The Historica Nigeria

2025

News

Ayrah Media Concept Leads National Dialogue on AI in PR to Mark World Public Relations Day 2025

Demonstrating its role as a thought leader in Nigeria’s communication industry, Ayrah Media Concept has successfully organized a high-level virtual webinar to commemorate World Public Relations Day 2025, placing the spotlight on the critical role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping PR strategies and practice. Held on Tuesday, July 16, the event was themed: “The Imperativeness of AI in Contemporary PR Communication Strategies,” and was hosted in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Kano Chapter, and PrimePulse Communications Ltd. The webinar brought together some of the most respected voices in academia and industry, including Professor Sule Yau Sule, Senior Lecturer at Bayero University Kano; Dr. Jamila Mohammed Dahiru, development communication expert and lecturer at the University of Abuja; and Mr. Ayodele Ishola, a leading strategic communication and crisis management consultant. The session was professionally moderated by Samira Usman Adam, CEO of PrimePulse Communications Ltd. Read Also: Kano Online Media Chapel Mourns Former President Muhammadu Buhari In a keynote presentation, Professor Sule Yau Sule issued a strong call to the NIPR to develop clear and enforceable ethical guidelines on the use of AI in public relations, warning that the increasing sophistication of AI tools presents both opportunity and danger for the profession. “AI-generated content can now imitate human communication so effectively that it becomes a challenge to detect misinformation,” Prof. Sule stated. “If left unchecked, this could undermine the credibility of public relations and the trust it is built on.” He described AI as the most impactful technology of the 21st century but cautioned against overdependence. “PR professionals must retain their capacity for critical thinking and uphold ethical standards, even when using the most advanced AI tools.” Dr. Jamila Dahiru took the conversation further by examining AI’s transformative potential in development communication, particularly in underserved communities. Highlighting her experience with initiatives like AI Sisters, she described how AI tools such as machine learning, chatbots, and natural language processing can support inclusive public engagement and bridge educational gaps. “AI should be used to amplify human insight, not replace it,” she said. “Our strength as communicators lies in empathy, ethics, and emotional intelligence qualities no machine can replicate.” Adding a strategic industry perspective, Mr. Ayodele Ishola discussed how PR professionals can use AI to support campaigns, reputation management, and crisis response while warning against allowing AI to control narratives blindly. “AI is augmented intention,” he noted. “It amplifies the intentions of its user. As professionals, we must guide the message with our head, heart, and judgment.” Mr. Ishola emphasized the use of tools like Top Worker and Prices Guru in enhancing campaign precision and brand monitoring, but stressed the irreplaceable value of human touch in storytelling and brand trust. A representative of the NIPR, Mr. Aliyu, also addressed participants during the event, highlighting the importance of continued professional development and inviting practitioners to become certified members of the Institute. In his vote of thanks, Auwal Sani, PR Manager at Ayrah Media Concept and Coordinator of the Webinar, expressed gratitude to the speakers, moderator, partners, and attendees. He noted that the event marks the beginning of a new era of strategic conversations to be led by Ayrah Media Concept. “This initiative reflects our commitment to innovation, ethics, and capacity building in the communications industry,” he said. With this successful webinar, Ayrah Media Concept has cemented its position as a forward-thinking agency driving meaningful dialogue on the intersection of technology and public relations in Nigeria.

National, Politics

Atiku Abubakar Resigns from PDP, Cites Party’s Trajectory

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has formally resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Atiku, who was the party’s presidential candidate in multiple elections, announced his resignation on Wednesday, citing concerns over the trajectory the party has taken in recent times. Read Also: Ganduje Lauded by Former Kano Cabinet for Party-Building Efforts Although details remain sketchy, sources say the former vice president is now a key player in the emerging opposition coalition. Details later…

Feature, Kano

A Legacy of Transformation: The Remarkable Leadership of Associate Professor Sunusi Ahmad Yakubu as Provost of KCEPS

‎As Associate Professor Sunusi Ahmad Yakubu prepares to conclude his tenure as the Provost of Kano State College of Education and Preliminary Studies (KCEPS), his remarkable journey stands as a shining example of leadership, vision, and tireless service to education in Kano State and beyond. Since assuming the mantle of leadership in 2017, Prof. Yakubu has steered the college through a new era of growth, reform, and recognition, turning KCEPS into a beacon of excellence. ‎ ‎LAYING THE FOUNDATION: BUILDING ON THE LEGACY OF LEGENDS ‎ ‎Upon his appointment by the former Executive Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Prof. Sunusi Ahmad Yakubu was challenged to articulate his vision for the college. He responded with a strong commitment to consolidation—building upon the solid foundation laid by his predecessors, including revered names such as Malam Sa’eedu Gwarzo, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, Late Malam Abubakar Imam, Malam Abdulhamid Hassan, Malam Tijjani Ibrahim, AT Abdullahi, Sa’eedu Zakari of Garun Babba, Dr. Kabir (former Head of Service), and Prof. Sani Lawan Malumfashi, whom he succeeded. ‎ ‎Guided by the vision to consolidate and expand, Prof. Yakubu initiated a robust process to reform the structure and academic framework of the institution. One of his most notable achievements was the transformation of the College’s name and legal framework from CAS to KCEPS. This institutional rebranding paved the way for the issuance of authentic and recognized NCE certificates, a milestone that had been long overdue. ‎ ‎HISTORIC ACADEMIC AND INFRASTRUCTURAL ADVANCEMENTS ‎ ‎A key focus of Prof. Yakubu’s leadership has been addressing long-standing gaps in the college’s academic and administrative systems. For the first time in its history since its founding in 1972, major legal, academic, and infrastructural reforms were actualized. These included the introduction of a dual deputy provost structure—Deputy Provost for NCE and Deputy Provost for CEC—to ensure efficient governance and specialization. ‎ ‎Through his leadership, KCEPS attracted massive support from TETFund, resulting in the construction of new, modern buildings and facilities. These interventions broke a long-standing stagnation that saw the college fall behind despite having produced distinguished alumni such as former Kano State Governor Sen. Kabiru Ibrahim Gaya, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar Na’abba, former Jigawa Governor Ali Sa’adu Birnin Kudu, and the Former DSS Director General Magaji Bichi, among others. ‎ ‎HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT: INVESTING IN STAFF AND STUDENTS ‎ ‎Prof. Yakubu’s leadership was not only about infrastructure—it was deeply rooted in human development. He prioritized the advancement of lecturers and academic staff, facilitating overseas and local training opportunities. Today, many lecturers have earned advanced degrees, with over 50 benefiting from scholarships and study grants. ‎ ‎Lecturers pursuing master’s degrees now receive between ₦1.2 million to ₦1.5 million, while those studying for PhDs receive as much as ₦4.5 million—an unprecedented development in the college’s history. Additionally, over 50 lecturers have participated in local and international conferences, including training programs at ASCON in Lagos, helping to enhance their academic and administrative capacity. ‎ ‎The Train the Trainer program has sent staff abroad, including to the United States, to acquire global best practices in education. ‎ ‎DIGITAL REVOLUTION AND COMMUNITY EXPANSION ‎ ‎Under his watch, KCEPS embraced technological advancement with the introduction of e-learning facilities that allow students to access academic materials and lectures online. Furthermore, he spearheaded the creation of an Annex Campus, expanding the college’s outreach and presence within the state. ‎ ‎Understanding the challenges rural students face, Prof. Yakubu secured Amana College in Kunchi Now (Ghari College of Education) as a study center, where over 100 students where then enrolled in NCE Programs. Furthermore The college then operates hostels that accommodate more than 360 students, creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment. ‎ ‎EMPOWERING YOUTHS AND SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY ‎ ‎Recognizing the changing dynamics of youth interest and the increasing cost of living, Prof. Yakubu initiated vocational training programs, including weekend tailoring classes for students without formal education. These programs aim to empower youth with practical skills to support themselves economically. Discussions are underway with the Kano State Government and local authorities to scale up these initiatives. ‎ ‎Importantly, his administration also ushered in the Association of Students Union—a structure that has strengthened student representation and engagement across the college. ‎ ‎A CHAMPION OF SOCIAL JUSTICE ‎ ‎True to his roots in activism and social development, Prof. Sunusi Ahmad Yakubu has been a strong ally of student leaders and comrades. He has provided scholarships to many orphaned youths and financially disadvantaged students, enabling them to achieve their dreams of formal education. His door has remained open to those in need, reflecting his belief in education as a right, not a privilege. ‎ ‎A LEADER DEPARTING WITH HONOR ‎ ‎As his tenure comes to an end, Associate Professor Sunusi Ahmad Yakubu leaves behind a legacy of transformation, compassion, and service. He didn’t just lead KCEPS—he elevated it. Through vision, integrity, and a commitment to justice, he has written a bold chapter in the history of education in Kano State. ‎ ‎The second part of this compelling conversation with the outgoing Provost is on the way—stay tuned. ‎ ‎Indeed, heroes don’t only lead; they inspire generations. ‎ ‎By: Comerade Bashir A Bashir

National, News

After Buhari’s Passing, Shehu Sani Urges Leaders to Reflect and Reform

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has called on present and future Nigerian leaders to reflect on the public’s intense reactions following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Sani said the outpouring of emotions, many of them raw and unforgiving shows a shift in the attitude of Nigerians towards leadership and accountability. “The present and future crop of Nigerian leaders should take lessons from the wave of unrefined emotions of Nigerians in the last 48 hours,” he wrote. “A new generation of retributive citizens have evolved: unrestrained in their anger, unfiltered in their bitterness, and unforgiving in their souls.” Read Also: Buhari Laid to Rest Amid Tears, Tributes in Daura The comments come as tributes and criticisms continue to flood social media and public discourse following the passing of the former president in London. While some Nigerians have mourned Buhari’s death with respect and nostalgia, others have used the moment to voice long-held grievances about his administration’s policies and perceived shortcomings. Sani, a human rights activist and former lawmaker, suggested that the tone of reactions should serve as a wake-up call for those in leadership positions, warning that citizens are now more vocal, critical, and unwilling to overlook governance failures. The late President Buhari died on Sunday, July 13, in London after a prolonged illness. He was buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, on Tuesday.  

Feature, National

Progress Over Propaganda: How Dr. Gwaram is Redefining Leadership at FCAPT

In an era where digital misinformation often overshadows genuine development, it is unfortunate but not surprising, that those unsettled by real progress resort to baseless propaganda. Such is the case with the recent unfounded allegations targeting the leadership of Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, Provost of the Federal College of Agricultural Produce Technology (FCAPT), Kano. Since assuming office in 2020, Dr. Gwaram has steered the college through a period of remarkable transformation academically, structurally, and administratively. The spurious claims circulating online ranging from unauthorized property auctions to nepotism and extortion are not only false but clearly engineered by those threatened by his success. Most of these accusations have been peddled by unverified platforms posing as credible news outlets, engaging in what can best be described as digital sabotage. Contrary to the false narratives, Dr. Gwaram’s tenure has delivered measurable progress. From 2020 to 2025, the college attained full accreditations for all existing programmes while introducing several new ones at both the National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) levels. These include Crop Production Technology, Nutrition and Dietetics, Software and Web Development, and Cooperative Economics, among other programmes aligned with national needs and the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Related: Provost Gwaram Unveils FCAPT Progress, Seeks Urgent Completion of Bunkure Campus Infrastructure development has also seen unprecedented advancement. Decaying classrooms, laboratories, and hostels have been rehabilitated or completely overhauled. FCAPT now enjoys uninterrupted 24-hour water supply, powered by solar energy, and essential buildings such as the provost’s office, college library, and clinic now operate on clean energy solutions. The recent procurement and installation of a 33KVA transformer entirely financed through the college’s internally generated revenue demonstrates both accountability and efficient financial management. In line with the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) Act, the College successfully established a commercial arm that produces and packages agricultural goods under the FCAPT brand. Products such as FCAPT Tomato Paste and FCAPT Quick Meal have already received NAFDAC approval, underscoring the college’s commitment to practical innovation and enterprise. Community outreach has also remained a core pillar of the institution’s mandate. Over 1,400 women and youth from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones have received training in food processing, post-harvest technology, and agribusiness skills, equipping them with tools to become economically self-reliant. Furthermore, FCAPT has deepened its engagement with development partners such as GIZ, UNESCO, NBTE, Indorama, and Self-Help Africa. These collaborations have enabled student participation in national and international agricultural exhibitions and helped showcase FCAPT’s growing portfolio of research and innovation. Read Also: PTDF Shortlists 5,747 for 2025 Overseas Scholarship Interviews Perhaps one of the most underappreciated achievements under Dr. Gwaram’s leadership is the prioritization of staff development and welfare. Within five years, the college has produced 13 PhD holders and 33 MSc graduates among its academic staff, significantly boosting research capacity and institutional credibility. Promotions are granted as due, and staff continue to benefit from welfare packages and training opportunities. What is unfolding today is not the failure of leadership but rather, the pushback from detractors unsettled by visible progress. The false accusations being amplified in certain corners of the internet are nothing more than deliberate attempts to smear the legacy of a leader who has elevated FCAPT into a national model of excellence in agricultural education. Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram’s leadership is anchored in vision, transparency, and inclusive service. His administration has brought FCAPT into national relevance, supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in the areas of food security, youth empowerment, and agricultural innovation. Rather than be distracted by unsubstantiated claims, the public should focus on the real and tangible results that continue to shape the lives of students, staff, and surrounding communities. Umar Idris Shuaibu is a digital journalist and writes from Kano.

National, News

Kano SDP Chairman Mourns Death of Former President Muhammadu Buhari

The Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kano State, Alhaji Ali Shettima, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his death as a profound national loss. In a condolence message issued on Monday, Alhaji Shettima joined millions of Nigerians and the international community in mourning the late elder statesman, hailing him as a disciplined leader and patriotic figure whose legacy will endure in Nigeria’s political history. “President Buhari was a towering statesman, a disciplined leader, and a patriot whose legacy will remain deeply etched in the annals of our nation’s history,” the statement read. Read Also: Buhari: Nigeria lost a true patriot – Sule Garo “From his military service to his time as Head of State and later as a democratically elected President, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity, sovereignty, and the fight against corruption.” While acknowledging their differing political affiliations, the Kano SDP Chairman praised Buhari’s humility, devotion to public service, and contributions to national stability. “Though we belonged to different political platforms, I respected President Buhari’s devotion to public service, his humility in leadership, and his dedication to national stability. His death is not only a loss to his family and political allies but also to a generation of Nigerians who saw in him a symbol of integrity and resilience,” he added. Alhaji Shettima extended heartfelt condolences to Buhari’s family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, praying that Almighty Allah forgive the former president’s shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.

Kano, National, News

Buhari: Nigeria lost a true patriot – Sule Garo

Former All-Progressives Congress (APC), deputy governorship candidate in Kano State, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo mourned the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. In a statement on Tuesday, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo described the former president as a true patriot and a disciplined leader. He added that the death of the former president was a great national loss, saying Muhammadu Buhari redefined democratic politics in Nigeria and ensured that subsequent governments stick to the process. Read Also: Buhari Laid to Rest Amid Tears, Tributes in Daura Garo said, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un! I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London. “Muhammadu Buhari was a true patriot and a disciplined leader, whose entire life symbolized complete commitment to nation-building. His true conviction in the sovereignty of this country emblematized gentlemanliness. “His death is not just a loss to his immediate family or his hometown, Daura, but it is also a national loss. “In truth, the late Muhammadu Buhari redefined democratic politics in Nigeria and ensured that subsequent governments stick to the process. “I extend my hearty condolences to his family, the government of Katsina state and the Nigerian Government, as well as all Nigerians. “May Allah the Almighty forgive his shortcomings and admit him into Jannatul Firdaus. Amin.”

Katsina, National, News

Buhari Laid to Rest Amid Tears, Tributes in Daura

The burial ceremony of former President Muhammadu Buhari was held on Tuesday at his residence in Daura, Katsina State, marking the end of a life defined by military service, political leadership, and national transformation. The funeral was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, and family members, including the Emir of Daura, His Royal Highness Alhaji Faruk Umar Faruk, who paid tribute to Buhari’s enduring legacy. The monarch praised the late president for his unwavering dedication to the emirate, Katsina State, and the Nigerian nation. Read Also: Ganduje Mourns Buhari, Describes Him as Symbol of Integrity and Patriotism As the final rites were performed and the casket was lowered into the earth, emotions ran high. Residents of Daura and visitors wept and prayed, reflecting on the life of a man who many regarded as a symbol of northern pride and a believer in national rebirth. Born on December 17, 1942, Muhammadu Buhari rose through the ranks of the Nigerian military, serving as Head of State from 1983 to 1985, before returning as a democratically elected president in 2015. His two-term civilian administration focused on tackling insecurity, corruption, and revamping agriculture and infrastructure—though not without controversies and fierce criticism. National flags were flown at half-mast as Nigeria entered an official mourning period. Condolences have poured in from around the world, including from the European Union, African Union, United States, and United Kingdom. In a tribute, the African Union described Buhari as “a pan-African elder statesman whose leadership inspired reforms far beyond Nigeria’s borders.” As Daura settles into mourning, Nigerians across the country are reflecting on the complex legacy of a leader who remained deeply committed to the unity, sovereignty, and future of Nigeria. Though his earthly chapter has now closed, Muhammadu Buhari’s imprint on Nigeria’s political and historical journey will endure for generations. Photos:

Katsina, National, News

Buhari’s Body En Route to Hometown for Burial Rites

The motorcade departed from Katsina Airport shortly after the arrival of Buhari’s remains aboard a presidential jet, which touched down around 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was present at the tarmac to receive the body, alongside top government officials. The remains of the late president were flown from London, where he passed away on Sunday at the age of 82 while undergoing treatment at a private clinic. Read Also: Ganduje Mourns Buhari, Describes Him as Symbol of Integrity and Patriotism Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and members of the Buhari family accompanied the body back to Nigeria. The late former leader is to be laid to rest later today at his residence in Daura, in accordance with Islamic burial rites.

Agriculture, Education, Kano, National, News

FCAPT Achieves Major Milestones Under Provost Gwaram’s Leadership

The Federal College of Agricultural Produce Technology (FCAPT), Kano, has recorded significant achievements in academic expansion, infrastructure development, and community-based training initiatives under the leadership of its Provost, Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, who assumed office in September 2020. Established with a mandate to produce skilled manpower in agricultural produce inspection, post-harvest handling, storage, processing, and value addition, FCAPT also undertakes training, extension services, and applied research aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and promoting food security in Nigeria. In an interview with newsmen in Kano, the Provost, Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u, said the college has made remarkable progress toward fulfilling its mandate over the past five years. Related: Provost Gwaram Unveils FCAPT Progress, Seeks Urgent Completion of Bunkure Campus “We are proud of the journey so far. FCAPT is gradually emerging as a center of excellence in agricultural value addition and post-harvest technology,” Dr. Gwaram stated. He noted that under his leadership, the college had secured the accreditation and introduction of new Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes, including Crop Production Technology, Food Science and Technology, Agricultural Business, Statistics, Animal Production Technology, Software and Web Development, Networking and Cloud Computing, Nutrition and Dietetics, and Cooperative Economics and Management. These complement the existing accredited HND programmes in Agricultural Extension and Management, Pest Management Technology, and Computer Science. The college also offers National Diploma (ND) programmes in Agricultural Technology, Horticultural Technology, Animal Health and Production Technology, Computer Science, Statistics, Science Laboratory Technology, and Food Science and Technology, along with certificate courses in Food Storage Technology and Produce Inspection. Read Also: Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Appointed Chancellor of Northwest University, Kano Dr. Gwaram emphasized that these academic improvements have increased student enrolment and enhanced the college’s capacity to produce self-reliant graduates, equipped to meet the manpower needs of the agricultural sector across the country. FCAPT, with its standard campuses located in Barkum (Bunkure Local Government Area), Hotoro (in Kano City), and Dan Hassan (Kura Local Government Area), has graduated hundreds of students who now serve in both public and private agricultural sectors across Nigeria. These campuses form part of the institution’s broad reach in ensuring quality agricultural education and training within Kano State and beyond. He further highlighted key infrastructure upgrades at the institution, including the renovation of classrooms, hostels, the college clinic, and sanitary facilities. A 24-hour water supply system and the installation of a 33KVA transformer funded through internally generated revenue, have significantly improved the learning environment. Solar power systems have also been installed in the Provost’s Office, College Library, and Clinic to ensure uninterrupted administrative and academic operations. On outreach and capacity-building, the Provost stated that the college had partnered with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) to train stakeholders on the value addition of Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP). Another major programme trained 50 women on tomato processing into juice, jam, and paste, with a view to promoting food security and local enterprise. “We’ve trained over 32,000 youth across Nigeria in post-harvest and agricultural value chain skills,” Dr. Gwaram said. “Our goal is to reach 50,000 beneficiaries nationwide before the end of my tenure.” He also disclosed that FCAPT had trained farmers on financial cycle management and enterprise development, and provided two greenhouses for student training. The college’s meteorological station has been renovated and equipped with modern tools for effective data collection and climate monitoring. In partnership with the Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project (KSADP), FCAPT is currently running specialized training in meat and milk hygiene, artificial insemination, and veterinary laboratory operations. In line with its environmental sustainability goals, Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u said the college will soon collaborate with the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) project in the area of tree planting for desertification control and urban beautification. Dr. Gwaram noted that similar projects had previously been carried out by the college in some Kano secondary schools, where students were engaged in planting tree seedlings around school premises and residential areas to promote environmental awareness. Dr. Gwaram added that 13 academic staff have completed their PhDs and 33 others earned their Master’s degrees under his administration. Staff promotions and welfare packages have also been prioritized to boost morale and institutional growth. Significantly, these strides align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes food security and agricultural transformation as core pillars of national development. “As a federal institution, FCAPT is committed to supporting Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda by building the technical capacity needed to drive food security, reduce unemployment, and sustain agro-industrial innovation,” Dr. Gwaram added. The college’s achievements under Dr. Gwaram have been recognized by stakeholders, development partners, and government agencies as a model of effective leadership in Nigeria’s agricultural education sector.

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