The Historica Nigeria

2025

Environment, National, News

FG Issues Flood Alert Across 19 States as Heavy Rainfall Predicted

The Federal Government has issued a flood warning for 19 states and 76 locations across the country, forecasting five days of intense rainfall that could lead to widespread flooding. The alert, issued on Tuesday by the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre under the Federal Ministry of Environment, indicates that the heavy downpour is expected to occur between August 5 and August 9. In light of the forecast, authorities have urged residents, local governments, and disaster response agencies in the affected areas to take immediate precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property. Read Also: NiMet Forecasts Thunderstorms, Rainfall and Flash Flood Risk Across Nigeria States expected to be impacted include Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Cross River, Nasarawa, Benue, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Kano, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Jigawa, Yobe, Zamfara, Sokoto, Borno, and Gombe. The specific locations listed in the forecast are Edor, Eket, Ikom, Oron, and Upenekang in Akwa Ibom; Tafawa-Balewa, Azare, Jama’are, Kari, Misau, and Jama’are in Bauchi; Abakaliki, Echara, and Ezilo in Ebonyi; and Ogoja Edor and Obubra in Cross River. In Nasarawa, the areas are Keana, Keffi, and Wamba; while Benue includes Agaku, Buruku, Gboko, Igumale, Ito, Katsina-Ala, Ugba, and Vande-Ikya. Kaduna is expected to be affected in Jaji, Kafanchan, Birnin-Gwari, and Zaria; and Katsina in Bindawa, Bakori, Daura, and Funtua. In Kebbi, the locations include Bagudo, Birnin-Kebbi, Bunza, Gwandu, Jega, Kalgo, Kamba, Kangiwa, Shanga, Ribah, Sakaba, Saminaka, Yelwa, and Gauri-Banza. Kano is expected to experience flooding in Bebeji, Gezawa, Gwarzo, Kano, Karaye, Tudun Wada, Wudil, and Kunchi. Other forecasted areas are Kontagora, Rijau, and Ringim in Niger; Mangu in Plateau; Donga and Takum in Taraba; Diginsa, Gumel, Dutse, Gwaram, Hadejia, and Miga in Jigawa; Machina and Potiskum in Yobe; Anka in Zamfara; Sokoto and Wamakko in Sokoto; Biu in Borno; and Bajoga in Gombe. The Ministry of Environment called for vigilance and cooperation from all stakeholders, emphasizing the need for early preparedness to prevent the loss of lives and damage to infrastructure during the expected period of intense rainfall.

Abuja, News, Politics

APC UK Delegation Visits New National Chairman, Pledges Support for Party Unity

A delegation from the United Kingdom chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday paid a congratulatory visit to the newly appointed National Chairman of the party, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja. Led by key executives of the APC UK Chapter, the delegation expressed solidarity and extended their goodwill to Professor Yilwatda, describing his emergence as party chairman as “well-deserved” and “timely.” Members of the delegation included Mr. Momoh Obaro (Secretary), Mr. Bernard Doro (Financial Secretary), Dr. CAL Amayo (Welfare Secretary), and Mrs. Abimbola Fasanu (Deputy Treasurer). Read Also: Rurum, Kano Governorship Candidate, Visits Ganduje in London as APC Strategizes for 2027 Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Obaro congratulated Professor Yilwatda and praised his leadership qualities. “The APC UK Chapter extends its warmest congratulations to you on your well-earned emergence as the National Chairman of our great party,” Obaro said. “Your wealth of experience, proven leadership, and strong commitment to progressive ideals come at a critical time for the APC and the nation.” He further expressed confidence in Yilwatda’s capacity to foster internal cohesion and strategic direction within the party. He reiterated the chapter’s readiness to collaborate with the national leadership in advancing the APC’s goals both domestically and internationally. “We believe that under your stewardship, the party will witness renewed unity, strengthened internal democracy, and a clear strategic direction,” he added. In his response, Professor Yilwatda appreciated the visit and lauded the APC UK Chapter for its continued engagement and loyalty to the party from the diaspora. He assured the delegation of an inclusive leadership style and emphasized the importance of collaboration with overseas chapters. “This visit is a reflection of our collective responsibility to build a stronger party,” the APC Chairman said. “We welcome continued partnerships with diaspora chapters to help shape a better future for the APC and the country.” The courtesy visit marks one of the first engagements by a diaspora chapter since Professor Yilwatda’s appointment, underscoring the growing interest in the party’s leadership and strategic direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.

National, News

Nigeria’s First Female Newspaper Editor and Publisher, Doyin Abiola, Passes Away

Dr. Doyin Abiola, Nigeria’s first female editor of a national daily newspaper and former Managing Director and Publisher of the National Concord, has passed away. Family sources confirmed that she died at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5. She was the wife of the late Chief MKO Abiola, the winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll. A trailblazer in Nigerian journalism, Dr. Abiola began her career at the Daily Sketch in 1969, where she created the influential column Tiro, focusing on public interest and gender issues. Read Also: Olubadan-in-Council Nominates Rashidi Ladoja as 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland In 1970, she left for the United States to pursue a Master’s degree in Journalism. Upon returning to Nigeria, she joined the Daily Times as a Features Writer and rose to become Group Features Editor. She later returned to the U.S., earning a PhD in Communications and Political Science in 1979. After her doctorate, she rejoined Daily Times and worked on the editorial board alongside media icons such as Stanley Macebuh, Dele Giwa, and Amma Ogan. Shortly afterward, she was invited to become the pioneer editor of the National Concord, and in 1986, she was promoted to Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, making her the first Nigerian woman to lead a national newspaper in that capacity. Her career at National Concord spanned over three decades, during which she played a pivotal role in shaping Nigerian journalism. Beyond the newsroom, she also served in various capacities within the media industry and contributed to national development initiatives. Dr. Doyin Abiola married Chief MKO Abiola in 1981. Her legacy as a pioneer and symbol of excellence in journalism will remain indelible.

Kano, News

Kano Commissioner for Transport Resigns Over Drug Suspect Bail Controversy

Kano State Commissioner for Transportation, Ibrahim Ali Namadi, has resigned from his position amid public backlash surrounding his involvement in securing bail for a suspected drug trafficker, Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu. The development comes shortly after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf received the report of a committee set up to investigate the incident. In a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the embattled commissioner said his resignation was in the public interest, considering the sensitivity of the matter and the administration’s strong stance against drug-related offences. Read Also: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje “As a member of an administration that has consistently championed the fight against the sale and consumption of illicit drugs, it behoves me to take this step painful as it may be,” Namadi said. While maintaining his innocence, Namadi noted the importance of public perception and the need to safeguard the integrity of the administration. “I cannot ignore the weight of public opinion and the need to protect the values we have collectively built,” he added. He expressed gratitude to Governor Yusuf for the opportunity to serve, pledging continued loyalty to the vision and principles of the administration. Governor Yusuf accepted the resignation and used the occasion to reaffirm his government’s zero-tolerance stance on drug-related crimes and other social vices. He also advised political appointees to act with discretion on sensitive matters and seek appropriate clearance before getting involved in public issues.

News, Zamfara

Zamfara Rep. Renovates 80 Cemeteries as Constituency Project

A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kabiru Mai Palace, has renovated 80 cemeteries across the Gusau/Tsafe Federal Constituency of Zamfara State as part of his constituency project. Speaking during the inauguration of the renovated cemeteries on Monday, August 5, the lawmaker, who chairs the House Committee on Sports, said the gesture was in commemoration of his second anniversary in office as a second-term federal lawmaker. “We have undertaken the renovation of 80 cemeteries in Gusau and Tsafe local government areas as part of my two-year anniversary. The condition of many cemeteries in our constituency had deteriorated, prompting the need for urgent intervention,” he said. Read Also: Tragedy: Woman, Five Children Die as Building Collapses During Downpour Hon. Mai Palace emphasized the religious and moral significance of maintaining cemeteries, especially in Islam, stating that cemeteries are a constant reminder of life’s final destination. “As Muslims, we understand the importance of preserving the dignity of our final resting place. Maintaining cemeteries not only reflects our values but also helps prevent disasters and other societal challenges associated with neglect,” he added. He further noted that the project is part of his broader commitment to improve infrastructure and enhance the welfare of his constituents across all sectors, including health, education, and community development. The inauguration ceremony was attended by traditional leaders, community members, and representatives from religious and civil society groups, who all commended the initiative as timely and thoughtful.

Katsina, News

Tragedy: Woman, Five Children Die as Building Collapses During Downpour

Tragedy struck Dankama town in Katsina State as a mother and her five children lost their lives when their house collapsed during a heavy downpour in the early hours of Tuesday. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. while the family was asleep. According to reports, the building caved in due to the intensity of the rainfall, claiming six lives and leaving others injured. The father of the children, Muhammad Sani, confirmed the heartbreaking incident to journalists in Katsina. He said he was away from home at the time and returned to find the devastating aftermath. Read Also: NiMet Forecasts Thunderstorms, Rainfall and Flash Flood Risk Across Nigeria “This affected about 10 people, but sadly, six didn’t survive. Three others are currently receiving treatment in the hospital,” he said. The deceased have been identified as Mariya Sani, 45; Mujahid, 20; Zahariya, 18; Hauwa, 15; Amira, and five-year-old Nura Sani. Muhammad Sani expressed deep sorrow over the loss but said, “I surrender to Allah’s will. May He grant them eternal rest.” The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the incident has thrown the entire community into mourning, with neighbours and relatives trooping to the family house to offer condolences and support. Confirming the incident, the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hajiya Binta Dangani, said a team from the agency had visited the affected family to assess the situation and offer immediate assistance.

Crime, Kano, News

Kano Governor Receives Report on Commissioner’s Role in Drug Suspect’s Bail

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has received the report of the committee set up to investigate the involvement of the Commissioner for Transport, Ibrahim Namadi, in securing bail for a suspected drug trafficker, Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu. The committee, chaired by Barrister Aminu Hussain who also serves as the Governor’s Special Adviser on Justice and Constitutional Matters, submitted its findings on Monday to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim. Barrister Hussain disclosed that the committee interviewed all parties connected to the case, including the commissioner, who provided a written statement. Others questioned included Abubakar Umar Sharada, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Mobilisation, and Musa Ado Tsamiya, SSA on Drainages. Read Also: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje “We engaged with relevant security and legal institutions such as the Department of State Services (DSS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to ensure the integrity and legal grounding of our report,” Hussain stated. He emphasized that the committee operated independently without any interference from the Governor. “We were given full freedom to conduct our assignment fairly and transparently,” he added. The committee also reviewed certified legal documents pertaining to the case. Receiving the report, the SSG commended the committee for its professionalism and timely delivery. “You have done your work diligently and within the timeframe. I assure you the report will be delivered to His Excellency immediately for prompt review,” he said. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, in a brief remark, assured that his administration would act swiftly on the committee’s recommendations.

Economy, National, News

Tinubu Signs Insurance Industry Reform Bill into Law, Sets Stage for $1 Trillion Economy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Bill, 2025, a landmark legislation aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s financial sector and fast-tracking the nation’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy. This was conveyed in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. The statement noted that the reforms are expected to catalyse new investments, boost consumer confidence, and position Nigeria as a leading insurance hub in Africa. The Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025 repeals and consolidates multiple outdated insurance laws into a single modern legal framework. It introduces robust regulation and oversight of all insurance and reinsurance businesses operating in the country. Read Also: Tinubu Has Transformed FCT Within Two Years – Dr. Mariya Bunkure The Act reflects the Tinubu administration’s commitment to financial stability, inclusive growth, and sustainable economic development under its Renewed Hope Agenda. Some of the key highlights of the new law include stricter capital requirements for operators, mandatory enforcement of compulsory insurance policies, digitisation of the insurance market, and zero tolerance for delays in claims settlement. It also provides for the creation of policyholder protection funds in cases of insolvency and expands Nigeria’s participation in regional insurance schemes such as the ECOWAS Brown Card System. The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has been mandated to implement the provisions of the Act in a way that unlocks the sector’s full potential and significantly improves insurance coverage across the country.

Feature, Kano, National, Politics

Ganduje’s Legacy: Charting the Journey of a Political Titan

Democracy, simply defined as a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, is a globally accepted system where citizens participate in governance through voting. At its core, democracy emphasizes service to the people, as leaders are entrusted with power by the electorate and are expected to act in their best interest. Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the country has experienced multiple transitions in leadership. Kano State, like other parts of the federation, has witnessed its share of elected leaders. However, the administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who served as Governor from 2015 to 2023, is widely acknowledged as one of the most transformative and people-focused in the history of the state. Ganduje’s tenure was marked by unprecedented infrastructural growth, modernization of public services, investments in education, youth empowerment, and the promotion of Islamic and cultural values. Even his critics admit that the scale of development achieved under his leadership left a lasting impact on Kano State and its people. Related: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje What sets Dr. Ganduje apart is not only the visible projects he delivered but the systems he institutionalized. He groomed a new generation of political actors, many of whom are now holding public offices. His governance style emphasized discipline, accessibility, continuity, and a strategic vision that bridged traditional values with modern governance. Born in Ganduje town of Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area, Dr. Ganduje’s humble beginnings are grounded in Islamic education and a strong academic background. He earned his degrees from renowned institutions including Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and served meritoriously in the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) before making his mark in politics, rising from Commissioner to Deputy Governor, then two-term Governor, and now Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). His influence has continued to grow nationally. As former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ganduje was instrumental in resolving internal party disputes, spearheading high-profile defections, and strengthening the ideological and structural base of the APC through initiatives such as the establishment of the Progressive Institute. Read Also: How Kano People Missed Dr. Ganduje This rising national profile was evident during a recent strategic APC stakeholders’ meeting in Kano, where party leaders unanimously reaffirmed their undisputed loyalty to Dr. Ganduje and endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027. The gathering, held at Ganduje’s residence, drew key political figures including the Kano APC Chairman, federal lawmakers, minister of state FCT, and former gubernatorial candidates, who praised Ganduje’s leadership and commitment to party cohesion. Kano APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas noted that the gathering was a testament to Ganduje’s enduring influence and the trust he commands within the party structure. He emphasized the importance of unity and electoral preparedness, clearly attributing these qualities to Ganduje’s guidance and political dexterity. The strategic alignment between Dr. Ganduje and President Tinubu was also recognized. Ganduje was among the earliest northern leaders to publicly align with Tinubu ahead of the 2023 elections, a move that significantly shaped APC’s momentum and support base in the North. President Tinubu, in turn, has publicly commended Ganduje for his crucial contributions to the party’s electoral victories and internal stability. Ganduje’s political trajectory continues to reflect a man deeply rooted in public service, strategic leadership, and national development. Whether in the realm of infrastructure, youth development, party leadership, or political mentorship, his impact resonates beyond Kano and reverberates across Nigeria’s political spectrum. As preparations for the 2027 general elections quietly build up, stakeholders within the APC, and indeed across the political landscape are increasingly recognizing Dr. Ganduje’s role as not just a political figure but a pillar of strategic vision and continuity. His legacy is not merely one of past achievements, but of ongoing influence, thoughtful engagement, and a commitment to shaping the future of Nigeria’s democracy through unity, inclusion, and development. Umar is a journalist and writes from Kano.

Kano, Politics

Rurum, Kano Governorship Candidate, Visits Ganduje in London as APC Strategizes for 2027

Federal lawmaker Hon. Kabiru Alhassan Rurum on Tuesday paid a courtesy visit to the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, in London. Rurum, who represents Rano, Kibiya, and Bunkure Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, was accompanied by former Kano State governorship candidate and member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Sha’aban Ibrahim Sharada. Read Also: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje The visit comes against the backdrop of ongoing political realignments within the Kano chapter of the APC. Just today, party stakeholders held a strategic meeting in the state, where they unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027 and reaffirmed Dr. Ganduje as the undisputed leader of the party in Kano. Hon. Rurum, a former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly during Ganduje’s tenure as governor, is regarded as one of the loyal allies of the former governor and a key figure in the party’s current mobilization efforts. The high-level visit in London is seen as part of broader consultations and alliance-building as the APC positions itself ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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