Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service

Gaborone 2026: Team Nigeria Targets World Relay Qualification

Sports

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March 26, 2026

Gaborone 2026: Team Nigeria Targets World Relay Qualification

Team Nigeria departed Lagos on March 25th, 2026, for the Lefika International Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, as the country intensifies its push for qualification to the World Relay Championships later this year.

The contingent of 15 athletes and three officials travelled aboard Ethiopian Airlines, with a scheduled stopover in Addis Ababa before arriving in Gaborone on March 26th.

The Secretary General of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Israel Inwang, told the media before departure that the team is in high spirits ahead of Saturday’s all-important races. He said a key member of the team, Enoch Adegoke, will be joining the team.

Read more: World Athletics Appoint First Nigerian Referee For Relays

Nigeria will compete in four events at the meet, the men’s 4x100m, men’s and women’s 4x400m and the mixed 4x400m relay, with a clear objective of securing qualification slots for the World Relay Championships slated for May, also in Gaborone.

AFN Technical Director, Gabriel Okon, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to qualify in multiple events, stressing the importance of synergy between home-based and overseas athletes.

“We need to build a strong blend of athletes at home and those abroad. Together, they can strengthen the team and deliver better results,” Okon said.

He added that the team is well-prepared and capable of competing at the highest level.

“With all things being equal, we will pick up qualification slots. The athletes have trained well, and I can confidently say they are ready,” he stated.

Notably, the women’s 4x100m and mixed 4x100m relay teams have already secured qualification for the global event, leaving the remaining squads to battle for available slots.

One of the most experienced athletes in the team, George Patience Okon, is optimistic about a strong performance.

“This race means a lot to me and the team. We are going there to give our best, and with that, we believe we will qualify for the World Championships later this year,” she said.

The team boasts a blend of youth and experience, with athletes such as Enaruna Anita Itohan, Badmus Gafari Atanda, Ezeakor Chidera, Emmanuel James Taiwo, Ojeli Ifeanyi Emmanuel, and George Patience Okon expected to play key roles.

Others on the roster include Nathaniel Samson, Adeyemi Sikiru Adewale, Sampson Victor Ime, Godwin Tejiri, Jecinter Lawrence, Chukwuka Obi Jennifer, and Omokwe Maria Thompson.

Meanwhile, the AFN Technical Director Gabriel Okon expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) for their support.

“I want to thank the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, the Director General, Bukola Olopade, and AFN President Tonobok Okowa for their support,” Okon said.

“We are grateful for the funding and backing, and we hope for continued support,”

Team Nigeria will be aiming to make a strong impact in Gaborone as they continue their build-up to the World Relay Championships.

Corruption: South African Investigators Arrest 12 Police Officers

Africa

Simon Stephanie

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March 26, 2026

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Corruption: South African Investigators Arrest 12 Police Officers

South African anti-corruption investigators have arrested 12 senior police officers over allegations of fraud and corruption, with the suspects appearing in court in Pretoria on Wednesday.

The arrests are linked to a controversial contract for health and well-being services awarded to a private company. According to the National Prosecuting Authority’s anti-corruption unit, a 13th suspect, identified as a company director, was also taken into custody.

Among those appearing in court was Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, owner of Medicare24, the company awarded the contract. Matlala, who is suspected of links to organised crime, is already being held in a maximum-security prison on separate attempted murder charges.

READ ALSO: South African Army Draws Lessons from Nigerian Army Operations

Authorities allege that some of the arrested officers were members of the bid committee responsible for evaluating and awarding the contract and should have disqualified the company’s application.

In a related development, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has been served with a warrant to appear in court next month as part of the ongoing investigation. Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed the development during court proceedings.

Police officers arrested in South Africa over corruption allegations

The case forms part of broader probes into alleged high-level corruption within the police service. President Cyril Ramaphosa previously ordered a judicial inquiry into the matter and suspended the police minister last year amid mounting allegations.

A separate parliamentary inquiry is also examining claims that senior police officials maintained corrupt relationships with alleged crime bosses, including accusations of receiving payments in exchange for protection or favours.

All 12 officers submitted affidavits supporting their bail applications, with prosecutors indicating they would not oppose bail at this stage. The case continues as authorities intensify efforts to address systemic corruption within South Africa’s law enforcement agencies.

AFRICA NEWS

Senegal Appeals To CAS Against Stripping of AFCON Title

Sports

Chidi Uduma Nwoke

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March 26, 2026

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Senegal Appeals To CAS Against Stripping of AFCON Title

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), have lodged an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), against the decision to ‌strip them of their African Cup of Nations (AFCON) title after the final result was overturned.

Senegal were ruled to have forfeited the game in Rabat on January 18th because they walked off the ⁠pitch in protest, at a potentially decisive penalty awarded to opponents Morocco.

Read more: CAF Strips Senegal of AFCON Title, Awards Morocco Victory

They returned after 14 minutes to win the match 1-0, but the appeal board of African football’s governing body (CAF) last week replaced that result with a 3-0 victory for Morocco.

“The FSF appeal seeks to set aside the CAF decision ‌and ⁠declare the FSF winners of AFCON,” the CAS said in a statement.

“It also requests an immediate suspension of the time limit to submit an appeal brief until the CAF decision is notified ⁠with full grounds.”

“A CAS Arbitral Panel will be appointed to consider this matter. ⁠Following this, a procedural calendar will be established,” the statement added.

The Senegalese government earlier called for an inquiry into ⁠the removal of the title. The FSF’s lawyers will address a press conference in Paris on Thursday.

Nigeria Outlasts South Africa At Women’s T20i

Sports

Omolara Blessing

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March 26, 2026

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Nigeria Outlasts South Africa At Women’s T20i

Nigeria’s Female Yellow Greens defeated South Africa U-19 in a gripping Super Over finish, at the fifth Nigeria Women’s Invitational T20I in Lagos.

The victory at the Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval marked a crucial turnaround for Nigeria, who had earlier faltered, as both sides sought redemption after suffering defeats in previous matches.

South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first, but immediately faced pressure from Nigeria’s bowling attack. Ashley Bernad was dismissed off the final delivery of the opening over without scoring, setting the tone for Nigeria’s dominance.

Read more: Women’s T20i: Rwanda Beats Nigeria By 6 Wickets

Jeze Campher followed shortly after, managing just one run as Nigeria’s bowlers maintained tight lines and restricted scoring opportunities.

After four overs, South Africa were struggling at two runs for two wickets, highlighting Nigeria’s early control. At the end of the powerplay, South Africa crawled to 18 for three, with their top order unable to cope with pressure.

Captain Mieke Van Voorst then anchored the innings, producing a skilful knock of 69 runs from 47 balls. Her innings combined patience and calculated aggression, ensuring South Africa recovered from a precarious position to post a competitive total.

Siphokuhle Masilela contributed 20 runs, providing valuable support during the middle overs to stabilise the innings. Jae-Leigh Filander also chipped in with 16 runs, helping South Africa reach 133 for six at the end of their 20 overs.

In reply, Nigeria began cautiously, with openers Amusa Kehinde and Christabel Chukuonye finding it difficult to build early momentum. Amusa was eventually dismissed for nine runs, leaving Nigeria at 13 for one and still searching for rhythm in the chase.

The innings progressed steadily, though scoring remained measured, as Nigeria reached 47 for one at the halfway stage. Christabel and Eguakun Omosigho contributed useful runs but were unable to significantly accelerate the scoring rate when required.

South Africa regained control by dismissing Omosigho for 18 runs, a breakthrough that shifted momentum back in their favour.

Captain Lucky Piety then stepped in and transformed the contest with an aggressive and determined batting display under pressure. Piety struck 66 runs off just 35 balls, showcasing power hitting and composure, including a decisive over that yielded 24 runs.

Her late surge dramatically altered the match situation, enabling Nigeria to level the scores and force the contest into a Super Over. Christabel provided steady support with a patient 26 runs before retiring out, ensuring Nigeria maintained wickets towards the closing stages.

In the Super Over, Nigeria posted 10 runs, with Piety and Salome combining to set a challenging target under tense conditions. Nigeria’s bowlers then delivered a composed performance, restricting South Africa to nine runs in a nervy and closely contested finish.

The narrow margin of victory underscored Nigeria’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure in a high-stakes situation.

Piety’s outstanding all-round contribution earned her the Player of the Match award, recognising her decisive impact on the outcome.

Rwanda leads the table with a perfect run, while Nigeria follows strong as hosts with momentum. South Africa U19 and Zimbabwe U19 complete the lineup.

Nigeria Cricket Federation/NAN.

UNICEF Urges Ethical Reporting to Protect Northern Nigeria Children

Health

Christopher Ojilere

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March 25, 2026

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UNICEF Urges Ethical Reporting to Protect Northern Nigeria Children

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and media stakeholders have called for ethical and sensitive reporting on children to safeguard their wellbeing, particularly in conflict-affected communities across Northern Nigeria.

The call was made during a two-day training on ethical journalism and child rights reporting organised by UNICEF in Kano for journalists from Kano and Jigawa States, Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, UNICEF’s Nutrition Manager, Chief of Field Office in Kano, Dr Karanveer Singh, described the engagement as “critical in promoting responsible journalism involving children.”

Dr Singh stressed that children represent the future and must be protected through careful and professional reporting.

“This is a very important gathering because we are talking about ethical reporting for children. Children are our future and it is our duty to protect the future of our country,” Singh said.

He noted that the prevailing challenges in Northern Nigeria make it imperative for the media to contribute to creating a supportive environment for children through accurate and responsible coverage

According to him, journalists must apply sensitivity, empathy and caution when reporting incidents involving minors to avoid causing further harm.

“The most important thing is to do no harm. We must not report anything that will aggravate the trauma of the child or the family,” he said.

Singh cautioned against revealing identities or publishing images of children involved in cases such as abduction or gender-based violence, as well as avoiding graphic details that could worsen their trauma.

He also urged the media to amplify children’s voices responsibly without misrepresenting them.

The Managing Director of Radio Kano, Comrade Abubakar Adamu Rano, emphasised the role of journalists in protecting vulnerable groups, especially children.

Represented by UNICEF Focal Person at the station, Aishatu Usman said the training would enhance journalists’ capacity to report child-related issues responsibly.

“As journalists, what we report, how we report it, and the words we use can influence people and even government decisions,” Usman added.

She noted that careless reporting could expose children to stigma and harm, while responsible journalism could help promote their rights and dignity.

“This training is very important for all of us,” she added, urging participants to actively engage and learn.

The event featured UNICEF officials, including Communication Specialist Samuel Kalu, as well as resource persons such as Dr. Jide Johnson, Jumoke Falayi and Mr. Lekan Sote.

Participants are expected to acquire skills and ethical standards required for child-sensitive reporting in line with global best practices.

Cultural Festivals Boost Commerce, Empower Traders – Commissioner

Entertainment/Tourism

Victoria Ibanga

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March 25, 2026

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Cultural Festivals Boost Commerce, Empower Traders – Commissioner

The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, says cultural festivals play a vital role in stimulating commerce, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and empowering local traders across communities.

Benson-Awoyinka said this at a news conference on Tuesday unveiling the 2026 Lagos Fanti Carnival.

The carnival is scheduled to be held on April 6 at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

The commissioner noted that tourism-driven cultural events go beyond revenue generation to strengthen grassroots economic activities.

She said lessons from the 2025 edition showed the importance of community engagement and the economic ripple effects of cultural tourism.

She added that tourism was not about revenue for the states but for enhancing and building the local communities.

“It is enhancing SMEs; it’s for the man selling roasted plantains by the roadside.
“It’s for the woman who is selling her soft drinks.
“It’s for the ice cream seller in the community, because many children are there on the streets.

It’s for those who are making the costumes. “So, it’s bringing a lot of commerce,” she said.

The commissioner explained that the 2025 edition, which was held in a smaller space, attracted overwhelming participation and made it necessary to construct a larger venue to accommodate floats and spectators.

“The number one lesson we learned was that we used a smaller space last year, so we had constraints in showing these floats.

“So, we decided to expand the area where the carnival is going to take place, and that’s why we’re right now inside the iconic Tafawa Balewa Square,” she added.

Also speaking, the General Secretary of the Brazilian Descendants Association, Mr Remi Da-Costa, highlighted the historical significance of the carnival.

Da-Costa noted that the carnival, which is a platform to showcase the community’s cultural heritage, originated in the Afro-Brazilian quarters of Lagos Island, particularly the Lafiaji, Campos, and Olowogbowo communities.

He noted the carnival’s 130-year heritage and cultural connection between Lagos and Brazil, saying it is rooted in the Portuguese word “fantasia”, meaning fantasy.

In her remarks, Chief Executive Officer of the National Arts Theatre, Tola Akerele, described the carnival as an important cultural and tourism platform that promotes national identity and community bonding.

Akerele added that the carnival showcases Nigeria’s creative strength and encourages global participation in local cultural experiences.

She praised the organisers and community for their hard work on costume design, music, food, and performance; she noted that it took dedication and commitment.

Earlier, Project Director, Lagos Fanti Carnival, Bolaji Animashaun, credited the success of the carnival to strong partnerships with Lagos State Government agencies and essential service providers.

Animashaun said the Nigerian Police, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Lagos Waste Management Authority, Lagos State Ambulance Service, Fire Service, Safety Commission, and other agencies had been actively involved in planning to ensure safety, traffic control, waste management, and emergency responses.

“This year, we’re expecting over 40,000 people; LAWMA is tasked with making sure that our waste is recyclable; the ambulance service is always ready to make sure that everyone is safe and hydrated,” she said.

She also acknowledged support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Lagos State Printing Corporation, and other government partners, noting that their collaboration would ensure effective coordination and community participation.

The journalists report that the carnival, which started among three communities, has grown to include other neighbourhood troupes.

Seven troupes, including the Isale-Eko Woro Carnival Association, the Brazilian Campos Carreta Carnival Association, and the Okoo-Faji Carnival Association, will showcase their heritage in this year’s carnival.

Others are: Lafiaji Fanti Association, Epetedo United Youth Movement, Olowogbowo Fancy Carnival Association, and Okepopo Fanti Carnival Association.

The carnival will feature elaborate floats, Afro-Brazilian cultural displays, samba-influenced high-life brass music, traditional Yoruba design elements, and culinary exhibitions reflecting a shared Lagos-Brazil food heritage.

The event will also be accompanied by the Afro-Brazilian Economic and Cultural Exchange Summit aimed at strengthening cultural tourism, investment partnerships, and long-term collaboration between Nigeria and Brazil.

The organisers said the 2026 edition would build on previous successes by expanding community participation, boosting tourism visibility, and creating opportunities for local businesses and young creatives in Lagos.

NAN

PDP Moves for Reconciliation, Assures Members Ticket

Politics

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma

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March 25, 2026

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PDP Moves for Reconciliation, Assures Members Ticket

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to internal reconciliation, assuring members and supporters that it will field candidates in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.

This formed part of a press briefing delivered by the party’s National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, on the ongoing reconciliation efforts aimed at resolving internal disputes within the party.

Turaki disclosed that the reconciliation initiative followed an advisory by the Court of Appeal, Ibadan Division, urging parties involved in ongoing litigation to explore amicable settlement in order to preserve the unity of the party and safeguard its electoral prospects.

He explained that the PDP Board of Trustees, led by Adolphus Wabara, constituted a high-powered committee to engage aggrieved members and address lingering issues affecting party cohesion.

According to him, the National Working Committee (NWC) demonstrated goodwill by postponing the scheduled National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Caucus meetings as part of efforts to de-escalate tensions.

“While we anticipated a reciprocal gesture, we have instead witnessed the use of inflammatory rhetoric and derogatory statements. Nonetheless, we remain focused on the broader implications of this dispute, especially within the timelines of the Electoral Act,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Turaki confirmed that leaders of the opposing factions have begun dialogue, noting that both sides are exploring pathways toward a lasting resolution.

He urged party supporters nationwide to avoid actions or statements capable of undermining the reconciliation process.

“To all aspirants who have stood with us, we assure you that, by the grace of God, the PDP will field candidates for all elective offices in line with Article 6(2) of the party’s constitution,” he added.

The PDP also expressed appreciation to Nigerians, who have continued to show confidence in the party through its electronic registration platform, stressing that efforts are ongoing to rebuild unity and strengthen its position as a viable opposition.

Soludo Swears In Key Officials, Urges Commitment

Politics

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma

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March 25, 2026

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Soludo Swears In Key Officials, Urges Commitment

Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, on Wednesday, inaugurated a new set of senior government officials and advisers, reinforcing his administration’s governance agenda and calling for disciplined, service-driven leadership.

The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Executive Council Chamber of the Government House, popularly known as the “Light House” in Awka, marked what the governor described as the first phase of a broader rollout of appointments under his “Solution 2.0” team.

Among those sworn in were Mrs Chiamaka Nnake as Secretary to the State Government; Mrs Ngozi Iwouno as Head of Service; Dr Ben Nwankwo as Chief of Staff; Dr Vincent Okechi as Deputy Chief of Staff; and Joachim Anetoh as Principal Secretary to the Governor. Others include Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN) as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice and Uzochukwu Okafor as Commissioner for Finance.

Additional appointments include special advisers and senior aides across key sectors such as community security, innovation, health, special projects, and protocol, reflecting the administration’s focus on institutional coordination and policy delivery.

When administering the oath of office and allegiance, the governor emphasised that the appointments were not rewards for political loyalty but a call to rigorous public service. He noted that all appointees had undergone a thorough vetting process and were selected based on competence, integrity, and capacity to deliver results.

“You have been called to serve, not to benefit,” Soludo said. “This responsibility is a burden of trust placed on your shoulders by millions of Ndi Anambra. It demands sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the public good.”

He urged officials to internalise the oath of office as a guiding principle in their duties, stressing that governance requires collaboration, coordination, and a shared sense of purpose. Using a football analogy, he highlighted teamwork as essential to achieving the administration’s goals.

The governor also appealed to families and associates of the appointees to moderate personal expectations, noting that public office requires focus and dedication to the collective interest.
Describing the moment as both an honour and a challenge, Soludo said the state is “in a race against time” to build a liveable and prosperous environment, adding that more appointments would follow in subsequent phases.

In brief remarks, some of the newly sworn-in officials pledged to uphold the administration’s vision and work diligently to deliver on its development priorities.

The new officials are expected to assume duties immediately, advancing the government’s core policy objectives across critical sectors.

APC Solidifies Southeast Grip Amid Consensus Zonal Convention

Politics

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma

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March 25, 2026

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APC Solidifies Southeast Grip Amid Consensus Zonal Convention

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has effectively reorganised its leadership structure in the Southeast, adopting a “consensus mode” to elect a new Zonal Executive Committee during a high-stakes convention held at the Hotel Presidential in Enugu on Wednesday.

The gathering strategically showcased the party’s increasing dominance in a region traditionally regarded as an opposition stronghold, attracting the region’s political elite.

The presence of three sitting governors underscored the party’s shifting fortunes in the East. Leading the charge was the host, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, whose 2025 defection from the PDP has fundamentally altered the region’s political map.

Joining him were Governors Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and Francis Nwaifuru of Ebonyi State, forming a formidable triumvirate of APC power.

Governor Mbah, addressing the delegates, described the APC in the Southeast as a “solid product” that has become increasingly easy to market to the electorate. He attributed the party’s success to the “Renewed Hope” reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu, which he claimed are gaining traction in the region.

The governor expressed immense satisfaction with the party’s internal cohesion, specifically commending the peaceful conduct of recent congresses at the ward, local government, and state levels.

He noted that the era of “fragmented politics” in the Southeast was finally coming to a close. The procedural transition began when Governor Francis Nwaifuru of Ebonyi moved a formal motion to dissolve the previous zonal executive.

The motion, which was adopted without dissent, cleared the path for the unveiling of a pre-agreed leadership list.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu, took the podium to announce the new leadership. In a move reflecting the party’s desire for continuity, Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu was returned as the National Vice Chairman (Southeast).

Arodiogbu, a medical doctor and seasoned administrator, previously held the position and is considered a key architect of the party’s recent expansion in the zone. His re-emergence is expected to provide the stability needed ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Adding to the diversity of the new executive, Dr Oby Ajih emerged as the Southeast Zonal Woman Leader. Her selection was greeted with applause, signalling the party’s intent to deepen its engagement with the female voting bloc across the five eastern states.

Ramadan Relief: Sokoto Government Supports 18,400 Families

Nigeria

Kamila Bello

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March 25, 2026

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Ramadan Relief: Sokoto Government Supports 18,400 Families

The Sokoto State Government under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, through the Zakat and Endowment Agency, has distributed essential support to 18,400 families across 87 districts in 23 local government areas of the state.

The Executive Chairman of the State Zakat and Endowment Agency, Malam Lawal Maidoki, stated this while briefing journalists on activities of the special support to orphans and the needy by the state government.

Maidoki said over N727,120,000 was expended for the gesture by Governor Aliyu to carry out the process and reduce suffering among the vulnerable across the state.

According to him, the support initiative brought joy and alleviated hardship during the sacred month of Ramadan 1447 AH and the Eid ul-Fitr celebration.

“The support includes food, clothing materials, and cash targeting the most vulnerable members of our society. We are glad to see the smiles on the faces of our beneficiaries.

“With the intervention, 100 vulnerable orphans in each district received Sallah clothes and a cash donation of N10,000 each.

“Additionally, 100 vulnerable individuals, including widows, elderly persons, the disabled, and needy Islamic teachers, were provided with a 25-kilogram bag of rice and N10,000 in cash support each,” Maidoki explained.

He added that the effort was a testament to Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s commitment to the welfare of Sokoto State citizens.

He further expressed gratitude to Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his remarkable generosity in donating 10,000 clothing materials and ten million naira to support the vulnerable in all the 23 local government areas of the state, including orphans and IDPs.

“The gesture has undoubtedly contributed significantly to alleviating poverty and bringing joy to those celebrating Eid ul-Fitr,” he added.

The executive chairman, however, extended profound gratitude to Governor Aliyu and his administration for their unwavering support and vision for a more compassionate society.

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