COVER
North Central Christians Rally Support for Alia
By David Torough, Abuja
Christian leaders of the North central under the auspices of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) have expressed full confidence in the leadership of the Benue state governor, Rev. Fr.
Dr. Hyacinth Alia.The group which described Alia as an excellent example of good governance, made this known recently in Makurdi, the state capital during an interactive session with the governor. Led by its Chairman, CAN, North-Central Zone, Rev. Dr. Samson Jonah, the group thanked the Governor for making the Christian community in the North central zone proud of one of theirs who is making a huge difference in leadership.They said the developmental strides of the governor in the region is a glowing example of what a Christian in leadership should do which is in line with what the bible says “When the righteous is in authority, the people rejoice”In their various goodwill messages, the leaders lauded the achievements and developmental strides of the Governor from infrastructure, education, health, Agriculture, economy, youth and human capital development. They promised to continue to support his administration which they said was striving for progress, growth, and development.The group which also offered prayers for the Governor told him that they were looking up to him as their political leader in the North-Central.Governor Alia in his response charged the Christian group in North-Central to remain unified and continue to be good followers of what is right and truthful in the sight of God.He said their coming together should be a strong reminder of the cord that binds them, which should make the denominational varieties within its circles a source of strength rather than division. “Call it dogma, call it teaching, any form of name you want to give it, should rather bring us together”, Fr Alia said.The Governor also called on the Christian body in the North-Central to believe in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and continue to give him the necessary support he needs to make Nigeria truly a great nation, adding that all that he had achieved in Benue so far was through the instrumentality and support from President Tinubu.”I was fully convinced that Tinubu was the way to go, and I said no, we have to do this.He said while others were looking at the Muslim/Muslim ticket he was not looking at the religious aspect but at the personality; the capacity and the precedents that were set well before this time.Alia charged the people to remain in sync with development and be a symbol of hope for all people.He emphasised that the Christian community, which is the beacon of hope and window of salvation, must be in sync with development, with growth, with unity, and cohesion. “We must be a symbol of hope”, he said.Reacting separately, the Technical Adviser to the Benue state Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Solomon Iorpev said that the North Central Christian leaders have by this gesture and statements given a resounding vote of confidence to Governor Hyacinth Alia.“This is a significant endorsement, as it shows that the Christian community in the region is fully behind the governor’s vision and leadership. The award by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) North-Central is a testament to Governor Alia’s commitment to good governance and his dedication to the welfare of the people.“This goes to show that Governor Alia’s achievements in Benue state are truly impressive and have gained recognition beyond the shores of the state and it’s no wonder that he’s being hailed as a shining example of good governance by the North central region. From infrastructure to education, health, agriculture, and youth development, the governor has made significant strides in transforming the state. His leadership style, which is characterized by a deep sense of compassion and a servant-like approach, has earned him the respect and admiration of the people he serves.According to Iorpev, “One very outstanding and key area where Governor Alia has made huge and significant impact is in the area of internally displaced persons (IDPs). The governor has launched a five-year action plan to support IDPs in Benue, which is aimed at providing them with dignified emergency shelters and sustainable livelihoods. This plan is a testament to the governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people, and it’s clear that he’s dedicated to finding lasting solutions to the IDP crisis.“The governor’s plan has already started to yield results, with the successful relocation of IDPs from the Baka camp to temporary housing along the Makurdi – Gbajimba Road. This is a significant step towards fulfilling the governor’s promise to repatriate IDPs to their ancestral lands, and it’s clear that he’s making good on his word.“His commitment to the IDP crisis is not just limited to providing them with shelter and livelihoods. He’s also working to address the root causes of the crisis, which is a key aspect of his administration’s policy. By working to address the underlying issues that have led to the displacement of people, the governor is helping to create a more stable and secure environment for all citizens.The Technical Adviser emphasized that “A critical look at the governor’s message to the Christian community in the North-Central region clearly shows one of unity and cohesion. He urged them to remain united and to continue to be good followers of what is right and truthful in the sight of God. He also called on them to believe in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which is a clear indication of his commitment to the president’s vision for Nigeria. By throwing his weight behind the president’s agenda, Governor Alia is demonstrating his willingness to work with the federal government to achieve common goals.“The governor’s message of unity and cohesion in a region that has been plagued by division and strife is a breath of fresh air. His commitment to working with others to achieve common goals is evident in everything he does, and his dedication to the welfare of the people is clear.”Governor Alia is a man of strong conviction and principle, and he’s not afraid to take tough decisions when necessary. His commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu is a testament to his willingness to work with others to achieve common goals, and his dedication to the welfare of the people is evident in everything he does.“The truth is Governor Hyacinth Alia is a shining example of good governance in Nigeria. His commitment to the welfare of the people, his leadership style, and his achievements in Benue state are all testaments to his dedication to the people he serves. The fact that he’s been presented with two awards of honour is a significant indication of his growing influence in the region, and it’s clear that he’s ready to take on the challenge of leading the Christian community in the North-Central region.“As the governor continues to work towards achieving his vision for Benue state, it’s clear that he’s making good progress. His commitment to the IDP crisis, his leadership style, and his achievements in the state are all evidence of his dedication to the people. With his strong conviction and principle, Governor Alia is a leader who is worthy of emulation, and his example is one that should be followed by other leaders in Nigeria.As Governor Alia continues to make waves in Benue state, it’s clear that his future in politics is bright. He has the support of the Christian community, and his achievements are being recognized across the region. With his commitment to good governance and his dedication to the welfare of the people, Governor Alia is poised to become a major player in Nigerian politics.“His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia was presented with two awards of honour: from the CAN, North Central Zone as “Pillar of Excellence and Good Governance in Nigeria” and the other from Arewa Youth as “Garkuwan Matasan Arewa/ Vanguard of Good Leadership and Epitome of Peace,” Iorpev said.
By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s bilateral relations with Germany, with renewed focus on economic cooperation, investment promotion, energy partnerships, and the effective implementation of existing agreements.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, made this statement during a visit to the Ministry in Abuja on Monday by the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Nigeria, Stefan Rössel.
The minister welcomed the ambassador and his delegation, expressing Nigeria’s appreciation for Germany’s longstanding partnership and support for the country’s economic reform programme, particularly in the early stages of implementation.
He recalled that when German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Nigeria, the Federal Government was pursuing significant economic reforms that required support from international partners, including Germany, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the European Union.
The minister said Germany’s support has contributed to Nigeria’s progress in its reform efforts, adding that the country remains grateful for the cooperation and assistance it has received from its development partners.
He also acknowledged Germany’s role in facilitating high-level engagements between the two countries, particularly in trade, investment and energy cooperation, noting that discussions during the Nigerian President’s visit to Germany advanced talks on key energy agreements.
Senator Bagudu further commended Germany’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and international engagement, emphasising the importance of sustained partnerships to address evolving global economic and political challenges.
He noted that Nigeria and Germany had built a strong foundation for bilateral cooperation over the years, with significant opportunities to expand their partnership in areas that support economic growth and development.
The minister disclosed that discussions had covered cooperation involving €25 million and €300 million in export credit guarantees, identifying these as important areas for continued engagement as Nigeria seeks to expand investment opportunities and strengthen its capacity to utilise available resources effectively.
According to him, Nigeria’s reform efforts have created an opportunity to place greater emphasis on attracting investment, strengthening productive capacity, and translating international partnerships into tangible economic outcomes.
He assured the German ambassador that the ministry was prepared to work closely with the German government and its relevant institutions to deepen bilateral relations and broaden areas of mutual interest.
Earlier, Ambassador Rössel expressed appreciation for the warm reception he received, describing the relationship between Nigeria and Germany as strong and longstanding.
The ambassador, who arrived in Nigeria a few weeks ago, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to building on the partnership’s achievements and to exploring opportunities for further cooperation.
He acknowledged that both countries were operating in an increasingly complex global environment characterised by evolving strategic, political and economic challenges.
Despite these circumstances, Ambassador Rössel expressed confidence that the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Germany would provide a solid foundation for addressing emerging issues and sustaining mutually beneficial cooperation in the years ahead.
He also welcomed the ministry’s readiness to continue working with Germany, noting the importance of maintaining established partnerships while adapting to evolving circumstances.
In her remarks, the Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, congratulated Ambassador Rössel on his appointment, welcomed him to Nigeria, and expressed the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with him and with relevant German agencies.
She emphasised the importance of translating bilateral agreements and shared commitments into practical outcomes, noting that effective implementation remained critical to achieving the partnership’s objectives.
Dr Uzoka-Anite assured the ambassador that the ministry would continue to facilitate collaboration and support efforts to ensure joint initiatives progressed efficiently and delivered meaningful results.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Deborah Odoh, also welcomed the German delegation, describing Germany as a reliable partner whose technical expertise, knowledge exchange and experience had contributed to Nigeria’s development.
She said the ministry expects the ambassador’s tenure to create further opportunities to strengthen cooperation and to advance the longstanding relationship between the two countries.
The courtesy visit reaffirmed Nigeria and Germany’s shared commitment to sustaining bilateral engagement, deepening economic cooperation, and exploring opportunities for expanded investment and development collaboration.
By Laide Akinboade, Abuja
As part of efforts to reposition the newspaper for optimum corporate performance, the management of Asset Newspapers Limited, Publishers of DAILY ASSET, has announced the appointment of David Torough as the Editor of the Abuja-based national daily.
A statement by the management said the appointments were part of the company’s new strategy to further penetrate the various states in the country and raise its readership and patronage.
“DAILY ASSET is widely acceptable across the country and to maintain our leadership position, we need to increase management presence, hence the need to create new Bureau offices in some locations outside Abuja and Lagos,” the statement quoted the Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief, Dr Cletus Akwaya to have said.
In a statement yesterday, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the fast-growing daily, Dr. Cletus Akwaya said the appointment was part of the new strategy to properly situate the paper for better productivity.
“DAILY ASSET has a commitment with the Nigerian people. We are determined to weather the storm and give Nigerian readers a Newspaper that satisfies their yearnings and reading pleasure and we can only do that with the right set of professionals,” the statement said.
Akwaya, a former Commissioner of Information from Benue State said the difficult times being faced by Nigerians posed a great challenge to the media as the people deserved credible information with which to make choices.
“We have a bond with the people, to offer credible information at all times in the best tradition of the Nigerian Press and on this scale of objectivity, truth and fairness, we pledge to remain steadfast no matter the challenges,” Akwaya was quoted to have said.
He said the newspaper will maiantin its daily print run and circulation to all states of the federation and urged advertisers to take advantage of the deep penetration of the Daily Asset brand to send their messages.
Torough, the new Editor has had a steady rise in the Newspaper in the last five years.
A graduate of Mass communication of the Benue State University, Makurdi, Torough joined the company in 2022 as Benue State Correspondent. He was spotted for his brilliance and redeployed to Abuja the following year and promoted to Deputy News Editor. He was subswuently named Deputy Editor of the paper, a position he held until the recent appointment.
Torough has attended several journalistic workshops and trainings to properly equip himself for the task ahead.
The statement also said the Management named Eze Okechukwu as Deputy Editor.
Before his elevation as Deputy Editor, Eze has been Deputy Politics Editor and DAILY ASSET Newspaper correspondent covering the Senate, having joined the organization in 2021.
Born on March 10, 1975, Eze holds a Masters Degree in Mass Communication from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology.
Eze began his journalism career with Daily Star, Enugu and later worked with Daily Trust Newspaper, Abuja as sports reporter.
Aside from his journalistic excellence, he has a great deal of passion for sports.
From Ngutor Dekera, Kaduna and Aliyu Askira, Kano
Northern governors and traditional rulers yesterday called for the suspension of mining activities across the region for six months, blaming illegal mining for worsening insecurity in many states.
The resolution was contained in a communiqué issued after a joint meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna. The meeting, chaired by the Gombe State Governor and NSGF Chairman, Muhammadu Yahaya, had in attendance the 19 northern governors and chairmen of the 19 states’ traditional councils.The Forum expressed concern over the escalating violence in parts of the North, including the killings and abductions recently recorded in Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa and Kano states, as well as renewed Boko Haram attacks in Borno and Yobe.“The Forum extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to the governments and good people of the affected states,” the communiqué said, noting that the attacks on schoolchildren and other citizens had become “unacceptable tragedies” that required urgent collective action.It commended President Bola Tinubu for what it described as the Federal Government’s “firm response” to recent abductions and insurgency threats, especially the rescue of some abducted pupils.The governors also saluted security agencies for their sacrifices on the frontlines.“We resolved to renew our support for every step taken by the President and Commander-in-Chief to take the fight to insurgents’ enclaves in order to end the criminality,” the Forum stated.A major highlight of the meeting was the North’s renewed push for the establishment of state police, with governors and traditional rulers insisting that decentralised policing had become inevitable.“The Forum reaffirms its wholehearted support and commitment to the establishment of state police,” the communiqué added, urging federal and state lawmakers from the region to “expedite action for its actualisation.”On illegal mining, the governors said criminal mining networks were fuelling violence and providing resources for armed groups.As a corrective measure, they asked Tinubu to direct the Minister of Solid Minerals to impose a six-month suspension of mining activities in order to allow for a full audit and revalidation of licences.“The Forum observed that illegal mining has become a major contributory factor to the security crises in Northern Nigeria. “We strongly recommend a suspension of mining exploration for six months to allow proper audit and to arrest the menace of artisanal illegal mining,” it said.To strengthen the fight against insecurity, the governors also announced the creation of a regional Security Trust Fund.Under the proposed arrangement, each state and its local governments will contribute ₦1bn monthly, to be deducted at source under an agreed framework.They said the fund would help provide sustainable financing for joint operations, intelligence-driven interventions and coordinated security responses across the region.At the end of the meeting, the Forum reaffirmed its commitment to unity and collective responsibility.“Only through unity, peer review and cooperation can we overcome the pressing challenges before us,” it declared.The Forum agreed to reconvene on a date to be announced.Meanwhile, Nigeria’s worsening security crisis took a grim turn on Monday as bandits launched fresh attacks in Kano State, abducting 25 villagers, even as the Federal Government raced to secure the release of more than 300 Catholic school children kidnapped in Niger State.In the early hours of Monday, armed bandits invaded Unguwar Tsamiya—popularly called Dabawa—in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, whisking away nine men and two women after shooting into the air and assaulting residents. The attackers also rustled two cows.A resident lamented the community’s helplessness: “We cannot do otherwise; most of us cannot leave because we have nowhere to go. This is our place, our land and everything is here.”The assault came less than 24 hours after a similar attack on Yan Kamaye in Tsanyawa LGA, a community along the volatile Katsina border.In Niger State, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has assured distraught families of St. Mary’s Co-Education School, Kontagora that the more than 300 students and staff abducted on November 21 will return home “soon.” Ribadu, who led a high-level federal delegation to the school on Monday, said the abductees are safe, though he offered no specifics on their location or the status of rescue operations.According to Daniel Atori, spokesman for the Catholic bishop overseeing the school, the NSA reassured officials: “The children are where they are and will come back safely.”The St. Mary’s attack is part of a worrying resurgence of mass kidnappings reminiscent of the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction. Security analysts warn that banditry has evolved into a “structured, profit-seeking industry,” with hundreds of Nigerians abducted in November alone.The Kontagora school abduction occurred the same week 25 girls were kidnapped in Kebbi State—victims who authorities say have since been rescued through “non-kinetic” means. About 50 of the St. Mary’s hostages have also managed to escape.Ribadu’s delegation, which included the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing the freedom of all abducted citizens.As communities from Kano to Niger continue to bear the brunt of these violent incursions, the escalating spate of kidnappings underscores the urgent national demand for a more decisive and coordinated security response.
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