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  By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  Yobe South Senator Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai has outlined his development agenda for the district, prioritizing infrastructure, youth empowerment, and education while calling for political unity to sustain progress. Speaking during a press briefing, the All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker highlighted completed and ongoing projects aimed at improving living standards across the senatorial zone.  He reiterated his commitment to delivering visible outcomes for constituents. "Our focus remains on delivering tangible projects that directly improve living conditions and create opportunities for our people," Senator Bomai stated. Key achievements cited include the construction of roads and drainage systems, improved access to clean water, and installation of solar streetlights to boost safety in communities. Beyond infrastructure, the senator emphasized investments in human capital, including skills acquisition programs for youth and t...

By Yusuf A Yusuf Damaturu The Youth Leaders Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe State has appealed to the party's top leadership to bring all independent support groups under central oversight to prevent internal divisions. Following a meeting in Damaturu on Monday, the forum comprising youth leaders from all 17 local government areas issued a direct appeal to State Governor and APC Leader Mai Mala Buni and State Party Chairman Alhaji Mohammad Gadaka. The meeting,chaired by State APC Youth Leader Babangida Adamu Jajere, acknowledged the positive growth in pro-APC support groups but emphasized the risks of their operating autonomously. "The rise of various support groups reflects growing enthusiasm for our party.However, their continued operation without formal integration into the party’s official structure could lead to conflict and fragmentation,"the forum stated. Citing the APC National Secretariat model where support groups ope...

By Yusuf A Yusuf Damaturu The Spotlight for Transparency and Accountability has officially launched "Bayani AI," an artificial intelligence platform designed to demystify government finances and empower citizens at the grassroots level. Spotlight Executive Director, Mu'azu Alhaji Modu, announced the launch during the weekend in Damaturu, explaining that "Bayani," a Hausa word meaning "information," is an AI solution focused squarely on Nigeria's 774 local governments. According to him, this initiative comes in the wake of the Supreme Court's July 2024 ruling granting full financial autonomy to local governments—a decision hampered by what Modu described as a systemic lack of capacity to manage these new resources. He outlined the platform's mission; "We came up with an AI system that supports citizen journalists and reformers by giving them access to real-time information on budget allocations, projects, and the earnings of...

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  In a landmark initiative to harness local talent for civic good, the Spotlight for Transparency and Accountability Initiative, in collaboration with the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), has concluded the first-ever Civic Innovation Hackathon for Northeast Nigeria. The event which took place in Damaturu, powered by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund with support from the MacArthur Foundation,Ford Foundation, and Luminate, showcased young tech pioneers developing solutions to strengthen democracy and governance in the region. Spotlight’s Executive Director, Mu’azu Alhaji Modu explained the hackathon served as the climax of Dr. Kole Shettima’s Innovation and Democracy Challenge. He detailed the rigorous journey from an initial pool of 1,200 applicants down to 12 finalists, who underwent a 12-week acceleration program."These young people have amazing ideas to strengthen democracy but lacked the platform and resources to sca...

By Yusuf A Yusuf,Damaturu The Yobe State Government has commenced the disbursement of domestic scholarships and bursaries for the 2025/2026 academic session, featuring a landmark 100% increase in financial aid for all beneficiaries. Approved by Governor Mai Mala Buni, the initiative will directly benefit 28,346 indigenes studying in tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Scholarship Board (YSSB), Dr. Kagu Abubakar, officially flagged off the exercise in Damaturu on behalf of the state government. Dr. Kagu announced that Governor Buni has authorized a full doubling of all previous scholarship rates.Under the new structure, Postgraduate (PGDE, Masters, PhD) students will receive ₦110,000 (up from ₦55,000). "Undergraduate students will receive ₦46,000 (up from ₦23,000), and HND, NCE & National Diploma students will receive ₦34,000 (up from ₦17,000). "Students in other Diploma and Certificate programmes will rec...

By Alhaji Yusuf, Damaturu The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has issued a stark warning to the new Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, stating he must achieve "six years' worth of progress in less than one year" to meet national expectations and secure the administration's political future. In a press statement by the KACRAN National President,Hon.Khalil Mohammed Bello,framed General Musa's appointment as a race against time, linking his performance directly to the electoral prospects of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and many governors in the 2027 elections. "The Minister faces a unique challenge never before seen: a critically short timeline," the statement read, noting that with election campaigns effectively starting in 2026, he has a narrow window to demonstrate results. KACRAN warned that failure to drastically reduce insecurity could lead to electoral difficulties similar to those of the past. To suc...

We wish to inform the general public and all stakeholders that the official launch of S-MAHII Application and S-MAHII Token Wallet, which is initially scheduled for the end of this year, has been postponed to early next year. This is due to a special request from high-level foreign guests and representatives of the United Nations, who requested additional time to finalize collaborative arrangements with us and to ensure their full participation. Similarly, some embassies and security agencies we are partnering with are currently in the final stages of review and approval of our system.  In view of the above, we find it necessary to delay the event to ensure a successful, well-organized, and historic launch. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appeals for the understanding of the public, also our partners, and those interested in this event.  Once all consultations with the relevant authorities are concluded a new date and details of the ...

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  The Yobe State Government has pledged to allocate permanent business sites for the Potiskum Grocery Sellers Association and the Potiskum Rice Millers Association, a move expected to boost commerce, create jobs, and improve urban planning. The announcement was made during a meeting at the Damaturu Government House, where a delegation from the associations was received by Deputy Governor Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, representing Governor Mai Mala Buni. Governor Buni, through his deputy, commended the groups for their critical role in human capital development and job creation across the state.  He reiterated the administration’s policy of treating business associations as essential partners in driving Yobe’s economic growth. The delegation, led by Alhaji Umaru Aljan, Chairman of the Hausa-Fulani Association in Potiskum, expressed deep appreciation for the government’s inclusive leadership and sustained dialogue with key economic se...

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  In a vibrant celebration of culture and community, the Ngizim people were commended for their longstanding legacy of peace and unity during the 2025 World Ngizim Day Celebration, held at the palace of the Mai Potiskum. Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, delivered a powerful message urging the Ngizim community to sustain their enviable heritage of respect, peace, unity, and progress. The Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Empowerment and Employment, Alhaji Aji Yarima Bularafa, reaffirmed his administration's deep commitment to promoting cultural identity and social harmony across the state. Similarly,the Governor announced a generous donation of ₦20 million to ensure the success of the grand occasion, underscoring the government's investment in cultural initiatives. The event, hosted by the Mai Potiskum, Alhaji Umaru Bubaram Ibn Wuriwa Bauya, was a gathering of dignitaries, traditional...

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  Prominent philanthropist Kashim Musa Tumsa has pledged to continue his significant investments in the welfare of Yobe State, with a primary focus on education, youth empowerment, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. Speaking en route to the presentation of the 2026 Yobe State budget, Tumsa stated his efforts are aimed at uplifting communities and supporting the state government's developmental goals. He emphasized that education remains his top priority, citing it as the foundation for sustainable growth. Tumsa promised to expand his existing interventions, which include scholarships, school rehabilitation, and learning materials, particularly to rural communities. Beyond education, he highlighted his commitment to supporting healthcare delivery and youth entrepreneurship programs, aligning his work with the state's vision for economic recovery. Daily Beacon Correspondent reports that Tumsa's commitment was met with a mass...

The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has publicly called on the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to prioritize livestock development in its future plans, stating that the region's pastoralists have been largely excluded from post-insurgency recovery efforts. While acknowledging the NEDC's tireless efforts in rebuilding critical infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and roads, KACRAN delivered a stark critique, arguing that its members have received minimal direct benefits from the commission's projects. In a statement on Friday ,the association's National President,Hon. Khalil Mohd Bello, emphasized that pastoralist communities have disproportionately suffered from the insurgency. He described it as critical and shocking that these communities, who live and work in the conflict-ridden rural areas, remain at the receiving end of programmes focused on urban development. “Pastoralists operate primarily in the bushes, the epic...

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  In a powerful display of political reciprocity, the Women Progressive Elegant Worldwide group has publicly hailed Governor Mai Mala Buni for fulfilling his campaign promise by integrating their members into key positions within his administration. The group's celebration unfolded during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Damaturu, where they expressed their gratitude for what they termed a landmark inclusion drive. "You have given us a seat at the table,” said Hajiya Khaltum Abdullahi Usman,the group's State Coordinator.  She highlighted that their members have been appointed to strategic roles as advisors, liaison officers, and focal persons across the state.  "These appointments are a testament to your commitment to recognizing the contributions of women. This is what recognition looks like." Hajiya Usman further pledged the group's "unwavering support" for the present administration thr...

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  Emirs of Bade Mai Abubakar Umar Suleiman II and Emir of Machina Mai Bashir Albishir Bukar Machinama both from Yobe State have been nominated for the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) National Meritorious Service Award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to sports growth and development in their domains and beyond. The Media and Publicity Committee of SWAN@60 disclosed this in a Statement made available on Monday. The Statement which was signed by Chimezie Anaso and Hamboodewn Orsa, Chairman and Secretary respectively said, the Emirs' exceptional service, dedication, and far-reaching contributions to sports development in Yobe State and beyond earned them the awards. The letter of nomination said Emir of Bade's contributed through playing and sponsoring badminton tournaments at local, national, and international levels, winning numerous championships and providing financial assistance to SWAN and members as patro...

By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu  In a landmark event, Dr. Abubakar Garba Iliya, the Executive Director of Administration and Finance for the North East Development Commission (NEDC), was unanimously elected as the National President of the Government Secondary School Damaturu Old Students Association (DOSA). His unopposed election took place during the association's 4th Congress, held from October 3rd to 5th, which was recorded as the largest and most successful gathering in DOSA's history, attracting over 300 distinguished alumni. A central achievement celebrated at the congress was the inauguration of a new multi-purpose hall for the school,now known as the Government Girls College Damaturu.Dr. Iliya underscored the association's commitment to giving back to their alma mater. "The main reason we initiated this project was to give back to society and to the school," Dr. Iliya stated. "This hall, constructed through the NEDC, has a capacity for 450 peo...

By Yusuf A.Yusuf, Damaturu In a significant step to bolster community-led peace efforts, the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) Network officially launched its Yobe State chapter.  The launch followed a high-level, one-day advocacy workshop focused on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE), which brought together key stakeholders to harmonize strategies against radical ideologies. The workshop served as a crucial platform for collaboration, uniting representatives from the Yobe State Ministry of Justice, Ministries of Women Affairs and Youth & Sports, the military, police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), vigilante groups, civil society organizations, and the media. Speaking at the event, the Yobe State Attorney General, and commissioner of Justice, Barrister Sale Samanja,represented by the Director of Public Prosecution, Barrister Abdullahi Yusuf, endorsed the initiative. “...

By Yusuf A Yusuf,Damaturu  Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has during the weekend paid an inspection visit to the Damaturu Flyover and Underpass, and the Damaturu-Gambir road projects under construction. The Governor was accompanied on the inspection tour by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana; Commissioners for Works, Engr. Umar Dudaye, and Finance, Alh. Mohammed Abacha; the Secretary to the State Government, Baba Malam Wali; NEDC Executive Director, Dr. Garba Iliya; Special Advisers on Special Duties and Religious Affairs; and other top government officials. At the Flyover and Underpass project, Gov. Buni expressed satisfaction with the quality and speed of work. "I am happy with the quality and speed of work on the project. The contractors have so far lived up to expectation, with strict adherence to the contractual agreements. "When completed, this will greatly check the problem of congestion here at the city center as well as the menace of floodwat...

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Yobe State Council, is celebrating a major international victory by three of the state's young women. Nafisa Abdullah Aminu, Rukayya Muhammad Fema, and Hadiza Kashim Kalli have been announced as winners of a global competition, an achievement the NUJ calls "a shining example of excellence." The union credited the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led administration for creating an environment where youth can succeed globally. A statement declared, "NUJ Yobe is proud of you!" to the three winners.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in partnership with Nigerian emergency management agencies, conducted a full-scale simulation exercise on Monday to test a new Mass Fatality Response Plan, aiming to enhance the country's preparedness for large-scale tragic events. The exercise, organized in collaboration with the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), was designed to train frontline responders in managing mass casualty incidents. In a statement,Rashid Hassan, the ICRC Head of Sub-delegation in Damaturu,highlighted the urgent need for such a plan. He noted that Nigeria has faced a rising number of mass fatalities stemming not only from conflict but also from disasters like explosions, floods, building collapses, and epidemics. "These events have left families grieving, communities devastated, and entire regions in mourning," Hassan said. Hassan explained that a key humanitarian goal...

By Yusuf A. Yusuf, Damaturu The Network of Yobe Civil Society Organizations (NYCSO) officially ushered in a new era of leadership on Thursday with the inauguration of its newly elected executive committee. The swearing-in ceremony, which had the theme ,"Building on Legacy,Forging a New Future," was held in Damaturu and formally commenced the team's three-year mandate to steer the affairs of the prominent coalition. The incoming officials took an oath of office, administered by Chief Magistrate,Mamman Shettima, pledging to uphold the values of the organization and work diligently towards its objectives of promoting good governance,civic engagement,and sustainable development across Yobe State. In his inaugural address,the newly elected Chairperson, Muhammad Baba Kucici,pledged to dedicate his energy, passion,and commitment to serving this collective vision. He explained that, their journey to this moment began with an acknowledgement of those who paved the way....

By Alhaji Yusuf, Damaturu The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has lauded the North East Development Commission (NEDC), describing it as "a blessing" for its transformative impact on a region recovering from insurgency. The declaration was made in a statement on Monday by KACRAN's National President, Hon. Khalil Mohammed Bello, following a comprehensive evaluation of the commission's work. The association, which represents pastoralists, acknowledged its initial doubts about the NEDC's potential for success, given the overwhelming scale of destruction and the poor track record of previous federal agencies. According to the KACRAN President,Hon.Khalil Bello, NEDC has "exceeded all expectations," surpassing initial skepticism with its remarkable performance. The commendation is grounded in a list of tangible achievements such as infrastructure revolution, enhanced security, humanitarian support, and inclusive developmen...

S-Mahi Global Services Ltd has officially launched a groundbreaking online employment platform designed to connect Nigerian job seekers with significant local and international opportunities. This initiative marks a strategic effort to combat unemployment by leveraging technology and a widespread agent network across the country. The platform will establish a physical presence in all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with six agents recruited per LGA to manage a dedicated website and provide direct support to community members. This structure ensures that job opportunities reach every corner of Nigeria, from urban centers to rural communities. The platform is inclusive, offering registration to all qualified Nigerians from SSCE holders up to Professors. Successful applicants will be connected with top-tier companies, institutions, and NGOs both within Nigeria and abroad. An initial 4,644 job openings have been announced in the first phase, with more opportunities to be rolled out nati...