BAGO: THE BEST PERFORMING GOVERNOR MAKING HISTORY

BAGO: THE BEST PERFORMING GOVERNOR MAKING HISTORY

By Comrade Musa Mohammed (Moonlight)

The Executive governor of Niger State, Hon.Mohammed Umar Bago, is one of those making history, developing his state and building bridges. He is one of the best performing governors. He is deepening stakeholding who others should emulate .

He opens new frontiers in which he uses projects and programmes to improve the quality of life of his people.

Bago is a man who carries his people along. A very generous, highly principled and passionate person. He is somebody who believes in the corporate existence of Nigeria.

Bago is Indeed, working separately in niger state and attracting the admiration of the citizens.
Without fear of contradiction.

“I have enjoyed the admiration of many because of his practical and pragmatic approach to life and politics.
“Mohammed Bago have a heart that’s always willing to excel”.

The people of Niger state should appreciate Bago’s leadership style because, in one year, we have seen a record of performance by the way he has changed the face of the state.

He has shown that the interest of the people of Niger is his interest.

Majority of the nigerlite are happy to identify and associate with Governor Mohammed Bago.

His administration surpassed the annual good governance target it set while assuming office in May 29th, 2023.

When Bago assumed office in May 29th, 2023 as the Executive Governor of niger state, he had benchmarks and deliverables according to each sectors. His team sets milestones to achieve in education, health, infrastructures, ICT, agriculture, youth and women empowerments among others.

So, governor Mohammed Bago, i can boost and say he performed beyond his plans.

The opposition PDP are still nursing the wound of their electoral defeat. So the party is ashamed to see the positive changes the APC led administration under the able leadership of Hon. Mohammed Umar Bago are recording in Niger state. The achievements are there for all to see.

There is no doubt that Mohammed Bago’s one year and half years in office has witnessed the conceptualisation and commencement of major projects in all sectors that are capable of transforming the economy of niger State and giving the people a new lease of life.

In the last one year, the administration has completed some roads while others are at various stages of completion.

The Governor, articulated his government’s commitment to enhancing the socio-economic framework in rural areas by construction of road and drainage networks across rural local government headquarters, complemented by solar-powered street lighting to prolong economic and social activities into the evening hours as well as fortify security measures.

Under Governor Bago’s leadership, the State has undertaken the ambitious task of renovating and constructing many roads, spanning an impressive over 500 kilometers across Niger’s three senatorial zones.

The road projects reflect Governor Mohammed Bago’s dedication to empowering rural farmers, aiding them in scaling up from subsistence farming to more substantial, medium-scale agricultural operations, marking a year of progress under his governance.

Governor Bago’s administration has been dedicated to improving the educational landscape by upgrading school infrastructure, enhancing teacher training, and providing essential learning resources.

The Niger state government emphasized the transformative power of education, stating that, “Education has the ability to open doors, break down barriers, and pave the way for a brighter future. “Highlighted the administration’s efforts to provide a conducive learning environment for every child in Niger State, including the construction and reconstruction of classrooms which will accommodate thousand of pupils and the provision of learning materials.

Governor Bago’s administration has been dedicated to improving the educational landscape by upgrading school infrastructure, enhancing teacher training, and providing essential learning resources.

it is safe to say that the Governor has redefined governance, taking sustainable development and advancing niger state beyond mere promises. For him, the era of abandoned projects was over in niger, because what we are witnessing is a regime of initiating and delivering quality projects skewed towards leaving behind, an enduring legacy for niger and it’s citizenry.

Lawal Adamu Usman (Mr. LA): The drunken Senator With Adulterous Eyes

Lawal Adamu Usman (Mr. LA): The drunken Senator With Adulterous Eyes

By Comrade Musa Mohammed (Moonlight)

“I am not surprise because the senator representing kaduna central senatorial district (MR. LA), is a drunken Master, (always intoxication)”.

Some senators are living up to the billing, others have chosen the path of being bench warmers.

The 109 members currently in the Senate – kaduna Central remains without a Senator for over one year now – no less than 10 of them have earned the unenviable ranks of bench warmers, back benchers and staunch truants. In contrast to the vibrant like other senators.

This class of senators which SENATOR LAWAL ADAMU USMAN (MR. LA) is the class captain, are not only of concern to their constituents but may justifiably be accused of not living up to the billing with respect to their huge earnings.

Senator Lawal Adamu Mr LA, who’s the worst among this lot who have never moved a motion; made little or no contributions to debates; barely have bills to their names; hardly visible in committee assignments; and have never raised a point of order to as much as call attention to a matter of public concern to their constituents.

Mr. LA, the class captain of those who specialize only in seconding motions and mouthing ‘ayes’ or ‘nays’ whenever a question is put; while others are only just interested in party politics at the total detriment of legislative duties.

Mr. LA has no record per motions and bills and it is possible his attendance at plenary falls below acceptable thresholds. He is certainly the captain of this class.

He has not sponsored a bill, presented a motion, nor even seconded a contribution since 2023.

He is hardly present during plenary, making him one of the bench warmers of the senate. nothing remarkable has been heard of the senator who came into the red chamber with so much expectation.

He has been caught sleeping on duty on several times during plenary session.

A report shows that Senator Lawal Adamu Mr. LA, is among the senators spent more than one year without sponsoring any bill of their own.

The number is a sharp contrast from more than 50 senators who have sponsored at least one bill in the legislative body.

Senator Lawal Adamu Mr LA is amongst those i call ‘yes master leaders’ because they always say yes to what others are saying with No contributions of their own.

But is there any need of their collecting salary for doing nothing? President Tinubu and the law should take take note. Nigeria need their salaries for hospitals, schools and borehole project.

I am not surprise because the senator representing kaduna central senatorial district (MR. LA), is a drunken Master, (always intoxication), he has nothing to offer to his constituent and Nigeria except embezzlement of public funds. so why should we expect good from him?

How do we pay people like MR. LA so much for doing NOTHING for us?
How many laws have he made for our benefit?

Alleged Assassination attempt: Group Accuses Kaduna Senator of Raising False Alarm

Alleged Assassination attempt: Group Accuses Kaduna Senator of Raising False Alarm

… Queries veracity of the claim

Progressives Forum for Kaduna Development (KFKD) has dismissed the claim of attack by the Senator representing Kaduna Senatorial District, Senator Lawal Adamu popularly known as Mr. LA as a false alarm raised by a drowning lawmaker,who has failed in his duty to deliver since elected.

According to the Forum, Kaduna youths have restrained from such violent attacks on people and communities since Senator Uba Sani became Governor of the State.

It was reported that Senator Lawal Adamu was attacked on Wednesday,New Year Day, while visiting his Senatorial District.

But in a reaction to the claim as reported, the Kaduna based political group,said the alleged assassination attempt on the lawmaker while visiting his constituency for the New Year celebration was nothing but false and should be disregarded.

The statement signed by the Coordinator,Comrade Musa Baba Aliyu further reads: “We can authoritatively say without mincing words that Kaduna citizens have become more refined and peaceful in recent times. And we strongly believe that he’s just raising false alarm to draw sympathy to himself after he couldn’t perform and even speak on matters affecting growth and development of the State.

“Why is it that no lawmaker or politician was attacked over past 19 months despite harsh economy caused by removal of fuel subsidy.

“Though the Senator,who is Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic and Secondary Education raised the alarm via his Facebook account,”I have just escaped an assassination attempt by some thugs in Kaduna North, “We demand pictorial or video evidence of when the assailants pelted the lawmaker’s vehicle with stones as claimed and reported.”

“We know that people criticised Senator Usman’s performance at the National Assembly for non-performance since his election. He said some of his constituents are not happy with the lawmaker.

“He also claimed that the action angered the residents and that many people in the senatorial district have vowed to oppose his re-election.

“He is viewed as the worst performing senator in history of lawmakers that have represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District since the return to democracy in 1999

“He has never stood up to speak on matters that affected the state since elected and sworn-in as Senator.”

Looted Funds: Kaduna Group Supports Arrest of Elrufai’s Fmr. Finance Commissioner

Looted Funds: Kaduna Group Supports Arrest of Elrufai’s Fmr. Finance Commissioner

… Insists recovery of looted funds very necessary

…Warns Against Elrufai’s interference

Kaduna Based development monitoring group under aegis of Forum for Good Governance (FFGG) has backed the arrest of former Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance and Local Government, Mohammed Bashir Sa’idu over allegations of money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and misappropriation of public funds.

The former Commissioner,who served under Governor Nasir Elrufai’s administration was arrested following a petition,where he was accused of laundering N3.96 billion and misappropriating N244 million between 2015 and 2023.

In a statement made available to journalists today, the Forum for Good Governance in Kaduna said there was nothing wrong with his arrest , especially when the issue revolves around looting of public funds.

The group in the Statement signed by Hon. Ahmadu Ibrahim Kauru warned against any attempt by Elrufai to interfere with the process must be resisted vehemently. Recalled that same Elrufai never had respect for rule of law when he was Governor.

We gathered that Elrufai in his days as Governor arrested and detained innocent journalists several and media practitioners such as; Luka Binniyat of Vanguard Newspapers ,Jacob Dickson of Authentic Newspaper , Stephen Kefas and Gabriel Idibia and nobody dated challenged him.

While noting that recovery of looted funds is very necessary now that Kaduna state is highly indebted,the Forum insisted that ,” His arrest must not be politicised because we all know that once an agency arrest an individual for looting of public funds or financial crime,it is in order.

The statement further reads: Allegations such as misappropriation of funds, sale of $45 million in state-owned foreign currency at an undervalued exchange rate of N410 per dollar, instead of the parallel market rate of N498 per dollar, causing a loss of over N3.96 billion to the government.

“Additionally, he is accused of failing to account for proceeds from the sale of government houses in Marafa Estate, Kaduna, amounting to approximately N244 million.

“We gathered from reports that the Kaduna State House of Assembly previously investigated Sa’idu’s financial dealings and forwarded its findings to anti-corruption agencies, including the EFCC and ICPC.

“We are happy that the police confirmed his arrest was not politically motivated but, followed by credible allegations of financial crimes and will remain in detention as investigations continue.”

New Year Message: A New Nigeria is possible, if we wake up to get the right people to power-Fadojoe

New Year Message: A New Nigeria is possible, if we wake up to get the right people to power
-Fadojoe

Former Labour Party presidential aspirant, and leader of Rescue Movement for New Nigeria aka Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative, Comrade Faduri Oluwadare Joseph popularly called Fadojoe, in his new year message expressed hope for a New Nigeria despite the failure by the government, if only the masses will wake up to use their franchise right to get the right people to power.

This he said during his new year message, wishing Nigerians a happy new year, praying that this year comes with hope of brighter future for Nigerians and another opportunity to prepare for a new nation.

Highlighting the situation of the country in 2024, he noted that Nigerians have really passed through hard times this 2024 than any year, despite that the present President Tinubu lead administration promised renewed hope, “but it has been renewed suffering for Nigerians that are not holding political offices, as “2024 happened to be one of the hardest year that Nigerians cannot forget in a hurry. But thank God that we survived and here we are in 2025. Last year, 2024, started just like this and president Tinubu made promises to Nigerians of renewed hope, promising policies that he said will bring positive impact and that before the end of the year life would have been better; but here we are, as the year ended with life been harder than any other year. And those policies none brought any positive impact as the administration failed woefully.

“For instance the fuel pump price that was N175 per liter when Tinubu took over had risen to over N700 as at January, 2024 and the year ended with fuel going for between N950 to over N1,000 per liter. While our naira had been on free fall, getting to over N1,700 per dollar and over N2,000 to a pound and prices of food stuff tremendously skyrocketing that even gari is no longer affordable by the common man”.

Having highlighted the various failure of the administration that has made “our country in worse condition than Ukraine that is ravaged by war, as Nigerians are passing through war of hunger; while politicians are living large, getting increments, huge budget and still padding the budget, buying private jet, yatch; yet telling Nigerians to sacrifice. And the politician have weaponized poverty taking advantage of it to throw baits at Nigerians during election to sell their votes and use the youths to manipulate electoral processes”.

He however commended the new policy on international passport, but added that it will only encourage brain drain the more. Then he added that despite all, a new Nigeria is still possible. “Nigerians are hungry and angry, but we will not take negative actions, rather, it will be directed towards building a new Nigeria by preparing to use our franchise power in the next election to bring to power the younger generation that are still vibrant have what to offer.

“Ending with this message or hope, I say happy new year once again to all Nigerians home and abroad”.

Together, We Shall Overcome Security Challenges” – Gov. Radda Assures Residents on New Year, Highlights Key Achievements

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA

PRESS RELEASE

“Together, We Shall Overcome Security Challenges” – Gov. Radda Assures Residents on New Year, Highlights Key Achievements

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has extended hearty congratulations to the people of Katsina State on the occasion of New Year, expressing confidence that the security challenges facing the state will soon become a thing of the past.

In his New Year message, Governor Radda acknowledged that while insecurity remains a national concern, the ‘Building Your Future’ administration has implemented robust measures since assuming office to combat this challenge.

The Governor recalled the launching of the second batch of Katsina State Community Watch Corps, provision of vehicles and other sophisticated gadgets to the security agencies, which indicates the state’s commitment to ending banditry attacks.

“Our administration has made significant strides across key sectors in 2024,” Governor Radda noted.

“We’ve transformed our educational sector through substantial investments in schools rehabilitation, teacher development, and equipment procurement.

Our commitment to technological advancement is evident in the scholarship awards to 68 students pursuing Artificial Intelligence and biotechnology studies in China.”

The Governor highlighted the administration’s agricultural revolution, noting that over 30,000 farmers received crucial farm inputs and assets, which also earned the state a recognition from the Federal Government for recording 99.75% success in dry season wheat cultivation.

“Our agricultural initiatives have not only boosted productivity but have also strengthened our food security position,” he stated.

In the health sector, Governor Radda emphasized Katsina’s achievement as the state with the highest number of functional health institutions in Nigeria, totaling 1,751 facilities, with over 85% operational. Notably, five of our primary healthcare centres have been upgraded to general hospitals while construction works are ongoing on others.

“Through strategic investments in healthcare personnel development, infrastructure, and equipment, we’ve significantly improved healthcare access for our citizens and make the state a destination for health tourists,” he added.

The Governor also detailed the administration’s urban renewal initiatives, including the completed dualization of Kofar Soro-Kofar Guga Road and the installation of solar street lights in the state capital. Flag off of the Funtua urban renewal project and the launching of Community Development Programme which empowered residents to participate in local project planning and supervision.

The governor pointed out that the state performed wonderfully with the 2024 budget as 69% implementation success was achieved.

He Further said , “in line with the government’s agenda to reduce cost of governance, the 2025 approved budget was tailored to reflect that agenda”.

Commendably, 77.81% is allocated for Capital Projects while unprecedentedly, only 22.82% is allocated for Recurrent Expenditure thereby allowing more attention for improving or where necessary providing critical infrastructure.

“As we step into 2025, we will commission several landmark infrastructure projects, which includes but not limited, Eastern Bypass Road, Dual Carriageway from Dutsinma Road to Yandaki Town, Shargalle-Dutsi-Ingawa Road, the Imaging Centre at General Amadi Rimi Orthopaedic Hospital among others,” the Governor highlighted.

Our focus remains on improved security, enhanced public services, and sustained development across all sectors,” Governor Radda pledged. “Success requires the sustained support and vigilance of every citizen.”

The Governor praised the resilience of Katsina residents and their cooperation with security agencies, particularly in intelligence sharing. “Together, we shall overcome security challenges and continue building a better future for Katsina State,” he concluded.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State

31st December, 2024

KTSG, AGILE Train 300 Teachers on Briquettes Production, Mud Stoves, Waste to Wealth Creation

GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA

PRESS RELEASE

KTSG, AGILE Train 300 Teachers on Briquettes Production, Mud Stoves, Waste to Wealth Creation

Katsina State Government, in collaboration with the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) and Katsina Youth Craft Village (KYCV) has organized a two-day training workshop focused on production of briquettes, fabricated modern mud stoves and waste-to-wealth creation, for 300 teachers across the state’s three senatorial zones.

The specialized training program which will end today, captured 100 teachers from each senatorial zones in Katsina with the aim to empower adolescent girls, promote sustainable practices and equipped educators with practical skills which align with global climate action and promote sustainable energy practices.

Speaking on the importance of the training, Engr. Kabir Abdullahi Kofar Soro, State Coordinator of Katsina Youth Craft Village who monitored the training sessions in Katsina, Daura and Malumfashi noted that the training initiative represents a significant step toward fulfilling Governor Radda’s Building Your Future agenda.

“The Governor’s vision of transforming KYCV into a premier skills acquisition hub for youth and women is becoming a reality,” Engr. Kofar Soro stated.

Engr. Kofar Soro further noted that the selected participants, all AGILE teachers from various schools, received hands-on training in sustainable energy practices that they can implement in their respective institutions.

“This knowledge transfer is expected to create a multiplier effect, extending the impact to youth to become creatively engaged while also reducing the spate of white collar jobs seekers,” Engr. Kofar Soro concluded.

It is important to note that this training program stems from AGILE’s learning visit to the Katsina Youth Craft Village, where they explored the use of briquettes and modern stoves. During the visit, AGILE also observed groundbreaking waste-to-wealth innovation introduced by Governor Radda, including Chinese-inspired methods of converting corn husks into eco-friendly products like bags and shoes.

MEDIA DIRECTORATE
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KATSINA

Alleged Tinubu’s NNPCL nepotism;Shehu Sani replies Elrufai

Alleged Tinubu’s NNPCL nepotism;Shehu Sani replies Elrufai

Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani has blasted the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Mal.Nasir Elrufai over recent comments made via his social media handle on alleged issues of Nepotism at NNPCL against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Farooq Kperogi, a US-based Nigerian professor of journalism had accused Tinubu of governing Nigeria with a Lagos mindset.

According to the scholar, Tinubu chose to dominate the economy with people from the South-West the way former President Muhammadu Buhari loaded the security sector with northerners during his administration

Elrufai later shared Kperogi’s post on his X handle and said, “Two wrongs don’t make a right”, adding that sensible inclusion trumps senseless exclusion.

However in a swift reaction to Elrufai ‘s shared post, Comrade Shehu Sani via his X handle replied, ” “There were people who were silent when Buhari was fielding political offices with his Kinsmen, and have now found their voice to speak out when the equation doesn’t favour them.

The former lawmaker, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District in 8th Senate overtly referred to Elrufai adding “Lets not make reference to the nepotism that marginalised Southern Kaduna for eight years.Kaduna was an apartheid state for eight years.”

According to Shehu Sani, anyone can talk or criticize President Tinubu on issues of alleged lopsided appointments or Nepotism, but certainly not Elrufai.

Former Osun Deputy Governor, Adesuyi Haastrup, Appointed Owa Obokun of Ijesaland as Well-Wishers Celebrate

Former Osun Deputy Governor, Adesuyi Haastrup, Appointed Owa Obokun of Ijesaland as Well-Wishers Celebrate

Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, a former Deputy Governor of Osun State from the Bilaro Oluodo ruling house, has been selected as the new Owa Obokun Ajimoko III, the Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland. His appointment has been met with celebrations from well-wishers across the country, who are sending their heartfelt congratulations and wishes for a long reign.

A statement issued by Folashade Aliu, the Executive Director of Corporate Affairs at ENL Consortium Ltd—an organization founded by His Royal Highness—expressed gratitude to the many people from all parts of the nation who have extended their congratulations to the new monarch.

The announcement of Haastrup’s ascension to the throne was made on Friday, December 27, 2024, following an election conducted by the kingmakers at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat in Ilesa.

The statement highlighted that Haastrup triumphed over nine other candidates in a transparent and impartial selection process. “We deeply appreciate the support from our admirers across the country,” the statement said. “We are pleased to inform everyone that Prince Haastrup emerged victorious in the election, defeating nine other contenders.”

The kingmakers who conducted the election included six Iwora mefa chiefs, High Chief Ibitoye, Oba Omokehinde Oyeleye, Ogboni of Ijebu-jesa, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye (Elegboro), Ogboni of Ibokun, Oba Festus Awogboro, Ogboni of Ilesa, High Chief Saka Fapohunda, and several Agba Ijesa chiefs from Ilesa.

The Head of Local Government Administration in Ilesa West Local Government, Mrs. Felicia Olabimtan, announced the result, confirming that Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup received the highest number of votes and was elected as the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.

It was noted that six of the kingmakers participated in the election, while High Chief Adefioye Adedeji was absent, and seven other members were ineligible to vote.

Following the announcement, both the Ogboni of Ibokun, Oba Festus Awogboro, and the Elegboro of Ijesaland, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye, praised the peaceful nature of the election. They also congratulated Haastrup and the people of Ijesaland for the smooth and promising start to a new era.

In a swift response, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has approved the appointment of Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as the new Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.

2024 Hajj: A Benchmark for Excellence

2024 Hajj: A Benchmark for Excellence

( By Ishaq Lanre Olaitan)

The 2024 Hajj operations, led by Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, have been unanimously celebrated as a watershed moment for Nigeria’s pilgrimage efforts. Through meticulous planning and flawless execution, NAHCON set new standards, earning praise from pilgrims and industry stakeholders alike.

Veteran Hajj professional, Ustaz Abubakar Siddeq Muhammad, in his analytical piece titled “Mal Jalal Ahmad Arabi And Hajj 2024 (2)” published in Leadership Newspapers, lauded the unprecedented readiness of Arafah. “For the first time in over 20 years, the Tents were fully prepared two weeks before D-Day—carpeted and air-conditioned,” he observed (see: https://leadership.ng/mal-jalal-ahmad-arabi-and-hajj-2024-2-2/).

Despite his tenure being prematurely cut short by political maneuvering, Jalal Arabi’s leadership as Chairman/CEO of NAHCON delivered transformative results, currently detailed in the Commission’s report, “2024: A Year of Achievements, Challenges, and Renewal”. For the sake of history and posterity, the key milestones that every mention of Arabi’s name would evoke included:

  1. Visa Issuance: Every pilgrim received their visa ahead of airlift operations, a first in Nigerian Hajj history.
  2. Airlift Operations: Over 52,000 pilgrims were transported by June 9, 2024, well before Saudi Arabia’s deadline. Return flights wrapped up five days early.
  3. Pilgrim Welfare in Mina: Essentials such as toiletries and handheld fans were distributed to enhance comfort.
  4. Health Support: Free medications for common ailments like malaria and hypertension were provided, ensuring timely care for pilgrims.

These achievements, accomplished despite economic challenges, underscore NAHCON’s resilience and dedication. Jalal Arabi’s efforts were further recognized internationally when he was granted rare access to the Holy Ka’aba in Saudi Arabia—a privilege reserved for distinguished global figures.

As NAHCON builds on the successes of 2024, the 2025 Hajj season is poised to succeed as well ensuring a seamless and spiritually enriching experience for Nigerian pilgrims. Such is the power of strong foundation.

Another brilliant piece has succinctly captured the rare record of Arabi as NAHCON’s steersman who came, saw and changed strategic planning and execution with supersonic speed, visit: https://www.hajjnews.com.ng/2024/12/nahcon-in-2024-year-of-achievements-challenges-and-renewal.html.

Olaitan wrote from Ilorin, Kwara State