Flowerbud News

Author: Habibu Dan-Garba

  • Peaceful APC ward congress in Sokoto is a symbol of unity among loyalists — Chairman

    Peaceful APC ward congress in Sokoto is a symbol of unity among loyalists — Chairman
    The Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) National Congress Committee for Sokoto state, Alhaji Lawali Liman Kaura, says peaceful conduct of the exercise has demonstrated unity among party loyalists in the state.
    Speaking to the newsmen Thursday in Sokoto, Liman Kaura expressed satisfaction with the ward congresses conducted across the 244 wards of Sokoto state.
    He explained that he along with the Committee Secretary, Mr Zubairu Lawali, had inspected some wards and commended the level of discipline by party members.
    He observed that the manner of orderliness displayed by party members during the exercise was encouraging demostratinig well for the party future engagements.
    The Committee Chairman stated that the conduct of party members during the ward congresses was a practical expression of the meaning of the party’s symbol the broom which stands for unity.
    He therefore appealed to all party members to continue in the same spirit of orderliness and unity during the forthcoming Local Government Congresses scheduled for this coming Saturday.
    Liman Kaura also praised the excellent arrangements made by the Sokoto State APC leadership, which paved the way for the success of the exercise.
  • Association advocates adoption of green chemistry for sustainable development

    Association advocates adoption of green chemistry for sustainable development

    Association advocates adoption of green chemistry for sustainable development
    Participants of the concluded 11th Annual Symposium of the American Chemical Society (ACS) Nigeria International Chemical Sciences have called for the adoption of green chemistry principles and sustainable practices as key drivers of national growth and innovation.
    The association underscored the critical role of chemistry in advancing sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.
    This is contained in a communique issued at the end of the annual symposium, themed “Emerging Technologies in Chemistry for Sustainable Development,” was held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
    The event brought together renowned academics, researchers, industry experts, and policymakers from across the globe.
    The gathering provided a platform to explore emerging technologies in chemistry and their applications for sustainable growth and societal development.
    In her opening remarks, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Prof. Ganiyat Oloyede, highlighted the city’s rich academic heritage.
    Oloyede expressed appreciation to the ACS Nigeria International Chapter for granting the University of Ibadan the hosting rights for this year’s edition and emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in addressing global challenges.
    Speaking at the event, the Chairman of ACS Nigeria, Prof. Edu J. Inam, noted that the symposium theme was carefully chosen to explore new pathways through which chemistry can address pressing global issues, particularly climate change, environmental sustainability, energy security, and public health.
    She called for innovative thinking, rigorous interrogation of knowledge, and the translation of ideas into actionable solutions.
    Prof. Inam also highlighted the Chapter’s achievements in student chapter expansion, mentorship, research visibility, and global engagement, while encouraging young chemists and early-career researchers to transform scientific knowledge into practical innovations.
    The symposium also featured keynote and plenary lectures highlighting cutting-edge developments in sustainable and translational chemistry. In his keynote lecture, Prof. Franklin Aigbirhio of the University of Cambridge, UK, discussed the development and application of novel radiopharmaceuticals for Positron Emission Tomography (PET), emphasizing their potential for early disease detection and treatment monitoring.
    Dr. Nevila Jana of MCPHS University, USA, presented a collaborative approach to malaria research, underscoring the value of interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving.
    Dr. Mary Anti Chama from the University of Ghana emphasized sustainable chemical practices, including green chemistry, renewable energy integration, and waste valorisation.
    Additional presentations included Dr. Martins S. Oderinde of Bristol Myers Squibb, USA, who explored photocatalysis as a powerful tool for sustainable organic synthesis, and Dr. Femi F. Oloye of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, USA, who delivered a keynote lecture on catalysts and their industrial relevance.
    Another highlight was the Student Symposium, themed “From Laboratory to Society: Student Innovation in Sustainable Chemical Technology,” which reinforced the importance of translating laboratory research into societal impact.
    The session provided a platform for students to showcase innovative projects focused on sustainability, entrepreneurship, and practical relevance.
    The symposium also honoured outstanding contributions to STEM research, education, and sustainable chemistry, with awards presented to Prof. Kayode Adebowale; Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi; Chief Dotun Sanusi; Engr. Bolarinwa Olowe James; Chief Saheed Oladele; and Prof. Oyewusi Gureje.
    These recognitions reflected ACS Nigeria’s commitment to celebrating leadership, impact, and service in science and education.
    The symposium was declared opened by Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh (SAN), who emphasized the pivotal role of chemistry in Nigeria’s sustainable development.
    Represented by Dr. Stella C. Igwilo, Director and Head of Chemical Technology in the Ministry, the Minister expressed concern over the country’s limited progress in chemical technology and value-addition processes despite abundant natural resources.
    He outlined a three-pronged strategy to address this gap: strengthening local content and value addition, increasing strategic investment in research and development, and promoting green chemistry and sustainable practices.
    The Minister further urged the ACS Nigeria Chapter to serve as a technical advisory hub for government and industry in shaping policy, setting standards, and validating emerging technologies.
    He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s science and innovation ecosystem and emphasized the need for chemistry-driven solutions in healthcare, industrial competitiveness, energy transition, and environmental protection.
    A panel session moderated by Dr. Sederra Ross of the ACS Green Chemistry Institute examined Green Chemistry and Sustainable Environmental Technologies: Balancing Innovation, Profitability, and Societal Impact.
    A workshop on effective academic publishing, facilitated by Thieme Publishers with a virtual lecture by Dr. Yingxiao Cai, provided participants with training in research writing, peer review, and publishing ethics. Coordinated by Prof. Atim Johnson, the student-focused activities enhanced research communication skills, collaboration, and innovation capacity among emerging chemists.
    At the conclusion of the event, participants issued several recommendations, including strengthening research infrastructure, promoting industry–academia partnerships, and accelerating the adoption of renewable energy solutions.
    The symposium ultimately highlighted the importance of collaborative action in translating scientific research into practical solutions for a sustainable Nigeria.

  • Inquiry: Group cautions agencies against political interference

    Inquiry: Group cautions agencies against political interference
     A group of concern citizens of Sokoto, has urged anti-corruption agencies to be wary of political interference regarding the commission of inquiry’s outcomes that allegedly discovered mismanagement of funds by past government officials.
    The group, Sokoto Progressive Vanguards made the call in a statement signed by it’s Chairman, Dr Yusha’u Abdullahi and issued to the newsmen on Friday in Sokoto.
    It was recalled that on Feb. 3, this year the Sokoto State Judicial Commission of Inquiry led by Justice Ma’azu Pindiga had submitted it’s report and unraveled about N117 billion allegedly mismanaged by immediate past administration of Gov. Aminu Tambuwal in the state.
    The group urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Police and Department State Services (DSS) not to consider any politicians, who were desperate on incriminating former Gov. Tambuwal and his associates.
    ” The presentation made by the judicial commission of inquiry contained allegations against Tambuwal’s administration, we look forward to adhered transparent legal procedures.
    ” It was allegedly circulated that present administration join hands with some groups and individuals who nurse political differences with Tambuwal on discrediting Tambuwal stewardship when he was governor.
    ” The desperation was glaring to the public noticing the propaganda and other unfounded information being circulated to allegedly tarnish the image of immediate past administration of Tambuwal at all cost.
    ” We notice the procedures from the initial stage of the commission of inquiry sittings which was elongated from two weeks to more than three years and composition of members,” the group said.
    According to the group, infractions being investigated should go beyond Tambuwal’s administration as he inherited many issues from the government that came before him.
    ” We consider the investigation between 2015 to 2023 as undermining the procedure of fair play because it was reported that a petition was pending before EFCC on past governor before Tambuwal.
    ” We understand that present administration concentrate only on discrediting the good services of Tambuwal rather than doing good projects to the citizens of Sokoto state.
    ” The issues highlighted desperation, political bitterness and witchunt allegedly using rumours, political slanders and unfounded information to accuse Ex-Gov. Tambuwal and his associates on wrong doings, rather pursuing the interest of state’s development”. The group added.
  • Sokoto, International Alert inaugurate committee on climate-peace project

    Sokoto, International Alert inaugurate committee on climate-peace project

    Sokoto, International Alert inaugurate committee on climate-peace project

    The Sokoto State Government, in partnership with International Alert Nigeria, has inaugurated a Project Steering Committee for implementation of the Powering Peace through Climate Action II project.

    The inauguration followed resolutions adopted by stakeholders in peace-building, humanitarian and development sectors during a meeting on Thursday in Sokoto.

    The move is aimed at strengthening coordinated responses to emerging climate-related security challenges.

    Senior Project Officer, International Alert, Mr Sanusi Audu, said climate change was shrinking grazing areas, reducing agricultural productivity and threatening livelihoods, thereby intensifying pressure on natural resources across many vulnerable communities in Nigeria.

    Audu explained that declining access to land and water created competition among occupational groups, especially farmers and herders, leading to disputes that were largely resource-driven and increasingly linked to environmental stress factors.

    He warned that addressing insecurity without recognising climate drivers would allow root causes to persist, stressing the need for climate-sensitive strategies to ensure long-term peace, stability and sustainable national development outcomes.

    Vice Chairman of the committee, Mr Mustapha Umar, emphasised the urgency of integrating climate considerations into conflict prevention and resolution frameworks at community, state and national levels for more effective interventions.

    Umar, also Director of Relief and Rehabilitation at the State Emergency Management Agency, guided participants to outline actions including advocacy visits, community sensitisation and promotion of local ownership of climate resilience initiatives.

    The District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sani Umar-Jabbi, underscored the importance of coordinated strategies addressing climate and conflict challenges simultaneously to ensure inclusive responses involving government institutions, traditional authorities and grassroots stakeholders.

    Umar-Jabbi called for conflict-sensitive policymaking that addressed underlying causes proactively, noting that climate change aggravated gender-based violence, poverty, social dislocation and declining educational outcomes in affected communities.

    He stressed that mitigating climate impacts required collective action by government, civil society, development partners and citizens to achieve sustainable solutions capable of strengthening resilience and preventing recurring conflicts.

    Participants observed that prioritising climate-sensitive conflict approaches would deepen understanding of the climate-security nexus and enable policymakers to design interventions addressing environmental pressures alongside socio-economic vulnerabilities effectively.

    They added that adopting adaptive strategies could reduce climate-related conflicts, promote sustainable peace, support livelihoods and enhance resilience among populations most exposed to environmental and economic shocks.

    The committee members include representatives of government ministries, community organisations, traditional institutions, persons with disabilities, civil society groups and the media.

  • Army offers free medical treatment to Sokoto community

    Army offers free medical treatment to Sokoto community

    Army offers free medical treatment to Sokoto community

    The Nigerian Army, has provided free medical treatment to Tsefe community and environs, a suburb of Sokoto as part of 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD).

    Inaugurating the exercise on Tuesday, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Sokoto, Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, said the initiative aimed to improve healthcare delivery in communities.

    Ajose, who also serves as the Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force Operation FANSAR YANMA, was represented by the Commander 108 Equipment Support, Brig.-Gen. Aliyu Musa..

    He said AFCRD was enshrined to reflect on the sacrifices, dedication of our fallen heros who selflessly laid down their lives for the peace, unity and security of the country along with those that suffered various ailments.

    He explained that it was also celebrate the commitment of the present servicemen as way of encouraging their dedication to defending the sovereignty and peaceful coexistence of the country.

    The GOC reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while calling on the community to continue supporting security agencies in the quest for lasting peace.

    He enjoyed communities to properly utilise the opportunity through accessing the medication and cares providing by team of doctors and other auxiliary healthcare workers.

    The Commander, 8 Division Medical Services and Hospital, Brig.-Gen. David Ibeh, said the effort was to support the community by addressing immediate health challenges through free medical consultations, treatment, and distribution of essential drugs particularly for women, children, and the elderly.

    Ibeh said the medical outreach is a demonstration of Nigerian Armed Forces commitment to both national security and improving well-being of the citizens.

    He said the choice of Tsefe community was deliberate, considering its proximity to Giginya Barrack and the prevailing needs to foster increased mutual relationships between Nigerian Armed Forces and communities.

    Responding, the Village Head of Tsefe, Alhaji Muhammadu Tsefe, expressed gratitude to the Army for the initiative, describing it as timely and commendable.

    Tsefe said the gesture reflects the Army’s dedication to supporting host communities while fulfilling its constitutional mandate and pray for souls of fallen heroes who sacrifices for the nation.

    .“We pray for continuous guidance and protection for the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in their service to the nation,” he said.

    The exercise witnessed distribution of treated mosquito nets, medical consultations, diagnostics, distribution of eye glasses and medications.

  • Armed Forces Remembrance Day: GOC seeks more recognition of fallen heroes’ sacrifices 

    Armed Forces Remembrance Day: GOC seeks more recognition of fallen heroes’ sacrifices 

    Armed Forces Remembrance Day: GOC seeks more recognition of fallen heroes’ sacrifices

    The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division of Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, has called for more recognition of fallen heroes’ sacrifices.

    Ajose made the plea in his message during an interdenominational service at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Giginya Barrack, Sokoto on Sunday.

    The interdenominational service was part of activities to commemorate 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration (AFRDC).

    Represented by Commander, 48 Engineer Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Raphael Okoroji, Ajose expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for acknowledging the armed forces who contribute to the safety and sovereignty of the nation.

    He observed that some fallen heroes and heroins paid the supreme price, while others suffered different categories of injuries in the course of duty to guarantee the nation’s corporate existence.

    The GOC commended President Bola Tunubu for his commitment to personnel welfare as well as recognition of fallen heroes and their families.

    “They have given their lives for the peace and security of our dear nation and are therefore worthy of being celebrated as a mark of appreciation.

    “We must honour their work and inspire future generations to continue with this noble service.

    ”It is a session to reflect on history, shape the present and build the future, we commemorate the incredible bravery and strength of those who came before us and continue to serve,” he said.

    According to him, the session is also to acknowledge the veterans’ sacrifices, who fought wars to facilitate peace for the nation.

    “Therefore, we want to use this medium to congratulate the families of fallen heroes for being part of history.

    ”We also congratulate active persons who are today guardians of our frontiers, keeping tight rein of our beloved country’s defenses,” he noted.

    The GOC urged the active service men to emulate the virtues of those who went ahead to gave their best to keep the country together.

    He reiterated the commitment of the army to safeguarding the nation against insurgency, banditry, terrorism, secessions and other crimes.

    The acting Deputy Directors of the Chaplain Service, Lt.-Col. Richard Bwami and Lt.-Col. Irimiya Yidawi led the processions, presentations and intercessory prayers for the fallen heroes, living persons and the nation.

    The occasion featured songs, presentations and distribution of food items.

  • Remembrance: Imam urges prayers for fallen heroes

    Remembrance: Imam urges prayers for fallen heroes

    Remembrance: Imam urges prayers for fallen heroes

    The Chief Imam of Giginya Barrack Jumuat Mosque Sokoto, Maj. Tanimu Hamisu, has called on Nigerians to pray for fallen heroes in view of their sacrifices to the nation.

    Hamisu who is the Acting Deputy Director of Islamic Affairs of 8 Division of Nigerian Army Sokoto made the call in his sermon at special Jumuat prayer marking 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) on Friday in Sokoto.

    He stressed that fallen heroes have made sacrifices their lives for the nation’s unity, progress and peaceful coexistence which deserved to be remembered and recognized at all times.

    He also highlighted the importance of supporting their families particularly widows and orphans in Army formations.

    The Chief Imam quoted Qur’anic verses and prophetic traditions that recognize men who died at the battle field for safeguarding their communities and nations.

    He encouraged men in service to consider their positions as opportunity to serve the nation stressing that persons who died gallantly protecting territory against all forms of infidels have special positions in the hereafter.

    He stressed the need for individuals and groups to support fallen heroes families inculcate moral values, proper child upbringing, and other issues to foster productive living.

    The Deputy Director cautioned people against supporting terrorists, bandits and other criminals describing informants as the same perpetrators of evils.

    The event witnessed distribution of food to Barrack community and the needy.

  • Sokoto govt, lauds GOC for contribution against banditry

    Sokoto govt, lauds GOC for contribution against banditry

    Sokoto govt, lauds GOC for contribution against banditry

    The Sokoto State Government has commended the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, for his outstanding leadership, professionalism, and immense contributions to the fight against banditry and other security challenges in the North-West.

    The commendation was contain in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to Gov. Ahmed Aliyu on Security, Retired Col. Ahmed Usman issued to the newsmen on Thursday in Sokoto.

    He described Ajose as a gallant officer whose tenure recorded remarkable operational successes and wished him success in the future endeavors.

    Usman particularly eulogised the outgoing GOC for his decisive role as Commander, Sector 2 of Operation Fansam Yamma, noting that his strategic leadership and effective coordination with other security agencies significantly degraded the operational capacity of bandits and other criminal elements in the region.

    According to the Special Adviser, the outgoing GOC had demonstrated uncommon commitment, courage, and patriotism in the discharge of his duties, earning the respect of officers and men under his command as well as the appreciation of the civilian population.

    “The people of Sokoto State, and indeed the entire North-West, will continue to remember Major General Ibikunle Ajose for his selfless service, operational excellence, and firm resolve in confronting banditry and other security threats.

    “His contributions have strengthened security collaboration and restored confidence among our communities,” Usman said.

    He further assured the Nigerian Army of the Sokoto State Government’s continued support and cooperation, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, in efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.

    He also reassured the general public that the state government remains fully committed to working with the military and other security agencies to sustain the gains recorded and ensure the safety of lives and property.

  • PCVE network urges grassroots action against extremism

    PCVE network urges grassroots action against extremism

    PCVE network urges grassroots action against extremism

    The Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) Network has urged stakeholders to intensify grassroots engagement to strengthen community resilience against Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

    The Sokoto State Chairman of t ishe network, Dr Ahmad Sirajo, made the call at a press conference in Sokoto.

    Sirajo said deeper community engagement would improve understanding of local drivers of extremism and lay foundations for inclusive and sustainable prevention planning.

    He said the network had facilitated PCVE co-creation dialogues, bringing communities and government actors together to design locally tailored action plans.

    “These forums helped identify priorities such as youth economic empowerment, early warning mechanisms, and expanded dialogue and consultation platforms.

    “Our commitment is unwavering, as we strengthen PCVE institutionalisation through coordination, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge-driven decision-making,” he said.

    Sirajo said stakeholders were actively engaged to understand the evolving extremist landscape and challenges confronting current interventions.

    According to him, the objective was to provide clarity, progress updates, and a call to collective action for residents to participate in solutions.

    He noted that the North-West had suffered farmer-herder clashes, banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling, worsening insecurity across communities.

    Sirajo stressed a multi-sectoral, whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach for sustained collaboration among government, civil society and international partners.

    He said such collaboration would deliver impactful interventions at national, state and sub-national levels.

    The chairman assured continued engagement with governments, legislatures and security leaders to secure political backing and resources for PCVE sustainability.

    He reiterated the network’s commitment to empowering communities with early warning tools and dialogue platforms to build trust between citizens and authorities.

    Sirajo highlighted future opportunities including deeper youth engagement, targeted economic interventions, and embedding PCVE structures within government planning systems.

    He acknowledged persistent challenges, including armed groups, youth unemployment, socio-economic exclusion and weak intelligence linkages in some local government areas.

    “Security operations alone cannot end violent extremism; this is a shared governance, development and community resilience challenge,” he said.

    He urged residents to remain vigilant, support community alerts, promote peace messages, reject extremist narratives and lead inclusive resilience-building campaigns. (