4 Governors, 12 Others to Receive Arewa Media Practitioners Award for National Development in Kano

All is now set for the Northern Security Dialogue, the 8th Arewa Media Practitioners Lecture on Insecurity in Northern Nigeria, scheduled for Wednesday, 13th May, 2026, at the Murtala Mohammed Library in Kano, under the able leadership of Professor Armaya’u Hamisu Bichi former Vice Chancellor Federal University Dutsinma.

“Our primary aim is to address insecurity, banditry, and terrorism in Northern Nigeria: Causes, Genesis, and Solutions, and to encourage leaders in the region to promote the virtues of good governance. This is the only way to attain sustainable growth and development in the region,” said Comrade Musa Mohammed, National President of Arewa Media Practitioners.

The event is expected to be a significant intellectual gathering, with scholars and experts presenting papers and offering valuable perspectives on addressing insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

16 Nigerians to be Honoured

During the security dialogue, 16 Nigerians from the Northern region will be honoured. Leading the awardees is the Executive Governor of Kano State and Chief Host, His Excellency, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, who will receive the Best Governor in Capital Projects, Good Governance, and Transparency Award.

Other governors to be honoured for implementing result-oriented programmes across their states are:

1. Senator Uba Sani — Executive Governor of Kaduna State
2. Hon. Mai Mala Buni — Executive Governor of Yobe State
3. Malam Umar Namadi (Danmodi) — Executive Governor of Jigawa State

Other Awardees Approved by the Selection Committee:

1. Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa — Chief of Defence Staff
2. HRH Muhammadu Sanusi II — Emir of Kano
3. Hon. (Dr.) Abubakar Kabir Abubakar — Member Representing Bichi Federal Constituency
4. Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni — Conservator-General, National Park Service
5. Dr. Muhammad Sani Idris — Executive Secretary, National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education
6. Hon. Ibrahim Adamu Jajere — Commissioner, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Yobe State
7. Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos — Commissioner, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Kaduna State
8. Prof. Hadiza Usman — Medical Director, Federal Medical Centre, Nguru
9. 7UP Bottling Company PLC — Kano Plant
10. Alqadi Muhammad Zubairu Wasagu — Director, Elkanemi College of Islamic Theology, Maiduguri, Borno State
11. Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar Wurno — Former Secretary-General, NMCN and Commissioner, Ministry of Health, Sokoto State
12. Dr. Salisu Salisu Fagge — Acting Provost, Federal Polytechnic, Kano

“Those nominated were singled out for recognition due to their enormous contributions to community service, societal development, and selfless service to humanity over the years,” the AMP president stated.

Theme, Causes, and Solutions

The theme of this year’s programme is: Insecurity, Banditry, and Terrorism in Northern Nigeria: Causes, Genesis, and Solutions.

Key Issues for Deliberation:

• Poverty, illiteracy, and unemployment fuel insecurity
• Land use disputes and poor governance exacerbate tensions
• An integrated approach is needed: military, political, and socio-economic strategies
• Community engagement and youth empowerment are crucial for lasting peace

Causes of Insecurity:
Cause Description
Poverty and Unemployment Lack of economic opportunities drives youth to extremism
Land Use Disputes Conflicting land tenure systems fuel farmer-herder conflicts
Poor Governance Corruption and marginalization exacerbate tensions
Proposed Solutions:

1. Integrated Approach: Combine military, political, and socio-economic strategies
2. Community Engagement: Collaborate with religious and traditional institutions
3. Youth Empowerment: Invest in education, vocational training, and economic opportunities
4. Regional Cooperation: Enhance cross-border cooperation to disrupt illicit arms trafficking

The Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, will serve as Royal Father of the Day at the occasion.

Arewa Media Practitioners will provide full coverage of the Northern Security Dialogue.

By Abubakar Musa

As Governor Umar Namadi marks three years in office, Jigawa State stands as a growing example of purposeful leadership, strategic planning, and people-centered governance. Within this period, his administration has steadily laid a solid foundation for sustainable development across critical sectors—touching lives, restoring hope, and building a future anchored on inclusiveness and progress.

Central to his administration’s achievements is the significant improvement in healthcare services. Recognizing health as a cornerstone of human development, the government prioritized expanding access to qualitative and affordable healthcare. This has been demonstrated through massive infrastructural development across primary, secondary, and tertiary health institutions. Notably, inherited projects were completed, while new facilities were initiated to bridge long-standing gaps in service delivery. Today, more communities enjoy better-equipped hospitals, improved medical services, and increased confidence in the state’s healthcare system.

In the education sector, Governor Namadi’s administration has pursued a deliberate and aggressive reform agenda. Through targeted interventions, infrastructural deficits in both basic and post-basic schools have been drastically reduced. Classrooms have been built and renovated, learning materials provided, and teacher recruitment strengthened—leading to improved pupil-teacher and student-teacher ratios. These efforts have translated into better learning environments and measurable improvements in academic outcomes. With a clear understanding of the importance of education and health, the government has consistently allocated not less than one-third of its annual budget to these two sectors over the past years, underscoring its unwavering commitment to human capital development.

Beyond social services, the administration has made bold strides in agriculture, infrastructure, and livestock development—key drivers of Jigawa’s economy. Farmers have received support through modern inputs, extension services, and improved access to markets, while investments in livestock development continue to strengthen rural livelihoods. The ambitious rollout of road construction projects across all local government areas has enhanced connectivity, facilitated trade, and opened up economic opportunities for both urban and rural communities.

Governor Namadi’s government has also demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering trade and small businesses. By creating enabling environments, supporting entrepreneurship, and providing opportunities for economic participation, the administration has helped stimulate local economies and uplift countless families across the state.

Equally important is the sustained effort in enhancing security and promoting peaceful coexistence. Through collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and stakeholders, Jigawa State has maintained its reputation as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. This stability has provided a conducive atmosphere for development, investment, and social harmony.

One of the most commendable aspects of Governor Namadi’s leadership is his inclusive approach to governance. His scholarship programs, which cut across all segments of society without discrimination, have opened doors for countless young people to pursue education and achieve their dreams. This commitment to fairness and equal opportunity reflects a leadership style that prioritizes unity, equity, and collective progress.

In just three years, Governor Umar Namadi has demonstrated that visionary leadership, when matched with action and sincerity of purpose, can deliver meaningful change. As Jigawa State continues on this trajectory, the achievements recorded so far serve not just as milestones—but as a promise of even greater progress in the years ahead.

By Comrade Musa Mohammed Moonlight

Malam Umar A. Namadi, FCA, popularly known as Danmodi, is a Nigerian accountant and politician who currently serves as the Executive Governor of Jigawa State.

Governor Umar Namadi is widely described by supporters as a leader by example — an altruistic personality, versatile politician, administrator, and intellectual. Many in Jigawa State see him as a prudent and transparent governor whose leadership style has won public admiration.

Namadi is credited with making history through developmental strides and bridge-building. Supporters rank him among the best-performing governors, saying he is deepening stakeholder engagement and setting standards others should emulate.

He has opened new frontiers, using projects and programmes to improve the quality of life of Jigawa residents.

Umar Namadi is regarded as a leader who carries his people along. He is described as generous, highly principled, and passionate, with a strong belief in the corporate existence of Nigeria.

His administration, which came into office on May 29, 2023, set clear benchmarks across education, health, infrastructure, ICT, agriculture, and youth and women empowerment. According to his team, the government has surpassed its annual good governance targets.

Infrastructure and Rural Development
In three years, the administration has completed several road projects while others are at various stages of completion. The government is constructing road and drainage networks across rural local government headquarters, complemented by solar-powered street lighting to extend economic activities into the evening and enhance security.

Under Governor Namadi’s leadership, Jigawa State has undertaken the renovation and construction of over 500 kilometers of roads across the state’s three senatorial zones. The road projects are aimed at empowering rural farmers to scale up from subsistence to medium-scale agricultural operations.

Education
The administration has focused on upgrading school infrastructure, enhancing teacher training, and providing essential learning resources. The government has constructed and reconstructed classrooms to accommodate thousands of pupils and supplied learning materials, stressing that “Education has the ability to open doors, break down barriers, and pave the way for a brighter future.”

Governance Style
Supporters say the Governor has redefined governance by prioritizing sustainable development and project delivery. “The era of abandoned projects is over in Jigawa,” one official noted. “What we are witnessing is a regime of initiating and delivering quality projects skewed towards leaving an enduring legacy.”

Governor Namadi is praised for his selfless approach to public service, strategic vision, and pragmatic management of issues. Admirers say he has demonstrated that leadership is defined not by age, but by experience, proactiveness, and collective vision.

“Confidence is the foundation of leadership,” the writer notes. “Umar Namadi exhibits the confidence that enables leaders to forge stronger relationships and maintain momentum.”

He is described as an enigma, exceptional leader, astute administrator, trailblazer, and philanthropist — _“a leader who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”

I, Comrade Musa Mohammed (Moonlight), earnestly pray to Almighty Allah to grant His Excellency, Umar Namadi (Danmodi), more wisdom and good health for greater historic successes in the years ahead and a successful tenure in office.

Comrade Musa Mohammed Moonlight
Political Analyst, Writer and Blogger
National President, Northern Online Media Reporters and Publishers (NOMRP)
President, Arewa Media Practitioners
moonlightnews15@gmail.com musamohdeen@gmail.com
08038895334

SADIQ MAMMAN LAGOS: The Legendary Kaduna Politician

By Comrade Musa Mohammed Moonlight

The history of Kaduna politics cannot be written without mentioning Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Kaduna State.

Described by supporters as a legendary grassroots politician, Sadiq Mamman Lagos is a former two-term Chairman of Kaduna North Local Government Area. For decades, he has been credited with contributing to political stability and development across Kaduna State.

A political strategist with a strong following, he commands support across all 23 local government areas of the state.

On several occasions, he has mediated disputes between politicians, intervening to reconcile parties and restore cordial relationships. He is known for uniting political actors within Kaduna.

The one and only key defender of Governor Uba Sani’s administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State.

He consistently responds to criticism and political attacks directed at the APC-led government, working to resolve issues that arise.

A philanthropist, known for generosity and assistance to the less privileged. His supporters attribute his political relevance to his passion for helping those in need.

He played a significant role in mobilizing support for the APC’s victory in the 2023 general elections in Kaduna State.

Some political stakeholders express confidence that if appointed Director General of the campaign for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in the 2027 general elections, Hon. Sadiq Mamman Lagos would deliver Kaduna State for the APC.

His experience as a grassroots mobilizer makes him the right person to lead the APC campaign team in the state.

By Comrade Musa Mohammed

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Yobe State, Alhaji Umar Aji Suleiman, and two Local Government Chairmen from Yobe State have been recognized by the Arewa Media Practitioners for good governance.

The awards highlight outstanding contributions to local community development. Notable recipients include Hon. Bukar Adamu, Chairman of Damaturu LGA and Yobe State ALGON Chairman, and Hon. Salisu Muktari, Chairman of Potiskum LGA.

Both the Permanent Secretary, Umar Aji — described as a “luminary of success” and an “administrator par excellence” — and the two local government chairmen were honored for good governance and development initiatives in recognition of their outstanding roles and contributions to the development of Yobe State.

The awards were presented by the Arewa Media Practitioners to encourage grassroots development and focused leadership among northern leaders.

According to Comrade Musa Mohammed, National President of Arewa Media Practitioners, the awards recognize significant contributions to community service and societal development. These accolades cover annual recognition for local government chairmen demonstrating high performance in their respective areas.

The president also commended the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, for putting in place an effective administration and results-oriented programmes across the state, which he said are visible and serve as a testimony to progress.

Receiving the awards, the Chairman of Damaturu LGA and Yobe State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Bukar Adamu, collected his own award and received two others on behalf of the Permanent Secretary and the Potiskum LGA Chairman, who were unavoidably absent.

“Today, I’m honored to receive a merit award as one of the performing Local Government Chairmen in Yobe State — the AREWA MEDIA PRACTITIONERS Merit Award for National Development,” Hon. Bukar said.

“This recognition strengthens my resolve to continue working tirelessly towards building a better Damaturu for all. I dedicate this award to the good people of Damaturu LGA for their constant support and encouragement.”

“I believe the media has a role to play in shaping everything that we do, not just in Nigeria but all over the world,” Hon. Bukar added.

AREWA MEDIA PRACTITIONERS is one of the foremost media organizations in the region and an umbrella body representing Chief Executive Officers of over 100 media houses across Northern Nigeria.

By Aminu Dallami

The House of Representatives aspirant for Gwaram Local Government, Hon. Adamu Yusuf Garkuwan Dutse (CNA, CITM, IBDFM, APPON), has passionately called on Nigerians to support the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Umar Namadi in the 2027 general elections.

Garkuwan Dutse made the appeal while addressing supporters, urging citizens across the country to vote overwhelmingly for the All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels. He stated that both leaders have shown exceptional commitment, resilience, and purposeful leadership in delivering the dividends of democracy.

According to him, the administrations of President Tinubu and Governor Namadi have recorded remarkable achievements in critical sectors such as education, security, agriculture, job creation, transportation, healthcare, and infrastructure development. He stressed that these strides have significantly improved the standard of living for many Nigerians and strengthened national development.

“President Tinubu and Governor Namadi have demonstrated capacity, vision, and determination. Their efforts in transforming education, strengthening security, advancing agriculture, and expanding road networks continue to inspire hope and pride among Nigerians,” he said.

Garkuwan Dutse further described the two leaders as dedicated, hardworking, and deeply committed to the welfare of the people. He emphasized that their leadership has positively impacted all facets of human development, including commerce and industry.

He expressed strong confidence that, given the numerous projects already executed and ongoing, the APC is well-positioned to secure a decisive victory in the 2027 elections. He added that continuity in leadership would further accelerate progress and national growth.

The aspirant also called on Nigerians to remain law-abiding, united, and patient, assuring that the APC-led government is working tirelessly to meet the needs and aspirations of the people.

“Let us embrace continuity for sustainable development and a brighter future. Together, we can achieve greater success under the APC,” he added.

By Aminu Dallami

Unidentified gunmen have reportedly kidnapped at least 14 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, candidates in Benue State.

The candidates were reportedly abducted during an attack on a commercial bus travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo in the state.

According to reports, the victims, largely young adults, were travelling to Otukpo, where they were scheduled to sit for their examinations on Thursday.

Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, who confirmed the incident to journalists in Makurdi, said the victims were heading to the town for their examinations when the attackers struck.

“The victims are young people coming to Otukpo to write JAMB. Security agents have been deployed and efforts are ongoing to rescue them,” Ogiri said.

Former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Abuja, on Thursday, April 16, 2026, issued a warrant of arrest against a former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, and a Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali.

Naija News understands that Farouq and Alkali were scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday before the court, but failed to appear. Only the third defendant, Sani Nafiu Mohammed, was present in court.

The trio are to be arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a twenty-one count charge bordering on breach of trust, abuse of office, fraudulent award of contract and conversion of public funds of about $1,300,000 (One Million, Three Hundred Thousand United States Dollars, and N746,574,303 (Seven Hundred and Forty Six Million, Five Hundred and Seventy Four Naira, Three Hundred and Three Naira).

They are accused of converting the said amount, which is public funds, for personal use.

Count one of the charge reads: “That you Sadiya Umar Farouq, While being Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, and Bashir Nura Alkali while being the permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, between 8 May 2021 and 22 September 2022, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, and in such capacity entrusted with certain property to wit, an aggregate sum of $1,300,000.00 (One Million, Three Hundred Thousand Dollars), committed criminal breach of trust in respect of the said property when you fraudulently converted the said sum to your personal benefit and which sum was meant to be refunded to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development by Visual ICT Limited, being excess funds paid by the Ministry under National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO) for the validation of Rapid Response Register beneficiaries and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 315 of the Penal Code and Punishable under the same Section.”

Prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), informed the court that the charge had been filed since December 15, 2025, but the first and second defendants could not be served.

“We could not arraign them on 15 December, because we could not produce them, but their lawyers in court promised that they would produce the defendants, but we didn’t see them until your lordship made an order for the state service. The defendants have now been served, my lord, only the third defendant has reported to the Commission when his surety was contacted. The third defendant’s surety is also in court”, he said.

Jacobs further informed the court that the first defendant wrote to the Commission that she was going for a medical check-up in Saudi Arabia in 2024, and her passport was released to her for the medical check-up but she has failed to return the passport since then.

“My lord, since that passport was released to her, she has not returned the passport to the Commission. We do not have the medical report in Saudi Arabia till date. Only this morning, my friend served me with an affidavit of fact, the learned senior counsel for the first defendant, wherein the deponent claimed that the first defendant took ill, my lord, all the medical reports which my friend attached to the affidavit of facts were issued after the charge had been filed. No medical report was issued or shown to us for the approved journey and the release of her passport,” he said.

Counsel to the first defendant, Abdul Ibrahim (SAN), informed the court that the reason for her absence was ill health. He also prayed the court to accept an affidavit of fact he sought to tender, but the court rejected the application.

Also, Jacobs informed the court that the EFCC wanted to amend an ex parte motion filed on February 16, 2026, which sought to limit the application to only the first and second defendants. He further prayed the court to order a warrant of arrest against the first and second defendants.

“We are praying your lordship to order or issue a warrant of arrest or bench warrant against the first and second defendants. It is also supported by an affidavit by one Celeb Peter on April 15, 2026 showing that the first and second defendants were granted bail but failed to report back and that the charge had been filed and served on them but they have failed to appear before the court today. It is imperative therefore for this honourable court to permit the Commission to arrest the first and second defendants so that they can be compelled to appear before the court,” he said.

The defence counsel, on the other hand, prayed the court to allow him to produce the first defendant in court within a period of six weeks

Delivering a ruling on the applications, Justice Onwuegbuzie issued a warrant of arrest against the first and second defendants and adjourned the matter till May 18, 2026, for arraignment and trial.

By Comrade Musa Mohammed and Musa Abubakar

‘Investigation conducted by teaming journalists has shown that significant achievements have been achieved in under the present administration of Professor Hadiza Abdullahi Usman, the Medical Director, federal medical centre Nguru’.

A team of journalists concerned with the development of public healthcare, particularly in the North visited the health institution in Nguru, Yobe state, were they assess the achievements made so far under the able leadership of Prof Hadiza Usman.

The journalists in their survey discovered the performance of medical centre and also their Investigation revealed that FMC Nguru are among the best as healthcare providers in Yobe state and nigeria at large.

Professor Hadiza Usman, since she assumed duty as the Medical Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Medical Centre Nguru, on November 18, 2022, the Centre has witnessed monumental and unprecedented development in various areas.

She is a Professor of Reproductive Health and Gynecology Oncology, making history as the first female to lead the Centre. Prior to this role, she was a consultant at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

The journalists has rated federal medical centre Nguru, Yobe state among the best in nigeria.

Prof. Hadiza reached impressive heights in her career.

She made FMC Nguru famous and proud.

This incredible woman achieved a lot since her assumption as the Medical Director.

The Federal Medical Centre Nguru, which is a Tertiary Healthcare Facility located in the North Eastern part of Nigeria with a mission to provide effective, efficient and affordable healthcare services to the citizenry in line with the Federal Government’s objectives for the healthcare delivery system.

The Administration came in on November 18, 2022. when Prof. Hadiza Usman was appointed as the substantive Medical Director of Federal Medical Centre, Nguru.
Upon resumption the administration met a lot of gaps to be filled in, such as Infrastructural development, Provision of Equipments, Training Personnel, and Welfare.

In an attempt to make a change, the Management took on bold steps towards ensuring that the deficits are corrected and the gaps are filled.

With the big challenges and limited resources she was able to make some giant strides in the centre.

The Centre facilities has undergone some adjustments over the years to transform it to a modern hospital as seen by the team of journalists visited the FMC Nguru.

A lot of equipments have been procured, as we witnessed, so as to enhance quality healthcare and diagnosis including, Welfare; With the competing demands and the limited resources of the Federal Government of Nigeria being the financier of the Centre, Prof. Hadiza Usman saw to need to collaborate with Non-Governmental Organization and philanthropist for support and interventions which has drawn a good number of support to the centre.

In every sector the accomplishment of any organization is tremendously relied on its employees, though it is expensive for the centre to spend the money on their employees but as part of her quest To transform the Federal Medical Centre Nguru into a centre noted for high quality medical care and a centre of excellence in the control of infectious diseases through surveillance, monitoring and clinical intervention.

Interacting with some staffs and residens, described Prof. Hadiza Usman as an administrator who has a listening ear who interacts with the union leaders on issues affecting members of staff is surely bond to succeed.

Such is the administration of Professor Hadiza Usman and his leadership style. This is described as a trait that distincts her administration from previous ones.

The mantra of PROF. HADIZA ABDULLAHI USMAN, is freedom to existing staff Unions which represent staff interest and discuss matters relating to staff welfarism with Management and proffer workable solutions.

Instances of staff welfarism, courtesy of her administration include but not limited to; payment of arrears, allowances, regularization of staff appointments, regular promotion and conversion exercise and regular staff training/ development sponsorship other entitlements for the staff.

The Medical Director has also promoted religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and industrial harmony.

What we saw is visible, infact, is a testimony .

Therefore, this amazing woman will be awarded a position in the rank of best 20 people of the year by AREWA MEDIA PRACTITIONERS in collaboration with NORTHERN ONLINE MEDIA REPORTERS AND PUBLISHERS.

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, Hon. Abubakar Mahmoud has intensified consultations with key stakeholders, seeking the support and blessings of party leaders and members toward his political aspiration.

During his engagements at the party secretariat and various ward offices, Abubakar Mahmoud emphasized the need for unity, loyalty, and collective responsibility in strengthening the party ahead of the polls. He noted that the success of any ambition lies in the solid backing of the grassroots and the confidence of party faithful.

He expressed appreciation for the warm reception and encouragement received from party executives and members, describing it as a strong motivation to continue engaging and listening to the people. According to him, his aspiration is driven by a genuine desire to serve, represent effectively, and bring meaningful development to the constituency.

Abubakar Mahmoud further called on party members to remain steadfast, committed, and focused on the larger goal of ensuring victory for the party in 2027.

He assured them of inclusive leadership, transparency, and dedication to the welfare of the people if given the mandate.

His move to seek early support reflects a strategic effort to build consensus, deepen internal democracy, and foster unity within the party structure as the race toward 2027 gains momentum.