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CGC Adeniyi Strengthens Global Partnerships at Customs Diplomatic Reception

CGC Adeniyi Strengthens Global Partnerships at Customs Diplomatic Reception

Ansary Yusuf Emerges YPP House of Representatives Candidate for Tarauni

Ansary Yusuf Emerges YPP House of Representatives Candidate for Tarauni

Northern Youth Assembly Accuses Kwankwaso of Abandoning Core Northern Ideals

Northern Youth Assembly Accuses Kwankwaso of Abandoning Core Northern Ideals

Photos: How Kano Government-Owned Television Station Became a Source of Commercial Firewood

Photos: How Kano Government-Owned Television Station Became a Source of Commercial Firewood

Ododo Hands Over Modern Crime-Fighting Facility to Police in Kogi

Ododo Hands Over Modern Crime-Fighting Facility to Police in Kogi

NNPC Foundation Donates MRI Machine to National Orthopedic Hospital Dala

NNPC Foundation Donates MRI Machine to National Orthopedic Hospital Dala

UNICEF expands digital learning programme to tackle school dropout, youth unemployment

UNICEF expands digital learning programme to tackle school dropout, youth unemployment

Quality is essential for national development, Ganduje declares at ARSO launch

Quality is essential for national development, Ganduje declares at ARSO launch

14.2 Percent: The Electoral Arithmetic That Exposes the Fundamental Fragility of Peter Obi’s 2027 Northern Strategy

14.2 Percent: The Electoral Arithmetic That Exposes the Fundamental Fragility of Peter Obi’s 2027 Northern Strategy

Photos: Garo, Inuwa Waya reaffirm commitment to Kano’s progress

Photos: Garo, Inuwa Waya reaffirm commitment to Kano’s progress

2025

Education, National, News

Professor Haruna Musa to Lead BUK as New VC from August 18

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The Governing Council of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has formally approved the appointment of Professor Haruna Musa as the institution’s 12th Vice-Chancellor. This was disclosed in an official letter signed by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, following the Council’s meeting held on Thursday, July 3, 2025. The letter stated that the appointment, which followed recommendations by the University’s Selection Board, is for a single five-year term effective from August 18, 2025. Read Also: Provost Gwaram Unveils FCAPT Progress, Seeks Urgent Completion of Bunkure Campus “The Governing Council of Bayero University, Kano, exercising its authority under Section 4 of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Amendment Act, 2003… hereby approves your appointment as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano,” the letter reads. A statement by the Director of Public Affairs, BUK, Malam Lamara Garba, said Dr. Gawuna congratulated Professor Musa and wished him a successful and impactful tenure. Academic and Professional Background Born on June 20, 1967, in Dambatta, Kano State, Professor Haruna Musa began his educational journey at Sabuwar Unguwa Primary School (1974–1980) and continued at Government Secondary School, Dambatta (1980–1985). He earned his IJMBE certificate from the College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies, Kano in 1988 and proceeded to obtain a B.Sc. in Chemistry from BUK in 1991. He earned a Master’s in Polymer Chemistry from the same university in 1999 and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Bristol, UK, in 2009. While pursuing his doctorate, he worked part-time with Revolymer Ltd, a UK-based university spin-off company. Professor Musa began his academic career as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry at BUK in 1993. He became a full professor in 2019. Over his career, he has supervised more than 300 undergraduate and over 60 postgraduate research projects. He has published 52 scholarly articles, eight book chapters, and presented more than 40 conference papers across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Research and Innovations Professor Musa has led several landmark research projects. He was the principal investigator for a N36 million National Research Fund grant on rechargeable zinc-air batteries and currently serves as Nigeria’s lead on a joint research venture with North Carolina State University, USA. That project facilitated BUK’s acquisition of advanced Filabot equipment for plastic recycling research. His collaborative efforts extend to institutions in India, Morocco, Senegal, and Saudi Arabia. Leadership and Administrative Roles Professor Musa is currently the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) and chairs key university committees, including the Senate Business Committee and the University Admissions Committee. He has previously served as: Head, Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry (2015–2019) Deputy Director, Centre for Renewable Energy Research (CRER) Deputy Director I, TETFund Centre of Excellence on Renewable Energy and Sustainability Transitions (CREST) He has also represented the university at various levels, including the Senate and Governing Council. National Assignments and Community Service At the national level, Professor Musa has served as: Lead Researcher, TETFund Impact Assessment Committee Member, Kano State STI Policy Technical Committee (2025) NUC accreditation team member for federal, state, and private universities External Examiner/Assessor for postgraduate theses and academic promotions He was Chairperson of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), BUK branch (2020–2024), and founder of the Dambatta Educational Development Initiative (DEDI), a non-profit focused on expanding educational access for the underprivileged. Professional Memberships and Recognitions Professor Musa is a fellow or member of several professional bodies, including: Fellow, Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (FICCON) Fellow, Polymer Institute of Nigeria (FPIN) Fellow, Textile Researchers Association of Nigeria (FTRAN) Fellow, Security Institute (fsi) Member, Chemical Society of Nigeria (MCSN) Member, Society for Peace Studies and Practice (MSPSP) His numerous awards include: Best Graduating Student in Chemistry, BUK (1991) Beam Time Award, GSI Helmholtz Centre, Germany (2008) Award of Research Excellence, PIN & Raw Materials Research Council (2017) Professor Haruna Musa is married with children. He enjoys reading, research, travelling, and football.

National, Sport

1994 AFCON Champion and Super Eagles Legend Peter Rufai Dies at 61

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Former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion, Peter Rufai, has died at the age of 61. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the news in a tribute shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, July 3, 2025. “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” the statement read. Read Also: Barau FC Arrives Asaba for NNL Super Eight, Targets NPFL Promotion Fondly known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria and was a key member of the Super Eagles’ golden generation. He helped the team secure their second AFCON title in Tunisia in 1994 and represented Nigeria at both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. Rufai remains one of Nigeria’s most iconic footballers, remembered for his leadership, agility, and calm presence in goal.

Kano, News

AIG Zone One Kano Pledges Support to PMAN in Fight Against Fake Drugs

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The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone One Headquarters, Kano, AIG Ahmed Garba, has assured the Kano chapter of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) of the police’s commitment to safeguarding the pharmaceutical industry against the circulation of adulterated and substandard drugs. This assurance came during a courtesy visit by PMAN executives, led by their chairman, Mr. Charles Emeka, to the AIG’s office on Wednesday, July 3, 2025. The meeting aimed to introduce the new leadership of the association and foster a stronger working relationship between PMAN and the police. During the discussion, the PMAN team raised concerns over the growing menace of fake and substandard drugs, which pose a threat to public health and undermine the efforts of legitimate manufacturers. They also appealed for increased security support to protect their manufacturing facilities and distribution channels. Read Also: AIG Zone I Receives Gauta Club on Courtesy Visit, Warns Against Unguarded Utterances In response, AIG Ahmed Garba commended the association for its proactive engagement and stressed the importance of regulatory compliance among PMAN members. He pledged the zonal headquarters’ full cooperation in ensuring the safety of pharmaceutical operations in the region. “The fight against counterfeit drugs is a shared responsibility, and the police will work closely with stakeholders like PMAN to protect lives and uphold industry standards,” the AIG stated. The meeting ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing commitment to a stronger partnership in tackling criminal activities in the pharmaceutical sector. Signed: CSP Bashir Muhammad, ANIPR Zonal Police Public Relations Officer Zone One Headquarters, Kano

National, News

Senate Probes SMEDAN, NUC Over Imbalanced Recruitment

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The Senate Committee on Federal Character is investigating the Small and Medium Enterprisese Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the National Universities Commission (NUC) over alleged lopsided recruitment practices. At a hearing chaired by Senator Allwell Onyesoh, SMEDAN was criticized for regional imbalances in its staff structure with states like Kogi and Katsina significantly overrepresented, while others like Ebonyi and Kebbi had very few staff. SMEDAN’s Director-General, Mr. Charles Odii, acknowledged the imbalance and pledged to correct it in future exercises. Read Also: FG, Kano State, Rebuild and Launch Kano Digital Park The NUC, which hasn’t recruited since 2014, was also faulted for an uneven staff distribution. Executive Secretary, Professor Abdulahi Yusufu Ribadu, assured the Senate that future recruitment would reflect fairness and inclusivity. Both agencies were urged to present plans to address the disparities, as the Senate emphasized transparency and constitutional compliance in public sector employment.

National, News

FG Approves 37 New Oil Evacuation Routes to Tackle Theft, Boost Production — NUPRC

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The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced that the federal government has approved 37 new crude oil evacuation routes as part of ongoing efforts to curb oil theft and enhance production capacity. Speaking at the 2025 Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week in Abuja, the Chief Executive Officer of NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, said securing oil infrastructure remains a top priority for the commission. According to him, the newly designated routes, alongside improved collaboration with security agencies, are contributing to a reduction in oil theft and enhancing transparency across the upstream sector. “Our domestic crude supply obligation is ensuring feedstock for local refineries, strengthening domestic supply chains, and boosting economic resilience,” Komolafe stated. Read Also: NNPC Alleges Sabotage Plot to Derail Reform Agenda He also highlighted the impact of the HostComply platform, which he said has improved transparency and delivered measurable benefits to oil-producing communities fostering peace and social license to operate. Komolafe added that the commission’s digitisation efforts are transforming regulatory oversight by improving speed, efficiency, and investor clarity. He noted that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria’s energy sector has attracted over $16 billion in investment commitments within the past two years, thanks to bold reforms and a stable policy direction. The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, he said, laid the foundation for these reforms, while the 2024 Executive Orders EO 40 on fiscal incentives, EO 41 on local content, and EO 42 on cost efficiency have accelerated investor confidence. “These reforms have repositioned the sector to ensure greater energy security, sustainability, and economic resilience,” he said. Read Also: Nigeria Pushes Blue Economy Agenda with Seabed Mapping, Hydrography Initiatives On the global stage, Komolafe stressed the need for consistent upstream investment to meet demand, citing projections that oil and gas will remain responsible for over 50% of global energy needs until at least 2050. “To meet that demand, the world will require over $640 billion in upstream investments annually through 2030 amounting to more than $4 trillion. Failure to meet this demand will threaten global stability. Nigeria and Africa cannot afford to ignore this,” he warned. Nigeria Eyes 2.5 Million Barrels per Day through Dormant Field Revival The NUPRC chief also spoke on the commission’s ongoing efforts to scale up production through the One Million Barrels Initiative, launched in 2024. The initiative targets increased output by reviving dormant fields, expediting regulatory approvals, and improving upstream efficiency. “Our goal is to raise daily crude oil production from 1.46 million barrels per day (bpd) to 2.5 million bpd by 2026. We have already reached 1.7 million bpd, and the momentum is strong,” Komolafe revealed. He concluded by reaffirming the commission’s commitment to integrating climate responsibility into its operations, in line with Nigeria’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, even as oil and gas continue to anchor the country’s economy.  

Kano, News

Usman Alhaji Hits Back at Gaya Emirate over Title Revocation

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Former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji, has dismissed his removal as Wazirin Gaya by the Gaya Emirate Council as “an action in futility” and lacking legal merit. His response comes days after the Council, backed by the Kano State Government, announced the revocation of his traditional title, following his public criticism of the government over the alleged mismanagement of a $600 million foreign loan. In a statement issued by Ibrahim Dan’azumi Gwarzo on behalf of the APC Patriotic Volunteers, a group founded by Usman Alhaji the former SSG described the withdrawal as politically driven and in violation of due process. He argued that proper procedures were not followed, including failure to issue a query or provide him a chance to defend himself, as required under emirate law. The statement also questioned why Alhaji was singled out, despite other titleholders also lacking approval for reinstatement following the emirates’ restructuring. Read Also: After Ganduje’s Resignation, APC Faces Rising Opposition Momentum Citing the law that dissolved the additional emirates of Gaya, Rano, Karaye, and Bichi during the last administration, the group argued that Alhaji’s title had already lapsed when Gaya was downgraded from first-class status. It added that although the emir requested the return of some former titleholders after the restoration of the emirates, the government allegedly denied Alhaji’s reinstatement for political reasons. Despite the withdrawal, the group asserted that Alhaji would continue to be addressed as Wazirin Gaya in recognition of his past service. “No amount of political persecution can erase the legacy of Alhaji Usman Alhaji,” the statement said, adding that they await the final verdict from the Supreme Court on the emirates’ legal status.  

National, Politics

After Ganduje’s Resignation, APC Faces Rising Opposition Momentum

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As Nigeria draws closer to the 2027 general elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing mounting internal and external challenges that could significantly impact its hold on power. The recent resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, immediate past National Chairman of the party and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has deepened concerns within the party about its unity and stability. Although Ganduje cited health-related reasons for his exit, the timing of his resignation could not be more significant. The APC, now grappling with emerging internal rifts and rising opposition strength, is in dire need of the kind of steady, experienced leadership that Ganduje offered. Known for his calm disposition, political maturity, and ability to broker peace among party factions, Ganduje’s tenure was marked by high-profile defections into the party, especially from northern Nigeria, where he helped solidify APC’s dominance. Ironically, just days before Ganduje stepped down, the APC began to experience a wave of defections, this time in reverse. Several influential figures who were once key architects of the APC’s national growth have now defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a significant political realignment ahead of the next elections. Related: Ganduje Bows Out with Legacy of Political Impact, Party Growth, and National Reach Among those who left the APC are former Ministers Rotimi Amaechi (Transportation), Abubakar Malami (Justice), Hadi Sirika (Aviation), Rauf Aregbesola (Interior), prominent businessman and ex-TETFUND Chair Kashim Imam, and Chief John Odigie Oyegun, a former National Chairman of the APC. Their mass exit from the ruling party comes on the heels of growing dissatisfaction with the Tinubu administration, citing worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and what they described as a failure of internal democracy within the APC. These high-profile figures have joined forces with opposition elements under the umbrella of the ADC, which they have now adopted as their official political platform for the 2027 elections. To further strengthen the coalition’s credibility and leadership structure, former Senate President David Mark was named Interim National Chairman of the ADC. Widely respected for his statesmanship and legislative record, Mark’s emergence is expected to rally support particularly from the North Central region, while adding momentum to what is now seen as a viable third force. For many political observers, Ganduje’s resignation and the subsequent defections present a turning point for the APC. While he was at the helm, the party experienced strategic growth and consolidation. Now, in his absence, the APC is beginning to lose key loyalists. Ganduje’s departure has not only created a leadership vacuum but also removed one of the party’s most experienced and stabilizing figures. Read Also: Ex-Senate President David Mark Heads ADC The challenge before the APC is no longer just political but existential. The party must now confront its internal divisions, reconnect with its disillusioned base, and offer a renewed vision that can inspire public trust. With just two years left before the 2027 elections, time is no longer on the APC’s side. Many are now asking, Who will step up to lead the APC with the depth of experience and unifying ability Ganduje brought to the table? What lies ahead for the APC depends on how swiftly and sincerely it can reconcile internal grievances, address issues of governance and inclusivity, and present a united front in the face of rising opposition. Without meaningful reform, the party may find itself losing the strong grip it once had on Nigeria’s political landscape. One thing, however, is certain, 2027 will not be business as usual. Umar is a digital journalist and writes from Kano.

Kano, Sport

Barau FC Arrives Asaba for NNL Super Eight, Targets NPFL Promotion

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Barau Football Club of Kano has arrived in Asaba, Delta State, ahead of the 2025 Nigerian National League (NNL) Super Eight playoffs, with strong ambitions to secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the 2025/26 season. The team, popularly known as the Maliya Boys, touched down in Asaba on Wednesday with a 32-man squad and over 15 club officials and coaching staff. In a statement issued by the club’s Media Officer, Ahmad Hamisu Gwale, Barau FC reaffirmed its commitment to giving a top-class performance at the tournament and fighting for a spot among Nigeria’s elite football clubs. Related: Senator Barau Boosts Barau FC with N2 Million Donation Ahead of NNL Super Eight Playoffs “We are in Asaba with a clear focus to give our best and secure promotion to the NPFL,” the statement read. The NNL has announced that the Super Eight tournament will hold from July 5 to 12, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba. Eight clubs have qualified for the high-stakes competition: Warri Wolves, Osun United, Crown FC, Kun Khalifa FC of Owerri, Wikki Tourists of Bauchi, Yobe Desert Stars, Doma United of Gombe, and Barau FC of Kano. The tournament will determine the four clubs that will earn promotion to the NPFL for the 2025/26 season, and also decide the overall champion of the 2024/25 NNL campaign.

Kano, News

FG, Kano State, Rebuild and Launch Kano Digital Park

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The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has commissioned the restored Digital Industrial Park (DIP) in Kano State, describing it as a landmark initiative aimed at fostering grassroots digital transformation in Northern Nigeria. Originally completed in 2024, the multi-billion-naira facility was vandalized during the August 1, 2024, nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest. The destruction delayed its planned commissioning. However, through a robust public-private collaboration, particularly with IHS Towers, the facility has been fully rehabilitated and is now operational. Read Also: Nigerian Navy Launches High-Tech Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security This was contained in a statement signed by Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Honourable Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Kano State, and made available to newsmen. Representing the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, at the commissioning ceremony, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, expressed the state government’s appreciation for the Federal Government’s commitment to technological development in Kano. “The Minister’s inclusive strategy of engaging private sector players like IHS Towers demonstrates that Nigeria’s digital future is in promising hands,” the Deputy Governor said. “This park is not just a facility; it is a beacon of opportunity and hope for our youth.” Also speaking at the event, Mr. Kazeem Oladepo, who represented IHS Towers, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Kano in the area of ICT infrastructure and digital innovation. “We are prepared to deepen our collaboration with the state government to ensure inclusive digital growth and transformation,” he stated. In his remarks, Dr. Tijani noted that Kano State recorded the highest number of applicants for the Federal Government’s flagship 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, a sign of the region’s readiness to embrace innovation. “Kano is ripe for digital transformation. The energy, enthusiasm, and talent of its youth are unmatched,” he said. “This facility will serve as a hub for digital learning, job creation, and innovation.” As a gesture of appreciation, the Deputy Governor presented the Minister with traditional regalia, a sword and cap and conferred on him the honorary title of Sarkin Yakin Digitalization (Grand Commander of Digitalization) in recognition of his leadership and support for digital advancement. The event was attended by top government officials, traditional leaders, private sector stakeholders, and media professionals. It underscored the growing synergy between government and private actors in unlocking Nigeria’s digital economy and empowering its youth. Photos:

Kano, News, Politics

Kano PDP Chieftain Ibrahim Ali Amin (Little) Resigns, Joins Coalition Movement

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A prominent member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Kano State, Ibrahim Ali Amin, popularly known as Little, has resigned from the party, citing ongoing leadership crises and erosion of internal democracy. In a resignation letter addressed to the Tudun Wada Ward Chairman in Nassarawa Local Government Area, Amin stated that his decision is effective immediately, expressing disappointment over the party’s internal instability and failure to uphold its founding principles. Read Also: Ganduje Bows Out with Legacy of Political Impact, Party Growth, and National Reach “The unending leadership tussles have destroyed the internal cohesion needed for progress,” he said. He also lamented the lack of respect for internal democracy, saying the party no longer reflects its original ideals. Amin revealed he is now aligning with a new coalition movement focused on rebuilding Nigeria and restoring democratic values. “I have conscientiously decided to join a coalition movement committed to saving our country and promoting genuine democratic governance,” he reiterated.

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