Gombe governor identifies insecurity as biggest threat to Northern Nigeria, launches 'Unite Against Terror' campaign
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya stated that insecurity is the primary threat to Northern Nigeria's stability and development, urging collective action against terrorism and criminal activities. Speaking at the launch of the "Unite Against Terror" campaign, Governor Yahaya emphasized that security is a shared responsibility among the government, security agencies, and citizens. He called on residents to report suspicious activities, warning that sustainable development is unattainable without peace, as insecurity directly impacts economic and social progress. The governor commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices and urged them to use modern technology and community intelligence while respecting human rights. He also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women groups, and civil society organizations to support peace-building efforts, noting that criminals thrive on division. Governor Yahaya expressed support for the Federal Government's anti-terrorism campaign under President Bola Tinubu. In a related development, he swore in newly elected chairpersons for the state's 11 local government areas and 13 local council development areas, stressing that effective local governance is crucial for addressing insecurity and promoting grassroots development. He defended the creation of the 13 LCDAs as a reform to bring governance closer to the people and highlighted improvements in local government finances. Governor
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Mrs. Angela Emuwa, Chairman of PUNCH Nigeria Limited, and Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC, were among 10 women honored at the third Extraordinary Women Advancing Healthcare EWAH Awards in Lagos. Mrs. Emuwa received recognition for her contributions to healthcare development, innovation, and community impact, particularly in deepening access to healthcare in Nigeria. Other awardees included Njide Ndili, President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria; Viviane Ihekweazu, Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch; and Dr. Amina Mohammed-Baloni, former Kaduna State Commissioner for Health. The EWAH Awards, which originated from the Commonwealth Institute, aim to acknowledge the impact of women in the health sector, provide visibility for their work, and encourage their efforts to strengthen healthcare systems and bridge the gender gap in healthcare leadership. Mrs. Emuwa stated that the award affirmed PUNCH's commitment to advancing healthcare in Nigeria through investigative journalism, focusing on areas such as maternal and child health, immunization, and public health awareness. She emphasized PUNCH's role in influencing policies and holding institutions accountable. Clare Omatseye, Chairman of the Board of Directors, EWAH Award Nigeria, highlighted that the awards seek to inspire transformation and meaningful contributions. Dr. Bisi Bright, Regional Representative for EWAH Awards Africa,
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