Headlines
Danbatta tasks media on national peace and unity
Nasiru Yusuf
The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Umar Garba Danbatta, has urged media professionals to continue to play their watchdog role professionally and ethically, as a rallying point for unity and security in the country.
KANO FOCUS reports that Danbatta made the call while delivering a goodwill message at the 17th edition of All Nigerian Editors’ Conference which is ongoing at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre, Abuja. The theme of the conference is, “Media in Times of Crises: Resolving Conflict, Achieving Consensus.”
The EVC noted that historically, the media have always been in the vanguard of advocacy for values that are ennobling, edifying and unifying.
He stated that accurate, unbiased reporting of national issues, especially those bordering on conflict and security matters, would promote economic development, fight corruption and ultimately improve security of lives and property in the country.
Danbatta however said, that the Commission’s Emergency Communications Centres (ECC) have become a rallying point for the promotion of the security of lives and property of citizens.
Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, director public affairs NCC and Ayuba Shuaibu, Secretary, Universal Service Provision Fund, NCC
He also revealed that the ECCs, 24 of which are currently operational in 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, processed about 34 million calls bordering on security and emergency issues in the first eight months of the year.
Danbatta, stated that the NCC is contributing to improving national security in the country through the establishment of ECCs, which offer a lifeline to citizens in times of distress. The EVC revealed that there are 23 states in the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with functional ECCs, and the centres have continued to have profound positive impact on the lives of Nigerians.
“In addition to the 23 already established and functioning ECCs, the Commission will soon activate ECCs in nine (9) more states, and also plan to inaugurate similar project in the remaining four (4) states by end of 2022, in keeping with Federal Government’s directive,” he said.
The EVC noted that in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic crisis in Nigeria, over 1,500 calls connected to COVID-19-related incidents were received and processed by the Centres.
“The Centres provided a platform for members of the public to seek life-saving information and support with regards to COVID-19 related cases by dialing ‘112’ from any of the networks. More remarkably, Nigerians have become more aware of and are using the 122 Emergency Number. Between January and August, 2021, about 34 million calls were made by Nigerians, who were seeking succor during emergencies or under other security threats and unrest within their communities,” he added.
Malam Kabiru Yusuf, Danbatta, Mr Ray Ekpu and Mr. Iyabosa Uwugiaren
Just recently, the Senate, Nigeria’s national upper legislative chamber, passed a bill to establish the Nationwide Emergency Communications Service, with 112 as primary toll-free emergency number for the country, in recognition of the importance of NCC’s emergency center projects to national security and economic growth.
He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to implementing various national digital economy policies and regulatory frameworks aimed at deepening digitization, in order to further democratise access to communication facilities by the citizenry.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
A former Governor of Kano State Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has commended the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for ordering a fresh investigation into the disappearance of activist and lecturer Abubakar Idris Dadiyata.
KANO FOCUS reports that Kwankwaso made the remarks in a statement posted on his Facebook page on Saturday following recent testimony by a former aide to an ex-state governor, who allegedly claimed that police officers were responsible for Dadiyata’s disappearance in Kaduna.
Dadiyata, a lecturer and social media commentator, was abducted in 2019, and his whereabouts have remained unknown since then.
According to Kwankwaso, he and his associates have consistently advocated for a thorough investigation into the incident and for those responsible to be brought to justice.
He described the Inspector-General’s directive for a comprehensive investigation as a “decisive and long-overdue action,” expressing hope that the process would uncover the truth behind the disappearance.
The former governor also urged police authorities to place individuals named in the allegations under close surveillance to prevent interference with the investigation.
Kwankwaso further called on the government to ensure that Dadiyata, if found alive, and his family receive adequate compensation for the trauma and hardship they have endured over the years.
He commended members of the public for sustaining advocacy efforts on the case and also praised Abba Hikima Fagge for what he described as his important role in the latest developments surrounding the investigation.
Kwankwaso expressed optimism that the renewed probe would ultimately deliver truth and justice in the case.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced that its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) remains unchanged, reaffirming its commitment to stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market.
In a statement issued by Esan Sunday, Head of Media Relations, Branding and Communication, the company said sustaining the current price reflects its efforts to cushion the broader economy against external shocks. It noted that by absorbing prevailing cost pressures, the refinery is helping to moderate inflationary risks, promote energy affordability, and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid ongoing global uncertainties.
The company reiterated its dedication to the steady supply of high-quality petroleum products to the Nigerian market, while aligning with national objectives of price stability and energy security.
It also urged the public to rely solely on official communications from the refinery for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its operations and pricing.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo on his emergence as the Deputy Governor of Kano State following his swearing-in on Tuesday.
KANO FOCUS reports that Garo was sworn in by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after being nominated to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Garo’s appointment as a positive step toward strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.
The President noted that the 48-year-old politician has held several public offices, including Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He also served as the APC governorship running mate in the 2023 general elections.
Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for the appointment, urging political stakeholders in the state to rally behind the administration to ensure stability and progress.
He also called on the new deputy governor to work closely with the governor in delivering effective leadership and accelerating development in Kano State.
The President wished Garo success in his new role.
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Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor
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