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THE STATES

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14 years ago

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Adamawa

Sick persons in Mubi, Adamawa, now patronise private clinics as the strike embarked upon by medical and health workers has grounded services in public hospitals in the area.

Junior health workers had in June embarked on an indefinite strike following disagreement with the state government over wages and improved working conditions.

The situation was further compounded in the last five weeks when the NLC went on a similar strike over the implementation of the N18,000 minimum wage, forcing all health care facilities to close down.

Our  correspondent who went round some of the health centres in Mubi on Tuesday reports that they remained locked.

At the General Hospital, Mubi, only a handful of staff offered skeletal services at the Out-Patients Department, Emergency Unit and medical wards, while some of the patients on admission had left the wards.

Borno

The Caretaker Chairman of Kaga Local Government Area of Borno, Mr Kawu Ngamdu, has appealed to Muslims and Christians to pray and fast to end the frequent armed robberies along the Maiduguri-Kaga Road.

Ngamdu made the appeal in an interview with newsmen in Maiduguri, saying that armed robbers had intercepted and stolen the salaries of local government workers running to about N20 million at two different occasions on the road.

According to him, the people have to assist with their prayers and fasting so as to curb the situation.

He noted that if the trend was not brought under control it would affect some developmental programmes geared towards improving the living standard of people in the Local Government Area.

The chairman advised people to watch out for persons with questionable characters and report their activities to the security agencies.

“I will strive as much as possible to improve the living standard of the masses by providing them with good drinking water, boost agriculture and health delivery,” he said.

FCT

Brig-Gen. Okore-Affia, the Director-General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), says the commission is reconsidering the participation of youth corps members in future elections.

Speaking when the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Atahiru Jega, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja on Tuesday, Okore-Affia called for an urgent review of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between INEC and NYSC.

“ You will agree with me that there is an urgent need to review the MOU between INEC and NYSC, because as far as I am concerned, it is one-sided, because it did not cater for the interest and wellbeing of corps members deployed on electoral duties.

“The NYSC wants to ask for a verifiable proof of the preparedness of INEC to put in place measures that will ensure both the safety and wellbeing of corps members.”

Okore-Affia said that if verifiable proof of the safety of corps members was not given by INEC, the NYSC would scale down on the involvement of corps members in future elections.

Gombe

A Federal High Court in Gombe, presided over by Justice Babatunde Quadri on Tuesday granted bail to the former Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Danjuma Goje, and three others standing trial before it.

Goje and three others were arraigned before the court by the EFCC on an 18-count charge of laundering more than N25 billion public fund between May 2003 and May 2011.

Goje was arraigned along with Alhaji Aliyu El-Nafaty, former Executive Chairman of Gombe State Universal basic Education Board (SUBEB) and two contractors, S.M. Dokoro and Alhaji Sabo Tumu.

S. M. Dokoro Company Ltd, Gombe was also joined in the suit filed by the EFCC.

Quadri while granting the bail, following an earlier application file before it by Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), counsel to Goje, said that it was the constitutional right of the suspects to be granted bail.

Jigawa

Mr Ntufam Ogbu, the Secretary of the National Planning Commission (NPC), has called on state governments to compute their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in order to enhance investment.

Ogbu made the call at a meeting of the Joint Planning Board and the National Council on Development Planning in Dutse.

“We are saying that state governments should generate their GDP because we are operating a federal system of government.

“ We can not go from federal level to compute GDP for a state,’’ Ogbu said.

He said if state governments generated their GDP, it would help the Federal Government to put together the National Gross Domestic Product.

Ogbu also urged state governments to initiate and ensure the passage of a Project Continuity Bill to enhance continuity of government’s projects and programmes.

Kano

The police in Kano have arrested three persons for allegedly raping four minors aged between six years and eight years.

The Public Relations Officer of the state command, Malam Magaji Majiya, told newsmen in Kano recently that the suspects were arrested on October 15, in the metropolis.

According to Majiya, two of the accused persons lured three girls, children of their neighbours, into a room at about 8.15 a.m. and sexually assaulted them.

He said the other suspect was also apprehended for allegedly luring a seven-year-old girl into his room and had illegal canal knowledge of her.

Majiya said all the three suspects had made confessional statements that were further corroborated by the medical examination reports.

Lagos

The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) on Tuesday urged Lagos residents to monitor activities of Private Sector Partnership (PSP) operators engaged in waste collection in the state.

The Authority’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs Folashade Kadiri, said this in an interview with newsmen in Lagos.

Kadiri said that activities and operations of the operators should be “measured, criticised and appreciated” by the residents to know how effective such operators are in areas assigned to them by LAWMA.

According to her, the various levels of monitoring are the management and employees of LAWMA, Community Development Areas, and officials of the Ministry of Environment, and the residents.

Oyo

Sunday Oladeji, a professor of Economics at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has called on the Federal Government to make the National Manpower Board (NMB) more functional.

He told newsmen in Ibadan that the board had not been effective lately in the discharge of its mandate.

Oladeji, who is also the Provost of the institution’s Postgraduate School, recalled that the NMB became a body under the supervision of the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Ibadan.

The NMB, he said, was a product of the Ashby Commission which recommended its formation.

“The mandate of the board includes research and data collection on the manpower situation in the country as well as employment situation.

Plateau

Some residents of Plateau have voiced their opposition to the planned removal of petroleum subsidy by the Federal Government, saying the action will inflict more hardship on the average Nigerians.

In separate interviews that the spiral effects would result in hikes in prices of essential commodities and make life more difficult for Nigerians.

“Nigerians should be allowed to enjoy the subsidy on oil to be able to cope with the current hard times. There is no need to worsen the situation for the poor,” Miss Dorcas James, a student of the University of Jos, said.

She cautioned that the action would have debilitating effect

Taraba

Hundreds of primary school teachers and pupils in Jalingo took to the streets, protesting non-payment of the salaries of teachers and other welfare issues.

Addressing the gathering, the Taraba State Chairman of the NUT, Mr Aliyu Mafindi, said that the refusal of the State Government to pay teachers’ salaries was becoming a source of worry and unfortunate for a state that was already performing well in WAEC and NECO.

Mafindi said: “teachers will no longer fold their hands and watch bad governance continue to deny them their rights.

Zamfara

Farmers in Zamfara who benefitted from fertiliser/agriculture inputs loan are owing the government N5.5 billiion, says Sen. Saidu Dansadau, the Chairman, Debt Verification Committee.

The loan was disbursed by the Zamfara Comprehensive Agricultural Revolution Programme (ZACAREP).

Dansadau disclosed this in Gusau while presenting the committee’s report to Gov. Abdulaziz Yari.

He accused the beneficiaries of abusing the opportunity offered them by ZACAREP to buy fertilisers and other inputs at subsidised rates and pay back after harvest.

“It is unfortunate that while the government introduced the programme to encourage massive agricultural production in the state, both the subsidy and loans payable after harvest were abused.

“As at the moment, our findings revealed that the target farmers, through their emirate councils, who stood as guarantors for the loans, owe Zamfara State Government as much as N5.5 billion from unpaid fertiliser loans.“

According to him, said some privileged farmers had over the years, cornered subsidised fertilisers/loan for inputs at the expense of small and medium-scale farmers who produced the greater percentage of food crops consumed by the people.

He urged the government to review the activities of ZACAREP by taking into consideration the needs of peasant farmers.

The committee chairman noted that small and medium-scale farmers had prominent roles to play to realise the government’s food security and poverty eradication agenda.

Responding, Yari commended the committee for doing a thorough job and pledged to implement its recommendations.

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Group Advocates Indigenous Language Sustainability, Calls for Policy Action

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2 days ago

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January 23, 2026

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A pan-Nigeria organisation committed to the promotion and preservation of indigenous languages, Indigenous Language and Culture Promoters (ILCP), has called for the deliberate development and compulsory teaching of indigenous languages in both primary and secondary schools across the country.

The group made the call during its maiden Congress held in Bori, Rivers State, which was convened to examine challenges hindering the official adoption and effective teaching of Ogoni languages in schools.

Speaking at the Congress, the Executive Director of the organisation, HRC Mene Magnus Edooh, Amb.P, emphasised the critical role of indigenous languages in preserving a people’s culture, values and history. He warned against the gradual extinction of native languages, noting that language loss equates to identity loss.

“Years ago, Latin was a language of global relevance, but today it is largely extinct. We do not want Ogoni languages to suffer a similar fate. As a people, we cannot afford to lose our identity through the death of our languages,” Edooh said.

He explained that the Indigenous Language and Culture Promoters was established to collaborate with language stakeholders to ensure that children and younger generations remain connected to their mother tongues. The organisation also appealed to governments at all levels, as well as relevant institutions and individuals, to take strategic actions aimed at promoting and sustaining Nigeria’s indigenous languages.

Also speaking, the newly appointed Director of Media and Information, Prince David N. Gbarato, questioned the rationale behind government reluctance to accord indigenous languages their rightful place in national development policies.

According to him, “People with well-developed languages are people with well-developed indigenous systems and affairs,” stressing that language development is fundamental to cultural and societal advancement.

The Congress further served as a platform for the ratification of key officers of the organisation and featured the participation of representatives from various indigenous language groups and other language stakeholders, all of whom echoed the call for renewed commitment towards safeguarding Nigeria’s linguistic heritage.

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Diri Approves N200m Monthly Grant for Bayelsa Farmers, Targets Increased Local Rice Production

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6 days ago

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January 19, 2026

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Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has approved a monthly support scheme of ?200 million for farmers in the state as part of efforts to boost food security and expand agricultural production.

The governor announced the approval on Tuesday at the flag-off ceremony of the 2026 dry season farming programme held at the state-owned rice farm in Otuasega community, Ogbia Local Government Area.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the volume of rice harvested during the last farming season, Governor Diri directed the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources to ensure a significant increase in the production of homegrown rice in Bayelsa State by the end of 2026.

He stressed that despite the government’s provision of necessary support to the ministry and farmers, it was unacceptable that the state still had to procure rice from outside during the last Yuletide period.

The governor charged the Ministry of Agriculture to take food security seriously, noting that Bayelsa has a comparative advantage in several crop areas, with fertile soil that does not require fertiliser to produce organic crops.

While commending the Commissioner for Agriculture and other stakeholders for organising the event, Governor Diri urged the ministry to ensure that such initiatives go beyond yearly ceremonies and translate into tangible benefits for the people.

According to him, agriculture remains a key pillar of the state’s economic diversification drive, which his administration has prioritised through heavy investments. He also called on civil servants and residents to embrace agriculture as a way of life.

“Let it not be that we come here for a yearly ritual. This is something that affects us as a people and so we must all take it seriously. Food security will continue to be a top priority of my administration,” he said.

He added that agriculture strengthens the economy and highlighted the importance of transportation infrastructure in moving farm produce from rural communities to the state capital.

“We are investing in agriculture and connecting communities. The roads and bridges support agriculture. We have developed partnerships and collaborations and will continue to partner with other agencies to ensure Bayelsa attains the expected food security,” the governor stated.

Governor Diri further directed that by the end of 2026, the state should record a minimum production of 300,000 kilogrammes of rice, stressing that government would patronise local farmers rather than sourcing rice from outside the state.

On security concerns, he reiterated that the state’s anti-grazing law remains in force, warning herdsmen against destroying farmlands and urging farmers to report such incidents to security agencies instead of resorting to social media.

He also cautioned traditional rulers against allocating land in forest areas to herdsmen, warning that anyone found culpable would be sanctioned.

“For our farmers, we will always support you. Honourable Commissioner, identify the genuine farmers in the state. What we did for MSMEs will also be done for farmers. Henceforth, ?200 million will be set aside monthly to support farmers in Bayelsa State,” he added.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Beke Sese, described the event as a reaffirmation of the state government’s unwavering commitment to food security.

He commended Governor Diri for his substantial investment in the agricultural sector, noting that it has been the driving force behind the progress recorded so far.

Representatives of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Bayelsa State chapter, Nigerian Women in Agriculture Business, the Nigeria Agricultural Insurance Corporation and the Central Bank of Nigeria, among others, also lauded the governor’s sustained support for farmers, which they said has significantly improved the agricultural sector in the state.

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Fanfare, Pageantry As Ohiauga Community Honours 31 Eminent Personalities with Maiden Leadership Awards

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6 days ago

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January 19, 2026

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Ohiauga Community in Igburu Clan, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, on Saturday, December 27, 2025, witnessed an unprecedented spectacle of celebrations, fanfare and cultural splendour as it honoured 31 distinguished personalities for their outstanding leadership qualities, selfless service and immense contributions to the growth and development of the community.

The historic event, which took place at the Ohiauga Community Town Hall, marked the maiden edition of the Ohiauga Leadership Awards and saw 27 illustrious sons and daughters of the community, alongside four non-indigenes, decorated with various honours in recognition of their unwavering commitment to the socio-economic, political and infrastructural advancement of the area.

From the early hours of the day, the once serene and seemingly sleepy community was transformed into a beehive of activities. The atmosphere was electrified with excitement as the sound of music echoed from different corners of the community. Everywhere was colourful, lively and festive, as men, women, youths and children, young and old, trooped out in large numbers, beautifully adorned in elegant traditional and modern attires.

The favourable weather further added glamour and grace to the occasion, enhancing the beauty and splendour of the event, as the people, stakeholders and visitors savoured every moment of the celebration.

Adding royal splendour to the colourful ceremony was the presence of the Eze of Igburu Clan, Eze Igburu IV of Igburu Land, His Majesty Eze Kenneth Nwabochi, who arrived at the venue in full royal regalia, accompanied by his retinue of chiefs, elders and other palace officials. His presence was a clear testament to the significance of the occasion and underscored the unity and collective resolve of the people to celebrate excellence and service.

One after the other, the award recipients stepped forward amid thunderous applause, cheers and admiration from the audience. These were men and women whose years of dedication, sacrifice and contributions have helped place Ohiauga Community on the map in terms of political relevance, socio-economic growth and self-help-driven development.

Indeed, Ohiauga Community today boasts of notable achievements credited largely to community-based initiatives, including a relatively good road network, stable and uninterrupted electricity supply powered through solar infrastructure, and other basic amenities that have improved the quality of life of its people. The honoured individuals, it was observed, have played significant roles in achieving these milestones, leaving their unmistakable footprints on the community’s development journey.

By honouring them, the community made it clear that the awards were not meant to signal retirement from service, but rather to encourage the recipients to intensify their efforts and continue to give back to their fatherland. Community leaders noted that although progress has been recorded, Ohiauga still faces serious developmental challenges that require sustained commitment and collective action.

Prominent among these challenges is the absence of a functional healthcare facility. The only cottage hospital project in the community, allegedly initiated by Total Energies Limited several years ago, was said to have been abandoned, leaving residents without adequate medical care. The community strongly appealed to the Rivers State Government to intervene and revive the project in the interest of the people.

The education sector was also not spared. The Ohiauga Community Primary School, according to the community, is allegedly in good shape, with a conducive learning environment, but lacks enough classroom teachers, as there is only one government-employed classroom teacher. To fill the void, the community reportedly employed five additional teachers from its meagre resources and currently bears the responsibility of paying their salaries.

These realities, stakeholders explained, provided further justification for the decision to celebrate and honour individuals who have consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and development of the community.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the Ohiauga Maiden Leadership Awards, Pastor (Dr) David Chizor Nwaoburu, described the event as a strategic initiative aimed at fostering peace, unity and development, while recognising and rewarding excellence and service.

According to him, the award ceremony was designed to honour eminent personalities who have distinguished themselves in public and private life, and who have continued to make meaningful contributions to the growth of Ohiauga Community.

Dr Nwaoburu, who was himself among the award recipients, said the recognition was intended to motivate the honourees to do more for the community and not to rest on their achievements. He urged them to continue to serve the interests of the people wherever they find themselves and to remain ambassadors of peace and development.

He further reiterated the need for government intervention in the abandoned cottage hospital project and the posting of teachers to the primary school by the state government, stressing that community development in Ohiauga has largely been driven by self-help efforts.

Among those honoured at the event were Pastor (Dr) David Chizor Nwaoburu; former Bursar of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr Davis Ojima; the Registrar of the institution, Dr Chinonye A. Ajie; Dr Obi Chukwuma Ebenezer Jular; Elder Kemmer Mark Godwin; Dr Nwokoji Chukwuemeka; Mr Nduka Louis Odiegba; Dr (Chief) (Mrs) Ojima; Comrade Chimezie Igwela; Engr Gideon Eke; Chief (Prof) H. A. Ajie; Hon. Sule Igwela; and Dr Obi Nwaoburu.

Others included Prof. (Mrs) Jennifer Igwela; Dr Charity Ajie; Eric David Orukwo; the Paramount Ruler of Ohiauga Community, HRH Dr Amb. Bright Abali; Mr Chukwudi Lloyd Reuben; Comrade Wisdom Adieme; and the member representing ONELGA Constituency I in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Nwabochi.

Also recognised were Comrade Kelvin London Oji; Pastor Smart Brass Maduagu; Chief (Hon.) K. O. Igwela; Harmony Igwela; Comrade Onyemaobi Igwela; and Late Elder Nwaba Maduagu, who received a posthumous award in recognition of his lifetime contributions to the community.

The four non-indigenes honoured for their dedicated services and goodwill towards the community were Hon. Marculey Ogolo; Hon. ThankGod Chibor; Comrade Kingsley Ogu; and Pastor G. Oreke, who was specially recognised as the only dedicated government classroom teacher at Ohiauga Community Primary School.

Reacting to the honour, the Registrar of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Dr Chinonye A. Ajie, described the award as a step in the right direction and a thoughtful gesture that encourages service and excellence. He called for harmonious relationships among all segments of the community and pledged his continued support towards education, job creation and collective development.

Former Bursar of the university, Dr Davis Ojima, also expressed gratitude to the community for recognising his contributions, assuring that he would remain committed to promoting peace, unity and sustainable development initiatives in Ohiauga.

Business mogul, Mr Nduka Louis Odiegba, said being honoured by one’s own community carries special significance, describing the recognition as the most cherished among the many awards he has received. He pledged to intensify his contributions to the welfare and development of the people, noting that “charity must begin at home.”

In his royal remarks, the Eze of Igburu Clan, His Majesty Eze Kenneth Nwabochi, emphasised the importance of peace, unity and the preservation of cultural values, describing the maiden Ohiauga Leadership Awards as a timely initiative aimed at strengthening communal bonds and fostering collective progress.

Giving the vote of thanks on behalf of the awardees, Mr Chukwudi Lloyd Reuben, thanked the community for finding them worthy of recognition, and commended the leadership and merit award committee for the excellent packaging of the programme. He urged the awardees to continue with their good work to the community, as the merit awards were a clarion call for more community development involvement and a wake up call for others to emulate the leadership qualities exhibited by the awardees.

Overall, the maiden Ohiauga Leadership Awards ceremony lived up to its billing, serving not only as a platform to celebrate excellence and service but also as a rallying point for renewed commitment to the development of the community, amid resounding jubilation, merriment and cultural pride.

 

By: Donatus Ebi

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