The Historica Nigeria

2025

Kano, National, News

Meet Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, NERC Chairman

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), marking a major leadership shift in the country’s electricity regulatory body. The appointment was announced in a statement released Thursday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The nomination, which is subject to Senate confirmation, also includes Mr. Abubakar Yusuf as Commissioner for Consumer Affairs and Dr. Fouad Olayinka Animashun as Commissioner for Finance and Management Services. To ensure a seamless transition, Engr. Ramat is expected to assume office in an acting capacity pending his confirmation by the Senate, in accordance with statutory provisions. Read Also: Why Kano APC Backs Ganduje, Declares Him ‘Undisputed Leader’ of the Party President Tinubu urged the nominees to apply their expertise and experience in advancing the administration’s power sector reforms, particularly in strengthening regulatory oversight and consumer protection. A Brief Profile of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat Born in 1985, Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat is a seasoned electrical engineer, technology entrepreneur, and public servant from Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State. He began his educational journey at a community primary school in his locality and continued at Government Technical College, Ungogo, for his junior secondary education. He completed his senior secondary education at Dawakin Tofa Science College before proceeding to Bayero University, Kano, where he graduated with a Second Class Upper Division in Electrical Engineering. While still an undergraduate, Engr. Ramat demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial spirit by founding AG Ramat Global Links in 2008, a tech-driven company focused on IT and computer-based solutions. He later earned a Master’s degree in Telecommunications from Jodhpur International University, India, and went on to complete a PhD in Strategic Management from Lincoln University. Engr. Ramat also acquired several executive certifications from renowned global institutions, including Harvard University (Big Data Analytics and Civic Engagement), Google (Workshop Administration), Microsoft (Azure Solutions Architect Expert), and Gonzaga University (Power Transmission and Distribution Systems). In 2018, he ventured into partisan politics by contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives to represent Ungogo and Minjibir Constituency under the platform of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP). Though he did not win, his candidacy energized political awareness and engagement at the grassroots level. His rise in public service is closely linked to his mentorship under the former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Recognizing Ramat’s talent and capacity, Dr. Ganduje appointed him as Managing Director of the Kano Street Light Project, a key infrastructure initiative under the state government. Later, Ganduje supported his successful bid to become Chairman of Ungogo Local Government Area (2021–2024), where he made a notable impact by introducing Nigeria’s first blockchain-based decentralized e-identity system — a reform that revolutionized local citizen registration through the issuance of tamper-proof indigene and residency ID cards. Ramat’s tenure as local government chairman was widely praised for its innovation, transparency, and youth engagement, further cementing his reputation as one of Kano’s emerging technocrats with both administrative and digital savvy. His recent nomination to head NERC is seen as a strategic move to inject fresh perspective, modern regulatory tools, and technical leadership into Nigeria’s electricity sector. With his diverse academic background, international exposure, and solid track record in both private enterprise and public office, Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat is widely expected to lead the Commission into a new era of performance, reform, and consumer-centered regulation.

Kano, News

Popular Skit Maker Dan Bello Loses Father

Popular social media influencer and skit maker, Bello Habib Galadanci, widely known as Dan Bello, has lost his father. The news of the passing was confirmed on Thursday via a post shared by Barrister Abba Hikima, a close associate of the entertainer, on his verified Facebook page. Read Also: BUK Mourns Murdered Student, Assures Support for Justice The condolence message, written in Hausa, read: “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Allah ya yi wa mahaifin Dr. Bello Galadanci (Dan Bello) rasuwa yanzun nan. Allah ya gafarta masa. Ameen.” Messages of sympathy have since poured in from fans and fellow creatives mourning the loss alongside Dan Bello.

National, News

15 Correctional Officers Dismissed, 59 Demoted Over Misconduct

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board has dismissed 15 officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service for serious misconduct, following a disciplinary review of 224 cases involving personnel across the service. This was disclosed in a statement issued Thursday by the Service’s spokesperson, Umar Abubakar. According to the statement, the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee carried out “extensive investigations and due process” before recommending various sanctions, ranging from dismissals to demotions and warnings. Read Also: CDCFIB Approves Promotion of 30 Correctional Controllers to ACG Rank “A total of 15 personnel were dismissed from the Service for serious misconduct and violation of Service regulations,” Abubakar said. In addition to the dismissals, 59 officers were demoted due to confirmed breaches of professional standards, while 42 others received written warnings as part of corrective measures. The statement also revealed that 16 personnel were cleared of any wrongdoing, while seven others remain suspended pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations. In one notable case, an officer was suspended and recommended for handover to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for possible prosecution. Furthermore, the Board approved the compulsory retirement of eight officers. It also reversed the promotion of one officer and ordered the refund of salaries he received while holding the reversed rank. The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, reiterated the Service’s commitment to upholding discipline and professionalism, stating that all disciplinary actions are carried out in strict compliance with extant rules and procedures. He also urged the public to continue cooperating with the Service as it works to uphold integrity within its ranks.

Crime, Kano, News

Kano Government Media Aide Dies After Brutal Attack by Hoodlums

Sadiq Gentle, a Senior Special Reporter attached to the Kano State Ministry of History and Culture and working with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s media team, has died from injuries sustained during a recent attack by suspected hoodlums. Gentle passed away at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano, days after he was reportedly assaulted at his residence. Sources say the assailants inflicted deep machete wounds on him during the violent attack. Read Also: BUK Mourns Murdered Student, Assures Support for Justice His death has triggered an outpouring of grief from colleagues, associates, and members of the public, many of whom have described him as a dedicated journalist and public servant. As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, there are growing calls from the media community and civil society for a thorough investigation and for those responsible to be brought to justice. (Nigerian Tracker)

Crime, Kano, News

BUK Mourns Murdered Student, Assures Support for Justice

The Management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic death of Umar Abdullahi Hafizi, a 300-level student of the Department of Sociology, who was fatally stabbed by phone snatchers at his residence in Dorayi Quarters, Gwale Local Government Area, around 11:00 p.m. Although the incident occurred outside the university premises, the institution has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students. In a condolence message, the university extended heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Umar, describing his death as a painful loss to the entire university community. Read Also: Governor Yusuf Presents ₦5 Million Each and Plots of Land to Families of 22 Fallen Kano Athletes The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, speaking on behalf of the Management, assured that BUK is working closely with security agencies to ensure those responsible for the heinous act are apprehended and brought to justice. As part of its immediate response, the University facilitated the transportation of the deceased’s body to his hometown in Zaria, Kaduna State, where he was laid to rest according to Islamic rites. The University has called on students to remain calm and vigilant, and urged members of the public to cooperate with security operatives by providing any useful information that could assist in the ongoing investigation. In a statement issued by the University’s Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba Azare, BUK prayed for the repose of the soul of Umar Abdullahi Hafizi and for the Almighty to grant his family the strength to bear the irreparable loss.

Humanitarian, Kano, News

Governor Yusuf Presents ₦5 Million Each and Plots of Land to Families of 22 Fallen Kano Athletes

The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has presented ₦5 million and plots of land to the families of 22 Kano athletes who tragically lost their lives in a motor accident on May 31, 2025. The athletes were returning from the National Sports Festival held in Ogun State when the accident occurred. This was disclosed in a statement issued to journalists in Kano by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Ibrahim Adam. During the Kano State Executive Council meeting held at the Governor’s Lodge in Kwankwasiyya City, Governor Yusuf suspended proceedings to receive and console the bereaved families. According to Ibrahim Adam, the Governor described the athletes as “heroes of Kano” and emphasized the state’s commitment to honoring their memory. Read Also: Kano Government to Convert Historic Kurmawa Prison into Heritage Museum “The Governor listened to the families with compassion and immediately directed that all donations collected for them be disbursed without delay,” Ibrahim Adam stated. Breakdown of Donations to Families and Survivors A total of ₦6,709,375 has been raised and distributed to the families of the deceased volleyball players and injured survivors, according to Ibrahim Adam, a representative of the organizing committee. The funds were contributed by various individuals and organizations, including Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Remi Bola Tinubu, who donated ₦110 million — ₦5 million each to the families of the 22 deceased players. The Ogun State Government also contributed ₦32 million, covering ₦1 million each for the 22 deceased and 10 injured victims. Additionally, Engr. Sagir Ibrahim Koki donated ₦2.2 million as part of general support to the affected families, while the Volleyball Association of Nigeria provided ₦500,000 in solidarity. All contributions have been disbursed to the intended beneficiaries, providing much-needed relief and support in the wake of the tragic incident. Each bereaved family received ₦6,709,375, while each injured athlete received ₦1,709,375. “This is a reflection of national solidarity and empathy,” Ibrahim Adam noted. In addition to the donations, Governor Yusuf pledged ₦5 million and a plot of land to each of the 22 bereaved families. Survivors of the accident will also receive ₦2 million and a plot of land each. “This is the Governor’s personal commitment to ensuring that these families are not forgotten,” Ibrahim Adam emphasized. According to Ibrahim Adam, the total support package for each bereaved family amounts to ₦11,709,375 plus a plot of land, while each injured survivor will receive ₦3,709,375 and a plot of land. Governor Yusuf concluded the session with prayers for the deceased and appreciation for all donors. “May Allah reward everyone who contributed and grant eternal rest to our fallen athletes,” Ibrahim Adam conveyed. This act of compassion and leadership by Governor Yusuf has been widely praised across Kano State, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens said Ibrahim.

Humanitarian, News

Over 24,000 Nigerians Declared Missing, ICRC Reveals

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has revealed that more than 24,000 Nigerians are currently listed as missing by their families. María Toscano, ICRC’s Protection of Family Links Team Leader, disclosed the figures during a media workshop held in Maiduguri. She revealed that Borno State alone accounts for the highest number of missing persons, with approximately 9,000 out of the 16,000 cases registered by the ICRC in the North-East region. Toscano noted that while the organization continues its efforts to trace the missing individuals, progress has been slow. So far in 2025, 11 people have been successfully reunited with their families, adding to the 13 persons reunited in 2024. Read Also: UNICEF, KASPA Forge Stronger Ties to Improve Social Protection Outcomes in Kano She further stated that 71 percent of the 24,000 registered cases occurred between 2014 and 2015, the peak period of insurgency-related violence in the region. Bama Local Government Area in Borno alone accounts for about 5,000 of the missing persons. According to her, children make up a significant portion of the cases, with 65 percent of those declared missing in the North-East being minors at the time of their disappearance. Toscano also highlighted the challenges faced by the ICRC in tracing missing persons, including limited access to conflict-affected areas and difficulties in reaching families due to security and communication constraints. Earlier at the workshop, the Head of ICRC’s Sub-Delegation in Maiduguri, Diana Japaridze, expressed concern over the rising number of families still searching for loved ones after years of displacement caused by armed conflict. “Some people spend years searching for loved ones, often with no result. Families have a right to know their fate,” Japaridze said. “In the chaos of armed conflict, violence, and disasters, families can become separated in a matter of minutes, creating anguish and uncertainty especially when children, spouses, or parents go missing.” She called on media practitioners to play an active role in raising awareness about missing persons and in amplifying the voices of affected families. “While states should raise public awareness of the problem of missing persons as a fundamental concern under international humanitarian and human rights law, the mass media must draw the public’s attention to this issue and the needs of families left behind,” she said. Japaridze added that the workshop aimed to equip journalists with better tools to research the topic, ask meaningful questions, and report with empathy, accuracy, and professionalism. (NAN)

Kano, National, Politics

Why Kano APC Backs Ganduje, Declares Him ‘Undisputed Leader’ of the Party

Following a recent strategic gathering of key All-Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders at the residence of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje in Kano, one observation stood out, although Ganduje himself was not physically present, the meeting sent a strong and unified message of total loyalty to his leadership. The stakeholders reaffirmed their full support for him as the undisputed political leader of the APC in Kano State and pledged their commitment to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid ahead of 2027. Some observers had questioned the absence of Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, from the high-level meeting. However, political analysts quickly clarified that nearly all Kano APC political appointees, elected officials, and notable figures were in attendance. Only those with valid and verifiable reasons were absent, notably former Speaker Alhassan Ado Rurum and Rep. Sha’aban Ibrahim Sharada, who were in London to pay a courtesy visit to Ganduje himself. More than 80 percent of current Kano APC members either worked directly under Ganduje or served with him closely during his tenure, making the show of solidarity not just political, but deeply personal. Related: How Kano People Missed Dr. Ganduje As the APC continues to navigate internal alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, one truth is increasingly evident in Kano, the party’s resolute support for Ganduje remains unshaken. While outsiders may view this allegiance as predictable, those within the party describe it as rooted in a legacy of structure, empowerment, and political stewardship that continues to shape the APC’s direction statewide and across the Northwest. Dr. Ganduje, the immediate past Governor of Kano State and former National Chairman of the APC, is widely regarded as the pillar upon which the party stands in Kano. His political structure, the Gandujiyya Movement, is one of the most organized and far-reaching in the region, built on years of grassroots empowerment, deliberate political inclusiveness, and calculated strategy. He is credited with solidifying the party’s fortunes during his time in office, especially during the challenging 2019 re-election, which he won despite intense opposition. Under his leadership, the APC retained legislative dominance in Kano, contributed major votes to presidential contests, and built influential alliances across the region. Even after leaving office in 2023, Ganduje remained instrumental in the party’s campaign messaging and grassroots mobilization particularly in Northern Nigeria during the emergence of President Tinubu. Read Also: Ganduje’s Enduring Relevance: A Political Legacy That Transcends Tenure Ganduje’s commitment to youth and women empowerment, his appointments of loyalists to positions of relevance, and his ability to carry party members along have all helped cement his legacy within the APC. From ward leaders to technocrats, many within the party view him as a father figure and political mentor. Beyond Kano, Dr. Ganduje has maintained relevance at the national stage. As APC National Chairman, though briefly, he played a pivotal role in addressing party crises in key states, working to promote internal reconciliation and unity. His defence of Northern political interests during the build-up to the 2023 elections earned him further credibility within the region’s political elite. Despite opposition from the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano, Ganduje remains the rallying point for APC loyalists across the state. His absence from public office has not diminished his influence, rather has amplified his stature as the party’s strategic thinker and silent kingmaker. To Kano APC members, Ganduje is not just a former governor, but the engine behind the party’s survival and relevance. His loyalists continue to believe that the path to victory in 2027 lies in preserving his political structure and aligning with President Tinubu’s national agenda. The recent show of support from stakeholders reaffirms this belief. Understanding why Kano APC stands behind Ganduje is to understand the values of loyalty, political structure, and consistent leadership. His name continues to resonate across wards, local governments, and federal circles. As preparations for 2027 begin to unfold, the Ganduje factor remains central not just in Kano, but in the North, and by extension, the country at large. Umar Idris Shuaibu is a journalist and writes from Kano.

Feature, Kano, Profile

Kano’s Unsung Reformer: Dr. Hussaini Ganduje’s Legacy in Public Service and Community Leadership

Dr. Hussaini Umar Ganduje, a seasoned administrator, political actor, and community leader, has spent decades walking the delicate line between tradition and transformation, civil service and politics, local identity and national relevance. Born in Ganduje town in Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area of Kano State, his journey began with foundational Islamic education at a traditional Qur’anic school, makarantar allo, before progressing through the formal educational system. That journey culminated in a doctorate degree, a testament to his commitment to knowledge and public advancement. His entry into public life came during the era of the defunct Social Democratic Party, when he was elected Chairman of Dawakin Tofa Local Government. In that position, he became a bridge between grassroots needs and state-level governance, setting the tone for what would become a lifetime of public service. He later served as Commissioner (II) with the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), where he contributed significantly to the development of the basic education sector. Dr. Hussaini’s performance and dedication saw him appointed Executive Secretary of the Kano State Senior Secondary Schools Management Board during the first tenure of his elder brother, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, as Governor of Kano State. From there, he rose to the apex of civil service when he was promoted to the rank of Permanent Secretary, one of the most prestigious positions in the state bureaucracy. Related: Ganduje’s Legacy: Charting the Journey of a Political Titan Recognized for his vision in expanding access to education, he was later appointed Vice President (Northwest) of the National Open University of Nigeria. There, he championed distance learning and promoted inclusive education across communities in the Northwest, further cementing his status as a reform-minded leader with a national outlook. Beyond the formal structures of public office, Dr. Hussaini has played a vital role in mentoring and guiding young people, especially those from Ganduje and Dawakin Tofa, into careers in civil service and public administration. His legacy of support has opened doors for many young professionals across Kano and beyond. As a proud son of Fulani heritage, Dr. Hussaini also carved a niche in community leadership. He served two terms as Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Kano State, where he worked to resolve farmer-herder conflicts and build frameworks for peaceful coexistence. His credibility among pastoralist communities and conflict stakeholders earned him further recognition, culminating in his election as the Northwest Zonal Chairman of MACBAN. Read Also: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje In 2021, his leadership came into focus again during the Fulani Enumeration Exercise in Kano State, conducted under the Fulani Coalition. That exercise produced critical demographic data which informed national policy, including the eventual establishment of Nigeria’s first Ministry of Livestock Development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Outside of public administration, Dr. Hussaini is a businessman and a dedicated farmer. His investments in agriculture and enterprise have empowered many within his local community and contributed to employment generation in rural areas. Described by many as a “goldfish with no hiding place,” Dr. Hussaini remains a quiet but towering figure, whose impact resonates deeply with those who know his story. His decades of service reflect a life built on integrity, sacrifice, and transformation qualities that have made him not just a figure in Kano’s history, but one of its most enduring custodians of progress. With strong political roots in Kano North Senatorial District, and an enduring presence in the Gandujiyya movement, Dr. Hussaini continues to shape Kano’s political and developmental narrative. He is widely regarded as a mentor, a guide, and a bridge between generations steadfast in his commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and public service.

Education, National, News

Tinubu Hails Students’ Global Feat, Silent on Cash Reward Demands

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated three Nigerian students for their exceptional performance at the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals held in London, United Kingdom. The students, Nafisa Abdullahi Aminu, Rukayya Muhammad Fema, and Hadiza Kalli Kashim emerged as top winners in English language skills, debate, and outstanding talent categories, respectively, at the international competition that featured participants from over 60 countries. Related: Tinubu Rewards Super Falcons with Cash, National Honours, and Housing After AWCON Victory Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga disclosed the president’s commendation in a statement issued on Wednesday. Reacting to the development, President Tinubu lauded the students for making Nigeria proud on the global stage, stating that their achievements are a strong indicator of the country’s promising future. “The President encourages Nafisa, Rukayya, and Hadiza to remain steadfast in their studies and wishes them continued success,” the statement read in part. Read Also: Tinubu Honours D’Tigress with National Awards, Cash, and Housing for AfroBasket Triumph The government of Yobe State had earlier announced plans to honour Nafisa and Rukayya, both indigenes of the state, for their exceptional academic accomplishments. Meanwhile, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has called on President Tinubu to reward the students with national honours and monetary incentives, similar to those extended to Nigeria’s women’s football teams. “Nafisa deserves recognition: $100,000, a flat, and OON! What is good for the goose is good for the gander,” Pantami said in a social media post, referencing the president’s previous gesture toward the Super Falcons and D’Tigress, who each received $100,000 and a three-bedroom apartment for their sporting achievements. As reactions continue to trail the performance of the students and the federal government’s response, public discourse has emerged around the need to equally celebrate and invest in academic excellence as much as athletic success.

Scroll to Top