The Historica Nigeria

Author name: Umar Idris Shuaibu

Kwara, National, News

Ex-Military Governor and Founder of DSS, General Abdullahi Mohammed, is Dead

Former Chief of Staff to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, Major General Abdullahi Adangba Mohammed, is dead. The retired military officer passed away at the age of 86 at his Kaduna residence on Wednesday morning. Fondly known as Adangba, the Ilorin-born officer served as Military Governor of the old Benue-Plateau State between 1975 and February 1976 during the regime of General Murtala Mohammed. Read Also: Ganduje Visits Takai, Bandirawo Families on Condolence in Kano He was the founder of the defunct National Security Organization (NSO), which later became the Department of State Services (DSS), serving from 1976 to 1979. Known for his brilliance and discipline, General Abdullahi Mohammed also served as Chief of Staff to Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from 1999 to 2008. He was National Security Adviser (NSA) to General Abdusalami Abubakar from 1998 to 1999, playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s transition to democracy. Colonel Abdul Mohammed, as he was then known, was also among the architects of the coup that overthrew General Yakubu Gowon’s government. His death marks the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most experienced and strategic military minds.

Feature, Kano

The Unsung Voices: Reflections on the Life of Casual Media Workers

Media’s mighty voice, brings to our door News and Views. Holding leaders accountable, shaping public opinion, and exposing the truth. Entertaining, educating, and inspiring minds. There comes the casual media worker, with a life of uncertainty. No rights! No benefits!! Trapped in a cycle of fear. Crowded media space, competition swell, proprietors struggling to make ends meet, profits dwindle in a saturated beat. Government journalists, a noble guest, chasing governance with a story to nest, uncovering truth with journalistic love. Roams and roves, day and night balancing truth with official might. Translates policies for the people to know and care. Exposing wrongs in governance sight. Read Also: The Power of Innuendo: Inside Dan’uwa Rano’s “Letter of Malam Imalu” and the Role of Subtle Truth in Journalism Irregular stipend trikle, forced to engage in unethical conduct propelling shame and indignity. The reporter moves on to survive. “Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning how to dance in the rain,” says a writer, Vivian Greene. Contemporaries elsewhere dine in honey’s buttered bread, but with unsteady mind depending on how goodies came. Characterized by teamwork, other players in the media must be carried along. Watchmen scan the night with vigilance in endless, sleepless ways. Cleaners tidy up people’s mess with no one thinking about the pain and shame, with dignity tattered like a shirt. Drivers navigate through the bustling road to fetch colleagues to assignments sometimes with heap of risks. Convergence of other comrades — engineers, technicians, on-air personalities, producers, librarians, recordists, gardeners, and administrative staff — playing their respective roles make the media to flourish. Of course, CEO, the big boy, always giraffes to put things on track. Casual media workers wait, with hopeful eyes, for Governor Yusuf’s golden surprise. A gesture of kindness, a heart of gold, bringing happiness to stories untold. Their patience wears a gentle face as they await a brighter place — a leader’s touch, a people’s cheer, a moment’s joy that wipes away decades of pain. In Governor Yusuf’s heart, they place their trust, their hopes, their quiet space — a people-focused heart that beats with care. It’s true that happiness is contagious and when you share, it surely comes back to you. Governor Yusuf’s heart is gold — 4,000 families, stories told, BESDA teachers, joy abounds, happiness shared with happy sounds. Not too many in numbers, casual media workers, the unsung heroes. A society’s pulse in their skilled hands, a glimpse of truth they bravely provide. In Kano State, a story’s spun — of hope and promise for everyone. Governor Yusuf’s name, in hearts is kept. Happiness is a feeling that’s hard to fake. Leaders rise, putting smiles in people’s faces day by day. A precarious life for the casual workers! No voice to raise!! No union to join!!! Aiiyaaah!! Media casual comrades stuck in dilemma! Is it the irregular stipend, or the indignified collection?? Not to worry, Almighty Allah fixes all worries. I Love You All. Yours Comradely, Abbas Ibrahim

Kano, National

Kano Police Command Partners Climate Advocate To Promote Environmental Sustainability

The Kano State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action as it hosted renowned climate advocate and founder of the Emergency Action on Climate Change Initiative, Mr. Edidiong Etefia, on Tuesday in Kano. Mr. Etefia, who is on a solo bicycle tour across Nigeria to raise awareness about climate change, was warmly received at the Bompai Police Headquarters by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Department of Operations, DCP Lawal Mani, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, sfipma, mnim, mnips, masis. During the visit, the climate advocate symbolically planted a tree within the Command’s premises to promote environmental consciousness and encourage green policing practices. Read Also: 29 Police Officers Decorated With New Ranks in Kano In his remarks, Mr. Etefia said his nationwide cycling tour aims to inspire communities to engage in collective climate action, promote sustainability, and foster stronger partnerships in addressing environmental challenges. Responding, DCP Lawal Mani commended Mr. Etefia for his initiative and reiterated the Kano State Police Command’s support for the campaign. He noted that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has already keyed into the Nigeria Police Green Initiative, designed to integrate environmentally friendly innovations into policing operations. He said the initiative reflects the Force’s growing awareness of the link between environmental stability and national security, stressing that climate change mitigation efforts must complement peace and security strategies. The Command reaffirmed its readiness to continue supporting climate-focused programmes, partnerships, and innovations that contribute to a safer and more sustainable environment.

Kano, News

Ganduje Visits Takai, Bandirawo Families on Condolence in Kano

The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, alongside his wife, Professor Hafsat Umar Ganduje, has paid a condolence visit to Malam Salihu Sagir Takai, former governorship candidate of Kano State, over the death of his wife, Hajiya Zainab, who passed away recently in Egypt. Dr. Ganduje and his entourage also visited Hajiya Usaina, sister to Malam Salisu Bandirawo, at their family residence in Wuro-Bogga, along Ring Road, Kano, to commiserate with the family over their recent bereavement. Read Also: Inside Ganduje’s Political Blueprint That Keeps Strengthening APC Nationwide During the visits, Dr. Ganduje offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased, asking Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings and grant them eternal rest in Aljannah Firdausi. He was accompanied by the former Deputy Governorship candidate of the state, His Excellency Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, the APC Chairman of Kano State, Prince Abdullahi Abbas, Architect Aminu Dabo, the Kano APC Women Leader, Hajiya Fatima Dala, among several other notable personalities.    

National, News

DSS Sacks 115 Officers in Major Reform to Boost Professionalism

The Department of State Services (DSS) has dismissed 115 personnel as part of its ongoing internal reforms aimed at improving professionalism, accountability, and efficiency within the agency. In a statement released on Tuesday via its official social media handles and website, the secret police confirmed that the move was part of a broader effort to strengthen discipline and ensure the integrity of the Service. “As part of the ongoing reforms in the Department of State Services (DSS), the public is hereby informed that a total of 115 personnel have been dismissed over a period,” the statement read. Read Also: Navy Chief Abbas Reshuffles 65 Senior Officers in Strategic Leadership Overhaul Tinubu Strengthens Kano Ties With Appointment of Salihu Sagir Takai Tinubu Approves Appointment of Five New Permanent Secretaries The DSS also cautioned members of the public against dealing with any of the dismissed officers who may still be posing as serving personnel. “In addition to earlier disclaimers on the duo of Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, the Service finds it necessary to warn citizens about the fraudulent activities of some of these individuals still posing as DSS personnel. Members of the public are therefore advised to refrain from engaging in any official dealings with these dismissed officers,” it added. The agency further stated that the names of the affected personnel have been published on its official website for public reference. The DSS, also known as the State Security Service (SSS), operates under the Office of the Inspector General of Police. Its core responsibilities include protecting Nigeria’s internal security, preventing and detecting crimes, safeguarding sensitive information, and countering threats such as terrorism, espionage, and economic sabotage. The Service also provides protection for key government officials and facilities, as well as visiting dignitaries, while offering intelligence and security advice to the government.

Kano, News, Politics

Tinubu Strengthens Kano Ties With Appointment of Salihu Sagir Takai

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of Malam Salihu Sagir Takai as Kano State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Agenda has been described as a strategic move to deepen federal presence in Kano and uplift the lives of the state’s impoverished population. Takai, a former gubernatorial candidate under the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP), has held several key public offices, including Local Government Chairman and Commissioner in Kano State. His appointment was reportedly facilitated by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin. Reacting to the development, Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, Director of Finance at Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, commended both Senator Barau and President Tinubu for what he called “a decision that reflects commitment to grassroots development.” Read Also: Meet Rear Admiral Idi Abbas From Kano, Nigeria’s New Chief of Naval Staff “Senator Barau deserves commendation for convincing the President to take action that truly benefits Kano’s poverty-stricken citizens. President Tinubu’s decision to appoint Takai reflects his commitment to inclusive growth and empowerment,” Kwankwaso said in a statement. He praised Senator Barau’s consistency in facilitating federal appointments for Kano indigenes and promoting the state’s interests at the national level. “Barau’s dedication shows he is the right person to lead Kano come 2027,” Kwankwaso added. Describing Takai as a man of integrity, faith, and discipline, Kwankwaso recalled that former Governor Ibrahim Shekarau once endorsed him as ANPP’s sole gubernatorial candidate, adding that “in every office Takai has held, he has served with distinction and left without blemish.” He further expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his foresight, noting that the appointment would strengthen Kano’s political alignment with the federal government. “This appointment will surely endear Kano people to the President and earn him massive support in the next general election,” he said. Kwankwaso, who also serves under a federal appointment, reaffirmed Kano’s loyalty to the Tinubu administration, stating: “We assure President Tinubu that Kano stands firmly behind him. The people will support his re-election in 2027 because of the good he is doing for them.”

Economy, National, News

FG Announces 50 Tax Exemptions, Reliefs for Low-Income Earners, SMEs, Effective January 2026

The Federal Government has unveiled new tax laws offering extensive reliefs and exemptions for low-income earners, middle-class taxpayers, and small businesses, set to take effect from January 1, 2026. The reforms, which include 50 targeted tax exemptions, are part of the administration’s efforts to ease the financial burden on Nigerians and stimulate economic growth. The new laws — the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025 (NTA); Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025 (NTAA); Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025 (NRSEA); and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, 2025 (JRBEA) — aim to create a more transparent, equitable, and growth-driven fiscal system. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, said the reforms would strengthen small businesses, encourage compliance, and increase the purchasing power of citizens. Read Also: Tinubu Approves Appointment of Five New Permanent Secretaries Also confirming the development, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, stated via X (formerly Twitter) that the new regime was designed to support inclusive economic growth and protect vulnerable groups. “From 1 January 2026, the new tax laws will provide many reliefs and exemptions for low-income earners, average taxpayers, and small businesses,” Oyedele wrote. Key Highlights of the 50 Tax Exemptions and Reliefs Personal Income Tax (PAYE) Individuals earning the national minimum wage or less are exempt. Annual gross income up to ₦1.2 million is tax-free. Reduced PAYE rate for those earning ₦20 million annually. Gifts, pensions, gratuities, life insurance, and retirement benefits are exempted. Companies Income Tax Small companies (turnover ≤ ₦100m) will pay zero percent tax. Five-year tax holiday for agricultural businesses. 50% additional deduction for salary increases and wage awards for low-income staff. 50% employment relief for new hires retained for at least three years. Value Added Tax (VAT) Basic food items, education materials, healthcare services, pharmaceutical products, rent, and baby products will attract zero or no VAT. Small companies (with less than ₦100m turnover) are exempt from VAT registration. Diesel, petrol, and solar power equipment are VAT-exempt or suspended. Capital Gains Tax Sale of owner-occupied houses and two private vehicles per year are exempt. Pension funds, charities, and religious institutions (non-commercial) are excluded. Stamp Duties Exemptions for electronic transfers below ₦10,000, salary payments, and government securities transactions. Training for Digital Influencers Oyedele also announced a new initiative to train 20 selected content creators on accurate tax education, saying the programme aims to counter misinformation and promote financial literacy among Nigerians. He urged citizens to nominate credible online influencers educating the public on tax reforms through a nomination form available until November 9, 2025. “Misinformation spreads fast, often to the author’s benefit but to the audience’s loss. Accurate information may travel slower, but it empowers everyone and earns lasting trust,” Oyedele added.

Abuja, National, News

Tinubu Approves Appointment of Five New Permanent Secretaries

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of five new Permanent Secretaries to fill existing vacancies in the Federal Civil Service. The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, disclosed this in a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Eno Olotu, on Monday in Abuja. According to the statement, the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries are Ibrahim Ozi from the Federal Capital Territory, Ezemama Chidiebere from Imo State, Garba Usman representing the North Central Geo-Political Zone, Mohammed Ishiyaku from the North East, and Ukaire Chigbowu from the South East. Read Also: Meet Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Nigeria’s New Chief of Air Staff Walson-Jack said the appointments followed a rigorous and transparent selection process in line with President Tinubu’s commitment to meritocracy and excellence in the public service. She charged the new Permanent Secretaries to bring their wealth of experience and professionalism to bear in the discharge of their duties, in order to strengthen service delivery and support the government’s development objectives. The Head of Service commended President Tinubu for his commitment to transparency, merit-based recruitment, and professionalism in the Federal Civil Service, noting that the appointments reflect the administration’s dedication to building a competent and results-driven public service that meets the needs of Nigerians.

International, News, Politics

Chad Closes Border With Nigeria Over Security Concerns, Cites U.S. Military Movements in West Africa

The Government of Chad has announced the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria, citing heightened security concerns following reports of possible U.S. military movements in the West African region. Military sources in N’Djamena confirmed on Monday that President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno ordered a full military lockdown along the Nigerian frontier after intelligence indicated that armed groups in northern Nigeria were attempting to cross into Chadian territory. According to the sources, the Chadian Armed Forces have been placed on high alert, with troops and armoured vehicles deployed across key border points linking the two countries. Read Also: Navy Chief Abbas Reshuffles 65 Senior Officers in Strategic Leadership Overhaul President Déby, in a statement, vowed that no armed group or foreign military presence would be allowed to enter Chadian territory under any guise, stressing that the move was purely preventive. “The safety and sovereignty of our nation are paramount. No armed group or foreign force will be permitted to enter Chadian territory under any pretext,” he said. The decision comes amid heightened regional tension and growing speculation over the potential redeployment of U.S. troops in parts of West Africa following recent security developments in Niger and Mali. Security analysts say Chad’s move is aimed at safeguarding its territorial integrity and forestalling possible infiltration by terrorist groups exploiting instability in the region. They described the border closure as a precautionary but necessary step, given the fluid security situation in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.

National, News

Navy Chief Abbas Reshuffles 65 Senior Officers in Strategic Leadership Overhaul

The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has approved the redeployment of 65 senior officers of the Nigerian Navy to key positions across the Naval Headquarters, Commands, and Tri-Service institutions, in what officials describe as a major strategic leadership overhaul. The large-scale postings, approved on Thursday, October 30, 2025, reflect the Navy’s renewed drive to strengthen operational efficiency, leadership accountability, and maritime security across Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways. According to a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the redeployment covers logistics, training, operations, engineering, policy formulation, and command duties, marking a holistic restructuring aimed at enhancing institutional performance. Read Also: Nigeria Pushes Blue Economy Agenda with Seabed Mapping, Hydrography Initiatives Nigerian Navy Launches High-Tech Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security Meet Rear Admiral Idi Abbas From Kano, Nigeria’s New Chief of Naval Staff Among the prominent appointments, Rear Admiral Suleiman Abdullahi, formerly of the Defence Headquarters, has been appointed Chief of Logistics at the Naval Headquarters. Rear Admiral Kasim Bushi moves from the Headquarters Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) to the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) as Executive Director, while Rear Admiral Suleiman Dahun, previously at the Naval Headquarters, now serves as Director of Defence Cooperation at Defence Headquarters. Also, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, who previously served at the Naval Headquarters, has been appointed Commandant of the National Defence College. Rear Admiral Musa Katagum is now Chief of Operations at Naval Headquarters, while Rear Admiral Fredrick Damtong becomes Chief of Naval Engineering. Similarly, Rear Admiral Abdul-Rasheed Haruna was appointed Chief of Training, and Rear Admiral Jonathan Mamman is the new Chief of Administration. In the Navy’s corporate and support divisions, Rear Admiral Hamza Ibrahim has been named Group Managing Director, Navy Holdings Limited (NHL), while Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal retains his position as Executive Director, Business Development and Evaluation, at the same institution. Other key postings include Rear Admiral Olatunde Olodude as Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral Abiodun Alade as Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Logistics Command, and Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie as FOC Eastern Naval Command. Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha assumes duty as FOC Western Naval Command, while Rear Admiral Ebiobowei Zipele becomes FOC NAVTRAC. Further appointments include Rear Admiral Mohammed Muye as Commandant, Naval War College Nigeria (NWCN); Rear Admiral Umaru Faruk as Managing Director, Naval Engineering Services Limited; and Rear Admiral Haruna Zego as Managing Director, Nigerian Navy Hotels and Suites Limited. The redeployment also saw Rear Admiral Emmanuel Anakwe posted to the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) as a Moderator, while Rear Admiral Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan was appointed Director, PC4, in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). Vice Admiral Abbas, in a message to the newly appointed officers, congratulated them on their new roles and urged them to uphold professionalism, discipline, and integrity in the discharge of their duties. “The Nigerian Navy under this leadership remains committed to operational excellence and inter-agency collaboration in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain,” Abbas said. The appointments take immediate effect as part of broader efforts to consolidate leadership stability and improve Nigeria’s maritime security operations.

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