The Historica Nigeria

Author name: The Historica Nigeria

Africa, National, News

US Announces Partial Visa Ban on Nigeria, 18 Other Countries

The United States will partially suspend the issuance of certain categories of visas to Nigerian nationals from January 1, 2026, following a new presidential proclamation on border and national security. The US Mission in Nigeria announced on Monday that the restriction will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time in line with Presidential Proclamation 10998, titled “Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States.” According to the statement, Nigeria is among 19 countries affected by the measure. Others listed include Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The proclamation provides for a partial suspension of visa issuance covering nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas, as well as F, M, and J student and exchange visitor visas. It also applies to certain immigrant visas, with limited exceptions. The US Mission clarified that the suspension does not apply to all categories of travellers. Exemptions include immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran, dual nationals applying with passports from countries not affected by the suspension, and Special Immigrant Visas for eligible US government employees. Other exempted categories include lawful permanent residents of the United States and participants in selected major international sporting events. Read Also: Africa Can Secure Its Energy Destiny, Says NNPC Boss Ojulari Tinubu Presents N58.47trn 2026 Budget to National Assembly FG Declares Three-Day Public Holiday for Christmas and New Year Celebrations The US government stressed that the proclamation applies only to foreign nationals who are outside the United States on the effective date and who do not hold a valid US visa as of January 1, 2026. “Foreign nationals, even those outside the United States, who hold valid visas as of the effective date are not subject to Presidential Proclamation 10998. No visas issued before January 1, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. EST, have been or will be revoked pursuant to the Proclamation,” the statement read. Visa applicants from affected countries may continue to submit applications and attend interviews. However, the US Mission noted that such applicants “may be ineligible for visa issuance or admission to the United States” under the new rules. The development comes amid a series of restrictive measures by the United States that have heightened concerns among Nigerians seeking to travel, study, or migrate to the country. In October, Washington added Nigeria back to its list of countries accused of violating religious freedom, citing persistent insecurity and attacks on Christian communities. This was followed by Nigeria’s inclusion on a revised US travel ban list, imposing partial entry restrictions on Nigerian nationals. Earlier this year, the US government also reduced the validity of most nonimmigrant visas issued to Nigerians to single-entry visas with a three-month duration. More recently, reports indicated that applications for certain immigrant visas, including green cards, could face suspension under the new proclamation. US authorities, however, have clarified that lawful permanent residents and holders of valid visas issued before January 1, 2026, are exempt and will not have their status revoked. (Punch)

Kano, News

KASSOSA Announces Date to Host 2025 AGM in Kano

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The Kano Science Schools Old Students Association (KASSOSA), National Body, has announced Thursday, December 25, 2025, as the date for its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM). In a statement issued by the KASSOSA National Body and made available to The Historica Nigeria on Monday, the association disclosed that the meeting will hold at the Convocation Arena, Bayero University, Kano New Campus, with proceedings scheduled to begin promptly at 10:00 a.m. According to the statement, the AGM will provide a platform for members to review the association’s activities, deliberate on key issues affecting the body, and adopt resolutions aimed at strengthening its growth and impact. The National President, through the statement, urged members across the country to attend the meeting, noting that the AGM remains a critical decision-making forum of the association. Read Also: Why Science College Dawakin Kudu Remains a Pride of Kano’s Educational Heritage Ganduje Foundation Backs BIKOBA Alumni as Jigawa Govt Leads Birnin Kudu College Renovation Birnin Kudu: An Ancient Settlement With a Modern National Footprint KASSOSA, an umbrella body of old students of Kano State science secondary schools, has remained committed to educational advancement, alumni engagement, and community development, guided by its philosophy, “Through Science, We Shall Serve.” The statement reiterated the importance of full participation and encouraged members to attend in large numbers to contribute to discussions that will shape the association’s future direction.

Kano, News

Kano Governor, ACF Praise Retired Justice Aboki at Book Launch

Eminent Nigerians have described retired Supreme Court Judge, Hon. Justice Abdu Aboki, as an incorruptible, God-fearing, and patriotic Nigerian who has dedicated his life to the service of the nation. This was conveyed in a statement signed by Abdullahi Datti Abdullahi, Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Relations, Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), and made available to ‘The Historica Nigeria’ on Monday. The book launch ceremony, titled Compendium of Selected Articles on Cybercrime Law and Digital Evidence with Related Legal Instruments, took place over the weekend at the Auditorium, Centre of Excellence, Bayero University, Kano. While launching the book in honour of Justice Aboki, Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf recalled Aboki’s integrity, dedication to service, and impartiality during his tenure as a Supreme Court Judge. Governor Yusuf, represented by the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, SAN, stated that the compendium provides practical guidance for judges, prosecutors, investigators, legal practitioners, policymakers, and students of law. The Governor reiterated Kano State Government’s commitment to strengthening the administration of justice and aligning itself with national policy objectives and international best practices in cyber governance. “Through relevant authorities and institutions, including the Kano State Information Development Agency (KASIPDA), the State has adopted data protection and cybersecurity measures consistent with the Nigerian data protection regime, emphasizing responsible handling, digital safety, and public awareness,” he stressed. In a keynote address, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, described Justice Aboki as “a patriotic Nigerian who has made a significant mark in the development of law, economy, and social progress.” Legal luminary Ahmed Raji, SAN, lauded Justice Aboki as “a distinguished jurist and one of the most humble judicial officers I have ever met.” Meanwhile, the book reviewer, Professor M. L. Ahmadu, noted that “the book is a clear demonstration of what foresight, planning, and scholarly legal contribution can achieve in honouring a distinguished personality.” Related: Kano Judiciary Gets New Acting Chief Registrar, Approves 30 Shari’a Court Judges Kano JSC Suspends Registrar, Warns Judge Over Misconduct ICPC Grills Former Director Over Alleged Irregular Contract Appointment at FCCPC Earlier, Vice Chancellor of Bayero University Kano, Professor Haruna Musa, welcomed guests, describing the publication as a timely testament to the university’s contribution to legal scholarship. “We look forward to its impact on law, policy, and academia,” Prof. Musa added. Justice Aboki, who is also the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of ADUSTECH Wudil, expressed gratitude to the authors of the compendium, led by Prof. Nasiru Adamu Aliyu, and to all invited guests who honoured him at the event. Other dignitaries at the occasion included Prof. Auwalu Hamisu Yadudu, Sheikh Ibrahim Khaleel, Hon. Adamu Aliyu, Vice Chancellor of ADUSTECH Wudil Prof. Musa Tukur Yakasai, members of the governing councils of ADUSTECH and Bayero University, and Dallatun Kano, Alhaji Bashir.

Kano, News

Yuletide: CP Bakori Meets Commanders, Orders Intensified Patrols

The Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, has concluded comprehensive security arrangements for the Christmas and New Year celebrations, assuring residents of adequate security across the state. This was conveyed in a statement signed and issued today by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, ANIPR, MNISMA, FNACSP, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, and made available to ‘The Historica Nigeria’. According to the statement, the security measures are in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, mandating all police commands nationwide to deploy sufficient personnel and operational assets to ensure a safe, peaceful and crime-free festive period. The statement disclosed that CP Bakori, on Monday, December 22, 2025, met with operational commanders, including Heads of Departments, Area, Squadron and Tactical Commanders, as well as Divisional Police Officers, where he ordered intensified patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations and confidence-building engagements throughout the festive season. It added that the Kano State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has put in place robust security arrangements to safeguard lives and property before, during and after the celebrations. Read Also: FG Declares Three-Day Public Holiday for Christmas and New Year Celebrations Ganduje Graces Historic Installation of Seyi Tinubu in Oyo Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Southern Kaduna The Commissioner of Police further directed all operational commanders to ensure adequate security at worship centres and recreational facilities, conduct round-the-clock visibility patrols, maintain effective traffic control for smooth vehicular movement, and widen intelligence-gathering channels ahead of and during the festivities. As part of proactive measures, the Command also issued security advisories to the public, urging residents to remain vigilant, avoid suspicious objects, and promptly report any suspicious persons, movements or items to the nearest police station or through designated emergency lines. The police cautioned against reckless driving, car racing and over-speeding, noting that underaged children and unlicensed persons are prohibited from operating vehicles, tricycles or motorcycles. Unauthorized horse riding and the use of fireworks were also declared strictly prohibited. Parents and guardians were advised to closely monitor and accompany their children when going out to prevent cases of missing children, accidents or unsolicited engagements, while individuals and groups were warned to desist from any act capable of breaching public peace or disrupting law and order. CP Bakori commended the people of Kano State for their continued support and cooperation with security agencies and encouraged them to sustain the collaboration by reporting security-related concerns through the Command’s emergency contact numbers: 08032419754, 08123821575 and 09029292926. He reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration across the state.

National, News

FG Declares Three-Day Public Holiday for Christmas and New Year Celebrations

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25; Friday, December 26; and Thursday, January 1, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani. In the statement, the minister extended festive greetings to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to all Nigerians, urging them to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ. Dr. Tunji-Ojo noted that these values remain critical to fostering national unity, tolerance and social harmony, particularly as the nation continues efforts towards peace and development. Read Also: Ganduje Graces Historic Installation of Seyi Tinubu in Oyo He encouraged Nigerians to use the festive season to pray for the continued peace, security and progress of the country, while supporting government initiatives aimed at strengthening social cohesion and national development. “The Christmas season and the New Year present an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity, show compassion to one another and renew our collective commitment to nation-building,” he said. The minister also advised citizens to celebrate responsibly by obeying the law, remaining security-conscious and cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful holiday period. He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Ibadan, National, News

Ganduje Graces Historic Installation of Seyi Tinubu in Oyo

By Umar Idris Shuaibu The ancient town of Oyo came alive on Sunday as the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, attended the installation of Seyi Tinubu as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade. The colourful ceremony, held at the Alaafin’s Palace in Oyo town, drew national attention, with Ganduje’s presence underscoring the political and cultural significance of the historic event. Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was installed alongside former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdul’Aziz Yari, who was conferred with the title of Obaloyin of Yorubaland. Dr. Ganduje arrived in Oyo amid rich cultural pageantry, joining other dignitaries at the historic palace where elaborate traditional rites were performed. His attendance further highlighted his continued relevance in national political and cultural engagements. Read Also: Alaafin to Install Seyi Tinubu as Okanlomo of Yorubaland APC Unveils Schedule for Nationwide Congresses, National Convention Tinubu Presents N58.47trn 2026 Budget to National Assembly Since Saturday, Oyo town had witnessed a steady influx of guests ahead of the installation of high-ranking chiefs by the Alaafin, transforming the ancient city into a hub of political, cultural and traditional convergence. The ceremony featured vibrant Yoruba cultural displays, traditional music and performances, turning the palace into a theatre of history, heritage and contemporary leadership. Observers described the installation as symbolic, reflecting the intersection of tradition and modern governance, while urging the newly installed title holders to use their positions to promote unity, peace and national cohesion. The presence of Dr. Ganduje at the event was widely noted as a testament to his national outlook and sustained engagement with cultural institutions beyond his home state. The title “Okanlomo of Yorubaland,” which translates to “the beloved child” of the Yoruba people, is said to symbolise custodianship of Yoruba values, unity and cultural heritage.

Katsina, News

CDD empowers Katsina journalists on fact-checking, ethical reporting

By Abbas Bamalli The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) West Africa has empowered 40 journalists in Katsina as part of efforts to strengthen media professionalism and promote ethical reporting. The effort was realised through a two-day capacity-building workshop held in Katsina, designed to strengthen their roles in preventing information manipulation and promoting accurate, responsible public communication. The CDD Training Coordinator, Mrs Chioma Valerie, explained that the programme was designed to equip journalists with the skills needed to counter misinformation and manage information responsibly. She noted that a key outcome of the workshop was the development of a corps of journalists capable of contributing to a stable and peaceful society through ethical and accurate reporting. Read Also: Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Southern Kaduna Kano State Polytechnic Takes Step Toward University-Affiliated PGD Programmes Why Science College Dawakin Kudu Remains a Pride of Kano’s Educational Heritage Participants engaged in interactive discussions on strategies for promoting ethical journalism and strengthening public trust in media content. The sessions explored the concept, purpose and importance of fact-checking, clearly distinguishing it from verification and highlighting how both processes support credible reporting. The training also addressed the dangers of publishing unverified information, exposing journalists to the potential consequences of misinformation. Participants were introduced to reputable fact-checking organisations and initiatives, as well as practical methods for assessing source credibility and cross-checking information. Further sessions focused on verifying images, videos and documents using digital tools and open-source intelligence (OSINT). Journalists were trained to identify common red flags in misinformation, such as emotional language, false urgency and the absence of clear attribution. A key trainer at the workshop emphasised the responsibility of media practitioners to actively combat information manipulation. Participants were encouraged to verify information before publication, promote media literacy among audiences, use accurate and factual headlines, provide context for complex issues and collaborate with credible institutions. The workshop concluded with discussions on best practices in responsible journalism, equipping participants with practical tools to enhance the quality, accuracy and credibility of media reporting in Nigeria.

Kaduna, News, Religious

Madrasatil Wiqayatul Islam Graduates 17 Qur’anic Reciters

By Sulaiman Alkasim, Kano The Madrasatil Wiqayatul Islam popularly know as Makarantar Malam Babba graduates 17 students, whom completed the recitation of the Holy Qur’an, among which 4 where male while 13 female today. The Islamic School was established by the late Sheikh Kasim Isah (Malam Babba) for about 70 years ago, where it began as Tsangaya and later on transformed into Islamic School. Wiqayatul Islam graduated many students including the prominent personalities within and outside Zaria, and it also served as one among the first Islamic School across Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Read Also: Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Southern Kaduna Why Science College Dawakin Kudu Remains a Pride of Kano’s Educational Heritage Madrasatu Ansarul Islamiyya Graduates 24 Quranic Memorizers in Kano The school is now under the leadership of Malam Mustapha Kasim the Sarkin Malaman Marmara who took over after the demise of Sheikh Kasim Isah in the year 2006. Among the dignitaries whom blessed the occasion were Hon. Sheikh Jameel Abubakar Albani the Executive Chairman of Sabon Gari Local Government Kaduna State and his Vice Hon. Kamilu Abdulkareem, Hon. Aminu Yunusa (Mainan Marmara), Alh. Abdulmumin Azan among others.

Feature, Kaduna, Profile

Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Kaduna

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano Lere Local Government Area, located in Kaduna State, stands as one of the most historically significant Fulani-founded settlements in Northern Nigeria. With its roots deeply embedded in pre-colonial West African history, Lere represents a convergence of migration, scholarship, jihad-era politics, and resilient traditional institutions. Geographically positioned at latitude 10°39′ North and longitude 8°57′ East, Lere serves as the headquarters of the Lere Emirate, while Saminaka functions as the administrative headquarters of the local government. Covering about 2,634 square kilometres, the LGA shares boundaries with Kauru and Kubau LGAs in Kaduna State, Doguwa LGA in Kano State, Toro LGA in Bauchi State, and Bassa LGA in Plateau State. Population figures place Lere among the most populous LGAs in Northern Kaduna. While the 2006 census recorded around 338,740 residents, projections by the National Population Commission and National Bureau of Statistics estimated the population at over 458,000 by 2016, reflecting steady growth driven by agriculture, trade, and migration.   Climate, Economy and Social Life Lere experiences a tropical wet-and-dry savannah climate, characterised by a long dry season and moderate rainfall. Annual temperatures average about 27.8°C, making the area suitable for farming, livestock rearing, and small-scale commercial activities. The local economy is largely agrarian, complemented by livestock production and vibrant local markets. Read Also: Birnin Kudu: An Ancient Settlement With a Modern National Footprint Why Science College Dawakin Kudu Remains a Pride of Kano’s Educational Heritage Kano State Polytechnic Takes Step Toward University-Affiliated PGD Programmes The local government area is subdivided into eleven wards, including Lere, Saminaka, Kudaru, Lazuru, Kayarda, Dan Alhaji, Garu Mariri, Sabon Birni, Abadawa, Raminkura and Gure-Kahugu. These districts reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of the area.   A Mosaic of Peoples and Languages Lere is home to numerous ethno-linguistic groups such as Amawa, Kurama, Hausa, Fulani, Gure-Kahu and Igbo communities, making the area a true mosaic of cultures in Northern Kaduna. Among these communities, the Fulani of Lere town often referred to as the Fulani Wunti, occupy a central place in the area’s historical narrative.   Fulani Origins and the Founding of Lere Oral traditions and historical accounts trace the ancestry of Lere’s Fulani founders to the ancient Takrur region of present-day Mauritania and Senegambia. From there, they migrated through Futa Toro and the Senegal River Valley before settling in Timbuktu, where they played notable roles in Islamic scholarship and governance during the Songhai Empire. Following the Moroccan invasion of Songhai in 1591, members of the Torodbe Fulani lineage dispersed across the Sahel, eventually moving into present-day Niger, Burkina Faso, and Northern Nigeria. By the late 18th century, this lineage under the leadership of Malam Muhammadu Dabo Titi, had established a strong presence in the Bauchi–Zaria area. The name “Lere” itself is believed to derive either from a Fulbe term meaning “a permanent settlement” or from the name of a daughter of Muhammadu Dabo Titi, reflecting both cultural symbolism and oral tradition. Jihad Era and the Birth of the Lere Emirate During the Sokoto Jihad led by Shehu Usman Dan Fodio in the early 19th century, Malam Muhammadu Dabo Titi supported Malam Yakubu, the first Emir of Bauchi. Political disagreements later prompted Dabo Titi to seek allegiance under Zazzau (present-day Zaria), leading to the formal establishment of Lere as a vassal state in 1808. Lere’s territory once extended across parts of present-day Bauchi, Plateau, and Kano states, and the emirate held a unique status among Zazzau’s vassal states, symbolised by its right to possess multiple royal drums, an emblem of authority and prestige.   Colonial Disruption and Traditional Resilience British colonial administration in the early 20th century dismantled the vassalage system, reducing Lere to district status and fracturing its territorial reach. Despite this, its traditional leadership survived through hereditary heads and local governance structures. Lere’s institution underwent significant restoration from the late 20th century. In 1986, the area’s district headship was restored to its original Fulani lineage. Later, in 2001, the traditional stool was upgraded to a Third Class Chiefdom and was further elevated to Second Class status in 2007. Following the death of Emir Umaru Mohammed in 2011, Brigadier General Abubakar Garba Mohammed (retd), a former military governor of Sokoto State, was installed as the 13th Emir of Lere, reinforcing the area’s traditional and cultural prominence.   Leadership and Political Representation Lere continues to play an important role in both local and national politics. It is represented at the federal level in the House of Representatives by Hon. Munir Ahmed Mohammed, who advocates for the interests of the area in Nigeria’s national legislature. At the state level, Munira Sulaiman Taninu serves as the House of Assembly Member representing Lere, bringing grassroots perspectives into the Kaduna State Assembly. These leaders are part of a growing generation of elected officials working to ensure that Lere’s voice is heard in legislative and developmental arenas.   Lere Today Today, Lere stands as a symbol of historical continuity, cultural diversity and political participation in northern Nigeria. Urban growth in areas like Saminaka, expanding healthcare facilities, and diverse economic activities reflect a community that honours its heritage while embracing modern aspirations. Notable personalities from Lere include former federal lawmaker Saudatu Sani and local government chairman Honourable Jafaru Ahmad, among others who have contributed to public service and community leadership. Lere’s story is not merely that of a town or a local government, it is a living chronicle of migration, faith, leadership and resilience spanning centuries of West African history.

National, News, Politics

APC Unveils Schedule for Nationwide Congresses, National Convention

Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released a comprehensive timetable for its 2025/2026 nationwide ward, local government, state and zonal congresses, culminating in the party’s national convention. The schedule was made public on Saturday by the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle. According to the timetable signed by Basiru, the activities are being conducted in line with the provisions of Articles 11 and 17 of the APC Constitution and are aimed at electing party officials at all levels across the country. The process will commence with membership e-registration, scheduled to begin on Monday, December 1, 2025, and end on January 30, 2026. This will be followed by the issuance of notices of congresses to state chapters and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on February 2, 2026. Related: Tinubu Presides Over APC National Caucus Meeting in Abuja One-Party State Allegations Baseless, APC Governors Tell Nigerians Ex-Kano LG Chairmen Endorse Tinubu, Align With Ganduje’s Leadership in APC Purchase and submission of forms for ward and local government area (LGA) congresses are slated for February 4 to February 9, 2026, while screening committees for the ward and LGA positions will be inaugurated on February 10. Screening of aspirants will take place between February 11 and February 13. Ward congresses are scheduled for Wednesday, February 18, 2026, with appeals arising from the congresses to be heard on February 19. LGA congresses, including the election of three delegates one of whom must be female to the national convention, will hold on February 20, while appeals are fixed for February 21. At the state level, the purchase of forms for state executive positions will take place from February 23 to February 27, 2026. Screening and appeals for state executives are slated for late February and early March, while state congresses will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Appeals from the state congresses will be entertained between March 9 and March 11. The timetable further shows that purchase and submission of forms for zonal congresses and the national convention will run from March 12 to March 17, 2026. Zonal congress committees will be inaugurated on March 18, followed by screening of aspirants on March 19 and 20. Zonal congresses across the six geopolitical zones are scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026, with appeals arising from the exercise to be heard on March 23. The designated zonal offices are Ibadan for the South West, Enugu for the South East, Rivers/Cross River for the South South, Kaduna for the North West, Gombe/Bauchi for the North East, and Nasarawa for the North Central. The timetable indicates that the APC National Convention will take place from Wednesday, March 25, to Saturday, March 28, 2026.

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