Flowerbud News

Author: Ibrahim Abusadiq

  • Youth Groups urge Ndarani, SAN to contest Niger South senate seat, pledge support

    Youth Groups urge Ndarani, SAN to contest Niger South senate seat, pledge support

    Youth Groups urge Ndarani, SAN to contest Niger South senate seat, pledge support

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    Two prominent youth-based groups in Niger State have formally called on Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Alhaji Mohammed Ndarani, to declare his interest in contesting the Niger South (Zone A) senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

    They cited his record of philanthropy, grassroots engagement and leadership credentials as some reasons behind their call.

    The members of the groups who came in there large numbers made the presentation at a brief ceremony in Abuja on Monday

    The Niger South Coalition of Youth Groups, in a letter endorsed by its Coordinator, Hon. Abdullahi Muhammad Gangwa, said the decision to propose Ndarani’s candidacy followed extensive consultations across the eight local government areas of the zone.

    The coalition described Ndarani as the preferred choice of youths, noting that his public popularity, community presence and consistent service to humanity have positioned him as a beacon of hope for improved political leadership and effective representation.

    According to the coalition, Ndarani’s experience, expertise and international exposure would add value to deliberations in the upper legislative chamber.

    The group pledged to publicly present and support his candidacy and further undertook to purchase the required nomination forms, describing the move as a people-driven initiative aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

    Similarly, the Ndarani Advocacy Movement (NAM) also urged the legal luminary to vie for the Senate, declaring him the most qualified candidate to represent Niger South.

    In a separate letter signed by its Chairman, Hon. Theophilus A. Mamman, the group said its support was anchored on Ndarani’s distinguished academic background, professional accomplishments as a SAN and his personal attributes of humility, empathy, philanthropy and effective communication.

    The group noted that Ndarani’s qualities have made him a unifying figure capable of driving meaningful development and elevating the status of Niger South at the national level.

    It stressed that the zone requires his vision, passion and expertise in the Senate to advance the interests of the people.

    Responding, Alhaji Mohammed Ndarani,SAN, the Hukunchi Nupe and Hukunchi Kasan Hausa, appreciated them for the visit and for calling on him to contest for Senatorial seat in 2027.

    He assured them that he would answer their calls at an appropriate time after due consultation.

    “I am so delighted and overwhelmed that you people have come down to pay me a courtesy visit and to ask me to contest for the seat of Senate, Niger South Senatorial district, Zone A come 2027.

    “This your Clarion Call is a call for service to humanity.

    “I am very optimistic that by the special grace of God, I will do a robust consultation and I will come with a very informed position that is going to help us all, Nupe extraction, Nupe Kingdom and Niger State,” he said.

    He said, “I will consult widely with my family members, friends, associates and other critical stakeholders before communicating my decision to the groups

    He urged them to continue to advocate for good people to vie for leadership positions in the interest of peace and development of Niger State and Nigeria at large.

    The learned silk commended the initiative and the confidence reposed in him.

    In a goodwill message, Engr. Mohammed Dagachi Etsugaie, the National President of Community Association for Grassroots Transformation (CAGRAT) who said he was at the historic occasion as a civil society runner and friend of Ndarani
    described him as a man of integrity whose past records of achievements speak volumes.

    He said it was a positive development in politics when people voluntarily consider and invite an individual to contest for public office in a representative democracy.

    Engr Dagachi noted that such a call reflects trust and the belief that the person would offer quality representation.

    According to him, the youths’ decision underscores their conviction that Ndarani’s presence in the Senate would translate into effective advocacy and tangible benefits for Niger South.

    Speakers, after the speaker in their goodwill messages, extolled the virtues of the legal icon in their approval for his Senatorial Candidacy.

  • Legal luminary, Ndarani, SAN sponsors football competition to promote peace, unity

    Legal luminary, Ndarani, SAN sponsors football competition to promote peace, unity

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    Alhaji Mohammed Ndarani, SAN, has organised a football competition among youths in his community in order to promote unity and peace in Niger and the country at large.

    Ndarani, the Hukunchi Nupe and Hausaland, spoke in an interview with newsmen after the finals of the football competition in Vunchi, Doko District of Lavun Local Government Area of Niger on Wednesday.

    He said the ‘Hukunchi Nupe football competition’, was going to be an annual event.

    The Senior Advocate said that the tournament would also bolster peace and unity in Niger and Nigeria in general.

    Accordingly to him, the vibrant football competition was aimed at promoting unity and peace among youths.

    It would be recalled that Young Stars Football club of Doko has emerged winners of the Hukunchi Nupe Cup

    The team defeated Sparkling stars also of Doko 4-3 on penalties after regulation time ended in a barren draw.

    Fourteen teams from the axis participated in the competition which lasted for over a month as footballers at the grassroots gave a good account of themselves.

    He said that football apart from promoting unity and peace among Nigerians, would reduce youths restiveness in the country.

    According to him, football promotes unity and peace, saying, “in Nigeria, sports like football foster national pride and bridge ethnic divides.

    “The importance of sports like football extends far beyond physical activity. It creates jobs for many youths.

    “It plays a vital role in personal development, community building, and even national progress.

    “Football just like other sporting activities that bring about youths engagement that keeps young people away from negative influences and social vices.

    “Fitness, football enhances strength, flexibility, and endurance, social and community benefits among others,” he said

    Ndarani called on the youths and other Nigerians to embrace football and other sporting activities for the overall development of the country.

    The revered legal Icon said, “I feel so delighted to see people from different communities coming together to participate.

    “Football is a powerful tool for unity, and we’re proud to host this event.”

    The competition has drawn dignitaries from various communities, including traditional leaders and government officials.

    The event is expected to promote peace, sportsmanship, and talent development among Nigerian youths.

    He added, “I sponsored the football competition in my community to unite all the youths and to ensure that there should be a peace in our area, because football is unity .

    “It gives the community the much needed peace without creating any rancour in the society.”

    The learned silk assured of his continued commitment to initiate different youths friendly policies and programmes that would keep the youths off the streets in the country.

    The renowned legal luminary said organising football competition in remote areas would bring out the hidden talents, that could be stars that the nation can be proud of tomorrow.

    “They can also be shining stars in Manchester United, Arsenal, among others in the future, Ndarani added.

    The tournament, which featured participants, was designed to inspire young people and steer them away from social vices.

    The event attracted dignitaries from different parts of the state included the Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar and the Shaba Nupe, Alhaji Manko Yilata.

    Others were District and Village Heads, Imams, Prof. Tanko Suleiman, Vice-Chancellor , Edu Soko University, Bida and Alhaji Muhammad Alfa-Maali, Chairman of Lavun LGA, among others.

    NAN

     

  • IHVN empowers 1,200 households with food security, malaria prevention project

    IHVN empowers 1,200 households with food security, malaria prevention project

    By Rachael Abujah

    The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has inaugurated a five-year food security and malaria prevention project aimed at empowering 1,200 vulnerable households in Katsina and Nasarawa States.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Ms Uzoma Nwofor, Senior Communications Manager of IHVN, on Saturday in Abuja.

    Nwofor said the project, inaugurated simultaneously in both states on Thursday, sought to promote sustainable agriculture, improved nutrition practices and malaria prevention among vulnerable families.

    She added that IHVN currently provides HIV services in four states and selected Katsina and Nasarawa based on empirical evidence of vulnerability, including poverty levels, malaria burden and HIV prevalence.

    Nwofor said a vulnerability assessment identified 400 households in Katsina and 800 households in Nasarawa as most at risk.

    According to her, the project aims to strengthen household resilience through food demonstration trainings using locally available foods, with trained community workers providing house-to-house follow-up support.

    She added that beneficiaries would also be trained in soap making to promote water, sanitation and hygiene practices.

    “The households have been grouped into three agricultural categories: 200 for livestock farming, 400 for home gardening and 600 for community farming to cultivate vitamin- and protein-rich crops,” she said.

    Nwofor said beneficiaries were provided with planting pots, animal shelters, livestock medications and fertilisers, while trained community workers would continue to supervise farming activities and introduce improved techniques.

    She further disclosed that IHVN was collaborating with 13 health facilities to facilitate referrals for malaria and severe malnutrition cases.

    She quoted the Project Director, Dr Victoria Igbinomwanhia, as saying at the inauguration that beneficiaries received livestock, including pigs, goats and chickens, as well as farming tools, seeds and training in livestock and crop production.

    According to her, the households were also trained in nutrition, financial management through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), and malaria prevention practices.

    Igbinomwanhia explained that the project was being implemented in collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture and Food Security, Health, community-based organisations and traditional leaders to ensure sustainability.

    “This project builds on our years of public health interventions, particularly in caring for people infected and affected by HIV, including orphans and vulnerable children,” she said.

    A community worker, Ms Oluwayemisi Adeniji, expressed optimism that the project would improve household health and nutrition.

    “We expect beneficiaries to share the knowledge and skills gained with others in their communities and ensure that these skills are put into practice,” Adeniji was quoted as saying.

    Some beneficiaries, including Mrs Marakisiyya Yusuf, 35, and Mr Sulieman Mashi, 42, from Daura Local Government Area of Katsina State, said the training had already begun to make an impact.

    Yusuf said she learned how to use VSLA to save for the future and planned to establish a savings group in her community, while Mashi said he intended to start a savings group and teach his wife how to prepare balanced meals using knowledge gained from the nutrition demonstrations.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the project is being implemented by IHVN with funding support from BMZ/Gesundes Africa.

    NAN

  • PEBEC ranks NCC among top 5 best-performing gov’t agencies

    PEBEC ranks NCC among top 5 best-performing gov’t agencies

    Flowerbud News/ Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has named the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as one of the top five 2025 best-performing Federal Government agencies under the Transparency and Efficiency Category.

    Head, Public Affairs, NCC, Mrs Nnenna Ukoha, made this known in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

    Ukoha said that NCC was recognised alongside the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, which emerged overall best-performing agency.

    She said that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, emerged second, as well as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Ports Authority.

    “The recognition was announced at the PEBEC Awards and Gala Night held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.

    “The award celebrates transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s public service and was presented to the Commission for its “commitment to openness, accountability and operational excellence in Public Service Delivery,” she said.

    Meanwhile, receiving the award on behalf of the commission, the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining transparency and accountability in its regulatory approach.

    Maida stated that these principles remained central to improving industry performance and fostering a conducive environment for telecommunications businesses to thrive.

    He said, “The commission is proud to be listed among the Top Five Best-Performing Federal Government Agencies for 2025.

    “This recognition is an affirmation of the values that guide our work, transparency, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to regulatory excellence.

    “It signals that the reforms we have pursued, the systems we have strengthened, and the decisions we have taken are yielding the right results.”

    Maida said that this award was a validation and responsibility to NCC, adding that it reassures the commission of being on the right path, and a challenge to deepen commitment to the Nigerian people.

    “For us at the NCC, this honour is both a validation and a responsibility.

    “As an economic regulator, our mandate is to create an environment where operators can thrive an environment that attracts investment and sustains healthy competition, ensuring consumers enjoy the best possible choices.

    “Nigerians can rest assured that we will not rest on our oars. We remain fully committed to ensuring that the telecom consumer receives the highest quality of service, supported by a fair, transparent, and competitive industry.”

    The EVC assured that the commission would continue to strengthen its collaborations with stakeholders, adding that meaningful progress in the sector can only be achieved through shared commitment and collective action.

    Speaking at the awards, the PEBEC Director-General, Zahrah Mustapha-Audu, said the event was organised to celebrate reform champions and highlight progress made in improving the country’s business climate.

    “This evening is not merely an awards ceremony, it is a powerful affirmation of possibilities, honouring the champions who have moved beyond compliance, embracing excellence as the new standard for public service delivery.

    “The achievements we acknowledge are the tangible result of collective resolve to make Nigeria the most attractive and predictable competitive destination for business in Africa.

    “Under the unwavering leadership of President Bola Tinubu, and the active chairmanship of the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, our reform efforts have been characterised by intentionality, accountability, and the strategic deployment of data.

    “We understand that to fix the operational environment for businesses, we must first fix the government’s framework,” she said.

    Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the council, said the awards reflected the government’s commitment to a more efficient and competitive public service.

    “The PEBEC has spent the last couple of years championing reforms that speak to the whole of our economic aspirations.

    “The reforms that make it easier to do business, that restore your best confidence, that ensure our institutions work in the spirit of national growth.

    “Tonight, we salute the men and women driving these institutions, when we commit to working together across MDAs, across states and across sectors, Nigeria wins,” he said.

  • OmoBarca Celebrates Ajeromi Ifelodun Residents in New Month Message, Reaffirms Commitment to Development

    OmoBarca Celebrates Ajeromi Ifelodun Residents in New Month Message, Reaffirms Commitment to Development

    OmoBarca Celebrates Ajeromi Ifelodun Residents in New Month Message, Reaffirms Commitment to Development

    Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, has extended warm felicitations to residents as the month begins, praising their resilience, unity, and commitment to the progress of the constituency.

    In a message released on Monday, OmoBarca described the people of Ajeromi Ifelodun as “hardworking, courageous, and unbreakable,” adding that their daily contributions continue to inspire his service and push the constituency toward greater development.

    He noted that the new month presents a fresh opportunity for renewed optimism, collective commitment, and strategic action toward transforming the constituency.

    According to him, “This new month is a fresh chapter, a chance for all of us to recommit to the collective vision of a better and more prosperous Ajeromi Ifelodun. Our strength as a people lies in our unity, our determination to rise above challenges, and our shared belief that progress is possible.”

    OmoBarca reiterated that his focus remains the welfare of constituents across all communities within Ajeromi Ifelodun. He assured residents that ongoing plans for enhanced infrastructure, quality education, accessible healthcare, and socio-economic empowerment remain at the core of his legislative and constituency agenda.

    “Your welfare has always been, and will continue to be, my foremost priority,” he affirmed. “Together, we will pursue meaningful development that reflects the aspirations of every family and strengthens the foundation of our constituency.”

    Highlighting the determination of Ajeromi Ifelodun residents in the face of economic and social pressures, the lawmaker urged constituents to keep faith and maintain hope as the year progresses. He noted that although challenges persist nationwide, Ajeromi Ifelodun will continue to stand as a model of courage and community-driven progress.

    OmoBarca encouraged residents to remain united and focused, describing unity as an essential ingredient for sustainable growth.

    “The road ahead may not always be smooth, but with collective resolve, mutual respect, and shared commitment, there is no obstacle we cannot overcome,” he said. “Our constituency has always risen above adversity because we face challenges together.”

    The legislator also appealed to citizens to sustain their support for one another, remain law-abiding, and continue to uphold the values that distinguish Ajeromi Ifelodun as a vibrant and purpose-driven community.

    He assured that more developmental initiatives will be unveiled in the coming months, expressing confidence that the constituency is on course for a period of significant transformation.

    In closing his message, OmoBarca extended prayers of protection, peace, and prosperity for all households across Ajeromi Ifelodun, emphasizing that the new month should be embraced with optimism and renewed dedication.

    “Stay hopeful, stay focused, and stay strong,” he concluded. “Let us continue building a future that honors the dreams and dignity of every citizen of this great constituency. Onward and upward, Ajeromi Ifelodun!”

    Residents have widely praised OmoBarca for his consistent engagement with the community, grassroots empowerment efforts, and visible presence in local development initiatives. Many see his new month message as further reassurance of his commitment to inclusive growth and responsive representation.

    As the new month unfolds, constituents look forward to ongoing collaboration with their representative and to a period marked by progress, stability, and shared prosperity.

  • OMOBARCA Community Cup: Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima Addresses Ajegunle Residents, Urges Youths to Secure PVCs

    OMOBARCA Community Cup: Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima Addresses Ajegunle Residents, Urges Youths to Secure PVCs

    OMOBARCA Community Cup: Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima Addresses Ajegunle Residents, Urges Youths to Secure PVCs

    The atmosphere in Ajegunle, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State, was electrifying on Sunday as the second week of the OmoBarca Community Cup kicked off, drawing hundreds of football lovers, youth groups, and community leaders. The tournament, initiated by Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, continues to strengthen grassroots sports development while promoting unity and youth engagement across the constituency.

    Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, who attended the opening match of Week Two, used the occasion to address the participating teams and their supporters. He emphasized the importance of discipline, fair play, and respect for tournament rules qualities he described as essential not only in sports but in nation-building.

    He noted that the organizers had introduced a new regulation aimed at curbing disruptions and ensuring a seamless tournament. Under this rule, supporters are strictly forbidden from invading the pitch when their team scores. Any goal celebrated with a pitch invasion will be automatically disallowed.

    “I fully endorse and reaffirm this rule,” he told the crowd. “We must maintain order, discipline, and fairness. This competition is about talent, sportsmanship, and community spirit not chaos.

    Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, also seized the opportunity to address a broader national issue: youth political participation. He urged young people in Ajegunle and beyond to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration and secure their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    With the same passion you bring to this tournament, I want all of you to commit to registering for your PVCs,” he said. Your vote is your voice, and 2027 is fast approaching. Let us be ready, let us be involved, and let us shape the future we want.

    He expressed gratitude to all participating teams, supporters, and organizers for their dedication and enthusiasm, describing the ongoing competition as “truly exciting and inspiring.”

    “Thank you for making this tournament a success,” he added. “I look forward to seeing everyone again next Sunday for another exclusive football experience that celebrates unity, talent, and community pride.

    The OmoBarca Community Cup, now in its second week, has become one of Ajegunle’s most anticipated grassroots sporting events, fostering peace, youth empowerment, and social cohesion in Lagos’ most vibrant district.

  • Ndarani, SAN sympathises with Gov. Bago over abduction of Niger students, commends swift response

    Ndarani, SAN sympathises with Gov. Bago over abduction of Niger students, commends swift response

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Bar. Mohammed Ndarani, has sympathised with the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru-Bago, over the recent abduction of some students of St. Mary’s Private Catholic School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.

    Ndarani, in a message issued in Minna on Saturday, described the incident as unfortunate, heartbreaking and unacceptable, especially at a time when the state government is investing heavily in security architecture and community protection.

    He commended Governor Umaru-Bago for his immediate and decisive response, noting that the prompt mobilisation of security agencies and coordinated rescue efforts demonstrated the governor’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of residents, particularly schoolchildren.

    “The governor’s swift intervention and continuous engagement with security formations clearly show that he places the safety of our children above all else. His actions have rekindled hope and confidence in the ongoing fight against insecurity,” Ndarani said.

    He expressed optimism that with the combined efforts of security agencies and the determination of the state government, the abducted students would be rescued unharmed and reunited with their families soon.

    Ndarani further sympathised with the Federal Government over the kidnapping of 25 students of a Comprehensive Secondary School in Kebbi State, describing the repeated attacks on schools as a major threat to national stability and educational development.

    The learned silk lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for intensifying efforts toward curbing insecurity across the country, particularly through intelligence-driven operations and renewed inter-agency coordination.

    He appealed to Nigerians to support security agencies with useful information and to continue praying for the nation, stressing that overcoming insecurity required collective effort, vigilance and divine intervention.

    “We must all join hands—government, security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders and citizens—to ensure that these troubling incidents become a thing of the past. With unity, sincere commitment and prayers, Nigeria will overcome this challenge,” Ndarani added.

    The learned silk appealed to religious leaders of the two major faiths in Nigeria to intensify prayers for divine intervention in the nation’s socio‑economic and political affairs.

  • Emir of Daura confers ‘Hukunchi Hausaland’ title on Ndarani, SAN

    Emir of Daura confers ‘Hukunchi Hausaland’ title on Ndarani, SAN

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    Flowerbud News/ Barrister Mohammed Mohammed Ndarani, SAN, has expressed profound appreciation to the Emir of Daura, Alhaji (Dr) Umar Faruq, CON, for conferring on him the traditional title of Hukunchi Hausaland.

    Ndarani, who spoke in Minna on Monday, described the honour as a significant milestone in his public service journey.

    The Senior Advocate, who is also the Hukunchi Nupe, said the title was bestowed on him in recognition of his contributions to justice delivery, peacebuilding and sustained support for developmental initiatives across Northern Nigeria.

    “I received this honour with joy, humility and profound gratitude,” he said. “For me, this recognition by the revered Emir of Daura is a call to greater service, greater responsibility and greater commitment to the ideals of justice and nation-building.”

    Ndarani said the trust reposed in him by the Emirate would further inspire him to intensify efforts toward building stronger institutions and promoting harmony among communities in the region.

    “I remain committed to using my legal expertise and influence to advance unity, good governance and sustainable development across the North and Nigeria at large,” he said.

    The learned silk described the Emir of Daura as a leader who promotes merit, excellence and service to humanity, adding that the honour was a motivation to continue contributing to national progress.

    Alhaji Mohammed Baba Busu Jakada Labari Nupe, Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, Minna however, prayed for Allah’s guidance, protection and blessings on Ndarani as he assumes the responsibilities of the new title.

    Baba Busu also prayed for long life, wisdom and divine strength for him to continue supporting peace and development in Kin Nupe, Daura Emirate and the country in general.

  • OmoBarca Community Cup kicks off with excitement as organizers release week one highlights and week two fixtures

    OmoBarca Community Cup kicks off with excitement as organizers release week one highlights and week two fixtures

    OmoBarca Community Cup kicks off with excitement as organizers release week one highlights and week two fixtures

    The much-anticipated OMOBARCA Community Cup commenced last Sunday with an electrifying atmosphere as players, officials, and supporters turned out in large numbers to witness the kickoff of the grassroots football tournament. The opening day was marked by orderly conduct, competitive spirit, and impressive displays of sportsmanship across all participating teams.

    In a statement released by the organisers, appreciation was extended to all who contributed to the smooth and peaceful outing recorded during the first week of matches. The organisers commended the players for their discipline, the match officials for their professionalism, and the supporters for creating a vibrant yet friendly environment around the games.

    Week One Highlights
    Detailed results from last Sunday’s fixtures, including match scores and standout moments, have been compiled and attached for public viewing. Fans and community members are encouraged to review the full highlights to stay updated on team performances and early contenders for the trophy.

    Week Two Fixtures Set for Sunday, 16 November 2025

    The competition continues this weekend with another exciting lineup of matches scheduled for Sunday, 16 November 2025. A full list of fixtures and match times has been made available in the accompanying release. Stakeholders are urged to familiarize themselves with the schedule, mobilize their teams, and spread the word among supporters.

    The organizers called on players to maintain the high standards of discipline demonstrated in the opening week while reminding fans to continue cheering in a positive manner that uplifts the tournament’s spirit and fosters unity within the constituency.

    The OMOBARCA Community Cup is fast becoming a rallying point for sports development and community bonding within Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling series of matches in the weeks ahead.

    Football lovers are encouraged to come out again this Sunday to support their favourite teams and enjoy another round of exciting grassroots football action.

    “Together, let us continue building a stronger and greater Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency,” the organizers said.