News
Societal dev’t hinges on rural economy – Commissioner
The Commissioner of the Kaduna State Planning and Budget Commission (PBC), Mr Mukthar Ahmed, says development in any society is hinged on the rural economy.
Ahmed said this while speaking to newsmen at the sideline of the 4th Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) Policy Dialogue on Wednesday in Kaduna.
He pointed out that the rural economy in Kaduna state was driven by agriculture, adding, ”this dialogue aligns with item five of Gov. Uba Sani’s ‘SUSTAIN Agenda’, which is agricultural and rural development.”
Ahmed that over the years, the government had spent hugely in trying to develop agriculture in the state but to no avail, saying, ”that is why the present administration came up with better initiatives.”
He said the event, which brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including policymakers, academics, civil society, the private sector, media, and students, was to discuss critical economic issues facing the recent times.
Ahmed said, “It’s a platform for knowledge sharing, exploring best policy options for the government, and receiving valuable feedback from all participants.
“Through open discussions, we can all learn from each other and work towards a more prosperous future.
“The Policy Dialogue will be conducted regularly and will focus on critical economic and social challenges facing the state/country.
”Participants will engage in a review of relevant publications, including those from the EIU and the government.
“Open discussions will explore policy options and solutions, fostering collaboration between policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.”
He said the reports and findings from the dialogue would be shared with the government, where it aims to generate constructive criticism and valuable insights to inform future policy decisions.
Also, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Murtala Dabo, said agriculture contributes about 43 per cent of the state’s GDP.
He said it was critical to engage in ways that would improve agriculture in the state for its prosperity and the wealth of farmers.
Dabo said the ministry was doing a lot in supporting farmers across the states, while restarting their commitment to the cause.
Earlier, the Deputy Governor of the state, Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe, said through the discussion, they aimed to identify actionable strategies for the government to achieve swift progress towards its vision for a prosperous populace.
She added that insights from the dialogue would also provide valuable information for the EIU’s analysis of current economic trends in Nigeria.
“We anticipate that the dialogue’s report will equip policymakers with the necessary knowledge to formulate the most effective policies for the state,”she said.
Mr Bashir Ladan, the Director, Monitoring and Evaluation Department of the commission, said the EIU was a research-driven unit dedicated to strengthening policy making, service delivery, and good governance.
Ladan, who doubles as the EIU Head, said they achieve their mandate by developing and monitoring leading economic and fiscal indicators.
Similarly, they advise the government on robust and adaptable economic policies that could withstand economic challenges and navigate desirable changes.
He stated that the unit’s research reports have gone beyond informing Kaduna State policy.
“Our insightful analyses have shaped economic discussions at the National Economic Council, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, and even reached the President’s Office.
”This demonstrates the national significance of the EIU’s work,”Ladan said.
Speaking further, the unit head said the policy dialogue focused on agriculture and rural economic development, two critical pillars of the government’s ‘SUSTAIN Agenda’.
He stressed that the dialogue was a prime example of the government’s commitment to open governance by fostering citizen engagement, the seventh pillar of SUSTAIN manifesto.
Ladan said, “Insights from this dialogue will also provide valuable information for our analysis of current economic trends in Nigeria.
”We anticipate that the dialogue’s report will equip policymakers with the necessary knowledge to formulate the most effective policies for the state.” (NAN)
… Raises concern over polygamy negative impact
… Says some men has over 50 children, can’t take care of them
By Abubakar Yunusa
The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, has advised men facing financial difficulties to limit themselves to one wife in order to better provide for and nurture responsible families.
He expressed concern over the negative impact of polygamy, noting that many family leaders are failing to fulfil their obligations.
During his address at the conclusion of the 30th annual Ramadan lecture of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), the Emir emphasised that while Islam permits men to marry more than one woman, this right does not necessarily mean that every man is financially capable of supporting multiple families.
He shared an example from his palace, where 192 families reside, with some men having more than 50 children. “How can someone adequately care for such a large number of dependents?” he questioned.
The Emir also called for changes in the Islamiyya education system to better incorporate teachings on the rights of girls. He believes this shift could lead to more progressive communities.
Furthermore, he criticised the judiciary for exacerbating societal issues, pointing to the case of a young woman sentenced to two years in prison over a small debt of N6,000. “When I visited the prison, I had only N200,000, yet I was able to secure the release of eight people,” he recounted.
The Emir noted that the palace frequently relies on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods to address challenges in areas such as marriage, inheritance, and land disputes, which he described as major sources of family strife.
In her remarks, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, called on the Ulama to encourage men to take greater responsibility in their homes.
She emphasised that many responsibilities have shifted to women, and it’s time for men to step up.
Meanwhile, Hajiya Nafisa Isah, the Amirah of FOMWAN Kaduna State, announced that the organisation is working on establishing a fully operational skills acquisition centre to empower both women and youth.
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
Residents of Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency have pledged their unwavering support for their representative, Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock, beyond 2027, citing his credible performance and commitment to the development of the constituency.
Speaking at a gathering of ward executives, stakeholders, community leaders, and youth groups at Mal. Agwai Gidan Mana Town Hall in Kachia on Tuesday, constituents praised Hon. Zock’s legislative achievements, infrastructure projects, and empowerment initiatives, which they say have significantly improved their lives.
Earlier, Hon. Zock hosted all ward executives of his constituency at the same venue, where a ₦30 million Ramadan and Lent palliative was distributed.
The APC Chairman, Kagarko LGA, Hon. Christopher Mailafia and ALGON CHairmen of both Kagarko and Kachia LGAs respectively, highlighted the lawmaker’s contributions to infrastructure, including improved road networks, better healthcare facilities, and educational support for students.
Similarly, Chairman APC Zone 3, Hon. Shehu Tafa, commended his efforts in job creation and youth empowerment, emphasizing that his programs have provided meaningful opportunities for young people.
“We have seen unprecedented development under Hon. Zock’s leadership, and we believe he deserves to continue beyond 2027 to complete the good work he has started,” said [Insert Name], a resident of Kachia.
Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock, who is currently serving his second term in the House of Representatives, has yet to make an official statement regarding his political future. However, his growing support base suggests that many constituents are eager to see him extend his tenure beyond 2027. Political observers note that if he decides to contest again, he is likely to enjoy strong grassroots backing due to his developmental strides.
In his remarks, Hon. Zock reiterated his commitment to ensuring that party executives and constituents benefit from the ruling party.
“I understand your role in the party’s success, and I also understand that you are often under-rewarded,” he stated.
As part of his support for party executives, he announced a monthly stipend initiative, providing ₦10,000 for each ward executive and ₦20,000 for each local government executive. He further revealed that a committee has been inaugurated to oversee account openings and data collection to ensure a smooth commencement of the program next month.
Additionally, Hon. Zock assured constituents of continued support in agriculture, promising fertilizer distribution and other resources to enhance farming activities.
He acknowledged that the progress seen in the constituency was made possible through the support of key political figures, including Hon. Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Kaduna State Governor Sen. Uba Sani, and President Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Therefore, I urge you all to give your maximum support to the APC at all levels to ensure more meaningful development and dividends of democracy,” he emphasized.
As a gesture of appreciation for party loyalty, Hon. Zock announced car gifts worth ₦7 million each for his former ward councillor and the local government party secretaries of Kachia and Kagarko LGAs. This follows last year’s distribution of car gifts to the two local government chairmen and other party stakeholders.
End..
By Amos Tauna, Kaduna
A group, the Caleb Danladi Foundation has donated essential food commodities to the Muslim community in Kwoi, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, to support them during Ramadan fast.
The gesture was warmly received on behalf of the beneficiaries by religious and community leaders, underscores the foundation’s commitment to unity and compassion, particularly in times of spiritual reflection.
It’s Founder, Captain Caleb Danladi Bako, while presenting the items stressed the need for solidarity and kindness, expressing hope that the donation would ease the burden on fasting families.
Captain Bako, urged them to uphold the virtues of the holy month, emphasizing the importance of unity, compassion, and love, which he noted strengthens communal bond.
Religious leaders, including the Chief Imam of Kwoi Central Mosque and the Chairman of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) in Jaba LGA, praised the foundation’s unwavering support and urged more individuals to embrace acts of goodwill.
Notable stakeholders in the community, Mr. David Tuk and Mr. Monday Gyubok, lauded the philanthropic initiative and encouraged others to emulate such kindness.
They stressed the need for continued support to vulnerable groups within the community, particularly during times of religious observance.
The event also carried an emotional tone as community leaders extended condolences to Captain Danladi over the recent passing of his father, praying for strength for his family to bear the irreparable loss.
With a track record of humanitarian efforts spanning education, youth empowerment, and community development, the Caleb Danladi Foundation continues to strengthen social bonds through acts of generosity and interfaith harmony.