Fame News

BADARU COMMISERATES WITH GOV. ZULUM OVER MAIDUGURI FLOOD

By Mati Ali

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has extended his heartfelt sympathy to the Governor of Borno State Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, mni, and the people of Borno State, following the devastating floods that have engulfed parts of Maiduguri, the state capital.

The floods have caused significant damage to properties and displaced many residents, adding to the challenges already faced by the state.

“My heartfelt sympathy goes to the people and government of Borno State at this trying period that flood has wrecked havoc in the state caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam”.

“I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate flooding in Maiduguri, which has displaced families and caused untold hardship to the people of this great city.

My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” said Mohammed Badaru.

“I want to commend His Excellency Governor Zulum for the quick response and decisive actions taken to alleviate the suffering of the affected residents.

The resilience of the Borno people in the face of adversity is remarkable, and I have no doubt that under Governor Zulum’s leadership, Maiduguri will recover swiftly from this disaster,” the Minister remarked.

Mati Ali is the Personal Assistant
Media and Publicity to the Hon. Minister

“My heartfelt sympathy goes to the people and government of Borno State at this trying period that flood has wrecked havoc in the state caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam”.
Defence Minister

PHOTO NEWS

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni toured some selected drone manufacturing companies during the official visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to China.

The Honourable Minister was part of the Nigerian delegation who accompanied Mr President to China.

The purpose of the tour was to afford the Minister the opportunity of seeing the facilities of the companies that will further boost DICON’S capabilities in the production of Military Equipment and Hardware in Nigeria.

Mati Ali.
PA Media and Publicity to the Hon. Minister of Defence.
September-7-2024

Open Letter to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu: Fuel Price Hike In Nigeria, Scarcity, Solutions and Way Forward

By Abbati Bako,bsis,psc,UK

Global economic policies differ between advanced and emerging nations. Many African leaders lack a global perspective, hindering economic growth. The 1938 and 2008 economic meltdowns highlighted the need for tailored solutions for emerging economies. The Washington Consensus and Beijing Consensus offer frameworks for economic reform (although Washington Consensus of 1989 is still debatable). While some criticize these prescriptions, nations like Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and Kenya seem to have successfully implemented reforms. Although in Kenya there are still problems.

Nigeria’s economic reforms are ongoing, despite challenges but care must be taken to avoid the truncation of the 25 years of hard earned democratic system. The country must adopt policies to boost its economy, such as tax reform, privatization, protection of intellectual property, diversification of economy, removal of subsidies and investments in human capital financing free primary and secondary education. The global economic interplay is crucial, with international trade and services driving growth. Nigeria’s reliance on oil exports hinders its economic progress. Countries such as Brazil, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia and many emerging nations have more reliance on agrarian economic growth and development than reliance on oil. The oil market will be depleted in the years to come. The year 2030 is crucial to oil dependent nations.

*Comparative Analysis of Fuel Scarcity and Price Hike—

The fuel price hike and scarcity in Nigeria are symptoms of a larger economic problem. The country’s reliance on oil exports and lack of diversification have made it vulnerable to global market fluctuations. To address this, Nigeria must invest in alternative energy sources, promote local industries, and enhance its trade and services sector. Otherwise, the economic precarity, meltdown and stagflation will continue till eternity.

Historical Context of Fuel Scarcity in Nigeria-

Fuel scarcity has been a recurring issue in Nigeria, with past governments implementing various solutions with limited success. The current administration’s efforts to address the issue are not enough, but more needs to be done to ensure sustainable solutions. The Dangote’s refinery must be given maximum support by the current Tinubu’s government with a view to reduce the importation of refined oil into the country and save foreign reserves for the country.

Current State of Fuel Scarcity and Price Hike

The recent fuel price hike has exacerbated the scarcity, causing widespread hardship, inflation, economic aridity and precarity for Nigerians. The government must take urgent action to address the issue, including:

1. Diversifying the economy to reduce reliance on oil exports
2. Investing in alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind power
3. Enhancing local refining capacity to reduce dependence on imports
4. Implementing effective price control measures to protect consumers
5. Promoting transparency and accountability in the oil sector
6. And petrol price must not exceed #500.00 per liter
7. This will definitely make the current government more popular and otherwise the election year 2027 will be crucial for the party APC and the President.

Way Forward

To achieve sustainable economic growth, Nigeria must adopt a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of fuel scarcity and price hikes. This includes:

1. Developing a robust economic diversification strategy
2. Investing in human capital and infrastructure development
3. Enhancing trade and services sector growth
4. Promoting good governance and transparency in the oil sector
5. Encouraging private sector participation in the economy
6. To invite more foreign direct investments (FDI) into the country.

To address the fuel price hike and scarcity, the Nigerian government should consider the following recommendations ASAP

1. Establish a robust fuel price regulatory framework to protect consumers and ensure transparency.
2. Invest in alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce dependence on oil.
3. Enhance local refining capacity to reduce imports and promote energy security.
4. Implement effective tax reform measures to boost revenue and reduce reliance on oil exports.
5. Promote transparency and accountability in the oil sector through regular audits and public disclosure.
6. Encourage private sector participation in the economy through incentives and investment-friendly policies.
7. Develop a comprehensive economic diversification strategy to reduce reliance on oil exports.
8. Invest in human capital development through education and skills training programs.
9. Enhance trade and services sector growth through infrastructure development and investment incentives.
10. Foster good governance and transparency in the oil sector through institutional reforms and capacity building.

To ensure effective implementation of these recommendations, the Nigerian government should:

1. Establish a high-level task force to oversee the implementation process.
2. Set clear timelines and milestones for each recommendation.
3. Allocate necessary resources and funding to support implementation.
4. Engage stakeholders, including civil society, private sector, and international partners, to ensure broad support and participation.
5. Monitor progress regularly and make adjustments as needed.

*Conclusion

The fuel price hike and scarcity in Nigeria are complex issues that require a comprehensive and sustainable solution. By addressing the root causes and implementing effective policies, Nigeria can achieve economic growth and prosperity for its citizens. The recommendations outlined above provide a roadmap for addressing these challenges and promoting sustainable economic development in Nigeria.

Dr. Abbati Bako,Political Strategy and Communications Consultant, IPRC, Nigeria

End Bad Governance: KNSG Judicial Commission of Inquiry Inaugurates Meeting, Conducts On-Site Visit

By Aminu Bello Sani

Kano State Panel of Inquiry, established to investigate the perpetrators and sponsors of the recent violent protest in Kano, has convened its inaugural meeting, marking the commencement of its proceedings. The Panel also conducted an on-site visit to the State High Court and Printing Press to gather firsthand information.

Chairman of the Panel, Justice Lawan Wada Mohmoud (Retired.), stated that the Panel will conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation to uncover the facts surrounding the violent protest and identify those responsible.

He said the Panel’s work will include gathering evidence, hearing testimonies, and examining the circumstances leading up to and during the protest as well as damages incurred.

It can be recall that on Monday 2nd September, Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf established the panel to investigate the sponsors who turned the ” End Bad Governance protests into violence, ensure accountability, and deliver Justice to those affected by the violence.

Justice Wada assured that the Panel’s findings and recommendations will be made public upon completion of the investigation.

He then appealed for support from all stakeholders to support the Commission with the relevant evidence and facts to achieve the Panel’s goals and prevent future occurrences, while soliciting the support of the media to be objective and fair in reporting the Commission’s proceedings.

Aminu Bello Sani is the Media Assistant to the Committee.

KNSG to train 100 members of the Kannywood industry on film making and business – El- Mustapha

By Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman

The Executive Secretary Kano State Censorship Board Alh. Abba El-mustapha reiterated the commitments of the administration of Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf to equip kannywood films industry with modern techniques in films making.

Abba El-Mustapha stated this while presenting a 100 forms of applications to the Kannywood industry members of a two-month training program on film making and business, which will be facilitated by the Kano State Films Institute.

Abba El-mustapha explained that the initiative is part of an ongoing efforts of Kano State government to enhance the skills of Kannywood industry members, equipping them with modern film making techniques, ethical standards, and business acumen to foster self-reliance.

He further maintained that the program is aims to provide participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed in the evolving film industry.

He urged all the participants to seize this valuable opportunity provided to them by the Kano State government, emphasizing the importance of making the training to advance their careers and contribute to the growth of the local film industry.

“The goal of this training is to acquaint our film makers with modern practices and ethical standards, empowering them to become self-reliant and successful in their careers,” said the ES, Abba El-mustapha.

He finally appreciated the overwhelming support and cooperation from the government in implementing the program and other initiatives that benefit the industry.

In his speech chairman of the Kano State Guild of Artists, Malam Alhassan Kwalle, expressed deep gratitude to the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf for his commitment to enhancing the industry in state.”We are grateful to Governor Yusuf for considering us worthy of this opportunity to enhance our skills. And with the training provided, we are confident that our members will be able to compete with their counterparts worldwide. We pledge our full support and cooperation to ensure the success of this program.

“The goal of this training is to acquaint our film makers with modern practices and ethical standards, empowering them to become self-reliant and successful in their careers,”
Abba El-Mustapha

KANO NUJ CHAIRMAN DEDERI BAGS 2024 HAJJ BEST REPORTER OF THE YEAR

Comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi Kano NUJ Chairman

By Our Correspondent

Independent Hajj Reporters have nominated and conferred the award of Best Reporter of the year 2024 on youthful ,exuberant and vibrant Chairman of the Kano State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi.

In his remarks , during 2024 Hajj lecture and awards held at National Mosque, Abuja, the National Coordinator of the outfit, Comrade Ibrahim Muhammad said, the choice of Comrade Dederi was based on how he exalted himself among his peers during the recent Hajj Exercise.

“Comrade Dederi without mincing word leads while others follow in terms of executing his primary responsibility thus became an envy of all, adding that, righteously, the kano NUJ boss has been wrting press releases and knowing or unknowingly publishing numerous accurate and unbiased stories which unarguably helped in boosting the Board’s image likewise his good name”, says the the National Coordinator.

The National Coordinator further stated that, “Undoubtedly, the scintillating work of Kano Pilgrims welfare board’s spoke person is second to none in the field of journalism it is our fervent hope he will remain tireless in that regard”.

Meanwhile, the State Council of the Nigeria Union union of Journalists has rejoiced with the celebrant over the milestone and prayed for Allah blessings and continue guidance to the number one journalist in kano state.

Abubakar Shehu Kwaru
Secretary,
NUJ, Kano council

“Undoubtedly, the scintillating work of Kano Pilgrims welfare board’s spoke person is second to none in the field of journalism it is our fervent hope he will remain tireless in that regard”
Comrade Ibrahim Muhammad The National Coordinator Independent Hajj Reporters

Management of Radio Kano Pays Courtesy Visit to Emir of Gaya’s Palace

By Auwalu Musa Yola

The Management of Radio Kano, led by Station’s Manager, Comrade Abubakar Adamu Rano,today paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Emir of Gaya, Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulqadir.

In his remarks the Manager Director Comrade Abubakar Adamu Rano said they were at the palace to seek for the Emir blessing and to strengthen the relationship between Radio Kano and the Emirate, as well as explore opportunities for collaboration in promoting the cultural and social development of the region.

Comrade Abubakar Adamu Rano highlights some of the achievements recorded so far,when he was acting Manager Director of the station ,which includes digitalizing the station, expending the transmission section among others .

Comrade Rano thanked the emir for his hospitality and assured him of Radio Kano’s continued support in promoting the emirate’s activities and initiatives.

Responding the Royal Highness Dr Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulqadir expressed his appreciation for Radio Kano’s commitment for broadcasting programs that promote peace, unity, drugs abuse, education among others.

Dr Aliyu Ibrahim then commended the station’s efforts in showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the State and nation at large.

Kano State Advances Toward Sustainable Health Development

By Farouk Isa

In a bid to maintain the steady supply of qualitative and affordable drugs and other medical supplies as a part of a coordinated efforts to generally enhance healthcare service delivery at all medical facilities throughout the state, the Kano State Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency (DMCSA) has organized a comprehensive 6-day tender evaluation workshop.

The meeting, which is currently taking place in Kaduna, aims to review the bid proposals concerning the procument of medical supplies for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This evaluation process involves a panel of experts from various fields, including pharmacy, medical science, public procurement, and accounting and finance.

Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, the Commissioner State Ministry of Health said during the tender bid opening, which took place on Tuesday in Kano, the DMCSA has received 83 bids from pharmaceutical companies who offered to supply the organization with health commodities for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

The Commissioner then commended Pharm. Gali, the Director-General DMCSA,for organizing the workshop and the development partners, especially Nutrition International, FAcE-PaM, and UKAid, for complementing the efforts of the State Government to strengthen the health sector.

In his opening remark, Pharm. Gali Sule spoke at length on the importance of transparency and fairness embedded in the tender evaluation process, pledging that the present administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is fully committed to ensure that Kano state residents get the best and affordable healthcare services.

According to the DG, the tendering process is the best global practice that promotes transparency, stressing that the tender evaluation is a critical process in procurement and it involves the assessment of bids submitted by suppliers, and the DMCSA would ensure it selects the most suitable supplier that meets its needs and specifications.

“Effective tender evaluation is vital for achieving value for money, maintaining quality standards, and minimizing risks associated with procurement. It also fosters trust among the bidders, as we just conducted a transparent bid opening ceremony a few days ago,” Pharm Gali Sule observed.

“This is the 10th tender in the history of the DMCSA and it is a process the agency adopted that would help it to achieve the set goals and objectives, particularly the provision of affordable and qualitative drugs to the teeming populace of the state.

“All stakeholders in the healthcare sector were invited to come to participate in the evaluation of the tender bid documents so that we would have a transparent process at the end of the exercise,” he concluded.

Delivering the welcome address, Pharm.kamilu Mudi Salisu, the Director Pharmaceutical Services at State Ministry of Health, who is also the Chairman State Sustainable Health Commodity Supply Systems (SSHCSS) Committee, has called on the participants of the workshop to be dedicated in order to achieve the desired goals of the conference.

On his submission, Pharm. Abdul’aziz Hamisu, the consultant for the project, said the panel would utilize a scoring system that would assess proposals based on criteria such as cost-effectiveness, quality, compliance, and delivery schedule, among others.

The participants, he further noted, would systematically analyze and thoroughly assess each bid for compliance with submission requirements. After a thorough examination, however, the panel will disqualify any bids that fail to meet the mandatory criteria. Based on the scores, the committee will recommend the successful bidders and provide feedback to unsuccessful ones, as well.

“Effective tender evaluation is vital for achieving value for money, maintaining quality standards, and minimizing risks associated with procurement. It also fosters trust among the bidders, as we just conducted a transparent bid opening ceremony a few days ago,”
Pharm Gali Sule DG DMCSA

KNSG Organizes A 2- Day Workshop On MTEF For The Fiscal Years 2025-2027

By Aisha Iliasu Musa.

The Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for the fiscal years 2025-2027 lays out the economic and fiscal analysis necessary for understanding the budget planning process for 2025.

The Commissioner of the Ministry of Planning and Budget, Hon. Musa Suleiman Shanono, emphasized the importance of the MTEF in sensitizing participants regarding budget planning and assessing the 2024 half-year budget performance in terms of revenue generation and expenditure.

The commissioner further identified critical factors affecting the budget process for effective implementation.

Shanono made these remarks during the opening day of the workshop held from the 29th to the 31st of August 2024 at Hotel Seventeen in Kaduna State.

The Commissioner underlined that the 2025-2027 MTEF is a planning tool focused on estimating government aggregate resources, ensuring allocations to meet economic and social needs, evaluating budget performance over time, and highlighting key factors influencing implementation relating to government revenue and expenditure.

The Kano State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore, urged the participants, especially those from revenue-generating MDAs and other stakeholders, to enhance their efforts to improve revenue generation, adding that, “The current administration is dedicated to providing commendable projects and programs for the state’s growth and development.

He further extends his gratitude to the state government, the Head of Service, members of the executive council, members of the civil service, permanent secretaries, directors, and development partners for their participation in the workshop.

The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, urged the State Ministry of Planning and Budget and stakeholders to maximize the Kano State Public Financial Management Law as a guide for the budget exercise and other related processes.

The Head of Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, highlighted that the budget mark the second annual budget under the leadership of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, hajiya lauratu Ado diso outlined the workshop’s objectives to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the exercise and its importance in the budget planning process.

Papers were presented during the program, which includes the following:

– 2024 half-year budget performance report (FAAC, IGR, recurrent and capital expenditure) by yakubu sabiu garin danga
Overview of medium term expenditure framework, presentation of 2025-2027 MTEF, sector allocations budget ceilings by Abbas iliyasu karaye

A’isha Iliasu Musa
Public Relations officer
Ministry of Planning and Budget

USAID Commends KSCHMA For The Enrollment of PLHIV Into The Scheme

By Muhammad Nura Yusuf

Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency has enrolled over 2,400 vulnerable people living with HIV under its equity programme.

The statement was made by the Executive Secretary of the Agency Dr, Rahila Aliyu Mukhtar during the USAID delegation visit to KSCHMA as part of their 3-day working visit to Kano State.

The Agency has collaborated with USAID Local Health System Sustainability project (LHSS), Kano State Agency for the Control of Aids KSACA and Network of People living With HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN) to ensure the inclusion of individuals living with HIV in Contributory healthcare scheme.

In her welcome address the Executive Secretary KSCHMA Dr. Rahila Aliyu Mukhtar appreciated the delegation for their support to the Agency, which includes the development of Marketing Strategy document for the Agency and urged them to continue the good work for the benefit of all resident of Kano State.

According to the leader of the delegation Mrs Dolapo Ogundehin said that, the enrolment of vulnerable people living with HIV by KSCHMA was commendable, and they would continue to collaborate for the enrolment of those that can afford to pay for themselves or others into the informal sector among the people living with HIV and other members of the society, in order to increase the coverage of the scheme, to ensure universal health coverage is achieved to all residents of Kano.

The delegation visited some KSCHMA engaged facilities to observe the implementation of the scheme especially the vulnerable enrollees of people living with HIV in the facilities.

The facilities visited includes Hasiya Bayero paediatric Hospital, Mariya Sanusi Maternity Hospital, Khalifa Sheikh Isyaka Rabi’u paediatric Hospital and Hotoro North PHC.

The delegation attended the Debrief meeting with Hon, Commissioner of Health where DG. KSACA Dr. Usman Bashir represented the commissioner and chaired the meeting at EOC Kano.

MOHAMMAD NURA YUSUF.
PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER KSCHMA