As its pioneer chairman, Yakubu demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and commitment to sustainable state development.
    “I have utmost confidence in Yakubu’s ability to bring his extensive experience to bear in this new national role, and I wish him resounding success.
    “On behalf of the government and people of Katsina, I extend profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his discerning decision in appointing an experienced and capable citizen to this crucial position,” the governor said.
    He said that people of the state would offer fervent prayers and support for his success.

    Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale had on Thursday announced Tinubu’s approval of Yakubu’s appointment as the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, following the expiration of the tenure of Mr. Ben Akabueze.

    “Yakubu is an accomplished economist and was Chief Economic Adviser to a former President from 2007 to 2010; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria from 2003 to 2007, and Commissioner of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning in Katsina State from 1999 to 2003.

    “The new Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation holds a Master of Business Administration degree in Finance from Wagner College, Staten Island, New York, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the same institution,” Ngelale had said in the statement.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    ZI/CHOM/SOA
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    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Oluwole Sogunle

  • Techology’ll strengthen Nigeria’s democracy– Group

    Techology’ll strengthen Nigeria’s democracy– Group
    Technology
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 12, 2024 (NAN) An NGO, ‘Muryar Talaka’ (masses voice) Awareness Initiative’, has urged the government to intensify efforts in the application of technology and other innovations in the electoral system to strengthen the country’s democracy.
    Its Secretary General, Bashir Dauda, stated this at the one-day roundtable in commemoration of the 2024 Democracy Day, on Wednesday in Katsina.
    He said the roundtable had the theme: “Yes, Democracy”, adding that it was better than  military government.
    “Nigerian democracy is maturing, the last election conducted in Nigeria was a testimony to the growth of democracy.
    “While free and fair elections are a pillar of democracy. What happened in Zamfara  where we saw Dauda Lawal of PDP defeating an incumbent, Bello Matawalle, in Kano, we witnessed how NNPP, a new party, defeated the ruling APC.
    “It was not by coincidence that APC lost to Labour Party (LP) in Lagos State, and how the LP defeated APC in the FCT Abuja.
    “All these are true indications that our democracy is growing, and that people’s votes count as a result of the technology application in the electoral system,” he said.
    That, Dauda said, has contributed immensely in reducing many forms of election malpractice during elections.
    Also speaking, the Executive Secretary, the State Public Complaints and Anti -Corruption Commission, Dr Jamilu Abdussalam, said democracy power was vested in the hands of the people, either directly or through elected representatives.
    He said the key features of democracy included
    popular sovereignty where the ultimate authority lies with the citizens who participate in the decision-making process through voting and other forms of political participation.
    Abdussalam said other key features were political equality, rule of law, protection of minority rights and free and fair election, among others.
    The State Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Malam Muntari Tsagem, commended the group for organizing the roundtable to commemorate the democracy day.
    He said that NOA would join hands with the organisation to enlighten the public on the importance of peaceful elections.
    Tsagem also urged such organisations to collaborate with the agency in discouraging the people on vote buying during elections.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ZI/BRM
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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Democracy Day: Radda seeks unity, tolerance, support for nation’s progress

    Democracy Day: Radda seeks unity, tolerance, support for nation’s progress
    Call
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Gov Dikko Radda of Katsina State has urged Nigerians to intensify efforts in ensuring unity, tolerance, and unwavering support for the nation’s progress as it confronts some formidable challenges.
    Radda made the call in his message for the 2024 Democracy Day, issued by his Chief Press Secretary Mr Ibrahim Kaula, on Wednesday in Katsina.
    “Nigerians should join hands and transcend the boundaries of ethnicity, religion and political divide to build a Nigeria that embodies the true spirit of democracy.
    “A nation where justice, equality and opportunity are the cornerstones of our collective greatness, with reverence for the sacrifices of past heroes and heroines who paved the way for Nigeria’s democratic governance.
    “Their legacy inspires us to forge ahead with determination, purpose and unity in our quest for a better tomorrow,” he said.
    Radda further stressed that the period was a moment of reflection and commemoration, adding, ”we stand in solidarity with every Nigerian facing adversity.
    “We recognize the challenges that have brought our country to its knees, and we share in the aspirations for a brighter future.”
    The Governor further urged Nigerians to fervently pray for the country to enable it overcome the myriad of challenges confronting it.
    “As we confront the obstacles before us, let us cultivate a spirit of tolerance, prayer and support for effective governance.
    “Together, with resilience and determination, we will surmount the challenges that hinder our progress and forge a path towards a prosperous future,” he said.
    Radda reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of all the residents and vowed to overcome the prevailing challenges facing the state.
    On the national anthem, the governor said that he has directed the Ministry of Information to spearhead a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the populace on it.
    “Familiarity with the national anthem is not only a sign of respect for the country, but also a symbol of unity that transcends ethnic, religious and regional divides.
    “I call upon all the people of Katsina State to participate actively in the initiative and encourage communities, schools and religious institutions to incorporate the learning of the national anthem into their activities,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ZI/BRM
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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Gov Radda commiserates with families of Kankara bandits’ attack 

    Commiseration
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 11, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina  has commiserated with the people of Kankara Local Government Area over the bandits attack on Sunday, where no fewer than 20 people were killed.
    Radda, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ibrahim Kaula, on Tuesday, expressed deep sadness over the attack on Gidan-boka village in Kankara Local Government.
    “This senseless violence tragically claimed the lives of 26 people, including brave members of our security agencies.
    “The state government extends its heartfelt condolences to families and loved ones of all those affected.
    “We join the entire state in praying for the repose of the souls of the departed and for comfort for the bereaved families during this difficult time,” the governor stated.
    Radda pointed out that the attack represented a significant setback in the ongoing efforts to ensure safety and security of all Katsina residents.
    The governor, however, recognised the tireless efforts of security forces, who continued to confront the criminals threatening peace in the state.
    He said that his administration remained  firmly committed to eradicating banditry and all forms of criminality within the state.
    According to the governor, the state government is actively working with the Federal Government and all relevant security agencies to implement a comprehensive security strategy to end the menace.
    He further pledged to continue to heighten security presence in Kankara and other vulnerable areas in the state for protection of people’s lives and property.
    The governor, therefore, urged anyone with information about the perpetrators of the attack to avail the authorities with such for necessary action.
    “This is a time for unity and resolve. We urge all Katsina residents to remain calm and cooperate with our security forces by giving them information about the criminals.
    “Together, we will prevail over these forces of darkness and build a safer future for our state,” Radda stated.  (NAN) www.nannews.ng
    ZI/CHOM/IU
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    Edited by Chioma Ugboma / Isaac Ukpoju

  • Anniversary: Tinubu committed to making Nigeria great —- Director

    Anniversary: Tinubu committed to making Nigeria great —- Director
    Tinubu
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The Director, Research and Documentation of the Nigeria First Project Initiative, Mr Bashir Dauda, says President Bola Tinubu is committed to making Nigeria great.
    He, therefore, urged Nigerians to continue supporting his policies and give him the benefit of the doubt.
    Dauda stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Friday in Katsina.
    According to the director, Tinubu has consistently been implementing what he promised Nigerians through initiating policies in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda.
    Dauda said, “I am calling on the citizens to give Mr President the benefit of the doubt by supporting his good policies and persevere with the current economic hardship.
    “The president has just marked one year in office, has additional three years to work for the betterment of the country and its people.
    “It is not good to say Nigerians have exercised too much patience, because some of these policies will yield results after some years.
    “Most of the developed countries in Europe have passed through such difficult and trying moments we are experiencing now in Nigeria.
    “They are now enjoying the sacrifices of their great grandparents.”
    He further called on Nigerians to hold their state Governors responsible for developing their areas and improving their well-being or otherwise.
    “State governments were created to complement the federal government. So, if things are working effectively, lives of the citizens will be better improved,” he said
    The director explained that some successes have been recorded by the administration under the security sector, saying that over 9,000 high profile criminals were eliminated within one year.
    According to him, over 6,000 terrorists were arrested and rescued over 4,000 hostages during the period under review.
    On education, he stated that the government introduced a students’ loan scheme aimed at supporting students from poor families to continue to pursue their education.
    That, he said, was in addition to the creation and upgrading of some tertiary institutions, construction of a number of classrooms for Tsangaya Qur’anic schools, among others.
    “There are progresses in all the sectors. Bear with him and give him more time, I believe you will see more improvements,” he said.
    Meanwhile, some of the state’s residents interviewed complained of economic hardship.
    Malam Sani Abdullahi, a commercial vehicle driver, urged the government to take more measures that would address the increasing inflation in the country.
    “It is unfortunate that if you buy a commodity in the market today, tomorrow you find out that its price has increased.
    “The government should do something about it. Our concern is the poverty and inflation that are biting harder,” he decried.
    Kabir Ahmed, a labourer, explained that people like him were facing hardship particularly in the rural areas.
    He urged the government to ensure that people in the rural areas also benefit from palliative measures aimed at cushioning the poverty rate.
    Malam Musa Garba, a vulcaniser, lamented that due to the poverty and the inflation, “it is hard for people like him to eat three square miles a day.”
    He urged the government to focus attention on further alleviating the suffering of the masses.
    Garba also advised the government to provide fertilizers and other inputs to the farmers at subsidised rates to boost agricultural productivity and bolster food security.(NAN) )www.nannews.ng)
    ZI/BRM
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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Centre organises Qur’anic recitation competition for PLWDs in Katsina

    Centre organises Quranic recitation competition for PLWDs in Katsina
    Competition
    By Zubairu Idris
    Katsina, June 6, 2024 (NAN) “Darul Qur’anil Kareem Wassunnah E-Global Academy”, has organised a Quranic recitation competition for the blind and other People Living with Disability (PWDs) in Katsina State.
    Its Director-General, Malam Ashiru Bala-Yandaki, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Thursday in Katsina.
    He said the competition, scheduled to hold between June 15 and 16,  would have 56 participants for various categories of memorisation of the glorious Quran.
    According to him, the registration is free of charge, saying,”this is part of measures to encourage that group of people to learn how to read the Holy Quran fluently and memorise it.”
    The director -general explained that there were seven categories, but memorisation of two parts (hizbs) was the lowest category, while that of the 60 parts (complete Quran)  would be the highest.
    Bala-Yandaki revealed that the participants should be young PWDs aged from six to 20 years.
    He added that the participants must either be blind or have any other physical deformity to qualify for the competition.
    Bala-Yandaki said that the winners, who are blind would be given braille Quran, braille kits and clothing materials, while others would get copies of the Quran and clothing materials, among other prizes.
    He added that the centre would also try to secure scholarships for the best memorisers within the country and abroad like at the Islamic University, Madinah, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
    The scholar further said that they would conduct a quiz on Quran and Islamic knowledge for 20 deaf and dumb participants who cannot recite due to their hearing-impaired.
    He said that the centre would continue to initiate programmes to encourage the PWDs to continue searching for knowledge and abstain from street begging. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ZI/BRM
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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani