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Kaduna: Eye Opener Foundation Hosts Historic Graduation For People With Disabilities, Launches 20 Poems On SUD
Kaduna witnessed a momentous occasion as the Eye Opener Youth and Women Foundation hosted the first-ever graduation ceremony for the Training of Trainers (ToT) program on Substance Use Disorder (SUD) for People With Physical Disabilities (PWPDs) in Nigeria. This remarkable achievement by the Foundation, a renowned Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and multiple recipient of the WHO World No Tobacco Award (WNT) in the Africa region, took place in Kaduna on Wednesday.
The event, organized by the Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club of the Eye Opener Youth and Women Foundation, also featured the launch of 20 new poems dedicated to SUD treatment and recovery professionals. These poems added value to an existing collection of 80 prevention poems.
The ceremony commenced with the Nigerian national anthem and was skillfully anchored by Malam Lawal Magaji, the Kaduna State Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) Hausa Program Coordinator.
During the occasion, Dr. Omolara Ibrahim, Head of Treatment Services at the Kaduna State Bureau for Substance Abuse (KADBUSA), represented the Hon. Commissioner for Health and Director General of KADBUSA. Dr. Ibrahim expressed appreciation for the Foundation’s efforts and conveyed a commitment to future collaboration on Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) initiatives.
Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed, Deputy State Commander Operations, represented the NDLEA Kaduna State Commander. He shed light on the misuse of individuals with physical disabilities by drug traffickers and urged the graduands to utilize their newly acquired knowledge to stay drug-free. He also encouraged them to serve as prevention ambassadors.
Hajiya Rakiya A. Unar, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board, represented the Hon. Commissioner for Women and Humanitarian Affairs. She expressed satisfaction with the students’ presentations and promised to ensure that the graduands make good use of their training. Hajiya Unar also urged the students to abstain from drugs and become prevention ambassadors in their respective local governments.
Alhaji Rilwan Mohammed Abdullahi, National President of the Association of Physically Challenged People of Nigeria, commended the initiative and praised the groundbreaking nature of the program. He pledged to expand its scope nationwide.
Mrs. Gormwa Gotus, the 2024 WHO WNT Award Winner in the Africa region and a prevention educator for PWPDs in Kaduna State, welcomed the dignitaries and guests. She emphasized the training’s goal of helping individuals with physical disabilities avoid smoking and drug abuse. Mrs. Gotus highlighted that the vocational training provided by the Eye Opener Foundation enables even those unable to read or write to understand the importance of abstinence.
Margaret Kwa’ada Julius, CEO and Founder of “The Eye Opener Tobacco and Substance Abstinence Club,” and an alumnus of Ecolink Institute of Well-Being India: 2024 global leadership award winner, spoke about the club’s holistic approach to combating drug misuse and smoking addiction. She emphasized that the club aims to serve all communities and groups without discrimination. The training is conducted in languages best understood by the beneficiaries. Mrs. Julius mentioned that the Foundation is hopeful for future financial support or grants.
Miss Vanessa Adeshola Julius, President of the Tobacco Substance Abstinence Club for Biblical Approach on Children and Teenager SUD Prevention in Nigeria, launched the 20 new poems for those under SUD treatment and recovery. She recited several selections, captivating the audience with her powerful delivery.
The representative of the Commandant of the Kaduna Vigilante Service (KADVIS) urged the graduates to utilize their training effectively and report any attempts to involve them in drug-related activities.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of graduation certificates and free jackets to the 16 graduating students. These students also made impactful presentations on the effects of drug abuse and smoking. The graduands are: Dalhatu Yahaya, Ridwan U. Iliyasu, Usman Abdullahi, Sagir Yasha’u, Abdulkarim Adamu, Buhari Salisu, Ramatu Alhassan, Firdausi Aliyu, Ruth Falayi, Patience Markus, Rakiya Daniel, Mohammed Abubakar, Auwal Ibrahim, Rabiu Sani, Addaillu Abubakar, and Bala Aminu Ibrahim.
The event was graced by other distinguished guests, including Mrs. Hajara Silas Bala, HOD Training and Empowerment, Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board; Mrs. Esther Yohanna, Center Manager, Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board Kaduna South Center; Hajiya Zainab Tanko, Social Welfare Officer, Kaduna State Disability Affairs Board Kaduna South Center; Mai Angu
A group of lawyers under the banner of the Guardian of Democracy and Rule of Law staged a massive protest at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja on Monday, demanding a judicial inquiry into the tenure of Mele Kolo Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).
The protesters, led by Barrister Benjamin Theophilus, submitted a petition alleging widespread corruption, tax evasion, abuse of office, and misappropriation of public funds during Kyari’s leadership.
The petition highlighted several contentious issues, including inflated costs of refinery rehabilitation contracts, fraudulent crude oil allocations, mismanagement of the AKK Gas Pipeline Project, fuel subsidy fraud, and questionable crude-backed loans.
According to the petition, NNPCL under Kyari spent over $4 billion on rehabilitating the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries, far exceeding an initial private-sector proposal of $1 billion for all three facilities.
“Kyari is alleged to have collaborated with consultants and contractors to conceal the actual cost of contracts and evade taxes,” the petition stated, noting that the refineries remain inefficient despite the expenditure.
The lawyers also accused Kyari of overseeing the diversion of crude oil allocations under the pretext of “pipeline security” at a rate of 80,000 barrels per day, with no transparent accountability mechanisms.
The $5 billion AKK Gas Pipeline Project was similarly flagged for irregularities in contract awards and execution, with little progress despite significant funding.
Further allegations include fuel subsidy fraud, with NNPCL reportedly increasing petroleum imports in 2020 during a global decline in fuel consumption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The petition also criticised crude-backed loans totalling $21.565 billion since 2019, which it claimed disadvantaged Nigeria by ceding trading profits to international traders.
The protesters called for a judicial commission to investigate Kyari’s tenure, probe payments to refinery contractors, and examine past audit failures.
They also urged the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to investigate suspected tax evasion and fraudulent declarations, while advocating for the recovery of any misappropriated public funds.
The Federal Ministry of Finance has yet to respond to the petition, and NNPCL officials were unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.
BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
With preparation towards 2020-2030 Agenda popularly known as decade of action at hand, the concept of transmitting SDGs program through short film challenges cannot be overemphasized.
Therefore, the determination of Sustainable Development Goals SDGs under the leadership of Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire and the United Nations UN to move beyond infrastructural, socio-economic and political awareness as well as empowerment by deploying the global program to achieving its stated objectives.
The inculcation of short films and other related art work towards achieving the 17 SDGs goals, starting from first to second and now the third edition of film challenges launched was aimed at achieving SDGs goals.
Since cinematography and film related activities attracts more in the area of viewing and concentration, the collaboration between SDGs, UN and other independent bodies towards achieving the desired results is not out of place.
From 73 countries and entries in 2023 to 2,250 and 119 countries in 2024, was a remarkable improvement to synergise with notable film makers to move forward the impact of SDGs on the society.
The initiatives and innovation sponsored by the leadership under SSAP -SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire will not only lead to realizing the full mission and vision of the 2020-2030 Agenda , but achieving the global standards.
Aside film challenge and inculcation of film related activities into achieving the global program, the SDGs in Nigeria also in collaboration with the UN and other bodies will also be rolling out other activities like training,capacity building, empowerment among many other encouraging activities, that will mitigate and drive towards achieving the global standards for the decade of action Agenda.
While lending her voice and supports towards the new initiatives and programs, SSAP -SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope- Adefulire opined
“on her part, Orelope-Adefulire said “The SDG Film Challenge is an initiative designed to mobilise filmmakers in this decade of action to accelerate the achievement of the SDG.”
“She invited creators to produce impactful short films that highlight development challenges and offer solutions and direct action on critical issues such as poverty, illiteracy, gender equality, climate change, and social justice.”
“She added: “It is also an opportunity to provide information and to generate hope through our many narratives.”
“We challenge them to educate, to provoke conversations and direct action towards achieving more that reduces the violence faced and threatens our planet. The success of this initiative over the past two editions is a testament to the power of partnership and creativity.”
“She also stressed that “This year we are introducing a new strategy including training and capacity-building programmes for all the hosting and training sessions with filmmakers who will be stationed in this regard for their future training.”
“With today’s launch, the online quarter is officially open for filmmakers to submit short films, multiple films, addressing selected issues.”
“She revealed that three finalists will be shortlisted, from the entries with winners receiving prizes, global excursions, and additional opportunities.”
In his contributions,
“The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, has described Nigeria as a storytelling powerhouse, urging filmmakers to channel their creative force toward amplifying awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
“The film challenge, which is a collaboration with the United Nations, aimed at mobilising filmmakers to use films to mobilise the nation towards achieving the SDGs.”
“The UN has set 2030 to achieve the SDGs, which has 17 goals aimed at improving standards of living across the globe.”
“Speaking at the launch, Fall said: “Nigeria is a storytelling powerhouse. Our Nollywood industry, which is among the largest film industries in the world, reaches millions across Africa and beyond. By channelling this creative force toward the SDGs, we are doing more than amplifying awareness.”
“We are empowering young Nigerians to take ownership of the development narrative: to spotlight issues like gender inequality, climate change, and poverty, and to present solutions through the lens of sustainability.”
“The UN in Nigeria stands firmly behind this mission. This year’s challenge — led by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, the UN Information Centre, and Fresh NEWS builds on the remarkable momentum of past editions.”
“From 73 entries in 2023 to an astonishing 2,250 entries from 119 countries last year, the message is clear: young people are not waiting on the sidelines. They are ready to create, lead, and transform their world.”
“Globally, the UN Secretary-General has underscored the vital role of youth and digital innovation in driving the 2030 Agenda forward. The SDGs Film Challenge embodies this vision. It aligns with Chapter IV of the Pact for the Future, recognizing youth and future generations as key architects of sustainable development.
“To all filmmakers, producers, and actors across Nigeria: this is your moment. Let your cameras roll.
“Let your stories stir our collective conscience. Whether your lens captures the struggle of a girl fighting for her education or the resilience of communities battling environmental degradation — your voice matters.”
“Let’s make 2025 a year where stories drive change, where creativity fuels progress, and where Nigeria leads the charge in storytelling for sustainable development.
The maiden event launched by Nigeria’s SDGs was a cornerstone towards the achievements of other stated objectives under The Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire on Wednesday in Abuja, with the launch of the 3rd Edition of the SDGs film Challenge.
Participants are expected to also benefit from the exchange of programme and mentoring initiatives.
Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.
BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
The quest to turn the nations city into a new look not minding the city centre and area council is becoming a reality going by the efforts of the Minister of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike to circulate infrastructural development among many others to ensure all areas surrounding the FCT are developed to modern and modest standards.
This included the six area councils of Gwagwalada, Kwali , Abaji , AMAC, Kuje and Bwari which included so many villages and hamlet yearning to be open up or desiring development in all areas.
On assumption of duty, the new Minister concentrated on the nations city that had suffered many decades of neglects, that even the paints on the bridges was eagerly looking for repairs, having achieved much through completion of abandoned roads linking the area councils and Nasssarawa, Kaduna and part of Kogi state, particularly his concentration on the reconstruction, rehabilitation of township roads from the three arms zones, to Maitama district, Asokoro district, Apo district, Guzape district, Wuye district, Katampe district among many other adjoining districts created as a result of the expansion of the city centre , including building of bridges , and diversions , the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike migrated to area councils were ordinarily one or two roads are always constructed on annual basis to open up both main and rural roads to attract more development.
The desire for rural urban regeneration through physical, Infrastructural, roads , hospital, building of standard markets, among other laudable programs, Wike has completed many projects with others ongoing which included Gwagwalada township roads, Kwali township roads, Kuje township roads, Abaji township roads, Bwari township roads, with greater heights at AMAC including the adjoining ones to make the areas accessible, motorable and habitable commensurate to the city center.
During the Inspection of the ongoing construction of Kabusa-Ketti and Kabusa-Takusara roads the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The contractors assured that the two roads will be ready for commissioning next month.
The road projects were flagged off on December 4 and 5, 2024.
“While in Giri , Gwagwalada Area Council, the Minister promised to open up the area to ensure not only free movement, but concentration of development projects , and presence of other developments that will equate was was obtainable in the city centre to discourage frequent movements from the area councils to city centre.”
“At the city centre, during the roads inspection…
“One of the projects inspected is the ongoing construction of the left-wing service lane of the Outer Southern Expressway to Wassa Junction.”
“Others are the ongoing construction of interchange to connect Wole Soyinka way with Murtala Mohammed Expressway and the extension for Obafemi Awolowo Way (N5), from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III.”
“The minister expressed confidence that the projects were among those expected to be inaugurated to celebrate Tinubu’s second anniversary.”
“Wike said: “Indeed, President Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ is working and the people are happy.”
“We were at Wassa Junction, that’s on the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) leading to Wassa Junction.”
“It is one of the roads we believe, by the grace of God, will be inaugurated by Mr President to celebrate his second year in office.”
“We also went to the Northern Parkway interchange, where Gilmore is working, and they reassured us that by the grace of God, that interchange will also be inaugurated in May.”
“Generally, we are happy with the quality of work by all the contractors. We, on our own part, are doing everything possible to keep to our own obligation by ensuring prompt payments.”
“Wike explained that the N5 road project was being executed in two phases, adding that the first phase would also be inaugurated in May.”
“Barrister Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) said the ongoing project inspection across the territory is keeping contractors on their toes.
“Wike stated this in Abuja on Wednesday, after he inspected the ongoing construction of a three-kilometre road network in Giri District and the 16-kilometre Idu-Dei Dei Road on the Inner Northern Expressway.”
“Other projects inspected included the constriction of road network in Dakibiyu District and the ongoing construction of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal in the area. ”
“The minister said that inspection of the project sites was crucial to ensuring that contractors deliver projects according to expected quality and timeline.”
“As part of the routine inspection, we will always go round and see whether the contractors are doing what they are supposed to do, and we are happy with what they are doing
“We cannot sit in the offices and assume that the projects are going on well, no, part of our job is to go and see for ourselves and to look at the quality of job.
“If you don’t go out, you may be embarrassed on the day of inauguration and by that time, it will be too late.
“So, inspection is part of the assignment to ensure that the job is not only done but done very very well,” he said.
“Wike added that the FCTA was equally fulfilling its obligation to the contractors by ensuring prompt payment.”
While in Mabushi, he inspected one of the three Bus Terminals…
“This is one of the three Bus and Taxi Terminals being built in Abuja.
This is in Mabushi and it is taking shape already.”
“The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, was at the site to see things for himself.”
” The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, at the Apo – Wasa road, one of the road projects earmarked for commissioning as part of the second year anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration. ”
“Apo – Wasa road links Apo – Karshi road from Nyanya.
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, at the Apo – Wassa road and the Bridges linking Kubwa Road with Jahi and Life Camp roads today, to have an on-the-spot assessment of the ongoing projects.
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, inspecting the ongoing construction of Life Camp to Karmo road, Maitama to Gishiri bridge and road as well as rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre, Abuja, today.”
“The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, inspection of the ongoing construction of Life Camp to Karmo road, Maitama to Gishiri bridge and road as well as rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre, Abuja, “.
He promised to sustain the development across the six area councils of FCT, hence the Inauguration of the rail service, provision of shuttle buses, security and solar street lights to ensure seamless interconnectivity between the nation’s city and area councils.
Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.