The Historica Nigeria

  • thehistoricanigeria01@gmail.com
Edit Template
Facebook-f Twitter Instagram
Hot News
Oluremi Tinubu’s Kano Visit Signals Support for Innovation, Youth Development – KASPA DG

Oluremi Tinubu’s Kano Visit Signals Support for Innovation, Youth Development – KASPA DG

Matawalle Faces Allegation of Trying to Buy Silence Over Killings Report

Matawalle Faces Allegation of Trying to Buy Silence Over Killings Report

Tinubu Rejigs Cabinet, Names Oyedele New Finance Minister

Tinubu Rejigs Cabinet, Names Oyedele New Finance Minister

APC releases schedule for 2027 elections, fixes cost nomination form

APC releases schedule for 2027 elections, fixes cost nomination form

BOOST Project, CoP Seek Legislative Action on Zero-Dose Children in Kano

BOOST Project, CoP Seek Legislative Action on Zero-Dose Children in Kano

Tinubu Extends Wudil Police Academy to Ogun, Releases ₦15bn Take-Off Fund

Tinubu Extends Wudil Police Academy to Ogun, Releases ₦15bn Take-Off Fund

Supreme Court Adjourns Kano Emirate Suit to April 2027

Supreme Court Adjourns Kano Emirate Suit to April 2027

KSP Partners JOSTUM to Offer PGD Courses in Management, Social Sciences

KSP Partners JOSTUM to Offer PGD Courses in Management, Social Sciences

How Abba Kabir Yusuf is Positioning Kano as the Commercial and Industrial Capital of Northern Nigeria

How Abba Kabir Yusuf is Positioning Kano as the Commercial and Industrial Capital of Northern Nigeria

Kano at the Heart of Nigeria’s Innovation Revolution: Why Sub-National Resource Mapping Matters Now

Kano at the Heart of Nigeria’s Innovation Revolution: Why Sub-National Resource Mapping Matters Now

2026

Jigawa, Kano, News

Retreat: BUK Professor Advocates Ethical, Inclusive Digital Journalism

/

A Professor of Mass Communication at Bayero University Kano (BUK), Nura Ibrahim, has urged online journalists to prioritise responsible engagement and respect for privacy in the discharge of their professional duties. Prof. Ibrahim made the call while presenting a paper at a two-day retreat organised for members of the Kano Online Media Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), held in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital. The retreat, sponsored by the Kano State Government through the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, brought together online journalists to strengthen their professional capacity under the theme, “Strengthening Digital Journalism Through Ethical Practice and Responsible Online Engagement.” Speaking during his presentation, the professor from the Department of Information and Media Studies, Faculty of Communication, Bayero University Kano, stressed the need for balance in reportage and cautioned journalists against the use of inflammatory language. Read Also: 300-Year-Old Kano Farming Settlement Faces Extinction Over Sand Mining Kano Govt Strengthens Digital Journalism Through Ethics-Focused Media Retreat Banks, Fintechs to Begin 7.5% VAT Deduction on Electronic Service Charges Monday He also urged practitioners to promote inclusivity, uphold cultural and religious sensitivity, avoid incitement, and ensure proper verification of facts before publication. According to him, correcting errors promptly and updating content where necessary are essential to maintaining public trust. Prof. Ibrahim further encouraged online journalists to actively combat misinformation by explaining issues accurately, providing credible sources, and avoiding the spread of rumours. He also advised the adoption of language optimisation tools alongside responsible search engine optimisation (SEO) practices to enhance credibility and reach without compromising ethical standards.

National, News

Religious Undertones in Govts $9m Image Laundering Scandal, Says ADC

/

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the Federal Government’s approval of a $9m contract for lobbying services in the US, calling it “scandalous” and “a reflection of misplaced priorities”. The party says the move shows the government’s focus on polishing its image abroad rather than addressing Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship. “The Tinubu administration is more concerned with its international image than the plight of Nigerians,” ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, said. Read Also: Dr. Ganduje’s Political School and the Rise of Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure at 48 Banks, Fintechs to Begin 7.5% VAT Deduction on Electronic Service Charges Monday FG Unveils New ASUU Deal, Promises Better Pay, Stability The ADC argues the money could be better spent on protecting lives and easing citizen suffering, especially with thousands killed by insecurity and millions struggling to afford basics. The party also criticizes the government’s attempt to frame the lobbying effort around “Christian protection”, warning it could worsen sectarian tensions.

Abuja, Feature, Kano

Dr. Ganduje’s Political School and the Rise of Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure at 48

/

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano As Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure marks her 48th birthday, encomiums have continued to pour in from across political, professional and social divides, celebrating a woman whose life reflects purpose, discipline and uncommon dedication to public service. Currently serving as the Honourable Minister of State in charge of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Dr. Bunkure has, over the years, carved a distinct identity as a technocrat of depth, a politician of principle and a leader guided by compassion. Her journey stands as a testament to what disciplined leadership, professional excellence and human empathy can achieve in public life. A trained medical consultant, Dr. Bunkure’s background in healthcare laid the foundation for her people-centred approach to governance. Her transition into public service did not dilute her professional values; rather, it strengthened her resolve to pursue policies and decisions that prioritise human welfare, equity and institutional effectiveness. Colleagues and associates often describe her as calm, focused and methodical qualities that have continued to define her leadership style. Beyond her technocratic competence, Dr. Bunkure’s political conduct has earned her widespread respect. Her steadfast loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and firm alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda underscore her belief in collective vision over personal ambition. In an era where political opportunism often overshadows ideology, she has remained consistent, disciplined and committed to the broader objectives of national development. Read Also: Ganduje Rallies Kano APC Members for Strategic E-Registration Push APC Eyes Control of 30 States as Governor Yusuf’s Possible Defection Redraws Kano Politics Kano Power Struggle Heats Up as Yusuf Reappears Without Kwankwaso Allies Equally notable is her respect for party structure and leadership. Her cooperation and obedience under the guidance of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), exemplify a politics rooted in consultation, loyalty and respect for constituted authority. This approach has contributed significantly to strengthening party unity in Kano State and beyond, reinforcing cohesion at critical moments in the nation’s political journey. Yet, beyond titles and offices, Dr. Bunkure’s humanity stands out. Her kindness, accessibility and philanthropic spirit have touched many lives, particularly women, youths and the less privileged. As a caring mother, devoted wife and compassionate leader, she has demonstrated that strength and humility can coexist, and that leadership is most impactful when anchored in service to humanity. At 48, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure represents a rare blend of professionalism, political maturity and moral clarity. Her life and career continue to inspire a generation seeking role models defined not merely by ambition, but by integrity, loyalty and compassion. As she celebrates another year, prayers abound for long life, good health, renewed strength and divine wisdom. May Allah (SWT) continue to guide her steps, protect her path and reward her service in this world and the Hereafter. In celebrating Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, Nigeria celebrates a leader whose record speaks louder than rhetoric, and whose journey remains one of purposeful impact.

Economy, National, News

Banks, Fintechs to Begin 7.5% VAT Deduction on Electronic Service Charges Monday

/

The Federal Government has directed commercial banks, microfinance institutions and fintech platforms to commence the collection and remittance of a 7.5 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on selected electronic banking service charges with effect from Monday, January 19, 2026. The directive applies strictly to service fees charged on electronic transactions and not to the actual amount transferred by customers. The Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), formerly the Federal Inland Revenue Service, said the move is aimed at standardising tax collection within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital economy and ensuring uniform compliance across the financial services sector. ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ reports that under the directive, financial institutions are required to deduct VAT solely from the transaction service fee. For instance, a transfer charge of ₦100 will now attract an additional ₦7.50 as VAT. Read Also: Inflation to Fall Below 10% as Nigeria’s Economy Rebounds — Tinubu Confirming the development in a notice to customers, fintech firm Moniepoint said it would begin implementing the directive from the stipulated date. The company explained that the VAT would be remitted to the Nigerian Revenue Service in line with government regulations. Moniepoint disclosed that the tax would apply to specific banking services, including electronic transfer charges, USSD transaction fees, mobile banking services and card issuance fees. According to details of the directive, VAT will be charged on mobile money transfers, USSD sessions and card-related fees, while interest earned on savings and deposit accounts remains exempt. The NRS further directed financial institutions to ensure transparency by clearly itemising VAT charges on transaction receipts and account statements to enable customers easily track deductions. The enforcement of VAT on electronic banking service charges follows the implementation of the new Tax Act, under which banks recently reinstated the ₦50 stamp duty formerly known as the Electronic Money Transfer Levy on electronic transfers of ₦10,000 and above. Although VAT on banking services is not entirely new, the NRS said the renewed enforcement is intended to ensure that both fintech platforms and traditional banks comply with the same remittance framework, thereby closing existing revenue gaps. As the January 19 commencement date approaches, customers are expected to receive similar notifications from other banks and fintech platforms detailing how the VAT deductions will apply to eligible electronic banking services.

Feature

Streetlight Swagger Unleashed: ‘Kabiru Bagudu Says DSP Barau Turns Bichi into a Glow-Up City’

/

By Kabiru Inuwa Senator Barau Jibrin was the first political leader to introduce solar streetlights in Bichi Local Government Area, according to a clear and unequivocal statement by SLA Kabiru Bagudu, effectively settling ongoing public debate over the origin of the project. “Senator Barau was the first to introduce solar streetlights in Bichi,” Bagudu said, firmly attributing the initiative to the senator’s early development interventions in the area. Bagudu’s statement directly addresses recent claims by some youths seeking to reassign credit for the solar lighting project. His clarification shifts the discussion from political sentiment to historical fact, emphasizing initiation rather than subsequent expansion or maintenance. In governance and public administration, origins matter. The Greek philosopher Aristotle, in his theory of causation, argued that every outcome can be traced to a first cause. Applied to development policy, this principle holds that while projects may evolve over time, recognition for their conception belongs to the initiator. Available community accounts and development records indicate that Senator Barau introduced the solar streetlight initiative at a time when Bichi had limited urban infrastructure and before such projects became commonplace in local governance. The intervention reflected foresight and planning rather than political expediency. Political philosopher John Locke maintained that legitimate leadership is grounded in actions that advance the collective good. Supporters argue that Senator Barau’s early focus on sustainable street lighting aligns with this principle, demonstrating governance oriented toward long-term public benefit rather than short-term political gain. The controversy surrounding the project also reflects a pattern identified by Niccolo Machiavelli, who observed that pioneers of new initiatives often face resistance or revisionism once their ideas become widely accepted. As innovations are normalized, public memory frequently shifts away from the original initiator. Read Also: Group Backs Adamu Abdu Fanda for Kano Deputy Governorship, Cites Experience, Competence Bagudu’s clarification therefore serves as a corrective to what analysts describe as political amnesia. As G.W.F. Hegel noted, history progresses through identifiable stages, each built upon the foundations laid by earlier actors. Removing the initial stage distorts the entire narrative. Within the broader political landscape, Senator Barau’s career reflects sustained institutional engagement rather than opportunism. Sociologist Max Weber described such authority as rational-legal, earned through consistency, structure, and adherence to established norms. For many residents of Bichi, the solar streetlights now in place represent more than infrastructure. They symbolize the lasting impact of early decisions and the resilience of factual history. As political theorist Hannah Arendt observed, facts remain stubbornly persistent even when contested. Bagudu’s statement ultimately reduces the debate to a single, verifiable conclusion: the solar streetlight project in Bichi began under Senator Barau Jibrin’s leadership.

Kano, News

Fire Outbreak Destroys 17 Tricycles, Two Fuel Tankers at Kano Filling Stations

/

No fewer than 17 tricycles and two petrol tankers were destroyed in two separate fire outbreaks at filling stations in Kano State on Tuesday. The Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, Saminu Abdullahi, confirmed the incidents in a statement issued on Wednesday. Abdullahi said the first fire occurred at AA Ayagi Filling Station, Kanye village, along Gwarzo Road in Kabo Local Government Area, at about 8:45 p.m. According to him, the Fire Service control room received a distress call at about 20:45 hours from one of its personnel, Muhammad Wada Abdulsalam, reporting a fire outbreak at the station. Read Also: 300-Year-Old Kano Farming Settlement Faces Extinction Over Sand Mining Firefighters from the Rijiyar Zaki division were immediately deployed to the scene, where they met a petrol tanker conveying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) already engulfed in flames while offloading fuel. He explained that the tanker, with registration number XPB 999 FA and owned by AA Ayagi Company, had discharged fuel from two compartments into an underground tank, while three other compartments containing about 5,000 litres of petroleum products were being offloaded when the fire broke out. The inferno completely destroyed the tanker truck, Abdullahi said. He added that the second incident occurred at Al-Wahida Nigeria Limited Filling Station, Rimin Kebe Karshen Kwalta, in Nassarawa Local Government Area. The affected tanker, owned by BA Bello Company and bearing registration number KHX 29 XA, was said to be conveying about 45,000 litres of petroleum products when the fire started during the offloading process. Abdullahi said the blaze destroyed the tanker head, part of the tanker body, and 17 tricycles (Adaidaita Sahu) parked nearby. He noted that firefighters were able to contain the fire, preventing it from spreading further, while a portion of the petroleum products and parts of the tanker body were salvaged. The Fire Service spokesperson also disclosed that another fire incident occurred at Kundila Quarters near SALSA College, where one room, a toilet and a corridor in a residential building were destroyed. Meanwhile, the Director of the Kano State Fire Service, Sani Anas, advised members of the public, particularly filling station operators and fuel tanker drivers, to strictly observe safety measures during fuel handling and offloading to prevent avoidable disasters.

Education, National, News

FG Unveils New ASUU Deal, Promises Better Pay, Stability

/

The Federal Government has finalized a comprehensive agreement with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), promising improved remuneration and stability in tertiary institutions. The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, presented the agreement in Abuja, framing it as the culmination of President Bola Tinubu’s direct intervention. Read Also: Nigeria Signs $9m Deal With U.S Lobbyists Over Christian Persecution Allegations Tinubu Says Nigeria to Generate Up to $3bn Yearly From Carbon Market Kano Govt Strengthens Digital Journalism Through Ethics-Focused Media Retreat Key provisions include a significant review of remuneration for academic staff, a Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance, and a Professorial Credit Allowance for senior academics. The agreement addresses conditions of service, university funding, autonomy, and academic freedom, and takes effect from January 1, 2026.

National, News

Nigeria Signs $9m Deal With U.S Lobbyists Over Christian Persecution Allegations

/

The Federal Government of Nigeria has entered into a $9 million contract with a Washington-based lobbying firm, DCI Group, to counter claims of Christian persecution and influence the United States government’s perception of Nigeria’s efforts to protect Christian communities. Documents filed with the United States Department of Justice and first reported by TheCable show that the agreement was facilitated by Kaduna-based law firm, Aster Legal, on behalf of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu. Under the contract, DCI Group is mandated to assist the Nigerian government in “communicating its actions to protect Nigerian Christian communities and maintaining U.S. support in countering West African jihadist groups and other destabilising elements.” The agreement stipulates a monthly fee of $750,000, amounting to $9 million over a 12-month period. It commenced with an initial six-month term set to expire on June 30, 2026, with an automatic renewal clause for an additional six months. Read Also: Tinubu Says Nigeria to Generate Up to $3bn Yearly From Carbon Market Kano Govt Strengthens Digital Journalism Through Ethics-Focused Media Retreat US Delivers Military Supplies to Nigeria to Support Security Operations Records indicate that Nigeria made an upfront payment of $4.5 million on December 12, 2025, covering the first half of the contract, while the balance is expected to be paid upon completion of the initial term. The contract also provides that either party may terminate the agreement “for any reason without penalty” by giving a 60-day written notice. The lobbying move follows growing diplomatic tensions between Abuja and Washington over allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria. In October 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” citing violence against Christians. Nigerian authorities have consistently rejected the designation, arguing that insecurity in the country stems from terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts rather than religious targeting. Tensions further escalated in November when President Trump suggested the possibility of direct U.S. intervention, including potential military action, to protect Christian communities. The situation intensified on Christmas Day when the U.S. military carried out airstrikes on terrorist targets in Bauni Forest, Sokoto State, signalling increased U.S. involvement in Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations. In response, the Federal Government reiterated its commitment to engaging the United States through diplomatic and legal channels to address what it described as misconceptions surrounding the safety of Christian communities in Nigeria.

Jigawa, News

Kano Govt Strengthens Digital Journalism Through Ethics-Focused Media Retreat

/

The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ethical, responsible and professional digital journalism, describing the media as a critical pillar of democratic governance. The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, stated this on Wednesday while declaring open a two-day retreat for members of the Kano Online Media Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Dutse, Jigawa State. The retreat, organised by the Kano Online Media Chapel with the support of the Kano State Government, is themed “Strengthening Digital Journalism Through Ethical Practice and Responsive Online Engagement.” Waiya said the training, the first of its kind for online newspaper publishers in Kano State, underscored the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s recognition of journalism as a vital component of democratic practice. He commended Governor Yusuf for approving and sponsoring the retreat, noting that the gesture reflected the government’s commitment to manpower development across sectors, including the media. Read Also: 300-Year-Old Kano Farming Settlement Faces Extinction Over Sand Mining Kano Power Struggle Heats Up as Yusuf Reappears Without Kwankwaso Allies Kano Online Media Chapel Hosts AI-Focused Capacity Workshop for Digital Journalists The commissioner urged online media practitioners to uphold ethical standards, professionalism, accuracy and integrity in news gathering and dissemination, stressing that online journalism must be clearly distinguished from unregulated social media activity. “Online journalists are not the same as social media users. Digital journalism must be guided by legal and ethical decorum, not sensationalism or the rush for quick breaking news,” Waiya said. He noted that the rapid growth of digital platforms, coupled with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, has made continuous self-development and professionalism imperative for journalists seeking credibility at local, national and global levels. Waiya also acknowledged the role of the Kano State Council of the NUJ in supporting the establishment and growth of the Online Media Chapel, attributing the successes recorded so far to cooperation and unity within the union. He further disclosed that the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs is advocating for the establishment of a state Freedom of Information law in line with the federal Freedom of Information Act, as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and press freedom in the state. In his remarks, the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, Kano State, Malam Usman Bello, said the government approved the retreat outside Kano State in recognition of the growing importance of online journalism. He explained that similar engagements had previously been organised for the Correspondents’ Chapel, adding that the retreat was aimed at equipping online journalists with the skills required to adapt to new trends in the profession and practice in line with modern global best practices. Bello noted that the impact of online media transcends state boundaries, stressing that capacity-building programmes of this nature would help shape journalism practice not only in Kano State but across the country. Also speaking, the Chairman of the Kano Online Media Chapel thanked the Kano State Government and the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs for their support, describing the retreat as timely and impactful. He urged members of the chapel to continue operating within the laid-down ethical guidelines of the journalism profession and in line with the social and legal provisions of Kano State. The retreat drew participants from various online media organisations operating across Kano State. The retreat was attended by editors and publishers of various online newspapers operating in Kano State.

Abuja, Kano, News, Politics

Ganduje Rallies Kano APC Members for Strategic E-Registration Push

/

By Umar Idris Shuaibu The Kano State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for massive mobilisation of members to strengthen the ongoing e-registration exercise, describing it as a strategic move to secure victory in the next general elections. The call was made on Tuesday at the end of a marathon stakeholders’ meeting held in Kano. Speaking at the meeting, the immediate past National Chairman of the APC and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, stressed that the e-registration exercise is critical to building a comprehensive, credible and verifiable membership database capable of enhancing the party’s electoral performance nationwide. Following briefings by the Kano APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, and the state e-registration coordinator, Shafi’u Darma, the meeting resolved that all party members must ensure they are registered and actively encourage others to do so, especially given the party’s strong grassroots presence across the state. Read Also: Abba Yusuf’s Calculated Defection Leaves Old Loyalists Politically Exposed Kano Power Struggle Heats Up as Yusuf Reappears Without Kwankwaso Allies Group Backs Adamu Abdu Fanda for Kano Deputy Governorship, Cites Experience, Competence Stakeholders noted that accurate and comprehensive registration would further consolidate the APC’s political structure, expand voter outreach and maximise its chances in forthcoming elections, building on over one and a half decades of loyalty and organisational influence in Kano. Members were also urged to remain united and rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The meeting, chaired by Ganduje, was attended by several APC leaders, including the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin; Senator Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila (Kano South); Hon. Kabir Abubakar Bichi; Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa; Prince Abdullahi Abbas; Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna; and Hon. Murtala Sule Garo, the party’s gubernatorial and deputy gubernatorial candidates in the 2023 elections. Others in attendance included Ministers of State Yusuf Abdullahi Ata (Housing Development) and Dr. Mariya Mahmud Bunkure (Federal Capital Territory); former Deputy Governor and former Minister of Housing Development, Alhaji Abdullahi Tijjani Muhammad Gwarzo; party elder, Alhaji Nasiru Aliko Koki; Managing Director of the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, Engr. Rabi’u Sulaiman Bichi; Director-General of the National Productivity Centre, Hon. Baffa Babban Dan’Agundi; Arch. Aminu Dabo; Bashir Maisango, deputy state secretary; Abdullahi Mahmud Gaya; Hon. Ma’aruf Maiwake; Hon. Nasiru Aminu Bala Ja’oji; and Comrade Muhammad Garba.

Scroll to Top