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Insecurity: North-East Governors Talk Tough.

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Governors of the North East Nigeria ended the 8th Meeting of the North-East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) in Maiduguri,
Borno State, with stern stance on insecurity.

The Forum (NEGF), which comprises the Governors of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe,Gombe and Taraba States, expressed fears over new dimensions to crime and criminality in the region, with a resolve to take more drastic stands.
While first apprecuating the level of cooperation and collaboration amongst member states, the Governors reiterated theur commitment to foster a common ground in the pursuit of lasting peace in the sub region.
A ten point commu ique, signed by the Chairman of the NEGF, and Governor of Borno state, Professir Babagana Umara Zulum stated amongst other things, that “the Forum appreciated the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Senator Kashim Shettima for gracing the opening ceremony of the 8th meeting of the NEGF and the Government and People of Borno State for hosting the event.”

“2. While acknowledging the relative success recorded against insurgency, a new dimension of growing banditry is added to worsen the security situation in the subregion. As a result of the concerted efforts of the Military to flush bandits from the other parts of the country, the bandits are now moving towards the Northeast. The case is becoming worse in Bauchi, Gombe and Taraba, places hitherto without banditry. The Forum calls on the Federal Government to urgently intervene to address this issue.

3. The Forum is aware that some traditional rulers and other local authorities are conniving with the bandits, giving them shelter and cover to commit crimes within the subregion. The Forum unanimously resolved to decisively deal with any Traditional ruler or community leader that is found to be harbouring or conniving with the bandits.

4. The proliferation of mining in the region is becoming a problem. This includes both legal and illegal mining. It noted the link between mining activities and insecurity especially the abuse of the mining leases. The Forum calls on the respective Governments to enforce compliance with the provisions of local consent as contained in Nigeria’s Mining Policy. The Forum reiterated its call for strict compliance with the provisions of the Land Use Act.

5. Forum noted with great concern that Climate Change and environmental degradation is a major issue affecting the subregion. The issue of flooding that had affected the States leading to destruction of properties and loss of livelihoods is increasing the sufferings of the people. This has been compounded by the silting of our rivers as well as deforestation brought about by the massive charcoal business. There is the need for the Federal Government’ intervention in the area of desilting the rivers. Furthermore, there is the need for effective control on deforestation with stern regulation to local authorities against compromise to granting approvals for such business. The Forum has resolved to key into the Global Initiative of Carbon Credi, the Great Green wall and other initiatives that will mitigate the devasting impact of climate change in the subregion.

6. Forum noted with dismay the seeming neglect of road and railway infrastructure especially along the economic corridors that links the Northeast subregion to the rest of the country. The Roads from Enugu to Maiduguri is in deplorable State. Equally worse is the railway from the Enugu up to Maiduguri which has been destroyed. The Forum is calling on the Federal Government to look into the situation and consider the reconstruction of these basic infrastructure along Enugu-Maiduguri Economic Corridor. This is a major route for regional trade and very important for integration, peace building and improving national unity.

7. The Forum agreed that all the States within the subregion are to domesticate the Education Law 2022, as recommended by the Northeast Education Council earlier constituted by the Forum.

8. The Forum charges the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) to be more proactive with the issues of development in the subregion. Its intervention should be well prioritized in short, medium and long term to take care of the sustainable development needs of the people within the subregion.

9. The forum resolved to promote subregional commerce among member States. It further agreed to resuscitate the northeast trade fair to be held in Bauchi in January, 2024.

10. The Forum resolved to hold the 9th Meeting in Yola, Adamawa State between Friday 3rd – Saturday 4th – November, 2023.”

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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE

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The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion

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Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.

In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.

According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.

“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.

The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.

“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.

Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.

“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.

Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.

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Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity

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A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.

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