The Historica Nigeria

2025

Lagos, News

FAAN Confirms Saturday Traffic Restriction Around Lagos Airport

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced that there will be a partial restriction of movement around the access road connecting Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2) and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos on Saturday. In a travel advisory issued on Friday, FAAN explained that the restriction will commence early in the morning, with security personnel deployed along the affected routes to manage traffic and ensure public safety. The authority emphasized that flight operations at both terminals will continue as scheduled, assuring passengers that the exercise will not disrupt airport activities. Read Also: Trump’s Adviser Dismisses Allegations of Christian Genocide in Nigeria “During this period, security personnel would be deployed along access roads to direct traffic and ensure safety. This does not in any way disrupt airport operations, as scheduled flights would operate normally. The access roads would be completely opened immediately after the exercise,” the agency stated. FAAN also advised passengers and other airport users to plan their movement ahead of time, as minor traffic delays could occur within the airport vicinity. The agency expressed regret over any inconvenience the temporary restriction may cause and appealed for the public’s understanding and cooperation.

Feature, Kano, Politics

Ganduje’s Achievements Still Define Kano, Despite NNPP’s Attempts to Erase Them

In the unfolding political landscape of Kano State, one truth stands undeniable as Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s legacy continues to define the direction, pace, and expectations of governance. Nearly two years into office, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP)-led administration under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has struggled to escape the shadow of the former governor, whose developmental strides remain deeply etched in the state’s progress story. Rather than consolidating on the solid foundations laid during Ganduje’s two-term tenure, the NNPP government has seemingly chosen a path of political vengeance — focusing more on dismantling his achievements than building new ones. From endless legal distractions to administrative reversals, the state government appears more interested in Ganduje’s past than in its own performance record. Observers argue that the NNPP government came into power without a clear blueprint for governance. Since assuming office, there has been little evidence of coherent planning, continuity, or measurable progress in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and urban renewal. Instead, political theatrics and intra-party crises have dominated the government’s first years, stalling meaningful development and eroding public confidence. Related: Even Out of Office, Ganduje Remains the Soul of APC — Party Loyalist By contrast, during his eight-year tenure, Dr. Ganduje demonstrated a pragmatic and inclusive approach to governance. He not only transformed Kano metropolis into a rapidly growing mega city through massive road networks, flyovers, and urban renewal projects, but also extended infrastructural development to rural areas — ensuring that communities in Rano, Karaye, Gaya, and Bichi Emirates experienced tangible growth and government presence. The creation of the four new emirates remains one of Ganduje’s most people-centered reforms, bringing governance and traditional leadership closer to grassroots communities. The move was widely celebrated for promoting inclusion, cultural revival, and administrative efficiency — a decision that many Kano residents still view as a bold and visionary step. Critics now point out that Governor Yusuf’s administration has failed to match Ganduje’s foresight and administrative discipline. While the NNPP government blames its slow progress on alleged mismanagement by the previous administration, the realities on the ground suggest a lack of strategic focus and leadership depth. Read Also: Northwest University Kano Appoints Professor Aisha Garba Habib as Acting Vice Chancellor Kano’s development narrative, therefore, still bears Ganduje’s imprint — from urban transformation projects and economic empowerment programs to the state’s elevated status as a major investment destination in northern Nigeria. His emphasis on education, healthcare, and rural development has left footprints too visible to erase. In the end, even as the NNPP administration seeks to rewrite history, Ganduje’s achievements continue to speak louder than the propaganda against him. His era remains the benchmark of modern governance in Kano — one defined by planning, execution, and tangible results.

International, National, News

Trump’s Adviser Dismisses Allegations of Christian Genocide in Nigeria

Senior Adviser to former US President Donald Trump on Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos, has dismissed allegations of a Christian genocide in Nigeria, describing them as misleading and unfounded. Boulos made the remarks in Abuja on Friday during a visit to President Bola Tinubu at the State House. His comments come amid growing calls from some US lawmakers urging the White House to designate Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” (CPC) over alleged persecution of Christians. Addressing journalists after the meeting, Boulos said terrorism in Nigeria affects all groups regardless of religion or ethnicity. Read Also: A Quiet War on Our Soil: How Aid, Chemicals, and Banditry Are Strangling Northern Nigeria’s Ginger Heartland “Those who know the terrain well know that terrorism has no colour, no religion, and no tribe,” he said. “People of all religions and tribes are dying as a result of terrorist acts. It is very unfortunate.” He added that extremist groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS have killed more Muslims than Christians, stressing that victims of terrorism come from diverse backgrounds. “This is not specifically targeted at one group or the other. However, any loss of life is one too many, and we should work together in partnership to put an end to this,” Boulos said. The US envoy acknowledged that Nigeria’s Middle Belt region has experienced deadly clashes between farmers and herders, with many victims being Christians, but noted that it would be inaccurate to describe the situation as religious genocide. “While the clashes are regrettable, they are not acts targeted at any specific religious group,” he stated. Boulos commended Nigeria’s diverse composition, describing the country as a “melting pot” of ethnic and religious identities with an almost even split between Muslims and Christians. “This has never been a serious religious issue and should not be,” he added. He also lauded recent efforts by the Tinubu administration to address insecurity, saying the United States welcomed the steps taken so far and would continue to collaborate with Nigeria in promoting peace and stability.

Education, Gombe, News

Gombe Government Disburses ₦726 Million Scholarships to 12,101 Female Students

The Gombe State Government has launched the disbursement of ₦726 million in scholarships to 12,101 female students across junior and senior secondary schools in the state, under the 2024/2025 academic session. The initiative, implemented through the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) — a World Bank–assisted project — aims to boost girls’ access to education, improve learning conditions, and enhance school infrastructure across Gombe State. Speaking during the flag-off ceremony on Friday, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, described the initiative as a milestone in Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to inclusive and quality education. Read Also: Gombe to Partner with Chinese Firm on Teacher Exchange, Vocational Training “Experience has shown that when you care for the girl child, you are also caring for the family, the community, and the nation,” Jatau stated. “This investment in our girls is an investment in the future of Gombe State.” According to him, the state government also disbursed School Improvement Grants (SIG) to 537 public secondary schools across the 11 local government areas to improve infrastructure, safety, and learning standards. The grants were categorized based on school population, with each school receiving between ₦23.1 million and ₦92.4 million. Dr. Jatau commended the World Bank, the AGILE State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU), and the Ministry of Education for their efforts in ensuring the success of the project. He urged School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs) to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper maintenance of facilities. In her remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Aishatu Umar Maigari, described the programme as a landmark in Governor Yahaya’s educational reforms. She said the initiative reflects the government’s vision of inclusion, equity, and sustainability in the education sector. “Through Your Excellency’s leadership, Gombe has domesticated and successfully implemented the AGILE project to reach thousands of girls while revitalising community participation in school governance,” Maigari said. She also congratulated the scholarship beneficiaries, urging them to remain focused and make the most of the opportunity. The AGILE Project Coordinator, Dr. Amina Haruna Abdul, explained that the scholarship programme was designed to remove financial barriers that prevent girls from completing their secondary education. She said each beneficiary would receive ₦50,000 per academic session, starting with ₦40,000 for school materials and uniforms, and subsequent payments of ₦10,000 for other learning expenses. “This financial support may not cover all costs, but it will significantly ease the burden on parents who are eager to educate their daughters despite economic hardship,” Dr. Abdul stated. According to her, the scheme covers all 11 local government areas, with the first batch of beneficiaries already validated and paid, while the second batch awaits confirmation. The AGILE project, she added, is not only a response to economic hardship but also a long-term strategy to increase school enrollment, improve retention rates, and ensure more girls complete secondary education in Gombe State.

Kano, News

Kano APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas Weds Safiya in a Private Ceremony

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, has tied the knot with Safiya Tofa in a quiet wedding ceremony that took place earlier this week. Report says that the wedding fatiha was conducted discreetly and attended by a small circle of family members and close associates, with no official public announcement made beforehand. PSC Appoints DIG, Elevates Kankarofi to CP, 481 Other Senior Officers The private ceremony, observers say, reflects the Chairman’s preference for modest celebrations despite his political prominence in Kano State.

Kano, News

TISNI, MAAUN Empower Nigerian Youths Through Innovation Challenge

The Tech Innovation and Solution Network Initiative (TISNI), in partnership with Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), has organized a student innovation competition designed to promote creativity, problem-solving, and technological advancement among Nigerian youths. Held at the university campus, the event attracted young innovators from various disciplines who showcased cutting-edge projects addressing real-world challenges. The competition was part of a broader initiative to inspire and nurture innovation-driven solutions for sustainable development. In his remarks, the Founder and President of MAAUN, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, commended the participants for their creativity and resilience, describing their projects as “a reflection of the limitless potential of Nigerian youth.” He reaffirmed MAAUN’s commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical learning to prepare students for global competitiveness. Read Also: PSC Appoints DIG, Elevates Kankarofi to CP, 481 Other Senior Officers Professor Gwarzo also announced additional cash donations to support the winners, beyond the official prizes awarded by TISNI. The first-place winner received ₦500,000 and an extra ₦1 million donation; the second-place winner received ₦300,000 plus ₦500,000; the third-place winner got ₦150,000 plus ₦300,000; while the fourth-place winner received ₦50,000 and an additional ₦200,000. Representing the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Bauran Kano, Alhaji Abbas Dalhatu, reaffirmed the emirate’s support for initiatives that empower young people. He emphasized that such programmes were vital to promoting self-reliance, economic inclusion, and national progress. One of the conveners, Farouk Alkali, encouraged Nigerian youths to embrace technology, innovation, and skill acquisition as tools for self-development and nation-building. He stressed that initiatives like TISNI and MAAUN’s collaboration were essential to equipping the next generation with practical and entrepreneurial skills. The competition concluded with commendations from participants, stakeholders, and invited guests, who lauded the TISNI–MAAUN partnership as a model for youth empowerment and innovation-led growth in Nigeria.

Kano, National, News

PSC Appoints DIG, Elevates Kankarofi to CP, 481 Other Senior Officers

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the appointment of Dankwara Mohammed as Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) to represent the North East geopolitical zone. In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the Head of Press and Public Relations of the PSC, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, said Mohammed was promoted from his previous rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) to replace Mr. Sahabu Yahaya, who had since retired from service. The commission also approved the promotion of Mr. Abibo Reuben from the rank of Commissioner of Police (CP) to Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG). Read Also: FCTA Elevates 49 Deputy Directors After First-Ever CBT Promotion Exam Similarly, 11 Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) were promoted to the rank of CP. They include Naziru Kankarofi, Nendel Gomwalk, Tijani Fatai, Wilson Akpan, Morkwap Dongshal, Abdullateef Yusuf, Cletus Nwadiogbu, Ahmed Bello, Abdulraheem Nurudeen, Patrick Daaor, and Umar Hadejia. In addition, 15 Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) were elevated to the rank of DCP. The new DCPs are David Ojo, Umaru Bichi, Bala Jarumai, Makanjuola Abiodun, Shafii Abdulkarim, Mohammed Ajose, Mukter Bello, Mada Adamu, Omololu Vaughan, Linus Ogbodo, Emmanuel Ogbuanya, Tijani Gotom, Shehu Ibrahim, Dr. Onwuegbuzie Awele, and Hamza Ali. Furthermore, 44 Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) were promoted to ACP, while 412 Superintendents of Police (SPs) were elevated to CSP. The decisions were part of the highlights of the 2nd plenary meeting of the commission, presided over by its chairman, Mr. Hashimu Argungu. Mr. Ani said the PSC Chairman congratulated all the newly promoted officers and urged them to rededicate themselves to diligent and selfless service to the nation.

National, News

Senate Clears Prof. Joash Amupitan for INEC Top Job After Three-Hour Screening

The Senate has confirmed Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His confirmation followed a rigorous three-hour screening session at the Senate Chamber on Thursday, where lawmakers questioned the nominee extensively on electoral integrity, logistics, and legal independence. After the screening, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, called for a voice vote, and the lawmakers unanimously approved Amupitan’s appointment without opposition. Akpabio urged the new INEC boss to ensure that “votes will count” under his leadership. Read Also: Council of State Approves Prof. Joash Amupitan as New INEC Chairman While responding to questions, Amupitan clarified that he was never a legal counsel to the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 presidential election petition proceedings, from the tribunal to the Supreme Court. He added that all case records were publicly available for verification. He assured the lawmakers that, if confirmed, his administration would prioritize credible elections where “losers will congratulate winners,” emphasizing transparency, logistics efficiency, and voter education as key focus areas. He also mentioned plans to introduce the use of clones to safeguard election materials. Before entering the chamber at 12:50 p.m., the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), moved that Order 12 be set aside to allow strangers into the chamber—a motion seconded by the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South). Senate President Akpabio revealed that Amupitan had been cleared by the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), all confirming that he has no criminal record. President Bola Tinubu had earlier written to the Senate seeking the screening and confirmation of Prof. Amupitan as INEC Chairman, in line with Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The President’s letter read: “In accordance with the provisions of section 154 subsection 1 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, I am pleased to present for confirmation by the Senate the appointment of Professor Joash Amupitan, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, as chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).” Tinubu expressed confidence in Amupitan’s capacity to lead the electoral body and urged the Senate to expedite the confirmation process — a request which the Senate fulfilled with unanimous consent.

Katsina, News

Katsina distributes wheelchairs, learning kits to 500 out-of-school children

The Katsina State Government, on Tuesday, distributed wheelchairs and learning kits to at least 500 out-of-school children in the state. In a speech at the launch of the distribution of the items in Katsina, Gov. Dikko Radda said the gesture aimed towards reducing the out-of-school children, and increasing school enrollment. Radda, represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman-Nasir, said that the event affirmed his administration’s commitment to education and the wellbeing of children in the state. Read Also: NGO promotes inclusive peacebuilding in Katsina via stakeholders’ training He said: “From the outset of this administration, we made it clear that the education of our children will remain a top priority. “We believe that no society can progress without investing in its young people, and no child should be denied access to learning because of poverty or circumstance. “Education and the wellbeing of our children are indeed the main concern of this government. “Today’s event, where 500 pupils are being taken back to school, is part of our ongoing efforts to make education accessible and inclusive.” The governor said that the kits being distributed, which included uniforms, sandals and essential writing materials, are intended to encourage regular school attendance and boost the confidence of the pupils as they return to the classroom. He also said that the Department of Girl Children Education and Child Development in charge of the distribution was also extending support to the school for the blind, through the provision of writing materials, ensuring that education remains truly inclusive in the state. “This initiative builds upon earlier successes recorded by the department, including the enrollment of 1,395 children into formal education in 2024, in collaboration with UNICEF. “These achievements reflect the values of our administration, compassion, inclusion and opportunity for all. “We will continue to invest in policies and programmes that promote learning, protect children and support teachers in delivering quality education,” the governor said. Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Girl Child Education, Hajiya Jamila Abdu-Mani, said the event “marked another milestone in our collective effort to ensure that every child in the state had access to education. “The distribution of the learning materials aims to support the children’s learning journey and ease the financial burden on their families. “We’re also distributing materials to Kasina State School for the Blind, in line with our commitment to inclusive education and equal opportunity for all learners. “This programme builds upon the remarkable progress our department has made in the past year, especially the enrollment of 1,395 out-of-school, achieved due to the political will of Gov. Radda. “Education is the most powerful tool we can give our children to break the cycle of poverty and scale their dignity,” Abdu-Mani said. (NAN)

Feature, Kano

Portrait of Compassion: Hamza Ibrahim Baba Dawakin Tofa, A Man For The People

It is a rare and wonderful thing when a person’s passion, intellect, and character align perfectly with their public duty. In the case of my friend of over two decades, Hamza Ibrahim Baba Dawakin Tofa, this is precisely the case, he is the very definition of a round peg in a round hole. My long-standing friendship with Hamza has afforded me a clear view of the man behind the titles: a man of profound passion and compassion. This is not merely a stated ideal but a principle etched into his every action. His innate empathy for the destitute and vulnerable has been the consistent compass guiding his career. This commitment was powerfully demonstrated during his tenure as Personal Assistant on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to the former Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives. In this role, Hamza faced the immense challenge of stretching limited resources to meet overwhelming need. With remarkable efficiency and sagacity, he developed and implemented transparent, impactful systems to ensure the Speaker’s charitable initiatives and compassionate outreach reached the maximum number of displaced families. He didn’t just distribute aid; he optimized hope. Read Also: ACF’s confused dance: When regional elders choose symbols over solutions Today, that same dedicated spirit is being applied on a broader scale. In his current appointment leading a segment of the Presidential social safety net mechanism, Hamza has not only performed exceptionally but has gone above and beyond his official mandate. He has spearheaded initiatives that directly transform lives at the community level, including: · Providing critical eye surgeries for the elderly and vulnerable, restoring sight and dignity. · Installing sustainable water systems in underserved communities, addressing a fundamental need for health and well-being. · Delivering targeted livelihood support to empower individuals and families, fostering self-reliance. Beyond his public service, Hamza is a man of formidable intellect and relentless drive. He is among the few friends with whom I share a common passion for knowledge and progress. This dedication was spectacularly validated last year when he graduated as the Overall Best Master of Science (MSc) student at the prestigious University of Lagos—a towering achievement that speaks volumes about his discipline and capability. I watch his trajectory with immense pride and anticipation. I am keenly waiting to see him add a PhD to his accolades, and I am confident that his proven blend of compassion, strategic acumen, and intellectual rigor will lead to his deployment to a high position within the echelons of the Federal Government of Nigeria. Hamza Ibrahim Baba Dawakin Tofa is not just a public servant; he is a testament to what dedicated, compassionate, and brilliant leadership can achieve. The nation needs more of his kind. Sincerely, Abdulkarim Suleiman Dambazau Kano, Nigeria.

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