By Suleiman Yakubu

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has praised the Federal Government for officially inaugurating the Federal University of Education in Kontagora, a move he believes will significantly advance educational opportunities in the state and beyond.
Addressing attendees on Wednesday, Governor Bago, represented by Dr. Isah Adamu, the Special Adviser on Governance and Reform, emphasized the university's potential impact on local and national education. He expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the federal government for their commitment to expanding Nigeria's educational landscape.
“The elevation of this institution to a Federal University of Education is a transformative step for Niger State and for Nigeria as a whole,” Bago said. “This university stands as a beacon of hope, dedicated to training the educators who will inspire future generations.”
Governor Bago described the university not only as an academic center but also as a hub for intellectual growth, research, and innovation. He noted that by investing in teacher education, the government is directly investing in Nigeria's future, aiming to meet the evolving needs of classrooms across the country. “We are cultivating educators who will have a lasting impact on our nation’s progress and prosperity,” he remarked.
Acknowledging challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector, such as inadequate infrastructure and limited resources, Governor Bago expressed optimism that the university’s inauguration marks a pivotal step toward overcoming these obstacles. He highlighted the university's role in opening doors for quality education, capacity-building, and societal advancement.
The governor urged the university's management, staff, and students to seize the opportunity to shape future leaders with integrity and dedication. “Your journey here holds tremendous potential. Embrace this responsibility to positively contribute to our society,” he encouraged.
Governor Bago also underscored the socio-economic benefits the university will bring to Kontagora and nearby communities, noting that the influx of students and faculty is expected to drive local economic growth, create jobs, and foster development. “This institution is more than an investment in education—it’s a catalyst for social and economic transformation,” he added.
He extended his appreciation to all stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Education, for their collaborative efforts in establishing the university. Governor Bago reiterated his administration's commitment to supporting educational initiatives, emphasizing education as the foundation for Nigeria’s advancement. “The Federal University of Education, Kontagora, represents a new chapter for Niger State and for Nigeria. Let’s work together to ensure it becomes a shining example of educational excellence in our country.”
Speaking earlier, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, Minister of State for Education, highlighted President Tinubu’s focus on education as a key pillar of national development. Dr. Sununu acknowledged the global teacher shortage and emphasized the government’s efforts to establish institutions dedicated to teacher training, aiming to mitigate the impacts of brain drain.
Dr. Sununu also encouraged students to utilize the student loan program, reinforcing that financial barriers should not hinder anyone from achieving their educational goals.

By Suleiman Yakubu

In a significant move to curb the spread of fake information on social media, the Niger State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested Nura Yerima for making false allegations against one of its personnel, SC Idris Saidu. Yerima falsely claimed that Saidu was involved in supplying rifles to bandits and circulated this misinformation on social media.
The State Commandant of the Corps, Commander Abdullahi Adamu Kambra, announced through the Command Public Relations Officer (CDPRO), DSC Abubakar Mohammed Rabiu Muti, that Yerima was arrested on October 11, 2024, in the Tayi area of Minna, the state capital.
Commander Kambra stated that the command had previously issued a press release on September 17, 2024, when Yerima was initially apprehended, reaffirming the Corps' commitment to protecting the integrity of its officers. The allegations against SC Idris Saidu were previously addressed in a court case (suit number MN/MTS/CR/60.14) dated July 8, 2015, where Saidu was exonerated.
Following the court's decision, the command issued a stern warning to the public to disregard the fabricated information and urged those involved in spreading the false claims to remove their posts. Commander Kambra reiterated the Corps' dedication to maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and combating criminal activities with professionalism. He also warned that anyone caught spreading fake information would face legal consequences.
In a related development, the command's Operation Flush team arrested three suspects on October 15, 2024, for snatching phones from their victims. The suspects were apprehended at Landmark Bakery in Tunga, Minna, around 9:00 PM. Recovered exhibits included a cutlass and other harmful weapons. The suspects are currently in custody undergoing investigation.