By Abel Daniel, Lafia

A recent media report alleging that pupils in Nasarawa State public schools are learning on bare floors has sparked controversy, prompting the state government to issue a strong denial and describe the report as misleading and damaging.

In a statement released by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Public Affairs, Comrade Peter Ahemba, the government dismissed the claim as a deliberate attempt to undermine its efforts in improving educational infrastructure. Ahemba argued that the report ignored the strides made by the Sule-led administration in upgrading learning facilities across the state.

While refuting the allegations, the government admitted that some schools in the state face infrastructural challenges, a situation it attributed to broader developmental hurdles common in growing economies. Ahemba, however, highlighted that the administration has committed substantial resources toward addressing these gaps.

He outlined some of the interventions, including the recent distribution of thousands of desks and chairs through the State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB). He also mentioned ongoing initiatives such as perimeter fencing, provision of boreholes, and classroom renovations aimed at creating a more conducive learning environment.

Despite the government’s defense, civil society groups and education stakeholders have called for an independent assessment of the state of infrastructure in public schools. They argue that while the administration’s efforts are commendable, the persistence of reports highlighting poor learning conditions indicates the need for closer scrutiny.

Speaking to our reporter, a representative of an education-focused NGO, Safiya Usman, emphasized the importance of transparency. “Rather than dismissing the reports outright, the government should open its doors for independent inspections to ensure accountability and identify areas requiring urgent attention,” she said.

Parents and community leaders have echoed similar sentiments, urging the government to strike a balance between defending its achievements and addressing lingering challenges in the education sector.

Meanwhile, Ahemba has urged journalists to verify their sources before publishing reports, stressing that misinformation could harm the government’s image and undermine public confidence.

The controversy has reignited debates on the broader issue of funding for education in Nigeria, with analysts stressing the need for sustained investment to address gaps in school infrastructure and ensure quality education for all children.

From Abel Daniel, Lafia

The United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC) has inducted Peter Ahemba, Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, as an Ambassador of Peace. The ceremony, held over the weekend in Lagos, highlighted Ahemba’s contributions to fostering peaceful coexistence and community development.

Speaking at the induction, the Director-General of UN-POLAC, Prof. Obong Halo Eton, described the recognition as part of the organization’s tradition of honoring individuals who exemplify the values of peace and service. He noted that the inductees would undergo further training to enhance their capacity in conflict mediation, dialogue facilitation, and promoting understanding within their communities.

In a virtual address, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged the new Peace Ambassadors to embrace their roles as advocates of human rights and champions of peaceful coexistence. He emphasized the global significance of their new responsibilities.

Meanwhile, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule commended Ahemba for the prestigious recognition. In a personally signed congratulatory letter, the governor acknowledged Ahemba’s contributions to peacebuilding, particularly during his tenure as President of the Tiv Development Association (TIDA) in Nasarawa State.

“Your recognition as an International Peace Advocate is a testament to your unwavering commitment to promoting harmony among people and dedication to your roles. It is my belief that this honor will further motivate you to continue your selfless service to humanity,” Governor Sule stated.

The governor described Ahemba as a worthy ambassador of the ideals of peace, adding that his induction would greatly benefit the work of UN-POLAC and the broader cause of peace advocacy.

As part of his new role, Ahemba is expected to collaborate with UN-POLAC in conflict resolution, fostering dialogue, and promoting positive living within and beyond Nigeria. His efforts will align with international best practices to advance the principles of peaceful coexistence.

The event underscored the global importance of empowering individuals like Ahemba to take active roles in shaping a more harmonious and inclusive society.

Lafia, Nasarawa State – A devastating fire swept through the New Modern Market in Lafia late Thursday night, destroying more than 30 shops and goods worth millions of Naira. The blaze, which started around 9:30 pm on December 5, raged until the early hours of Friday, December 6, 2024, leaving traders counting heavy losses.

Firefighters from the Nasarawa State Fire Service rushed to the scene upon receiving a distress call but faced challenges containing the inferno.
Piles of refuse dumped indiscriminately around the market obstructed their efforts, while the intense heat from the flames further hindered operations.

Builder Ombogus-Joshua, the Director of the Nasarawa State Fire Service, confirmed the incident, stating that his team is investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the extent of the damage.

A trader whose shop was destroyed, Musa Abdullahi lamented the significant losses. “Forty new sewing machines delivered just that morning were all burnt, along with three shops owned by my father. Most of the affected shops were tailoring businesses with fabrics and accessories fully stocked for the festive season,” he said.

According to Abdullahi, the fire also destroyed shops selling shoes and clothes, leaving traders without their merchandise during a critical sales period.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, but traders and market stakeholders are urging authorities to improve safety measures and enforce stricter waste management policies to prevent future disasters.

The Nasarawa State Fire Service has promised to release a comprehensive report once investigations are concluded. Meanwhile, traders and residents are calling for immediate support from the government to help affected business owners recover from the tragedy.

This fire is a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining market infrastructure and implementing fire prevention strategies to safeguard livelihoods.