The Historica Nigeria

2025

Sport

Madueke’s future uncertain as Arsenal show interest

Chelsea winger Noni Madueke could be on his way to Arsenal in a surprise transfer move this summer, according to a report by The UK Telegraph. The 23-year-old England international is said to be among the wide attacking options currently being considered by the Gunners, as they look to strengthen their forward line ahead of the new season. Madueke, who joined Chelsea from Dutch side PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, has shown glimpses of his talent but has struggled with consistency and fitness. Injuries and limited starts have hampered his ability to cement a regular role in the first team. Read Also: Premier League Disciplines Man City with £1m fine for Delays Under new head coach Enzo Maresca, Madueke has recently been deployed as a left winger, although questions remain over his long-term role in the squad. Reports suggest he may not be assured significant game time next season. Chelsea’s pursuit of reinforcements in wide areas specifically Jamie Bynoe-Gittens from Borussia Dortmund and Mohammed Kudus from West Ham has further fueled speculation that Madueke could be allowed to leave. A move to Arsenal would be a surprising cross-London switch, and while talks are still at an exploratory stage, the Gunners are monitoring his situation closely.

Sport

Premier League Disciplines Man City with £1m fine for Delays

Manchester City have been fined £1 million by the Premier League after accepting responsibility for multiple breaches of league regulations during the 2024–25 season. The reigning champions endured a disappointing campaign, finishing third and ending their run of four consecutive Premier League titles. Their struggles have now been compounded by a hefty financial penalty for repeated violations of the league’s match punctuality rules. According to Premier League Rule L.33, clubs are required to begin matches and restart the second half on time. Failure to do so results in fines, which increase with each breach. Read Also: D’banj Excludes Wizkid from Top 3 Nigerian Artistes, Praises Rema, Davido, Burna Boy Manchester City were found to have violated this rule on nine occasions. While their initial fine stood at £40,000, repeated offenses led to escalating penalties, with the ninth infraction alone attracting a £190,000 fine. The cumulative total of the fines has now reached £1 million. City, currently participating in the Club World Cup, have accepted the sanctions and reached a formal agreement with the Premier League on the matter. The breach adds to a turbulent season for Pep Guardiola’s men, who now face scrutiny both on and off the pitch.

Kaduna, National, News, Politics

Tinubu Acknowledges Oversight, Confers CFR on Col. Dangiwa Umar for Defending June 12

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) on retired Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar, a respected advocate of democracy and one of the most vocal defenders of the June 12 election struggle. The announcement was made on Thursday during the commissioning of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses in Kaduna, where President Tinubu publicly acknowledged what he described as a regrettable oversight in the initial Democracy Day honours list released on June 12. Colonel Umar, often described as a “Soldier of Democracy” for his unwavering stand during Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement of the 1990s, was notably absent from this year’s list of honourees, an omission that sparked concern and criticism from various quarters, given his historic role in defending democratic ideals under military rule. Read Also: President Tinubu commissions strategic projects during official visit to Kaduna In his remarks, President Tinubu offered a heartfelt apology and formally corrected the record. “The omission of Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar from the Democracy Day honours list was not intentional. It was a regrettable oversight, and I sincerely apologise. Today, I correct that by announcing the conferment of the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) on him,” the President stated. Colonel Umar, a former military governor of Kaduna State, gained national prominence for being one of the few military officers who openly condemned the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll. His bold opposition to the military establishment earned him respect across political and civil society circles, securing his place as a moral voice in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. President Tinubu hailed Umar’s courage, integrity, and enduring commitment to justice and good governance, saying: “Colonel Umar’s place in the story of Nigeria’s democracy is not just deserved but essential. His fearless advocacy for truth and justice helped shape the path to our current democratic dispensation.” The conferment of the CFR on Colonel Umar is seen as a symbolic gesture aimed at reaffirming the nation’s appreciation for those who stood firm in defence of democracy during one of the country’s most turbulent periods.

Kaduna, National, News

President Tinubu commissions strategic projects during official visit to Kaduna

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday undertook a one-day working visit to Kaduna State, where he commissioned a series of landmark projects aimed at strengthening infrastructure and improving social services. Upon his arrival at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Kaduna, the President was received by Governor Uba Sani, alongside senior government officials, traditional leaders, and other dignitaries. President Tinubu’s visit focused on project inaugurations in Rigachikun, Igabi Local Government Area, where he commissioned newly constructed road networks, upgraded healthcare centres, and modern educational facilities. The projects are part of Kaduna State’s broader developmental strategy to drive rural transformation and expand access to critical public services. Read Also: Photos: Tinubu Inaugurates Greater Abuja Water Project to Expand Clean Water Access Speaking during the inauguration, President Tinubu commended the Kaduna State Government for its commitment to grassroots development and urged continued collaboration across all tiers of government to deliver tangible progress to Nigerians. The President’s presence was marked by heightened security, with joint personnel from the Nigerian Police, Civil Defence Corps, and the military deployed across key areas to ensure a peaceful and orderly visit. President Tinubu’s visit underscores his administration’s focus on supporting subnational efforts aimed at delivering inclusive growth and improving the quality of life for citizens.  

Abuja, Kano, Profile

Things to Know About Dr. Asiya Ganduje, Director of Community and Rural Development NWDC – By Umar Idris Shuaibu

Dr. Asiya Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, a respected financial expert with nearly two decades of leadership experience, continues to distinguish herself in Nigeria’s public service and finance sectors. In a recent development, she was nominated as the Director of Community and Rural Development, a role that reflects her growing influence in national development policy and grassroots transformation. A Certified Management Consultant and Fellow of several prestigious professional bodies, Dr. Asiya has built an impressive career across the oil and gas industry, public finance, and corporate advisory. Her expertise spans auditing, financial strategy, strategic planning, policy formulation, and Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) management. She holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the Paris School of Business, an MBA from Lagos Business School, and a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from the University of Maiduguri. This blend of academic and professional accomplishments has positioned her as a trusted voice in both corporate and public leadership spaces. Related: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future As the newly appointed Director of Community and Rural Development Northwest Development Commission (NWDC), Dr. Asiya is expected to channel her rich experience and strategic insight into delivering impactful policies and programs that promote inclusive growth, empower rural communities, and align with Nigeria’s broader development agenda. Read Also: Dr. Ganduje Undertakes Hajj Amid Rising Political Influence Her nomination into this critical position is seen as a significant step in strengthening the delivery of rural development initiatives across the country, building on her reputation for excellence, integrity, and service. shuaibuumaridris@gmail.com

Kano, News

Usman Alhaji loses Wazirin Gaya title over undisclosed reasons

The Gaya Emirate Council in Kano State has formally withdrawn the traditional title of Wazirin Gaya from Alhaji Usman Alhaji, citing unavoidable circumstances.The decision, which takes immediate effect, was conveyed in an official letter addressed to the former titleholder. According to a statement signed by Munzali Muhammad Hausawa, the Gaya Zonal Information Officer, and made available to journalists in Kano on Wednesday, the move reflects the Council’s adherence to tradition and its commitment to upholding the integrity of the emirate’s revered titles. Read Also: Prof. Musa Tukur Yakasai Appointed Sarkin Kudun Gaya by Emir of Gaya Speaking on the matter, the Secretary to the Gaya Emirate Council, Alhaji Bello Halilu, acknowledged and appreciated the contributions of Alhaji Usman Alhaji during his tenure as Wazirin Gaya. He noted that the Council remains grateful for his service to the traditional institution and for his efforts in promoting the cultural heritage of the emirate. The statement further emphasized that the decision underscores the Emirate’s resolve to preserve the sanctity, dignity, and value of traditional titles in accordance with long-standing customs. The public is hereby informed of this development and urged to take note accordingly.

Benue, National, News

Tinubu orders security chiefs to hunt down perpetrators of Benue killings

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern directive to Nigeria’s service chiefs and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately go after those responsible for the recent spate of killings in Benue State. The President gave the order on Wednesday during his visit to Makurdi, the Benue State capital, where he met with stakeholders following the renewed wave of violence in the North-Central region. Speaking during the meeting at the Government House, Tinubu expressed strong dissatisfaction over the lack of arrests and called for urgent action. Read Also: Presidential Aide Abdul’aziz Gives Back to Alma Mater with Cash and Food Donations “Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals,” the President said, addressing the Inspector General directly. He also tasked the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and other top military officials to intensify efforts in gathering actionable intelligence and neutralising the threat. “Christopher, you have given much. I watch your comments you can’t be tired of staying in the bush,” Tinubu added. “Oloyede and the Air Marshal, we thank all of you, but we need to keep our ears to the ground. Let’s get those criminals, let’s get them out.” The President emphasized the need for better coordination among security agencies, urging intelligence units to “retool their information channels” to ensure such attacks do not reoccur. Read Also: 2027: North-Central APC Forum Condemns Gombe Disruption, Backs Ganduje’s Leadership Last week, gunmen suspected to be herders attacked Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area of the state, killing dozens and displacing thousands. The assault sparked nationwide outrage and prompted protests across parts of the state. The tragedy drew strong condemnation from political leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s presidential candidate Peter Obi, who both called on the federal government to act decisively to end the bloodshed. President Tinubu’s visit and tough rhetoric signal a heightened federal response, but many residents and civil society actors remain cautious, urging the government to follow words with visible results on the ground.

Education, Kano, News

Presidential Aide Abdul’aziz Gives Back to Alma Mater with Cash and Food Donations

As part of his commitment to promoting academic excellence and encouraging dedication in the education sector, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Print Media, has donated N600,000 to students of Muktar Adnan Day Science College, Kano, who scored 300 and above in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). A proud alumnus of the college, Abdulaziz also donated four bags of rice to the teaching and non-teaching staff of the school, in appreciation of their tireless efforts in nurturing academic excellence. The donation was delivered through Engineer Auwalu on his behalf. The Principal of the college, Malam Abba Tukur Ibrahim, officially received the donation and expressed profound gratitude for the generous gesture. He described the support as not only timely but also highly motivational, especially coming from a distinguished old student who continues to excel in national service. Read Also: Kano Science Schools Board Commends Muktar Adnan Day Science College Principal for Outstanding Leadership “This act of kindness by Malam Abdulaziz is a strong message to both our students and staff that hard work does not go unnoticed. It is also an inspiring example of what it means to give back to the institutions that nurtured us,” said the principal. The N600,000 cash donation is intended for students who achieved 300 marks and above in the 2025 UTME, placing them in the top percentile of candidates nationwide. It is expected to aid them as they prepare for admission into tertiary institutions. Speaking during the presentation, Engineer Auwalu emphasized that the initiative reflects Malam Abdulaziz’s deep passion for education and his enduring connection to his alma mater. He noted that the gesture also demonstrates the importance of encouraging academic excellence and supporting the welfare of educators. In addition to the student support, the donation of food items to the school staff was warmly received, with many describing it as a thoughtful acknowledgment of their sacrifices and role in shaping young minds.

Business, National

CAC Adjusts Service Fees, Effective August 1

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has announced a revision of its service fees, set to take effect from August 1, 2025. The move, according to the Commission, is aimed at aligning its operations with prevailing economic realities while improving the quality and efficiency of its regulatory services. In a public notice issued by the Commission, the CAC said the new charges reflect extensive consultations with key stakeholders and are part of broader reforms to enhance service delivery, maintain technological infrastructure, and ensure operational sustainability. The Commission assured the public that the revised fees remain modest and competitive when compared to similar regulatory bodies both within and outside Nigeria. It explained that the changes apply to a range of corporate services, including company name reservation, re-listing of struck-off entities, voluntary striking-off, issuance of certified true copies, and extension of time for holding annual general meetings, among others. Read Also: Tinubu arrives Makurdi to address Benue security crisis The review also affects services provided to business names, incorporated trustees, limited liability partnerships, and limited partnerships. The CAC emphasized that the adjustments would not affect the standard N1,000 fee for company name reservation, while applications involving restricted names would remain at N5,000. The Commission further explained that the fee realignment is critical to sustaining digital transformation efforts and improving user experience across its electronic service platforms. “The Commission is committed to transparency, accountability, and the ease of doing business in Nigeria,” the statement read. It also advised business owners, legal practitioners, and the general public to consult its official website for the full breakdown of the updated charges. The CAC’s announcement comes at a time when government agencies are under increasing pressure to balance affordability with efficiency, particularly in sectors crucial to economic development and entrepreneurship.  

Environment, Kano, News

Kano Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Land Restoration, Climate Action on Desertification and Drought Day

As part of activities marking the 2025 Desertification and Drought Day, the Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating desert encroachment and promoting climate resilience through aggressive afforestation and land restoration programs. The State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, gave the assurance in a personally signed statement issued on Tuesday. Dr. Hashim made the remarks during a working visit to ‘Yan Bawa in Makoda Local Government Area, home to one of Nigeria’s largest shelterbelts. Read Also: Kano Environment Ministry Begins Early Desilting, Moves Toward Waste Management Reforms He revealed that more than 75,000 seedlings are currently being nurtured in the area under the government’s 2025 Five Million Tree Planting Campaign, an ambitious environmental initiative aimed at reversing land degradation and enhancing community resilience. “This effort aligns with the vision of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to restore degraded lands, empower rural communities, and build long-term climate resilience across the state,” the statement read. Highlighting the urgent threat posed by desertification and drought to lives and livelihoods, the Commissioner emphasized that expanding shelterbelts is a key strategy in safeguarding Kano’s ecological and agricultural future. “Every tree we are planting today is a step toward securing our future economically, ecologically, and socially,” Dr. Hashim stated. He urged the public to actively support the afforestation drive, noting that land restoration holds the key to improved biodiversity, food security, and sustainable rural development.

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