NASS Reaffirms Backing for Military After Deadly Borno Attack

By Musa Garba, Kaduna

The House of Representatives has restated its firm support for Nigeria’s security forces, pledging sustained legislative action to strengthen the fight against terrorism and banditry across the country.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Saturday, the Deputy Spokesperson of the House, Philip Agbese, said the 10th National Assembly would continue to provide the legal framework, funding and oversight needed to enhance the effectiveness of the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

His remarks come in the wake of a recent terrorist assault on troops in Benisheikh, Borno State, which claimed the life of senior military officer Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, alongside other personnel.

Agbese acknowledged the scale and complexity of Nigeria’s security concerns, noting that insurgency, banditry, kidnappings, and related crimes remain serious threats to national stability.

He assured that lawmakers are working closely with the executive arm of government to confront the challenges head-on, stressing that the legislature will remain unwavering in its support for the military.

“The National Assembly stands firmly alongside our armed forces and all security institutions in the effort to defeat those undermining the peace and unity of our nation,” he said.

The lawmaker praised troops on the frontline for their bravery and sacrifice, describing them as dedicated patriots who continue to risk their lives to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty.

He also highlighted that the House prioritises defence and security in its legislative agenda, which includes improved funding, better welfare packages for personnel, and enhanced intelligence systems to boost operations.

Agbese added that the National Assembly would intensify its oversight of defence expenditures to ensure accountability and the efficient use of allocated resources.

According to him, adequate and timely funding remains critical to equipping the military with the tools needed to confront evolving security threats.

While acknowledging competing national demands, he stressed that prioritising defence spending—especially the procurement of essential equipment—would significantly improve security outcomes.

He further called on citizens to actively support security agencies by sharing credible and timely information, noting that national security is a collective responsibility.

“The military alone cannot fight against insecurity.” Nigerians must remain alert and cooperate with security agencies to safeguard our communities,” he said.

Agbese expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among the legislature, executive and security agencies would ultimately restore peace and stability in affected regions.

ADC Elects New Leadership in Nasarawa, Sets Sights on 2027 Power Shift

By Aliyu Musa, Lafiya

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Nasarawa State has ushered in a new set of leaders following a state congress that produced fresh executives to steer the party’s affairs over the next four years.

The exercise, held in Lafia on Saturday, adopted a consensus approach endorsed by delegates drawn from all 13 Local Government Areas of the state, ensuring a smooth and dispute-free process.

At the end of the exercise, Mr. John Michael-Abdul emerged as State Chairman, alongside a full complement of executive members, including the Deputy Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Publicity Secretary, Woman Leader, and zonal officers representing Nasarawa North, South, and West senatorial districts.

In his acceptance remarks, Michael-Abdul assured party members of a renewed drive to reposition the ADC as a formidable political force in the state. He outlined plans to strengthen grassroots structures, promote internal democracy, and focus on issue-based politics beyond election cycles.

The new chairman, who previously served as Deputy Governor of the state, expressed confidence that the party could secure both state and national leadership positions in the 2027 general elections.

He said the new leadership would work towards building a party anchored on integrity, inclusiveness, and effective service delivery to the people of Nasarawa.

According to him, the executives have been given a clear mandate to lead with responsibility and commitment, adding that they would soon unveil a detailed action plan within 30 days. The blueprint, he noted, would target party expansion across the 147 wards, all 13 LGAs, and the entire state.

Outgoing State Chairman, Mr. Paul Magaji, in his remarks, appreciated party members for their support during his tenure and called on them to extend the same cooperation to the incoming leadership.

Earlier, Chairman of the Congress Committee, Mr. Kani Jibarang, commended the orderly conduct of the exercise, describing it as transparent and peaceful. He confirmed that all positions were filled without contention.

Following the ratification by delegates, the newly elected officials were formally returned and subsequently sworn in by Barrister John Matthew, marking the official commencement of their tenure.

Northern Governors Mourn Kebbi Speaker Muhammad Usman Zuru

By Jamila Muhammad

The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has expressed profound grief over the death of the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Usman Zuru, who reportedly passed away in the early hours of Tuesday in Egypt.

In a condolence message, Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the late Speaker’s death as a painful and significant loss, not only to Kebbi State but to the wider democratic and legislative family in Northern Nigeria.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya said Muhammad Usman Zuru was a seasoned lawmaker, a dependable pillar of governance and a patriotic public servant who devoted himself to the service of his people with rare dedication, wisdom and humility.

He noted that the late Speaker earned respect through his commitment to democratic values, legislative service and unwavering loyalty to the peace, growth and development of Kebbi State.

The NSGF chairman said the passing of the Kebbi lawmaker has created a vacuum in the state’s political and legislative landscape, stressing that his contributions to governance and public service would not be forgotten.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya extended heartfelt condolences to Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Nasir Idris, the family of the deceased, members of the Kebbi State House of Assembly and the Zuru Emirate Council over what he described as a deeply painful loss.

He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the late Speaker, reward his lifetime of service to humanity and grant him Aljannat Firdaus.

The condolence message was signed by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General, Press Affairs, Government House, Gombe.