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After Nomination, Garo Pledges Loyalty to Gov Yusuf, Seeks Party Unity

After Nomination, Garo Pledges Loyalty to Gov Yusuf, Seeks Party Unity

APC Ex-Councillors Back Garo’s Nomination, Commend Gov Yusuf

APC Ex-Councillors Back Garo’s Nomination, Commend Gov Yusuf

Ranchers Bees Return to NPFL After 16-Year Absence

Ranchers Bees Return to NPFL After 16-Year Absence

2027 Elections: PDP Faction Opens Sale of Forms, Female Aspirants Get Waiver

2027 Elections: PDP Faction Opens Sale of Forms, Female Aspirants Get Waiver

Tinubu Points to Past Errors in Power Sector as Blackouts Persist

Tinubu Points to Past Errors in Power Sector as Blackouts Persist

Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, Dies at 50

Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, Dies at 50

Coup Plot Case: Families, Lawyers Finally Reach Detained Officers

Coup Plot Case: Families, Lawyers Finally Reach Detained Officers

ASUP ABCOAD Chapter Elects New Executives, Pledges Stronger Unionism

ASUP ABCOAD Chapter Elects New Executives, Pledges Stronger Unionism

Pro-Democracy Group Endorses Garo, Urges Unity Ahead of Confirmation

Pro-Democracy Group Endorses Garo, Urges Unity Ahead of Confirmation

Tinubu Reshuffles Education Agencies, Appoints Adelabu, Salako, Others

Author name: Umar Idris Shuaibu

News, Religious

Muslims Asked to Look Out for Ramadan Crescent from Tuesday – Sultan

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The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of the Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Muslims across Nigeria to begin the search for the crescent moon from Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to mark the commencement of Ramadan 1447 A.H. According to a statement issued by the Council’s Secretary-General, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the start of fasting will depend on the outcome of the moon sighting. The Council explained that if the crescent moon is sighted on Tuesday, Ramadan fasting will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Read Also: At 50 Years, Murtala’s Legacy Still Outpaces Many Governments Ganduje Commissions Mosque, Islamiyya School in Kano Saif al-Islam Gaddafi Buried in Bani Walid as Libya Marks the End of Political Era However, if the moon is not sighted, the fasting period will commence on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The NSCIA, while addressing broader concerns, also highlighted challenges faced by Muslims in the country, including rising Islamophobic sentiments, insecurity, and perceived bias in media coverage. Furthermore, the Council criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the scheduling of elections during the Ramadan period, noting that the development would be closely monitored and reviewed. While urging Muslims to remain steadfast, the Council encouraged the faithful to use the holy month for reflection, repentance, and prayers for peace, unity, and national development, reiterating that with hardship comes ease.

Kano, National, News

Murtala Still Inspires 50 Years After – Bauchi Deputy Gov, Ogomudia

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Eminent Nigerians on Monday converged at Bayero University Kano (BUK) as Rundunar Kishin Kano, in collaboration with the institution, hosted a Golden Memorial Symposium in honour of late Head of State, Murtala Ramat Muhammad. The event, which drew political leaders, military veterans, academics, and family members, served as a platform to reflect on the enduring legacy of the late General, widely regarded as a symbol of discipline, patriotism, and purposeful leadership. Representing Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, the Deputy Governor, Muhammad Auwal Jatau, described Murtala as a leader whose policies reshaped governance and strengthened national cohesion. He noted that Bauchi State was among the states created during Murtala’s administration, a move he said laid a solid foundation for economic and administrative development. Read Also: At 50 Years, Murtala’s Legacy Still Outpaces Many Governments “We are gathered not just to remember him, but to transmit his ideals of fairness, courage, and service to future generations,” he said. In his remarks, Chairman of the occasion and former Chief of Army Staff, Alexander Ogomudia, said the passage of time has only reinforced the significance of Murtala’s leadership. He described the late Head of State as a decisive reformer whose short tenure left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s governance structure. According to him, Murtala’s zero-tolerance for corruption and bold policy decisions earned him admiration across Nigeria and the African continent. Delivering his address, the Chief Host, Major General Ibrahim Sani (rtd), said the symposium was organised to remind Nigerians particularly the younger generation of the values that defined Murtala’s leadership. He stressed the need for the country to “resuscitate” visionary leadership, warning that sustainable national progress requires commitment to clear ideals and national purpose. Family members of the late leader also shared personal reflections, offering deeper insight into his character and upbringing. Alhaji Umar Wali, his elder brother, described Murtala as a man of conviction, humility, and deep sense of responsibility, urging Nigerians, especially residents of Kano, to emulate his virtues. Similarly, Hajiya Balaraba Ramat, who authored a book on his life, reaffirmed his Kano origin, dismissing contrary claims, and called for sustained efforts to preserve his legacy through education and public discourse. Guest speaker, Tajuddeen Alabede, National Coordinator of the Network for Democracy and Development, challenged current leaders to prioritise impact over tenure, noting that Murtala’s influence continues to resonate decades after his demise. He cautioned that leaders would ultimately be remembered for either their contributions or shortcomings, urging them to embrace patriotism and selfless service. A representative of the Dutse Emirate, Alhaji Adamu Aliyu Kiyawa, emphasised the importance of teaching history to younger generations, describing Murtala as a leader whose integrity and faith shaped his approach to governance. The symposium also featured the unveiling of a book authored by Hajiya Balaraba Yakubu Muhammad, alongside awards presented to individuals recognised for their contributions to society. Late Murtala Ramat Muhammad, who was assassinated in 1976 at the age of 38, is remembered for initiating key reforms, including the process of relocating Nigeria’s capital from Lagos to Abuja, and remains one of the most revered figures in the nation’s political history.

Abuja, National, News

Lawmakers Return Tuesday as Electoral Reform Bill Gains Momentum

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The National Assembly is set to resume plenary sessions on Tuesday, February 17, amid strong indications that the long-anticipated Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 may be considered for passage. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, notified lawmakers that both chambers would reconvene at 11:00 a.m., urging full attendance in view of critical national deliberations. “The Senate and the House of Representatives will reconvene plenary sessions at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 17th February 2026,” the statement read, adding that “both Chambers are expected to deliberate and take crucial decisions during the session.” Although the official agenda was not explicitly stated, developments suggest that lawmakers may prioritise consideration of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, widely regarded as key to preparations for the 2027 general elections. A separate notice from the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo, indicated that the directive followed instructions from the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. Read Also: Tinubu Hails Argungu Festival, Promises Support For Agriculture “All Distinguished Senators are kindly requested to note and reschedule their engagements accordingly to enable them attend, as very crucial decisions will be taken on national issues during the session,” the notice stated. Similarly, the House of Representatives confirmed its resumption through its spokesman, Akin Rotimi, noting that the emergency sitting was necessitated by the recent release of the 2027 general election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission. According to the House, the session will focus on legislative matters arising from the announcement, citing the constitutional importance of timely intervention by lawmakers. “The House of Representatives will reconvene for an emergency sitting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to review matters arising from the recent announcement of the 2027 General Election timetable,” the statement noted, stressing that deliberations would align with its constitutional responsibilities. Originally, the Senate had scheduled its resumption for February 24 after a short recess for oversight on the 2026 budget, while the House planned to return on February 17. However, the coordinated resumption underscores the urgency of addressing electoral reforms ahead of the next electoral cycle. Reports further indicate that the conference committee on the Electoral Act Amendment Bill may convene on Monday to harmonise positions from both chambers. Earlier, Senate President Akpabio disclosed that the National Assembly was working within a tight timeframe to transmit the harmonised bill to Bola Tinubu for assent. He reiterated that lawmakers are committed to concluding work on the legislation promptly to allow sufficient time for presidential consideration before the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

National, News

El-Rufai Raises Alarm Over Alleged Import Of Dangerous Chemical By NSA Office

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Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to clarify reports alleging that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) procured a highly toxic substance known as thallium sulphate. This was conveyed in a letter titled “Request for Clarification on the Procurement of Thallium Sulphate,” in which El-Rufai raised concerns over the reported importation of approximately 10 kilograms of the chemical from a supplier in Poland. In the letter, the former governor said he was seeking clarification as a concerned citizen, stressing the need for transparency, public safety, and accountability. According to him, given the highly toxic nature of thallium salts and their strict regulation globally, it is imperative to ascertain key details surrounding the alleged procurement. El-Rufai outlined several areas requiring clarification, including the intended purpose and end-use of the substance, the identity of the supplier, and whether due regulatory permits were obtained. Read Also: Dadiyata: Ganduje Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claim as Baseless, Politically Motivated He also requested information on the quantity and concentration of the chemical, storage and security arrangements, as well as regulatory oversight involving agencies such as NAFDAC, NCDC, and other relevant public health and environmental bodies. Furthermore, he called for disclosure on whether any public health risk assessments or hazard mitigation measures had been put in place, considering the extreme toxicity of the substance. El-Rufai emphasised that his inquiry was made in good faith, noting that public confidence in national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are addressed transparently. The development follows recent tensions between the former governor and the NSA, particularly after El-Rufai alleged that Nuhu Ribadu orchestrated an attempt to have him arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Speaking during an interview on ARISE Television, El-Rufai claimed that the directive was revealed through a source who allegedly intercepted Ribadu’s phone communication. He further alleged that government agencies routinely monitor calls without court orders, asserting that similar methods were used to obtain the information. The former governor, who has repeatedly accused the current administration of political persecution, has also pledged to honour an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Monday following a summons issued while he was abroad. He reiterated his readiness to cooperate with the commission, maintaining his stance on the issues raised.

Business, Kano

Kano Market Fire Destroys N5bn Goods, Claims Seven Lives

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More than 1,000 businesses have been affected, while properties worth over N5 billion were destroyed following a devastating fire outbreak at Singer Market in Kano State. Report says that the Chairman of Singer Market, Junaid Zakari, disclosed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Kano. Zakari described the incident as one of the worst tragedies in the history of the market, noting that four residential buildings housing small-scale businesses were completely razed. “This is one of the worst tragedies in the history of Singer Market. Four residential buildings housing small-scale businesses were completely razed,” he said. Read Also: Early Morning Fire Ravages Singer Market, Traders Count Losses He added that goods, equipment, and other valuables were entirely burnt, crippling the livelihoods of hundreds of families. Zakari further revealed that seven persons had died as of the time of filing this report, while investigations were ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding their deaths. “Seven persons have died as of now. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding their deaths,” he added. He noted that emergency responders and security agencies were working to ascertain the cause of the inferno. The market chairman stressed the urgent need for intervention and support to enable affected traders resuscitate their businesses and livelihoods. “This is a tragedy that will not be forgotten in the history of this market. We urgently need support to help traders get back on their feet,” Zakari stated. He, however, commended the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, for visiting the scene while the fire was still raging, describing the move as a demonstration of leadership and empathy. “The governor’s swift response shows concern and solidarity with the victims,” he added. Authorities are yet to officially determine the cause of the fire as affected traders continued efforts to salvage what remained of their goods. Stakeholders reiterated the need for urgent assistance and coordinated support to cushion the impact of the disaster and restore economic activities in the market.

News, Sport

NPFL: Barau FC Edges Kun Khalifat, Moves to 11th on League Table

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Barau Football Club defeated Kun Khalifat FC 1-0 in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 26 on Saturday, completing a home-and-away double over the newly promoted side this season. The match, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, saw the Maliya Boys keep their hopes alive in the league. New signing Joseph Atule scored in the 75th minute from Sugau Aliyu’s precise crossing, marking his first goal for Barau FC this season. The first half ended goalless, reflecting the competitive nature of the encounter, with both sides showing determination and skill. Following the vital three points, Barau FC moved up to 11th position on the NPFL table with 33 points from 25 matches, with one outstanding fixture against Rivers United. Read Also: Barau FC Strengthens Partnership with Ex-Kano Players to Boost Sports Development In a post-match interview, Barau FC coach Eugene Agagbe thanked Almighty God for the victory and expressed optimism about the club’s performance and prospects for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, striker Joseph Atule was voted Man of the Match by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, for his decisive goal. Barau FC XI vs Kun Khalifat FC, Chisom Chiaha (GK), Orji Kalu, Bismark Duah, Sugau Aliyu, Jimmy Ambrose, Hillary Ekawu, Usman Maidubji (C), Sunday Antony, Uche Moses, Henry Ezeonye, Muhammad Umar. Substitutes: Emeka Nwabulu (GK), Nura Ibrahim, Moses Tsehuan, Joseph Atule, Nana Abraham, Ibrahim Yunusa, Emmanuel Okoko, Amah Chibundu. Substitutions: 39’ – Joseph Atule replaces Uche Moses; 73’ – Kabir Abdullahi and Amah Chibundu replace Hillary Ekawu and Henry Ezeonye; 86’ – Nura Ibrahim replaces Usman Maidubji. Unused Substitutes: Emeka Nwabulu (GK), Moses Tsehuan, Emmanuel Okoko, Nana Abraham, Ibrahim Yunusa Sulaiman. Barau FC will now focus on Matchday 27, traveling to face Warri Wolves in Ozoro, and also to face the rescheduled Matchday 25 fixture against Rivers United in Port Harcourt. Signed: Ahmad Hamisu Gwale Director of Media, Barau Football Club 14/02/2026

Humanitarian, Kano, News

Ganduje Applauds Dan’amu, Cites Tinubu’s Impact

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By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has commended Dr. Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu for his humanitarian gesture in supporting 501 orphaned families ahead of the 2027 Ramadan period in Kano Municipal. Speaking at the empowerment programme organised under the Dr. Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu Youth Coalition for Tinubu 2027, Ganduje described Dan’amu as a “good Samaritan” who demonstrated competence and dedication during his tenure as Commissioner for Finance in Kano State. He noted that the initiative was timely, particularly as Muslims prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, urging beneficiaries to offer prayers for the sponsor in appreciation of the gesture. Furthermore, Ganduje called on Kano residents to continue supporting the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, while also reaffirming the need for sustained backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general elections. He expressed satisfaction with ongoing developments in Kano, citing improvements in security and governance, and welcomed the political realignment in the state. Ganduje also recalled previous engagements with the sponsor, noting that Dan’amu had earlier demonstrated political commitment through initiatives such as hosting a colloquium in Kano prior to the 2023 elections. Read Also: Ganduje Commissions Mosque, Islamiyya School in Kano Dadiyata: Sani Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claim Against Ganduje Dadiyata: Ganduje Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claim as Baseless, Politically Motivated According to him, the empowerment programme reflects the ripple effect of federal appointments and interventions under the Tinubu administration, which he said continue to impact lives across Kano State. In a related development, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, stated that the initiative aligns with the state government’s efforts to support vulnerable groups. He recalled that the state government had previously earmarked significant resources for similar interventions, stressing the need for more individuals to emulate such humanitarian efforts. Waiya further expressed optimism that the state’s political realignment would yield positive outcomes for Kano and its people. Also speaking, the Director General of the National Productivity Centre and Chairman of the Northwest Tinubu Support Groups, Baffa Babba Dan Agundi, commended the sponsor for his commitment to grassroots development, reiterating his support for initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the people. Earlier, the sponsor of the programme, Dr. Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu, explained that the initiative was part of his continuous efforts to support vulnerable communities, particularly during Ramadan. He disclosed that beneficiaries were carefully selected across 13 wards in Kano Municipal and other local government areas, in collaboration with ward heads and community leaders to ensure that the most vulnerable individuals were reached. Dan’amu revealed that the intervention included the distribution of food items such as rice, spaghetti, and cooking oil to ease the burden on beneficiaries during the fasting period. He added that additional allocations were made to APC structures, including party leaders and women groups, to further extend support to grassroots communities. According to him, the initiative is rooted in Islamic teachings, which emphasise care for orphans and the less privileged, as enshrined in the Qur’an and Hadith. He further disclosed that the programme would also serve as a platform to sensitise residents ahead of upcoming political engagements, while highlighting ongoing federal projects in Kano as evidence of the Tinubu administration’s commitment to the state. Meanwhile, the APC Chairman in Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, commended the sponsor for his foresight and generosity, urging political office holders and appointees to emulate such people-oriented initiatives. He emphasised that the party would continue to recognise individuals who contribute meaningfully to community development, noting that such efforts would be considered in future political opportunities. The empowerment programme was attended by several dignitaries, including the Managing Director of the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), Engr. Rabi’u Sulaiman Bichi; former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi; party leaders from Kano Municipal, and other stakeholders. In the end, stakeholders reiterated the importance of sustained humanitarian efforts and political collaboration in improving the welfare of citizens, particularly at the grassroots level. Photo News:

Education, Kano, News

Kano Polytechnic Gets New Chairman as Yusuf Removes Galadima

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Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has relieved Engr. Buba Galadima of his position as Chairman of the Governing Council of Kano State Polytechnic. This was conveyed in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Director General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, on Saturday. The governor subsequently approved the appointment of the Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, as the new Chairman of the Governing Council of the institution. Read Also: Tinubu Hails Argungu Festival, Promises Support For Agriculture Kano State Polytechnic Takes Step Toward University-Affiliated PGD Programmes FG Set to End HND–Degree Divide, Empowers Polytechnics to Award Degrees The decision to relieve Galadima, according to the statement, is part of ongoing restructuring efforts aimed at aligning the institution with the administration’s Kano First Agenda. Although the Governing Council’s tenure is officially three years, the chairman’s appointment was terminated before expiration to facilitate reforms targeted at optimal performance of the Polytechnic. Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to Galadima for his services to the institution during his tenure. He urged the newly appointed chairman to deploy his experience, leadership, and commitment in repositioning Kano State Polytechnic for greater academic and administrative excellence.

Kebbi, National, News

Tinubu Hails Argungu Festival, Promises Support For Agriculture

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival as a strong indication of restored stability and normalcy in Kebbi State and across Nigeria. This was conveyed in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Speaking at the grand finale of the festival in Argungu on Saturday, the President pledged sustained Federal Government support for tourism, agriculture, food security, and rural development. He commended the Kebbi State Government for successfully organising the historic cultural event, which attracted over 50,000 fishermen from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries. “Congratulations. Well done. Very good show. Remarkable history. This festival has endured for 83 years and stands as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and peaceful coexistence among our people,” Tinubu said. The President lauded the security arrangements that ensured a safe and successful event, noting that such socio-cultural gatherings thrive only in a peaceful and secure environment. Read Also: FG Launches FarmerMoni Programme, 22,000 Farmers to Benefit According to him, the relative peace being experienced in Kebbi and other parts of the country is a result of sustained investment in security, intelligence gathering, and community engagement. He assured Nigerians that the fight against insecurity, including banditry and insurgency, would be decisively won, enabling farmers, fishermen, and traders to carry out their activities without fear. Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting farmers and rural communities, noting Kebbi State’s strategic role in advancing food security and agrarian development. Highlighting the importance of culture in national unity, he said the Argungu Festival continues to promote friendship, healthy competition, and Nigeria’s rich heritage on the global stage. Before attending the festival, the President commissioned several infrastructure projects in Birnin Kebbi, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Secretariat Complex, a new modern motor park, a three-lane dual carriageway, Kauran Gwandu College of Nursing and Midwifery Sciences, Ambursa, and the dualised Old Argungu By-Pass Road. In his remarks, Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, appreciated the President for honouring the state with his presence and reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustaining the festival as a platform for cultural preservation, tourism development, and economic growth. He outlined key achievements of his administration, including infrastructure expansion, healthcare improvements with over 1,800 health workers recruited, and the rehabilitation of hospitals and primary healthcare centres. The governor also highlighted agricultural interventions such as the free distribution of fertilisers, improved seedlings, and farm inputs to farmers, as well as improvements in civil service welfare and education. The Emir of Argungu, Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, expressed delight over the return of the festival after nearly six years, describing it as a symbol of courage, unity, and reconciliation. He commended the President’s Renewed Hope agenda, citing initiatives in healthcare, education, and infrastructure as key drivers of national development. Meanwhile, Abubakar Usman from Maiyama Local Government Area emerged winner of the fishing competition with a 59kg catch, winning N1 million and two cars, while other contestants received cash prizes, vehicles, and additional rewards.

Kano, News

Fresh Fire Outbreak Hits Singa Market

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A fresh fire outbreak has razed parts of Singa Market in Kano, destroying goods estimated to be worth millions of naira and leaving traders in distress. The inferno, which reportedly engulfed Gidan Gilas popularly known as “Gidan Mai” affected a provision store where flames and thick plumes of smoke were seen rising into the sky, attracting scores of traders and residents who rushed to the scene in a desperate attempt to salvage goods. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the fire spread rapidly to adjoining structures, heightening tension within the densely populated commercial hub as shop owners struggled to prevent further losses. As of the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire outbreak remains unknown, with no official confirmation on what triggered the incident. Officials of the Kano State Fire Service were promptly deployed to the scene and initially battled the blaze with a fire truck. However, efforts were temporarily hampered after the water supply was exhausted, necessitating reinforcement. Read Also: Ganduje Commissions Mosque, Islamiyya School in Kano A second fire truck was later dispatched to sustain the firefighting operation, while a private water tanker from Aspira Nigeria Limited also joined in efforts to contain the inferno. Despite these interventions, traders and residents expressed growing concern over the adequacy of emergency response resources, calling for additional water tankers to fully extinguish the fire and prevent further devastation. The latest incident comes barely weeks after a similar fire outbreak at the same market caused extensive destruction, compounding the economic hardship faced by traders and raising fresh concerns over recurring fire disasters in the area.

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