Yobe Launches Food Palliative Distribution in Zone B Amidst tight security

Some of the physically challenged people with their food at the distribution centre in Potiskum

 By JOE Hemba

 In an effort to provide relief from the hardship caused by the subsidy removal in the country on it citizenry, the Yobe State Government through Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), has started a widespread distribution of essential food palliatives in the southern region of the state. 

The inauguration of this impactful exercise today place in Potiskum, the administrative headquarters of the Zone B senatorial district. 

Thousands of eager residents converged at the Yobe Floor Mills complex, the designated venue for the distribution, under the vigilant watch of a robust security presence. The substantial security measures were put in place to prevent any potential disruptions by youths and to safeguard against unauthorized carting away of the food items meant for distribution for beneficiaries. 

 Dr. Mohammed Goje, the Executive Secretary of YOSEMA, personally oversaw the proceedings of the distribution. 

He underscored the state government's unwavering dedication to extending the reach of these food palliatives to households throughout Yobe. 

 Dr. Goje reiterated that each household would benefit from a substantial food basket, weighing 20 kilograms, designed to sustain them for a span of up to two weeks. This measure aims to provide immediate sustenance for families and facilitate their ability to actively engage in agricultural activities in the farming season. 

 Dr. Goje articulated that the distribution strategy is geared predominantly towards prioritizing the elderly, widows, orphans, and those who find themselves in the most vulnerable circumstances. 

“This approach aligns seamlessly with the empathetic vision of Governor Mai Mala Buni, as he seeks to ease the hardships faced by the most marginalized segments of the population,” Dr. Goje said. 

Beneficiaries moving with their food

He elaborated, "The ongoing food palliative distribution within Yobe State is a manifestation of the state's proactive commitment. Yobe embarked on this mission right from the inception of the removal of subsidies. Furthermore, we have already started receiving shipments of federal government palliatives, indicative of our resolute intention to extend our reach to encompass even more communities and households within the state." 

 In a heartwarming side of the distribution event, over 300 physically challenged  individuals in Potiskum were also direct beneficiaries of this noble initiative. Alhaji Umar Sanda, the chairman of the local Association for the physically challenged  expressed profound gratitude to the government for extending its support to their often-overlooked segment of society. 

Among the beneficiaries, emotions were high, and accolades flowed freely for Governor Mai Mala Buni for his empathetic and proactive approach to governance. 

 “As each food basket finds its way to a household, it carries with it not just sustenance but also the reassurance that, in Yobe, the needs of the people remain at the forefront of the administration of Gov. Mai Mala Buni,” Dr. Goje said.

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Yobe State Swears in New Commissioners Amidst Mourning for Elder Statesman Lawan

Gov. Buni watches as his new cabinet takes oath of office

From JOE Hemba

Amidst a bittersweet atmosphere, Yobe State celebrated the inauguration of its newly appointed Commissioners into office, even as the state mourned the passing of an esteemed elder statesman and advocate of Politics Without Bitterness, Alhaji Musa Lawan, fondly known as the Madakin Tikau.

The day was marked by a mix of solemnity and optimism as the state bid farewell to a remarkable figure while ushering in a new chapter of governance.

Alhaji Musa Lawan, a grassroots politician known for his commitment to principled politics, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of harmony and integrity. His enduring advocacy for Politics Without Bitterness served as a guiding light for many. As the state grieves his loss, prayers were extended for his soul's peace and acceptance into Aljannatur Firdaus.

In the same breath, the state's focus turned to its newly appointed Commissioners who were officially sworn into office.

Governor Mai Mala Buni, in his address, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Commissioners on their appointments and emphasized the weight of responsibility that awaited them. He emphasized their role in making critical decisions for the people of the state and urged their dedication to implementing people-centric policies and programs.

The Governor also expressed gratitude towards the Yobe State House of Assembly for their diligent screening process, highlighting the seamless collaboration between the executive and legislative branches. This teamwork, he noted, “was a testament to the collective pursuit of the state's best interests”.

Addressing the Commissioners, the Governor Buni  outlined the qualities expected of them—loyalty, diligence, good governance, sacrifice, and productive leadership. He cautioned against traits such as disloyalty, indolence, selfishness, and laziness, stressing the importance of “prudent and transparent execution of their duties”.

As the state embarked on its second and final term, the Governor's vision was clear: to meet set targets and fulfill the aspirations of the people while adhering to strict financial responsibility. He underscored the need for due process, transparency, and confidentiality in handling classified information and official matters.

Furthermore, the Governor reminded the Commissioners of the state's limited resources, urging them to avoid waste and diversion.

He emphasised  the importance of teamwork as well as encouraged them to collaborate closely with their colleagues and other government officials to ensure the collective success of projects aimed at improving the lives of the citizens.

The  Governor reiterated the people's trust in their leadership and the need to exceed their expectations. He highlighted the temporary nature of their positions and their responsibility to inspect ongoing projects personally, maintaining accountability and justifying expenditures to ensure value for money.

Below is the list of the commissioners and their portfolio:

1. Aji Yerima Bularafa - Min of Wealth creation, employment & empowerment.

2. Ibrahim Jajere - Min of Local Government,

3. Dr. Lawan Gana - Min of Health,

4. Hon. Barma Shettima - Min of Youth & Sport,

5. Ali Mustapha Goniri - Min of Agriculture,

6. AbdullahI Bego - Min of Information,

7. Kaigama Umar - Min of Commerce,

8. Dr. Sani Idriss - Basic and Secondary Education,

9. Hon. Gagiyo - Min of Budget,

10. Ya Jalo Badama - Min of Women Affairs,

11. Mohammed Abacha - Min of Finance,

12. Prof. Bello Kawuwa - Min of Higher Education,

13.Engr. Wakil  Duddaye - Min of Works,

14. Saleh Samanja - Justice,

15. Hajiya Mairo Amshi - Humanitarian Affairs

16.Arc.  Ahmed Buba Kyari - Housing,

17. Engr. Ahmed - Min of Water Resources

18. Yusuf Umar Potiskum - Religious Affairs,

19. Sidi Yakubu - Environment,

20. Musa Mustapha - Min of Transportation and Energy

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Yobe Assembly Commences First Batch Screening of Commissioner Nominees

Yobe Speaker, Chiroma Buba Mashio

 From JOE Hemba

Yobe State House of Assembly convened today in the hallowed chambers of the legislative body to initiate the comprehensive screening process of 20 commissioner nominees.

 The screening exercise marks a significant step towards ensuring effective governance and service delivery in the state. The proceedings were presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio.

 IMPACTONLINENIGERIA who witnessed exercise saw the nominees subjected to rigorous questioning, aimed at assessing their individual areas of expertise and gauging how their diverse skill sets could contribute to the advancement of Governor Mai Mala Buni's second term in office. 

 The legislators posed incisive questions and comments covering a range of topics relevant to the nominees' respective portfolios, encompassing fields such as education, health, infrastructure, agriculture, and economic development. Governor Buni's vision for his second term in office revolves around accelerating growth and development across Yobe State. As such, the nominee screening process is pivotal in selecting individuals who possess the knowledge, dedication, and capability to aid in realizing this vision. 

The Assembly members displayed their commitment to transparency and accountability by rigorously examining each nominee's qualifications and potential contributions. 

Some of the commissioners awaiting screening at the State House of Assembly 

 The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio, emphasized the importance of this exercise in ensuring that the executive arm of government is equipped with a team of commissioners who can effectively translate policies into tangible outcomes for the people of Yobe State. 

He highlighted the Assembly's determination to collaborate harmoniously with the executive in order to drive progress and prosperity. 

 This event comes in the wake of recent developments where Governor Mai Mala Buni was alleged to have submitted an empty list of commissioner nominees to the House of Assembly in May of this year.

 The allegations sparked a wave of criticism and speculation about the efficiency and commitment of the executive in fulfilling its mandate to govern effectively. 

The speaker had earlier denied the allegations. 

The commencement of the commissioner nominee screening process today is a clear demonstration of the Assembly’s dedication to the governance of Yobe State. 

As the Assembly proceeds with the screening process over the coming days, the people of Yobe State eagerly await the selection of a team that will work collectively to usher in a new era of progress and prosperity for the state. 

 The Legislators’ meticulous approach to evaluating each nominee's potential to add value to Governor Buni's second term signifies a determined effort to build a capable and effective government that will fulfill the aspirations of the citizens.

Eight out of the twenty nominees were screened today by the Assembly.

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Yobe State Government Begins Palliative Distribution to Alleviate Hardship caused by Subsidy Removal

Food Palliatives of Yobe State Government lunched on Thursday in Damaturu

From JOE Hemba

  In a proactive move to address the challenges posed by prevailing economic conditions, the Yobe State Government, through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has officially launched the distribution of essential food palliatives to vulnerable groups across the state. The distribution aims to provide relief and support to those most impacted by the ongoing economic uncertainties caused by the fuel subsidy removal in the country.

 SEMA Takes the Lead: 

 Under the leadership of the State Emergency Management Agency, the distribution of food palliatives has been set in motion, signaling the government's commitment to the welfare of its citizens. 

According to Mohammed Goje, the Executive Secretary of SEMA, this initiative is designed to alleviate the burden faced by vulnerable populations within the state.

 Dr. Goje stated, "We are embarking on a mission to extend a helping hand to those who need it the most. The distribution of food palliatives is a crucial step in ensuring that the well-being of our citizens remains a priority, particularly during these trying times." 

 Impact on Households: 

 This initiative is projected to have a significant reach, with over 800,000 households expected to benefit from the distribution of food palliatives. The provisions are set to include essential food items that will contribute to the sustenance and nourishment of families across the state. 

 Warning Against Profiteering: 

 In a stern reminder of the purpose behind these relief efforts, the State Deputy Governor, Idi Barde Gubana, who represented Governor Mai Mala Buni at the launch event, addressed the beneficiaries directly. 

He emphasized that the distributed items are meant to alleviate suffering, not to serve as a means of profit. Deputy Governor Gubana warned against any attempts to sell the provided food items for personal gain.

 

"Let it be clear that the food palliatives are intended to ease the challenges faced by our citizens. We advise all beneficiaries not to engage in selling these items," Deputy Governor Gubana cautioned. 

He further warned that anyone caught engaging in such activities would face legal consequences, as authorities would not tolerate actions that undermine the well-being of fellow citizens. 

A Gesture of Support: 

The Yobe State Government's initiative to distribute food palliatives to vulnerable households stands as a testament to its commitment to the welfare and support of its citizens. 

This comprehensive effort reflects a dedication to tackling the multifaceted challenges brought about by economic uncertainties. As the distribution process unfolds, the government's message remains clear: compassion, support, and unity will guide Yobe State through these challenging times, with a united front to ensure that no one is left behind.

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Yobe State House of Assembly Speaker Denies receiving Blank List of Commissioner Nominees

Yobe Speaker, Chiroma Buba Mashio

 

 From JOE Hemba

In a surprising turn of events, the Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Buba Chiroma Mashio, has vehemently denied rumors of receiving a blank list of commissioner nominees from Governor Mai Mala Buni.

The Speaker in and exclusive interview with IMPACTONLINENIGERIA  in Damaturu on Tuesday said “it is unthinkable for people to make false speculations that we received and empty lists of commissioner nominees from the executive”.

The Speaker clarified that the first batch of names submitted to the Assembly contained some names which are sent to the Department of Secret Services(DSS) waiting clearance.

 

Amidst Rumors and Speculations:

 

Reports had circulated earlier this week suggesting that Governor Mai Mala Buni in a bid to beat the 60 days constitutional dateline to form an executive council sent in a letter to the State House House of Assembly which was supposed to be a comprehensive list of commissioner nominees but allegations filtered in that the letter was just a gimmick to mislead the people as it was alleged to be blank with no names.

IMPACTONLINENIGERIA  gathered that another  rumor that sparked discussions among politicians, citizens, and the media was the concerns that  the Speaker at their last emergency plenary sitting last Friday only announced  the receipt of the letter from the governor without reading the content thus raising more suspicions.

 

The Speaker's Bold Clarification:

 

When IMPACTONLINENIGERIA  met Mr. Mashio today at the State Assembly Complex response to the rumours, he emphatically stated, "The news of a blank list is entirely false and misleading. We received a  list of first bat of  commissioner nominees from His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni. The list encompasses individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, ready to contribute to the progress of Yobe State."

 

Awaiting Security Clearance:

 

Speaker Mashio further disclosed that the Assembly was currently in the process of vetting the first batch of commissioner nominees. However, a delay in the confirmation process was due to the Assembly's commitment to ensuring that all nominees pass through proper security clearance by the secret police.

 

"The security and welfare of our citizens are of paramount importance," asserted the Speaker. "We want to assure the people of Yobe that we are taking all necessary measures to conduct thorough background checks on each nominee before their confirmation. This is a standard procedure to guarantee the integrity of our state's leadership."

 

A Unified Vision for Progress:

 

The Speaker also expressed the Assembly's determination to maintain a collaborative working relationship with the executive arm of the government to achieve the state's developmental goals. "As representatives of the people, we remain united in our commitment to advancing Yobe State's prosperity. We will work closely with Governor Buni to ensure that only the most qualified and credible candidates are entrusted with leading various ministries," he affirmed.

 

 

As the dust settles on the rumors of a blank list of commissioner nominees, Speaker Buba Chiroma Mashio's bold and transparent clarification has provided clarity and reassurance to the citizens of Yobe State. With the Assembly's unwavering commitment to security clearance procedures, the state can look forward to a team of competent and dedicated commissioners poised to contribute to the growth and development of Yobe, fostering a brighter future for all.

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