By Abubakar Musa

In its desire to bring educational institutions to the doorsteps of its citizens and those of neighboring states, the Federal Government of Nigeria established the Federal College of Forestry Mechanization, Afaka-Kaduna in 1976 to improve qualitative education in the country. The College was established with the primary objectives of providing full-time courses, instruction, in-service training, and promotion in technology, science, and humanities.

From its inception to date, the college has recorded remarkable achievements, particularly in providing sound and qualitative education to students. These achievements are attributed to infrastructural development, improved welfare for staff and students, and the maximization of standard learning and teaching aids.

However, despite these achievements, the college faced challenges such as inadequate funding, insecurity, lack of good governance, and industrial disharmony. These challenges hindered its smooth operation, affecting both staff and students.

THE REFORMER HAS MADE IT AGAIN, THINGS HAVE DRASTICALLY CHANGED FOR THE BETTER

Under the leadership of Dr. Patrick Gregory Boni as Provost, the Federal College of Forestry Mechanization has transformed into a center of excellence. Upon resumption, Dr. Boni set up various committees to identify problems and challenges faced by the institution and promptly addressed them.

Some of the challenges addressed include security concerns, non-observance of due process, and lack of discipline. Dr. Boni engaged critical stakeholders to help identify and address these issues, reviving the administrative structure and instilling discipline.

The Provost also prioritized providing a conducive atmosphere, secured and friendly environment. Despite the topography challenges, Dr. Boni pursued support from the federal and state governments and other stakeholders to improve the college’s infrastructure.

Another milestone achieved under Dr. Boni’s administration is the issuance of certificates to graduating students. The management of FCFM has announced the issuance of ND and HND certificates for students who graduated without any delay.

Some of Dr. Boni’s close associates described him as a person who considers his job as serving God and humanity. The achievements recorded in transforming FCFM are based on his open-door policy, belief in synergy, and decentralization of power in administration.

What really matters now is sustainability. This underscores the need for the federal government to maintain and improve the support rendered to the institution, and for staff and students, particularly principal officers and other critical stakeholders, to support the Provost in taking the institution to greater heights.

The Community Action For Good Governance has honoured the Rector College of Administration, Management and Technology (CAMTECH) Potiskum, with prestigious award of excellence.

The organization has bestowed on Ibrahim Bomai Zarma the award for his recognition of his outstanding role and contributions towards educational development in the state.

The award was presented to the Rector College of Administration, Management and Technology Potiskum, Yobe State by comrade Abubakar Musa, Secretary of the association on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

Comrade Abubakar Musa and his teams respectively, described Ibrahim Bomai Zarma as a transformative leader who has unified and touched the life’s of many Nigerians particularly Yobeans.

According to him, the Rector deserves to be awarded, as he is a transformative leader, who has performed creditably well in bringing crucial development in the college in all aspects.

“As a Journalists, we have watched with keen interest the tenure of Mal Ibrahim Bomai Zarma, we can say without mincing words that, he is a unifier, for he has ran an inclusive Administration, carrying all sections of the college along irrespective of tribal/ ethnic and religious sentiment.

In his remark at the occasion, the Deen Students affair’s of the college Mohammed Dahiru Zayi expressed his deep appreciation for the honor and reaffirmed their total support to the Rector in his transformation agenda.

Zayi, who is also known as Sarkin Adabin Fika says, Ibrahim Bomai Zarma is a simple person, visionary leader, courageous personality, perseverance administrator, a mentor to his mentees and multitalented academic guru, who transformed the institutions beyond expectations.

He emphasized the wisdom of the college rector on expanding the access to educational courses and programs that empower professionals and communities to improve the quality standards of education across the state.

This recognition further underscores Mr Ibrahim Bomai Zarma visionary leadership and dedication to sustainable development through education and innovation.

In his closing remarks the Rector of the college, Ibrahim Bomai Zarma thanks the management of community action for good governance for finding him worthy with the prestigious award of excellence as an “ICON OF NATION BUILDING”. He expressed his satisfaction with the cordial relationship between his office as Rector and the management staffs of the college.

Similarly, he thanks the executive governor of the state His Excellency Hon. Mai Mala Buni for given them all the necessary support in the college, as he said without his support All the achievement recorded will not be counted.

By Musa Abubakar

The general manager, Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA), Yobe state, Alh Abubakar Liman Babanyawo says the administration of his excellency the executive governor of Yobe state honorable Mai Mala Buni is committed in providing desired projects to the people in the state.

Liman Babanyawo disclosed this when he received the team of Community Action For Good Governance that paid him a courtesy visit and presented the award of excellence in his office on Tuesday 15 April, 2025.

Liman Baba lauds Mai Mala Buni administrative style and commitment in alleviating the sufferings and poverty in the state by providing relief projects across the state, the gevernment paid adequate attention on Health sector, Education, Security, Agriculture, Youth and Women empowerment are top on his agenda, he said.

Alhaji Liman Baba used the occasion to called on the general public and stakeholders in the hygiene and sanitation sector to develop a comprehensive roadmap towards achieving open defecation-free status in the country, which is the root cause of all waterborne diseases such as cholera, diarrhea and hepatitis

The general manager thanks the management of community action for good governance for finding him worthy all the way from Kaduna, he said, “I dedicated the award to all staff of the rural water supply and sanitation agency (RUWASA)”, It’s a collective efforts not mine alone.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation Comrade Bilyaminu Zakari on his speech during the award presentation commended Alh Abubakar Liman Babanyawo and encouraged his leadership tactics.

According to Bilyaminu, the general manager invaluable recognition to good governance, generosity, caring and sense of belonging is what admired the organization to considered him for the award.

CAGG leader while congratulating the GM Ruwasa for the well deserved award, says there visit is to encourage him to do more for the good people of Yobe state in providing portable water in the rural areas and to remain focused, while he discharges his duties as the head of the agency effectively.

By Musa Abubakar

A group known as Arewa  Coalition Of Youths has declared that  over 65,000 Northern groups will vote massively again for President Bola Tinubu at the 2027 general elections.
The Arewa Coalition Of Youths made the declaration at a press conference in Kaduna.
Addressing the journalists, the Dirwctor General of the group, Hon. Abubakar Aliyi ( Galadiman Takai) said their support for the Tinubu administration which they campaigned vigorously for its emergence was informed by his achievements in the office over the last one years.
”We have decided to hold this press conference to express our total support to His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. As Nigerians we have seen different political dispensations but what we are seeing now under President Tinubu is quite wonderful achievements.
Galadiman Takai  said  president has been working tirelessly to implement various projects across the country including the north such as the Presidential Initiative on CNG while it made significant progress in attracting investments to the country.
“As we move forward, we are committed to supporting the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, and to working with all stakeholders to ensure its success. Secondly ACY we have over 2 million member with PVC that will massively vote for president Bola Tinubu in comes 2027′. We believe that with the support of Nigerians we can achieve our goals and create a brighter future for our countr” he said.
Overall, President Tinubu’s projects in the North have focused on economic development, security, and social welfare, with a goal of improving the lives of Nigerians and promoting sustainable growth.
According to him “Notable among the renewed hope benefits to the north is the  appointment of Arewa sons and daughters into positions in his government, including; the SGF, minister of defense, humanitarian among others but few to mention,” Galadima  added. 

By Muh’d Rabo

The Community Action For Good Governance is a non governmental organization served with the responsibility in providing social welfare and social amenities to the needy.

The organization honored Prof. Muhammad Bello Kawuwa, the honorable commissioner ministry of higher education science and technology Damaturu, Yobe State with award of excellence, as icon of nation building.

The award is giving to him for his invaluable recognition to good governance, outstanding role, in both health and educational transformation, exceptional leadership, dedication, commitment and selfless service to humanity towards national development.

According to a statement issued to journalists in Yobe state by the members of the association said the award was bestowed in recognition of Prof. Kawuwa efforts in promoting peace and peaceful coexistence in yobe.

He has continuously displayed commitment and compassion for the less privileged, serving as an inspiration to many.

This significant event reflect his unwavering contribution to humanitarian service, particularly his efforts in transforming educational sector in Yobe state within the short period of time of his stewardship as commissioner.

In his remarks, the honorable commissioner ministry of higher education science and technology, Prof. Muhammad Bello Kawuwa thanks the delegations of Community Action For Good Governance for finding him worthy with award of excellence, he said am short of words, i don’t know what to say, all i can say to you is Jazakallah bi Khair and may Allah bless you and bless your association for rendering assistant to the needy’s and providing community services.

The Hon. Commissioner also thanks his team members for all the support given to him, as he said without their support all the success recorded will not be there.

Prof. Kawuwa, expressed his satisfaction with the leadership style of their mentor, leader and vibrant governor, his excellence honorable Mai Mala Buni for given him the opportunity to serve in his administration. He always supported our projects for the betterment of Yobe state.

By Bilyaminu Zakari

The Permanent secretary ministry of transport and energy, Dr. Mustapha Abba Geidam says the administration of his excellency the executive governor of Yobe state is committed in providing desired projects to the people of the state.

Dr. Mustapha Abba Geidam disclosed this when team of Community Action For Good Governance paid him a courtesy visit and presented the award of excellence in his office Damaturu the state capital.

Geidam lauds Hon. Mai Mala Buni administrative commitment in alleviating the sufferings and poverty by providing relief projects across the state, the gevernment paid adequate attention on Health sector, Education, Security, Agriculture, Youth and Women empowerment are top on his agenda, he said.

Abba Geidam thanks the management of community action for good governance for finding him worthy, all the way from Kaduna to come and testified his generosity in human development. he said, “I dedicated this award to all staffs of the ministry of transport and energy”, It’s a collective efforts not mine alone.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation Comrade Abubakar Musa on his speech during the award presentation commended Dr. Mustapha Abba Geidam leadership style and task the members of the team to emulate his commitment and sacrifice in human development.

According to Abubakar, Dr. Geidam invaluable recognition to good governance, generosity, caring and sense of belonging is what admired our organization to considered him for the award.

CAGG, while congratulating Dr. Mustapha Abba Geidam for the well deserved award, said there visit is to encourage him to do more for the good people and development of Yobe state and to remain focused, while he discharge his duties as the permanent secretary.

The Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Kaduna Chapter, has kick-started an awareness campaign to address the rising issue of building and infrastructure collapse in Nigeria

The exercise held across the 36 states of the federation today 25 January, 2025.

the campaign invites professionals in the building sector, including civil, agricultural, electrical, and mechanical engineers, architects, and quantity surveyors, to participate in the 5-kilometer road walk.

The event aims to advocate for safer buildings and infrastructure while fostering collaboration among professionals in the construction industry.

As the (NICE) declared walk against building and infrastructure collapse, which is being the first of it kind in the whole Federation will be sensitize every year, Chairman, Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers Kaduna State Chapter, Engr Usman Muhammad Falalu has called on Nigerians to avoid using quacks engineers, something that will cost you less, will cost you much because of unprofessionalism in the sector, we do our things with calculations, he said.

The chairman made the call when he led administrative staff including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers on a walk against building and infrastructure collapse sensitization campaign in Kaduna.

Engr Falalu then called on members of the public to ensure that they take measures in order to avoid losing their building and infrastructure, we have to work out quacks engineers in the profession, pointing out that whenever they notice so, they should consult experts.

In his remarks the chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Samson Arege Bawa explained that, “We are carrying this walk in order to create awareness on the activities that we engage by sensitizing members of the public to avoid exposing themselves especially those with no knowledge on building and infrastructure activities.

Engr Bawa, emphasize that members of the general public should engage the service’s of professional engineers when doing their buildings and infrastructures, “we say no to building collapse, build right and build safe”

By Muh’d Rabo Aliyu

The APC Kaduna North local government has honoured Hon. Abubakar Mahmud Jarman Abakwa for community development.

The statement said after a very good observation of your attitude and behaviours. The APC local government stirring committee, nominated you as one of the awards winner of the year 2024. Based on your contributions, hardworking, dedication towards the progress and development of our great party APC.

The event brought together community leaders, politicians from across the local government to recognise the significant contributions made to the community and APC by Jarman Abakwa.

Jarma was honoured with the APC Golden Award “In recognitions of his outstanding performance, commitment and dedication to the great party, All Progressive Congress (APC) Kaduna North Local Government.”

In his remarks, the APC Kaduna north local government chairman, Hon. Sulaiman Usman Wada, said Jarma were selected for the honour, based on his contributions to the party (APC), commitment to community development, advancing education, particularly through the support of scholarship, teachers’ welfare and youths empowerment program.

Speaking with journalists after receiving the awards, Jarman Abakwa Hon. Abubakar Mahmud reaffirmed his commitment to further investing in education, supporting his party (APC), emphasising the importance of sustaining progress to ensure future generations thrive.

Equally, Jarman Abakwa, thanks HE governor Uba Sani for his transparent leadership in Kaduna State. He also thanks the APC leaders both in the state and local government for finding him worthy with such an award for excellence performance.

By Musa Abubakar

In the realm of Nigerian politics, there are individuals who rise from humble beginnings to become beacons of hope and agents of change. Hon Sanusi Abdullahi, the newly PDP party chairman of Kaduna South local government, is one such individual. From his early days as a civil servant to his current position, Sanusi has proven to be a gentleman, energetic, and trusted leader who prioritizes the needs of his people above all else. This feature aims to shed light on his remarkable journey and the positive impact he has made in his community.

Hon Sanusi Abdullahi ascent to the seat of Chairman is a testament to his unwavering commitment to serving his people. His journey began as a qualified and professional politician where he fearlessly voiced his opinions on matters affecting his community. Recognizing his potential, the people of Kaduna South Local Government rallied behind him, propelling him into the political arena.

The newly party chairman political journey is characterized by discipline, loyalty, and a patient approach to leadership. His ability to foster collaboration between party members, regardless of political affiliation, speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the greater good. PDP members have expressed their support for him, recognizing his genuine desire to uplift the entire community.

Sanusi’s a seasoned politician with a remarkable track record, his popularity stems from his approachability and willingness to listen to the concerns of the people he leads. Described as a friend and brother, his door is always open, and he takes pride in being a leader who is readily available to address the needs of his people. This accessibility has earned him the trust and respect in the entire Kaduna South Local Government and beyond, who see him as a reliable leader.

His experience in governance, couple with his dedication to community service, position Hon. Sanusi Abdullahi as a transformative leader who can bring about meaningful change. As he prepares to lead Kaduna South Local Government PDP party chairman; he is a beacon of hope for progress and development.

Since the announcement of Hon. Sanusi Abdullahi as substantive PDP Party chairman of Kaduna South Local Government, he has wasted no time in making significant contributions to his community. He has been actively involved in various activities, sponsored the education of less privileged individuals, empowering them to build a better future among others.

Beyond his tangible contributions, Sanusi is known for his commitment to fostering peace within his community. He understands the importance of unity and has consistently advocated for peaceful coexistence among diverse groups. His efforts to promote harmony have earned him respect not only in his local government but also within the state and beyond.

The PDP party chairman of Kaduna South Local Government dedication to his people extends beyond his own position. He actively participated in campaigns for the success of hon Hussaini Abdulkarim Kero from Kaduna South local government in the 2023 elections. This demonstrates his unwavering support for leaders who share his vision for progress and development.

Throughout his civil service journey, Hon. Sanusi’s remained true to his value of discipline, integrity, and service to the nation. He brought a fresh perspective to the political landscape, emphasizing the importance of healthcare, security, development, and unity.

Hon Sanusi is a testament to his dedication, passion, and genuine concern for his people. Through his philanthropic endeavors, commitment to peace, and support for worthy causes, Sanusi has proven that he is a leader who goes above and beyond to make a positive impact. As his star continues to rise, it is clear that the sky is only the beginning for this remarkable grassroots politician.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday quizzed Abubakar Ahmad Sirika over an alleged N8.06 billion contract fraud in the Federal Ministry of Aviation.

Abubakar is the brother of immediate-past Minister Hadi Sirika, believed to have awarded the contracts to his sibling.

By Muh’d Rabo Aliyu Bureau-chief, Abuja

Abubakar’s arrest on Sunday was part of the ongoing probe of alleged fraudulent practices in the Ministry of Aviation during the tenure of the ex-minister.

EFCC is probing allegations of conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, contract inflation, criminal breach of trust and money laundering.

Of the contract sum, about N3, 212,258,930.18 has been traced to Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by Abubakar, who is a Level-16 officer, a deputy director, in the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

It was learnt that four big contracts were awarded to Abubakar’s Engirios Nigeria Limited when his brother was in charge of the ministry.

According to EFCC investigators, Abubakar Sirika is listed as the company’s Managing Director (MD)/Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Besides, it was found out that he is the sole signatory to the two accounts linked to the firm with two banks.

The four contracts the ex-minister awarded to his brother are:

• Construction of the Terminal Building in Katsina Airport (N1,345,586,500.00);

• Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre in Katsina Airport (N3, 811,497,685.00);

• Procurement and installation of elevators, air conditioners and power generator house in Aviation House, Abuja (N615,195,275.000);

• Procurement of Magnus Aircraft and simulator for Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria (N2, 296,897, 404.00).

A top official of the anti-graft agency said: “In connection with the ongoing probe of the Ministry of Aviation during Hadi Sirika’s tenure, EFCC’s crack team was able to uncover four contracts, worth about N8,069,176,864.00, which were not executed.

“The sum was for four aviation contracts from the former minister to Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by his sibling.

“While profiling the contracts, there was a payment of N3,212,258,930.18 out of the total contract sum to Engirios Nigeria Limited, which is owned by the younger brother of the ex-Minister of Aviation.

“Apart from being listed as the company’s MD/CEO, Abubakar is the sole signatory to the company’s two accounts.

“Investigators further discovered that upon the receipt of the payment, Abubakar allegedly transferred it to different companies and individuals.

“There is no trace of work done on any of the contract items to date.

“These developments led to the arrest and detention of Abubakar on Sunday by the EFCC.

“He was grilled for several hours yesterday. He is providing the commission with additional useful information on the financial activities of the Aviation Ministry under the supervision of his elder brother.”

It was learnt that the contract awards and the timelines were between August 2022 and May 2023.

A document obtained by The Nation reads in part: “It is suspected that the ex-Minister, Hadi Sirika awarded the contracts to his brother Abubakar, knowing that he is a senior civil servant, working since 2000.

“The first of the controversial contracts awarded to Engirios Nigeria Limited was on August 18, 2022, for the construction of the Terminal Building in Katsina Airport.

“The second was awarded on November 3, 2022, for the establishment of the Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre in Katsina Airport.

“The third contract was on February 3, 2023, for the procurement and installation of elevators, air conditioners and power generator’s house in Aviation House, Abuja.

“The fourth was awarded on May 5, 2023, bearly 24 days to the end of the Buhari Administration tenure, for the procurement of Magnus Aircraft and simulator for Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria.”

It was gathered that the four contracts formed the first segment of the ongoing probe of Sirika’s tenure.

There were indications that the EFCC was looking into the Nigeria Air controversy.

There was also controversy about how much was released for the Nigeria Air project.

While some critics alleged that N85 billion was expended on it, Sirika claimed that N5 billion was approved but N3 billion was released.

He said his administration did not spend the N3 billion before he left office.

Sirika said: “In 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, all of the monies voted and budgeted for the national carrier was N5 billion.

“But all that was released is in the neighbourhood of about N3billion, not N85billion and all of the N3billion had not been expended as of the time I left office.

“What was done with the money was nothing but transaction advisory services, the AOC process, salaries, consultancy services and the offices in Abuja.

“No contract was given by Hadi Sirika or the administration at the time. These are the things that the money was used for.”

The Nation