SSA Education, Dr. Mohammed Sani Idris, Encourages Students During Inspection Visit to Secondary School NECO Examinations

Dr. Sani Idris in an examination Hall at GGSS Ngelzarma observing a practical geography map of one of the students during the inspection visit.

From JOE Hemba

In a show of support and encouragement, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Education, Dr. Mohammed Sani Idris, made  a suprise inspection visit to some  secondary schools in the state as students were in the midst of their National Examination Council(NECO) examinations and Basic Education Certificate Examination(BECE). The visit was  aimed to motivate and boost the morale of the students as they tackled their crucial exams, and to witness the efforts of the school and teachers in ensuring a conducive examination environment.

Inspiring Words of Encouragement:

During his visit, Dr. Mohammed Sani Idris addressed the students, offering inspiring words of encouragement and reassurance. He emphasized the importance of hard work, focus, and self-belief, reminding the students that success in their examinations was within their reach. The immediate past  Commissioner for Basic Education in the state who is  now a commissioner nominee  highlighted the  commitment of Gov. Mai Mala Buni's administration  to providing quality education and assured the students of the state's support in their educational journey.

Praise for Teachers and School Management:

Dr. Idris also took the opportunity to commend the efforts of the teachers and school management for their dedication to the students' academic development. He recognized their role in shaping young minds and nurturing future leaders, acknowledging that their commitment played a vital part in the overall success of the students.

Ensuring a Conducive Examination Environment:

During the inspection, Dr. Idris  also assessed the school's examination facilities and arrangements. He expressed satisfaction with the school's efforts in providing a conducive examination environment for the students. Adequate seating arrangements, proper invigilation, and the presence of necessary examination materials were observed, reflecting the school's commitment to maintaining examination integrity.

Interactive Session with Students:

After addressing the students, Dr. Mohammed Sani Idris engaged in an interactive session with them, where he answered questions and addressed any concerns they had about their examinations and their future academic pursuits. The session served as an opportunity for the students to gain valuable insights and guidance from the Commissioner, fostering a sense of connection between the government and the youth.

At Tulip International School, Yobe State

Motivating Excellence:

The SSA  Education concluded his visit by reiterating the state government's commitment to nurturing a generation of well-rounded and academically excellent students. He urged the students to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives, not just in academics, and to seize every opportunity to develop their skills and talents.

IMPACTONLINENIGERIA reports that the  inspection visit of Dr. Mohammed Sani Idris to the secondary school as students write their NECO examinations was a significant gesture of support and motivation. His encouraging words, praise for teachers, and assurance of government backing served to uplift the spirits of the students during this critical period. 

The visit also  reaffirmed the  commitment of Gov. Mai Mala Buni's administration  to providing a conducive educational environment and nurturing the next generation of leaders. As the students continue their examinations, they do so with renewed confidence and determination to achieve their academic goals.

Schools visited include; Government Girls Secondary School, Ngelzarma, Government Science Technical College Damagum and Nigerian TULIP International College, Potiskum.

Share:

Read More

Arewa Youth Petition President Tinubu Alleging Violation of North-East Development Commission Act 2017 in Board Appointments

From JOE Hemba 

 A group of Arewa Youth under the aegis of Northern Youth Right have filed a petition against President Tinubu, accusing him of violating the North-East Development Commission Establishment Act 2017. 

The petition which is sighted by IMPACTONLINENIGERIA carries a stamp of receipt from the office of the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria dated 24th July, 2023 is centered around the reconstitution and appointment of members to the governing board of the commission for the year 2023.

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) was established in 2017 with the primary objective of addressing the humanitarian and developmental challenges faced by the North-East region of Nigeria, which has been significantly affected by insurgency and other forms of insecurity. The Act governing the establishment of the NEDC outlines specific guidelines and procedures for the constitution of its governing board. 

 Northern Youth Right's Allegations:

According to the Northern Youth Right’s petition, President Tinubu in his letter to the senate on the 19th July, 2023 has failed to adhere to the provisions of the NEDC Establishment Act 2017 in the reconstitution and/or appointment of members to the commission's governing board for the year 2023. 

The petitioners alleged that the Section of the Act of the NEDC the President relied on the appointment of new members of the board does not even exist in the Act establishing the commission thus, raising concerns about transparency, fairness, and regional representation in the board. 

Part of the letter read thus: 

 “With great concern and disappointment we humbly note that the, “ section 5, sub section (b)” mentioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in this said communication, and also read by you, both does not exist in the NEDC Establishment Act 2017. It is appalling that this mighty glitch would occur in the highest echelon of the leadership of our land. 

“The reappointment of General Paul Tarfa (RTD) to the position of the Chairman of the board of the Commission is inconsistent with Section 5 and Second Schedule of the Act establishing the NEDC. Therefore, this “reappointment stands wasted and of no effect whatsoever,” it said. 

The Petition as obtained by IMPACTONLINENIGERIA  is signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the group Mr. Haruna Abdullahi Maikano and Raphael Terkua apart from the office of the President and the Vice President was also copied to the Senate President and all the 109 senators, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Office of the Chief of State to the President, all the six governors of the Northeast region, and Office of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

 Call for Transparency and Accountability/Prayers in the petition. 

 They  emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the selection process of NEDC board members. They assert that any deviation from the established guidelines undermines the commission's purpose and hampers efforts to address the pressing developmental needs of the North-East region. It therefore made the following prayers: 

1. That the distinguished Senate do declare that the letter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu herein mentioned, contained vague information and as well misrepresentation of facts of the law and regulation of the NEDC Establishment Act 2017. 

2. That the distinguished Senate do declare that any action already taken from the contents of the letter are inconsistent with relevant laws. 

3. That the distinguished senate do cease any action, or any further action, regarding the contents of Mr. President letter in mention. 

4. That, in order not to create and administrative vaccum and also in other to avoid letter legal battles and issues connected with the governing and management of the NEDC, the distinguished Senate to declare that the NEDC remains at its status quo, before the coming of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s letter which has been shown here to have no effect, whatsoever. . 

Implications and Way Forward: 

The allegations raised by Arewa Youth are of significant concern, given the critical role of the North-East Development Commission in the region's recovery and development. A thorough investigation into the alleged violations of the NEDC Establishment Act 2017 is essential to ensure fairness and the realization of the commission's objectives. The situation calls for the utmost transparency and adherence to the rule of law in all governmental appointments to key positions. Any irregularities in the appointment process must be rectified to preserve public trust and confidence in the commission's ability to effectively serve the needs of the North-East region. 

 As the matter unfolds, Nigerians, particularly stakeholders in the North-East region, will be keenly watching for a timely and just resolution to ensure the commission can fulfill its mandate and contribute to the region's progress. 

IMPACTONLINENIGERIA  recalled that former President, Mohammadu Buhari had appointed an acting governing board for the commission at the wee hours of his administration but the appointment were dissolved shortly after Mr. Tinubu took over as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Share:

Read More

WPHF, UN Women Empower Women, Girls With Rice, Cassava Milling Machines In N/ East

From Joe Hemba,  Maiduguri 

The Women Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), international non- governmental organisations ( INGOs ) have provided funding to Iwuese MCS, a cooperative operating in both Taraba and Adamawa State to equip women and girls with rice and cassava milling machines.

The gesture according to  Executive Director Iwuese Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Ritdimwa Orga during the empowerment programme, was to enable the beneficiaries to establish their milling centres and enhance their economic independence.

She said the initiative also included comprehensive technical training on operating rice and cassava milling machines, adding that participants received training on various aspects of milling machine operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring their proficiency in utilizing these machines effectively. 

Orga said in addition to technical training, the women received training in business skills development, a key component needed by the women and girls in establishing and managing their milling centres successfully. 

She said in a bid to achieve maximum community impact, the women and some men in the community were trained to become successful cassava stem (TME 419 variety) and Rice (Faro 52) seed entrepreneurs. 

" By introducing improved and resilient varieties of rice seed and cassava stems, participants will have access to crops that are more resistant to diseases, pests, and environmental challenges. This not only enhances their yeild and productivity but also ensures the sustainability and profitability of their businesses and community at large. 

" Iwuese Cooperative, known for its dedication to women's empowerment, played a crucial role in implementing this 4 week-long training program. Leveraging their expertise in improved agricultural practices and cooperative management. 

"With the establishment of sustainable income-generating activities, these centers will achieve long-term impacts that will extend well beyond their duration. The diverse range of support ensures that the women and girls can create profitable businesses in the rice and cassava value chains and impact their communities. Ultimately leading to poverty reduction and transformative change.” said Ritdimwa Orga, ED of Iwuese Multipurpose Cooperative Society. 

Susuti Wafena, representing the Rice Milling group in Mubi North and South LGA, Adamwa state and Nicollete Anthony and Mercy Aer, representing the Cassava Milling group in Jalingo and Gassol, Taraba State, all expressed their utmost gratitude to UN Women and WPHF, Iwuese Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society and all involved stakeholders, including government institutions and key persons in the local communities, for their support in enhancing their economic status. 

Share:

Read More

Gov. Buni Bag’s International Traditional Title

Yobe Gov. Mai Mala Buni left with Mr. Abdallah Ibrahim right, leader Niger Republic Peace Ambassadors after decorating Gov. Buni with the title of 'Sarkin Yakin Zaman Lafiya Nigeria/ Niger in Damaturu on Friday.

From Joe Hemba

After he was bestowed with a National Honour of "Commandeur dans l'ordre du merit du Niger" by the Government of Niger Republic for his contribution to the improved diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Niger Republic, Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni was again  today honored with a traditional title by a community from the Republic of Niger.

Gov. Buni who was decorated as the “Sarkin Yakin Zaman lafiya" for Nigeria and Niger Republic by the leader of Peace Ambassadors of Abzinawa Damagaram, Zeinder, Niger Republic  Mr. Abdullahi Ibrahim, said the title was in recognition of Gov. Buni's efforts in promotion of peace and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria and Niger communities.

His words: "We found it necessary to recognize you with this title in view of the peaceful coexistence and infrastructural development in the border communities which are also enjoyed by communities in Niger Republic. 

"Your strides in healthcare delivery, road network, economic development to your people are being enjoyed by our communities in Niger Republic" Abdallah said.

An elated Governor Buni who was turbaned with a beautiful head scarf and a traditionally woven bag and a sword pledged his commitment in  promoting peace between the two countries.

According to the Governor, "We are brothers who were divided by the colonial boundaries and that should not make us enemies.

"I will continue to encourage peaceful coexistence among our communities and countries" Gov. Buni assured.

The Niger delegation was also expressed their gladness to the hospitality enjoyed in the state since their arrival in the State capital, Damaturu.

IMPACTONLINENIGERIA recalls that Nigeria and the Republic of Niger have very strong ties with border  communities in northern Yobe like Gaidam/ Maine Sorowa engaging in free trade and even inter-marriages.

Share:

Read More

Yobe Development: Gov. Buni Makes High Level Engagement with SGF

Gov. Buni(left) with a warm handshake with SGF, George Akume

 From JOE Hemba 

 Yobe state Governor, Hon Mai Mala Buni, has embarked on a high level engagement with the Secretary to the Government of The Federation, Sen. George Akume. 

 The meeting which took place at the SGF office in Abuja penultimate week was part of Governor Buni’s strategic engagement with key Federal Government officials to attracting more Federal presence in the State. 

 According to a statement signed by the governor’s spokesman, Mamman Mohammed and made available to IMPACTONLINENIGERIA, Gov. Buni was particularly interested on how the federal government will complete the ongoing projects in the state like the Damaturu Regional Water Project and the Fika Water Project as well as some federal electricity projects. 

 The statement also revealed that Gov. Buni briefed the SGF on some of the devastating impact of last year’s flooding in the state which washed away some communities and some federal highways with bridges. 

 The Secretary to the Federal government, Sen. George Akume assured Governor Buni that the federal government will look into these projects to improve the lives of the people. 

 He also assured the commitment of the Tinubu administration of working on the same page for the benefit of the people of the state. 

 The Statement also announced that Governor Buni met with private investors that intend to establish an agro-allied industries in the state. 

 Governor Buni was quoted as saying that, “Yobe state government would establish Industrial village to be provided with facilities to woo investors to the State”.

Share:

Read More