Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

Kaduna State Commissioner for Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, has disclosed that the state government offered bandits access to education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities rather than cash payments, as part of efforts to end years of killings and kidnappings across the state.

Maiyaki made this known at a one-day workshop on Peace Journalism organised by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State, in collaboration with the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria and the Ministry of Information, Kaduna State.

He said the initiative, tagged the Kaduna Peace Model, was a deliberate shift from confrontation to conversation, focusing on restoring humanity through dialogue and development instead of financial appeasement.

‘You cannot bomb peace into existence; you must build it with trust,’ he declared.

According to the Commissioner, the turning point came when leaders of the armed groups asked the government to reopen markets, schools, and healthcare centres that had been closed due to insecurity.

‘We agreed because these are basic human needs, not ransom payments,’ he explained. ‘We didn’t give them a dime. What we gave was life back to communities long abandoned.’

Maiyaki noted that between 2015 and 2023, Kaduna recorded 1,160 security incidents resulting in 4,876 deaths, with thousands kidnapped or displaced. By 2021, 1,192 people were killed and 3,348 abducted, forcing the closure of 142 schools and 192 health facilities.

He said Kaduna, once declared a ‘red zone’ by the international community, was gradually reclaiming its image through a non-kinetic approach anchored on intelligence sharing, dialogue, and socio-economic inclusion, in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

Through the joint ONSA-Kaduna Peace Committee, he said, more than 500 captives were safely released via negotiations without any payment of ransom or resort to force. ‘We are seeing trust where there was fear, and cooperation where there was hostility,’ he said.

Maiyaki cited examples of former bandit leaders such as Jan Bros and Yellow One Million, who now act as community peace mediators, helping to maintain stability in previously volatile areas. ‘The peace model works because it is owned by the people. Communities co-create peace instead of having it dictated by government,’ he stressed.

He added that over 500,000 hectares of farmland had been recovered, with agricultural and commercial activities revived in Giwa, Birnin Gwari, and Kauru Local Government Areas. ‘Markets have reopened, and 20 to 30 cattle trucks now move weekly on roads once feared by travellers,’ he said.

Maiyaki maintained that every reopened school, clinic, or market represented a ‘victory over fear’, proving that inclusion and dialogue could achieve what brute force could not. ‘Our people wanted dignity, not pity,’ he said. ‘Once they saw sincerity, they embraced peace.’

He clarified that the process was not a one-off truce but an ongoing engagement involving district heads, clerics, and local leaders to prevent relapse into violence. ‘We are not declaring victory,’ he quoted Governor Uba Sani as saying. ‘We are declaring commitment.’

Maiyaki concluded that the Kaduna Peace Model had become a living, evolving process rooted in trust and shared ownership. ‘Peace is cheaper, deeper, and more enduring when people have a stake in it,’ he said. ‘The Kaduna experience proves that security without humanity is insecurity in disguise.’

Guest lecturer at the workshop, Mrs Fatima Omone Shuaibu, Head of Department, Strategic Communication and Media Studies, Kaduna Polytechnic, said Nigeria’s recurring conflicts stem from mismanaged diversity and leadership failure. She urged journalists to promote unity-driven narratives that emphasise coexistence over division.

In the same vein, the Country Director of Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, said peace reportage was critical to national transformation. He urged journalists to focus on solution-oriented stories that foster reconciliation, understanding, and national healing.

‘Media must be a bridge, not a barrier,’ Hayab said. ‘Every story of peace you tell helps shape public perception and strengthens our shared humanity.’

Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Kaduna State, Maryam Ahmadu-Suka, said the workshop was designed to equip reporters with tools for conflict-sensitive journalism and to promote the Kaduna Peace Model as a framework for unity and development.

She urged journalists to amplify peace-building efforts across the state and the country. ‘Together, let’s commit to responsible reporting, promoting peace, and contributing to national development,’ she said.

Kwara State Government has announced the death of former National Security Adviser to ex-Military Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, and former Chief of Staff to ex-Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umar Musa Yar’Adua, Major General Abdullahi Adangba Mohammed, who passed away at the age of 86.

General Mohammed died in the early hours of Wednesday, November 5, 2025, in Abuja, after an age-related illness.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Kwara State Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the deceased as a fine soldier, administrator, and community leader.

The governor, who joined family, friends, associates, and the people of Ilorin, Kwara, and Nigeria to commiserate with them on the loss, said the late General was a distinguished career and commissioned officer of the Nigerian Army.

General Abdullahi Adangba Mohammed was, at various times, Military Governor of Benue-Plateau State; Director-General of the defunct National Security Organisation (NSO); National Security Adviser to Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar; and Chief of Staff to former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umar Musa Yar’Adua, among other senior roles he played in Nigeria.

Governor AbdulRazaq said the death of General Mohammed was a profound loss not just to the Ilorin Emirate but to the entire nation, describing it as a painful closure of a bright page in Nigeria’s political and military history.

He sent his heartfelt condolences to the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the people of the Emirate, the family of the late General, and the military hierarchy.

Governor AbdulRazaq prayed to Allah to admit him into Al-Jannah Firdaus and grant the family the fortitude to bear the huge loss.

Also, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, Mai-Martaba Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, expressed sadness over the demise of Gen. Abdullahi Adangba Mohammed (rtd).

In a statement by his media aide, the Emir said Gen. Mohammed, popularly known as ‘Atoto’, served Nigeria diligently in various capacities and extended opportunities to the less privileged in society.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari described the former Chief of Staff to President Obasanjo as ‘a proud indigene of Ilorin Emirate and a distinguished Nigerian who used his positions, strength, and wealth to protect and promote the heritage of the Ilorin Emirate and humanity at large.’

‘He was indeed a patriotic and detribalised Nigerian whose contributions to national unity and development knew no bounds,’ Alhaji Sulu-Gambari added.

The Emir also extended his sympathy to his immediate and extended family members, the governments of Kwara and Plateau States, as well as the Federal Government of Nigeria, over his death.

He prayed Almighty Allah to grant him absolute forgiveness, accept his shortcomings, and admit him into Al-Jannah Firdaus.

Also, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, expressed sadness over the demise of the former Chief of Staff to ex-Presidents Obasanjo and Yar’Adua, General Abdullahi Mohammed, GCON, describing him as one of the founding fathers of the University.

Prof. Egbewole, in a statement issued by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, said the management, staff, and students of the University received the news of the statesman’s death with profound sadness, considering his roles in the take-off of the University and his numerous contributions to national development.

The Vice-Chancellor, who described the late General as an illustrious son of Nigeria, recalled that the nucleus of the University began in a building belonging to the late General at G.R.A., Ilorin, where its pioneer Vice-Chancellor lived.

He added that the same building was also used as the interim operational office of the University, noting that the leasing of the building to the University by the late General at that critical time rescued the institution, which was then in desperate need of a dual-purpose accommodation for its take-off.

Prof. Egbewole also recalled the administrative support the deceased gave to the University, particularly in the early 2000s, saying that as Chief of Staff to President Obasanjo, General Mohammed was highly supportive of the administration of Prof. Shuaibu Oba AbdulRaheem in ensuring uninterrupted academic activities.

The Vice-Chancellor said the late General played a vital role in ensuring that the University remained open to teaching, learning, research, and community service despite external pressures.

Prof. Egbewole expressed regret that General Mohammed died at a time when the University was preparing for its Golden Jubilee, noting that both the institution and the nation would miss him greatly.

He commiserated with the Governor of Kwara State, the Emir of Ilorin, and the Alafanla Adangba family of Ilorin over the loss of the elder statesman.

He prayed to Allah to overlook his shortcomings and reward his good deeds with Al-Jannah Firdaus.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen on called on the Chinese Government ‘to support Nigeria’s bid under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council in the spirit of solidarity and shared prosperity.

The Speaker gave the charge during a meeting with the Premier of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Li Qiang, as part of his ongoing visit to participate in the China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025, on the invitation of the Chinese Government.

Speaker Tajudeen noted that, ‘Considering Nigeria’s relevance in African and global affairs, this bid, if successful, will not only benefit Nigeria and China but also the entire world.’

He explained that as part of efforts to realise the vision of a permanent seat for Nigeria at the UN Security Council, the Nigerian parliament is seriously pursuing reforms that align with the move.

The Speaker said: ‘At home, the Nigerian legislature is pursuing reforms that align with this vision. We are strengthening public finance laws, revising trade and tax codes, and promoting innovation-friendly regulation. These efforts make Nigeria a more predictable partner and a safer destination for investment.’

Highlighting the critical role parliamentary diplomacy plays in fostering enduring relations, Speaker Abbas proposed the establishment of a Nigeria-China Legislative Cooperation Framework.

‘This will institutionalise regular dialogue between the National People’s Congress and the National Assembly of Nigeria on issues of governance, transparency, and innovation,’ he said.

The Speaker also highlighted three frontiers where partnership between Nigeria and China could be instituted in an attempt to define the future.

First, he noted, is in the area of technological sovereignty, saying, ‘The next decade will belong to those who control their data, innovate responsibly, and protect their citizens in the digital space. We seek cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital trade, and cybersecurity. These are areas where China’s experience offers both knowledge and caution.’

Second on the list is green industrialisation, where the Speaker noted that ‘the world is racing to decarbonise, and Africa cannot afford to be left behind.

Nigeria invites China’s partnership in renewable energy, sustainable mining, and low-carbon transport. The Zungeru Hydropower Project is a model we can build upon. It is proof that green growth is not an aspiration but an achievable plan.’

He said: ‘Third is human capital exchange. The friendship between nations must live through people, not just policies.

‘We propose an expanded programme for legislative staff exchange, technical training, and research collaboration between our parliaments and universities. We want to move from ‘Made in China for Nigeria’ to ‘Created in Nigeria with China.’

Noting the over five decades of Nigeria-China relations, Speaker Abbas said negotiations are at the concluding stage between the Nigerian Government and one of the leading state-owned enterprises in China for a technical and financial collaboration that will revitalise the Ajaokuta steel company.

‘When concluded, this will be the largest steel company and biggest Nigeria-China collaboration. Nevertheless, let us remember that the real value lies not in the structures themselves, but in the shared lesson that transformation is possible.

‘Nigeria’s House of Representatives has worked to ensure that this partnership rests on a foundation of law, transparency, and public accountability. We recognise that for cooperation to endure, it must be backed by credible institutions.

‘Our legislature plays a deliberate role in creating frameworks that guarantee investor confidence and policy stability,’ he said.

Speaker Tajudeen thanked the Chinese Government for the invitation, saying the CIIE ‘represents the world’s economic imagination and a proof that China continues to invest in the idea of shared progress,’ noting, ‘Nigeria stands with China in that belief.’

On his part, the Premier of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Li Qiang, stated that China and Nigeria have maintained good relations over the years, noting that efforts in recent years have made the relationship to be on a ‘fast track’ of development.

He noted that China is willing to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria in alignment with development strategies, as well as expand all-round cooperation to achieve more tangible outcomes.

Most importantly, the Premier said China is ready to work with Nigeria to actively implement the ‘Ten Partnership Actions’ for China-Africa cooperation; jointly build the Belt and Road Initiative with high quality; promote the early implementation of zero-tariff measures in Nigeria through the signing of a joint development economic partnership agreement; and elevate cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, mining, infrastructure, and people’s livelihood.

The Chinese Premier added that both Nigeria and China have large populations with enormous potential for development, noting that their economic structures are highly complementary.

He assured of China’s support for Nigeria to play a greater role in international and regional affairs, noting his country’s readiness to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Nigeria within multilateral frameworks such as BRICS, United Nations, and World Trade Organisation, among others.

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has accused a vessel of absconding from Nigerian waters after breaking the leg of a seafarer named Edafe Anthony at a jetty in Port Harcourt Port, Rivers State.

Speaking with the Nigerian Tribune exclusively, President of the Seafarers Branch of MWUN, Comrade Sunday Avoseh, explained that the Union in collaboration with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) are currently searching for the rogue vessel since the incident occurred on the 4th of October 2025.

According to Avoseh, ‘EdafeAnthony is a member of the Seafarers Branch of the MWUN. He is currently hospitalized at the Rivers State Teaching Hospital where his leg has been amputated due to the severe Injuries.

‘The unfortunate incident occurred when Edafe joined his colleagues to assist the vessel to receiving some goods. After completing the task, the crew was preparing to move the boat to prevent it from going aground.

‘The captain then instructed the engineers to start the engines and ordered the crew to release the ropes securing the ship. However, the captain allegedly engaged the engine before confirming whether all ropes were released. During this negligent act, a rope trapped Anthony’s leg.

‘Despite the crew shouting for the captain to stop, the engine remained engaged, causing severe injuries to Edafe’s leg. Anthony was rushed to the Rivers State Teaching Hospital, but his leg had to be amputated due to the severity of the accident.’

He reiterated that even though the union has not taken medical responsibilities for the affected seafarer, he has been supported financially and the hunt for the vessel is still ongoing.

Avoseh stated that unprofessional conduct of the vessel Captain led to the tragic accident of Comrade Anthony’ Edafe, adding that safety of the crew onboard any vessel should be paramount.

The position of the union is to ensure that we engage the company involved. As we speak, we have yet to identify the owner of the ship or the location of the vessel.

‘The vessel has disappeared, and NIMASA is also searching for it. However, the union has sent a representative to the Rivers State Teaching Hospital where the victim is receiving treatment.’So, the union’s position is to ensure that appropriate compensation is paid to the victim, as stipulated by PandI. MWUN and NIMASA are collaborating to ensure that NJIC engages the company for the compensation to be paid,’ Avoseh reiterated.

Veteran Nigerian musician, Innocent Onyebuchi, popularly known as Daddy Fresh, has revealed the extent of his health challenges, saying he has sold all he had while battling a prolonged illness.

In a video shared by Nollywood actor and filmmaker Kunle Afod on Wednesday, the once-vibrant singer was seen on a hospital bed, looking frail and weak. Afod, who visited him at the hospital, posted the video on his Facebook page with the caption, ‘Daddy Fresh must not die, one of Nigeria’s finest artists is in a terrible condition.’

Wearing a blue sleeveless top, Daddy Fresh appeared surprised when Afod walked in. ‘Oba,’ he said faintly. ‘It’s Afod, Kunle Afod,’ the actor replied.

In disbelief, the musician asked, ‘Na lie, how you take know say I dey here? You’re the last person I could think of. I was wondering if I was hallucinating again. Before now, there were times I looked for you but didn’t know how to get you. Afod, abi na you God send come?’

Speaking about his health, Daddy Fresh explained that he had been bedridden for over two years and that the illness had taken everything from him.

‘I started hallucinating, seeing people, those I know and those I don’t. I talk directly to them, but other people no dey see them. This one don too much o.

‘My kidney, my liver, neuropathy. Eyes, two of them get issues, I don operate on this one, e no dey see again. I no dey see you.

‘Now, I need blood transfusion. I need to buy some pints of blood. They said they need that one immediately, like two or three packs of blood because my blood dey very low, 25%.

‘If I stand up here now, I go fall, except somebody hold me. See my face, my knees, wounds because of falling, like a child that is learning how to walk,’ he said.

He further disclosed that he was facing possible eviction from his apartment due to unpaid rent.

‘Madam? Madam ke? Them don waka their waka o. I have a few days in my house because of the rent. I have to move on to where I don’t know. Them don give me quit notice. Shebi na who dey okay go know where he go sell one or two things to use pay but I no sabi do am but I wan close eye sell, even if na my television,’ he said.

Daddy Fresh also hinted that his health struggles might not be ordinary. ‘They just want to kill themselves, not me. The enemies are waiting to hear how far. All the while that I haven’t cried out to the public, they are confused, thinking if what they did has not worked.’

Despite his condition, he said Afod’s visit gave him hope. ‘For me to see people wey I no expect to see like you, e don happen.’

Afod, who gave him some money and promised to return, appealed to Nigerians and the entertainment industry to support the veteran singer.

‘This is Daddy Fresh. If you know him. You will know what I am talking about. Very handsome. Lovely voice. This man was a fantastic music artist. He has been down with sickness for over three years. I just heard about it and I decided to go see him in the hospital.

‘He said a lot of things and he was suspecting different kinds of people and areas that the sickness may have erupted from, but I just pray he recovers and gets well soon. This is not someone we need to forget.

‘I am here to solicit and beg the world, beg Nigeria as a whole, and beg the entertainment industry as a whole. Daddy Fresh is not a name that we can say we cannot remember in the entertainment industry in Nigeria.

‘We need your support. Nigerians, we need your support. Entertainers, the music industry, I am calling you people out. Please. Let’s keep him alive. I met him in a very, very bad state,’ Afod urged.