The Historica Nigeria

Author name: Umar Idris Shuaibu

Education, Kano, News

Kano’s Strong Showing in 2025 NECO Results Attributed to Ganduje-Era Investments — Kiru

A former Kano State Commissioner of Education and now Director of Training and Programmes at the Progressive Institute (TPI), Abuja, Hon. Muhammad Sanusi Kiru, has congratulated students of the state for their outstanding performance in the recently released 2025 National Examinations Council (NECO) results, where Kano emerged top in English and Mathematics. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Kiru described the feat as a “remarkable achievement” but stressed that it should be viewed within the broader context of long-term educational development in the state. He argued that the success of Kano students was not the product of short-term interventions but rather the outcome of foundational investments in the education sector during the administration of former Governor Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje between 2015 and 2023. Read Also: APC Chieftain Urges Kano Govt to Allow Court Decide N6.5bn Diversion Case “The excellence exhibited by Kano State students reflects the outcomes of years of concerted efforts in strengthening basic and secondary education. The robust grounding provided during the Ganduje era — through improvements in infrastructure, teacher capacity building, and support systems — laid the necessary bedrock for these students to attain such heights,” Kiru stated. He cautioned against attributing the achievement solely to the current administration, noting that educational milestones of such magnitude are typically the culmination of long-term strategies and sustained investment. Kiru further applauded the students, educators, and parents for their roles in the success, adding that the accomplishment should serve as motivation to continue strengthening the education system in Kano for the benefit of future generations.

Health, Humanitarian, National, News

FG Approves 7MW Solarization to Cut AKTH’s N200m Monthly Power Bill

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting health institutions and other establishments across the country to enhance public service delivery. Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Hon. Uche Nnaji, stated this on Wednesday during the foundation-laying and handing over ceremony of a 7-megawatt solar energy project at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH). Nnaji explained that the initiative, spearheaded by the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), was part of efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to provide sustainable power solutions for tertiary health facilities. Related: FG Launches Neonatal Care Programme at AKTH to Support Vulnerable Families Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriation, Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi, disclosed that the project followed consultations with the hospital’s management over its rising energy costs, which he said exceeded N200 million monthly. He noted that after deliberations with his colleagues in the Senate, they presented the proposal to President Tinubu, who approved the inclusion of the project in the 2025 budget. “The solarization project in AKTH will provide up to 7 megawatts. In addition, Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital will get 2 megawatts, while Kano State Nasarawa Teaching Hospital will benefit from 1 megawatt. This is in recognition of Kano’s large population,” Bichi said. He further revealed that the Federal Government had also earmarked N26 billion for the hospital to procure modern medical equipment, including facilities for accident and emergency care, heart surgery, stroke management, radiology, transplants, and family medicine. Read Also:   “This is the first of its kind in the history of the hospital. It is not about politics; it is about national development. President Tinubu’s love for all regions of Nigeria is reflected in these interventions,” he added. Chairman of the AKTH Board, Chief Augustine Chukwu Umahi, described the project as historic, stressing that energy and healthcare are inseparable. On his part, the Chief Medical Director of AKTH, Professor Abdurrahman Abba Sheshe, expressed gratitude to Hon. Bichi and other stakeholders for their support, pledging to continue transforming the hospital into one of the best in the country. The N12 billion solar project is expected to be completed within its designated timeframe.

Health, Humanitarian, Kano

FG Launches Neonatal Care Programme at AKTH to Support Vulnerable Families

The Federal Government has introduced a neonatal care programme at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), designed to improve healthcare access for newborns, particularly those from low-income and vulnerable households. The initiative, implemented under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), will provide promotive, preventive, and emergency healthcare for children from birth to age five. Speaking at the launch, the NHIA Director of Informal Sector Department, Dr. Salahuddeen Sikiru, said the programme will cover critical neonatal conditions, including prematurity, birth asphyxia, sepsis, jaundice, and sickle cell complications. Related: Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Launches Free Emergency Ambulance System He explained that beneficiaries would be required to present their National Identification Number (NIN) for verification, while the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at AKTH will submit weekly lists of patients to NHIA for reimbursement. According to Dr. Sikiru, the scheme, which commenced recently, will run until 2027 and is expected to reduce the financial burden on families in need of urgent neonatal care. The intervention forms part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises improved healthcare delivery and access for Nigerians.

News, Politics, Rivers

Tinubu Ends Six-Month Emergency Rule in Rivers State

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the end of the state of emergency imposed on Rivers State, six months after its proclamation. The president declared the cessation of the emergency in a national broadcast on Tuesday, stating that democratic governance would resume in the state effective midnight, September 17, 2025. Tinubu had, on March 18, 2025, invoked Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to impose emergency rule, citing a total breakdown of governance marked by a protracted standoff between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly. He said the crisis had crippled governance, obstructed budget presentation, and led to vandalism of critical economic assets, including oil pipelines. Read Also: Wike to Flag Off 12 Road Projects, Commission Two, and Launch “Light Up Abuja” Programme The emergency proclamation suspended the offices of the governor, deputy governor, and members of the State Assembly for an initial six months. While acknowledging dissenting voices and over 40 court cases filed against the proclamation, Tinubu maintained that his action was necessary to prevent anarchy and restore order. He noted that the Supreme Court had also affirmed the absence of functional governance in Rivers State at the time. “I am happy today that, from the intelligence available to me, there is a groundswell of a new spirit of understanding, a robust readiness, and potent enthusiasm on the part of all the stakeholders in Rivers State for an immediate return to democratic governance,” the president said. With the expiration of the six-month suspension, Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and Speaker Martins Amaewhule alongside other lawmakers are expected to return to their offices on September 18, 2025. Tinubu thanked the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and the people of Rivers State for supporting the federal government during the period of emergency rule. He urged political leaders across the country to prioritize peace and order to deliver democratic dividends. Nigerian Tracker

Education, National, News

NECO Releases 2025 SSCE Results, 60% Pass with Five Credits Including English, Maths

The National Examination Council (NECO) has released the results of the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), with over 60 percent of candidates meeting the benchmark for university admission. Announcing the results at the Council’s headquarters in Minna, Niger State, on Wednesday, NECO Registrar, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, said 818,492 candidates, representing 60.26 percent, obtained five credits and above, including English and Mathematics. Read Also: WAEC Extends Registration Deadline for 2025 CB-WASSCE Private Candidates He added that 1,144,496 candidates, representing 84.26 percent, secured five credits and above irrespective of English and Mathematics. A total of 1,367,210 candidates registered for the examination, comprising 685,514 males and 681,696 females. Out of this figure, 1,358,339 candidates sat for the examination, with 680,292 males and 678,047 females. The results position the 2025 NECO SSCE performance as a slight improvement over previous years, reinforcing the examination body’s role in setting educational standards nationwide.

Feature, National

A Farewell to a Legendary Leader: Air Vice Marshal Terry Okorodudu

It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to an exceptional individual, Air Vice Marshal Terry Okorodudu. His passing leaves an unfillable void in our lives, but his legacy of excellence, leadership, and service will continue to inspire us. We remember Air Vice Marshal Okorodudu as a steadfast mentor, a guiding light who selflessly offered wisdom, support, and guidance whenever needed. His impact on our lives and careers is immeasurable. Read Also: FCT Minister of State Mourns Passing of Head of Service Grace Adayilo As we mourn the loss of this great man, we take comfort in the knowledge that his life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and commitment to the highest standards. His contributions to the Nigerian Air Force and the nation as a whole will never be forgotten. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, loved ones, and colleagues. May God grant them the strength and comfort they need during this difficult time. Rest in perfect peace, dear Air Vice Marshal Okorodudu. Your memory will be a blessing to us all. Farewell, sir! Sincerely, Engr. Khalil Sagir Koki On behalf of Forte GCC Innovative Solutions Limited

News, Sport

Champions League: Arsenal, Real Madrid Secure Wins as Juventus, Dortmund Share Eight-Goal Thriller

It was a dramatic round of UEFA Champions League fixtures on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 16–17, with Arsenal and Real Madrid picking up crucial victories while Juventus and Borussia Dortmund played out a pulsating 4-4 draw. Arsenal continued their strong campaign with a 2-0 away win over Athletic Bilbao, keeping them in firm contention for top spot in their group. Union Saint-Gilloise pulled off one of the shocks of the night, beating Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven 3-1 to boost their chances of qualification. In Lisbon, Qarabag FK stunned Benfica with a late equaliser in a thrilling 3-3 draw, leaving Group C wide open. The clash of the night came in Turin, where Juventus and Borussia Dortmund produced an eight-goal classic, ending 4-4. The result leaves both teams neck-and-neck in their group standings, though Dortmund remain slightly ahead on goal difference. Read Also: FCT Minister Bunkure Urges Easter Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria’s Peace, Unity On Wednesday, September 17, Real Madrid edged Marseille 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu to maintain their lead at the top of Group F. In London, Tottenham Hotspur claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Villarreal, pushing them into second place in their group and keeping their knockout stage hopes alive. Group Standings (after Matchday results): – Arsenal’s win keeps them level on points with Union Saint-Gilloise, both battling for top spot. – Real Madrid sit comfortably at the summit of their group, with Marseille slipping further behind. – Juventus and Dortmund remain locked in a fight for qualification, with little separating them. – Tottenham’s victory lifts them above Villarreal in the race for the second qualifying position. The results have set up an exciting final stretch in the group stage, with several groups still wide open and qualification hanging in the balance.

Abuja, National, News

Photos: Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Holiday in France

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday evening returned to Abuja after spending part of his annual holiday in France. On arrival, he was received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, and other senior government officials. Read Also: FCT Minister Bunkure Urges Easter Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria’s Peace, Unity Photos:

Abuja, News

FCT Minister Bunkure Urges Easter Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria’s Peace, Unity

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, has urged Christian pilgrims embarking on the 2025 Easter pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan to focus on prayer, spiritual growth, and support for Nigeria’s peace and development. Dr. Bunkure made the call during the pre-departure orientation programme for intending pilgrims, where she described pilgrimage as a spiritually enriching journey that offers immeasurable blessings. She acknowledged the recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which caused delays in the pilgrimage exercise, but reassured participants of the FCT Administration’s commitment to their welfare under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike. Read Also: Wike to Flag Off 12 Road Projects, Commission Two, and Launch “Light Up Abuja” Programme The Minister also commended the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) for its coordination of pilgrimages nationwide and pledged continued cooperation between the FCT Administration and the Commission to ensure successful spiritual journeys. In her remarks, the Director of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Gloria Dandam, reminded the pilgrims that the trip is more than a tour of historical landmarks, describing it as a sacred journey of renewal, reflection, and redemption. “You will have the opportunity to seek God’s blessings and pray for peace in our homes, our country, and the world,” she told the pilgrims, urging them to encourage one another throughout the journey.

Abuja, National, News

Wike to Flag Off 12 Road Projects, Commission Two, and Launch “Light Up Abuja” Programme

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, will on Thursday, September 18, 2025, flag off 12 new road projects, commission two completed ones, and inaugurate the “Light Up Abuja” initiative aimed at improving infrastructure and security in the capital city. According to a statement signed by Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the programme will run from September 18 to October 16, 2025, covering roads and solar lighting projects across major districts and expressways in the Federal Capital City (FCC). As part of the activities, the minister will commission access roads in Sector Centre B, Dakibiyu District, as well as the newly constructed Roads ILS 11 (Esther Bali Street) and MAR 24 (Kez Udezue Street) in Mabushi District. The Light Up Abuja project will deliver integrated solar-powered street lighting across Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, Central Business District (CBD), Airport Expressway, Katampe, Garki I and II, Mabushi, Gudu, Jabi, and Katampe Extension. Read Also: FCT Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Paediatric Surgical Care The road projects set for flag-off include the full development of Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II, construction of Northern Parkway from Ring Road II to Ring Road III, and provision of access roads to key sites such as the Mabushi Bus Terminal and the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates project site in Karsana West. Other projects include bypass access to the Airport Second Runway with a four-span bridge, access road to the FCT Fire Service Station with erosion control measures in Kaura District, and several bridges and transit connections within the Central Area, Wuse, Asokoro, Guzape, Katampe, and other districts. In addition, the minister will oversee the rehabilitation of the 15-kilometre Old Keffi Road, from Kado Village to Dei-Dei Junction, and the construction of residences for the heads of federal courts, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Chief Judge of the FCT, and President of the National Industrial Court. The announcement comes on the heels of recent flag-offs by Wike, including the expansion of water supply to Bwari and Karu satellite towns, the construction of a multi-purpose sports centre in Kafe District, a new Magistrate Court complex in Jabi, and the emergency reconstruction of Karu Road, which was expanded to cover adjoining critical routes. The FCT Administration said the projects reflect its commitment to accelerating infrastructure development, improving mobility, and enhancing the living standards of residents across Abuja.

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