News
We owe success of 10th Reps to Abbas leadership style – Deputy Spokesman
The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese has attributed the numerous achievements of the parliament to the exceptional leadership style of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.
In a media chat on the first anniversary of the House, Agbese praised Abbas’ visionary leadership, which has enabled the Green Chamber to achieve landmark legislative feats.
The Deputy Spokesman highlighted Abbas’ efforts to promote unity and inclusivity among lawmakers, stating that “the House has become a beacon of hope for Nigerians, and a symbol of what can be achieved through collective effort and dedication.”
He also praised the Speaker’s ability to engage with stakeholders, including civil society organizations, the private sector, and the executive arm of government.
“His leadership style is a testament to the power of collaborative leadership, and we are proud to be part of his team,” Agbese said.
“He has promoted gender equality, youth empowerment, and transparency in governance.
“The Speaker’s qualities are rare; he is a listening leader, with a sense of fairness, and commitment to the well-being of Nigerians.
“We are proud to associate with the achievements of this parliament, and we owe it all to the leadership style of our Speaker.
“Under Abbas’ leadership, the House has passed several notable bills, including the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, Economic Diversification Bill, the National Health Insurance Act, and the Education Reform Bill. In fact, in the first six months, 120 bills passed the second reading stage.
“All these bills are intended to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions to the challenges that have plagued our society.
“Through these bills, the House is empowering our citizens, enhancing social justice, promoting economic growth, and promoting peace and security.
” The bills have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s economic growth, healthcare development, and education sector.
“The Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill for example will address the development and environmental concerns of host communities and set aside five per cent of the actual annual operating expenditures of power generating companies (GENCOs) from the preceding year for the development of their respective host communities.
“The Speaker’s fairness, humility, and dedication have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues, stakeholders, and the Nigerian public. His leadership style is characterized by openness, inclusivity, and a willingness to listen.
“As a House, we believe this is just the starting point”.
A coalition of civil society organisations in Zamfara Central has publicly called on philanthropist Yazeed Danfulani to contest for the senatorial seat in the National Assembly in the 2027 elections, citing his extensive humanitarian contributions and commitment to community development.
In a statement released on Sunday, the group’s spokesperson, Nuraddeen Garba Gusau, emphasised that the growing support for Danfulani transcends mere political sentiment.
“This is about Yazeed Danfulani’s proven dedication to the welfare of our people, demonstrated consistently without ever holding elected office,” Gusau said.
Danfulani, a prominent figure in Zamfara Central, has earned widespread admiration for his charitable initiatives.
He has funded the education of numerous children, offering opportunities to those who previously faced bleak prospects.
” His generosity also extends to providing financial and material aid to the less fortunate, helping families meet their basic needs.”
He said “Beyond individual support, Danfulani has bolstered small-scale entrepreneurs by distributing cars, tricycles, and financial capital, enabling many to achieve self-reliance.
“His efforts have significantly improved livelihoods across the region. Additionally, as a key supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara, Danfulani has played a vital role in strengthening the party’s unity and presence in the state.
The coalition believes Danfulani’s track record as a private citizen is a testament to his potential as a legislator.
“His selfless contributions are merely a glimpse of what he could achieve with the authority to legislate and attract development at the national level,” Gusau added.
News
Kaduna: Group calls EFCC, National Assembly, Kaduna state government’s intervention on alleged diversion of public funds
By Amos Tauna, Kaduna
The Executive Director of a non-governmental organization, Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative (EBYTDI), Mr Daniel Ejembi, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the National Assembly and Kaduna state government to intervene on alleged hijacking of a federal constituency project intended for public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
A statement issued by the Executive Director described the alleged diversion of the public resources to a private entity is a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a.
According to him, “This diversion of public resources to a private entity is a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a. We demand swift intervention by the Kaduna State Government, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the National Assembly to recover misused funds and prioritize education for all.”
The statement stated that investigation reveals that a federal project sponsored by Yakubu Umar Barde, former member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, was alleged to have been unlawfully diverted to Fatima Academy, a private school owned by Abdulhadi Abubakar.
Ejembi explained, “The project, initially earmarked for constructing a public school, was instead executed at Fatima Academy, which lacks registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).”
He added that the contractor, Amrah Farms Nigeria Limited (RC-1523474), with directors including Abdulyekin Bello Tahir and Bello Halimat Sadiq, executed the project in violation of its original mandate, lamenting that public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a faced severe deficits, including dilapidated classrooms, lack of sanitation facilities, and inadequate learning resources, exacerbating educational inequalities.
The Executive Director called for immediate probe into the alleged diversion of funds by relevant anti-corruption agencies and also called for urgent construction and renovation of classrooms, toilets, and perimeter fencing in the public schools.
He also appealed for the provision of desks, learning materials, and safe water systems for students and advised for legal action against unregistered institutions like Fatima Academy and accountability for involved parties.
Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Easter Monday morning.
Late Pope had been in and out of hospital in the last few weeks. He made a surprise appearance at the Easter Sunday service at Vatican on Sunday.
Details Later…