Earlier today, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya was in Yola, Adamawa State where he paid condolence visit to the family of the late elder statesman and former federal permanent secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Joda who died Thursday in Yola at the age of 91.
Governor Yahaya, in company of the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Engr Mele Kyari paid tribute to the late nonagenarian whom he described as a patriot who served Nigeria meritoriously in different positions and left behind indelible marks.
He described the death of the Alhaji Joda as a great national loss coming at a time the country is in dire need of his wise guidance and counsel.
Governor Yahaya conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family as well as the government and people of Adamawa State over the huge loss, praying Almighty Allah to grant the deceased Aljannat Firdaus.
Ismaila Uba Misilli Director-General (Press Affairs) Government House Gombe
” Sleep and food to me, were mere luxury rather than necessity of life. My only preoccupation was how to ensure the safety of my Staff and Students thereby allowing for smooth academic operations”
Prof. Njodi.
” Governing the University of Maiduguri under an insurgence ridden enviroment was like ” changing tyres on a moving Vehicle” or Erecting canopies in the vortex of cylone”
Prof. I. A . Njodi
” I make bold to say that my students were my greatest assets in my resolve to courageously defy the Boko Haram antics. The thought of my Students was akin to the thought of my Biological childrend “
Prof. Njodi
” The welfare of Students become my number one Priority. I personally visited them. Going round Lecture theatres to observed my students become a routine. I took turns in engaging some of them in conversation. I deliberately chose to dress in Jeans, T-shirts and face Caps as means of showing to most students”
Prof. Njodi
” As a Vice Chancellor, the Sucide Bomber that killed the Professor of Vetinary Medicine exploded just one street away from the VC’S official residence. The Bomb shock the building and left my family members scampering and confused “
Prof. Njodi
” Senate resolved to keep the University open and functioning. A decision adjudged to be as a result of doggedness, resilience and Sucidal Commitment “
Prof. Njodi.
” It was then, that I came to appreciate the meaning of the adage that says, ” Unusual problems requires unusual solutions” and that which which says ” necessity is the mother of invention”. We took Unusual drastic measures to ensure that the University operates and function.
… As Minister Commends Inuwa Yahaya for Being First Governor to Key into FG’s Collaborative Funding System on Water Supply
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State and the Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Sulaiman H. Adamu have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on collaborative funding of the Gombe Regional Water Supply Project.
The MoU is aimed at actualizing the rehabilitation, upgrading and expansion of the 50 Million Litres Per Day Gombe Regional Water Supply Scheme in line with Governor Yahaya’s commitment to provide adequate and sustainable water supply to Gombe metropolis and adjoining local government areas as well as improving water supply facilities/ infrastructure to meet the emerging Water demand in Gombe State in general.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Yahaya said inspite of the challenges associated with the prevailing time, his administration was able to put the Dadinkowa regional water Scheme into productive use for the benefit of the people of the State.
The Governor said through synergy with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, the Gombe Regional Water Scheme was expanded to benefit both Gombe Metropolis and environs, describing the commitment displayed by the Minister towards the full utilisation of the scheme as commendable.
“From Dadinkowa to Gombe is about 15 kilometres and the project was done at the cost of about 10 billion naira then with the support of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and since that time it has never tasted failure, yes challenges may have contributed to it operating sluggishly, but with the effort we are putting; we are maximizing its use to the extent that today on the average we are supplying the metropolis with not less than 40 million litres of water”.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya observed that the rapid growth and population increase as well as the influx of Internally Displaced Persons into the State from contiguous states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa due to insurgency, presuppose the need for the expansion of the water supply scheme to meet with the ever growing demand.
The Governor thanked the Federal Ministry of Water Resources for championing various projects aimed at improving safe drinking water to Nigerians, assuring that his administration will continue to work in partnership with the Federal government and relevant agencies in order to enhance the provision of water to the people of the State.
“Recently we signed the order banning open defecation in Gombe and we declared an emergency on Water Sanitation and Hygiene, WASH so we are working in tandem with the Ministry of Water Resources in order to actualize its ambitious projects”.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya said the Gombe State Government under his leadership will always approach the Federal Ministry of Water Resources for partnership in areas that can be beneficial to the people of the State and the Federal government.
He however expressed concern with the slow pace if the third National Urban Water Sector Reform Project which Gombe State has keyed into and paid its counterpart fund, urging the Minister to intervene with a view to pursuing it to its logical conclusion.
The Minister of Water Resources Suleiman Adamu said in meeting with challenges of water supply to Nigerians the Federal Government adopted numerous strategies to improve service delivery in the sector.
One of such strategies, the Minister explains was to foster improved partnership of implementation with States in line with the National Water and Sanitation policy that has been in place since year 2000 and reinforced by the National water policy that was approved under the present administration.
“The centre piece of the policy was the provision of sufficient portable water and adequate sanitation to all Nigerians at an affordable and sustainable way through participatory investment by the three tiers of government, the private sector and the beneficiaries themselves”.
“To enable us operationalize this laudable provision of the policy, I initiated way back in 2017, a budget line titled “COUNTERPART FUND FOR URBAN WATER SUPPLY IMPROVEMENT IN LINE WITH NATIONAL WATER SUPPLY POLICY” in the annual Budget of my Ministry. I am pleased and encouraged that Gombe State Government is the first to tap into this budget line in accordance with our vision. I urge other States to emulate this BIG handshake with the Jewel in the Savannah!”
He said this was envisaged to improve system coordination and engender court sharing arrangements for the execution of capital projects and sustainable operation and maintenance of existing facilities, saying under this policy the court sharing in Investment for water supply is such that the Federal Government will contribute 30 percent of the project capital cost while States and Local Government will Finance the balance of 70 percent.
“There is no gainsaying the numerous benefits derivable from this project if vigorously pursued to its full implementation. I am sure the people of Gombe township and its environs will witness a new lease of life with other attendant benefits such as improved health, improved school enrolment as children will spend less time fetching water from streams and other unsafe sources; job creation as well as operation and maintenance of the water facility”.
The Minister commended the efforts and positive disposition of Governor Inuwa Yahaya towards the realization of these noble goals, assuring him of the Ministry’s support towards the full implementation of the MoU.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Gombe State Commissioner for Water Resources, Mijinyawa Yahaya, Special Adviser to the the Governor, Abuja Liaison, Usman Aliyu Garry and other officials of the ministry and those of Gombe State Government.
Ismaila uba Misilli Director General ( Press Affairs) Government House Gombe
UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT IN AN INSURGENCY RIDDEN ENVIRONMENT:EXPERIENCES OF UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI DURING THE BOKO HARAM UPRISING
1.0 Protocol 1.1 INTRODUCTION Like all aspects of human endeavour, the management of state affairs otherwise, popularly known as governance, requires a peaceful, rancour-free and conducive environment to thrive. Throughout human history, the major challenges faced by public office holders are how to organize, operate and manage human beings and resources in communities, states, nations and indeed institutions, devoid of conflict. The search for the ideal state of affairs since the beginning of modern civilization has lead to the postulation of various conspiracy theories, ideologies, strategies and methods. Some of these have worked to solving man’s ever changing and dynamic issues and some don’t seem to work. Scholars of social and political science have made attempts to classify these political ideologies/strategies as socialism, communism, capitalism and so on. These utopian ideologies were experimented and are still being experimented in various parts of the world. But in all these experimental adventures one stand very clear; the human beings as a social and intelligent creature, is a very difficult variable/creature to predict, control, manipulate or satisfy. Consequently, conflicts of interest has remained the vain of most human existence and settlements which remain the major factor responsible for the destruction and reconstruction of nations, communities, societies and their institutions throughout human history. These conflicts mostly arise because of divergent views and interest intersect of individuals, groups, communities and nations which find expression in armed struggle, civil unrest, insurgency and even full scale wars. Sadly, the overall outcome of these situations is the disruption and destruction of developmental processes and the ultimate retardation of all indices of human development and progress. 2.0 UNIVERSITY GOVERNANCE IN AN INSURGENCY Definition of Terms: Governance in general:- The word “governance” came from the Latin word “gubernae” or more originally from the Greek word “kubernaein” which means to “Steer”. Based on its etymology, governance refers to the manner of steering or governing, or of directing and controlling, a group of people or a state. Governance is essentially related to politics, since politics is often defined as the act of governance; just as politics talk about governments, institution, power, order, and the ideals of justice. Governance also deals with the public sector, power structures, equity, and ideals of public administration. Nevertheless, they are distinct from each other in the sense that politics is broader than governance.
Concept of University Governance:- Governance in University setting is commonly defined as the exercise of power or authority by the Chief Executives/Vice Chancellors for the wellbeing of their staff and students. It is the complex process whereby some sectors of the University wield power and enact and promulgate policies which directly affecthuman and institutional interactions, academic, and economic and social developments. The power exercised by the participating sectors of the University is always for the common good, as it is essential for demanding respect and cooperation from the staff and students. As such a great deal around University governance is the proper and effective utilization of resources.
Insurgency:- Insurgency is from the Latin word “insurgentem”, literally meaning “to rise against”. In this sense, an insurgent is considered as a fighter who rises against the people in power. Often insurgents are considered as terrorists because they use violence to intimidate people. Insurgency is therefore an organized movement aimed at the overthrow of a constituted government through the use of subversion and armed conflict or struggle. It is an act of rebellion against a constituted authority.
Mr. Chairman, distinguished personalities, permit me to categorically state that Governing the University of Maiduguri under an insurgence ridden environment was like “Changing tyres on a moving vehicle” or “Erecting canopies in the vortex of a cyclone”. The Boko Haram insurgency effectively started in 2009 on a protest against Government’s policy to impose the use of crash helmet by motor cycle riders. A clash between the protesters and security agencies resulted in the death of some motor cycle riders who were believed to be members of an Islamic group led by Muhammad Yusuf. The protest which turned violent and deadly reached its peak in 2015. The purpose of this presentation is however, not to delve into the history of Boko Haram insurgency but rather, to deal with lessons learnt and share with the public my experiences as the Vice Chancellor during the unfortunate development in terms of challenges of governance as it affect the overall running of the University. 3.0 EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS FROM THE BOKO HARAM UPRISING IN THE NORTH-EAST REGION The experience of governance or the management of University of Maiduguri affairs in the face of widespread and spontaneous terrorist’s attacks was, to say the least, a very traumatizing and mind boggling one. No doubt, the crisis created a whole gamut of challenges in which academic activities and development were almost totally arrested or halted due to the absence of peace. These challenges are broad based, some of which were:- Elimination of the ease of governance and doing business in the University (Governing Council, Senate and other major organs). Dislocation of Research and other academic activities. Dislocation of staff and students from the town into the campus (Housing/Hostel problems). Destruction of socio-economic infrastructure. Loss of income to the University and staff members. Increase in the cost of governance. Loss of social activities for staff and students. Widespread apprehension and fear among staff and students. Disruption of committee system in the running of the University. Change of mind-sets of staff members thereby causing attrition.
These colossal negative impact of the insurgency activities on the region compelled the University management under my watch to evolve new means of addressing the problems through the creation of new policies and strategies. It was then, that Icame to appreciate the real meaning of the adage that says, “Unusual problems require unusual solutions” and that which says “necessity is the mother of invention”. We took unusually drastic measures to ensure that the University operates and function. Some of these measures include:- All Governing Council meetings/functions were held in Abuja. Senate resolved to keep the University open and functioning. A decision adjudged to be as a result of doggedness, resilience and suicidal commitment. The Federal Ministry of Education could not understand why the institution refuse to close amidst unbaiting deadly attacks on the campus by the insurgency. We resolved to maintain a stable academic calendar. All social gatherings including sports were suspended. All extra curricula academic activities such as Inaugural and public lectures were suspended. Senate meetings were suspended and in its place a Senate Business Committee was constituted, mandated, enlarged and invigorated to handle all Senate Business matters for the consideration of the Chairman of Senate. Top Management Committee was enlarged and met weekly to review situations. The Committee of Provost, Deans and Directors was strengthened to meet at least monthly to consider submissions of Top Management Committee and also review submissions to the Governing Council. Computer Based Tests, popularly called e-examinations were introduced and encouraged to avoid delay in the conduct of examinations and large crowd that may attract the attention of suicide bombers. All outstanding and unsigned Certificates were signed and made ready for collection by Graduands. None issuance of certificates was a frustrating situation. All Guests Houses on campus became temporary staff quarters. More students were allowed into the hostels on campus. A typical room normally for six (6) students had to accommodate an average of ten (10) students. The University sort for and was granted a temporary status of an Internally Displaced Persons Camp (IDP) largely because many people moved into the campus for safety. A house for six (6) people was essentially occupied by an average fifteen (15) people. All forms of services and utility facilities were over stretched.
4.0 SOME NECESSARY DRASTIC SECURITY MEASURES In war-like situations such as the Boko Haram Terrorism, some unusually painful and drastic measures were necessary to save lives and property. This is more so since the terrorists employ different types of tactics to cause harm including death to innocent people. As Vice Chancellor, after wide consultations with the University security committee, I directed the closure of all major and pedestrians entry gates into the University except one. This allowed only University staff to come into the University using vehicles. At the height of bombing attacks and fears, staff members were not allowed to go out with their vehicles. They were mandated to park their vehicles within the University premises, and use other means of transportation to attend to their demands outside the University. Similarly, students and visitors were not allowed to come into the campus with their cars or any means of transportation. Cars were parked outside the campus, and all pedestrians were thoroughly searched for any suspicious items in pockets, in clothes and in bags. At a point, even big veils and khimaar were temporarily banned. All types of bags were prohibited and banned. All other considerations were put aside, after all only the living can enjoy life including practising any religious obligations. Mr. Chairman, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, our situation was so dire, confusing, difficult and traumasing that we requested for the presence of the conventional security personnel in addition to the University internal security men to beef up the security network on campus. The soldiers, mobile policemen, DSS, and even the Air force numbering over 300, were brought into patrol and man the perimeter fences of the University. The University is on a 9 kilometre radius piece of land, most of which was porous, without fence. We discovered that the Boko Haram used the immediate bushes close to the University as their routes to and from Sambisa Forest. Using my connections with the then Chief of Army Staff and also the Chief of Air Staff, both of who are Alumni of the University of Maiduguri (Maid in Unimaid product), we secured their sympathy and support to secure the University and save it from any harm. While the Soldiers were visibly strategically stationed in their surveillance tranches, towers and tangos, the airforce provided a 24 hours aerial surveillance. The DSS deployed their men to provide 24 hours support and surveillance. The University security men were mandated to provide presence to monitor security situations all over the campus including the academic areas, offices, hostels, lecture rooms, halls and theatres. As a further strategy to tackle easy access to the campus by the insurgents, three (3) separate tranches were created round the University perimeter fence covering about 19 kilometres. This according to the military, was to slow down a possible invasion of the University by the terrorists using vehicles. Mr. Chairman, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, my role as Vice Chancellor, (Commander-in-Chief) in all these was to coordinate, analyse, review and restrategize all security arrangements on a 24 hours basis. Consequently therefore, Sleep and food to me,were mere luxury rather than a necessity of life. My only preoccupation was how to ensure the safety of my staff members and students thereby allowing for smooth academic operations. While all these were happening, Inever lost site of our regulatory agencies (Federal Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission), as well as the Borno State Government being our host. Situation reports were forwarded for noting and necessary directives. This helped to keep University of Maiduguri to remain on the MAP of Nigeria. We were not unmindful of the question that was often asked: Why can you close the University? Indeed, the risky and suicidal decisions and policies we took such as not allowing the University to CLOSE FOR EVEN A DAY helped to stabilize the security situation and served as a clear case of DEFIANCE to the devastating ideals of Boko Haram which is against Western Education. I am today a PROUD MAN because the decision and actions we took, risky and dangerous as they were, have given rise to an atmosphere of new thinking in both government and civil society circles as to how best to address the Boko Haram insurgency, secure and restore lasting peace and prosperity in the region. More than ever before, the singular decision of the University Management not to close the institution because of Boko Haram has helped to provide the basis for the emergence of stronger synergy between governments and civil society organisations. The result today is the birth of citizens oriented projects and programmes such as rehabilitation/ constructions of housing, agriculture and road infrastructure, schools and other educational institutions across the North-East regions. Governance at both public and private domains has become very inclusive and security conscious. University of Maiduguri became a shining example of how to defy terrorism and extremism.
5.0 SUCIDE BOMBING AND THE PSYCHE OF STAFF MEMBERS AND STUDENTS Mr. Chairman, Distinguished Professors, Ladies and gentleman. One of the most asked questions is how were you able to handle or manage the cases of suicide bombing on campus? First of all we need to understand what suicide bombing is and why the extremist/Terrorist use it. Suicide bomb attack is carried out by a person, especially a terrorist, with the intention or expectation to kill themselves as well as other people. Suicide bombing is also defined as an act in which an individual delivers explosives and detonates them to inflict the greatest possible damage, killing himself or herself in the process. Suicide bombings are particularly shocking on account of their indiscriminate nature, clearly intending to kill or injure anyone within range of the explosion, the victims being mostly unsuspecting civilians and because of the evident willingness of the bombers to die by their own hands. Suicide bombing is deliberately employed by terrorist for calculated political effect. Indeed, because suicide bombers have the ability to move, avoid security measures, and choose their targets, they have been likened to a human “Smart bomb” or “poor man’s Smart bomb”. Many have fondly referred to suicide bombers as “Messengers of Death”. The act instills fear in even those not directly affected and directs attention to the cause. Suicide terrorism creates a sense of horror and fragility throughout the affected society. Being in the epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East, University of Maiduguri Campus also experienced some devastating incidents of suicide bombing. The underlying intention was basically to instill fear and force the closure of the University. However, I must admit that our decision not to close came with a supreme prize. We lost a Professor of Veterinary Medicine, some members of academic and non- academic staff as well as students to the Suicide bombers. In all, the total number of death stood at nine (9). It would be noted that in all the cases of Suicide bombing, the terrorists were also killed. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentleman, I must admit that the Suicide bombing activities really traumatized me as the head of the party and indeed sometimes left me helpless but most importantly dogged resolute and focused to absorb the menace of the insurgents. We lost some of our finest brains in Geology and Geo-Sciences while carrying out some NNPC sponsored baseline researches for the exploration of oil and gas products around the Lake Chad area (Gajiganna). In the incident we lost three (3) academic staff and three (3) drivers and scores of security personnel in what appeared to have been an ambush and possible sabotage against the country Nigeria, which merely took advantage of the Boko Haram insurgency. As a Vice Chancellor, the suicide bomber that killed the Professor of Veterinary Medicine exploded just one street away from the VC’s official residence. The bomb shock the building and left my family membersscampering and confused. It happened in the early morning when Muslims were in the Mosque performing the early morning prayers. I was also praying in a Mosque in the VC’s official residence. Some conspiracy theorists have tried to link the early morning suicide attack to a possible attempt to eliminate the Vice Chancellor. While sympathizing and condoling the families of the deceased, I remain grateful to God for sparing my life to share the story of our ordeals, and how were managed Unimaid with you today.
6.0 SOME EXTRA ORDINARY STRATEGIES TO PREVENT ATTRITION OF STAFF DURING THE INSURGENCY Mr. Chairman, Distinguished Professors, Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, you will recall that I had earlier said that some unusual situations require unusual strategies and solutions. As the one in the driver’s seat in our struggle to mitigate the devastaging impact of the Boko Haram activities on our psyche and by implication, the general academic atmosphere, I decided to adopt some critical strategies to help contain the serious cases of attrition of staff from the University of Maiduguri. Understandably so, some of our colleagues felt sufficient threatened and scared to remain in Maiduguri as the insecurity situation escalated. I decided on an aggressive approach to ease the rigorous procedures for employment of Professors and other senior Academics. I also encouraged and hasten the process of staff promotion and remuneration. Promotion of staff for Professorial Cadre received my special attention. I decided to personally call the would-be external assessors to plead for understanding and request them to expedite the assessment and return not later than three (3) months. This helped to fast-track the process of promotion thereby helping to keep most of the senior academics. I made sure that payment of arrears and implementation of the promotion benefits were taken seriously. In addition, housing for our Professors received the highest priority. New houses were constructed and the existing ones were rehabilitated to meet the minimum standard for a Professorial quarters. I deliberately encouraged and engaged our senior colleagues in extra-curricula assignments within and outside the University, some even outside the country. I did everything possible to encourage teamwork where everybody felt as a member of the Unimaid family. I liberalized the process of engaging sabbatical and visiting Lecturers to the University. Those coming were given the option of travelling by air to help allay the fear of the unknown while coming by road. These were costly ventures, but they appeared to be the best option in our circumstance. Sabbatical and visiting staff members were given accommodation on campus. Our Commercial Guest Houses were converted to living houses. We requested NUC to grant Unimaid waiver for academic programme accreditation. These and many other strategies and incentives helped to contain the cases of attrition among our academic and non-academic staff members, and thereby salvaging our academic.
7.0 THE PLACE OF STUDENTS IN THE STRUGGLE TO KEEP UNIMAID OPEN The fight against terrorism requires all hands to be on deck. You can help reduce the chances of a terrorist attack by enlisting everybody to keep an eye out for suspicious situations, such as an unattended suitcase or bag or someone with a conspicuous level of interest in specific buildings such as lecture halls/theatres, hostels, staff quarters etc. With these in mind, I decided to engage and involve the students, after all as their “in loco parentis”, I must do everything possible to keep them safe. The welfare of students became my number one priority. I personally visited them in their hostels, eating and exchanging pleasantries with them. Going round Classes, Lecture halls and Lecture theatres to observe my students became a routine. I took turns in engaging some of them in conversation. I deliberately choose to dress in jeans, T-shirts and face caps as means of showing to most of the students. Mr. Chairman, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, these simple gestures were openly and genuinely appreciated by the students. They saw in the Vice Chancellor someone who cares and understand their worries. Apart from keying into the fight against insurgency, the students supported most of the policies/strategies put in place such as the uncompromising academic calendar and the e-examination. Students jealously supported these and did their best to report any suspicious person that could harm the system thereby affecting the academic calendar. I make bold to say that my students were my greatest assets in my resolve to courageously defy the Boko Haram antics. The thought of my students was akin to the thought of my biological children. Some of you that are here with us please know that I STILL LOVE YOU ALL. I call on all of you to productively and jealously guard the experiences learnt from University of Maiduguri resistance anddefiance of the Boko Haram to redefine our paradigm for countering extremism and terrorism around the world in a manner that is both comprehensive and cost-effective.
8.0 ENGAGING STAFF AND STUDENTS UNIONS AND ASSCIATIONS Managing a University in times of crises such as the Boko Haram Insurgency requires an all-inclusive approach. In essence, the University Manager must carry every individual, groups, unions and associations along. You cannot afford any dissent or divergence. My office as well as my official residence were kept widely open to unions and associations. This singular gesture helped to contain any misunderstanding and distractions in managing our situation. Apart from providing the much needed synergy among all interest groups in the University, the strategy served as one of the most potent and productive surveillance initiative. Unions/Associations leaders were fully engaged and involved in sustained surveillance for any suspicious people, actions and behaviours. Our experience revealed a close alliance between Unions and our internal security networks. Our surveillance reports were forwarded to the larger national security network for scrutiny and necessary follow-up. The full compliance of staff and students to the new situations has earned the University of Maiduguri the respect of all and sundry. The slogan of being the most difficult and harsh environment/institution to study was fondly appreciated by the students. Accordingly the coinage of the slogan IF YOU WANT TO BE MADE, COME TO UNIMAID!!! Became popularly and inspiring. This is because only the courageous, fearless, focused and dogged can study at UNIMAID. 9.0 CONCLUSION Boko Haram insurgency activities have no doubt changed the dynamics of live and living standards of the people of the North-East region as well as the act of governance in a very significant dimension. For the people of the region, life will never be the same again. For governments in the region, and the University of Maiduguri in particular, governance will continue to pose greater challenges that will require courage, creativity, patience, resilience and skilful statesmanship. The Vice Chancellor, apart from the conventional duties of superintending over academic and research endeavours, staff and students affairs have an added responsibility of interfacing with the larger national security networks to fight terrorism and insurgency. On the whole, I can categorically say that, a new normal has emerged in the governance of higher institutions in the North- East region of Nigeria which will require far reaching paradigm shifts in the process of selecting and appointing University administrators. If the Maiduguri lessons are anything to go by, it will be right to conclude that University governance requires an extra-ordinary understanding of all the dynamics of evolving trends in the society, and most importantly, thinking outside the box. THANK YOU.
In a bid to facilitate routine and improved airline operations, the Gombe State Government has collaborated with Air Peace Airline Company on commencement of additional flight operation in the state.
In his address during a reception to mark the maiden flight of the airline at the Tarmac of Gombe international airport, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya said the state was desirous of development and was working towards it considering the significant role transportation plays in economic development.
He said his administration deemed it necessary to parley and attract more airline companies in Gombe, citing the designation of Gombe as the best in ease of doing business and its prevailing peace and security as enough encouragement to attract investors for a better deal.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Dr Manassah Daniel Jatau, said the state government would continue to encourage partnership with stakeholders on essential services that are beneficial to the citizens and the state’s economy.
“Air Peace airline company is in the state that cherishes peace, preaches peace, practises peace and working continuously for the maintenance of peace knowing fully that PEACE is the bedrock of all human ventures”, the governor said.
The general operations manager of Air Peace, Mr Ayodeji Adeleye, explained that the company extended operations to Gombe following the support and reassurances by the state government.
“Be rest assured that this new route will be effectively serviced. Gombe residents will greatly benefit from it, we will work jointly with all stakeholders in the state to maximize the gains of Gombe route, including employment creation,” he stated.
“Today, we flagged off flight operations to Gombe from Lagos and Abuja amidst fanfare and celebration. We appreciate the Gombe State Government and other stakeholders for making this happen”.
“You can book your next trip to Gombe on http://www.flyairpeace.com and enjoy our signature hospitality”.
… Assures of Synergy with DHQ to Tackle Insecurity
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, earlier today visited the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja in furtherance of his engagements towards ensuring that peace and security continue to prevail in Gombe State.
Governor Yahaya, who spoke to newsmen shortly after the meeting on the comforting role the State is playing towards hosting of Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs from neighbouring states of Borno Yobe and Adamawa, decried the effect of insurgency and its resultant consequences on Gombe state, especially in putting a strain on its ability to adequately deliver essential services to the people.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya observed that the State is beginning to experience the effects of some un-profiled individuals who have relocated to the State to settle.
“Secondly whenever pressure is put on the insurgents in a bit to move they relocate and come up to settle around Gombe that is why we need to do the correct thing by putting up a proper safeguard so that we don’t allow the negative effects of insurgency to come and infiltrate and get settlement in Gombe”.
He said, “given the current dynamics of insecurity, it behoves on all of us to work together to aid our security personnel in the fight against all forms of criminality”.
The Governor said his administration will ensure that the De-radicalization and Rehabilitation camp in the State run by the Nigerian Army for repentant Boko Haram insurgents is given all the necessary support to operate effectively for the benefit of its clients and the people of the State.
On his host’s response to the prayers made, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described their engagement as positive and fruitful, saying a window of discussion has been opened for the betterment of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Governor Yahaya was accompanied on the visit by the Senator representing Gombe North, Sen. Saidu Ahmed Alkali, Special Adviser to the Governor on Abuja Liaison, Hon. Usman Aliyu Garry and other aides.
Ismaila Uba Misilli Director-General ( Press Affairs) Government House Gombe
The concepts of peace and social cohesion are fundamental and perhaps inseparable in the dictionary of any society which hopes to advance the course of humanity in general. Over the years, but more recently, Nigeria is arguably undergoing one of its worst security, economic and political challenges in history. It would be adequate to say these challenges are threatening the corporate existence of the nation with secessionists agitating and advocating for self-determination.
On the religious front, suspicion and distrust between the two major religions of Christianity and Islam now appear to be the order of day largely due to manipulation by some self-serving elites for reasons best known to them. Despite so many efforts to address these challenges, these issues, coupled with ineffective leadership, continue to rare their ugly heads in the Nigeria State with no end in sight.
However, the 3rd national summit on peaceful co-existence and social cohesion, organised by the Da’awa Coordination Council of Nigeria (DCCN) in Gombe State recently may perhaps be one of such frantic fora the nation needs to truly redeem itself from the consistent chaos leading to bloodletting and other heinous crimes and criminality mostly linked to religion and ethnicity.
The 2-day summit had in attendance the Sultan of Sokoto and President-general of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar lll, the governor of Gombe State, His Excellency, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and some eminent personalities across the country. The former Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, was also in attendance and delivered a keynote address. Other Christian leaders in Gombe State were also invited to the sole Muslim summit to give their perspectives on peace and social cohesion, particularly between the two major religions in the country.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Governor Yahaya and other speakers at the summit emphasised the need for mutual understanding among the adherents of the two major religions. For instance, the Sultan of Sokoto, while addressing participants at the Summit, said, “It is a very important conference because all the Muslim groups will sit down, discuss on what is the way forward for the Muslim ummah in the country, strategize on how to achieve stability and development in this great country that Allah put us together as Muslims, Christians and Atheists, people who don’t even believe there is God. We most all live together peacefully, that is one of the reasons why this conference goes round”.
He said Nigerians can work together and forge a common front when they understood each other, stressing the need for understanding and mutual respect among the adherents of the two major religions in the country. He equally challenged leaders at all levels to be fair and just to all Nigerians irrespective of their ethno-religious affiliation.
For Governor Yahaya of Gombe State, it was a moment to remember with nostalgia the peace, tranquility and harmony that had existed between Christianity and Islam. He however regretted that those good old days appeared to have long gone, especially with the current continuous manipulation of religions by some elites to cause chaos which is now threatening the fabric of the nation. In Governor Yahaya’s words, “His Eminence has spoken and I agree with him that things are not normal in this country and it is our own making; God has provided all the basics that we need in order to have peaceful and harmonious relationships but may be for the greed of some elites who are only good at destroying and not producing”.
According to Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, the selfish interest of a few who manipulate the gullible Nigerians into religious and ethnic violence led Nigeria to its present predicament. He gave the assurances that his administration would continue to ensure the sustenance of peace, but advised everyone to be cautious of the lawlessness in the country so that at the end of the day it does not consume the nation.
“This fight is everybody’s fight. We must come together, we must join hands and we must struggle to make sure we succeed because nobody else will come and do it for us. The only thing for all these crises, Your Eminence, is tied to the elites and leadership, both traditional and political,” Governor Yahaya said.
Same sentiments were re-echoed by the representative of Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Reverend Father Joseph Shinga, in a Key note address, and so did other speakers from both the Christian and Islamic faiths. Indeed there is no gain saying the fact that the social, economic, political and security standing of Nigeria is at its lowest ebb. Any effort therefore to sincerely turn around the fortunes of the country no matter how little such effort may be will no doubt go a long way to make the difference at least if not now but in the next generation to come. That is why it is pertinent at this juncture to commend Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for demonstrating avowed commitment to promoting harmony and peaceful coexistence by naming two newly constructed roads in honour of Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar and John Cardinal Onaiyikan.
The 2-day Da’awa Coordination Council of Nigeria, DCCN’s 3rd National Summit for peaceful coexistence and social cohesion may have come and gone but the initiative once again stressed the importance of peace and unity, particularly in a country where ethno-religious conflicts appear to be the order of the day at the slightest provocation.
As Muslim Ummah in Gombe State join other faithful across the world Tuesday 10th August to mark the commencement of the Islamic New Year 1443 AH, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has urged the faithful to use the period to refect on their past deeds and recommit themselves to Almighty Allah and the country.
In a congratulatory message, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described the Islamic New Year as significant in the life of Muslims, calling on them to use the occasion to offer prayers for the peace, growth and prosperity of Gombe State and Nigeria.
“We, therefore, must use the opportunity, especially in the sacred month of Muharram and beyond, to pray fervently for our dear state and the nation as well as for those in authority at all levels as we collectively fight to tackle the threat of insecurity and other socio-economic challenges facing us today”, Governor Inuwa admonished.
Ismaila Uba Misilli Director-General ( Press Affairs) Government House Gombe
…As Sultan of Sokoto Commissions Road Named After him in Gombe Metropolis
…Governor Inuwa Also Names Road in Honour of Cardinal Onayaikan
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State says the “Network Eleven Hundred” road project which his administration is currently championing was initiated to boost economic activities and social interaction.
The Governor, stated this when he led the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar lll to Commission a road named after the Royal father in Gandu quarters of Gombe metropolis.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya noted that the “Network Eleven Hundred”, which seeks to build at least one hundred kilometres of roads in each of the eleven Local Government Areas of the State, was part of his administration’s holistic approach to put the State on the path of sustainable growth, development and shared prosperity. He said already, a significant milestone has been recorded in the execution of the road projects with virtually all the local government areas being connected with standard road networks.
He told the Sultan that Gombe State Government under his leadership will not relent in executing projects that have direct bearing on the lives of the people.
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar lll expressed gratitude to the Gombe State Governor for naming a newly constructed road in his honour.
The Islamic spiritual leader used the ceremony to commend Governor Inuwa Yahaya for exhibiting courage in leadership and his holistic approach to development.
Earlier, the Gombe State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr Abubakar Bappah had told the visiting Sultan that the newly constructed road formed part of the phase 6 of township road network project being executed by the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
He said same applies to urban, semi urban and rural areas across the State in fulfillment of the Governor’s “Network Eleven Hundred” initiative.
In a demonstration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s avowed commitment to promoting harmony and peaceful coexistence, a newly constructed road at Herwagana quarters was commissioned and named in honour of John Cardinal Onaiyikan, former Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Archdiocese.
The naming of both roads in honour of the two Eminent personalities coincided with the 3rd National Summit of Peaceful co-existence and Nation Building organised by the Da’awa Coordination Council of Nigeria, DCCN to which the Sultan was in the State and to which the former Catholic Archbishop of Abuja was also invited to deliver a key note address.
Ismaila Uba Misilli Director-General ( Press Affairs) Government House Gombe
…As Gombe Governor Names Road in Honour of President- General of NSCIA
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar lll has described Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya as a truthful, passionate, accountable and steadfast leader with passion for peace, unity and development of his state and Nigeria.
The Sultan of Sokoto passed the compliments when he paid a courtesy visit on the governor at his official residence in Gombe.
Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar who also described Governor Inuwa as a long standing ally, saying he has been following the governor’s laudable achievements on several developmental projects in the last two years.
The spiritual leader of Muslim faithful in Nigeria noted that as a long standing close confidant to the governor for nearly four decades, he will continue to encourage him to do more of such gigantic projects and will equally advise him to correct and improve on his shortcomings, if any.
He assured that in no distant time he will pay a visit to the state to fully appreciate the excellent work of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
The Sultan also enjoined leaders at all levels in the country to put in more effort in order to tackle insecurity, poverty hunger and all the negative indicators confronting the Nigerian State.
The NSCIA President- General added that the traditional institution exist to always guide and advise political leaders and not to criticize or cast aspersions on them.
“We do not criticize leaders, we advise them, we critique their activities because criticism is different from critique so when you are doing something right we pray for you and push you to do more and when you are doing wrong as a human being, we’ll advise and caution you on what you are supposed to do and if the Almighty makes it happen for you to do what we advise and it becomes good for us we thank you and if you don’t we have discharged our responsibility very well”.
The Sultan of Sokoto was also of the view that traditional institutions will not shy away from constantly advising leaders to be just and do right to all manner of people irrespective of tribal or religious affiliations.
He noted that both the traditional and political institutions in the country are partners in progress and not competitors, saying the two parties should continue to have a healthy working relationship for the benefit of the Nigerian people.
He emphasized the need for leaders at all levels to fear Allah knowing fully well that he is the one that gives and takes power to whomever he pleases and at the time he chooses.
Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar said the Sultanate Council in appreciation of governor Yahaya’s humble attributes and accomplishments will soon confer a chieftaincy title on him.
In his response, Governor Inuwa Yahaya described Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar lll as a charismatic leader ordained by God and who epitomizes the true essence of Islam and engenders peace and tranquility, especially at a time when the country is faced with numerous social, economic, political and religious challenges.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed satisfaction with the leadership qualities of Sultan of Sokoto and gratitude for uniting the Ummah within and outside the country, describing the traditional ruler as an embodiment of truthfulness and forthrightness.
He said being a Governor in a cosmopolitan State like Gombe, his administration remains committed and is determined to carry everyone along without recourse to indigene settlers dichotomy, citing an example with an igbo man residing in Gombe among the appointees in his government which he said signifies unity and social cohesion among all the multi ethnic groups in Gombe state.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya assured Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar lll that his administration will continue on the path of peace of equity, equality and justice to which the Sultanate stands for and ultimately Islam as a religion.
“We would like to assure you that the path on which you put us, we shall never derail, we shall work hard to make sure that we bring prosperity, peace, harmony and progress to our people because without that it means we as leaders have failed and we shall not fail you by the grace of God”.
The courtesy visit witnessed the presentation of two historical books on the Caliphate by the Sultan of Sokoto to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the 10 Year Gombe Development Plan by the Governor to Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar lll.
Shortly after the visit, Governor Inuwa Yahaya led the Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar lll, Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar lll and other dignitaries to Commission a road named in his honour of the Sultan at Gandu quarters of Gombe metropolis.
Ismaila Uba Misilli Director-General ( Press Affairs) Government House Gombe
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