Rt, HON. Emmanuel Tsamdu
RAMADAN MESSAGE - JADA TIMES NEWS


Adamawa former deputy speaker in the state Assembly, Rt Honourable Tsamdu Emmanuel has called on all the Muslims ummah to use the holy month of Ramadan as a moment to fervently pray against covid19 virus.

Tsamdu who lament this in his mansion at Kwara Sreet behind A. A lawan yesterday while given out the RAMADAN STUFF to his Muslim supporters across the state as visual.
 He said, there Muslim brothers our lord has writing your names among those who witnessed another holy month of Ramadan, i therefore challenge all of you to intensified your prayers that will give a resounding victory to the pandemic and live to give the story how the world overcome the covid19 scourge.

Tsamdu, While congratulating them on the commencement of the blessed month of Ramadan, he said i pray that you will all attain the peak of its blessings.

“Observing this year’s Ramadan amidst the global pandemic known as Corona virus, call for more prayers from all of us to come out of this pandemic victorious. May we all live to give the story.” He said

The former Lawmaker also called on all his political supporters to stand down all their differences either politically or otherwise to be closed to their lord at this holy month of Ramadan.

He reminded them that the country is indare need of corporative unity in prayers and obeying the laid down rules to combat covid19 and to be our brother’s keeper during this moment of grief in our lives.

Rt, HON. EMMANUEL TSAMDU.

SENATOR BINDOW’S RAMADAN MESSAGE - JADA TIMES NEWS

The immediate past Governor of Adamawa State, Senator Muhammed Umaru Jibrilla Bindow has called on all Muslims in the state to take advantage of the 2020 Ramadan fast to intensify prayers for God to intervene and heal the land of the dreaded novel Covid-19 (Corona Virus) pandemic.

Senator Jibrilla made the call in a special Ramadan message which he personally signed.

“As people of faith, we believe that their is nothing beyond the power of Allah, therefore we must return to Allah at this trying times especially when scientific evidence shows that the Covid-19 infection has no known cure nor vaccine”.

Bindow called on all Adamawa people to be patient with Government’s decisions, as hard as it might seem, drastic situations as it is said call for drastic measures, adding that this is a sacrifice we must all make to curtail the spread of the disease.

Senator Bindow expressed his gratitude to Allah on hearing that the index case is clinically stable, he prayed for the quick recovery of  the index case of the infection in Adamawa state.

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH ADAMU ADAMU OVER LOSS OF MOTHER - JADA TIMES NEWS

President Muhammadu Buhari has sympathised with the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu over the transition of his mother, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Adamu Gamawa.

According to the President, “I am sad to know about the demise of Hajiya Fatima. My condolences to the family, government and people of Bauchi State. May her soul rest in peace.”

Adamu’s late 106-year-old-mother fondly called “Baba,” was laid to rest in Katagum last Friday. She descended from the family of Wakilin Makaman Katagum, and was married to the late Katukan Katagum, Adamu’s father.

Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 26, 2020

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH ADAMU ADAMU OVER LOSS OF MOTHER

President Muhammadu Buhari has sympathised with the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu over the transition of his mother, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Adamu Gamawa.

According to the President, “I am sad to know about the demise of Hajiya Fatima. My condolences to the family, government and people of Bauchi State. May her soul rest in peace.”

Adamu’s late 106-year-old-mother fondly called “Baba,” was laid to rest in Katagum last Friday. She descended from the family of Wakilin Makaman Katagum, and was married to the late Katukan Katagum, Adamu’s father.

Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 26, 2020

Hon. Namdas Distributes Food Items to Constituents as Ramadan Package-Jada Times News

Hon. Abdulrazak Namdas has admonished Muslims across the country to use the Ramadan fasting and pray for the end of the Coronavirus pandemic in the country and the world at large.

Hon. Namdas who is representing Ganye, Jada, Toungo and Mayo-Belwa at the House of Representatives, made the call while delivering food items to members of his constituency.

Namdas said the gesture is aimed at ameliorating the hardship people may be going through due to the lockdown impose on the state, especially during the Ramadan fasting period.

The Senior Legislative Aide to the Hon. Namdas, Husseini Mbulo, who represented the lawmaker at the distribution said “it is mandated on every Muslim to help those in need during the fasting period. This years Ramadan came at a time when the world is grappling with the Coronavirus pandemic which has crippled businesses and means of livelihood of citizens. It is only right for well-to-do individuals to support those in need, that is why Hon. Namdas is making this donation.”

Namdas further stressed that “members of the All Progressive Congress played an important role in getting us elected into office. It is only natural that we reciprocate this gesture in this critical time. We hope the food items will be distributed judiciously so that those in need will all benefit.”

The acting chairman of All Progressives Congress, Ganye local government, Augustine Nekaburen who received the items on behalf of the party, described Namdas as a pace setter who has the interest of the party at heart. “Just few weeks ago, he brought food items for the party as palliative, and now he brought another one again because of the Ramadan and we thank him. He is always the first. The other time he was the first person among our party leader that brought food items and this time around he is again the first person to bring food items because of the Ramadan. We are saying a very big thank you to Hon. Namdas,” he said.

Augustine further assured that they will share the items accordingly and ensure everybody benefit from it.

A Representative of the APC in Jada local government, Alhaji Danmaliki Jada described the gesture by Hon. Namdas as timely while thanking him for always putting his constituents first. “We thank him for giving this food items to the people of his constituency so that they can do the fasting comfortably based on the situation we find yourself in this country,” he said.

Recall that Hon. Namdas had some few weeks ago distribute food items to his constituents in the wake of the lockdown of the state which was occasioned by the increasing spread of the Coronavirus pandemic in the country.

‌

PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS SARKIN MALAMAN SOKOTO

President Muhammadu Buhari has said the death of Sarkin Malaman Sokoto, Alhaji Buhari Siriddawa, "is not only a loss to the people of Sokoto State, but also the entire country because of his indefatigable commitment to peace during his eventful life on earth."

Reacting to the passage of the Sarkin, the President said, "I received the news of Siriddawa's demise with great shock, and I will say without any fear of contradiction that he was one of the greatest religious leaders of our recent history or time."

According to President Buhari, "the late Siriddawa had committed himself to the promotion of peace, unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country."

Describing him as a remarkable leader, the President added that "the late Sarkin Malaman Sokoto had built an enviable legacy worthy of emulation."

"May the Almighty Allah forgive his soul and reward his noble deeds with paradise, and grant his family the fortitude to bear this great loss,” President Buhari said further, while extending his condolences to the Sokoto Emirate Council in particular, and the government and people of Sokoto State in general.

Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)

ECOWAS LEADERS APPOINT PRESIDENT BUHARI CHAMPION OF COVID -19 RESPONSE

Presidents of West African countries under the aegis of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government have appointed President Muhammadu Buhari Champion of the COVID-19 response.

The appointment took place Thursday at the Extraordinary ECOWAS Summit on COVID-19 which was held via teleconferencing under the Chairmanship of His Excellency, Mahamadou Issoufou, President of the Republic of Niger.

During the teleconference, President Buhari called on fellow ECOWAS leaders to look beyond the challenges posed by the COVID -19 pandemic and tap into various opportunities that it presents for the betterment of lives in Member States:

“In every challenging situation such as the current one, there are also opportunities. Our region must therefore seek to find those opportunities provided by this gloomy global outlook for its benefit by embarking on the implementation of such critical policies, which before now, will be difficult to accept”

While calling on his colleagues to intensify collaboration in order to save the region from “this deadly pandemic through sharing our experiences and best practices,” President Buhari outlined some measures taken by his government in response to the pandemic. These include:

a.       The reduction of interest rates on all applicable Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) interventions from 9 to 5 percent and introduction of a one- year moratorium on CBN intervention facilities;

b.      The inauguration of Presidential Task Force to coordinate national efforts to combat the spread of the virus and ensure efficiency and effectiveness in line with the Nigerian Action Plan on Health Security;

c.       The provision of relief materials including medical and food supplies as well as conditional cash transfers of N20, 000 each for poor and vulnerable households and ;

d.      The establishment of more isolation centers and testing facilities to contain the spread of the virus.

The Nigerian leader also said that unprecedented economic uncertainties, including severe fiscal and foreign exchange constraints, amid a slowdown in global economic growth that most nations are grappling with, have made it imperative for “our sub-region to refocus on accelerating the implementation of our popular vision of ‘ECOWAS of the people’ by adopting dynamic regional policies aimed at providing relief to our citizens.”

“Despite declining revenues, government continues to spend massively on the containment of the virus, medical care for those infected and minimizing impact of the crisis on the poor and vulnerable. This situation puts severe pressure on our finances by increasing our expenditures amid dwindling revenues. This invariably has led to a restructuring and reduction of our budget,” he added.

President Buhari used the occasion to rally other leaders to embrace agriculture, technology and innovation in order to emerge stronger.

“It is imperative that while addressing short term challenges, we should also explore opportunities to promote strong and dynamic agricultural policies that will guarantee food security for our people, creating jobs and reducing poverty in the region. We must innovate and use technology to boost the digital economy and do things differently, but better,” he said.

The Nigerian President affirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with other member states as they battle the virus:

“At a time of global uncertainty such as this, caused by the devastating impact of the COVID-19, let me convey Nigeria's solidarity with all the Member States as we collectively battle to defeat the pandemic. I am greatly saddened by loss of numerous lives and extend my heartfelt condolences to families of those who have lost loved ones throughout the region. I also wish infected victims speedy and full recovery.”

He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the well-being and safety of the people in the sub-region and restated support for any initiatives that would curb the spread of the pandemic arising from the Summit.

ADAMAWA RECEIVES 3 TRUCKS OF 5OKG RICE FROM FG AS PALLIATIVE OVER COVID 19

Federal Government has presented three trucks of 50kg per boiled  rice to the state as part of efforts to reduce the hardships caused as a result of COVID 19 pandemic.

Deputy Governor of the state chief Crowther Seth received the items on behalf of the state government at the State headquarters of the Customs office in Yola

Contrary to some reports that state Government received trucks of rice from federal government as parliative measures. This is the first set of palliative received from the Ministry.

The presentation of three trucks containing six hundred bags of 50kg per boiled rice which  is the first received by the state government from the federal government through the ministry of Humanitarian affairs has finally cleared the air over palliative sent to the state from the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian affairs.

Deputy Governor of the state chief Crowther Seth who received the items on behalf of the state Government thanked the federal government, saying the intervention came timely.

Chief Seth noted that the Government of Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri is mindful of the current challenges, and he  explained furthe that measures have been put in peace by state Government to curtail the spread of corona virus pandemic in the state.

He challenged those spreading rumours of receiving items from federal government to always cross check their information and assured of the even distribution of the items to the poor.

The Director Humanitarian Federal Ministry of of Humanitarian affairs Grema Ali Alhaji said the presentation of the items is inline with the federal Government's directives to provide parliative to the citizenry.

The Area comproller of customs in charge of Adamawa and Taraba states Kamardeen Olumoh who had ealier presented the total of 1800 bags of Rice for unward distribution said it is in support of federal government in the fight against COVID 19.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri Wednesday announced confirmation of COVID-19 index case in Adamawa

The Governor who announced this in a statewide special broadcast to the people, said the index case was a returnee from Kano State last week whose samples were taken alongside two others.

He said upon arrival from Kano and feeling sick, the victim has presented himself at the State Specialist Hospital, Yola for consultation where he was isolated and his samples were taken for testing and came out positive Wednesday morning.

He added that government has put all apparatus needed to help him treated at the isolation centre in Yola and has commissioned a contract tracing mechanism to get all his contacts quarantined and tested.

Governor Umaru Fintiri requested the people of Adamawa to prepare for a total lockdown to be announced in due course to prevent the state from the spread of the virus in addition urged citizens not to panic.

He stressed that upon breakdown of coronavirus in the country, Adamawa State government has put all measures including restriction of movements and lockdown of borders to prevent the disease from coming into the state.

He disclosed that government has invested tremendous funds and resources in ensuring the state is protected against the pandemic and people are positioned psychologically to contain the situation.

The Governor revealed that Adamawa has a COVID-19 containment team working round to ensure that the state is on top of the situation while a disease surveillance team is also doing a great job.

He commended the security agents in the state in manning Adamawa borders and called on people to uphold preventive measures and collectively come together to fight the disease in the state.

HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH AND YOUTHS EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION:* CAC - RC No. 144465 *LETTER OF INTRODUCTION:*

We have the rare privilege and honor of introducing the International Human Rights Watch and Youths Empowerment Foundation Nigeria, which is a Pan United Nations think tank that helps to mainstream activities as well as amplify the voices of young People and the old in line with the  United Nations goals which is geared towards the actualization of our desired Society.

Human Rights Watch and Youths Empowerment Foundation is also an international human right organization that seeks to promote the cultural heritage and the beauty of Human existence through the strengthening of civil relationships, access to information, gender equality and good-governance, where equity, justice, peace, security, prosperity and respect for the rule of law is guaranteed.

It is also one of our topmost Priorities to have a world devoid of discrimination, a world were all citizen will enjoy basic sovereign rights, access to information, participate meaningfully in developmental activities  and sustain our culture and heritage.

Thus, the International Human Rights Watch and Youth Empowerment Foundation  (www.hrwn.org) is a conglomeration of men and women of like minds, passion driven that are vigorously committed to reinventing *The Society We Want* and positioning the society amongst the comity of Nations and of truly progressive and prosperous nations by drawing, directing, re-engineering the ideal driving force of the youths from the United Nations countries and beyond, for the purpose of building a new world powered by strong institutions, united and prosperous, devoid of discriminations of any sort be it ethnic, religion, sex/gender, profession, physical challenges or skin colour, to engender wealth creation, skills endowments,  ethical leaderships engagements, as well as collective social economic and political well being.

As part of our  programme to encourage excellence and to acknowledge the contributions of Cooperate Bodies, Captains of industries, prominent men and women who have being identified as enviable pillars for ideal socio-Economic, Education and Human capacity development in general., we are writing to you for partnership to help achieve the objective of our dear organization.

This  request is in view of all your numerous contributions towards the up-liftment of Human capacity development, policy formulation, Education and research.

We are proud of your achievements and what you stand for.

Thank you and God bless you.

*Ambassador Agim Godwin Apple*
President /Founder.
+358465334431

RT HON.AWWAL D TUKUR CONDOLES PRESIDENT BUHARI ON THE DEATH OF ABBA KYARI

The Chairman Adamawa State University Governing Council,Awwal D Tukur has commiserated with President Muhammadu Buhari on the death of his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abba Kyari.

Hon.Tukur described the death of Abba Kyari as very unfortunate and a big loss to the country.

He described the late Chief of Staff to the President as an epitome of humility and hardwork who served his country with a high sense of responsibility and patriotism.

Hon.Awwal D Tukur  wished President Buhari and members of the immediate family of the late Chief of Staff the fortitude to bear this loss.

He also prayed for the repose of the soul of Abba Kyari.

Comr.Sanusi Mohammed Jada
(Media Aide) to the Chairman Adamawa State University Governing Council.

Awwal D Tukur (Wakili Ganye) mourns late Isa Hammanyero Nyako - Jada Times News Online

Hon. Awwal D Tukur has commiserated with the family of Alh. Isa Hammanyero Nyako (Lamdo Kabbi Adamawa), Adamawa Emirate Council, the good people Mayo Belwa and Adamawa state at large.

A statement by the media aide Sanusi Mohammed Jada stated that the loss is not only to the Hammanyero Nyako family but the society at large, adding that “we’ve lost a statesman and a pillar for many.”

He further described late Isa Hammanyero as a very generous elder statesman who dedicated his life to God and service to Humanity.

Hon.Awwal Tukur prayed Allah to grant Isa Hammanyero Aljanna Firdausi and called on everyone to pray earnestly for the deceased and comfort to the entire family.

ADAMAWA POLICE ARREST RING LEADER OF KIDNAPPERS IN GIREI, RECOVER AK- 47

In their renewed commitment to combating crime in and around the state, the police in Adamawa state have apprehended a ring leader of kidnappers terrorising the inhabitants of Girei Local Government Area in the state.

The suspect, Alhaji Ashiru Sule and resident of Tambo, a community in Girei LGA confessed to had masterminded several criminal activities including kidnapping in some communities in the area.

According to the police command, the 38 year old Alhaji Sule was arrested on Sunday 5th April, 2020, with one AK- 47 riffle with 20 rounds of live ammunitions.

A statement signed by the Public Relation Officer of the Command, DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje and made available to NEWS PLATFORM Tuesday, said that the suspect was nabbed by the operatives of the command patrolling Girei and Song LGAs respectively.

The suspect, according to DSP Nguroje, revealed during investigation to had coordinated several  criminal activities most especially kidnapping in the area, and received ransom from their victims.

"Recently, the suspect coordinated and threatened to abduct his elderly brother or pay the sum of Five million (#5million) as ransom" he added.

While appreciating the citizens for their resilience, he urged them to support and cooperate with Police at all times and reiterated the commitment of the command to protecting lives and property of the citizens.

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT SERIOUSLY CONCERNED WITH LOCKDOWN PROBLEMS, SUCCOUR ON THE WAY FOR OUR PEOPLE, SAYS OSINBAJO

(VP was accosted by NTA after a meeting this afternoon with President Buhari.)

Below, his exchange with the press:

Question: Your Excellency, what do you want Nigerians to know regarding your engagement with the President as the head of the high-powered Economic Sustainability Committee?

Answer: I came to brief the President, as it is usual, the regular briefing that I give, sometimes I come physically as you have seen me today, other times I brief him on the phone or by video conference.

What we are concerned about is how to ensure that the economy remains stable, that jobs are protected and if possible, more jobs are created. We are very concerned about that and the President has expressed very serious concerns about the problems that may be associated with the lockdown.

Many of our people work for a daily wage, they have to go out to work, so we have to think in terms of how to ensure that we are able to give them some succour during the period when they are not able to work.

Some of those issues are the issues Mr President wanted me to discuss fully with him. Of course, we have the Economic Sustainability Committee and shortly we are going to submit a full report to Mr President on our thoughts and ideas.

Mr President asked me to meet with him in particular to resolve some of the pressing issues around COVID-19 and also around the economic problems that we are seeing already.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity
Office of the Vice President
10th April, 2020

Federal Government Issues A Strong Warning To Chinese Doctors That Just Arrived Nigeria HEALTH

Chinese doctors
Amid a wave of opposition, 15 Chinese medical experts arrived in Nigeria on Wednesday, to join the battle against COVID-19.

The Federal Government received some medical equipment and supplies brought by medical team which arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja in a chartered Air Peace flight.

China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the sponsor of the trip, said they brought about 16-tons of test kits, ventilators, disinfection machine, disposable medical masks, N95 masks, medications, rubber gloves, protective gowns, goggles, face shields, infra-red thermometers and others.

Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, who was at the airport to receive the Chinese and their supplies, said the team will be quarantined for two weeks.

“They knew that before they came and have undergone tests before they left their country.

“Nevertheless, they will be in quarantine for 14 days. The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has gone to see where they will be quarantined.”

Ehanire added: “The equipment (they brought) will assist a lot to fill some existing gaps.

“We now have 50 more ventilators.”

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Zhou Pingjian, said the equipment and medical supplies are valued at about $1.5million. Added to the cost of the flight, everything is worth about $2million.

Our reporter learnt that 12 of the 15-man team are doctors. The rest are specialists in infectious diseases, respiratory illnesses, intensive care, cardiology, neurology, general surgery and anesthesiology.

CCECC Nigeria Managing Director, Michael Jiang, said in a statement: “The primary purpose of the working team is to escort the medical supply and provide guidance for their usage and distribution.

“They will also provide CCECC employees with critical and necessary healthcare assistance where necessary. They are also coming with adequate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and medical items for the employees.

“In addition, under the directive of the Chinese Embassy and in response to the Nigeria Government’s request, the working team may also share with Nigerian medical teams effective methods on how to contain the COVID-19 and provide advice on the use of relevant medical equipment.

“The team is not coming to treat COVID-19 patients in Nigeria.

“In keeping with its corporate value, ‘Stride with Nigeria’, CCECC is participating in the construction of two COVID-19 response facilities in the FCT for free as part of its Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR).

“The facilities are a 196-bed at ‘ThisDay Dome Treatment Centre,’ in collaboration with Sahara Group and Arise News; and the 150-bed ‘Idu Depot Treatment Centre’.”

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and the National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria (NARD) re-iterated that the Chinese experts must not directly treat any Nigerian patient.

They described any attempt by the Chinese medical team to manage any Nigerian patient as unethical and illegal.

NMA President Dr Francis Faduyile told our reporter: “Our stand has not changed and we still insist that there is nothing that they (Chinese) want to offer that can improve what we have on the ground.

“There are so many things that we need to put into consideration because it is a war affecting ordinary Nigerians, and sometimes, you look at the risk and benefits.

“Our members will look at what is on the ground; if we are doing what we are doing and they (Chinese) do not interfere with us, we will continue doing what we are doing for Nigerians.

“We cannot now precipitously make a decision. We are an association that is bounded by ethics, and rules. In a very short while, you will hear our decision”

NARD President, Dr Sokomba Aliyu, said while the association was not against donations, the experts cannot attend to any Nigerian patient because they do not have the license to practice in Nigeria.

“We do not need their hands as we are not overwhelmed and can take care of our patients.

“So far, they have also stated that they are not coming to attend to patients, so we cannot say categorically if their words are anything to go by.

“While they (officials) have gone ahead to welcome the Chinese, we are hopeful that the Chinese will have nothing to do with our patients because if they proceed to involve the Chinese in the management of our patients, we will just leave the patients for the Chinese to continue.

“As it is now, we are going to be watchful and wait for them to see how far they are engaging the Chinese, and to what extent they are going to be managing our patients,” Aliyu said.

Also yesterday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) asked Nigerians to hold President Muhammadu Buhari responsible should there be an upsurge in the rate of COVID-19 infection and death following the arrival of the Chinese.

The party said it was alarmed that the President ignored the protests by Nigerians and professional bodies, including the NMA and allowed the Chinese doctors to be brought in “from the hotbed of the plague”.

PDP, through its spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan, questioned the safety of kits and equipment from China, adding that it was concerned about “scary reports of escalation of the scourge in certain countries reportedly after the arrival of Chinese medical personnel”.

“Our doctors and nurses have been on top of the situation with records of recoveries and fewer casualties, thus raising questions about the real intentions of bringing in doctors from China.

”Nigerians are aware that since the index case was reported till date, our nation’s COVID-19 data stands at 254 confirmed cases, out of which 44 have been successfully treated by our doctors with six deaths, which reportedly had other underlining ailments”, the party noted.

The figure rose to 276 last night.

The party charged Nigerians to be extra vigilant and asked the Presidential Task Force to outline the states and local government areas the Chinese doctors are expected to operate in for monitoring .

Also, the United Labour Congress (ULC) said while there is nothing wrong with seeking help, stakeholders should have been carried along.

Its President Comrade Joe Ajaero said in a statement: “We are surprised that the decision to bring in the Chinese medical experts was not fully discussed and agreed among the top medical practitioners and stakeholders in the nation… This is worrying.

“Why would such a crucial decision be taken in secret without coordinate input from the critical stakeholders in the nation?

“This sector is a highly specialised area which requires that at all times the input of the professionals in this sector to process the offer and agree on its mechanics and modalities.

“As we battle against COVID-19, we strongly believe that the nation’s medical experts must be involved if not allowed to be at the forefront of taking such crucial decisions.”

ULC urged the Federal Government to address Nigerians’ fears, especially as it relates coronavirus.

The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) said it would resist any move to deploy Chinese medical team in Southeast and Southsouth.

Its leader Uchenna Madu said in a statement: “We shall resist any medical assistance from China…Medical doctors and other health workers in Southeast and Southsouth are capable and trained to handle every medical challenge professionally in those areas.”

EASTER: GOVERNOR FINTIRI FELICITATES WITH CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY, CALLS FOR PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE

Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has  appealed to citizens of the state to imbibe the spirit of peaceful- coexistence, tolerance and sacrifice as Christians celebrate Easter.

He said, this year’s celebration comes at an increasingly challenging period. “A time of disruption of the very social fabric of the people as Coronavirus Pandemic continues to ravage the world forcing a lockdown amid the celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ”.

He said the season calls for sober reflection and soul searching, urging Christians to use the Easter period to reflect in prayer promoting and sustaining the foundation of love, peace and harmony that the state is known for. He noted that Jesus Christ demonstrated peaceful co-existence, tolerance and sacrifice for mankind throughout his ministry on earth.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri therefore challenged Christians to use this Easter period “As a time that presents the opportunity to rise above those differences that have denied the state growth and development and help steer Adamawa back on the road to progress and stability”.

He applauded the people of the state for heeding the stay at home order and for the selfless sacrifice of those working round the clock to preserve lives and protect the vulnerable at a time the world battles Covid-19 virus Pandemic.

While wishing the people of the state a happy Easter celebration, the Governor reiterated his administrations resolve to work for the greater good of Adamawa.

Humwashi Wonosikou
Press Secretary to the Governor
10/04/2020

Lockdown: FG disburses to 16, 971 households in Adamawa

by Iklima Abubakar 

The Federal Government says it has began disbursement of N339.42 million to 16, 971 deserving households in Adamawa, as part of palliative to cushion the effects of the lockdwon.
Mr Abdullahi  Zakari, an official of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme, made the disclosure at the inauguration of the disbursement exercise on Monday in Damare village,  Girei Local Government Area of the state.
Zakari said the intervention was meant to bring succor to the  less  privileged  during the lockdown occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Federal Government has earmarked N339.42 million  to be disburse to 16, 971 less privileged households in the state.
“The intervention is under the National Social Investment Programme ( NSIP) initiated by President Muhammadu Buhari as part of his campaign promises to reduce poverty, ” Zakari said.
Also speaking, Mary Yuwadi, Adamawa State Focal Person of the NSIP, said each of the beneficiaries would receive N20, 000 for four months period between January and April.
“The presidential intervention will go a long way to assist the less privileged especially in this critical period.
“The beneficiaries are carefully selected from 12 local government areas of the state, ” Yuwadi said.
She said the Federal Government had also approved additional 7, 000 beneficiaries in the state, adding that:  “they will start receiving the incentive soon”.
Yuwadi listed Numan; Lamurde, Shelleng, Girei, Song, Gombi, Hong, Michika, Madagali, Mubi North, Maiha and Toungo as participating local government councils.
On his part, Basheer Ahmed, Secretary to the Adamawa State Government (SSG), lauded the Federal Government for the gesture, adding it would go a long way to improve the social and economic well being of the people.
Ahmed reiterated the state government commitment to support NSIP to facilitate smooth implementation of the programme in the state.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Amina Bapatel , thanked the president for identifying with them.
Bapatel said the money given to them would be used to fend for their respective families.
Source: NAN

UPDATE ON THE ONGOING (FG) CONDITIONAL CASH TRANSFER (CCT) TO THE VULNERABLE OF GIREI LOCAL GOVERNMENT, ADAMAWA STATE

The CCT officials under the Ministry for Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development were in GIREI L.G.A of Adamawa state today, as part of their efforts to discharge the presidential order towards cushioning the effect of COVID-19 pandemic/hardship to the vulnerable Nigerians.

So far, in GIREI L.G.A we have 3,603 beneficiaries cut across five (5) wards which are; GIREI 1, GIREI 2, Wuro-Dole, Damare and Dakri. This figure is based on the social investment program (SIP) data of 2017.

Also, this afternoon, the 6th of April, 2020 the CCT officials were in Wuro-Dole Ward, (JABBI-LAMBA) to be specific for the ongoing disbursement of the CCT to the vulnerable.
In JABBI-LAMBA area of Wuro-Dole ward were we have 864 registered beneficiaries across 19 communities and they have all gotten their entitlements in arrears.

Consequently, while applauding and appreciating the A.PC lead Federal Government for the timely intervention, I wish to call on all the CCT/SIP beneficiaries to utilize what they have gotten to cushioning their hardship and also to continue supporting the policies and programs for the federal government.

THANK YOU PMB! The man of honour and integrity!!!

*COVID- 19: Governor Inuwa Yahaya Taking Tough Decisions To Mitigate Economic Impact of Pandemic*

By Ismaila Uba Misilli

The ravaging coronavirus pandemic hit the world suddenly, thereby becoming one of  the biggest threats to humanity, global economy and financial markets. The World Health Organization's report revealed that the virus, first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, has infected over one million people in at least 120 countries with more than 60,000 deaths recorded globally so far.

The acclaimed World Powers such as United States of America, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain and others are becoming overwhelmed with increasing cases of the deadly Coronavirus (COVID-19) daily.

 Unfortunately, COVID-19 did not spare Nigeria as the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed over 200 cases with 5 deaths as at 5th of April, 2020. The escalation of COVID-19 forced many nations to shutdown their economy as well as lockdown the streets to curtail spread of the communicable disease.

Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari last week  announced additional measures including lockdown of Lagos, Ogun and Federal Capital Territory coupled with stay at home order to prevent the spread  of the pandemic, while in Gombe  state, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya had taken proactive steps, including constituting a Taskforce with adequate funding, closing of the state's borders and engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that Gombe maintains clean record and prepare for any eventuality.

No doubt, Coronavirus pandemic is having negative effect on Nigeria's economy,  making Gombe and other states to feel the heat. For instance, the global crude oil price has dropped to less than $30 as against $57 projection in 2020 budget and millions of Nigeria's oil barrels are on the high sea waiting for buyers. Also, revenues from non-oil sectors are affected, including Value Added Tax due to shutdown in some countries which is slowing down the economy.

Unsurprisingly, the recent FAAC meeting indicated about N50billion decrease in revenue available for sharing among the Federal, States and Local Governments. The ongoing Stay at home/lockdown would further deplete our revenue, thereby reducing allocation to each state. We are in this cloudy situation together, hence a good leader must restrategise and act fast!

Therefore, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya seems to be in agreement with United States Army General, General Douglas MacArthur (1880-1964) who said:  ''A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others'. The Governor is already restrategising, rethinking and working out modalities to ensure the state stays strong and continues to meet its financial obligations amidst this crisis.

Gombe State Government is now putting in place measures aimed at mitigating the economic impact, including minimizing recurrent expenditures in order to save cost and make funds available for projects amidst Coronavirus crisis.

In a recent interview with journalists, the state Commissioner of Finance and Economic Development, Alhaji Muhammad Gambo Magaji said, “We begin to plan ahead for those months that will be extremely difficult.”

He hinted that the quick-fix measures being taken by the state government were to strengthen the Internally Generated Revenue base to ensure that it meets most of its needs in terms of the yearnings and aspirations of the people.
He said the state had commenced reviewing its 2020 budget to reflect the effect of the pandemic on the economy with a view to maintaining financial discipline as allocation from Federal Government dwindles.

“For us in Gombe, we have started to look at our budget for 2020 and already in the process of reviewing it to reflect the changes that have already been adopted by the Federal Government.
“Our budget should also reflect the reality, so that we capture correctly what we expect as revenue from federal allocation and that of course, translates to a reduction in the overall revenues accruable to the state.

He said that the suspension of the N30,000 minimum wage after due consultation and deliberation with labour leaders in the state and slashing the salaries of all political appointees are part of the measures to mitigate the economic impact of COVID-19. The Commissioner said the worst days were yet to be seen but, “as a responsible government, we will try to ensure that we are able to meet our obligations within these periods".

"The suspension of new minimum wage implementation was a painful decision for the governor but the current administration acted in good faith after due consultation with labour leaders".

Interestingly,  Governor Inuwa Yahaya since assumption of office has shown commitment to workers' welfare as can be attested to in prompt payment of salaries, clearing of outstanding wages including those of staff of State Owned Higher Institutions, taking over full payment of higher institutions staff salaries and payment of backlog of gratuity to state retirees.

The process of reviewing the 2020 budget is ongoing but priority projects such as roads, education, health, rural development and others will continue to receive attention for common good. It is noteworthy that some of the projects initiated or inherited by this administration will be ready for commissioning soon.  Also, prudence in governance and effective utilization of funds will remain the hallmark of Inuwa Yahaya's administration, as such public funds would not be deployed for frivolous activities.

Having said this, the diversification of Gombe state economy through revamping of agricultural sector, industrialization drive by setting up of an industrial park and attracting investors, revitalizing government owned companies such as Gombeline and resuscitating others like Manto as well as boosting of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) are the routes towards building  stronger economy for our dear state.

 It may be recalled that Governor Inuwa Yahaya had recently effected change in the management and affairs of Gombe State Board of Internal Revenue and deployed technology for its operations with the view to strengthening it and blocking leakages as well as sharp practices in manual revenue collection. Just last week, the new management of the Board Internal Revenue uncovered a syndicate printing fake  e-receipt to shortchange the state government and indeed the people of the state. Without mincing words, the strengthening of the revenue collection agency is already yielding good fruits with increment in State IGR and the revenue will be used to augment government purse.

The lesson from the impact of the coronavirus on the nation’s economy only reminds us of the need to diversify by encouraging people to move into other sectors to harness the potentials there.

Gombe state is already moving on high speed to diversify its economy and this is the reason Governor Inuwa Yahaya is passionate about the Gombe industrial park which has already started attracting investors even before it comes on stream.

With these and many more initiatives and measures, one must agree that Gombe state is already on a sound pedestal to absorb the consequential effects of the coronavirus pandemic as Governor Inuwa Yahaya continues to take far-reaching and multi pronged steps to address the challenges of the state and in particular the concerns of covid-19, which is threatening lives and means of livelihood of the citizenry.

 Misilli, Senior Special Assistant
( Media and Publicity) to Gombe state Governor

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS AMB. IGALI AT 60

President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates warmly with Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boledei Igali, OON, on the joyous occasion of his 60th birthday anniversary.

The President rejoices with the family, friends and political associates of the Bayelsa State-born former career diplomat, retired federal permanent secretary, academic and author, as he celebrates this milestone.

President Buhari commends the over three decades Amb. Igali devoted to a distinguished service of his fatherland, especially while serving as Nigeria’s top diplomat in various countries.

He wishes the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial aspirant in the forthcoming Bayelsa rerun election more years of worthy service to the nation and humanity.

Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 6, 2020

GOVERNOR FINTIRI DONATES 20 MILLION NAIRA TO KEKE NAPEP OPERATORS TO HELP CUSHION THE 14 DAYS LOCKDOWN HARDSHIP IN THE STATE

The Adamawa State Government has commended the patriotism, and the ultimate sacrifice and understanding of the citizens of the State towards combating the ravaging Coronavirus Pandemic.

The State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on behalf of the Adamawa State Covid-19 Containment Committee expressed the gratitude of the Government to all who responded by supporting the battle to flatten the curve.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri said “the outpouring solidarity and support sparked by this shared challenge has been phenomenal” and this informed Government’s intervention through the provision of food items for distribution to the vulnerable across the 21 Local Government Areas of the State.

Government also considered the critical transport sector especially the Keke-Napep Operators hit by the 14-day lockdown and released the sum of Twenty Million (N20,000,000.00) Naira to the association to cushion the impact.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri appreciates especially the PDP caucus in the House of Representatives for donating 2.5 Million Naira, Alhaji Musa Garba a businessman and philanthropist who donated 2 Million Naira and a facility to serve as a containment centre when the need arises as well as the United Bank for Africa (UBA) for pledging 28.5 Million Naira at a time the world is facing an unprecedented challenge with communities and economies everywhere affected by the Covid-19 Pandemic.

He said “Your donation is greatly appreciated in the effort supporting the ability of Government to respond to Covid-19, especially where the needs are greatest”.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri appealed to well-meaning citizens to emulate the good gestures of the donor’s, assuring that donations received will go towards funding the strategic preparedness and response plan.

He however appealed to all to ensure they adhere to basic practices of hand washing, social distancing and proper hygiene.

Humwashi Wonosikou
Press Secretary to the Governor

A STATEMENT BY THE RESIDENT AND HUMANITARIAN COORDINATOR OF UN IN NIGERIA, MR EDWARD KALLON, AT THE LAUNCH OF THE COVID-19 BASKET FUND FOR NIGERIA,

Date: Monday 6 April 2020,
Venue: Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Abuja.

Protocol

Excellency, The Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chair of the Presidential Task Force for the COVID 19 Pandemic;
Excellency, Minister of Health and other members of the Federal Executive Council
National Coordinator of the Presidential Task Force for the COVID 19 Pandemic;
Director General National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corps and Friends of Nigeria
Distinguish Guest, Ladies and Gentlemen
Colleagues of the UN System
Members of the Press

I am honoured to join the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to launch the Nigeria/UN COVID 19 Basket Fund to enhance coordination, technical and financial support to the Presidential Task Force to prevent, prepare and respond to the COVID 19 Pandemic.
Shortly after the index case of 27 February 2020, the UN system in Nigeria - in accordance with the UN Reform - adopted a ‘One UN Response’ to support the ‘National COVID-19 Leadership to prevent, prepare and respond to the COVID 19 Pandemic.

This is a trying moment for all of us as our shared humanity is under threat of the COVID 19 Pandemic. Societies around the globe are in turmoil and economies are in a nose-dive. It is still unclear what the true magnitude of the spread and impact of the virus will look like in Nigeria. The available emerging evidence is however clear, the only effective response to the COVID 19 Pandemic is testing, isolation and contact tracing.

From preliminary macro and micro social economic analysis, the COVID 19 Pandemic is expected to place immense pressure on Nigeria’s  healthcare system and will result in a serious economic and fiscal pressure with a risk of a negative social impact if proactive measures are not taken to prevent, prepare, respond and cushion the economic impact of the Pandemic.

The International Monetary Fund has reassessed the global prospect for growth for 2020 and 2021, declaring that we have entered a recession – as bad as or worse than in 2009. We  must respond decisively, innovatively and together to suppress the spread of the virus and address the socio-economic devastation that COVID-19 is causing in our world today.
The magnitude of the response must match the scale of the crisis -- large-scale, coordinated and comprehensive, with country and international responses being guided by the World Health Organization. And it must be multilateral, with countries showing solidarity to the most vulnerable communities and nations.

In the words of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, “There is no other way to deal with global challenges than with global responses organized in a multilateral way.”
On 23 March 2020, the national COVID 19 leadership of Nigeria met with the UN Country leadership and key bilateral donors to discuss the unfolding emergency. We collectively agreed to adopt the "Four Ones" guiding principles of engagement for national authorities and partners to respond to the pandemic:

(i) One National COVID-19 Multi-Sectoral Pandemic Response Plan;
(ii) One COVID-19 National Coordinating Authority with a broad-based multi-sector mandate;
(iii) One COVID-19 M&E System for tracking and reporting progress; and
(iv) One COVID-19 Financing and Investment Platform. 

Consequently, the COVID-19 Basket Fund has been designed to serve within the One COVID-19 Financing and Investment Platform, through which the different stakeholders (including UN, other multilateral and bilateral donors, as well as private sector donors, foundations and philanthropists) can channel their financial contributions to the multisectoral efforts of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 Response.

The National COVID 19 Multisectoral Response Plan is developed around 10 key pillars, including coordination. The UN would like to urge investment into these 10 key pillars identified in the government plan and  support nationwide socio-economic interventions of vulnerable groups, particularly on efforts aimed at scaling up surveillance, testing, isolation, contact tracing, personal protection equipment for medical staff, disinfectants for medical facilities, risk communication, community engagement and clinical management of the critically unwell COVID-19 patients.

We must tackle the devastating social and economic dimensions of this crisis, with a focus on the most vulnerable and most affected people: women, older persons, people living with disabilities, youth, low-wage workers, small and medium enterprises and the informal sector. We must pay attention to those in humanitarian and conflict settings where the potential risk of community spread is high.  The Basket Fund will also address critical areas of the National Multi-sectoral Pandemic Response Plan
I must commend the Federal Government and states, for their efforts in mobilizing financial and non-financial resources to address the impact of COVID-19. However, they cannot do it alone. For the country to succeed in eliminating the coronavirus threat, it calls for all of us to act cooperatively across all sectors and support the government’s efforts at this time of a great human need.

I therefore call on all stakeholders to work together to contain the COVID 19 Pandemic in Nigeria. The world is facing an unprecedented test.  And this is the moment of truth. We urgently need an immediate coordinated health response to suppress transmission and end the pandemic. Debt alleviation must be a priority – including immediate waivers on interest payments for 2020.

The recovery from the COVID-19 crisis must lead to a different economy. Everything we do during and after this crisis must be with a strong focus on building resilience, ensuring equal access to social services though systems strengthening, in particular health systems strengthening, and investments in building more equal, inclusive and sustainable economies and societies that are more resilient in the face of pandemics, climate change, and the many other global challenges we face.

To my Nigerian Brothers and Sisters, this is your moment. This is your moment to join your government in Unity and strength to fight COVID-19. As we say in times like this- Naija no dey come last.

Edward Kallon
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator

CONDITIONAL CASH TRANSFERS TO VULNERABLE HOLDS IN ADAMAWA

Today, the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development are at Jabbi-lamba primary school, Wuro-Dole Ward in Girei local government, as part of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) to the Nigeria's most venerable family members, as ordered by president Muhammadu Buhari.

Therefore beneficiaries are expected to observe social distancing between one another and all preventive measures against the novel COVID-19 pandemic. 

I will give you the details of the payments and the number of the beneficiaries and the benefiting communities in jabbi-lamba area and Girei local government in general.

Girei local government is one of 12 CCT benefiting local governments in Adamawa state since 2017.

MEET THE FIRST FEMALES SUG PRESIDENT OF ABU ZARIA. Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan, the first female SUG President of ABU Zaria

Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan, the first female SUG President of ABU Zaria

Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan popularly known as “Mama Taraba” is a distinguished Abusite and prominent Nigerian politician who is a former minister of women affairs and former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who represented Taraba North Senatorial District. She was also APC’s Gubernatorial Candidate for Taraba State in the 2015 general elections. She contested for the same seat on the platform of the UDP in the 2019 general elections.

EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan was born on the 16th of September, 1959 in Jalingo, Taraba State, to Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim OON, Sarkin Ayukan Muri.

Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan attended Muhammed Nya Primary School, Jalingo and LEA Primary School, Tudun Wada, Kaduna before proceeding to Saint Faith College (now GGSS) Kawo Kaduna where she studied between Jan. 1973 – June 1977. The first set to do 4½ years in Secondary School because of the change of commencement of school year from January to September.

She proceeded to the School of Basic Studies (SBS) Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria from July 1977 to July 1979 for her preliminary studies.

Hajia Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan Joined student politics at ABU Main Campus in 1977 when she was a little over 18 years. She Contested for the post of Vice President of the SUG in 1978. The first time by a non-undergraduate. Based on the informal political arrangement at this time, the position of Vice President was always reserved for women and winners always emerged un-opposed.
But it was different this time, 1978. For the first time, three female students contested for the position. A female student Elizabeth (Lizzy) Wambebe then an undergraduate studying Fine Arts and Lead Vocalist of ABU JAZZ Club was a strong contender. Also, for the first time too, a male undergraduate contested for the position.

Despite the fact that she was a prelim student and perceived by some to be an underdog, she won the election and became the Vice President and only female in the SUG Exco of that year (1978 – 1979) headed by Mal. Abdulhameed Imam, who was the president. The Secretary-General was Comrade Isa Bala Lawal while Assistant Secretary-General was Comrade AbdulRahman Black of blessed memory.

All members of SUGExco of that year except Aisha were undergraduates and males. During their tenure, there was a student crisis as a result of which some of the Exco members including the President were indicted and expelled from the University. As a result, Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan became the Acting President and completed the Tenure of Mal. Abdulhameed Imam.

During her days as an SBS ABU Student and Vice President/ActingPresident SUG Main Campus, she met her first husband and father of her three children, Professor Ango Abdullahi who was then the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. He always represented the then Vice-Chancellor Prof. O. O. Akinkugbe at meetings with the SUG Exco.

She married Prof. Ango Abdullahi in September 1979 after completing her SBS when her husband was still the Deputy Vice-Chancellor. He became Vice-Chancellor three months after their marriage, in December 1979. Due to her new status as a wife and mother, she switched over from being a Science Student to Arts after her first baby (girl) in 1980.
That same year (1980), Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan enrolled for a Diploma in Law at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. She had to start from the Diploma because of her pure science background. She was lacking the required Arts subjects to enroll for LLB. She proceeded to read LLB at the same ABU Zaria from October 1982 to June 1985. She went to the Nigerian Law School Lagos 1985 – 1986, was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986 and did her NYSC 1986 – 1987.

A Visit To Gashaka-Gumti National Park In Taraba State

Covering about 6600 sq km, Gashaka Gumti is the Nigeria’s largest national park. This area is important not only as a major watershed but also as a haven for a rich and exotic assemblage of wildlife, given its strategic location at the interface between the moist Cameroonian Highland and the dry Sub-Saharan Guinea Savannah.

Gashaka-Gumti National Park is located in a mountainous region of North-east Nigeria adjacent to the international border with Cameroon, and immediately to the North of the Mambilla plateau.

No roads cross this remote region and only a few lonely footpaths wind through the forested mountains towards Cameroon.

Visitors to the park are able to enjoy lush forests, wide sweeping grasslands, cool highland plateaus, rugged moody mountains, abundant wildlife, and fascinating ethnic cultures, all combined within a single protected area.

There are few other places in the world that contain such spectacular scenery and such diverse wildlife. The hidden corner of west Africa that is Gashaka-Gumti National Park is surely one of the continent’s best kept secrets.

NIGERIA AND THE LIFE AFTER

By Garba Shehu

In Nigeria, my country of close to 200 million people, the COVID-19 lockdown began on March 30 in Lagos, Ogun and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). As with nations the world over we are following the advice of a scientifically-led national action plan to halt and then defeat the spread of the virus by staying at home to save lives.

With hindsight, it is clear there is no country anywhere on earth that was as ready as could now be hoped. But fortunately, since the election of 2015 - when for the first time in history power changed hands between an incumbent president and challenger at the ballot box - our now twice democratically elected administration has spent five years rebuilding governance after decades of political corruption under an effective one party state.

When President Buhari was first elected in April of that year, Nigeria and the world was reeling at the news that 276 mostly Christian schoolgirls had been kidnapped by the terrorist group Boko Haram. The previous administration had done next to nothing to try to find them. The then president had even delayed for weeks before acknowledging they were missing.

We soon discovered why: tens of thousands of “ghost” soldiers on the military payroll. Many of those allegedly fighting at the front simply did not exist. The previous government claimed to be waging war against terrorists - but was in truth waging financial fraud against its own people and threatening their security through the corrupt theft of salaries of non-existent soldiers.

Today, the majority of the Chibok girls are now returned to their families. Boko Haram is fractured, desperate and in retreat. Our military is rebuilt, and previous partnerships with the British and American militaries that had seen those countries place defence equipment export bans upon previous Nigerian administrations are lifted.

In government, President Buhari has waged an effective war on corruption, with some 60 per cent of the general public personally experiencing its rapid decline - in testament to the administration’s zeal. And earlier this year some USD 300 million in funds looted under a previous regime was finally returned to Nigeria from banks in the US and the UK (Jersey Islands) and all of that money is being channeled into infrastructure financing.

In December 2017, the Federal Government signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Switzerland on the return and monitoring of the $322 million Abacha loot. This money is being used to fund the Social Investment Programmes, including the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) that began in December 2016. Under the CCT scheme the President had promised to assist one million poor and most vulnerable Nigerians with a monthly stipend of N5,000 each.

These funds are now being distributed directly to individual citizens mostly in need during the coronavirus pandemic and to allow for a three month moratorium on loan repayments by farmers and small businesses granted through government schemes.

Repatriated funds can also be used to boost our health spending - which was already expanding year-on-year for the last five years - for the purchase of test equipment, ventilators, masks and protective clothing.

This would simply not have happened under previous administrations - because all Nigerians know from our personal experiences of living under them that the levels of corruption, social strife and distrust in governance they created would have made that impossible.

The fact that it is today under a President who is a Muslim, his Vice, an  evangelical Christian pastor, and their cabinet equally balanced between Christians and Muslims does not go unnoticed in Nigeria.

But it is less known externally - which is why individuals who supported previous, corrupt governments seek to use the cover of the coronavirus pandemic as their opportunity to wage a fake news war against the country at this time.

They insinuate to further their false claims that a President who writes for the Church Times and Christianity Today and enjoys a personal friendship with the Archbishop of Canterbury is anti-Christian, and that the same President who call for stronger trading alliances between Commonwealth nations and signs bilateral trade and military agreements with Britain is somehow anti Britain and the West.

They insinuate that Boko Haram's terrorist attacks on Christians are somehow the government's doing; that health spending is somehow declining - when it is in fact increasing after they pilfered the system for decades; and that it is this government that created corruption - when in fact the general public themselves make it clear that it is this twice-democratically elected administration that is finally addressing this stain on our governance and society.

To a large degree, many of those Nigerian names writing to conservatives in the UK and the US are just going round making money off the back of lies.

There is a difference between opinion and fact. Everyone is entitled to express the former, The latter can, of course, be questioned: but it does not then change that it is still a fact.

 We can only imagine the untruths that would today be peddled to the Nigerian people and the world beyond our borders during this coronavirus pandemic had previous administrations - or those packed with their heirs - had been in charge. We can only give thanks to the wisdom of Nigerian voters that they are not.

When this worldwide health emergency is defeated, we must look to each other to rebuild the global economy - and look to strengthen partnerships that work. Nigeria is ready to take a more forthright role in the Commonwealth and global economic system as a whole. But today we can only do so because the very thing that allows us to fight the virus at all is a better government, which for the first time in Nigeria's history is both truly representative of our country's two great religions and shorn of the limitless corruption of our predecessors.

Garba Shehu is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity.

Abuja, April 5, 2020

President Buhari Condoles With Kano Over Demise Of 2 Prominent Citizens

President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the Government and people of Kano State over the demise of two prominent citizens, Alhaji Mahmud Gaya, and Dr Habibu Gwarzo a teacher, prominent scholar and businessman.

Alhaji Mahmud Gaya, a retired forestry superintendent, was the father of Malam Abdullahi Mahmud, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum, Downstream.

The president’s condolence message was conveyed in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Saturday.

President Buhari described Gwarzo as “a successful businessman and a community leader who identified himself with the aspirations and progress of his people.

”The late Habibu Gwarzo did not only distinguish himself as a successful businessman but was also a remarkable scholar.

”A combination of these two virtues is an impressive and enviable record worthy of emulation,” he said.

On late Gaya, the President believed that his contributions in the glorious days of forest conservation and development in the country would not be forgotten.

President Buhari prayed to God to forgive the deceased persons and grant them “paradise for their good deeds during their remarkable stay on earth.”

NO CASE OF CORONAVIRUS INFECTION IN TARABA STATE

The story published in The Guardian newspaper edition of Thursday April 2, 2020 claiming that Taraba State now has one positive case of Coronavirus infection is false.

The management of the newspaper has accordingly acknowledged its mistake and has today ( April 3, 2020) published a retraction. Taraba State, as at today, has NO case of Coronavirus virus infection.

I wish to use this medium to urge the general public to disregard the falsehood published earlier by The Guardian as well as the reactions that have trailed it on social media.
The administration of Gov Darius Dickson Ishaku has worked very hard to achieve this zero-infection figure. We give credit for this to Almighty God and the people of the state for cooperating with the administration on this very critical issue.

We assure the public to continue to adhere to the rules of personal hygiene and social distancing and to avoid handshakes. Government will do everything possible to mitigate the pains of the lockdown which begins at 11pm today in the state.
Together we shall work to keep Coronavirus out of  Taraba State. Join us.

Bala Dan Abu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity

PRESIDENT BUHARI FELICITATES WITH STATE CHIEF OF PROTOCOL, AMBASSADOR LAWAL KAZAURE AT 60

President Muhammadu Buhari warmly congratulates State Chief of Protocol, Ambassador Lawal Abdullahi Kazaure on his 60th birthday, April 5, 2020, felicitating with him for meritorious service to the country as a Career Diplomat.

The President joins family, friends and all professional colleagues of the diplomat in celebrating the milestone, which has been heralded with many years of working in Nigerian foreign missions, which includes Namibia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Turkey, Syria and Cote D’Ivoire, where he worked diligently to safeguard Nigerian citizens during the political crisis in 2010.

As Ambassador Kazaure turns 60, President Buhari believes his vast experience and wisdom in diplomacy will always remain relevant, especially as issues steadily take global dimensions, urging him to stay steadfast, dedicated and committed to nation building.
The President prays for longer life for the State Chief of Protocol, and more wisdom and strength to serve his father land.

HON ABDULRAZAK SAAD NAMDAS SET THE PACE, DISTRIBUTES FOOD STUFF TO THE CONSTITIENTS:-

HON ABDULRAZAK SAAD NAMDAS SET THE PACE, DISTRIBUTES FOOD STUFF TO THE CONSTITIENTS:

APC JADA LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAPTER UNDER THE CHAIRMANSHIPS OF ALH. SAIDU SALMANA, AND NAMDAS CORDINATOR/ MEDIA TEAM JADA.

We wish to express our own profound Gratitude's and appreciations to the Hon Member of our belove constituency on his wonderful efforts been pace to his constituency, for providing the relief materials to the party the APC over his constituency at large, during the Adamawa Lockdown COVID-19.

Hon Abdulrazak  Namdas reach Out to his Constituents by Distributing Food items to his people of  Ganye,Jada,Mayo And Toungo is save sealed and Secure.
Hon Namdas urged the constituents to remains safety and abide by the rules been sets by the Adamawa state Government, while staying at home.

Signed
Mohammed Hamidu So'o
NAMDAS New Media Jada.