News

Borno Celebrates Nigeria’s Longest serving Assembly Speaker Rt Hon Lawan

Published

4 years ago

February 19, 2022

***Marks Ten years in office, as lawmakers lavish encomiums.

By Ali Musa Biu- Maiduguri

Nigeria’s longest serving Speaker of a state House of Assembly, Rt Hon Abdulkarim Lawan, who is also the Speaker Borno State House of Assembly, on Wednesday 9th February 2022) marked his uninterrupted leadership.
Having clocked 10 years in office, Lawan emerged Speaker on Thursday 9th February 2012, after the impeachment of his predecessor, Hon Goni Ali Modu.

Borno which has been an epicentre of insurgents in the last 13 years, has witnessed unprecedented developments, specifically in the area of Education, Agricultural revolution, heath care delivery service, poverty alleviation, securing lives and property of the citizenry and managing the plight of millions Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs in camps, reconstruction, rehabilitation, resettlement processes and ongoing stabilization efforts in liberated communities under the leadership of Governor Babagana Zulum despite the unfortunate activities of the sect members.

This is even as the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Abdullahi Askira and other Lawmakers have continued to pour their encomium on the Speaker for his simplicity, principles and transparency in all legislative matters in the last 10 years, describing him as a detribalized politician.

Although, reconstruction, rehabilitation and relocation of IDPs started during the tenure of former Governor Kashim Shettima, now Senator representing Borno Central, continual efforts were carried out by the present administration, as most of the Local Government Areas of Nothern Borno Senatorial District as well as communities in Central and Southern parts of the state were carried out by Governor Zulum APC led administration under the state Chairmanship of Hon Ali Bukar Dalori, with support from the members of the state House of Assembly, Judiciary, Media, security agencies and development partners among others, which led to millions of IDPs return to their liberated communities voluntarily.

With the cordial relationship that exist between the Executives, Judiciary and the Legislatures, being spearheaded by the Most humble and gentle looking Speaker, his Deputy, Abdullahi Askira and the entire House, Governor Zulum has within just two and half years executed over 600 people oriented projects spread across the 27 local government areas.

Lawan while speaking to Vanguard exclusively on Wednesday thanked Allah (God), and the present government under the leadership of Professor Governor Zulum, his colleagues at the assembly, and the good people of the state, especially those from his constituency (Guzamala) for giving him the mandate to offer service to humanity.

He then passed a vote of confidence on the leadership style of Zulum’s APC- led administration, especially in the ongoing stabilization and resettlement of millions of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs back to their ancestral homes.

Lawan said, during the years under review, uncountable Bills were passed into law under his leadership, however, he explained that, he always feel proud of the Bill passed which led to the establishment of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) that came into force in 2013 as a volunteer group helping the military to combat Boko Haram, and as well the Bill that was recently passed and signed into law for domestication of Child Rights Protection Act, which will provide western education, healthcare delivery service and other needful for children roaming about the streets in the state.

His words: “On behalf of humble myself and family, i want to use this opportunity to thank God Almighty for making it possible for me to clock 10 years of uninterrupted leadership in office.

“I want to also commend government, all my colleagues at the assembly, and the good people of the state, especially those from my constituency (Guzamala) for their unflinching support and by giving me the mandate to offer service to humanity.

“I want to also express confidence on the leadership style of governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum’s APC- led administration, especially in the ongoing stabilization and Resettlement of millions of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs back to their ancestral homes as well as execution of over 600 people oriented projects across the 27 Local Government Areas.

“Since the establishment of the Civilian-JTF there has been a tremendous improvement in return of gradual peace, and relationship between the civilian populace and the armed forces.

“I want to pay tribute to all our gallant officers and men who have paid the supreme sacrifices for us to have peace in this part of the world” he said, adding that the tribute also was for CJTF, many of whom have died, paying the far reaching sacrifice for the state to have peace.” The Speaker stated.

He equally enjoined the people of the state to continue give their maximum support to the present administration of governor Zulum’s transparent and accountable leadership which has taken Borno to greater height within the shortest time.

Shedding more light, the Deputy Speaker, Hon Engr Abdullahi Askira in an interview described Lawan as a Team Player, very humble and hardworking Legislator, who believes in transparency and rule of law in all his dealings in the House.

Rt Hon Askira stated that in the last 10 years, the Speaker has brought stability and due process, as we have never had any problem among ourselves, as we operates rancor free despite our ethnic or socio cultural backgrounds.

“Recall that at a point in time, youths became worried over the incessant killings and destruction of properties by insurgents, and the House under the leadership of the Speaker had to pass the Bill for establishment or emergence of the Civilian JTF.

“The constitution of the Civilian JTF was a Child of Necessity, which has brought sanity, normalcy and peace not only in Borno, the north east, but the country as a whole. Infact, it was when Borno established it’s own Civilian JTF before some other states of the federation started emulating us, so the credit must be given to the Speaker in this regard.” Said the Deputy Speaker.

On the recent passing into law of the Child Rights Act/ Violence Against Persons (VAPs), and subsequent signing into law by governor Zulum, the Deputy Speaker said, it took the House more than nine months, studying the voluminous and contentious nature of the Bill, before we engaged all stakeholders who critically contributed by coming up with some clauses that replaced the ones that suit our own system.

According to member representing Hawul State Constituency, Hon Ayuba Wakawa said, “Hon Abdulkarim Lawan is a natural born leader who united the House under one umbrella for the common good of Borno state, I tend to learnt alot Working with him”.

Likewise, Member Representing Marte Local Government Area, Hon. Engr Mohammed Gambomi in his response said,

“It is neither by accident nor by surprise for Hon Abdulkarim Lawan to be leading the Borno House of Assembly for over 10 years as Speaker.

“Indeed his honesty, transparency, respect for the rule of law and his principle of ‘one for all, all for one’, have made him a Leader with respect and integrity. I congratulate him and wish him well.”

Another Member representing Nganzai State Constituency, Hon Mohammed Ali Gajiram said, “the Speaker has exhibits successful leadership, by making the lives of his team members and workers better.

“This he achieved by setting a harmonious working relationship between the House and the Executive, by maintaining a cordial relationship with the entire assembly members and the management”.

Also in an interview with the Senior Special Assistant on Media & Publicity to the Speaker, Maina Ma’aji Maina Modu said, “in recognition of the people oriented legislation under Lawan’s leadership, the articulated parliamentarian, administrator and manager per excellence has received a number of awards which includes; Excellent Leadership and Good Government Award by the National Institute of public Administration and Management Development, Peace Ambassador by Universal peace Foundation during the First African Summit on Agriculture in Dakar, Senegal, as well as Anti Corruption Ambassador (M Clean) by ICPC and Foundation for Transparency and Accountability (FTA) and host of others too numerous to mention.

News

As Consultations Intensify, Maikaya Unveils Youth Employment Revolution for Nasarawa

Published

3 days ago

November 15, 2025

milcah

Renowned development advocate and founder of the Maikaya Development Foundation, Dr. Muhammed Musa Maikaya, has intensified consultations with stakeholders across the three geopolitical zones of Nasarawa State as he engages widely on a transformative vision aimed at tackling youth unemployment and repositioning the state for inclusive development.

Speaking to journalists on Saturday, Dr. Maikaya unveiled what he described as an ambitious and data-driven youth employment revolution, promising that “no graduate will return home to roam the streets after NYSC” if he is elected governor.

Dr. Maikaya, who was a leading aspirant in the 2019 APC governorship primaries before stepping down under a consensus arrangement, said his renewed aspiration is driven by his commitment to service, innovation, and inclusive development.

According to him, his newly launched ideology, tagged New Vision, Real Impact for Nasarawa, was inspired by the realities of ordinary citizens across the state. “My inspiration comes from the people,” he said. “I was born in Toto and raised among hardworking men and women who dream of better opportunities. My 25-year international experience has shown me how visionary leadership transforms societies.”

On the state’s development trajectory, he noted that Nasarawa has made measurable progress since its creation in 1996, especially in infrastructure, education, and ICT. However, he stressed that “far more needs to be done to unlock its full potential.”

Unveiling his central agenda, Dr. Maikaya said youth empowerment remains “the heartbeat” of his vision. To achieve this, he announced plans to establish a Nasarawa Directorate of Employment (NDE), which will serve as a central employment and empowerment hub for all youths in the state.

“The Directorate will record, profile, support, and ensure every qualified youth is employed or empowered,” he said. He explained that the agency will operate a Post-NYSC Youth Capture System to digitally register every graduate immediately after service, monitor federal job openings, and push qualified candidates forward for placement in agencies such as Immigration, Customs, NSCDC, Road Safety Corps, and federal ministries.

He added that the Directorate would “partner with the private sector, industries, and financial institutions to create employment linkages” while offering structured training in ICT, agriculture, renewable energy, mechanics, fabrication, fashion, hospitality, film, and creative arts.

Dr. Maikaya further revealed a Two-Year Enterprise Support Programme that will provide start-up capital, tools, mentorship, and monitored business development support to young entrepreneurs across the state.

Describing the proposal as realistic, he stated that funding would come from state budgetary provisions, public–private partnerships, development agencies, federal employment grants, and returns from state-owned enterprises. “With intentional leadership and transparency, resources will align,” he assured.

He argued that his model as sustainable. According to him, “For the first time, Nasarawa will be able to say: ‘We know every graduate, their skills, where they can fit in, and we are responsible for helping them succeed.’”

Addressing the needs of youths without formal education, he maintained that “every youth matters,” promising massive investment in artisanship, technical skills, sports, agriculture, local manufacturing, renewable energy installation, and digital economy skills.

Dr. Maikaya also pledged to continue and improve on the achievements of the current administration, saying, “Governor Abdullahi Sule has done remarkably well in industrialization, solid minerals, ease of doing business, and infrastructure. Leadership is about continuity, improvement, and innovation.”

Highlighting broader economic goals, he said his New Vision agenda rests on key pillars including economic diversification, human capital development, healthcare, infrastructure renewal, empowerment of women and youths, security, institutional reforms, and environmental sustainability.

To the youths of Nasarawa, he delivered a message of hope: “Do not give up. Your dreams matter. With structured empowerment and good governance, Nasarawa youths will no longer roam the streets, they will lead the economy.”

Dr. Maikaya further pledged integrity and impact-driven governance. “I promise integrity, competence, and compassion. A government that listens, delivers, and makes real impact. Together, we will build a Nasarawa that works for all.”

News

BAVCCA to submit bill against misinformation, backs IGP Egbetokun’s stance on spread of falsehood

Published

4 days ago

November 14, 2025

milcah

The Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association of Nigeria (BAVCCA) has backed the Stance of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, following his warning on the devastating impact of misinformation in the country.

The development was made known in a statement jointly signed by BAVCCA’s National President and Secretary, Ikechukwu Chukwunyere and Tabuko Kennedy on Thursday in Abuja.

Ikechukwu, while quoting IGP Kayode Egbetokun verbatim, “Misinformation has become a silent bomb; it does not destroy buildings; it destroys trust. A single false post can cause chaos faster than a bullet can travel.” – stressed that the Police Chief’s comment is a clarion call to every Nigerian, creator, sharer, or citizen.

He further warned that the spread of falsehoods is not a bloggers-only problem; it is a national security threat that demands collective action.

BAVCCA also disclosed plans to formally submit the Digital Content Practitioners (Registration and Regulation) Bill, 2025, to the National Assembly, a bill that seeks mandatory registration of all bloggers, vloggers, podcasters, social media influencers, and online journalists with a National Digital Content Registry.

The group also vowed to name, shame, and prosecute any creator—inside or outside its fold—who weaponizes lies, set up a fact-checking platform, while pledging full support to law enforcement.

The statement reads in part:

The Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association of Nigeria (BAVCCA) stands united with the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, in sounding the alarm on the devastating impact of misinformation.

This is a clarion call to every Nigerian—creator, sharer, or citizen. The spread of falsehoods is not a bloggers-only problem; it is a national security threat that demands collective action.

LANDMARK LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVE
BAVCCA shall be formally submitting the Digital Content Practitioners (Registration and Regulation) Bill, 2025 to the National Assembly. The bill seeks:
Mandatory registration of all bloggers, vloggers, podcasters, social media influencers, and online journalists with a National Digital Content Registry.
Annual licensing tied to verifiable identity, ethics training, and compliance with the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, Nigerian Data Protection Act 2023, and NUJ Code of Ethics.

Criminal penalties for unregistered operators who publish content that incites violence, spreads health disinformation,

Universal Pre-Publication Fact-Check Mandate
Every individual or platform publishing content on security, health, religion, or politics must verify with at least two independent, credible sources before posting. BAVCCA launches the #VerifyWith2 public campaign to enforce this standard.

National Misinformation Rapid Response Network (MRRN)
A coalition of fact-checkers, tech platforms, and civil society, led by BAVCCA, will operate a 24/7 hotline (0700-VERIFY-NG) and app for real-time debunking. Any viral false claim will trigger automated community notes on X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Prosecution Without Fear or Favor

BAVCCA pledges full support to law enforcement. Under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Act, any person—member or non-member—who knowingly spreads false information that endangers public safety will face arrest and prosecution. We shall submit a list of 47 repeat offenders to the Nigeria Police Cybercrime Unit.

Free Annual Ethics & AI Literacy Training
Starting 1 January 2026, BAVCCA will offer nationwide free workshops (physical and virtual) on spotting deepfakes, algorithmic bias, and responsible content creation. Certification will be required for registration under the new bill.

₦50 Million Whistleblower Reward Fund
Open to all Nigerians. Report verified fake news via verify@bavcca.org.ng and earn up to ₦100,000 per confirmed case. Funds are seeded by BAVCCA and corporate partners.

Tech Platform Accountability Pact
BAVCCA has secured commitments from Meta, Google, TikTok, and X to:
Prioritize fact-checked content in Nigerian feeds
Demonetize accounts with 3+ verified misinformation strikes
Share anonymized data on viral falsehoods with the MRRN

A CALL TO EVERY NIGERIAN
Creators: Register now at registry.bavcca.org.ng. Your license is your shield and your duty.

Citizens: Pause. Verify. Report. Use #BAVCCAVerify to tag suspicious posts.
Parents & Teachers: Teach digital literacy—misinformation starts in group chats.
Government & Platforms: Fast-track the Digital Content Bill. The time for voluntary compliance is over.

BAVCCA will name, shame, and prosecute any creator—inside or outside our fold—who weaponizes lies. Truth is not negotiable,” the statement concluded.

News

15% import duty deferment: Coalition warns against strangulating local industries

Published

5 days ago

November 13, 2025

milcah

Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, NCCSO, has faulted the directive of the federal government’s deferment of the 15% import duty on premium motor spirit (PMS) and diesel to the first quarter of 2026 describing it as strategic move to strangulate local refineries and also victory for foreign fuel importers and their local collaborators.

NCCSO expressed this displeasure on Thursday in press statement issued in Abuja by its National Spokesperson, Comrade Mustapha Ahmed, saying the deferment to first quarter of 2026 must be wrong and should be totally discouraged, with no further extensions.

They said the government must resist pressures from international traders and uphold its commitment to energy independence, calling on all relevant agencies to monitor imports to prevent market distortion during the deferment period.

According to the coalition, “The deferment is a temporary win for importers but a setback for Nigeria’s refining future. President Bola Tinubu must remain resolute and protect Nigeria’s local industries from external manipulation”, NCCSO said.

The statement further reads: “The NCCSO expresses deep concern over the Federal Government’s decision to defer the commencement of the 15% ad-valorem import duty on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Diesel to the first quarter of 2026, as contained in the memo approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on November 7, 2025.

“While the decision is presented as an administrative adjustment for “technical alignment,” it is in fact a strategic victory for foreign fuel importers and their local collaborators, whose agenda is to keep Nigeria dependent on imported products and frustrate the growth of local refineries such as Dangote Refinery and other modular plants ready for operation.

“The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), led by Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Ph.D., had earlier proposed the levy to promote local refining, stabilize market prices, and ensure competitive balance — in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda. However, this deferment gives importers time to flood the market with imported fuel, thereby undermining local production and discouraging investment”.