Gov. Buni Conducts Suprise Inspection of Ongoing Projects

Gov. Buni with Works Commissioner Engr. Dudaye(immediate right) during inspection at one of the sites.

From Joe Hemba

Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, made an unscheduled visit to several project sites in Damaturu yesterday to assess the progress and quality of work. 

The projects included township roads and a health facility at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital.

During the visit, Governor Buni emphasized the importance of the road projects in improving transportation and socio-economic development in the communities. 

He also highlighted the significance of good roads in achieving the state's post-insurgency agenda and preventing annual floods.

The governor expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work, but charged the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Umaru Wakil Dudaye, to ensure that all projects provide value for money. 

He also urged contractors to adhere to specifications and contractual agreements.

The Commissioner for Works assured the governor that his ministry is closely supervising all projects to ensure compliance with specifications. 

He added that the state government is currently executing additional 7km of road projects and 14km of concrete drainages in Damaturu metropolis.

Governor Buni also visited the College of Medical Sciences at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, where he inspected the progress of work on the project. He assured that the government will ensure timely completion of the projects for the benefit of the people.

This surprise inspection visit demonstrates Governor Buni's commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, as well as his dedication to delivering quality projects that meet the needs of the people of Yobe State.

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Gov. Buni Reaffirms Commitment to Healthcare Advancements in State

Gov. Buni addressing the meeting of traditional rulers and  stakeholders in the Health sector in Damaturu

From JOE Hemba

In a momentous gathering at the Government House in Damaturu today, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni addressed traditional rulers, stakeholders, and the public, reaffirming the state's unwavering commitment to the improvement of healthcare services. 

The event showcased the state's significant achievements in the Primary Health Care sector and outlined future strategies to enhance the overall well-being of its citizens.

In his address, Gov. Buni  celebrated  the successful establishment and commissioning of 139 out of the proposed 178 functional Primary Healthcare facilities across the state. He emphasized the critical role these facilities play as the entry point and foundation of general healthcare services, providing quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare to the populace.

Acknowledging the support received, Governor Buni expressed gratitude to traditional rulers for their cooperation and continuous efforts in sensitizing the public about the importance of accessing Primary Healthcare Centres. He also extended appreciation to various organizations, including the Bill And Melinda Gates Foundation, Aliko Dangote Foundation, World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and AFENET, for their invaluable support.

Highlighting the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Aliko Dangote Foundation, and UNICEF in August 2021, Governor Buni assured the attendees of the state's unwavering commitment to the MoU and its continuous efforts to strengthen integrated Primary Healthcare services.

The governor proudly announced the allocation of 15 percent of the 2024 budget to the health sector, aligning with the Abuja declaration, Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This commitment reflects the administration's dedication to improving healthcare accessibility and achieving better health outcomes for the citizens.

Governor Buni detailed the administration's deliberate policy of institutionalizing human capital development to align with the government's health development policy. He highlighted the establishment of the Yobe State Contributory Health Care Management Agency (YSCHMA) and Yobe State Drugs and Medical Consumables Management Agency (YODMA) to address healthcare financing and provision of quality drugs.

To ensure regulated healthcare service delivery, the governor announced the establishment of the Yobe State Health and Health-Related Facilities Inspection and Monitoring Agency (YOHFIMA) and the Yobe State Emergency Medical Ambulance Services Agency (YEMABUS). Upgrades to several Primary Healthcare Centers and General Hospitals, along with the transformation of four hospitals into Specialist Hospitals, were also outlined as part of the administration's commitment to extending quality healthcare services to more communities.

Governor Buni concluded by calling on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and opinion influencers to support the government's vaccination efforts, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all eligible children, pregnant mothers, and others receive the necessary doses.

Partners in the health sectors including UNICEF, Bill Malinda & Gate Foundation, Aliko Dangote Afenet all presented good will messages at the event.

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World Bank Project Office Burnt to Ashes in Yobe

The World Bank Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project office in Yobe State suffered a devastating fire, resulting in the complete destruction of all office documents. 

The inferno, suspected to be caused by an electrical spark, began around 1.30 pm on Sunday, despite efforts by firefighters who were overwhelmed by the rapidly spreading flames.

The Executive Director of Yobe State Fire Services, Alhaji Adamu Jauro Umaru, stated that the fire had already engulfed the entire building by the time his team arrived. 

The exact cause is yet to be determined pending investigation.

Concerns have been raised about the building's compliance with fire safety protocols. Alhaji Adamu Jauro Umaru mentioned that a lack of hydrants in the water dam hampered firefighting efforts. 

IMPACTONLINENIGERIA  leant that external support from the University Fire Service and the Teaching Hospital was required to bring the situation under control.

A security personnel on duty reported discovering the fire during a routine stroll behind the building. Thick smoke was observed, and by the time he investigated, offices between C1, C2, and Communication were already in flames.

The timing of the incident is noteworthy, occurring less than a month after a World Bank team visited Yobe State on November 1st to assess the projects undertaken by the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project. 

The impact of this unfortunate incident on the recovery efforts in Yobe, particularly concerning the Boko Haram crisis, remains a matter of concern. The destruction of crucial documents and potential disruption to project-related activities could adversely affect the ongoing recovery initiatives in the state. 

The loss of valuable information and the setback in project management caused by the fire may pose challenges to the effective implementation and monitoring of programs aimed at addressing the aftermath of the Boko Haram crisis in Yobe State.

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Yobe Federal Lawmaker Empowers Constituents on Poultry, Fishery skills

From JOE Hemba

In a dedicated effort to enhance the economic prospects of his constituents, Hassan K. Jakduwa aka  IBN Jaks, the Federal House of Representatives member for Bade/Jakusko constituency, has spearheaded a transformative initiative. 

This initiative involved organizing a comprehensive training session for 250 individuals within his constituency, focusing on the domains of Fishery and Poultry Farming.

Conducted at the Saleh Suleiman Event Center in Gashua, Yobe State.

The  one-day intensive training was led by Malam Haruna Mamman, a distinguished fishery expert, and Malam Musa Mustapha, an accomplished livestock expert. 

The opening ceremony was graced by Malam Salisu Jawi, representing RT. Hon. Jakduwa, who underscored the primary goal of the initiative.

 "The objective behind training 250 individuals in fishery and poultry is to alleviate poverty in the region and empower them to be self-reliant, Ibn JAKS explained"

As part of the empowerment initiative, each participant received a capital of 30,000 naira to facilitate the prompt initiation of income-generating activities.

 The 250 participants were carefully selected from the 20 electoral wards under the Bade/Jakusko Federal Constituency, encompassing diverse age groups and genders.

One of the beneficiaries collecting his cash support

IMPACTONLINENIGERIA gathered that  participants gained valuable insights into the general knowledge of fishery and poultry farming, essential prerequisites before starting their farms, investment strategies with realistic profit expectations, and various types/methods of fish and poultry farming. Practical aspects, such as constructing a fish pond and poultry farm management, were also covered.

Expressing gratitude in a vote of thanks, one of the  participants Hauwa Saleh commended the lawmaker for the capacity-building initiative and prayed for continued engagement in various skill areas.

Another beneficiary,  Malam Usman Abdullahi echoed similar sentiments, urging participants to effectively utilize the knowledge acquired during the training.

Furthermore, Hassan K. Jakduwa extended his benevolence by facilitating the distribution of 1260 (100kg) bags of Millet (420 bags), Maize (420 bags), and Guinea Corn (420 bags). 

Additionally, 275 bags (100kg) of Beans Seedling and 275 bags (50kg) of N.P.K. 15.15.15 were distributed across the 20 wards of Bade/Jakusko Federal Constituency, benefitting various household heads, including widows, the physically challenged, and different groups/associations.

This multi-faceted initiative is poised not only to impact and improve the livelihoods of the participants but also to stimulate economic activities within the constituency. The overarching goal is to foster self-dependency and alleviate poverty in the region.

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Yobe Governor Extends Support to Grieving Family of man killed by military truck

The Emir with the family and government officials including Army after the presentation of the cash and house to the family of the victim killed by military truck in Damaturu

by JOE Hemba

In a heartfelt gesture of compassion, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has provided solace to the bereaved family of the late Mohammed Ali, who tragically lost his life in an accident involving a military truck in Damaturu a few weeks ago.

Governor Buni, through his Special Adviser on Religious Affairs, Ustaz Babagana Mallam Kyari Babagana Kyari, presented a generous package to the grieving family during a solemn ceremony at the Palace of the Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Umar Al-Amin El-Kanemi.

The assistance included the procurement of a residence valued at Seven Million Naira for the late Ali's children, along with a substantial cash donation of Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira. Governor Buni also pledged ongoing support for the basic education of the bereaved children.

Ustaz Kyari conveyed the governor's heartfelt condolences, emphasizing that the aid provided was not intended as compensation for their loss but as a form of social protection during this difficult time. He urged the widow to find strength in the face of adversity and expressed prayers for the deceased's soul to rest in Al-Jannatul Firdaus.

The Emir of Damaturu, Alhaji Dr. Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Umar Al-Amin El-Kanemi, echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the inevitability of mortality. He expressed gratitude to Governor Buni for the compassionate gesture and offered prayers for the departed soul.

The presentation ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Brig. Gen. Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), and the Commanding Officer of 233 Battalion, Lt. Col. G. Abdul, along with other senior military officers in the state.

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University of Maiduguri Celebrates Grand Convocation with Over 33,000 Graduates

VP Kashim Shettima in a handshake with Gov. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State while Taraba Governor Kefas watches with admiration 

By JOE Hemba

The University of Maiduguri marked a momentous occasion today as it celebrated its 24th combined convocation ceremony at the prestigious Muhammadu Indimi International Conference Hall. A staggering 33,429 students graduated, showcasing the institution's commitment to academic excellence and knowledge dissemination.

Breaking down the impressive numbers, 20,048 graduates emerged from regular undergraduate programs, while 6,940 completed their studies in affiliated colleges. Additionally, 3,032 students from the Center for Distance Learning contributed to the remarkable total. Among these graduates, 147 students achieved the highest honors by earning first-class distinctions.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Aliyu Shugaba, highlighted the diverse academic achievements, revealing that 113 individuals earned Doctorate Degrees, 817 attained Masters Degrees, and 902 were awarded Postgraduate Diplomas.

The convocation ceremony also served as a platform to recognize exceptional contributions to society, as Vice President Kashim Shettima Shettima GCON, the Shehu of Borno Alh. Abubakar Ibn Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, Former Registrar of the University Alh. Dahiru Bobbo, and Alh. Abdulsamad Rabiu were honored with Honourary Doctorate Degrees.

HRH Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Umar Ibn Garba El-Kanemi, the Shehu of Borno, Abdul-Samad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, and Dr. Dahiru Bobbo, former registrar of the institution, were also decorated with honorary doctorates. Prof. Aliyu Shugaba, the Vice-Chancellor, explained that these honorary titles were conferred in recognition of their remarkable support to the institution and Nigeria at large.

In addition to the celebrations, the University announced the appointment of three Professors emeritus: Abubakar Mustapha, Mohammed Yerima Balla, and Bamidele Rotimi Badejo.

The event drew dignitaries from across the nation, with Governor Buni in attendance along with governors from Nasarawa and Taraba states, host Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, and various ministers. The convocation underscored the University's pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape and fostering knowledge-driven development.

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Yobe PDP Lawmaker Defects to APC, cites Developmental impact

Hon. Lawan Musa Majakura displaying APC flag after his defection from PDP today

From  JOE Hemba 

In a significant political move of his life, Hon. Lawan Musa Majakura, the lone representative of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Yobe State House of Assembly, officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) today.

The ceremony which took place at the official residence of Gov. Mai Mala Buni at the Government House this evening saw the Speaker of Yobe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio, the Deputy Speaker Hon. Yau Daachia and other members of the State House of Assembly accompanied their colleague for the event.

Gov. Mai Mala Buni in his remarks was particularly impressed by the youthfulness of Majakura and his political sagacity.

He praised the  dedication of the member  to serving his constituency, emphasizing the importance of politics as a means of providing effective service to the people. 

The governor expressed his satisfaction with Majakura's commitment and the notable politicians who accompanied him, indicating widespread acceptance within credible political circles.

In his address,  Hon. Lawan Musa Majakura explained that his decision to leave the PDP for the APC was motivated by the commendable efforts of Mr Buni’s administration in bringing transformative infrastructure to his constituency. He specifically highlighted the construction of roads, housing estates, and medical facilities that have positively impacted local communities.

His words: "I want to join hands with you and support you in serving my constituency to improve the lives of my people. I am convinced that we can achieve more if I am on the same page with you in the APC; it will benefit the people of my constituency better," Majakura affirmed.

Gov Buni in a warm handshake with Hon. Majakura after his defection to APC

The Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Chiroma Buba Mashio, lauded Majakura's outstanding commitment to representing the interests of his constituents. 

According to him, “this  defection is as an advantage to the APC and the government of Yobe State. I am  optimistic  about the positive impact Majakura's move would have on the party and the state's governance landscape”.

IMPACTONLINENIGERIA   reported that Mr. Majakura, a 28 year old former volunteer primary school teacher defeated the former Speaker of the State House of Assembly Mohammed Mirwa in the March 18 Governorship and State House of Assembly election to represented Nguru II Constituency at the State House of Assembly on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party(PDP).

Though the former Speaker had challenged the victory of Mr. Majakura at the tribunal, he could not get his prayers as the tribunal ruled against his petition declaring Majakura as being validly elected and returned as member of Nguru II constituency.

Gov. Buni addressing supporters

With the defection of Majakura to the APC, onely Sadiq Yahaya representing Bade Central StateConstituency is now left in the opposition PDP out of the 23 members in the House.

The defection of the lone PDP member to the APC not only underlines the shifting political dynamics in Yobe but also reflects a growing  characteristics of Yobe State as a one party state.

As Yobe State continues on its trajectory of progress, political realignments are likely to shape the future landscape of the state's political sphere.

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