The Historica Nigeria

Author name: Umar Idris Shuaibu

Kano, National, News

PSC Appoints DIG, Elevates Kankarofi to CP, 481 Other Senior Officers

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the appointment of Dankwara Mohammed as Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) to represent the North East geopolitical zone. In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the Head of Press and Public Relations of the PSC, Mr. Ikechukwu Ani, said Mohammed was promoted from his previous rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) to replace Mr. Sahabu Yahaya, who had since retired from service. The commission also approved the promotion of Mr. Abibo Reuben from the rank of Commissioner of Police (CP) to Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG). Read Also: FCTA Elevates 49 Deputy Directors After First-Ever CBT Promotion Exam Similarly, 11 Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) were promoted to the rank of CP. They include Naziru Kankarofi, Nendel Gomwalk, Tijani Fatai, Wilson Akpan, Morkwap Dongshal, Abdullateef Yusuf, Cletus Nwadiogbu, Ahmed Bello, Abdulraheem Nurudeen, Patrick Daaor, and Umar Hadejia. In addition, 15 Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) were elevated to the rank of DCP. The new DCPs are David Ojo, Umaru Bichi, Bala Jarumai, Makanjuola Abiodun, Shafii Abdulkarim, Mohammed Ajose, Mukter Bello, Mada Adamu, Omololu Vaughan, Linus Ogbodo, Emmanuel Ogbuanya, Tijani Gotom, Shehu Ibrahim, Dr. Onwuegbuzie Awele, and Hamza Ali. Furthermore, 44 Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) were promoted to ACP, while 412 Superintendents of Police (SPs) were elevated to CSP. The decisions were part of the highlights of the 2nd plenary meeting of the commission, presided over by its chairman, Mr. Hashimu Argungu. Mr. Ani said the PSC Chairman congratulated all the newly promoted officers and urged them to rededicate themselves to diligent and selfless service to the nation.

National, News

Senate Clears Prof. Joash Amupitan for INEC Top Job After Three-Hour Screening

The Senate has confirmed Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). His confirmation followed a rigorous three-hour screening session at the Senate Chamber on Thursday, where lawmakers questioned the nominee extensively on electoral integrity, logistics, and legal independence. After the screening, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, called for a voice vote, and the lawmakers unanimously approved Amupitan’s appointment without opposition. Akpabio urged the new INEC boss to ensure that “votes will count” under his leadership. Read Also: Council of State Approves Prof. Joash Amupitan as New INEC Chairman While responding to questions, Amupitan clarified that he was never a legal counsel to the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 presidential election petition proceedings, from the tribunal to the Supreme Court. He added that all case records were publicly available for verification. He assured the lawmakers that, if confirmed, his administration would prioritize credible elections where “losers will congratulate winners,” emphasizing transparency, logistics efficiency, and voter education as key focus areas. He also mentioned plans to introduce the use of clones to safeguard election materials. Before entering the chamber at 12:50 p.m., the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), moved that Order 12 be set aside to allow strangers into the chamber—a motion seconded by the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South). Senate President Akpabio revealed that Amupitan had been cleared by the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), all confirming that he has no criminal record. President Bola Tinubu had earlier written to the Senate seeking the screening and confirmation of Prof. Amupitan as INEC Chairman, in line with Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The President’s letter read: “In accordance with the provisions of section 154 subsection 1 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, I am pleased to present for confirmation by the Senate the appointment of Professor Joash Amupitan, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, as chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).” Tinubu expressed confidence in Amupitan’s capacity to lead the electoral body and urged the Senate to expedite the confirmation process — a request which the Senate fulfilled with unanimous consent.

Katsina, News

Katsina distributes wheelchairs, learning kits to 500 out-of-school children

The Katsina State Government, on Tuesday, distributed wheelchairs and learning kits to at least 500 out-of-school children in the state. In a speech at the launch of the distribution of the items in Katsina, Gov. Dikko Radda said the gesture aimed towards reducing the out-of-school children, and increasing school enrollment. Radda, represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman-Nasir, said that the event affirmed his administration’s commitment to education and the wellbeing of children in the state. Read Also: NGO promotes inclusive peacebuilding in Katsina via stakeholders’ training He said: “From the outset of this administration, we made it clear that the education of our children will remain a top priority. “We believe that no society can progress without investing in its young people, and no child should be denied access to learning because of poverty or circumstance. “Education and the wellbeing of our children are indeed the main concern of this government. “Today’s event, where 500 pupils are being taken back to school, is part of our ongoing efforts to make education accessible and inclusive.” The governor said that the kits being distributed, which included uniforms, sandals and essential writing materials, are intended to encourage regular school attendance and boost the confidence of the pupils as they return to the classroom. He also said that the Department of Girl Children Education and Child Development in charge of the distribution was also extending support to the school for the blind, through the provision of writing materials, ensuring that education remains truly inclusive in the state. “This initiative builds upon earlier successes recorded by the department, including the enrollment of 1,395 children into formal education in 2024, in collaboration with UNICEF. “These achievements reflect the values of our administration, compassion, inclusion and opportunity for all. “We will continue to invest in policies and programmes that promote learning, protect children and support teachers in delivering quality education,” the governor said. Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Girl Child Education, Hajiya Jamila Abdu-Mani, said the event “marked another milestone in our collective effort to ensure that every child in the state had access to education. “The distribution of the learning materials aims to support the children’s learning journey and ease the financial burden on their families. “We’re also distributing materials to Kasina State School for the Blind, in line with our commitment to inclusive education and equal opportunity for all learners. “This programme builds upon the remarkable progress our department has made in the past year, especially the enrollment of 1,395 out-of-school, achieved due to the political will of Gov. Radda. “Education is the most powerful tool we can give our children to break the cycle of poverty and scale their dignity,” Abdu-Mani said. (NAN)

Feature, Kano

Portrait of Compassion: Hamza Ibrahim Baba Dawakin Tofa, A Man For The People

It is a rare and wonderful thing when a person’s passion, intellect, and character align perfectly with their public duty. In the case of my friend of over two decades, Hamza Ibrahim Baba Dawakin Tofa, this is precisely the case, he is the very definition of a round peg in a round hole. My long-standing friendship with Hamza has afforded me a clear view of the man behind the titles: a man of profound passion and compassion. This is not merely a stated ideal but a principle etched into his every action. His innate empathy for the destitute and vulnerable has been the consistent compass guiding his career. This commitment was powerfully demonstrated during his tenure as Personal Assistant on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to the former Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives. In this role, Hamza faced the immense challenge of stretching limited resources to meet overwhelming need. With remarkable efficiency and sagacity, he developed and implemented transparent, impactful systems to ensure the Speaker’s charitable initiatives and compassionate outreach reached the maximum number of displaced families. He didn’t just distribute aid; he optimized hope. Read Also: ACF’s confused dance: When regional elders choose symbols over solutions Today, that same dedicated spirit is being applied on a broader scale. In his current appointment leading a segment of the Presidential social safety net mechanism, Hamza has not only performed exceptionally but has gone above and beyond his official mandate. He has spearheaded initiatives that directly transform lives at the community level, including: · Providing critical eye surgeries for the elderly and vulnerable, restoring sight and dignity. · Installing sustainable water systems in underserved communities, addressing a fundamental need for health and well-being. · Delivering targeted livelihood support to empower individuals and families, fostering self-reliance. Beyond his public service, Hamza is a man of formidable intellect and relentless drive. He is among the few friends with whom I share a common passion for knowledge and progress. This dedication was spectacularly validated last year when he graduated as the Overall Best Master of Science (MSc) student at the prestigious University of Lagos—a towering achievement that speaks volumes about his discipline and capability. I watch his trajectory with immense pride and anticipation. I am keenly waiting to see him add a PhD to his accolades, and I am confident that his proven blend of compassion, strategic acumen, and intellectual rigor will lead to his deployment to a high position within the echelons of the Federal Government of Nigeria. Hamza Ibrahim Baba Dawakin Tofa is not just a public servant; he is a testament to what dedicated, compassionate, and brilliant leadership can achieve. The nation needs more of his kind. Sincerely, Abdulkarim Suleiman Dambazau Kano, Nigeria.

Education, Kano, News

Northwest University Kano Appoints Professor Aisha Garba Habib as Acting Vice Chancellor

Northwest University Kano has named Professor Aisha Garba Habib as its Acting Vice Chancellor, following the completion of Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa’s five-year tenure. The announcement was made in a statement signed by Abubakar Ibrahim, Head of the Public Relations Unit, on behalf of the University Registrar. The transition was described as “peaceful and historic,” marking the first time a woman has led the institution. “In line with the university’s succession procedure, Professor Aisha Garba Habib, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), assumed leadership in an acting capacity,” the statement said. Read Also: Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Appointed Chancellor of Northwest University, Kano The handover took place during a meeting between Professor Kurawa and the University’s principal officers, where he formally concluded his tenure and signed official handover documents. The statement highlighted that the campus atmosphere was filled with “emotions and celebration” as members of staff, students, and alumni commended Professor Kurawa’s visionary leadership, integrity, and transformative achievements. Among his final official acts was the commissioning of the Hajiya Rabi Aminu Dantata Female Students Common Room, a facility donated by the late philanthropist Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata. The building is described as a significant contribution to student welfare and a testament to the Dantata family’s continued support for education. Professor Kurawa also visited the site of the YUMSUK Microfinance Bank Limited, a CBN-licensed Tier II Non-Interest (Islamic) Microfinance Bank initiated under his leadership to promote financial inclusion within the university community. In a symbolic farewell, members of the university community accompanied him in a procession from his office to his residence — a gesture reflecting, according to the statement, “the profound impact of his leadership and the admiration he earned during his tenure.” “The exit of Professor Kurawa marks the end of a remarkable era in the history of the institution,” the statement concluded. “His legacy of integrity, innovation, and dedication to educational development will continue to inspire future generations.”

Abuja, National, Politics

The silent strategist strengthening APC’s hold in the North

In every political movement, there are figures whose work, though quiet and often unseen, defines the stability and success of their party. One such figure is Alhaji Kabir Ibrahim Masari, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political Matters, and a trusted ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. For over a decade, Masari has been a consistent pillar of strength for the All Progressives Congress (APC) right from the Buhari years to the Tinubu presidency. His influence, particularly across the North-West and the broader northern region, has been instrumental in keeping the party united, focused, and forward-looking. Masari’s political journey is rooted in loyalty, strategy, and service. He was part of the early architects of the APC’s northern structure, working tirelessly during the formative years of the Buhari administration to build bridges among key stakeholders and maintain harmony within the party. Related: Information Minister Predicts APC Takeover of 30 States by 2026 Those who know him describe him as a silent strategist who calm, focused, and unshakably loyal to the ideals of progress and unity. His ability to navigate complex political terrains and mediate between competing interests has earned him respect from party leaders, governors, and grassroots members alike. As Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Political Matters, Masari plays a vital role in ensuring synergy between the Presidency and state governments, particularly in the North-West. He understands the pulse of the region, its political dynamics, aspirations, and expectations from the APC-led federal government. Through strategic engagement, consultation, and quiet diplomacy, he has helped strengthen cooperation between Abuja and the governors of Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kaduna, and Sokoto. This collaboration has allowed for smoother political coordination, better communication, and a stronger sense of shared purpose. Read Also: Even Out of Office, Ganduje Remains the Soul of APC — Party Loyalist His influence extends beyond political structures into real human connections. Masari’s approach is simple but effective: listen to the people, align with their hopes, and build confidence through inclusion. That principle has guided his interventions across the region, including his notable efforts in reconciling aggrieved APC members in Bauchi State, where internal divisions once threatened to weaken the party’s base. Masari’s tactful mediation and genuine engagement with party leaders and factions helped restore unity, rebuild trust, and reposition the APC as a cohesive force ahead of future elections. His success in Bauchi reaffirmed his reputation as one of the party’s most dependable peacebuilders and strategic consensus managers. The recent defection of over 60,000 people in Jigawa State to the APC stands as a clear testament to Masari’s growing political influence. His presence at the event, and his appeal for continued unity and loyalty to the Tinubu administration, were more than ceremonial. They symbolised the renewed momentum of the APC in the North-West. In Masari’s words, Jigawa and other states in the region “will continue to benefit from the Renewed Hope Agenda,” reinforcing the message that development and inclusion remain at the heart of APC’s mission. By ensuring that northern states feel both politically represented and economically included, Masari is laying a solid foundation for President Tinubu’s reelection in 2027. Masari’s political philosophy rests on a simple truth that, the North’s strength lies in its unity. Under his guidance, the APC has deepened its reach into communities once considered politically distant. He has championed the integration of youth groups, traditional leaders, women’s associations, and grassroots political movements into the APC fold by ensuring that every voice is heard and every constituency is represented. Beyond party politics, Masari has continued to preach tolerance, cooperation, and national unity. His diplomacy extends beyond the North, as he often serves as a bridge between northern and southern leaders, reflecting President Tinubu’s belief in an inclusive Nigeria where no region is left behind. While others chase headlines, Masari focuses on results. His coordination efforts have contributed to resolving internal rifts within APC structures in several northern states, encouraging mass defections from opposition parties through persuasive, grassroots-driven engagement. His strategy is also strengthening confidence in the Tinubu administration among northern communities, ensuring that APC’s policy gains translate into political goodwill across the region. Each of these quiet victories adds up to a broader narrative of unity and resilience within the ruling party. President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda depends not only on sound policy but also on political stability. Figures like Kabir Ibrahim Masari ensure that the message of hope, reform, and national development continues to resonate strongly across Nigeria’s political heartland. As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Masari’s role as a stabiliser and mobiliser in the North will become even more critical. His ability to connect the grassroots to the presidency, and to translate federal policies into tangible local benefits, gives APC a unique advantage. Kabir Ibrahim Masari may not be the loudest voice in the room, but his influence is undeniable. Through his strategic wisdom, calm diplomacy, and deep understanding of northern politics, he has helped cement APC’s place as the dominant force in the region. With the North-West and indeed, the entire North rallying behind President Tinubu’s leadership, it is clear that Masari’s quiet strength continues to power the engine of progress, unity, and victory. In politics, as in leadership, some heroes prefer to work behind the scenes. Kabir Ibrahim Masari is one of them, and is steady, loyal, and unrelenting in his commitment to the success of the APC and the future of Nigeria. Danlami Abubakar Maikano is a political affairs commentator. He wrote from Bokkoto Quarters, Dutse, Jigawa state and can be reached via email: danlamimaikano@gmail.com

National, News, Politics

Those Who Criticised Me Are Now in APC – Wike Mocks Defecting PDP Governors

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that the mass defection of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders and state governors to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has vindicated his earlier stance and justified his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways on the Outer Southern Expressway in Abuja. The FCT Minister said some governors who previously accused him of destabilising the PDP and working for the APC are now members of the ruling party, adding that they should commend him for “doing a good job” that eventually paved the way for them. Read Also: Information Minister Predicts APC Takeover of 30 States by 2026 “I have been watching on daily television and social media, people who said I wanted to destabilise the party, that I was working for the APC. All of them are now in the APC. So, if that is true, they should commend me for working for where they are heading. I should be commended for doing a good job for them,” he said. In the past 48 hours, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah resigned from the PDP and joined the APC, citing national development and President Tinubu’s leadership as reasons for his defection. Similarly, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri also announced his defection from the PDP on Wednesday, alongside 19 members of the State House of Assembly. His move makes him the fourth PDP governor to defect ahead of the 2027 general elections, reducing the party’s governorship seats from 11 as of October 2024 to only eight presently. Wike stated that the defecting governors have no reason to complain, as President Tinubu’s “decisive leadership” has provided enough financial resources for states to pay salaries and execute meaningful projects. “Let every state be sincere to their people and to Nigerians. I was a governor for eight years, and sometimes the money that came in was not enough to pay salaries, let alone carry out projects. But today, because of the leadership of somebody—by the decisive leadership of somebody—every state now has money. Banks that governors used to run to are now the ones running after states, saying, ‘Don’t leave us out,’” Wike said. He described his decision to support Tinubu’s administration as a “worthwhile choice,” adding that the current leadership has ended the era of states leaving huge debts for their successors. “So, if for that reason so many people are going to support Mr President, I think it is worthwhile. Now, no governor will talk about leaving debts for his successor, unlike what used to happen before. That is the leadership of somebody. And that’s what this country needs right now—visionary and purposeful leadership that takes bold decisions others once avoided,” he stated.

Abuja, News

FCTA Begins Construction of Outer Southern Expressway to Ease Traffic in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commenced the construction of the main carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway, linking Ring Road I Junction to Ring Road II in Abuja. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who flagged off the project on Wednesday, said the initiative would help ease traffic congestion along the Apo–Wasa road corridor. Describing the road as a “very important project,” Wike noted that its completion would drastically reduce travel time for residents commuting to and from the city centre through the busy axis. Related: Tinubu Has Transformed FCT Within Two Years – Dr. Mariya Bunkure “You will agree with me that this road is very, very important. Before the Apo to Wasa service lane was constructed, it used to take hours for motorists to access the city. It was very horrible, but I thank God we are trying to do all we can to give the people of FCT the happiness they deserve,” he said. The minister attributed the ongoing infrastructural transformation in the FCT to the purposeful leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He explained that through the removal of fuel subsidy, the Tinubu administration had made financial resources available to the 36 states and the FCT to pay workers’ salaries and embark on developmental projects. Read Also: Wike Appoints Acting Head of Service for FCT Administration “If Mr President had not taken that decisive decision to remove fuel subsidy, most states wouldn’t have been able to pay salaries. It would have been difficult even for the FCT. Tinubu’s leadership has made this possible. Every state now has money not only to pay salaries and carry out other government activities but also to embark on projects,” he stated. Wike added that the administration of President Tinubu has shown “good, purposeful, and visionary leadership,” which Nigeria needs to make significant progress. On the planned resettlement of Apo Mechanic dealers and artisans from the road corridor to their permanent site in Wasa, Wike said the plan had reached an advanced stage. He revealed that he had received the cost implications for providing the necessary infrastructure in the new site from the acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). “For us, every promise made by this administration under the leadership of Mr President will be fulfilled. Residents of the FCT should be assured of our commitment,” he added. Also speaking, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a bold step toward easing traffic flow, stimulating economic activities, and enhancing mobility for residents across the FCT. Mahmoud stressed that Tinubu’s leadership style continues to remind Nigerians that progress is achieved not only through policy but also through the visible transformation of lives and communities. (NAN)

National, News, Politics

Information Minister Predicts APC Takeover of 30 States by 2026

Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, said on Wednesday that he expects the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to control 30 of the country’s 36 states by 2026, citing growing interest from opposition governors to join the party. Idris made this known during the 2025 Quarterly Strategy Meeting of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) for commissioners of information from APC-led states, held in Maiduguri, Borno State. The event, themed “FGN–PGF Synergy 2025: One Message, One Future,” focused on strengthening coordination between federal and state governments to ensure unified communication and developmental progress. Read Also: Inflation Cools to 18.02% in September, Driven by Drop in Food Costs “Presently, our party controls 24 states. With more opposition governors showing interest in joining, I can assure you that by 2026 we will have 30 APC-controlled states ahead of the 2027 elections,” Idris stated. The minister credited President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and reform-driven policies for boosting inclusive governance, stabilizing the economy, and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s currency. He also commended Borno State for its resilience amid security and environmental challenges, praising Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and security agencies for their tireless efforts in restoring peace and stability. As part of the meeting’s activities, delegates toured key infrastructure projects, including the Maiduguri Mega Power Plant, Tinubu Mega School, and newly constructed flyovers across the city.

Business, Economy, National, News

Inflation Cools to 18.02% in September, Driven by Drop in Food Costs

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported a decline in Nigeria’s headline inflation, which fell to 18.02% in September 2025 from 20.12% in the previous month. According to the monthly inflation report, the month-on-month headline inflation rate was 0.72%, while food inflation recorded a negative growth of -1.57%, indicating a slight decrease in food prices compared to August 2025. The report highlighted that the food inflation rate dropped by 3.22%, falling from 1.65% in August 2025 to -1.57% in September, contributing significantly to the overall reduction in headline inflation. Read Also: Food Waivers Threaten Northern Agriculture, Says Wali It attributed the decrease to the drop in the average prices of maize (corn) grains, garri, beans, millet, potatoes, onions, eggs, tomatoes, and fresh pepper, among others. The report added that the average annual rate of food inflation for the twelve months ending September 2025 over the previous twelve-month average was 24.06%, which was 13.47% points lower compared with the average annual rate of change recorded in September 2024 (37.53%). “The food inflation rate in September 2025 was 16.87% on a year-on-year basis. This was 20.9% points lower compared to the rate recorded in September 2024 (37.77%). The significant decline in the annual food inflation figure is technically due to the change in the base year,” the report stated. It went on to note that the headline inflation rate eased to 18.02% relative to the August 2025 rate of 20.12%. “Looking at the movement, the September 2025 headline inflation rate showed a decrease of 2.1% compared to August 2025. In addition, on a year-on-year basis, the headline inflation rate was 14.68% lower than the rate recorded in September 2024 (32.70%).” The NBS further explained that the headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) decreased in September 2025 compared to the same month in the preceding year, though with a different base year of November 2009 = 100. However, on a month-on-month basis, the headline inflation rate in September 2025 was 0.72%, which was 0.02% lower than the rate recorded in August 2025 (0.74%). This indicates that in September 2025, the rate of increase in the average price level was lower than that of August 2025.

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