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BREAKING: Another New Nigerian Newspaper beneficiary waiting payment dies, death toll now 107

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Another New Nigerian Newspaper beneficiary waiting for payment has passed on bringing the Death toll of beneficiaries who have died waiting for benefits from Northern Governors to 107

A statement on the official page of the Group Whatsapp of NSGF Beneficiaries said “with Submission to the will of God Almighty, I wish to announce the Death of our Former colleague in Person of Mr Zakka Bitiyong Commercial Printing Department and Radio Room, his death occurred yesterday Night March 11, 2025.”

Investigation revealed that about 29 other Beneficiaries waiting for this payment from Northern Governors are severely sick and hospitalized.

Northern Governors raked in 7 billion naira after selling New Nigerian Newspaper properties in the name of paying NNN beneficiaries but until now no penny has been paid out of the 2.5 Billion naira owed the retirees.

Sokoto govt raises alarm, warn residents on meningitis outbreak

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Sokoto State residents have been advised to remain alert as suspected meningitis cases rise in some local government areas.

This was contained in a statement issued by Nura Maikwanci, the Information/Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Health, Commissioner for Health, Faruk Wurno, on Tuesday.

Maikwanci confirmed that laboratory tests have identified several cases of the disease.

The statement said, “To curb its spread, the Ministry has intensified surveillance, case management, and public health interventions.

“We called on residents to take preventive measures, including seeking immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, severe headache, or neck stiffness.”

It also emphasised the importance of personal and environmental hygiene, avoiding overcrowded places and ensuring proper ventilation in homes and public spaces.

The commissioner urged residents to report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility and assured the public that the state governor, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto has provided essential medications to health centres across the state.

International Women’s Day: CLEEN Foundation Calls for Acceleration of Reserved Seats Bill

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CLEEN Foundation has joined the global community to signpost the International Women’s Day celebration. The event kicked off with a high-level policy dialogue towards Accelerating Action on Women’s Socio-Economic Empowerment and Political Representation – Challenges, Opportunities and Way Forward.

Speaking in a Press Statement signed by
Peter Maduoma Acting Executive Director
CLEEN FOUNDATION, the group said “there is a legacy bill currently at the 10th Assembly. A bill on additional seats for women is about ensuring the structures of governance reflect the strength, leadership and contributions of Nigerian women. It is Bill HB1349, a Bill for an Act to alter the provisions of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide for seat reservation for women in the national and State Houses of Assembly; and for related matters. From the 7th to the 9th Assemblies, this bill suffered various levels of somersaults.”

“We urge the 10th Assembly to muster strength and legislative might to advance this piece of legislation.
In a related development coinciding with the IWD was the allegation of sexual exploitation involving Senator Natasha Akpoti which surfaced some weeks back, sparking widespread discussions about the pervasive nature of gender-based violence. Remember that the 9th Assembly also threw out strategic bills on the eve of a similar celebration. These allegations highlight the urgent need for systemic change and reinforce the importance of accountability, transparency, and support for victims.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the relentless efforts of women around the globe pushing for gender equality and their invaluable contributions to society. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action for Equality,” calls for immediate and effective initiatives to address gender-based injustices, including sexual exploitation and discrimination.” Maduoma stated

He maintained that “the case involving Senator Akpoti serves as a reminder of the broader battle against sexual exploitation. It calls on Senate leaders, Executive, Judiciary, Traditional and Religious leaders to reinforce their commitments to equality by fostering inclusive policies and practices. This includes implementing strict measures against perpetrators, providing resources and support for victims, and elevating women to leadership roles where they can contribute to transformative change. This situation represents an assault on justice, and it poses a risk of a similar miscarriage of justice for every Nigerian woman. We believe that it is unconstitutional to scapegoat women for speaking out against sexual harassment. No legal technicality should overshadow the seriousness of allegations of sexual harassment, which merit a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation.”

“Education and awareness are also critical elements in this fight. By investing in comprehensive education that challenges stereotypes and empowers women and girls, we pave the way for a future where exploitation is no longer tolerated. Moreover, men and boys must be engaged as allies in this cause, understanding their role in promoting equity and respect.
“In honoring International Women’s Day, let us renew our commitment to accelerate action against all forms of gender-based exploitation. It is not only a women’s issue but a societal imperative that affects us all. Together, we can create a world where equality is truly realized, ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for generations to come.” It stressed

Intervene In Leadership Tussle In North, Christian Media Forum Begs CAN President

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The Christian Media Forum (CMF) has appealed to the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, to intervene in the lingering leadership crisis over the chairmanship of the 19 northern states.

The CMF made this appeal in a statement signed by its Secretary, Andrew Ibrahim Mshelia, in Kaduna, made available to journalists on Monday March 10, 2025.

“We urge the warring factions to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance. It is our firm belief that the Christian community should be a beacon of hope, love, and unity, rather than a symbol of division and strife.

“This appeal is made with a deep sense of concern and responsibility to promote peace and unity within the Christian community.

“As a body of Christian media practitioners, we are deeply troubled by the unnecessary leadership tussle that has generated embarrassment not only to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) but also to the Christian faith in general. We believe that this crisis has lingered for far too long and has caused significant damage to the reputation of the Church,” it said.

The group recalled that there has been a lingering leadership crisis in the 19 northern states, with Rev. Pam and Rev. Joseph Hayab both laying claims to the legitimate leadership of the Christian body.

” This crisis has caused confusion, division, and embarrassment to the Christian community, and it is our sincere hope that Archbishop Okoh’s intervention will bring an end to this crisis.

“As Christians, we are called to live in peace and harmony with one another. The Bible teaches us to “live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble” (1 Peter 3:8). We urge the warring factions to embrace this biblical principle and work towards a peaceful resolution of the crisis.

“The CMF is committed to promoting peace, unity, and understanding within the Christian community. We believe that a united and peaceful Christian community is essential for the spread of the Gospel and the advancement of God’s kingdom.

“We appeal to Archbishop Okoh to use his good offices to bring the warring factions together and facilitate a peaceful resolution of the crisis. We are confident that his intervention will bring an end to this crisis and restore peace and unity to the Christian community,” the statement said.

The group also urged the warring factions to be open-minded and willing to compromise.

“We believe that a peaceful resolution of the crisis is possible if all parties are willing to work together in the interest of peace and unity.

“As we await the intervention of Archbishop Okoh, we pray that God will grant us the wisdom, courage, and strength to work towards a peaceful resolution of the crisis. We are confident that with God’s guidance and direction, we will overcome this crisis and emerge stronger and more united than ever before,” CMF added.

In conclusion, the CMF reiterated its appeal to Archbishop Okoh to intervene in the leadership crisis in the 19 northern states.

“We are confident that his intervention will bring an end to this crisis and restore peace and unity to the Christian community,” the statement said.

Kaduna BRT designed to enhance Economy – DG KADSTRA

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The Director General Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim, has said kick starting of the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit ( KBRT) project by Governor Sani”s administration, is more than just any transport initiative, but a game changer, to enhance the economy and development of the state.

DG KADSTRA said this is part of Governor Uba Sani’s urban mobility agenda, aimed at decongesting the city’ roads and enhance the quality of lives of residents and among other things.

The project which is expected to be completed in over 30 months, is a partnership between Kaduna State government and the French government.

He made this known during a Press briefing at Kaduna Press centre, on Friday, where he further called for the support of the Media, Public and stakeholders to make the project a success

” We gather here today to discuss a significant milestone in the transformation of Kaduna State’s transport system: the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project. This project, a cornerstone of the Governor Uba Sani’s urban mobility agenda, is designed to modernize public transportation, decongest city roads, and enhance the overall quality of life for our residents. A Vision for an Efficient Kaduna

” For years, Kaduna has faced transportation challenges, including congestion, unregulated commercial transport operations, and inefficiencies that affect the movement of people and goods. Recognizing the need for a structured and sustainable urban transport system, the KBRT Project was conceived to bring order, safety, and reliability to public transit.”

According to him “This transformative project will introduce a 24-km dedicated transit corridor from Kawo Bridge to Sabon Tasha, with well-structured bus stations and shelters strategically placed along the route. More than just an infrastructural development, KBRT represents a shift towards a modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation system that will enhance mobility, stimulate economic growth, and create job opportunities for Kaduna residents. His Excellency’s Commitment to Urban Development

” The realization of this project would not have been possible without the unwavering support and decisive leadership of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani. After years of planning and delays, the KBRT project faced the risk of further postponement. However, His Excellency intervened with bold financial commitments to ensure its actualization.

” In 2023, Governor Uba Sani directed the release of N97 million as counterpart funding, a crucialmove that revived the implementation of the project. Understanding the strategic importance of a well-functioning transport system, he further allocated N699 million in the 2024 budget to accelerate the execution of KBRT.”

He said ” In the 2025 budget, Governor Uba Sani has made a budgetary provision of N30 billion, with N5 billion set aside as part of the counterpart funding, reinforcing the commitment of his administration to seeing the project through to completion.This commitment underscores the Governor’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and economically
vibrant Kaduna, where infrastructure development is at the heart of sustainable growth.

” The Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), is kickstarting the implementation of KBRT Project. AFD plays a significant role globally in supporting sustainable development projects such as the KBRT, reinforcing its commitment to fostering urban growth, economic stability, and climate-friendly transportation systems worldwide. As the financier of this project, AFD has provided crucial support to ensure its success.

” The Kaduna BRT project, when fully completed, will provide:
• Safer and more reliable transport
• Decongestion of Kaduna urban center
• Reduction of travel time
• Improved road safety and environmental sustainability Moving forward, residents of Kaduna should expect to see visible progress, with the construction of transit corridors and the installation of necessary infrastructure.

See also Kaduna Govt Lifts 12-hour Curfew In Sabon Garin Nasarawa-Tirkaniya

“:As the implementing Agency, KADSTRA recognize the critical role of the media in providing the necessary visibility for the KBRT project. Your support in informing and engaging the public will ensure that residents and stakeholders are carried along throughout the implementation process.

He further pointed out that” The Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project is more than just a transport initiative: it is a game-changer for the economy of Kaduna state and urban development. Through the commitment of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, and the dedication of all stakeholders, we are on track to transform
the way Kaduna moves.

“We call on the public to support this project and embrace the new era of structured, modern, and efficient public transportation in Kaduna.” he added.

NSCDC recovers 25 vandalized water pipelines, arrest 25 years old allege phone thief in Kaduna

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Kaduna State Command has
recovered vandalized 15 pipelines in Nariya community

The Commandant of the Corps, NB Muhammadu Dansadau who said the corps takes custody of the recovered vandalized 15 water pipelines with vehicle, said investigation continues until untill the suspects are arrested

The NSCDC Kaduna State Commandant, NB Muhammadu Dansadau commended the efforts of NSCDC personnel and residents of the area and personnel for prompt recovery of the vandalized water pipelines

CC NB Muhammadu Dansadau further commended the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi PhD mni, Ofr for his unwavering support aimed at ensuring elimination of the activities of vandals in the country.

He also appreciated the efforts of the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani for providing the corps with logistics that would assist in carrying out its responsibilities of protecting lives, property and Critical National Assets and Infrastructure

He assured continue synergy between other security agencies in the state to ensure full protection of lives properties across the state

” I am happy that the activities of vandals are being exposed to the corps and good people of Kaduna State and by the Grace of Almighty God, vandalism will be a thing of the past in Kaduna State

In a related development, the NSCDC personnel of RAPID RESPONSE SQUARD has arrested a suspected 26 years old phone snatcher

The suspect, Mr. Emmanuel Cletus Obo who confessed to the crime said he has sold 5, stolen phones to one ALIYU UMAR who sells phones in Unguwan Rimi,

He also confirmed that he has been snatching phones in Barnawa, Unguwan Rimi, kurmin Mashi, Badikko,Unguwan Sanusi and Kawo, all in Kaduna State

“At about 1841 hours of 18/2/2025, following a credible intelligence the NSCDC KADUNA STATE COMMAND under the able leadership of Commandant Nuhu Bello Muhammadu Dansadau has recorded a huge success in arresting a phone SNATCHER AND A BUYER.

” in a confessional statement the suspect said he has stolen several other phone and sold to would be buyers.

” The Suspect also confirm that he has been snatching phones in Barnawa, Unguwan Rimi, kurmin Mashi, Badikko,Unguwan Sanusi and Kawo while the other phone buyer (AHMED) leave in Unguwan shanu is currently at large.

” Both the phone snatcher and the buyer are currently in our detention facilities for further investigation and possible prosecution”

According to him, the arrested suspect would be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed.

NIGERIA BUDGET AND THE MASSES

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BY TAJUDEEN AJIBADE

PENULTIMATE week, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed into law the 2025 annual budget without any delay.

The President assent and timing will no doubt be recorded as one of the fastest signing of a budget by any sitting President in recent times.

One can say that in theory, the action is laudable, but the implementation, as it was in the past may still keep the hope afar from the citizens.

The signing has given hope that the nation may be on her way to economic recovery and new opportunities, our predicament will be the corrupt elite who only care for themselves at the expenses of the country and her citizens.

Their perfidy and corrupt life style have remained to haunt us as a nation and in all fronts both in economic politics and social development. Nigeria had been besieged by their greedy behavior that has left the ordinary citizens in poverty.

Whether the multi billion naira 2025 budget will bring lot’s of relieve is yet to be seen. Although the budget had been described as commendable by financial experts, especially on the appropriation, which they said will bring more life into the economy, they expressed fear on whether those saddle with the responsibility of executing the budget will not be compromised.

They bemoan of what they called ‘sad stories ‘ in the past budgets, both military and civilians, where cash backing are obtained for projects, and allegedly diverted into private pockets.

There is no doubt that such actions have created misgivings in the minds of the citizens who saw that those involved in corrupt practice were neither called to order or disciplined, as a way to scare away those who want to perpetuate frauds.

In the process, the corruption and the corrupted poses challenges to everything in the society and paved ways for other crimes, such as banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime among others.

The administration of the country must be organized and run in such a way that no one whatever his position in the society be allowed to go scot-free, if found guilty of any offence by a competent Court of jurisdiction.

The 2025 budget must also address the state of Nigeria pensioners and see that they were adequately catered for and monthly stipends pay when is due.Their new increments and arrears have been fully captured in the budget and payment should not be delayed.

Another area the administration should consider is whether pensioners should be given their entitlements when retired in order to start a new life, looking at the trillion of naira paid monthly on Pensioners.

Again, government agents should be giving encouragement in their point of duty, so as not to be involved in any corrupt practice, because of the fear of tomorrow which has become uncertain due to poor renumeration and encouragement.

The disparity in the payment of pension after retirement is not good for a nation such as ours, whereby someone retired and still collect his monthly salary as pension, while others are paid from percentage of the years served. This has also contributed to the large fraud in many government establishment.

As good and promising this year budget is said to be, the government must make sure that money allocated into various projects are not diverted, and any contractor and their backing in the civil service caught should be punished and ban for certain years from working with any government parastatals.

The signing has given hope that the nation may be on her way to economic recovery and new opportunities, our predicament will be the corrupt elite who only care for themselves at the expenses of the country and her people citizens.

Their perfidy and corrupt life style have remained to haunt us as a nation and in all fronts both in economic politics and social development. Nigeria had been besieged by leaders that do not care for the people

In the process, they pose a challenge to everything in the society, which paved way for other crimes from banditry kidnappings, cybercrime and many other bad and condemnable habits.

BREAKING: NNN’s 106 Deaths Toll: Cut off Bureaucracy, save souls now, NUJ President tasks Northern Governors

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The President Nigeria Union of Journalists Comrade Alhassan Yahya has thrown his weight behind the survivors of New Nigerian Newspaper beneficiaries currently waiting for Northern Governors Payment after sales of some of the newspaper assets in the name of settling all liabilities.

Speaking in an exclusive chat with Newsguide Online, Comrade Alhassan Yahya said ” let’s call a spade a spade these people have worked for Northern Governors and they deserved their payments. I will not blame His Excellency the Governor of Gombe State Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya but all Northern Governors should quickly come together and settle this people. It is actually unfair.”

Recalled that Justice Hauwa Buhari of Federal Highcourt Kaduna on the 27th of November 2024 adopted an out of court settlement facilitated by New Nigeria Newspapers Retirees where garnishee order freezing the account holding proceeds of sales New Nigerian Newspaper properties was vacated.

Investigations revealed that 19 days after the adoption of the Out of Court Settlements the claimants Albert Iweka, Idi Sule and others where settled by the Northern States’ Governors in conjunction with Northern Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) and its subsidiary Northern Capital Properties Limited (NCPL) but the New Nigerian Newspaper beneficiaries who facilitated the entire process because of their N2.5B benefits in the garnishee accounts have been abandoned for over 100days now.

Meanwhile, speaking in Press Statement yesterday signed by Alhaji Sadiq Tela and Friday Sule Secretary Elders Forum and Joint Union Chairman respectively, the New Nigerian Newspaper beneficiaries lamented that 106 beneficiaries have died within the 10 Years period of begging Northern Governors for settlements and so many hospitalized, others ejected from their rented apartment and their hungry children out of school.

Sources close to the Northern Governors confirmed that all that is needed is for the Chairman of the Northern States’ Governors Forum (NSGF) Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya to give his approval for the disbursement of the fund to these workers.

Death toll of NNN Beneficiaries awaiting payment under NSGF hits 106, as members beg, prays at Ramadan

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Beneficiaries of New Nigerian Newspapers under Northern States Governors Forum have lamented the protracted dilemma of non payment of their benefits amounting to N2.1B stressing that the death toll of members waiting for this benefit have reached 106 as January 2025.

A statement jointly signed by the Secretary Elders and Joint Union’s Forum Alhaji Sadiq Tela and Joint Union Chairman Friday Sule on behalf of Elders and Joint Union of the New Nigerian Newspapers says “following the recent out of Court settlement between Northern Governors Versus Albert Iweka and Co which was adopted on the 27th of November, 2024 by the Federal High Court as facilitated by New Nigerian Beneficiaries, expectations have being high given the extreme poverty orchestrated by this pending benefits. ”

“Recall that the duo of Barrister Iweka and Idi Sule all former workers of the New Nigerian Newspapers had dragged Northern Governors to Court over payments of check off dues and later obtained a garnishee order that freezed New Capital Properties Limited (NCPL) account where the proceeds of sales of NNN assets was domicile in .

“Following the painstaking efforts by New Nigerian Beneficiaries, the matter was squashed and all garnishee orders instituted earlier vacated and all parties duely settled except New Nigerian Beneficiaries.” It stressed

He pointed that “more than 100 days after the vacation of the 10 years old scorging court matter, all New Nigerian Beneficiaries who served the 19 Northern Governors are still wondering in the wilderness in pains and gnashing of teeth.

The worker however lauded the incumbent Secretary to the State Government of Kaduna have so far soothed our wounds via strategic engagements with the Northern Nigeria Development Company and the Northern Governors Secretariats. “These efforts are Consoling but given the reality of the economic hardship the over 800 Beneficiaries who have almost 10,000 mouths to feed are already in tears.” He added.

It maintained that “the Northern Governors under the leadership of Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State have the deciding powers for the destiny of almost 1000 New Nigerian Beneficiaries

“We sized this opportunity to beg our Northern Governors’ Forum to come to our aid as the death toll of NNN beneficiaries awaiting payment has reached 106 as at January 2025.

“In the Spirit of Ramadan, we beg our Northern Governors to show mercy on our families as most of us are unable to Break fast.”

Rivers Assembly resumes under Amaewhule’s leadership, issues 48-hour notice to Fubara on 2025 budget

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The Rivers State House of Assembly has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara to present the 2025 budget.

The lawmakers made the demand during Monday’s plenary session.

Security was heightened at the Rivers House of Assembly Quarters as the lawmakers held their first sitting after the Supreme Court ruling, under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule.

Governor Fubara signed the ₦1.1 trillion 2025 budget into law on January 2nd, 2025, after presenting it to the lawmakers led by Victor Oko-Jumbo.

However, on Friday, the Supreme Court directed the governor to present the 2024 budget to a properly constituted Assembly.

Fubara had presented the 2024 budget to four members of the Assembly, led by Edison Ehie, the current Chief of Staff to the Governor, after the lawmakers declared the seats of Amaewhule and 26 others vacant.

This followed Amaewhule and the others defection from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC, an action they now deny.

The apex court ruled that Amaewhule and the other 26 members remain lawmakers until their status is determined by the court.

The apex court also instructed Amaewhule to resume sittings with all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The Supreme Court, in the same vein, ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to withhold allocations meant for Rivers State until the government complies with orders.

On their first sitting following the ruling, the Rivers State Assembly requested that Governor Fubara present the budget, titled the ‘Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development’.