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The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has congratulated Prof. Uduma Orji Uduma on his appointment as the Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) by the Governing Council of the institution.
In a letter signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Dr. Monday Uzor, the Governor described the appointment as a testament to Prof. Uduma’s outstanding academic pedigree, sterling leadership qualities, and immense contributions to philosophical scholarship and national development.
The Governor noted that Professor Uduma has over the years brought honour and pride to Ebonyi State and Nigeria through his scholarship, intellectual rigour, and mentorship of younger academics.
Governor Nwifuru expressed the confidence that Prof. Uduma will bring his wealth of experience, vision, and integrity to bear in advancing the mandate of the NOUN, fostering academic excellence and expanding access to quality education in the country.
Governor Nwifuru who “On behalf of the Government and people of Ebonyi State, wishes Prof. Uduma Orji Uduma a successful tenure and God’s continued wisdom, strength, and grace in the discharge of his duties” the letter stated.
Prof. Uduma hails from Nguzu in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State was recently appointed the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN by the governing council of the university effective February 11th, 2026.
At the ongoing World Ports Conference in Kobe-Japan, Port professionals drawn from 64 Countries have endorsed the election of the Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho as Vice-President of the International Association for Ports & Harbours (IAPH).
Coming on the heels of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the National Policy on Marine & Blue Economy, Dantsoho’s election as Vice-President of the IAPH is a testament of Nigeria’s growing influence in the comity of Maritime nations.
IAPH is a non-governmental organization (NGO) headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. In November 1955, some 100 world port leaders gathered in Los Angeles to announce the creation of IAPH. Over the past six decades, IAPH has developed into a global alliance of ports, representing today some 190 ports and 167 port-related businesses in 89 countries as of 6 December 2024. The member ports together handle well over 60% of the world’s sea-borne trade and over 60% of the world container traffic. IAPH aims to be the global trade association of choice for port authorities and operators, representing their interests at regulatory level at the International Maritime Organization, the World Customs Organization, the International Standards Organization and other global alliances such as the Global Maritime Forum and the World Economic Forum.
IAPH has consultative status and works on behalf of ports with additional United Nations bodies such as the UNCTAD (UN Conference on Trade and Development), UNEP (UN Environment Program) and the UN Global Compact.
… Insist Hoodlums Could Hijack it, Unleash Terror on Citizens
The Progressives Unity and Development Forum (PUDF) has cautioned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and rights activist, Omoyele Sowore against the planned nationwide protest aimed at pressuring the Federal Government to release the detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Sowore had earlier reaffirmed that the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow march to the Aso Rock Villa would hold on October 20, describing the date as “sacrosanct.”
In a statement shared on his official social media page, Sowore said preparations were ongoing for what he called a “peaceful march” to demand Kanu’s immediate release.
However, the PUDF, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Mr. Abraham Nwanchukwu, and made available to journalists today, the group expressed concern that the protest could be hijacked by hoodlums and political opportunists who might use the event to unleash violence and attack government buildings.
“Sowore should be told now, before the D-day, that similar protests in the past spiraled out of control, with hoodlums taking advantage to loot and destroy public and private properties,” the statement read in part.
The group cited previous incidents in Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos, where peaceful demonstrations turned violent and resulted in the destruction of public infrastructure.
“Against this background, we are calling on IPOB, Sowore, and other supporters of the planned protest to shelve the action and adopt more civic and responsible means of engagement,” the statement added.
“Nobody has a monopoly of violence, and we are issuing this warning to prevent any action that could provoke counter-reactions or endanger national peace.”
The group urged security agencies to remain vigilant and appealed to Nigerians to avoid being used by those “seeking to destabilize the country under the guise of activism.”
The recent presidential pardon granted to 175 convicts and former convicts has sparked controversy, with many Nigerians questioning the exclusion of suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari. Despite his current legal challenges, Kyari’s contributions to national security and his expertise in combating crime and terrorism are undeniable.
A Matter of Justice and Fairness.
Many have argued that Kyari’s exclusion from the pardon list raises questions about justice and fairness. If the purpose of the pardon is to show mercy and rehabilitation, why was Kyari left out? His case has sparked a national debate, with many calling for his inclusion in the pardon list.
National Security Implications.
Kyari’s expertise in counter-terrorism and intelligence gathering would be invaluable in the ongoing fight against insecurity. His exclusion could potentially deprive the nation of a valuable asset in the battle against crime. The question remains: what message does this send to the public and the international community about Nigeria’s commitment to national security?
A Call for Reconsideration.
As the President considers future pardons and clemency, it is essential to weigh the implications of such decisions on national security, justice, and fairness. The nation needs to utilize all available resources, including experienced personnel like DCP Kyari, to address the pressing security challenges.
In the interest of justice, fairness, and national security, it is worth reconsidering DCP Kyari’s case and exploring options for his inclusion in future pardons or clemency. The nation deserves a comprehensive approach to addressing insecurity, and leveraging the expertise of seasoned professionals like Kyari could be a step in the right direction.
Comrade Musa Mohammed (Moonlight)
Kaduna Based Journalist, Activist and public Analyst
“In principle, the role of EFCC, ICPC and other security agencies is to serve the Nigerian people by ensuring that no public officer abuses office or mismanages resources. However in Kano State – they have fully become political weapons.”
By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi
In recent years, Nigerians have witnessed a troubling trend in the nation’s democratic practice – in the increasing use of federal oversight agencies as political tools. Nowhere is this dynamic more glaring than in Kano State where the federal government’s top officials appear to have systematically deployed regulatory and security institutions to weaken the state government and tilt the balance of power for partisan advantage.
Whereas, in theory, government oversight is the lifeblood of accountability. In practice – at least in Kano State – it has fully become a political weapon. Across a series of investigations, lawsuits and injunctions, federal institutions have been accused of using their powers not to promote good governance, but to undermine it.
“There is increasing use of federal oversight agencies as political tools. Whereas, in theory, government oversight is the lifeblood of accountability. In practice – at least in Kano State – it has fully become a political weapon”
Investigations, eyewitness accounts and review of events reveal disturbing patterns with agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and federal security bodies constitutionally mandated to uphold accountability and the rule of law. In principle, their role is to serve the Nigerian people by ensuring that no public officer abuses office or mismanages resources.
However, in Kano State, these agencies often seem to operate with selective vigour. Investigations, arrests and public pronouncements tend to target state government officials or its allies, while federal appointees and political actors’ aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) largely appear untouched. This pattern not only undermines public trust but also suggests a strategic effort to destabilize the current Kano’s political leadership. Why Kano? The Political Stakes and Political Calculations behind Oversight Overreach Kano is a political prize in Nigeria. With its vast population, it plays a decisive role in national elections. Weakening the state government or creating the perception of dysfunction serves a clear political purpose and electoral logic: it reduces the ability of local leaders to mobilize support, while strengthening the hand of federal-aligned opposition figures.
By leveraging oversight bodies, federal authorities gain the dual advantage of projecting themselves as anti-corruption champions while quietly eroding the political base of their rivals. This is not accountability; it is a calculated suppression.
The Democratic Cost of Targeting State Government Officials in Seemingly Selective and Politically Motivated Anti-Corruption Crackdowns The instrumentalization of federal oversight agencies for political gain carries dire consequences. First, it delegitimizes the agencies themselves, turning them from impartial guardians of accountability into partisan weapons. Second, it erodes federalism, denying states the space to govern effectively without constant interference. Third, it risks alienating citizens, who see law enforcement not as a shield for justice but as a sword of politics. Ultimately, this cycle deepens mistrust between federal and state institutions, widens political divisions and undermines the spirit of Nigeria’s democracy.
A Path Forward For Nigeria to strengthen its democracy, oversight bodies must be insulated from political manipulations. Appointments should be transparent, tenure secure and operations subject to bipartisan legislative scrutiny. Equally, civil society and the media must continue to expose selective enforcement and call for reforms that restore the credibility of these institutions.
Kano State’s experience is a cautionary tale and also an opportunity. By confronting the misuse of federal power, Kanawas and Nigerians can insist on a democracy where oversight agencies serve citizens, not partisan interests.
This personal opinion is contributed by Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Justice/Constitutional Matters
Kaduna State has again taken the lead in progressive women leadership as Hon. Rabi Salisu, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, has emerged Leader of the Forum of Women Commissioners from APC-governed States.
Her unanimous election took place at the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) Agenda Setting Meeting held on October 7, 2025, at the PGF Secretariat in Abuja. The forum, which brings together Women Affairs Commissioners from the 23 APC states, focused on setting a bold agenda for women’s transformative leadership, economic empowerment, and inclusive governance.
Delegates described Hon. Rabi Salisu’s emergence as a major win for Kaduna State, applauding her dynamic leadership and Governor Uba Sani’s strong commitment to women inclusion and empowerment. Her elevation, they said, reflects Kaduna’s growing influence as a model of progressive governance in Northern Nigeria.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the Commissioners passed a Vote of Confidence on all Progressive Governors, commending their people-centered reforms in education, health, agriculture, digital innovation, and youth development.
The Forum also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his courageous reforms, increased inclusion of women and persons with disabilities, and efforts at uniting the nation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Among other resolutions, the Commissioners called for greater synergy between federal and state women empowerment programmes, policy domestication across APC states, and stronger accountability frameworks for inclusive growth.
The meeting, coordinated by the PGF Secretariat under Director-General Folorunso S. Aluko, adjourned to reconvene from December 14 to 16, 2025.
Hon. Rabi Salisu’s new role, according to participants, signals a fresh momentum for women empowerment and cross-state collaboration under the APC’s progressive governance banner.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, CON, has approved the release of ₦2.321 billion for the settlement of pension entitlements, gratuities and death benefits to retirees and families of deceased civil servants across the state.
The disbursement covers Accrued Rights under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and Gratuity/Death Benefits under the old Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS). With this payment, Kaduna State has now paid out ₦6.678bn in 2025 and a total of ₦13.5bn in the last two years of the present administration.
Kaduna State Commissioner of Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, said the welfare of pensioners remains a top priority of the government, stressing that regular and timely payments will continue to ease the hard ship of senior citizens.
According to the Executive Secretary, Ibrahim Balarabe – Kaduna State Pension Bureau, the latest batch will benefit 661 retirees and families across State and Local Governments — with ₦1.736bn for Accrued Rights of 511 retirees under the CPS, and ₦585m for Gratuities and Death Benefits to 315 pensioners and next-of-kin under the DBS.
The Bureau further explained that for those under the Contributory Pension Scheme, their Accrued Rights will be credited directly into their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) with their respective Pension Fund Administrators, while pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme will soon be invited for screening and verification before payment.
Governor Uba Sani has consistently maintained that ensuring dignity for retirees is not just a statutory obligation, but a moral responsibility of government.
This approval, the statement concluded, further underscores the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of pensioners, upholding their rights, and strengthening the trust of the Kaduna workforce.
The Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho has said that the centrality of Abuja coupled with its rich agro-allied potentials is germane to strengthening NPA’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to continuously grow non-oil revenue by connecting local value producers in the non-oil value chain to identified international clusters of demand for their goods.
According to him, the position of Abuja as the centre of the country is strategic to the NPA’s renewed trade facilitation focus that places a high premium on port-hinterland connectivity, which Abuja’s centrality accentuates, presents a seamless linkage with the comparative advantages inherent in all regions of the federation that can be harnessed to sustain growth in the volume and value of Nigeria’s exports.
He said as Nigeria’s foremost trade facilitation platform, the authority is always proud to be associated with the noble cause the Abuja International Trade Fair represents, especially seeing that trade remains the most veritable tool for actualizing most of Nigeria’s economic aspirations.
The NPA MD used the opportunity of the occasion of the “NPA Special Day” to invite the entire trading and investing public to explore the tailor-made simplified export processes and other vistas of opportunity present at the Nigerian Ports Authority.”
He said, “As some of us are aware, in our bid to contribute to the strengthening of the domestic economy through the promotion of balance of trade we established the Export Process Terminal (EPTs) to simplify the hitherto burdensome process of exporting Nigerian goods.”
Dr Dantsoho explained that the EPTs were conceptualized to serve as a one-stop-shop for cargo consolidation, stuffing, documentation, packaging, certification and onward shipment through electronic call-up to the Ports in quick turnaround time thus eliminating the duplications and bureaucratic overlaps that previously rendered Nigerian exports uncompetitive in the international marketplace.
He said to facilitate the port-hinterland connectivity and create pathways for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) to play in the export value chain; the EPTs have been structured to have a seamless handshake with the Domestic Export Warehouses (DEWs) in synergy with the Nigerian Exports Promotion Council (NEPC) as well as the Inland Dry Ports.
“To align with the economic stabilization resolve of the Federal Government and the theme of the year’s fair ‘Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation’ we are unifying our various operational channels into a singular transaction gateway known as the Ports Community System (PCS) which lays the groundwork for the implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) which sustainably eliminates all forms of opacity and attendant delays associated with undue human interference,” he stated.
Dr Dantsoho further explained that the NSW is the global best practice for delivering the greatest value with the greatest ease by connecting all stakeholders in the trade value chain for seamless interaction at the push of a button, saying NPA has put measures in place to link value creators in the remotest part of the hinterland with the farthest clusters of demand anywhere on the globe.
He assured every stakeholder that the doors of NPA are always open for partnerships even beyond the trade fair, urging them to visit the NPA’s fully interactive online real time website http://www.nigerianports.gov.ng to access our growth offerings.
My dear good people of Kaduna State, On this 1st day of October, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating our beloved nation’s Independence Day. Today, we remember the courage, sacrifices, and vision of our founding fathers who dreamed of a united, just, and prosperous Nigeria. As a people, we have faced challenges, but we have also witnessed the resilience and strength that define us. Kaduna State, our pride and heritage, remains a land of great potential, blessed with diversity, resources, and hardworking citizens. This is a time for us to renew our hope, strengthen our unity, and commit ourselves to building a Kaduna State where peace, justice, and development are not just ideals but realities. As we look to the future, let us not lose sight of the promise of a better Kaduna. Together, with God’s help and our collective effort, we can rise above our differences and create a state where every citizen enjoys dignity, opportunity, and security. I celebrate with you today, and I look forward to a brighter tomorrow for Kaduna State and for Nigeria. Happy Independence Day!
God bless Kaduna State. God bless Nigeria.
Rev. Dr. Benjamin C. Mamman Governorship Aspirant, ADC, Kaduna State (2027)
Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and former Governor of Zamfara State, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, has joined millions of citizens to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day, describing it as a sacred milestone that embodies the nation’s resilience, unity, and unwavering hope.
In a congratulatory message, Senator Yari extended warm felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and to all Nigerians at home and abroad, stressing that October 1st goes beyond a date on the calendar. According to him, it represents the triumph of self-determination, the promise of self-governance, and the collective pursuit of a prosperous future.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, the Zamfara-born statesman urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers, the courage of its people, and the enduring strength in its diversity. “From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene hills of Jos, from the industrious East to the proud heritage of the North—we are one Nigeria, bound by shared dreams and a common purpose,” he declared.
Senator Yari commended President Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to national development, security, and economic revitalization. He expressed confidence that the National Day celebration would rekindle a collective resolve to build a just and peaceful society where opportunities abound for all citizens.
“To every Nigerian, I say: stand tall, be proud, and keep believing. The journey may be long, but our spirit is unbreakable. Together, we shall rise,” Yari affirmed in an inspiring message to citizens.
He prayed for divine blessings on Nigeria, adding: “Happy Independence Day, Nigeria. May God bless our homeland and guide her path.”
REACH-24 