Monthly Archives: October 2025

EBBC DG, Nwizzi speaks on return of Peace in Abomege/Ishinkwo, Effium war zones

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By Uchenna Okeh Abakaliki 

The Director General of Ebonyi State Broadcasting Corporation, EBBC, Tony Nwizi, on Friday said that the governor, Francis Nwifuru is currently addressing the protracted communal crisis in the state.

He said that the lots of crisis that had rocked the state, especially in Abomege/ Ishinkwo, as well as Effium and Ezza-Effium crises are receiving attention by the governor.

“All the areas of conflict that we had before this administration, the governor delved into it, and quelled all the problems. You talk about Abomege/Ishinkwo and you talk about Effium and Ezza-Effium crises. 

“There are a lot of conflict areas. Before His Excellency came on board, but since he came, he started looking into their problems, stepping into the creeks with his legs, not just sitting in the comfort of his office to issue orders”, he stated.

He attributed the successes recorded in the implementation of the People’s Charter of Needs by the Nwifuru-led administration to the prevalence of peace in the State. 

Nwizi disclosed this, Thursday in his office in Abakaliki while interacting with journalists.

The Director General recalled that the People’s Charter of Needs which encapsulated the campaign manifesto of the Nwifuru’s administration was designed to address the actual needs of Ebonyi people and to ameliorate their sufferings. 

He explained that Governor Francis Nwifuru had through the People’s Charter of Needs agenda has addressed the needs of Ebonyi people in areas such as the payment of backlog of pensions and gratuities to pensioners who left the service since 1996.

He said, “First of all, he started with settling the arrears of gratuities of pensioners from 1996 that have been packed and packed. You know previous government did nothing about it. 

“And he paid a whopping sum of four billion naira, he started with that, to settle the arrears of pensions and gratuities of state civil servants.

“When it happened, people were like, there were people who were in the hospital and submitted their details and  they got alert while in the hospital bed, and got well automatically.

“They saw money that they had not seen all through their service years until they were old to that extent. And they saw money, they were paid in full, arrears of money since 1996. They were given very serious uplifts in their life.

He further stated that the administration of Nwifuru had also revamped the education,health, agricultural sectors and restored peace in communities that were bedeviled with crisis before he assumed office. 

Nwizi said, “First of all, he split the education sector into two, primary and secondary, and then tertiary. So, under primary and secondary.

He started with building structures in the schools. And those structures he built in the schools were to bring back glory of schools.

“To prepare for a better condition, better environmental condition for pupils and the students of secondary schools. And he started with buildings. He selected some schools and started with”, he said.

In the health sector, he revealed that the governor had made available the needed facilities for medical personnel to discharge their duties without any hitches. 

The DG said, “Some doctors complain they are dumped into the hinterlands, they don’t even have means of attending to some other things in the town, but they have vehicles to take them anywhere they want to go. 

“And that is empowerment to the doctors. Not just empowerment, it makes things easier for them to be able to take care of the people health-wise.

“So, he provided SUVs to all the doctors managing the general hospitals to make sure that they do not tamper with the ambulances to avoid that at a particular time when there will be an emergency, and  the ambulance won’t be there to take up the emergency.

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“He provided ambulances to all the hospitals. And those ambulances are brand new 2023 model of Toyota HIAS buses , which was in perfect condition to take any sick person to anywhere without hindrance” he stressed.

Lassa fever kills one, as Benue Govt shutdown private hospital, mortuary

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…. Places over 50 individuals under surveillance in two LGs.

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

At least one person has been confirmed death by Lassa fever, while over 50 identified individuals are currently under surveillance in Ogbadibo and Okpokwu local government areas of Benue State to avert occurrence of  secondary infection.

The Benue State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ejeh-Ogwuche, disclosed this to newsmen in Makurdi, Thursday.

He maintained that, for the interest of public safety and containment, he has immediately sealed off a private hospital and mortuary where the corpse was deposited  before being evacuated for burial yesterday (Wednesday), pending full decontamination, disinfection, and epidemiological investigation. 

Dr. Ogwuche explained that, a woman aged 54, was brought from Ogbadibo local government area and died on Sunday 25th October, 2025, at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, after which laboratory analysis confirmed  she died of Lassa fever.  

He maintained that State Government’s epidemic response efforts, moved swiftly to ensure public safety, containment, and restoration of order after reports indicated that the corpse of a Lassa fever victim was forcefully taken away by community youths.

“I  personally led a high-powered delegation of health officials and security operatives to Ogbadibo and Okpokwu Local Government Areas, following a confirmed case of Lassa fever and a serious breach of safe burial protocol.

“During initial response efforts, the Ministry’s Rapid Response Team was confronted by some agitated youths while trying to conduct a safe burial, and the body was subsequently taken to a private mortuary in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu Local Government Area.

“Through intensive dialogue with the family, traditional rulers, and youth leaders, the body was successfully retrieved and safely buried in Orokam by the State Safe Burial Team, in line with WHO and NCDC protocols.

“Public health safety is our top priority. The government cannot allow any act that endangers the lives of our citizens. I commend the cooperation of the local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and security agencies who stood by us to ensure this situation was peacefully resolved,” the Commissioner stated.

He  appealed to residents to avoid handling corpses of persons who die from suspected infectious diseases, and to report any prolonged fever or bleeding

Election: police deploy 3 DCPs, massive personnel to avert breakdown of laws, order

to the nearest health facility without delay, adding that Governor Hyacinth Alia, is committed to protecting lives and maintaining vigilance against public health threat.

Benue Govt commission another bakery in Gboko

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From Attah Ede Makurdi 

The Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) on Thursday commissioned another new bread factory in Gboko, Gboko local government area of Benue State.

 Speaking during during the launch of the new bread factory, Raymond Asemakaha, Group Managing Director (GMD)and Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of the company said the project was one of the ongoing economic revitalisation in the state. 

He maintained that Gboko is a vibrant and commercially strategic town in the state which requires all the necessary government support and encouragement.

According to him, the Gboko factory was the third bakery they have opened so far adding that the fourth will be in Otukpo town, in Benue Southe Senatorial District. 

“Our aim is  to turn Benue State from  a consumption-based economy into a manufacturing powerhouse, hence the bakery is a giant step in that direction. 

“We will continue to roll out projects in construction, manufacturing, and other sectors to ensure that all 23 LGAs feel the positive economic impact of the Alia’s administration. 

“To the people of Gboko, this bakery is yours. We urge you to own it, protect it, and patronise it. Let the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread be the smell of progress and prosperity for this great community,” he said. 

He commended Gov Alia for providing support and visionary leadership that has made the project, and many others a reality. 

In her remarks, Chief Elizabeth Shuluwa, Board Chairman, BIPC, said the company was only trying to stabilise prices of basic commodities for the good of the people. 

She said government was establishing the cottage industries to further create an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive. 

She said the new board will continue to support the management to succeed adding that the people should expect more from the company.

Earlier, Mrs Theresa Abeda, Deputy Head, Business Development Strategy, said one loaf of bread is sold at the N1, 100 at the factory adding that retailers are expected to sell not above N1, 300 per loaf. 

Also, Mr Alumo Orpin, Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment said the ministry will continue to work behind the scene to ensure that the company delivers on its mandate. 

Orpin said the people should patronise the bread as it was not only fresh but produce at the highest quality. 

Also Terna Ioryoosu, Company Secretary, in his vote of thanks, urged the youths to protect the factory jealously adding that it will not only provide bread but jobs for them. 

Nasarawa Youth Leaders hail Nalaraba for Empowerment, Scholarship

The Paramount ruler of Tiv nation,  Tor Tiv, James Ayatse  who was represented by Tor Jemgbagh, HRH Chief Afatyo Ajoko inaugurated the bakery.

Nasarawa Youth Leaders hail Nalaraba for Empowerment, Scholarship

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— Lawmaker unveils fresh ₦500m SME loan scheme, plans second phase of scholarships, pledges ₦100m for vulnerable health coverage

By Abel Zwanke, Lafia

The Coalition of Youth Leaders under the auspices of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Nasarawa State chapter, has commended Hon. Abubakar Hassan Nalaraba, Member representing Awe, Doma, and Keana Federal Constituency, for his consistent commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development in the state.

The commendation was made when the delegation of over 100 youth leaders from across the state, led by the NYCN Chairman Comrade Jafar M. Loko paid a courtesy and interactive visit to Hon. Nalaraba at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja Thursday.

Speaking during the visit, the NYCN Chairman expressed gratitude to the federal lawmaker, describing him as “a true friend of the youth and a visionary leader committed to human capital development.”

“We are deeply appreciative of Nalaraba’s numerous contributions toward the empowerment of young people in Nasarawa State,” the Chairman said. “His consistency in supporting educational development, skills acquisition, and entrepreneurship stands him out among his peers.”

The youth leaders lauded Nalaraba for influencing the establishment of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Keana, the only federal technical college of education in the entire North Central region, noting that over 80 percent of the institution’s staff and 95 percent of its students are youths.

He also hailed his recently launched scholarship scheme worth hundreds of millions of naira, which benefitted about 1,000 indigenous students of Nasarawa State, with each recipient receiving a minimum of ₦100,000.

“We also commend him for facilitating the Doma-Orozo Road project, a major infrastructure initiative valued at hundreds of billions of naira that will open up economic opportunities across the zone,” the NYCN leader added.

He further described Nalaraba as “a beacon of hope for young people and a leader with the passion and foresight to drive the state toward inclusive growth.”

They reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement with political leaders across the state, pledging that youths will remain “the catalyst and determinant of the next Nasarawa beyond 2027.”

In his response, Hon. Nalaraba thanked the delegation for their visit and assured them of his continued commitment to youth development, education, and economic empowerment.

“I am pleased to inform you that by January 2026, we will roll out the second phase of the scholarship programme,” Nalaraba said. “We are also setting aside ₦500 million in soft loans for small and medium enterprises to support local businesses and drive economic growth in line with Governor Abdullahi Sule’s vision.”

The lawmaker further revealed plans to contribute ₦100 million to the Nasarawa State Health Insurance Scheme to cater to the medical needs of vulnerable and less privileged citizens.

“As part of our social responsibility, we are making arrangements to partner with Governor Abdullahi Sule to key into the state health insurance scheme. This is to ensure that the health needs of our vulnerable people are taken care of,” he added.

During the interactive session, Nalaraba reaffirmed his ambition to contest the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State, saying consultations were ongoing across all zones.

“I have consulted widely and can confirm that I will be contesting the 2027 governorship election,” he declared. “I remain loyal to Governor Abdullahi Sule for his visionary leadership and inclusive governance that has improved the living standards of our people. My aspiration is to sustain and build on his achievements.”

At the close of the meeting, Hon. Nalaraba presented a car gift to the leader of the youth delegation and donated ₦10 million to support transportation and logistics for members.

Election: police deploy 3 DCPs, massive personnel to avert breakdown of laws, order

The delegation comprised representatives from various youth and student groups, including the National Youth Council (NYC), National Association of Nasarawa State Students (NASSA), National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Eggon Youth Movement (EYM), Miyetti Allah Youth Wing, Gbagyi Youth, GWADECA, Afo Youth, Igbira, Agatu, Gyede, and other associations.

Election: police deploy 3 DCPs, massive personnel to avert breakdown of laws, order

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By Daniel  Ebi,  Minna.

In an effort towards ensuring a peaceful local government election in the State ahead of Saturday’s November 1st Polls, Niger State Commissioner of Police,  CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman has deployed three DCPs to the three senatorial district of the state. 

The Commissioner of Police, in a State through the  command Spokesman,  SP Wasiu Abiodun  explained that the deployment was aimed at security monitoring and supervision in each area.

“This is in addition to massive deployment of Police personnel and operational assets including tactical teams such as 12pmf, 61pmf, Counter terrorism unit (CTU), EOD-CBRN, Special protection unit (SPU), Tactical support team (TST), Crack squad, and Anti-kidnapping unit.

 “As well as other security agencies under Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) to provide security coverage at all the 4,950 polling units and 274 wards of the 25LGAs in the State.

Consequently, an Operation Order for the election duty has been issued to all Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders and DPOs stating their specific responsibilities, particularly to escort and protect both sensitive and non-sensitive materials, and provide a conducive environment for eligible voters to exercise their franchise.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s readiness to provide adequate security for a peaceful and credible election.

 He also urged all political parties to play by the rules and warned youths or anyone who may want to foment trouble that security agencies will not hesitate to clamp down on such persons. 

Ebonyi gov’s wife enrols 10,000 pregnant women in health insurance scheme

The State Police Command high command  warned that,   the enforcement of vehicular movement restriction shall also commence from 6am-6pm on the election day, except officials on essential duties.

LG polls: NSIEC boss vows to conduct hitch-free exercise, distribute materials 

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..,As 10 political parties are participating in Saturday’s Niger LG polls

By Daniel Ebi, Minna 

The Niger state independent electoral Commission,  NSIEC has distributed sensitive materials for the local government area election slated to hold coming Saturday, November 1st, 2025.

The Nations News reports that the local government area election are to be contested by ten registered political parties in the state.

The chairman of the commission, Mohammed Jibrin Imam assured of a hitch-free exercise  while distributing  sensitive electoral materials at the Commission’s headquarters in Minna. 

He noted that. NSIEC  decided  to call all stakeholders to witness the distribution  to enhance transperancy  of the electoral process. 

Jibrin Imam stated that the non sensitive materials  had already  been duly delivered to the 25 Local Government Electoral Officers (EOs) while the distribution of sensitive materials is being done early to avoid unforseen logistically problems.

He maintained that the materials are being distributed to the 4,950 polling units, 274 wards and the 25 local government areas consisting of both councillorship and chairmanship materials for the elections.

NSIEC boss emphasized that the full constitutional processes were strictly followed to avoid complaints which has not been recorded either from the political parties, security agencies, observers among others.

He charged on the political actors especially the political parties to adhere strictly with the signed peace accord, assuring to ensure a level playing ground for all, while the commission remains open to listen to complaints.

Jibrin Imam however appreciated the election stakeholders for their support, understanding and cooperation throughout the process, urging for its sustainable in order to achieve a credible, peaceful, acceptable local government elections in Niger state.

A total of ten political parties are contesting the elections,  namely; All Progressives Congress,  Peoples Democratic Party,  Social Democratic Party,  Action Alliance,  APGA, and Accord party. 

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Others are Action Democratic Congress,  Labour party,  Boot party, and National  Resue movement ( NRM)

Ebonyi gov’s wife enrols 10,000 pregnant women in health insurance scheme

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By Uchenna Okeh Abakaliki 

The wife of Ebonyi State governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru has enrolled ten thousand pregnant women into the state health insurance scheme, EBSHA, to avert complications and maternal death during child delivery.

Mrs. Nwifuru who addressed thousands of pregnant women that hails from the 13 LGAs at the official flag- off of the EBSHA enrollment held at WDC Abakaliki, said the state government is committed to the health, safety, and dignity of every woman and child in the State. 

According to her: “The Flag-Off Ceremony of the Enrollment of 10,000 Pregnant Women into the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Scheme (EBSHIS) by BERWO Foundation.

 

“Today, we gather not only to launch a program, but also to reaffirm our collective commitment to the health, safety, and dignity of every woman and child in Ebonyi State. 

“When I stood before you early last year to launch the enrollment of 4,078 pregnant women into the same Ebonyi State Health Insurance Scheme, it was the beginning of a promise, a promise to take healthcare to every home, every ward, and every woman who needs it most.

“That first phase was a success. It gave thousands of women across our 13 local government areas the opportunity to access quality antenatal care, safe delivery, and postnatal services, all without the burden of cost. It saved lives, restored hope, and gave confidence to families who once saw healthcare as a privilege beyond their reach.

“Today, we build on that success. We are not slowing down; we are expanding the circle of care, which enrolls 10,000 pregnant women across the 171 wards of Ebonyi State, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to ensuring that no mother dies while giving life and no child is denied a chance to live healthy because of poverty.

“This intervention, spearheaded through a strong collaboration between BERWO Foundation and EBSHIA, is a health and social protection effort. It ensures that every enrolled woman receives antenatal care, delivery services, postnatal care, and emergency medical attention, all fully covered under the state health insurance plan. 

“This is not just an act of governance; it is an act of love, empathy, and faith in the strength of our women. Because when a woman is healthy, her family thrives. And when families thrive, our communities prosper.

“To our dear pregnant mothers, this initiative is for you. I encourage you to make full use of this opportunity. Ensure that you register, attend your antenatal appointments, and deliver in accredited health facilities. 

“Your safety and that of your babies are precious to us. Let this be a turning point for better health choices and greater trust in the healthcare system.

“My fellow Ebonyians, this program reaffirms our government’s commitment, which seeks to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. It is a testament to what can be achieved when government policy meets compassion and purpose. 

“We will continue to sustain this through medical outreaches, free surgeries, maternal and child health programs, and community-based health insurance drives, to ensure that no one in Ebonyi State is left without access to quality healthcare” she stressed.

20 States ZDA Chairmen, applauds Ex-Army General  for emerging a Monarch in Bauchi

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By: Ajiya Ayuba, Bauchi 

The 20 State Coalition of the Zaar Development Association (ZDA) branch chairmen on Wednesday congratulated retired brigadier general Marcus Koko Yake, as the first Gung Zaar of Zaar Chiefdom. 

This was contained in a press statement signed by the Chairman and the secretary of the association, Danny Luka Zarmi and David Elisha Yarda, which was made available to newsmen in Bauchi. 

Zarmi said that the appointment of Yake is a testament to his leadership credentials, community acceptance, and commitment to unity and progress. 

Adding that, Yake as a retired Brigadier General and former Special Adviser on Security to Governor Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir of Bauchi State, will  bring a wealth of experience to his new role.

“The Coalition of ZDA extends its warmest congratulations to Brigadier General Marcus Koko Yake on his coronation as the first Gung Zaar of Zaar Chiefdom. This historic event marks a new era for the Zaar people, fulfilling their long-standing aspirations for self-recognition and traditional leadership”

He further said that the creation of the Zaar Chiefdom and Yake’s coronation reflect Bala’s commitment to cultural inclusion, community empowerment, and justice. 

20 States ZDA Chairmen, applauds Ex-Army General  for emerging a Monarch in Bauchi

The Chairman of the coalition, said that people of Zaar now look forward to a future defined by peace, inclusion, and sustainable development under the leadership of the newly appointed Gung Zaar, retired brigadier general Marcus KokoYake.

Group Boost Campus Healthcare with ₦3.2m Medical Donation

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By Abel Zwanke, Lafia

The Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) Alumni Association has made a significant contribution to improving healthcare delivery on campus with the donation of medical consumables worth over ₦3.2 million to the institution’s medical centre.

Presenting the items, the Alumni President, Nuhu John Egya, said the gesture reflects the association’s renewed commitment to support its alma mater and promote the wellbeing of students and staff.“The donation includes essential medical consumables needed for the daily running of the medical centre — gloves of different kinds, syringes, HIV/AIDS testing kits, plasters, spirits, assorted drugs, among others,” Egya stated.

He explained that the donation represents the first phase of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening healthcare and welfare services within the university community.

“This is just the beginning. We are building a sustainable partnership with the university to ensure a better living and learning environment for all,” the Alumni President added, while soliciting continuous collaboration and support from the university management.

Receiving the items on behalf of the institution, the Vice Chancellor, Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, commended the Alumni Association for its thoughtful intervention, describing it as “a remarkable example of giving back and sustaining institutional pride.

”“The new Alumni leadership has truly redefined the essence of their association. We are proud of this partnership and assure you that the items will be judiciously used for the benefit of our community,” she said.

Liman further encouraged the association to create a digital database of its members nationwide and abroad to harness their expertise and resources for the development of the university. She also appealed for the completion of the Alumni Secretariat project, which she said would provide a conducive base for effective operations.

Observers note that the gesture underscores the Alumni’s growing role in advancing the university’s development agenda.

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Egya, who assumed office on June 4, 2025, had pledged to reposition the association and rekindle members’ commitment to the university’s progress, a promise now being visibly fulfilled through initiatives such as this.

N-HYPPADEC partner Niger govt. to boost Infrastructure, safety in Riverine Communities

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By Daniel Ebi, Minna. 

The New Hydro power producing area development Commission,  N-HYPPADEC has partnered the Niger State government agriculture programme by donating 860 13 hp hand driven power tillers and providing 4000 life jackets for riverine communities. 

Reappointed Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC,  Alhaji Sadiq Abubakar Yelwa disclosed this at the flag-off ceremony of the distribution of the items at the Commission’s headquarters in Minna on Wednesday. 

He explained that the Commision is committed to the welfare of people living within the Hydro electric producing areas by intervening in projects that will lift the inhabitants out of poverty.

According to him, the items distributed are part of the mandate of the commission to support people and communities living around areas affected by Hydro dam operations. 

” We are intervening in the area of infrastructure,  economic development and Agriculture to ensure our people are positively impacted, ” Yelwa noted.

He however explained that the Commission could not accomplish all their set goals due to funding challenges as the Hydro power stations and electricity producers are claiming that they are owed about four Trillion Naira.

” once those Funds are released,  we will work with each community and identify their needs and intervene appropriately according to their needs “

The Niger State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) to improve infrastructure and enhance the living conditions of residents, especially those in riverine communities.

Governor Umar Mohammed Bago made this known during the official flag-off ceremony for the distribution of 13HP hand-driven power tillers, life jackets, and relief materials to communities under the commission’s care.

Governor Bago Flagging -off the intervention equipment,  thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reappointing the Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Alhaji Abubakar Yelwa, describing it as a sign of the President’s dedication to the commission’s development goals.

 He also commended Yelwa’s foresight and efforts to reach out to flood-affected communities in the state.

Highlighting the state’s challenges, the governor noted that Niger is bordered by two major rivers that often overflow, causing floods and boat accidents. He stressed the need for continuous public sensitization and strict enforcement of life jacket use across all jetties in the state to reduce casualties.

“It is our prayer that with these new measures, we will reduce deaths caused by floods and boat mishaps,” Governor

 Bago said. He added that the federal government and Aliko Dangote Foundation have shown interest in supporting flood prevention projects through reputable contractors.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Niger State Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Matthew Ahmad, appreciated N-HYPPADEC’s efforts, saying the equipment would greatly boost agricultural productivity across the state. He also urged beneficiaries to use the items responsibly.

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Also speaking, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, thanked God for the initiative and commended N-HYPPADEC’s leadership for its impact on communities in Niger and other member states.