The Historica Nigeria

2025

Abuja, National, Politics

Mustapha Bala Dawaki Tipped as Likely New Chief of Staff to APC National Chairman

In what sources describe as a strategic political realignment within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Mustapha Bala Dawaki has emerged as a top contender for the position of Chief of Staff to the National Chairman of the party, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda. Multiple party insiders confirmed to ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ that Dawaki, a respected former federal lawmaker from Kano State, is being seriously considered for the influential role, especially as the APC leadership intensifies efforts to strengthen internal structures and enhance coordination at the top echelon of the party. Related: Prof. Nentawe’s Chairmanship Will Inspire APC, Says Mustapha Bala Dawaki Hon. Dawaki, who represented Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2023, is widely regarded as a seasoned administrator and loyal party figure with deep grassroots connections. His extensive background in public finance and legislative affairs, coupled with his track record in party politics, positions him as a bridge between the APC National Working Committee and critical stakeholders nationwide. “He has the discipline, strategic foresight, and loyalty that the National Chairman needs in such a role, especially at a time like this, when the party is working to maintain cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections,” said a source familiar with the development. Read Also: Tinubu Has Transformed FCT Within Two Years – Dr. Mariya Bunkure The anticipated appointment comes amid heightened political activity and internal consultations within the APC, as the party seeks to consolidate its national dominance while addressing internal dynamics in key battleground states, including Kano. Though an official announcement is yet to be made, officials at the APC national secretariat hinted that confirmation could come in the coming hours, pending final consultations. Hon. Mustapha Dawaki is known for his calm demeanor, technocratic approach, and strong grasp of political affairs in the North. He previously served as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, where he played a pivotal role in shaping several fiscal reform policies. If confirmed, Dawaki is expected to bring organizational discipline and strategic depth to the office of the Chief of Staff, a role crucial to the day-to-day operations of the APC National Chairman and coordination of party affairs across Nigeria. Political analysts believe that the choice of Chief of Staff at this juncture could significantly influence the effectiveness of the APC leadership ahead of major political milestones, including upcoming off-cycle elections and the 2027 general elections.

Environment, National, News

NiMet Forecasts Thunderstorms, Rainfall and Flash Flood Risk Across Nigeria

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a three-day weather outlook forecasting a mix of thunderstorms and rainfall across various parts of the country between Monday and Wednesday, with warnings of possible flash floods in some regions. In a statement released on yesterday in Abuja, NiMet said the forecast includes thunderstorms and moderate rainfall, particularly across northern and southern states, while urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain alert and take precautionary measures. According to the agency, thunderstorms are expected on Monday morning over parts of Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina States, followed by more widespread storms and moderate rains in the afternoon and evening. Read Also: Tinubu Has Transformed FCT Within Two Years – Dr. Mariya Bunkure “There is a high possibility of flooding over parts of Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi States during the forecast period,” the agency warned. In the North Central region, light rains are expected in the morning over Benue, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Kogi, and Nasarawa States. Afternoon and evening rains are predicted over Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, Niger, Benue, and the FCT. The South will see cloudy skies in the morning with light rain in parts of Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa States. These areas are likely to receive more rain later in the day, with flash flood risks over Oyo, Ogun, Edo, and Delta States. NiMet also forecasts morning thunderstorms on Tuesday across parts of Taraba, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Zamfara. The entire northern region is expected to receive moderate rain throughout the day. The central region will experience intermittent light rain over the FCT, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, and Benue. In the South, light rain is expected over Ebonyi, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Anambra, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Lagos, Edo, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States. Flooding is likely in parts of Anambra, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom. On Wednesday, NiMet predicts morning thunderstorms with moderate rainfall over Taraba and Kaduna, followed by isolated thunderstorms and rain in Borno, Bauchi, Taraba, Kaduna, Gombe, Yobe, Jigawa, Kano, and Adamawa later in the day. In the central region, Nasarawa, Niger, and the FCT are expected to experience morning rain, with intermittent light rainfall over the FCT, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, and Benue States in the afternoon. For the South, cloudy skies and light rain are forecast in the morning for Ebonyi, Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Cross River. Rain is also expected across the entire southern region later in the day, with Bayelsa facing a high risk of flooding. NiMet has urged the public to avoid driving during heavy downpours and to activate emergency response systems in flood-prone areas. It advised vulnerable individuals to dress warmly due to low night-time temperatures and warned against staying near tall trees or unsecured objects during thunderstorms. “Residents should disconnect electrical appliances during storms, and airline operators are advised to obtain airport-specific weather reports for effective planning,” the agency stated. NiMet also encouraged Nigerians to stay updated through its website: [www.nimet.gov.ng](http://www.nimet.gov.ng).

Kano, News

Kano Government to Convert Historic Kurmawa Prison into Heritage Museum

The Kano State Government has announced plans to convert the century-old Kurmawa Maximum Security Prison into a museum, in a landmark move aimed at preserving the state’s rich historical and cultural legacy. Built in 1910 by the British colonial administration, the Kurmawa Correctional Center located within the precincts of the Kano Emir’s Palace, was originally designed to accommodate 690 inmates. Over the past 115 years, the prison has stood as a major symbol of Kano’s colonial and correctional past. The Special Adviser on Information, Ibrahim Adam, made the announcement via his verified Facebook page on Monday. He revealed that all inmates currently held at the aging facility will be relocated to a newly constructed correctional center in Janguza, along the Kano–Gwarzo–Dayi Federal Highway, near a military barracks. Read Also: Tinubu Has Transformed FCT Within Two Years – Dr. Mariya Bunkure The modern Janguza facility, built during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, is designed to house up to 3,000 inmates, offering improved conditions and a more secure environment. According to Adam, “The Kano State Government will transfer all inmates currently at the Kurmawa Correctional Center to Janguza, while the Kurmawa Correctional Center will be transformed into a museum dedicated to preserving historical artifacts and promoting the rich culture of the state.” He added that the proposed museum will serve both educational and tourism purposes and will become a key heritage center within and around the ancient city of Kano. “We want to preserve our heritage and at the same time provide a more decent and secure environment for inmates,” Adam said, stressing the dual objective of cultural preservation and correctional reform. The initiative is part of the administration’s broader plan to revitalize historical landmarks and improve infrastructure across key sectors in the state.

Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, National, News

Tinubu Has Transformed FCT Within Two Years – Dr. Mariya Bunkure

Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, has hailed the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what she described as a “massive transformation” of Nigeria’s capital city within just two years. She made the remarks while speaking at a two-day interactive programme on government-citizen engagement organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna. Dr. Mariya, who represented the FCT Administration at the event, reaffirmed the government’s strong support for participatory governance, transparency, and equitable service delivery. Read Also: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future According to her, President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has brought meaningful development to both urban and rural areas of the FCT through infrastructure projects and people-centred policies. “I highlighted some of the numerous projects completed in both rural and urban cities which have significantly improved the social and economic well-being of residents,” she said. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has wiped away the tears of Gwagwalada residents by completing the Aguma Palace road to Radio Nigeria down to the New Market.” She disclosed that no fewer than 17 major projects have been completed and commissioned across the territory since the beginning of Tinubu’s administration. Dr. Mariya emphasized that the present administration recognizes that governance can no longer be a one-way process, stressing that citizens must be actively involved in policy formulation, project implementation, and service delivery. “Our mission remains to ensure transparent governance, promote accountability, and maintain open communication channels with Nigerians,” she noted. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is dedicated to improving lives, and we are seeing real impact.” She expressed her gratitude to President Tinubu for his continued support to the FCT, noting that the development achieved within the last two years surpasses progress made in several previous administrations. “Everybody who has seen the FCT within these two years compared to previous years, will acknowledge that His Excellency has done well for the nation’s capital city,” she added. Dr. Mariya concluded by urging stakeholders to support the administration’s efforts in delivering more infrastructure, improving social services, and deepening citizen participation in governance.

Jigawa, News

Eight Schoolgirls Drown in Jigawa Canoe Mishap

A tragic canoe accident has claimed the lives of eight young girls in Jigawa State after their boat capsized while crossing the Zangwan Maje River in Taura Local Government Area. According to security analyst Zagozola Makama, the incident occurred around 8:15 p.m. on Saturday as 15 children were traveling from Zangwan Maje to Jijin Gunka. The canoe reportedly overturned due to violent winds and strong river currents fueled by ongoing flooding. Read Also: Girls’ Hostel Razed by Fire at Dano Memorial Secondary School, Gani “Fifteen children were on board the canoe when it capsized. Seven were rescued alive, while the bodies of the eight others all girls, were later recovered and handed over to their families,” sources confirmed. The tragic event has been attributed to torrential rainstorms and rising water levels that overwhelmed the vessel. Local divers and community volunteers responded promptly, leading to the successful rescue of the survivors and retrieval of the victims’ remains. Authorities have called on residents to avoid crossing swollen rivers during the rainy season and urged the use of life jackets or alternative, safer modes of transportation. The state government is yet to release an official statement, but condolences continue to pour in for the grieving families.

Katsina, National, Politics

Katsina Senator Resigns from APC, Joins ADC

A prominent Katsina politician and former federal lawmaker, Senator Abubakar Sadiq Yar’adua, has formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing frustration with the party’s leadership and the federal government’s alleged failures in governance. In a strongly worded resignation letter dated July 28, 2025, and addressed to his APC Ward Chairman, Senator Yar’adua expressed deep disappointment with the direction of the party and its role in what he described as Nigeria’s deepening socioeconomic crisis. Related: Tanko Yakasai Accuses President Tinubu of Favoring Lagos with Federal Projects “I can no longer, in good conscience, support a party whose government continues to impose policies that undermine the welfare, dignity, and livelihoods of the Nigerian people,” he wrote. He condemned the APC-led administration as “bad, selfish and stinkingly corrupt,” adding that it now represents a betrayal of the values on which it was built. The former lawmaker also recalled his early sacrifices as one of the founding members of both the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and later the APC, which collectively helped to unseat the Goodluck Jonathan administration in 2015. “Sadly, those who once stood for change have become worse than the government they replaced. The APC has now turned into a reactionary force, disconnected from the masses,” he said. Yar’adua further accused the current party leadership of inaction in the face of worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and widespread abuses, saying Nigerians continue to suffer while the leadership prioritizes elite interests. Read Also: Why They Are Afraid of Dr. Ganduje He noted that the party has become increasingly detached from the plight of everyday citizens, referencing former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s earlier description of “urban bandits” to describe elite behavior. “Today,” he added, “we have actual bandits in government.” Declaring his immediate departure from the ruling party, Yar’adua urged his supporters, associates, and political allies across Katsina State and beyond to join him in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which he described as a platform committed to “restoring Nigeria’s lost glory and changing the nation’s political trajectory.” His defection is the latest in a growing list of high-profile exits from the APC, signaling rising discontent among party stalwarts over the government’s handling of national affairs.

Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

Why APC Cannot Ignore Ganduje in the 2027 Political Equation

As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves in the buildup to the 2027 general elections, the role of influential party stalwarts becomes increasingly critical, none more so than Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State. Amid shifting alliances and regional dynamics, Ganduje’s strategic foresight and political architecture continue to shape the party’s future, particularly in Kano and across the Northwest. Even after his exit as APC’s national chairman, Ganduje’s relevance within the party structure remains firmly intact. This is evident in how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his recent address in Abuja, acknowledged Ganduje’s immense contributions to party building, most notably his establishment of the APC Progressive Institute, a policy think tank aimed at fostering ideological clarity and leadership grooming within the ruling party. Positioning the APC in Kano Kano, one of Nigeria’s most politically consequential states, remains a key battleground for 2027. For Ganduje, whose tenure as governor solidified his reputation as a grassroots mobilizer and political tactician, the state represents both a legacy and a laboratory for his continued political influence. Read Also: Why They Are Afraid of Dr. Ganduje In recent years, Dr. Ganduje has quietly but effectively repositioned APC structures across Kano’s 44 local government areas, engaging party elders, youth blocs, and emerging stakeholders. His efforts have centered on reconciliation, inclusivity, and strategic expansion particularly in districts where the party’s performance had declined. Moreover, Ganduje’s extensive network of loyalists across state and federal institutions, including the Progressive Governors’ Forum, provides the APC with a formidable political engine in Kano. This influence is expected to be instrumental when the party begins its search for a governorship candidate. Eye on 2027: Candidate Selection and Unity One of the most anticipated roles Ganduje is expected to play is in the selection of a viable APC governorship aspirant for Kano State. As a former two-term governor, party leader, and elder statesman, his endorsement will carry significant weight, not just among party members but within the broader electorate. Political analysts argue that Ganduje’s approach will likely prioritize unity, competence, and continuity. He has repeatedly emphasized the need for APC to field candidates who embody discipline, loyalty, and mass appeal, that is the qualities he believes are non-negotiable in Kano’s volatile political atmosphere. Importantly, his track record suggests that he will use his influence not merely to install a loyalist, but to stabilize the party through consensus-building and strategic dialogue with stakeholders across factions. National and Zonal Contributions Beyond Kano, Ganduje’s contributions to the APC in the Northwest are equally significant. During his time as National Chairman, he worked to reconcile feuding party factions in states like Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi, laying the groundwork for a stronger zonal presence ahead of 2027. His tenure also saw the inclusion of more Northern professionals, women, and youth in party leadership, a move aimed at rebranding APC as a forward-looking and inclusive party. Even now, Ganduje remains a key adviser on national matters, particularly on Northern political strategy and grassroots mobilization. His ongoing mentorship of emerging leaders and his family’s growing presence in public service, such as Engr. Umar Abdullahi Umar Ganduje at the Rural Electrification Agency and Dr. Asiya Ganduje at the Northwest Development Commission, signal a continuity of vision and influence. A Lasting Political Legacy Dr. Ganduje’s political journey is far from over. As he transitions into the role of a statesman and kingmaker, his enduring relevance lies not just in his titles, but in his ability to galvanize support, build bridges, and steer APC through uncharted political waters. In a period where political loyalty is often fleeting and ideological direction uncertain, Ganduje stands as one of the few with both the experience and vision to provide steady leadership. Political analyst believed his actions in future time will not only shape APC’s fortunes in Kano but could also define its national trajectory. Umar Idris Shuaibu writes from Kano.

National, News

Why CDCFIB Extended 2025 Paramilitary Recruitment Deadline

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has extended the deadline for its ongoing 2025 paramilitary recruitment exercise to allow more Nigerians an opportunity to apply and complete their entries. The extension, which pushes the closing date from Monday, August 4 to Monday, August 11, 2025, was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Secretary to the Board, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) A.M. Jibril. “This extension is geared towards providing additional opportunity for applicants willing to be enlisted into any of the paramilitary services under the Board,” the statement explained. Read Also: Kano Hospitals Management Board Begins Recruitment of Medical Doctors The CDCFIB reminded applicants that the official recruitment portal remains https://recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng, and reiterated that the application process is free of charge and will be conducted in a fair and transparent manner. The extension comes just two days after the Board issued another advisory concerning applicants who submitted details before a recent portal upgrade. In a statement dated August 1, 2025, the Board advised such applicants to visit https://update.cdcfib.gov.ng to verify their information and complete the application process. The Board explained that after verification, an application slip will be generated using the previously issued application ID. It further clarified that the update portal is not for new applications, warning that any new submission made after the upgrade will override earlier records and will not be visible on the update portal. The CDCFIB urged applicants to comply with the revised procedures and timelines, noting that only those who follow the correct process will be considered.

Kano, News

Former Kano Anti-Corruption Boss Muhyi Magaji Wins, Completes Two Tenures

Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, the former Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, has successfully completed his tenure and handed over the baton on August 1, 2025. Rimin Gado was appointed by the former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, in June 2015. His tenure was renewed in June 2020 for another five-year term, in accordance with the commission’s establishment guidelines. However, in 2021, he was suddenly suspended by the 8th Kano State House of Assembly during Governor Ganduje’s administration over allegations that were never substantiated. One of the key issues was his intention to investigate an alleged contract scandal involving members of the former governor’s family. Read Also: Muhuyi Magaji Bows Out of Kano Anti-Graft Commission, Calls Exit “Honourable” As a legal practitioner known for his anti-corruption stance, Muhuyi Magaji challenged his suspension in court. Amid the legal battle, the Abuja Division of the court of appeal overturned the suspension and ordered his reinstatement. When a new administration led by Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf came into power in 2023, it promptly reinstated Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado. He has now completed his two-term tenure, which, according to the law establishing the commission, is non-renewable.   Profile of Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, a passionate Nigerian lawyer and activist, served as the Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC). Born on February 22, 1975, he is currently 50 years old and has earned recognition for his unwavering efforts in combating corruption and championing human rights in Kano State. His dedication reflects a strong commitment to social justice and accountability in governance. Recently, Muhuyi gained national attention due to legal challenges, including a suspension that was overturned by the Court of Appeal in Abuja. This episode highlights the turbulent landscape of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria and underscores his resilience and determination to uphold integrity in public service. Recognized as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s anti-corruption movement, particularly in Kano, Muhuyi Magaji continues to advocate for transparency and accountability in governance.   Legacy and Challenges Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado is a notable Nigerian lawyer and activist who held the position of Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC). Born on February 22, 1975, he has devoted much of his career to fighting corruption and promoting human rights in Kano State. His leadership has made him a key figure in Nigeria’s anti-corruption discourse, where he has spearheaded initiatives aimed at improving transparency and accountability in governance. Nevertheless, his steadfast commitment continues to resonate within the community, and he remains a central figure in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against corruption, especially in Kano State.

Humanitarian, News

Only 35.5% of Nigerian Newborns Breastfed in First Hour – UNICEF

Only 35.5 per cent of Nigerian newborns are breastfed within the first hour of birth, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Francis Busiku, made this known on Saturday during the flag-off ceremony of the 2025 World Breastfeeding Week in Maiduguri. He also revealed that just 28.8 per cent of babies in Nigeria are exclusively breastfed. Speaking at the event, Busiku highlighted this year’s theme, “Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support System,” which underscores the urgent need to provide women—especially those in rural and conflict-affected areas—with sustainable support systems that enable successful breastfeeding. Read Also: UNICEF Nigeria Gets New Country Representative He raised concerns over the increasing use of breast milk substitutes and the risks posed by unsafe water sources, which, he warned, could jeopardize the health of infants. “The use of breast milk substitutes and unsafe water in our communities can pose serious risks to the health of infants,” he said. “It is therefore critical that the state enacts, enforces, and monitors the International Code of Marketing of Breast milk Substitutes to protect children and promote breastfeeding.” Busiku reiterated that breast milk alone provides all the essential nutrients babies need in their first six months and offers protection from various illnesses. He urged the Borno State Government and other stakeholders to reinforce maternal protection policies, increase funding for maternal and child health, revive baby-friendly initiatives, and prioritise community-based nutrition programs. “Together, through strategic partnerships, innovative approaches, and sustained commitment, we can transform breastfeeding practices across Borno State,” he added. “UNICEF remains steadfast in its support to the government and partners in this vital vision.”

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