Kano Collaborates With Morocco To Boost Solar Power Generation

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April 20, 2025

Abba-Kabir-Yusuf-Kano-Governor (1) — Governor Abba-Kabir-Yusuf

By Ayodele Oni

Kano State Government Light-Up initiative has received a boost from Moroccan institution, to generate 2,000 megawatts of solar power within the next five years.

This is one of the fallouts of a visit by officials from Kano State, led by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the Kingdom of Morocco to explore potential collaborations in agriculture and renewable energy.

Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, in a statement, explained that the delegation, during the visit, secured Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with key Moroccan institutions which focus on clean energy, agribusiness, and trade.

“During the trip, the delegation held meetings with the Moroccan Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN), and OCP Africa, among others.

“A major highlight of the visit was a proposed partnership with MASEN, the agency behind Morocco’s 500-megawatt solar plant in Ouarzazate.

“The collaboration is expected to support Kano’s Light-Up Kano Initiative, which aims to generate 2,000 megawatts of solar power within the next five years.

“MASEN has pledged to share its expertise, lessons learned, and offer technical support for Kano’s Light-Up Kano Initiative.”

The statement further explained that the collaboration would also focus on “investor identification, financing models, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies for energy storage and efficient distribution, particularly targeting the industrial sector.”

In another session, the Casablanca Chamber of Commerce expressed interest in investing in Kano’s renewable energy and solid minerals sectors, with potential investments projected at $10 billion over the next five years.

“On the agricultural front, the team met with OCP Africa, a major player in fertilizer production.

“Discussions centered on building fertilizer blending plants in Kano, strengthening supply chains, and introducing modern farming technologies for small holder farmers.

“OCP welcomed the partnership, proposing new agricultural development projects that include support for small holder farmers through modern farming technologies.

“Governor Yusuf’s administration described the visit as “a major milestone in the state’s pursuit of global partnerships to fast-track industrial growth, clean energy transition, and sustainable agricultural development.”

“Mr President, Please, Bring Us Down From This Painful Cross Of Hunger” – Kukah To Tinubu

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Ayodele Oni

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April 20, 2025

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Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, of Catholic Diocese of Sokoto has observed that Nigeria is presently carrying insecurity as its cross of shame.

In his Easter homily, titled “Mr President Bring Us Down From This Cross,” the activist – Bishop pointed out that allowing insecurity to persist in the country will undermine all forms of goodwill that this or any government in Nigeria espouses.

“We have all the ingredients to create a toxic mix of violence that can spin out of control.

“Right now, frustration has penetrated every spectrum of our society especially as the government and its security agencies seem to have largely become spectators in the dance of death that has overtaken our country.

“We are in a dilemma now and the question is simple: is the persistence of the insecurity a statement of the lack of capacity of our men and women in uniform, or is it evidence that those at the top are reaping the fruits of funding their own war machine?

“In other words, are Nigerians lambs being sacrificed to an unknown god? Mr. President, step up, get to the finishing line and bring us down from this cross of shame.

“Mr. President, we all admit that you neither erected this cross nor did you effect our collective crucifixion. Notwithstanding, Nigerians have been dangling and bleeding on this cross of pain and mindless suffering for too long.

“A culture of cynicism and self-doubt over our capacity to secure peace for ourselves pervades our land. Indeed, a majority of our citizens feel that there is no hope in sight.

“Some years back, some of our public officers confessed that they brought our current killers into our country as a strategy for upstaging the government of the day and to gain power.

“Strange as it may sound, today we have watched as the cancer of insecurity and violence have metastasized. Now, this cancer threatens the very foundation of our common humanity.

“The bandits have not only become embedded in every sphere of our lives, they threaten to destroy all that holds our communities together.

“This self-destructive cancer has invaded our communities and kidnapping is a now a dog whistle for undermining the very structure and foundation of our country. We now hang on the cross at the mercy of these forces of darkness. Mr. President, please, bring us down from this cross of insecurity.

“We are confident that a majority of the citizens of our country want to live in peace with one another.

“However, allowing this insecurity to persists will undermine all forms of goodwill that this or any government in Nigeria espouses. We have all the ingredients to create a toxic mix of violence that can spin out of control.”

Kukah also identified hunger as one of the problems of Nigerians urging President Bola Tinubu to make food security right for Nigerians.

‘Mr. President, hunger, sickness and desolation stalk the land. We still believe removing the subsidies was the right decision.

“We note that the country now has a huge volume of resources in its domestic reserves. For over ten years now, farming has become one of the most hazardous pre-occupations in our country.

‘I restate the obvious by warning that mere palliative distribution diminishes the dignity of citizens. We have remained between the rock of self-doubt and the hard place of hopelessness. Make food security a fundamental human right to all citizens. Mr. President, please bring us down from this painful cross of hunger.”

Six Arrested In Multiple Police Operations In Kaduna

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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April 20, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Kaduna State Police Command has announced the arrest of six members of an abduction syndicate in series of operations carried out in some parts of the State.

A statement from the State Command’s spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, DSP, on Saturday April, 19, 2025, informed that one of the operations in Gida Abe led to the arrest of one, and the recovery of four fabricated AK-47 rifles from the hoodlums.

The Operation was said to be sequel to the receipt of credible intelligence on the criminal activities of some suspected kidnappers holding out in Gida Abe on Thursday April 17.

“Acting swiftly on the information, the Divisional police officer DPO of Tafa Division immediately mobilized a surveillance team to the location.

Consequently,the team successfully arrested one Isa Ibrahim ,a 30-year old .During interrogation the suspect confessed to being a member of a kidnapping gang operating in Kwara state.

The suspect also admitted to have relocated to Kaduna state after the arrest of some of his gang members in Kwara state,with the intent to establish a new syndicate” Hassan stated.

According to the police statement on the same Thursday, the DPO of Saminaka Police formation was said to have received actionable information regarding the presence of two members of a dreaded banditry organization in Lamido CommunityLere local council of the state.

“Acting promptly on the tip-off ,the DPO mobilized ,his patrol team to the location. The team successfully apprehended two suspects namely: Sani Liman from Unguwan Fa, Rami Kura and Murtala Magaji alias Seto ,from Dambata ,in Galadimawa village ,both in Kaura LGA”, the police noted.

“Similarly, on Friday ,April 18 ,two suspected gun runners were rounded up by operatives from the Ikera Police formation.

Their arrest followed the receipt of credible intelligence on their suspicious movements.

According to Hassan,all the suspects have confessed to being involved in several kidnappings activities in the state.

The Police spokesman assured that the suspects will be arraigned as soon investigations are concluded.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Command towards ensuring adequate protection of lives and properties of the people.

Easter: Nigerians Should Renew Faith – Reps Speaker Tajudeen

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Ayodele Oni

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April 19, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has congratulated Christians on the completion of Lent, emphasising that the celebration should herald a renewed season of sacrifice, love, and righteousness.

This was contained in a statement by Spokesman of the green chamber, Akin Rotimi Jnr, on Saturday

The statement reads : “The House of Representatives extends warm Easter greetings to all Christian faithful across Nigeria, as they commemorate this solemn and sacred season of the Christian calendar.

“Easter, the cornerstone of the Christian faith, speaks profoundly to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of trial, the restoration of hope after seasons of suffering, and the transformative power of sacrifice to redeem and uplift humanity. Importantly, the lessons of Easter are not only Christian values, but universal principles that enrich our shared national ethos.

“At this critical juncture in our nation’s journey, marked by both challenges and promise, the House of Representatives urges all Nigerians (regardless of faith) to draw inspiration from the deeper meanings of this season: love and forgiveness, compassion and sacrifice, forbearance, and the enduring belief that light will ultimately triumph over darkness.

“Though the government has the responsibility to ensure the safety and welfare of citizens, the people must exemplify Christ and his teachings on obedience to authorities and being one’s brother’s keeper.

“As Christians across the country mark Easter, I extend my heartfelt wishes for peace and renewed strength.

“I urge all Nigerians to embrace the spirit of unity and shared responsibility, and to join hands in building a just, secure, and inclusive country for present and future generations.

“The 10th Assembly of the House of Representatives reaffirms its commitment to the values at the heart of Easter: justice, equity, and the steadfast pursuit of a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of origin or creed, can live with dignity, safety, and hope.

“As families gather in worship and reflection, may this Easter season rekindle joy in our homes, inspire leadership at all levels that truly serves, and renew our collective faith in a federation marked by peace, equity, and shared prosperity.”

Ekiti Gov Oyebanji At Easter: Let’s Rethink Our Relationship

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Ayodele Oni

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April 19, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, in his message, congratulated Christians in the state and Nigeria on the occasion of this year’s Easter celebration.

The Governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is the essence of Easter, is a special gift from God to mankind, which should always be cherished.

Oyebanji congratulated the Christian faithful on the commemoration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, urging them to emulate Christ’s virtues of humility, perseverance and compassion.

He implored Ekiti residents and Nigerians in general, especially Christians to use the occasion of the Easter celebration to seek the face of God for continuous peace in the the and in the country in general.

The Governor urged the Christian faithful in the state to continue to live in peace and harmony with adherents of other religions, noting that good neighborliness, selflessness, and patience are among the lessons taught and exemplified by Jesus Christ.

Oyebanji used the occasion to appreciate the support of the Christian community in the state for their support for his administration noting that their prayers and cooperation have gone a long way in making the state record some

Significant achievements.

“I wish all the people of Ekiti State and Christians across the country and other parts of the world, a Happy Easter as we celebrate God’s greatest sacrifice to mankind.

“Events leading to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ were epochal in the annals of Christianity and humanity. They remind us of his virtues of sacrifice, love, harmony and peaceful coexistence among humanity.

“As Christians, this period offers us an opportunity to rethink our relationships as individuals, as communities and as a nation. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ typifies love, affection and tolerance.

“I therefore urge Christians to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by positively impacting the lives of neighbours, colleagues, associates, neighbours and family members.”

“We Shall Overcome” – Governor Fubara Assures The People At Easter

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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April 19, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has urged Rivers citizens and residents to keep hope alive.

Despite the State of emergency that swept him out office in the interim, the Governor also enjoined the people to continue to lend their support to the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

It will be recalled that the President had, on March 18, 2025, appointed Vice Admiral Ibok- Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, after proclaiming an initial six-month period of emergency rule.

The President also suspended Governor Fubara, his Deputy, and the members of the State House of Assembly.

But despite the widespread condemnations that have continued to trail the obviously unpopular action, as well as the growing agitation and restiveness within Rivers State, Governor Fubara expressed the hope of still delivering good governance to the people.

In an Esther message on Saturday, April 19, 2025, the suspended Governor enjoined the people never to despair nor allow the hardship or adversity to erode their love for, and closeness to God.

In the message which he personally signed, Fubara called for genuine reconciliation, and unity among the people, as exemplified by Christ who devoted much time comforting the afflicted, feeding the poor, and healing the broken-hearted.

“It is time to reaffirm our shared belief that peace shall overcome war, and that even shattered dreams can find new life in the light of the resurrection.

“This season renews our confidence that nothing, neither hardship nor adversity, nor even death, can separate us from the love of God in Christ. In Him, we remain victorious.

“I reiterate my unwavering commitment to delivering good governance to the resilient and dignified people of Rivers state.

“Therefore, I call on the good people of Rivers state to continue to support, and align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of our dear President, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while looking forward to a better tomorrow.

“Let us not lose sight of our collective strength. The transformation we all desire is achievable when we act together as one people under God, committed to peace, unity and progress”, Fubara stated.

“Fubara Bribed NBA With N300m To Back Him” – Wike

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Adesina Soyooye

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April 19, 2025

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By Adesina Soyooye

Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has alleged that the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, is backing suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, because the Governor bribed the Association.

Wike made this allegation on Thursday when he addressed some Journalists in his office.

The allegation stemmed from the demand by the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas, rtd, that the NBA returns the N300m given to it by the State to host the Association’s Annual Conference.

The NBA has granted the State the hosting right for the 2025 Annual Conference but withdrew it last week over the suspension of democratically elected officials – Governor Fubara, his Deputy, Dr Ngozi Ordu, Members of the House of Assembly – and the appointment of a Sole Administrator who was the Chief of Naval Staff, by President Bola Tinubu.

The NBA had condemned the declaration of a State of Emergency in the State by President Tinubu on 18 March, 2025, and asked the President to reinstate the democratically elected officials of Rivers. The Association had, also, earlier, condemned the sacking of elected Local Council Chairmen and Councilors by the Supreme Court.

For withdrawing the hosting rights, and giving same to Enugu State, the Rivers State Government asked the NBA to return the N300m. But it is a demand the NBA is not prepared to grant.

In a response, the NBA argued that the money given the Association by the Fubara Government was not for hosting rights but a gift just as other States and Organizations had given it to help with sponsorship.

Speaking to Journalists in his office, Wike, himself, a member of the NBA, said Ibas has exposed the NBA. But for the withdrawal of the hosting rights, and the demand by Ibas, Wike said, nobody would have known of the N300m to NBA. He asked the NBA to return the money to the Rivers State Government.

Wike submitted that Fubara bribed the Association with the sum of N300m, and said that explains the NBA’s condemnation of the State of Emergency and the sack of Local Council Officials. Worse, Wike said, the money was not appropriated.

Reminded that he did the same a couple of times when he was the Governor of the State, Wike said the monies he gave out were captured in his budgets as “grants”.

Among the several millions Wike gave out include the N500 million he gave to the Benue State Government under his friend, former Governor Samuel Ortom, the N300m he gave to the Lagos State Association of Wives of Government Officials and much more.

“This is like the kettle calling the pot black”, noted a Rivers State Elder.

Update: One Dies 12 Rescued From Rubbles Of Collapsed Building

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Akinwale Kasali

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April 19, 2025

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Equal Rights Resturant Buidling Collpased in Lagos

By Akinwale Kasali

One person has been confirmed dead at the collapsed building at 9, Oremeta Street, Ojodu. The building houses Equal Rights Restaurant.

The person confirmed to dead is an Occupant of the three-storey building. 12 others were rescued by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, from where they were trapped under the rubbles.

The rescued victims include staff of the Equal Right Restaurant who were inside the building when it caved in.

The body was recovered and the others were rescued by the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, LASEMA and others after the ill-fated building under construction caved in on them.

The Lagos State Government is yet to issue a statement on the ill fated incident.

More details Later.

Reps Speaker, Abass, Doles Out N5 Billion To 30,000 Students In North West

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Ayodele Oni

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April 19, 2025

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Abbas Tajudeen - Speaker House of Representatives

By Ayodele Oni

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, disbursed a total of N5 billion as scholarships to 30,000 students from the North-West geopolitical zone, studying at various tertiary institutions.

Out of 30,000 beneficiaries, 7,000 were drawn from Kaduna State, while the rest were from the six remaining states from the North West.

Spokesman of the Speaker, Musa Abdullahi Krishi in a statement on Saturday stated that the scholarship ranges from N200,000 to N800,000 depending on the students’ courses of study.

The statement added that the scholarship is to facilitate the students’ tuition fees, and the provision of books and stipends.

Beneficiaries were drawn from the seven north-western states of Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara.

The disbursement was facilitated through the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in collaboration with Microvis Micro Finance Bank.

This is even as the Speaker announced the establishment of a modern orphanage in Zaria, which he said is “a project that is very close to my soul.”

Speaking at the occasion, Abbas, described the event as “an ambitious education intervention programme that will touch thousands of lives across the North-West geopolitical zone, noting that it is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.

“This is an unprecedented initiative in our region’s history. These scholarships will benefit bright young men and women from Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara states, every corner of the North-West.

“This is a truly grand endeavour, covering all seven states of our zone and uniting us in the pursuit of knowledge and progress.

“What makes this scholarship programme special is not just its scale, but its focus. We are directing support to students pursuing courses in critical fields like Medicine, Engineering, Law, and Technology, among others.

“By doing so, we are investing in Nigeria’s future doctors, engineers, lawyers, and innovators. Our nation urgently needs more professionals in these fields.”

On the modern orphanage, the Speaker said: “In our community-driven efforts, we could not forget the most vulnerable among us: the orphans and abandoned children.

“We will construct and equip an orphanage that will provide shelter, education, and love to children who have no parents or guardians.

“The orphanage will not merely be a building; it will symbolise our collective compassion. It is said that in Zaria, every child has a home. These children will have access to education and healthcare, and a caring environment to grow up in so that they too can have hope for a bright future.”

Let’s Use Easter Time To Pray For Compassionate Leaders – Obi

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The Source

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April 19, 2025

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The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 poll, Peter Obi, has asked Nigerian Christians to use the Easter period to pray for Compassionate leaders who will share in their pains.

Obi, in an Easter message on Saturday, said that Compassionate leaders always think of the people in the consequences of their actions and inactions.

“At Easter, what Christians celebrate is the huge sacrifice Jesus Christ made for mankind.

“Therefore, there is no better time to pray for tender-hearted and caring leaders for our country than at Easter when we saw in Jesus a remarkable, compassionate leader.

Obi noted that “what is apparent in Nigeria today as insecurity and myriads of problems engulf the land is a visible abdication of responsibility by insensitive and indifferent leaders.

Nigeria deserves better leadership than they are getting to turn the natural and human capital gifts from God to the benefit of the populace.

Finally, Obi urged fellow Nigerians and obedient families across the globe never to despair in the face of any tribulations because our Redeemer is living and active, assuring us that a New Nigeria is possible.

Happy Easter.