Gombe Principals' Cup MVP Eyes Super Eagles, Real Madrid Shirt

The Most Valuable Player of the just concluded Gombe State Principals Cup Football Competition for secondary schools, Abdullahi Bello Aliyu, has said that his target is to play for Real Madrid in the Spanish La Liga.

He also said his dream was to play for the Nigerian senior men's national football team, Super Eagles.

The former Kano Pillars FC feeder team player, who was a cynosure of all eyes in the opening and final matches of the one week soccer fiesta at the Pantami Stadium, told sports journalists that he also hopes to play for Gombe United FC in future.

The 22 years old SSS3 student of Savannah Group of Schools, added that he plans to go for trials after his final exams with the hope of signing professional contract soon.

"The final game was important to us and ee prepared for it but unfortunately we lost to settle for silver. We are going to start preparing for the next edition, even though some of us will not be there. I thank my teammates, Games Master and the school management for helping us to reach this far.

"My target is to play for Supper Eagles and Real Madrid, so I will continue to train hard to achieve that and become a great player like Victor Osimhen," Aliyu said.

Gombe Inter Schools Athletics, Principal Cup Tourney Ends, As Winners Celebrate

The ongoing Gombe State Inter Secondary Schools Athletics Championship featuring participants from across the state’s 11 local  government areas has proven as a revaluation ground of future talents. With the championship coming to an end this 

weekend, some schools are already celebrating their achievements, awards, and standout performances.

The competition has not only highlights individual athletic prowess but also fosters school spirit and camaraderie among students.

One of the standout performers was U-20 Boy’s 3000m champion, Lamech Danladi who represented Diocesan High 

School Bulari. Danladi set a personal best record (PB) enroute his victory.

Government Day Secondary School (GDSS) Shehu Abubakar are the champions of the 2025 Gombe State Inter Secondary School Principal’s 

Cup. 

The school’s football team defeated Savannah School Gombe in a keenly final match played at the Gombe Stadium in Pantami on Friday evening to emerge champions of the five days soccer fiesta. Ademu Maigari scored the lone goal of the match seven minutes to hand his side the giant trophy of the competition and two hundred thousand naira (N200,000) cash prize. 

The GDSS’s victory over Savannah in the Gombe Principal’s Cup not only 

highlights the school’s soccer prowess but also fosters school pride and community spirit.

In the third match decided before thefinal match, Government Science Technical College (GSTC) defeated Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Academy 4-3 

on penalty to win the bronze medal. 

The 2025 Gombe State Inter Secondary Schools Principal’s Cup, the first of it’s kind in the entire North east region was put together by the chief executive officer  (CEO) of the Green White  Green (GWG), Ahmed Shuaibu-Gara Gombe

Emir of Gombe Dr. Abubakar, Assures Continued Support for Sponsors, Organisers of Sports activities in the Emirate

The Emir of Gombe, H.R.H Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar has applauded the sponsor of Gombe state maiden edition of inter secondary schools athletics and Principal cup competition, Hon. Ahmad Shuaibu Gara Gombe.

His Royal Highness Abubakar Shehu Abubakar made the commendation at the closing ceremony of the 5-day championship held at Pantami stadium.

The emir who was represented by Dan Adalan Gombe, Alhaji Muhammad Baba Mabani said that the championship will go along ways especially in recruiting the hidden talented athletes and at the same time improve their skills for future national and international engagements.

"We really appreciate Hon. Gara's commitment and determination in moving the state forward as far as sports was concerned in the state,'' the Emir explained.

He however said, that the Emirate council will continue to support such kind of programme aimed at motivating Hon. Gara to do more for the community and the state in general.

While congratulating the winners for making their schools proud, he urged the losers to redouble efforts in the subsequent edition of the championships.

The Emir was later awarded a lifetime patron of the competition by the organiser of the competition Hon. Gara Gombe which was the highlight of the closing ceremony

...As GDSS Doma, Shehu Abubakar Shine at Gombe Inter-secondary Schools Athletics, Principals Cup

The 2025 Gombe State Inter-secondary Schools Athletics and Principals Cup Football Competition came to a glittering end on Saturday with a colourful closing ceremony at the Pantami Stadium.

Medals were also given to deserving individual athletes and teams, who excelled at the one week sports extravaganza.

The closing ceremony, which was attended by Alhaji Mohammed Baba Magami, the representative of the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abubakar, and the state Commissioner of Education, Dr. Aishatu Umar Maigari, also included the finals of the 400×100 relays for U-20 boys and girls, U-18 boys and girls and U-16 boys and girls.

Besides the competitive events, there was also the invitational relays for higher institutions, which Gombe Athletics Academy dusted North-East University and Gombe State Polytechnic to clinch gold.

Earlier on Friday evening, GDSS Shehu Abubakar defeated Savannah Group of Schools Gombe 4-3 on penalties after playing 0-0 in regulation time to win football gold, while Government Science Technical College (GSTC) Gombe defeated IDP Academy 1-0 to claim bronze medal.

In athletics, GGMC Doma garnered 9 gold, 5 silver and 6 bronze medals to top the medals table; GVTC Kamara came second with 8 gold, 5 silver and 7 bronzes, while GDSS Bolari East placed third on the standings with 6 gold, 3 silver and 5 bronze medals.

The fourth position went to GDSS Ahmadu Gombe with 5 gold, zero silver and zero bronze medals; Diocesan High School was fifth with 4 gold, 7 silver and 1 bronze medal.

Out of the 73 secondary schools that featured in the athletics events, only 24 schools registered their names on the medals table, with Sechem Academy languishing at the basement with one (1) bronze medal.

There were also individual awards for Abdullahi Bello Aliyu, who won the Most Valuable Player award in football; the Best Goalkeeper award and the Highest Goals Scorer award in the football event.

Forgery Case: Court Issues Arrest Warrant for NSCDC Official

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has obtained a bench warrant from the Federal Capital Territory High Court Apo, Abuja against Jubrin Buba, a staff of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for refusing to appear for arraignment.

The case of Federal Republic of Nigeria vs Jubrin Buba came up on Wednesday for arraignment de novo. However, the defendant was not in court neither his lawyer nor his surety, despite being duly notified.

In view of Buba’s absence, counsel to ICPC, Mr. Aniekan Ekong, urged the Court to issue a bench warrant for his arrest and that notice should also be issued to the surety to show cause as to why the bail bond should not be forfeited to the federal government.

The presiding judge, Honourable Justice Binta Dogonyaro, granted the application and adjourned the matter to 4th March 2025 for arraignment and hearing.

ICPC is arraigning Buba on a six-count charge of forgery and false statements.

According to the ICPC, Buba, sometime in February 2015, fraudulently presented a fake BSc. Degree Certificate in Public Administration dated 7th October 2009 purportedly issued by the University of Jos, to secure a job with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

Using a forged document as genuine, is an offence under Section 366, and punishable under Section 364, of the Penal Code.

He was formerly arraigned in 2022 before Hon. Justice Asma’u Akanbi (as then was), at the FCT High Court, Kubwa.

Following the elevation of Justice Akanbi to the Court of Appeal, the matter was re-assigned to FCT High Court 46, Apo presided over by Honourable Justice Binta Dogonyaro.

In counts one and two, Buba is being charged with making a false statement to a public officer contrary to section 25 (1) (a) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

While in counts three to four, he is being charged with forgery contrary to section 364 of the Penal Code.

(ICPC)

Faith and Fortitude: The Inspiring Path of Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna - By Saleh Adamu Kwaru, CNA, FCCSA-USA

Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna's career exemplifies a remarkable blend leader whose journey reflects resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to service. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a profound trust in the hands of Allah, navigating challenges with grace and a positive outlook. Remarkably, none of his experiences have been negative; instead, they have shaped him into a figure of inspiration for many.

Although he may have lost the seat of Governor, his profile continues to rise, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. His political journey has been marked by significant achievements and appointments that highlight his capabilities and the respect he commands within the political landscape. Notably, he has made a lasting impression in all the political appointments he has held, a journey that has traversed across three different administrations, all executed with an uncommon posture. This is indeed a very rare occurrence in the Nigerian political history.

Last year, Dr. Gawuna was appointed Chairman of the Governing Council of Bayero University Kano (BUK). This appointment, while celebrated by many, was met with mixed feelings from some of his supporters. They expressed concerns regarding his political acumen and the dynamics of his followership. However, Dr. Gawuna approached this role with humility and determination, placing his trust in the decision as the right choice for the moment. 

Within the short spring, his leadership traits at BUK has been characterized by a focus on academic excellence and community engagement, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated public servant.

When another ministerial opportunity arose for the state, many anticipated that Gawuna would be the frontrunner for the position. His supporters were hopeful, given his extensive experience and the respect he has garnered over the years. 

Yet again, his stance remained unchanged despite the prevailing choices made by others. This steadfastness in the face of political maneuvering is a testament to his character and integrity. That’s Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna—someone who remains true to his principles, regardless of the circumstances.

His recent appointment as Chairman of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) has been met with widespread acclaim from both supporters and colleagues alike. 

This appointment not only reflects his expertise in governance and leadership but also underscores the trust placed in him to lead critical initiatives that will impact the housing sector in Nigeria. Indeed, his vision for the FMBN is expected to drive positive changes, making home ownership more accessible for many Nigerians.

There's no doubt to say that Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna’s journey is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering dedication to public service. His ability to navigate challenges while maintaining a positive outlook serves as an inspiration to many. As he continues to take on new roles and responsibilities, he is sure to leave a lasting impact on the communities he serves.

Allah Ya taya riko.

My target is to win National Sports Festival Gold, says Gombe Athlete Begs Gov’t For Support

In an inspiring bid to secure a spot on the podium at the upcoming 22nd National Sports Festival tagged ‘Gateway Games Ogun 2024’,

Gombe State athlete, Lamech Danladi, has voiced a heartfelt appeal to the state government for support and funding.

The 20-year-old student of Diocesan High School in Gombe made the passionate appeal after clinching U-20 Boy’s 1500m gold medal at the ongoing Gombe State Inter Secondary School Athletics Championship in Gombe Stadium at Pantami on Wednesday.

Danladi, said after finishing first ahead of other contestants, believed that with adequate resources, he can bring home a medal for Gombe State from Gateway Games Ogun 2024.

“My dream has always been to represent my state at the National Sports Festival and my country at the international level.

“My target is to win gold medal at the next National Sports Festival, but achieving this goal requires not just personal effort but also substantial support.

SOLID MINERAL: KNSG Moves to Settle Disagreement Between Riruwai Community and a Mining Company on CDA

As part of its oversight functions of close monitoring and supervision of mining activities across the state, Kano Ministry of Solid Mineral and Natural Resources Commissioner, Alhaji Hamza Safiyanu, Tuesday in his office, convened a strategic fact-finding meeting with a high powered delegation from Riruwai Community in Doguwa local Government Area.

The meeting according to the Commissioner was organized on the directive of the state Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf to identify the remote and immediate cause of a lingering disagreement between two different indigenous  community stakeholders particularly what one of the  parties regard as  'poor compliance' to Community Development Agreement (CDA) by Century Mining Company (CMC) in the community and to recommend proper solution accordingly.

In a statement signed by the Director Public Enlightenment of the Ministry, Adamu Ibrahim Dabo, said Alhaji Hamza Safiyanu emphasized during the meeting that ...... 'you see, there is the need to have mutual understanding, tolerance and respect among the contending parties, just to resolve the disagreement once for all. Yes,  the State interest is really above that of any individual or group  as per Solid Minerals Exploration and Exploitation in the state is concerned as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf major concerns are primarily the community welfare, Safeguarding environment and public security, no more no less.

Highlighting during the meeting, the Special Adviser to Governor on Solid Minerals, Alhaji Aminu Abba Ibrahim maintained that apart from the strict compliance to the stipulated CDA, every mining company must ensure effective payment of Royalties and cooperate fully with host state government otherwise face the full wrath of the existing laws governing the conduct of the mining operations across the nation.

Engineer Usman Sule Riruwai the leader of the high powered delegation from Riruwai Community explained further 'considering the fact that the other contending party remains recalcitrant, we have no option rather than to formally intimate the higher authority, the State Governor to wade into the matter with a view to finding a lasting and amicable solution to the lingering disagreement'.

A resolution was later reached that the Commissioner and the Special Adviser on Solid Minerals will have a similar meeting with the other party as well the company in the very near future and to subsequently organise another meeting comprising both parties in attendance with a view to synergize and arrive at a collective lasting but workable solution on all the issues at hand.

The Federal Mines Officer in charge of Kano State Engineer Ahmed Musa who represented the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals Development pledged to cooperate towards having better understanding and cooperation on the matter in accordance with the laid down rules and regulations governing the solid mineral sector.

Permanent Secretary Engineer Mansur Yakubu thanked the delegation for honoring the invitation to the meeting and expressed optimism that the contending issue would soon be resolved.

Kano Government Strengthens Collaboration With PLANE To Revive Education Sector

Kano State Government has reiterated it's commitment in strengthening collaboration with Partnership For Leaning For All in Nigeria (PLANE) to revive the state education sector.

The State Commissioner of Education Dr. Ali Haruna Makoda gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving a team from the PLANE (FCDO) office, Kano that paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

In a statement signed by the Director Public Enlightenment of the Ministry, Balarabe Abdullahi Kiru, said Dr. Ali Haruna noted that the intervention programmes implemented by PLANE in Kano had contributed a lot to the present administration's effort in ensuring quality education in the state.

The Commissioner stressed that Kano State Government under the leadership of Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf will therefore continue to work closely with PLANE to ensure proper implementation of its new policies on education for the benefit of people in the state.

" We have seen the programmes that you have been undertaking and all the supports you are giving to more especially Kano State Ministry of Education. This is the support that you give to the entire people of Kano State.

" From your good report, you almost taught every aspect of education which is quite interesting and there is no doubt that PLANE is complementing effort of this administration on education development, you are really partners in progress " Acknowledged Dr. Makoda.

On the requests made by the team on other areas of support from the government site, Dr. Ali Makoda said his ministry will ensure that all demands tabled by the PLANE will be adequately attended to achieve better results.

" So, as we really thank and appreciate your intervention programmes on education in Kano, we are still urging PLANE to fully engaged with present administration in providing access to quality education to address out of school syndicate " he stated.

Earlier, the state coordinator PLANE Umar Lawan said the team was at the Commissioner's office to intimate him on the numerous intervention programmes on education sector as executed in Kano by PLANE.

Umar Lawan explained that PLANE is a 7 year project funded by Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in UK and is divided in to three windows to deliver more educational supports to the affected states.

He revealed that in PLANE, there is window one that takes care of getting the system right by improving teaching and learning in schools while window two is given the task of addressing issues on education in emergency.

" We have window three that deals with interface between the programme and the community and it is interesting to note that window one which supports teaching and learning strengthening is operated in three states comprising Kano, Jigawa and Kaduna " he revealed.

He explained that under the project, over 8000 primary schools teachers were trained in Kano and the program was conducted with full collaboration of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB)

Other intervention programmes according to the team leader, include coordination of books distribution and other learning materials at the classroom level across the 532 schools in Kano, supporting 35 school based management committee that sensitized stakeholders on book care and maintenance among others.

NSC, AFN officials poor attitude towards individual sponsored competitions worry stakeholders

 

Sports Stakeholders  across all sectors have frowned at the National Sports Commission (NSC)  and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) officials over their non challant attitude by not attending Competitions organised and sponsored by individual when invited.

During a media chat, Stakeholders noted that these national sports  agencies and their heads hardly attend privately sponsored sports  programme when invited.

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These views were expressed at the opening ceremony of the 5-day Gombe Inter-secondary School Athletics Championships at Pantami Stadium on Tuesday.

Speaking further, the organiser and sponsor of the Championship Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe regretted that concerned individuals would spend their hard earned funds to organise competitions invite the NSC and AFN officials and they won't attend.

Aside stakeholders saying they will officially table the matter before NSC and AFN hierarchy, Hon.Gara Gombe maintained that those governing sports at the national level seem not to care about individual sponsorship of sports Competitions because they will not benefit.

Gombe said, "This attitude is not limited to those at the national level, adding that at the State level, it is worse, they won't even send a representative". 

"How then would the private sector be encouraged to assist in sports sponsorship to help young talents grow in Nigeria, Gombe queries