Author: The North Journals

In a landmark move to enhance air travel connectivity and economic cooperation, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed an amended Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). The agreement, aimed at fostering stronger aviation ties between both nations, was signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, during the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium 2025. The revised BASA is expected to significantly boost passenger traffic, streamline air services, and open new avenues for mutual economic growth. While signing the deal, Minister Keyamo emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to maximizing the benefits of this strengthened partnership. He further urged the UAE authorities…

By Chisom Seraphine Obi The rain had been relentless for days. Heavy, pounding, merciless. The streets, once bustling with life, had transformed into rivers of murky water, swallowing everything in their path. Houses stood half-submerged, their walls bearing the scars of nature’s wrath. The once-familiar neighborhood had become unrecognizable—a ghost town drowning under the storm’s fury. Standing at the edge of what used to be a lively street, I watched as the water crept closer to our neighbor’s small house. It was the first flood I had seen in years, and it was nothing short of terrifying. The currents swirled…

“Aridity is the relative, long-term lack of available, life-sustaining moisture in terrestrial climates,” emphasizing its broad environmental and societal impacts. The world is drying up—literally. More than three-quarters of the Earth’s land has experienced a shift towards arid conditions in recent decades. Once humid regions have transformed into drylands, altering ecosystems, jeopardizing agriculture, and threatening the livelihoods of billions. As climate change intensifies, aridity is becoming a global crisis, requiring immediate adaptation and mitigation efforts. Aridity, a long-term climatic condition characterized by a lack of sufficient moisture to sustain life, has expanded across the globe at an alarming rate. According…

Yobe State Government, through the Ministry for Livestock Development, has engaged Morocco’s largest livestock farm, “Maroc Lait,” for the transfer of technology, experience, and knowledge to enhance livestock development in the state. According to the delegation, this move prepares for the smooth launch of the newly established Yobe State Ministry of Livestock Development. Secretary to the Yobe State Government and leader of the delegation, Baba Malam Wali, explained that the state government is committed to leveraging existing potential to boost livestock development. “As a leading state in livestock production, Yobe State is willing to explore every available opportunity to support…

By Mohammed Abdulazeez Gunmen suspected to be armed robbers have reportedly killed two police officers at Kolere Police Out-Post in Fune Local Government Area of Yobe State. Investigations had it that series of attacks were carried out on the same outpost by groups of thugs, suspected to be armed robbers, leading to the death of a police officers, late DSP Ali Pindar who arrested a high profiled gang leader in the community and transferred the suspect to Damagum Divisional Police Headquarters in Fune LGA, where the suspect was later arraigned and granted bail. A source from the community with name…

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has concluded all plans to review the transaction fees for Automated Teller Machine (ATM) services. The new charges will take effect on March 1, 2025. In a circular signed by the acting director Financial Policy and Regulation Department, John Onojah, explained that the fee adjustment aims to address the rising operational costs and enhance efficiency within the banking sector. Mr Onojah said the last time the ATM transaction fees were revised was in 2019 when the CBN reduced withdrawal fees from ₦65 to ₦35. While the new policy will result in higher costs for…

The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has commenced the selection process for new Permanent Secretaries and the Accountant-General of the Federation, reaffirming its commitment to a transparent and merit-driven process. Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, announced in Abuja that the rigorous selection aims to ensure only the most qualified and competent individuals are appointed. The process, approved by the President, is open to Grade Level 17 officers in the Federal Civil Service who have held their positions for at least two years and meet the required criteria.…

By Innocent Jonah Kalu Nigeria’s economy is facing significant challenges, including a high poverty rate of 38.9%, inflation, and a substantial infrastructure deficit. In this context, creating more states could exacerbate these issues. Historically, state creation in Nigeria has been driven by military decrees, with General Yakubu Gowon creating 12 states in 1967, followed by General Murtala Mohammed’s creation of 7 states in 1976. Economic ImplicationsCreating new states would require significant financial resources, which could be challenging for Nigeria’s economy. The country’s infrastructure deficit, high poverty rate, and inflation would need to be addressed before considering the creation of new…

Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has once again reiterated his stance on the revocation of government lands that have been illegally encroached upon or occupied by individuals and organizations. The Governor, who spoke to journalists after inspecting ongoing government projects, emphasized that his directive remains in full force and that necessary actions would be taken to reclaim these lands. Fintiri’s statement follows his inspection of the office facilities of the State Agricultural Mechanization Authority in Yola, where he expressed concerns over the illegal occupation of land meant for government use. Fintiri condemned the actions of those who have taken…

By Samuel Adejo Benue State has moved closer to addressing the long-standing traffic congestion in Makurdi as Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia personally supervised the commencement of the geotechnical survey at Wurukum Roundabout. This marks the crucial first phase of the long-anticipated Wurukum Flyover project. A joint team from the Federal Ministry of Works and China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) has begun preliminary groundwork, following the project’s inclusion in the Makurdi-Otukpo-Otukpa-Enugu dualization road initiative—an effort championed by Governor Alia. Speaking at the site, Governor Alia emphasized the transformative impact of the flyover, stating, “Beyond easing traffic, this project will stimulate…