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Strengthen Your Role In Promoting Inclusive Development Across Africa, AMDF Tasks Media

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The 9th African Conference on Development Journalism has opened in Kaduna, North West Nigeria with a call for the media to strengthen its role in promoting Inclusive development across the continent.

Executive Director of the Africa Media Development Foundation, AMDF, organisers of the conference, Sekyen Dadik said this year’s theme ” Media, Inclusive Development: A Call To Action For Africa’s Future”, reflects the urgent need that amplify marginalised voices, support equitable growth and hold leaders accountable.

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Sekyen Dadik

She noted that the conference coincides with the International Day of persons with disabilities with first bi- session dedicated to advancing disabilities inclusion through media.

While welcoming the participants, Dadik told them that the 2 days of dialogue is aimed at using journalism to drive development, promote transparency and inspire solutions across the continent.

She expressed appreciation to partners including WADATA Media and Advocacy Centre, Sightsavers Nigeria, MTN, Kaduna State Media Corporation, KSMC and Daily Trust Foundation for supporting the conference.

In a paper titled “Amplifying Voices Bridging Gaps, the Role of Media Shaping Inclusive Africa”, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki highlighted the media’s responsibility in ensuring that all groups are represented, especially marginalized communities.

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Ahmed Maiyaki

Inclusive storytelling, Maiyaki emphasized, remains essential for Africa’s progress.

A lecturer at the University of Abuja, Dr Jamila Dahiru who spoke on “Framing Integrity Through Strategic Communication: Case Study of AGILE  and the Safe School Initiatives Program in Bauchi State, described communication as a tool for social change.
She urged the media to discard sensationalism for solution journalism to create more constructive public discourse and empower communities towards solving social issues.
Dr Dahiru said in a context like Nigeria,  especially in the North, the prevailing insecurity, poverty, gender inequality, institutional fragility and issues of corruption, needed to be brought forward for transparent strategic communication.
Dr Dahiru who noted the continued decline in public trust towards the institutions that govern them, said Strategic communication would shape perception, legitimacy and citizens participation .
“We are no more talking about passive audiences but active audiences. So there is need for active participation, dialogue and problem solving, rather than top-down information dissemination as being done”, She said.
Presenting a paper titled, “Shaping Africa’s Climate Future, The Transformative Power of Inclusive Media”, the Executive Director,  Bridge That Gap Initiative, Gloria Kasang Bulus urged the media to amplify voices that are silent and hold powers accountable .

She also stressed the need to use journalism not just to inform but to transform adding that Africa’s future depends on the narrative the media created today.

The conference, apart from presentations, is featuring panel sessions, Awards and Networking.

Nigeria: NGO Unveils EduReach App, Awards Scholarships to Rescued Abducted Students

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By Justina Auta

An NGO, StemChild Care Academy, has unveiled the “EduReach” online learning application and awarded two-year scholarships to rescued students kidnapped in Kebbi and Niger states, supporting their recovery and reintegration into formal education.

Its Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Mamu, stated on Wednesday during a press briefing and the unveiling of the app that the initiative aimed to ensure every child, regardless of circumstances, had access to quality education.

He added that the programme also sought to provide every child with the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

According to him, the EduReach online app is designed to bridge the education gap among pupils and ensure they are on par with students at similar levels globally.

Mamu explained that the app delivered both Nigerian and Cambridge curricula for primary and secondary students, covering STEM subjects, including robotics, coding, and AI.

He added that the pre-recorded lessons were taught by experienced educators and complemented by lesson notes, quizzes, assignments, live discussion forums, and personalised learning paths to support individual students.

“We have written to the respective state governments to formally extend this offer as part of our contribution to the students’ recovery and reintegration into learning.

“We urge all stakeholders to join hands in confronting the challenges that have long plagued our education sector.

“No child should be denied the right to safe, equitable, and quality education,” he emphasised.

He noted that insecurity, harmful cultural practices such as early marriage and teenage pregnancy, combined with structural challenges like poverty, continued to affect the nation’s educational system.

He cited that about 350,000 teachers served 46 million students at the basic and senior secondary levels, resulting in an alarming student-teacher ratio of roughly 130:1, far above the global benchmark of 20:1.

“These tragedies further complicate an already fragile education system plagued by outdated curricula, inadequate teacher supply, poor infrastructure, and insufficient instructional materials,” he added.

Mr Fidelis Agoundjekpo, an IT expert and Chief Software Engineer of the organisation, highlighted that students could access classes and videos, and engaged with educators, even with limited data.

“The students can participate in quizzes, submit assignments, and interact just as they would in a traditional classroom, now in an online format,” he said.

He added, “For instance, with about 200MB, a student can watch the Year One video lessons, costing around N100 or slightly more, while upper-class courses require a maximum of one gigabyte, costing around N500 or more to view an entire course.

“That is how small our bandwidth requirement is, which makes our software very unique.”

He therefore urged parents, educators, the government, and other stakeholders to ensure that students had access to the online app, enabling them to improve their education, particularly in STEM-related subjects. (NAN)

‎Nigerian Govt Provides Free Annual Liver, Kidney Tests For  HIV Positive Individuals

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By Justina Auta

‎‎ The Federal Government of Nigeria says it has begun providing people living with HIV/AIDS access to free annual liver and kidney function tests through expanded health insurance, aiming to improve long-term health outcomes nationwide.

‎Dr Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, stated this during the 2025 World AIDS Day celebration in Abuja, organised by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS and partners.

‎Salako said the initiative was part of Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen quality care for people living with HIV, ensuring earlier diagnosis, better retention in treatment, and improved health outcomes for all patients.

‎“We are moving toward full integration of HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, nutrition, and the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (NASCP) as one-stop services for children, adolescents, and adults,” he explained.

‎The minister said that during the 66th National Council of Health, the age of consent for voluntary HIV counselling and testing was reduced from 18 to 14 to increase adolescent testing rates.

‎Salako added that the NCH approved a national clinical mentorship programme, urging states to integrate mentorship into annual plans and budgets to reduce treatment loss to follow-up among people living with HIV.

‎Dr Temitope Ilori, Director General of NACA, said in spite of global disruptions, Nigeria was on track to meet the 2030 target of ending HIV, maintaining strong performance across diagnosis, treatment, and viral suppression.

‎“We have achieved an impressive 87–98–95 performance: 87 per cent know their status, 98 per cent of those are on treatment, and 95 per cent on treatment have viral suppression,” Ilori confirmed.

‎She added that Nigeria had recorded a 46 per cent decline in new HIV infections, with more people living with HIV enrolled and retained in care than ever before.

‎Abdulkadiri Ibrahim, President of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), called for stronger domestic funding, improved community engagement, and expanded access to viral load testing for better patient outcomes.

‎Ibrahim emphasised that adherence, psychosocial support, follow-up for missed appointments, and retention strategies remained critical to closing gaps in prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) and improving overall HIV management.

‎Mrs Esther Hindi, National Coordinator of the Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (ASWHAN), stressed that children continued to be born with HIV, urging expanded access to testing and treatment for pregnant women.

‎Elsie Attafuah, Acting UN Resident Representative, and Ayo Ipinmoye, Acting Chairman of the Global Fund, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting HIV prevention, treatment, civil society engagement, and strengthening Nigeria’s health system for resilience and equity.

‎Attafuah stressed the importance of domestic financing, human rights protection, community empowerment, and health system strengthening to enhance efficiency, resilience, and equitable access, ensuring sustainable HIV responses across the country.

‎“Together, we will sustain the HIV response, overcome disruptions, and build a future where every person can live with health, dignity, and hope,” she said, highlighting collective responsibility and commitment.

‎Dr Muyi Aina, Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, pledged continued promotion of accessible healthcare services nationwide to ensure equitable HIV testing, treatment, and preventive interventions for all Nigerians.

‎Activities to mark the day included awards presented to Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, and Dr Allen Onyema, Chairman and Founder of Air Peace, recognising their contributions to health and community development. (NAN)

Northern Youth Council of Nigeria Backs Gen. Musa as Defence Minister

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Urges Swift Senate Confirmation

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The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has expressed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s new Defence Minister.

In a statement signed by Sharifudeen Ibrahim Muhammad, NYCN’s National Publicity Secretary, the organization commended President Tinubu for prioritizing professionalism and good track record in the appointment.

According to the statement, the NYCN believes that General Musa’s vast experience and expertise in defence and security matters make him an ideal candidate for the position.
The organization, the statement emphasized, is confident that his leadership will enhance the country’s defence capabilities and promote peace and stability in the region.

It said the previous Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, recently resigned citing health reasons, leaving a gap in the country’s defence leadership adding that General Musa’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to address these security concerns and restore stability in the region.

“The NYCN’s endorsement is significant, given the country’s current security challenges, including mass kidnappings and attacks by Islamist militants.
“The organization has been vocal on issues affecting the nation, and its support for the new Defence Minister is expected to boost morale and promote a sense of unity in the fight against insecurity.

“The NYCN is confident that General Musa’s leadership will enhance the country’s defence capabilities and promote peace and stability in the region.

“The organization believes that the new Defence Minister has the right skills and experience to tackle the complex security challenges facing Nigeria.
“The appointment has also been welcomed by other stakeholders, who praise General Musa’s professionalism and commitment to serving the nation. His experience as Chief of Defence Staff has prepared him well for this new role, and stakeholders are eager to see him take on the challenges facing the country”.

The Youth Council therefore calls on the Senate to speedily confirm General Christopher Musa as the new Defence Minister, noting that his expertise and experience are crucial in addressing the country’s security challenges.

 

Nomination Of Former CDS As Defence Minister, Best Decision By President Tinubu – Thomas

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A Kaduna based businessman, Tobi Bernard Thomas, has hailed the nomination of the former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa for the position of Defence Minister.

Thomas who commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the choice of the former CDS, noted that his appointment was the best decision by the President.

This was contained in a statement he made available to newsmen on Wednesday.

Recall that the former Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru resigned from his position a few days ago, citing health reasons.

In his congratulatory message, Thomas expressed confidence in the capacity of General Musa to man the ministry.

Thomas further explained that the nomination of the former CDS comes amid President Tinubu’s declaration of a national security emergency, with plans to fight the lingering security challenges in the country.

He added that the nomination was in the right direction, while urging Nigerians to bury their whatever differences, and support the government in the fight against insecurity, which according to Thomas, is already eaten deep into the fabric of every sector of the country.

In the statement, Thomas appealed to the Senate to expedite action on the confirmation process, saying Nigerians expect a smooth transition that will contribute to the ongoing fight against criminality.

” Just like many have attested to his capacity, I equally have no doubt in his capacity. He is a man of integrity, a man of honor, and above all, a man of capacity,” Thomas emphasized.

Security Fund: Don’t Pacify Bandits With N19bn  Monthly Levy  – NUJ Cautions Northern Governors

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The Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists(NUJ) has called for strict transparency and proper utilisation of the proposed N19 billion monthly security fund by the 19 Northern States Governors, warning that the money must not be used to “pacify bandits.”

This was contained in a communique issued at the end of it’s monthly meeting in Kaduna, North West Nigeria which also addresses pressing state infrastructure issues and union affairs.

The Congress, attended by past leaders, veterans, and members from all chapels, expressed confidence in the newly appointed Minister of Defence, former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, while urging Northern Governors to establish a “strike force” in strategic areas to contain banditry.

The congress emphasised that the hefty N19bn monthly security levy from the 19 states must be deployed to eliminate insecurity, not negotiate with criminals.

“The Congress observed that the N19 Billion which will be gathered from all the 19 Northern States every month, though on the high side, the governors should therefore adopt proper utilization measures and transparency,” the communique stated.

It further resolved: “The money should not be used to pacify bandits but put in proper use to eliminate the menace.”

On local governance, the NUJ commended the Kaduna State Government for restoring monthly sanitation and for proactive school closures as a security measure.

However, it raised an alarm over non-functional water infrastructure, noting worries that “there is no water flowing on the pipes” despite the installation of new ones at great cost.

The Congress also called on the state government to enforce its development plan and halt ongoing constructions near major roads, specifically citing Ibrahim Yakowa Way in Chikun LGA.

It further urged its members to complement government efforts in the fight against insecurity through responsible reporting.

Regarding internal union matters, the Congress resolved to request the NUJ National Secretariat to immortalize former Governor Colonel Tanko Ayuba for his instrumental role in actualizing the Kaduna NUJ Secretariat in 1984.

It also assured members that the full accreditation of the NUJ International Institute of Journalism was at a final stage, which would aid career progression.

The resolutions from the Congress highlight the NUJ Kaduna Council’s active engagement with both national security strategies and local governance issues, positioning itself as a stakeholder advocating for accountability, practical solutions to insecurity, and infrastructural development in the state and region.

The Congress also deliberated on issues of development of the Council especially the upcoming press week which is scheduled for 13th of December 2025 to feature sporting activities, Chairman’s night, road work, conference, Muslims and Christian prayers in mosques and churches among other activities.

Nomination of Gen. CG Musa as Defence Minister, Reaffirmation of Excellence – Kad Gov

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Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, North West Nigeria, has congratulated retired Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa on his nomination as Minister of Defence by President Bola Tinubu, describing it as “well-deserved, timely, and a reaffirmation of excellence.”

In an official statement issued on Tuesday, Governor Sani praised President Tinubu for what he called “a profound vote of confidence” in General Musa’s integrity, competence, and national service record. He noted that the nomination reflects the President’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, especially at a time when the country has declared a state of emergency on insecurity.

The Governor, who said he worked closely with General Musa during his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff, described him as “a round peg in a round hole.” He commended the retired general’s discipline, strategic clarity, and humane leadership, which he credited with restoring public trust in the Armed Forces.

“For us in Kaduna State, General Musa’s nomination evokes deep gratitude,” Governor Sani said. “His wise counsel and firm support were instrumental in stabilising communities that once faced serious security challenges. The modest but significant gains we recorded bear his enduring imprint.”

Governor Sani urged the Senate to expedite the screening and confirmation of the Defence Minister–designate, stating that the nation stands to benefit immensely from his experience and patriotism.

“Congratulations, General Christopher Gwabin Musa. Nigeria salutes your service.”

President Tinubu Nominates Gen. Christopher Musa As Minister of Defence

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated General Christopher Gwabin Musa as the new Minister of Defence,  a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on
Information and Strategy has said.

In a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, President Tinubu conveyed General Musa’s nomination as the successor to Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who resigned on Monday.

General Musa, 58, on December 25, is a distinguished soldier who served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025. He won the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering in 2012.

Born in Sokoto in 1967, General Musa received his primary and secondary education there before attending the College of Advanced Studies in Zaria. He graduated in 1986 and enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy the same year, earning a Bachelor of Science degree upon graduation in 1991.

General Musa was commissioned into the Nigerian Army as a Second Lieutenant in 1991 and has since had a distinguished career. His appointments include General Staff Officer 1, Training/Operations at HQ 81 Division; Commanding Officer, 73 Battalion; Assistant Director, Operational Requirements, Department of Army Policy and Plans; and Infantry Representative/Member, Training Team, HQ Nigerian Army Armour Corps.

In 2019, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff, Training/Operations, Headquarters Infantry Centre and Corps; Commander, Sector 3, Operation Lafiya Dole; and Commander, Sector 3 Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Region.

In 2021, General Musa was appointed Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai. He later became Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps before being appointed Chief of Defence Staff by President Tinubu in 2023.

In the letter to the Senate, President Tinubu expressed confidence in General Musa’s ability to lead the Ministry of Defence and further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

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