Author Archives: News All Around

A caution has been issued to Muslim leaders and clerics across the country against undue interference in ongoing tax reform discussions, with a warning that such matters are technical, constitutional and should be handled by relevant government institutions.

The position was taken by a coalition of Islamic groups under the umbrella of the Coalition of Islamic Organisations for National Development (CIOND), which made its views known in a statement issued on Wednesday, stressing that tax reform policies are economic and administrative issues that should not be politicised or religiously coloured.

According to the statement, signed by the coalition’s National Coordinator, Sheikh Abdulrahman Musa, while Islam encourages justice, accountability and fairness in governance, it does not support the distortion of public policy debates through sentiments that could inflame religious tensions.

“The issue of tax reform is a national economic matter that affects all Nigerians, irrespective of faith or ethnicity. It requires expert analysis, stakeholder engagement and constitutional processes, not emotional or sectarian interventions,” the statement read.

The coalition noted that recent comments by some religious figures risk misleading the public and creating unnecessary suspicion about government policies aimed at strengthening revenue generation and economic stability.

CIOND urged Muslim leaders to focus on their primary responsibilities of moral guidance, peacebuilding and social harmony, rather than making pronouncements on technical fiscal policies beyond their competence.

“Islam upholds knowledge and professionalism. Where policies are being debated, those with the requisite expertise should be allowed to lead the conversation, while religious leaders can contribute by advocating fairness, transparency and protection of the poor,” the group added.

The Islamic groups further called on the Federal Government to intensify public enlightenment on the objectives and safeguards of the proposed tax reforms, to address misinformation and build public trust.

They also appealed to Nigerians to resist attempts to frame economic reforms along religious lines, warning that such narratives could undermine national unity and derail well-intentioned policies.

The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement with government on policies that promote economic growth, social justice and national development.

The Forum for Good Governance and Economic Development (FGGED) has dismissed recent claims allegedly made by the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, against the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, describing the allegations as unfounded, misleading and capable of undermining regulatory stability in the petroleum sector.

In a statement issued today and made available to Journalists, the forum said it had carefully reviewed the claims attributed to Dangote and found them to be “lacking in factual basis and unsupported by regulatory or operational realities within the downstream petroleum industry.”

The Forum in the Statement signed by its Secretary,Dr. Abraham Japhet further passed a vote of confidence on Engr. Ahmed, commending his leadership of the NMDPRA and his commitment to transparency, due process and strict adherence to the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

According to the forum, since assuming office, the NMDPRA under Ahmed has implemented key reforms aimed at sanitising the downstream sector, improving regulatory oversight, ensuring fair competition and protecting the interests of consumers and investors alike.

“The NMDPRA boss has demonstrated professionalism and independence in the discharge of his duties, resisting undue pressure from vested interests while prioritising national interest,” the statement said.

FGGED warned against what it described as attempts by powerful corporate actors to intimidate or discredit regulators in order to secure favourable outcomes, stressing that no individual or company should be allowed to undermine institutions established by law.

The forum urged stakeholders in the oil and gas industry to engage constructively with regulators and utilise established dispute-resolution mechanisms rather than resorting to public statements that could erode investor confidence and destabilise the sector.

It also called on the Federal Government to continue to support the NMDPRA in the effective implementation of the PIA, noting that a strong and independent regulator is critical to the sustainability and growth of Nigeria’s petroleum industry.

The group reaffirmed its support for reforms in the oil and gas sector and pledged to continue to defend public institutions and officials who act in accordance with the law and in the best interest of the country.

The Northern Elders Support Group has criticised Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, accusing him of concentrating on political disputes while insecurity continues to worsen across the state.

The group said dissatisfaction is increasing among residents, noting that instead of prioritising lasting solutions to banditry and violent crimes affecting Zamfara communities, the governor appears more engaged in political confrontations with the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government and some key ministers.

According to the group, these confrontations are often directed at individuals perceived to be outperforming the governor in governance.

The group stated that concerned voices across the state indicate that a majority of Zamfara residents are unhappy and deeply frustrated by the persistent security challenges affecting their daily lives.

It added that residents urgently want peace, safety and a decisive response to insecurity, stressing that continued violence has displaced families and disrupted economic activities.

“There is a clear expectation that the governor should remain focused on securing Zamfara and restoring confidence among the people,” the group said.

“Unfortunately, what we see instead is a preoccupation with political mischief and policy disputes with the federal government,” it added.

The group likened the situation to a leader who sends away his own child and then claims to be acting in the family’s interest, saying the analogy reflects misplaced priorities and a failure of responsibility.

According to the group, such a leader cannot genuinely claim to be working in the interest of the people.

The Northern Elders Support Group further accused Governor Lawal of contributing to political tension in the North by engaging in confrontations that undermine unity and cooperation, especially at a time when collaboration between state and federal authorities is critical to addressing insecurity.

It said the governor should focus on delivering tangible results in security, governance and development rather than attacking federal ministers and political opponents, including former governor Bello Matawalle.

The statement was e-signed by Hon. Yusuf Abubakar, Ag. Chairman of the Northern Elders Support Group.

Christian groups from Benue and Plateau states have commended former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, for what they described as his landmark efforts toward ensuring sustainable peace and unity in Northern Nigeria.

The groups, drawn from various Christian associations and community leaders across the two states, expressed their appreciation in a joint statement issued on Sunday, noting that Senator Yari’s intervention came at a critical time when the region has continued to grapple with recurring communal tensions and security challenges.

According to the statement sign by Reverend Innocent Ogbanje and Pastor Peter Lange , Senator Yari has demonstrated uncommon statesmanship by rising above political, ethnic and religious divides to engage stakeholders in genuine dialogue aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence.

The groups said his approach, which emphasizes inclusiveness, mutual respect and justice, has helped to douse tension and restore confidence among communities affected by protracted conflicts.

They noted that his recent consultations with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and security agencies in parts of the North, particularly in Benue and Plateau states, sent a strong message that peacebuilding requires collective responsibility and sincere leadership.

“Senator Abdulaziz Yari has shown that peace is achievable when leaders are willing to listen, engage and act in the interest of all, irrespective of faith or background,” the statement read.

“His intervention has rekindled hope among our people and reinforced the need for unity as the only pathway to sustainable development in the region.”

The Christian groups further applauded the senator for promoting interfaith understanding, describing his outreach to Christian leaders as a significant step toward bridging trust gaps and addressing long-standing grievances. They said such efforts are crucial in countering narratives of division and in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood among diverse communities in the North.

While calling on other political leaders to emulate Senator Yari’s example, the groups urged the federal and state governments to complement such initiatives with concrete policies that address the root causes of conflict, including poverty, unemployment and weak justice mechanisms.

They reaffirmed their commitment to peace and pledged to continue working with Muslim groups, traditional institutions and government authorities to sustain dialogue and prevent future crises.

The groups concluded by praying for wisdom and strength for leaders championing peace across the region, stressing that the stability of Northern Nigeria remains vital to the unity and progress of the country as a whole.

By Sandra Ada Ukka

The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace (AJIP) has declared its firm and unwavering support for the Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle, rejecting what it described as baseless and politically motivated calls for his removal from office.

The group said the moves, allegedly sponsored by Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, are misguided and aimed at undermining the progress recorded in the fight against insecurity, as well as eroding the integrity of national leadership and unity in the North.

In a statement signed by its Director-General, Musa Danbaki, AJIP said the recent political manoeuvres against Matawalle are rooted in desperation.

According to the group, “As a leader who has consistently aligned himself with bandit leaders, Lawal’s efforts to discredit Minister Matawalle stem from a fear of exposure. Matawalle has been a stalwart advocate for peace and security in our region, tirelessly working to dismantle the networks of violence that have plagued our communities.

“His commitment to transparency and accountability threatens the very foundations of Lawal’s alliances, compelling the governor to seek distractions through baseless allegations against a man who has dedicated his life to the service of our nation.”

AJIP said it firmly believes that the calls for Matawalle’s removal go beyond personal attacks, describing them as part of a wider political strategy to destabilise the support base for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.

The group noted that by targeting Matawalle, who it described as a key pillar of support for the President in the North, detractors are seeking to weaken the administration’s efforts to entrench stability and growth in the region.

“Minister Matawalle has demonstrated unwavering dedication to his responsibilities, implementing policies that have significantly improved the security landscape in Nigeria. Under his stewardship, there has been a concerted effort to engage communities, empower local leaders, and create sustainable pathways to peace,” the statement said.

AJIP added that Matawalle’s approach goes beyond combating banditry, as it also addresses the socio-economic factors driving unrest, an effort it said has earned him respect within and outside the region.

Reflecting on the current political climate, the group reaffirmed its solidarity with President Tinubu and the administration’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria, stressing that unity and collaboration remain essential to overcoming security challenges.

“In light of these circumstances, we call on all stakeholders to reject the divisive rhetoric being propagated by those who seek to undermine our collective progress. The strength of our region lies in our ability to unite against common threats, not personal vendettas,” AJIP stated.

The group urged Nigerians, particularly residents of Zamfara State and the wider North, to remain vigilant against misinformation and to continue supporting leaders committed to peace, security and national unity.

“The Arewa Joint Initiative for Peace extends its unwavering support to Minister Bello Matawalle and commends his tireless efforts to bring about lasting change. Together, we can forge a path toward a more secure and prosperous future for all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.

ENDS

Young political actors and civil society representatives have called for urgent reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process and expand youth participation.

The call was made during a youth Youth Constituency Townhall Meeting on Electoral Reform Priority Recommendations held in Kaduna on Thursday , December 9, 2025, where speakers highlighted gaps in voter registration, result transmission, and political inclusion.

The event was organised by JESZ Development Foundation (JDEV), support by Canadian Funds for local initiative in partnership with Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI).

Speaking at the event, Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Kaduna State Chapter, Abubakar Umar, emphasised that Nigeria’s electoral success depends heavily on young people, who make up more than 70 per cent of the population.

Abubakar said the youth must not only participate in voting but also play central roles in the management of the electoral and electioneering processes.

“The electoral process should be managed by the youth.

“The voting population is largely youth, and when elections succeed, the benefit goes to the youth, and when it fails, the consequences also fall on them,” he said.

He added that the Not-Too-Young-To-Run Act continues to shape Nigeria’s political landscape, noting that more young people between ages 18 and 29 are contesting and winning elections.

“It is still making a strong impact. Young people are entering leadership positions, and this is healthy for our democracy,” he said.

Abubakar explained that while youth inclusion is critical, some aspects of electoral management remain constitutionally within the powers of the executive, including the appointment of the INEC Chairman.

“Certain powers are vested in the executive and may remain so until our democracy evolves further,” he said.

Executive Director, JDEV Ms Zigwai Ayuba, stressed that ongoing electoral reforms must reflect the voices and priorities of young Nigerians.

She said youth organisations had developed five key recommendations for lawmakers, including the need to properly define and implement continuous voter registration (CVR).

“Every day a young Nigerian turns 18. They should be able to register immediately. If voter registration is not continuous, we need a clear interpretation that makes it truly continuous,” she said.

Ayuba also called for immediate implementation of electronic transmission of results, and insisted that all electoral litigations must be concluded before the swearing-in of elected officials to prevent prolonged political crises.

She stated that the coalition hoped the National Assembly and State Assemblies would adopt youth-driven priorities that show young Nigerians’ commitment to improving the country’s democracy.

On his part, Development Consultant, Auwal Muhktar Suraj Esq, argued that electoral reform is essential because each election cycle exposes technical and operational weaknesses.

“Our elections have suffered from inconsistencies like technical, technological, and operational.

“Reforms are a necessary tool to correct these lapses,” he said.

He urged the government to address major issues such as vote buying, insecurity at polling units, and technological failures, especially the controversies surrounding the electronic transmission of results during the 2023 elections.

Auwal added that youth inclusion is non-negotiable.

“Youths are the backbone of society. They vote, they campaign, and they make up the majority.

“So, if we want real progress, young people must be brought into governance,” he added.

By Salisu Ibrahim

A walk into the premises of Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) office, would attest to the impact of Good Leadership. Work atmosphere at the Commission is very positive and employee relations is highly cordial, a development that is clearly demonstrating effective leadership.

The Commission was Established by Decree No. 49 of 1989, amended by Decree 98 of 1993 and presently RMAFC Act CAP R7 LFN 2004.

By constitutional provisions, Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission is constitutionally is mandated to monitor accruals to all tiers of government as well as disbursement of revenues from the Federation Account, a mandate that has placed in the Commission a very critical role of safeguarding public resources.

As an agency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that oversees the revenues accruing to and disbursement of such funds from the Federal Account to relevant tiers, the Body is also expected to ensure that there is conformity and equity in the nation’s revenue allocation formulae.

With this unique responsibility, RMAFC, occupies an important and strategic position in the Nigeria’s fiscal architecture, requiring it to uphold the core values of integrity, transparency, accountability, professionalism, and patriotism.

This explains why a leader of such an important government body must be a man of impeccable character, a very honest and sincere person, who will lead the body with integrity honesty, trustworthiness, and reliability.

When Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu was appointed as Chairman of the Commission after his stewardship as Secretary of the Commission, staff of the commission were so elated, expressing their happiness for having the right person to lead them.

So far, the Commission is enjoying a positive turn around and the remarkable progress achieved so far, are largely attributed to the exemplary leadership of the Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, whose leadership style has transformed the work atmosphere, fostering a positive, productive, and supportive environment that inspires employees to excel.

Under Dr. Shehu’s guidance, employees feel valued, respected, and empowered, with their contributions recognized and their voices heard. The Chairman’s commitment to treating staff with dignity and respect has created a sense of trust and confidence, driving them to work collaboratively towards achieving the Commission’s goals.

In his style of leadership, Dr. Shehu has encouraged open communication, innovation, and high productivity, thereby relating with relevant stakeholders to achieve the goals of the commission while also unlocking the staff’s full potential and propelling them to work towards Commission’s success and growth.

No one is in doubt as to the fact that the Commission’s workforce is highly motivated, well engaged, and equipped with ethical training to uphold truth and honesty. They are equally receiving professional development, ethical training to keep away from untoward practices, and receiving necessary skills and knowledge to handle challenges to manage the dynamics of changes.

The Chairman’s integrity and his leadership style have set a positive example, building trust and respect among employees. This has boosted workplace performance, enhanced the organization’s reputation, and inspired accountability, collaboration, and fairness.

As a result, individual workers are driven to work as a team, striving for excellence and achieving the Commission’s objectives, while relevant stakeholders are joining hands together with the Commission towards wiping out corrupt and bad practices in governance.

At one of such capacity building organized in collaboration with the ICPC, for the Commission’s staff last Tuesday, the Chairman admonished all the relevant stakeholders to join hands together in the nation’s fight against corrupt practices.

So far, the impact of Dr. Shehu’s leadership is clearly evident in the faces of the Commission’s employees, who always exude a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction with their work. His leadership has created a sense of community, driving job satisfaction, productivity, and success, and cementing the Commission’s position as a premier primary organization mandated to ensure equity and fairness in the distribution of nation’s resources.

This particular circumstance was possible because of the quality of leadership being demonstrated by the Chairman, Dr. Muhammad Bello Shehu. Under his watch, the atmosphere at the Commission has been very positive, productive, and supportive and the work environment continue to inspire employees to thrive and achieve success.

Workers of the Commission are adequately motivated and engaged in various types of capacity building, a development that is making them to work collaboratively towards achieving the common goal and in turn, they all believe, they are now in safe hands while feeling secure in their roles and workplace.

Ibrahim contributes this piece from Kano. Could be reached on faccageltd10@gmail.com

By Barr. Aminu Hussaini

As Kano State continues to affirm its position as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic economic and population hub, a major opportunity lies ahead: transforming its growing urban landscape through smarter planning, stronger regulation and deeper collaboration with the private sector.In recent years, the state has witnessed a rapid rise in demand for residential land, driven by population growth, urban migration and economic expansion.

While this heightened demand has encouraged private developers to supply residential plots at unprecedented scale, an increasing number of these private layouts emerged without adequate planning, infrastructure or regulatory approval, placing both residents and government agencies at risk.

Government Achievements: A Foundation Worth CelebratingDespite these challenges, the Kano State Government under the leadership of AKY has made remarkable strides in improving land administration, urban planning and infrastructure delivery.

From digitizing key aspects of land records to strengthening the operations of land management agencies, the government has taken bold steps to enhance transparency, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and promote orderly development.Key achievements include the introduction of more structured land allocation processes that prioritize fairness and efficiency; revitalization of planning agencies, improving their capacity to assess and approve layouts according to modern standards and improved monitoring and enforcement against unauthorized developments, expansion of government-serviced layouts as well as provision of safer and more affordable residential options.

Why Stronger Regulation Still Matters Even with these gains, the increasing proliferation of substandard private layouts means regulation and oversight must remain a priority. Many of these unapproved layouts lack essential infrastructure and pose long-term risks.Public–Private Partnership: The Key to Sustainability One of the most important lessons from modern urban development worldwide is that government effort alone is not enough — sustainability is best achieved when public institutions and private developers work hand-in-hand.

With proper PPP frameworks, developers can co-invest in roads, drainage, energy and water systems while government ensures clear standards, oversight and incentives. Together, both sides can build high-quality and well-planned residential communities.A Shared Responsibility for a Shared FutureKano’s transformation can neither be left solely to government agencies nor entirely to private developers.

Sustainability depends on mutual responsibility, where government maintains strong oversight, private investors build responsibly and communities embrace regulated housing options.ConclusionKano stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey. The state government’s outstanding achievements in strengthening land administration and urban planning have laid a strong foundation for progress.

The next phase requires complementary partnership with private developers to sustain this momentum and ensure every resident has access to safe – modern housing.With continued government leadership and responsible private-sector participation, Kano under the AKY is set to become a national model for sustainable urban growth.

This opinion piece was written by Barrister Aminu Hussaini – Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State – AKY on Justice/Constitutional Matters – +234 8033742424 – aminuhussaini173@gmail.com

In moments when nations confront the limits of their endurance, history often turns to leaders whose lives have been shaped on the frontlines of discipline, strategy and sacrifice. General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), Nigeria’s former Chief of Defence Staff and now Minister of Defence, stands among such figures—calm in crisis, firm under pressure and unwaveringly committed to the ideal of a secure and united Nigeria.

A Soldier Forged by Training and ExperienceGeneral Musa’s pathway into the upper echelons of Nigeria’s security architecture is the result of decades of methodical preparation. A graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy, among the country’s toughest institutions, he also received specialized training in strategic warfare, counterterrorism and operational command both in Nigeria and abroad. His academic credentials, including coursework in defence management and national security strategy, complement a career of hands-on military experience.

It is this blend of intellectual grounding and practical command that enabled him to helm Operation Hadin Kai, the major counterinsurgency mission in the northeast, with a reputation for coordination, discipline and respect for humanitarian considerations.Bravery without SpectacleThose who served under him often describe his bravery not as the loud, chest-beating kind but as something quieter and more resolute. Musa was known for visiting forward operating bases that many senior officers only observed from afar. His presence—unannounced, unarmed beyond standard protocol and fully exposed to the same dangers as his troops—communicated a simple truth: leadership is accountability lived, not preached.

Even as he rose in the ranks, he maintained this ethos, showing the country that courage is measured not only on the battlefield but also in the willingness to take responsibility when decisions carry real-world consequences.Principles That Anchor LeadershipThree values have consistently defined his service: Professionalism – General Musa’s insistence on discipline, due process and respect for the chain of command helped restore confidence in joint operations during a period of fragmented security efforts; Integrity – known for his straightforward communication style, he routinely provided briefings grounded in facts rather than theatrics—an essential quality in an era of misinformation and national uncertainty and Humanity – Musa emphasized protecting civilians, collaborating with humanitarian agencies and ensuring that military operations aligned with Nigeria’s legal and ethical obligations.A Legacy Rooted in Service, Not PowerAcross his career, Musa has worked to professionalize the military, strengthen inter-agency intelligence sharing and promote welfare reforms for troops deployed in high-risk zones.

His tenure as Chief of Defence Staff demonstrated the potential of a security leadership that is steady even when the national mood is anxious. If his legacy has a central theme, it is this: service above self.Suitability at a Critical HourNigeria today confronts a complex security landscape—terrorism, banditry, oil theft, cyber threats and communal tensions converging into one of the nation’s most challenging periods. At such a time, the role of the Minister of Defence demands not only policy knowledge but also a deeply practical understanding of the terrain, the troops and the tactics that work.

General Musa brings decades of field command experience, proven record of coordinating multi-theatre operations, strong credibility within the armed forces as well as disciplined and principle-driven approach to national defence. These qualities do not promise miracles—but they offer something more realistic and arguably more important: competence, steadiness and an understanding of what it truly takes to safeguard a nation’s sovereignty.An Image of Hope in Difficult TimesNigeria’s insecurity challenges are steep, undeniably so.

But history shows that nations have overcome worse when guided by leaders capable of clear thinking and grounded action. General Christopher Musa (Rtd.) represents a generation of officers who understand the price of peace because they have fought through the cost of its absence. His career is a reminder that leadership, at its best, is not about promises—it is about presence, principle, and persistence.In a moment when the country seeks reassurance, his story rekindles a belief that Nigeria has within its own ranks the capacity, courage and competence to overcome the storms it faces.

No doubt, his appointment reflects political wisdom and thoughtful leadership decision from the Commander in Chief – it has reinforced public confidence and strengthened the nation’s resolve.

This opinion piece was written by Barrister Aminu Hussaini – Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State – AKY on Justice/Constitutional Matters – +234 8033742424 – aminuhussaini173@gmail.com