Flowerbud News

Author: Salisu Sani-Idris

  • Cleric lauds NDLEA for intercepting illicit drugs, dismantling criminals network

    Cleric lauds NDLEA for intercepting illicit drugs, dismantling criminals network

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    An Abuja Based Islamic Cleric, Yahya Al-Yolawi, has commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for
    intercepting large quantities of illicit drugs and dismantling criminal drug networks.
    Al-Yolawi, who is the Chief Imam of Area 10 Jumu’ah Mosque, Garki, Abuja, made the commendation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Saturday.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and NDLEA intercepted nine containers of illicit drugs worth N53.39billion at Apapa Port following joint intelligence operations.
    The cleric said that NDLEA and other agencies have continued to play a vital role in combating drug trafficking, preventing drug abuse, and rescued victims of addiction through rehabilitation programmes.
    Al-Yolawi also applauded the NDLEA for improving public awareness on the dangers of illicit drugs.
    “The agency has recorded significant successes in intercepting large quantities of illicit drugs, dismantling criminal drug networks, and prosecuting offenders.
    “NDLEA has expanded drug prevention campaigns in schools, communities, airports, seaports, and border areas.
    ” These efforts contribute to protecting our youth and strengthen the security and well-being of our nation.
    “We commend the dedication and sacrifices of the Chairman of NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, and all personnel of the agency, as well as other security agencies working tirelessly to safeguard our nation. “
    The cleric urged all Nigerians to cooperate with lawful authorities in promoting righteousness, preventing crime, and protecting society from every form of evil.
    “Intoxicants and drug abuse are among the greatest threats to our religion, our families, our health, and our future.
    ” They destroy faith, damage the body, weaken the mind, increase crime, break homes, and rob young people of their potential.
    “Let every one of us resolve today to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.”
    “Parents should remain vigilant, teachers should continue to educate, scholars should continue to advise, leaders should continue to lead with justice, and young people should choose the path of righteousness.”
    NAN recalls that the NCS Comptroller-General, Bashir Adeniyi, had on Wednesday in Lagos disclosed the seizures of cannabis sativa, codeine syrup, tramadol and expired pharmaceuticals concealed inside vehicles, spare parts, and household items.
    Adeniyi stated the operation followed painstaking intelligence gathering, scanning analysis, physical examination and collaboration with NDLEA.
    (NAN)
    (www.nannews.ng)

  • Sultan demands impartial probe into killing of MACBAN chairman

    Sultan demands impartial probe into killing of MACBAN chairman

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, has expressed profound grief over the tragic killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku, the Benue Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

    In a statement issued on Sunday, the Sultan described the deceased as “a courageous advocate of peaceful coexistence’.

    The statement signed by the National President of MACBAN, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, was made available to newsmen in Abuja.

    In the statement, Abubakar, who is the Chairman, Board of Trustees of MACBAN, urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation into the killing.

    He said the government should ensure that every person found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.

    While mourning the painful loss, Sultan commended the prompt response of the Benue Government and security agencies for the arrest of suspects in connection with the murder.

    He said late Risku consistently championed reconciliation and constructive engagement in the pursuit of lasting peace in Benue.

    Sultan also described the late Fulani leader as a respected community leader whose life was devoted to fostering peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding among pastoralists and farming communities.

    He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the leadership and members of MACBAN nationwide, and the people and Government of Benue over the loss of Risku.

    The traditional ruler noted that the deceased’s commitment to dialogue and conflict resolution earned him the respect of people across communities.

    The Sultan appealed to all residents of Benue and the wider public to remain calm, shun reprisals, and allow the due process of the law to take its course.

    He emphasised that no grievance should be allowed to undermine public peace or ignite further violence.

    He stressed that justice could only be sustained when pursued through lawful institutions.

    “The late Alhaji Ardo Risku dedicated his life to building bridges across communities.

    ” The most fitting tribute to his memory is for all of us to uphold the values of peace, restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect that he lived and worked for,” the Sultan stated.

    He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.

    The Sultan also prayed to Allah to bless the family of the deceased, friends, and associates with the strength and patience to bear this irreparable loss. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • NGX Group pledges support for Mahmoud environment, sustainability trust

    NGX Group pledges support for Mahmoud environment, sustainability trust

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, has pledged the support of the exchange for the newly inaugurated Mahmoud Environment and Sustainability Trust.

    Kwairanga made the pledge on Friday in Kano at the unveiling of the trust, held alongside the turbanning of A.B. Mahmoud, as the Garkuwan Kano.

    In a statement on Friday, the NGX Group chairman said the NGX would support the trust in advancing environmental protection and sustainable development initiatives across the country.

    He congratulated Mahmoud on his conferment, describing the traditional title as a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contributions to Nigeria, the legal profession and the historic city of Kano.

    According to him, Mahmoud had distinguished himself through his intellect, leadership and unwavering commitment to causes that promote national development.

    Kwairanga commended the senior advocate for establishing the trust, saying it would leave a lasting legacy by addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.

    He noted that the increasing effects of climate change, reflected in more frequent extreme weather events, underscored the need for collective action to protect the environment.

    “We are all witnesses to the effects of climate change in the extreme weather patterns that have become more frequent in recent times.

    “We must all rise to meet the challenge by doing what we can to protect our environment because the earth is the only home that we and future generations have,” he said.

    The NGX chairman said the trust’s focus on environmental protection and sustainability was timely and aligned with global efforts to combat climate change.

    He pledged his personal support and that of the NGX Group to partner with the trust in implementing initiatives aimed at creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for future generations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • Firm unveils 300 electric tricycles, boosts jobs in North-East

    Firm unveils 300 electric tricycles, boosts jobs in North-East

    By Talatu Maiwada

    P-GAT Industries Ltd. on Monday unveiled 300 electric tricycles under its Affordable Transport Solution (ATRaS) initiative to ease transportation costs and create employments in the North-East.

    The Chairman of the company, Mr Prime Timothy, disclosed this at the ATRaS Mobility Transition Summit in Numan, Adamawa State.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit attracted government officials and stakeholders from the six North-East states.

    Timothy said the ATRaS ecosystem was a long-term strategy designed to expand access to affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly mobility services.

    “The initiative will provide an integrated transportation system across the six North-East states in its first phase.

    “The electric-powered tricycles will reduce transportation costs, create employment opportunities and support the transition to cleaner energy.

    “Passengers will pay about half of the fares charged by conventional commercial tricycles,” he said.

    Timothy added that the initiative would also create economic opportunities for women and youths across the region.

    In his remarks, Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno State said his administration had created a conducive environment for investors to thrive.

    Represented by Mrs Nafisa Tijani of the Borno State Investment Promotion Agency, the governor said the state had removed bottlenecks in licensing and regulatory processes, enabling businesses to commence operations within two months.

    He expressed confidence that the favourable business environment would support the successful implementation of the transport scheme in the state.

    Also speaking, Mr Timothy Iwuagwu, National President of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, expressed optimism about the success of the project.

    Iwuagwu said improved security across the North-East would attract more investments to the region.

    He described the ATRaS initiative as a major step toward making transportation more affordable, accessible and environmentally sustainable.

    NAN also reports that officials from Taraba, Yobe and Bauchi states pledged support for the initiative and expressed readiness to partner with the company in their respective states. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

  • Kwairanga urges youth to key into long-term investment culture

    Kwairanga urges youth to key into long-term investment culture

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Dr Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), has called on young Nigerians to embrace long-term investment culture and innovation as key drivers of national development.

    Kwairanga made the call on Thursday at the 2026 Investment Society Colloquium held at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where he served as Father of the Day.

    He said Nigeria’s development challenges were not due to a lack of potential, but the inability to convert that potential into productive investment and sustainable enterprise.

    According to him, many Nigerians still lack the culture of long-term savings and investment.

    He said they preferred short-term financial gains and speculative schemes over structured capital market opportunities.

    “We have too often neglected the very important habits of long-term savings, investment and entrepreneurship,” he said.

    The NGX chairman said the colloquium theme, ‘Unlocking a New Era: The Future of Nigerian Financial Markets, Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Development,’ was timely.

    He noted that capital, energy and infrastructure remained the backbone of any thriving economy.

    He emphasised that financial markets played a critical role in mobilising savings and financing national development.

    According to him, government budgets alone cannot meet Nigeria’s rising infrastructure needs.

    “The bridge between potential and progress is capital. This is why financial markets matter.

    “A well-functioning capital market is not just a platform for trading securities; it is a mechanism for national development,” he said.

    Kwairanga also highlighted Nigeria’s huge infrastructure financing gap, estimated in trillions of dollars, describing it as a challenge and a major investment opportunity.

    He urged stronger public-private partnerships, improved project preparation and innovative financing structures to attract long-term capital into infrastructure projects.

    On energy, he said the sector remained central to economic competitiveness, adding that Nigeria must take advantage of the global shift toward renewable energy.

    Kwairanga said that renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydro offered opportunities for expanding access to power while promoting sustainability.

    He, however, warned that renewable energy development required stable policies, strong governance and investor confidence.

    “At Nigerian Exchange Group, we remain committed to strengthening market infrastructure, deepening investor participation and supporting sustainable capital formation,” he said.

    Kwairanga urged students to develop financial literacy and intellectual curiosity, noting that they represent the next generation of Nigeria’s economic leaders.

    He encouraged them to see themselves as active participants in shaping Nigeria’s future rather than passive observers. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • Gen. Rabe: MACBAN calls for renewed national action against insecurity

    Gen. Rabe: MACBAN calls for renewed national action against insecurity

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), has urged the Federal Government and security agencies to renew national security strategy against insecurity in the country.

    The National President of MACBAN, Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, made the call in a statement on Sunday while reacting to the death of Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar (rtd), in captivity.

    Othman-Ngelzarma emphasised the need for security and law enforcement agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering, inter-agency collaboration and community-based security initiatives.

    This, according to him, will enable them to dismantle criminal networks, rescue victims still in captivity and ensure that all perpetrators and their collaborators are swiftly brought to justice.

    He stressed that the fight against banditry must remain a national priority, which requires unwavering commitment and collective resolve.

    “MACBAN received with profound grief and deep sorrow the tragic news of the death of Maj. -Gen. Rabe Abubakar (rtd).

    “Rabe lost his life following his abduction by armed bandits on May 30, while travelling with his wife from Kaduna state to Katsina.

    “Our members nationwide extend heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late distinguished officer.

    ” The Government and good people of Katsina, his colleagues, the Nigerian military community, and the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over this painful and irreparable loss.”

    Othman-Ngelzarma said that the deceased served Nigeria with honour, courage and unwavering dedication throughout his military career, adding that his tragic demise under such distressing circumstances is a painful reminder that insecurity continues to threaten the lives of ordinary citizens.

    He stressed the urgent need for intensified and sustained national action against criminal elements.

    ” MACBAN unequivocally and in the strongest possible terms condemns banditry, kidnapping and all forms of organised violent crime.

    “These reprehensible acts have inflicted immeasurable suffering on communities across the country, devastated families, disrupted livelihoods and undermined national cohesion and economic progress.

    “No grievance or circumstance can justify the senseless taking of human lives or the terrorisation of innocent citizens, ” he said.

    Othman-Ngelzarma prayed for the safe recovery and wellbeing of the late Gen. Rabe’s wife and all other victims who may still be in captivity.

    He expressed solidarity with every Nigerian family affected by the scourge of insecurity.

    “May the Almighty Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgive the shortcomings of Maj.-Gen.Rabe, expand and illuminate his grave, admit him into Al-Jannatul Firdaus and grant his family, friends, military colleagues and the entire nation the fortitude to bear this profound loss.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • AACID hails Modi’s record tenure as Prime Minister

    AACID hails Modi’s record tenure as Prime Minister

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The Afro Asian Community Initiative for Development (AACID) has congratulated Narendra Modi on becoming India’s longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister in continuous office.

    AACID President, Mr Sanjay Srivastava, said in a statement on Wednesday that Modi achieved the milestone on June 10, 2026.

    According to Srivastava, Modi completed 4,399 consecutive days in office, surpassing the 4,398-day record held by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

    He described the achievement as a landmark moment in India’s history and a reflection of the strength of democratic institutions.

    Srivastava noted that since his first election in May 2014, Modi had secured three consecutive mandates from Indian voters.

    He said the electoral victories demonstrated sustained public confidence in Modi’s leadership and development agenda.

    According to him, India has recorded significant progress in digital governance, financial inclusion, infrastructure, manufacturing, entrepreneurship and international engagement under Modi’s leadership.

    “Initiatives like Digital India, Startup India, expanded digital payments through Unified Payments Interface (UPI), major infrastructure projects and welfare reforms have driven India’s economic growth and transformation,” he said.

    Srivastava highlighted the relevance of India’s development journey to Nigeria, noting longstanding bilateral relations in trade, investment, education, healthcare, technology and cultural exchanges.

    He said Indian investments continued to play an important role in Nigeria’s manufacturing, pharmaceutical, agriculture, energy, ICT and consumer goods sectors.

    He also pointed to growing opportunities for collaboration in digital innovation, healthcare, renewable energy, youth entrepreneurship, skills development, agriculture and small business growth.

    Srivastava said Modi’s achievement reflected the enduring strength of democracy and the trust placed in leadership through elections.

    “Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic achievement reflects the enduring strength of democracy and the trust placed in leadership through the electoral process.

    “His journey from humble beginnings to becoming India’s longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister is an inspiration to millions around the world,” he said.

    Srivastava expressed AACID’s commitment to deepening cooperation between India and Nigeria in trade, investment, education, technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship and community development.

    AACID General Secretary, Mr Pravin Kumar, described India and Nigeria as natural partners with immense potential for collaboration.

    Kumar said Modi’s leadership had helped position India as a major global economic and technological power.

    He expressed optimism that the milestone would further strengthen relations between Africa and Asia.

    Kumar reaffirmed AACID’s commitment to promoting friendship, commerce and cultural understanding among the peoples of India, Nigeria and the wider Afro-Asian region.

    He added that stronger cooperation between India and Nigeria would support economic growth, innovation and shared prosperity for future generations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • Nigeria Restates Resolve To Advance Global Environmental Governance, Land Restoration

    Nigeria Restates Resolve To Advance Global Environmental Governance, Land Restoration

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Nigeria has restated its commitment to advancing global environmental governance, biodiversity conservation, and land restoration in line with the objectives of the Great Green Wall Initiative across the Sahel region.

    The focus, according to the Nigerian government, is on combating climate change, expanding regional ecosystem partnerships, and scaling up the Great Green Wall Initiative to reverse desertification across its northern frontline states.

    The Director General of the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), Saleh Abubakar, stated this during the 8th Global Environment Facility (GEF) Assembly held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

    Abubakar is among Nigeria’s delegation, led by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, to the high-level global event.

    He said the participation of the Nigerian agency underscores the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to address the impact of climate change in Nigeria, especially in the 11 front line states.

    The NAGGW DG explained that the gathering brings together world leaders, policymakers, environmental experts, development partners, and stakeholders to deliberate on pressing environmental challenges and sustainable development priorities.

    “The Assembly serves as a strategic platform for advancing international cooperation on climate action, biodiversity conservation, land restoration, sustainable agriculture, and environmental sustainability,” he stated

    The NAGGW boss reiterated the agency’s firm resolve to strengthen partnerships with global partners with a view to mobilising support for Nigeria’s Great Green Wall initiative and other environmental restoration programmes targeted at combating desertification, land degradation, improving livelihoods, enhancing food security, building resilient.

    Abubakar sought enhanced support of global partners to enable the agency address desertification in the northern Nigeria and restore degraded ecosystems, and strengthening the role of local communities.

  • World Environment Day: NAGGW tasks Nigerians on massive tree planting

    World Environment Day: NAGGW tasks Nigerians on massive tree planting

    By Abigael Joshua

    The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW)has called on Nigerians to engage in massive tree planting to combat desertification, land degradation and worsening impacts of climate change.

    Mr Saleh Abubakar,the Director-General of NAGGW, made the call at an event to mark the 2026 World Environment Day.

    Abubakar said that tree planting aligns with the massive environmental drive of the administration of President Bola Tinubu to combat desertification, land degradation, and climate change.

    He said that trees help reverse land degradation, halt desert encroachment, and protect soils from severe erosion.

    “World Environment Day is the United Nations’ principal vehicle for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the protection of environment,” he said.

    He also urged Nigerians to participate in environmental stewardship by adopting sustainable practices in their local communities.

    “NAGGW will continue to redouble efforts towards tree planting, agroforestry, and empowering local communities in Nigeria’s frontline states to build climate resilience,” he said.

    Restoring degraded landscapes, he said, is not just an ecological mission but a way to secure food, generate income and foster sustainable livelihoods for Nigerians.

    He said that restoration of degraded landscapes are done mainly in the 11 front line states of Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Zamafara, Sokoto, Kebbi States and Yobe.

    He recalled that as part of efforts to ensure the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, the agency, in 2025, launched a strategic, nationwide campaign.

    “This campaign fostered the planting of 50 million date palm seedlings across 11 frontline states to fight desertification, create green jobs and boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    “Planting fruit trees, such as dates, not only reclaims the land but also boosts local economies and supplements household nutrition.

    “This aligns with an ambitious campaign aimed at planting billions of indigenous trees to preserve native biodiversity across the country,” the d-g said.

    Abubakar said that trees naturally absorb carbon dioxide emissions and release oxygen, helping to neutralise the impact of greenhouse gases.

    “This is also essential for states fighting dryland degradation and advancing Sahara desert encroachment,” he added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)