The Historica Nigeria

Author name: Umar Idris Shuaibu

Feature, Kano

Waiya’s Transformative Impact on Kano’s Public Image

Since taking over as the Commissioner for Information in Kano State, Ibrahim Waiya has been on a mission to redefine the way the government interacts with the public. With a background as an activist, Waiya brings a unique perspective to the role. Replacing Baba Halilu Dantiye, Waiya has wasted no time in implementing his vision for a more open and responsive government. His approach has been met with enthusiasm from both government officials and the general public. Read Also: Waiya Urges LG Information Officers to Uphold Professionalism in Public Service One of Waiya’s key strategies has been to foster good working relationships with the media and other stakeholders. He believes that building trust and credibility is essential for effective governance. Under Waiya’s leadership, the Ministry of Information has become more proactive in engaging with the public. The commissioner has made himself available to the press, providing timely and accurate information on government policies and initiatives. Waiya’s experience as an activist has given him a deep understanding of the importance of public relations. He has leveraged this expertise to generate positive publicity for the state, highlighting its achievements and potential. The results of Waiya’s efforts are already becoming apparent. The government’s image has begun to shift, with many Nigerians now viewing Kano State as a hub of progress and innovation. Waiya’s approach is not limited to just spin doctoring; he is committed to ensuring that government policies and programs are people-centered. He believes that effective communication is key to building trust and support for government initiatives. By engaging directly with the public, Waiya has been able to gauge their concerns and feedback. This information is being used to inform policy decisions, making government more responsive to the needs of the people. One of the key challenges facing Waiya is managing the government’s online presence. He has taken steps to revamp the ministry’s social media platforms, ensuring that they are used effectively to engage with the public. Waiya’s team has also been working to improve the government’s crisis communication strategy. By being proactive and transparent, they aim to minimize the impact of any potential crises on the government’s reputation. The commissioner has also been working closely with other government agencies to ensure that their messages are consistent and effective. This coordination has helped to project a unified image of the government. Under Waiya’s leadership, the Ministry of Information has become a hub of creativity and innovation. The commissioner encourages his team to think outside the box and come up with new ideas for engaging with the public. Waiya’s vision for the ministry extends beyond just government publicity. He believes that the ministry should also play a role in promoting Kano State’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. To achieve this, Waiya has been working with local artists, musicians, and other creatives to showcase the state’s unique identity. This initiative has helped to promote a sense of pride and ownership among the people. The dividends of Waiya’s approach are already being felt. The government’s approval ratings have improved, and there is a growing sense of optimism about the state’s future. Waiya’s commitment to transparency and accountability has also helped to build trust between the government and the people. Citizens are now more confident in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises. As a seasoned activist, Waiya is well aware of the power of social media. He has used this knowledge to engage with the public and promote government initiatives. The commissioner’s team has also been working to improve the government’s offline engagement with the public. Town hall meetings and other public forums have been organized to provide citizens with a platform to air their views. Waiya’s leadership style is characterized by his willingness to listen and adapt. He is open to feedback and willing to make changes when necessary. As Kano State looks to the future, it is clear that Ibrahim Waiya’s appointment as Commissioner for Information has been a game-changer. His unique approach and commitment to public relations have set a new standard for government communication in the state. With Waiya at the helm, the prospects for greater Kano look brighter than ever. Umar Liti, is a concerned Kano citizen, and can be reached at umarliti@yahoo.com

National, News, Politics

NNPP Rules Out Kwankwaso’s 2027 Presidential Ambition on Its Platform

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has firmly ruled out the possibility of its 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, contesting on its platform in the 2027 general elections. In a statement issued on Saturday, NNPP National Chairman, Dr. Agbo Major, dismissed recent comments by Buba Galadima suggesting that Kwankwaso remained with the party and intended to run again. Major clarified that both Kwankwaso and Galadima were expelled from the NNPP after the 2023 elections and have no ties to the party. Read Also: A Strategic Swap for National Stability: Why Ganduje Should Be SGF and Akume APC Chairman “Our Memorandum of Understanding with the Kwankwasiya Movement ended shortly after the 2023 presidential election,” Major stated. “Kwankwaso cannot return to NNPP. He created internal conflicts, attempted to hijack the party’s identity, and led us into avoidable legal battles.” He also accused Kwankwaso of substituting the NNPP’s logo with that of the Kwankwasiya Movement during the election, an action that was reversed only after court intervention. Major added that Kwankwaso’s presidential ambition in 2027 is “dead on arrival,” asserting that the former Kano governor does not have the political pedigree to challenge President Bola Tinubu. He stressed that Kwankwaso remains expelled and will not be readmitted, encouraging him to form his own political party rather than trying to ride on the NNPP platform. “NNPP has moved on. Any aspirant for 2027 must emerge through due process and constitutional procedures. We won’t offer another ticket on a platter of gold,” Major reiterated.

Kano, National, Politics

A Strategic Swap for National Stability: Why Ganduje Should Be SGF and Akume APC Chairman

As Nigeria approaches the critical 2027 election cycle, the importance of stability within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and effective governance at the federal level cannot be overstated. In the wake of recent developments especially the resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as APC National Chairman, there is growing conversation around a strategic political realignment that could reinforce national cohesion, strengthen party structure, and improve governmental efficiency. One widely discussed proposal is the idea of swapping roles between the current Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, and Dr. Ganduje, the immediate past APC Chairman and current Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The rationale is rooted in merit, political equity, and national interest. Related: Ganduje Bows Out with Legacy of Political Impact, Party Growth, and National Reach Ganduje’s Technocratic Credentials: A Natural Fit for SGF Dr. Ganduje is far more than a career politician, he is a tested technocrat with rich experience in public administration, civil service, and academia. With a Doctorate in Public Administration and an extensive background in governance, Ganduje’s résumé includes roles such as Deputy Executive Secretary at the Lake Chad Basin Commission and Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport in Kano. As a two-term Governor of Kano State Nigeria’s most populous state, he demonstrated a firm command of infrastructure development, security management, and political organization. Later, as APC National Chairman, Ganduje provided stability to the party during turbulent periods, engineered high-profile defections, and expanded the APC’s national appeal. His proven ability to coordinate, negotiate, and unify makes him an ideal candidate for the office of the SGF, a role central to policy coordination across ministries, departments, and agencies. His administrative depth and political tact would offer the Tinubu administration a more grounded and experienced hand in steering national priorities. Akume’s National Profile Aligns with APC’s Zoning Expectations Senator George Akume, a political heavyweight from Benue State, has contributed immensely to national politics. With experience in both executive and legislative arms, as Governor, Senator, and current SGF, he commands respect across regions. However, as APC seeks to reestablish internal balance, his deployment to the position of National Chairman would serve strategic and reconciliatory purposes. Importantly, the APC chairmanship was originally zoned to the North-Central. Ganduje’s emergence in the role attracted some resistance from that zone, which felt sidelined. Appointing Akume would not only address these concerns but also reinvigorate confidence in the party’s zoning arrangements. Akume’s calm temperament, organizational capability, and long-standing loyalty to the APC make him an ideal steward to manage the party through pre-2027 rebuilding efforts. His assumption of the party chairmanship would ensure North-Central stakeholders regain their footing within the power structure. The Regional Equation: Inclusion and Political Equilibrium This proposed swap also speaks to Nigeria’s delicate regional balancing act. The North-West, with its large voting population and consistent loyalty to the APC needs continued strategic placement within the federal architecture. Appointing Ganduje as SGF ensures that the region and Kano in particular remains central to the power map. This would solidify Kano’s political relevance and reward the state’s long-standing contribution to the APC’s electoral success. Simultaneously, handing the APC leadership to Akume would serve as a symbolic restoration of confidence among the North-Central bloc. As Nigeria grapples with economic uncertainty, security challenges, and rising opposition momentum, both the APC and the federal government require steady, competent leadership. A Ganduje-Akume role swap could represent a masterstroke blending experience, regional fairness, and strategic foresight. It is a proposition that merits serious consideration, not just for the benefit of the individuals involved, but for the overall cohesion of the APC, the operational synergy within government, and the political stability of Nigeria. The decision now lies with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Known for his strategic acumen and bold political decisions, this moment may call for yet another calculated adjustment, one that prioritizes competence, balance, and unity. Umar Idris Shuaibu is a digital journalist and writes from Kano.

Health, Humanitarian, Katsina

17-Brigade offers free medical treatment for 700 people in Katsina

The 17 Brigade of the Nigeria Army in Katsina has conducted a one-day medical outreach for residents of Katoge community in Katsina Local Government Area (LGA). Speaking during the exercise on Thursday, the Brigade’s Commander, Brig.-Gen. Babatunde Omopariola, said the outreach was an opportunity to engage with their immediate host community. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was part of activities for the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL). Related: Nigerian Navy Launches High-Tech Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security According to Omopariola, the aim was to foster goodwill and show the residents that the army is part of their community, just as they are part of the army. He explained that the health of the community was a major concern for the brigade, adding, “We try our best to assist in any way we can by providing healthcare for residents. “This community was chosen because of the limited income within the area; many residents may not be able to afford quality medical care like those in more robust communities. “So, it is essential that we support those with lower income so they can benefit more efficiently from this programme. “We prepared to attend to 500 to 700 people,” he said. Read Also: Ganduje Foundation Pledges Continued Support for Humanitarian and Religious Outreach Omopariola added that beneficiaries should view the gesture as an ongoing effort, though not a daily one. He further explained, “What we have done is provide an outreach for the community members and sensitise them. “We have also made arrangements with the community that if they have medical issues, they can visit our medical centre for primary healthcare services. “What we require from the community is the mutual trust that we expect from all Nigerians. “We want to increase our civil-military interaction and have their support in any way,” Omopariola said. He emphasised that host community support was essential for any military establishment or mutual operations. Capt. Kayinde Olakunle, the Acting Commanding Officer of the 17 Brigade Medical Centre, said beneficiaries would be treated for malaria, hypertension, diabetes, and provided with dental care. “This includes scaling and polishing, extractions and fillings for those with dental problems. “More severe cases will be given appointments at the medical centre or referred to teaching hospitals as necessary. “We will also treat malaria, typhoid fever, and respiratory tract infections. Severe cases will be referred for further care. “Children will be attended to, and insecticide-treated nets will be distributed to those under five years old,” Olakunle said. The village head of Katoge community, Alhaji Isiyaku Ado, said the outreach would greatly help alleviate the health challenges faced by residents. He commended Omopariola for the initiative and promised to continue supporting the officers and men of the brigade. (NAN)

Abuja, Kano, National, Politics

When Dr. Ganduje Opened the APC Doors to Nigeria’s Top Politicians

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, during his tenure as the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and current Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), played a defining role in enhancing the party’s national appeal through strategic engagement and high-profile political integrations. While in office, Dr. Ganduje was instrumental in attracting numerous influential politicians and stakeholders across party lines into the APC. His tenure was characterized by a calm yet deliberate approach to reconciliation, dialogue, and political bridge-building, which helped restore trust among disenchanted members and external allies. Read Also: After Ganduje’s Resignation, APC Faces Rising Opposition Momentum With decades of bureaucratic experience and a reputation for inclusive politics, Ganduje repositioned the APC as a more welcoming platform especially for individuals and groups seeking stability and national relevance. His skillful engagements, particularly in key regions such as the North, helped solidify the party’s grassroots and elite-level support, further shaping electoral outcomes in APC’s favor. His leadership era witnessed a surge in high-level defections to the APC. Former governors, lawmakers, and technocrats were drawn to the party, encouraged by Ganduje’s inclusive leadership and the clarity of his political vision. Many observers credit his statesmanship and deep understanding of Nigeria’s diverse political dynamics as key factors in the party’s internal consolidation and external expansion during his time as chairman. Even after his resignation, Ganduje’s legacy continues to echo within APC circles, offering a framework of unity and strategic outreach at a time when the party prepares for the mounting political stakes ahead of the 2027 general elections. Umar is a digital journalist and writes from Kano.

Education, National, News

Professor Haruna Musa to Lead BUK as New VC from August 18

The Governing Council of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has formally approved the appointment of Professor Haruna Musa as the institution’s 12th Vice-Chancellor. This was disclosed in an official letter signed by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, following the Council’s meeting held on Thursday, July 3, 2025. The letter stated that the appointment, which followed recommendations by the University’s Selection Board, is for a single five-year term effective from August 18, 2025. Read Also: Provost Gwaram Unveils FCAPT Progress, Seeks Urgent Completion of Bunkure Campus “The Governing Council of Bayero University, Kano, exercising its authority under Section 4 of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Amendment Act, 2003… hereby approves your appointment as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano,” the letter reads. A statement by the Director of Public Affairs, BUK, Malam Lamara Garba, said Dr. Gawuna congratulated Professor Musa and wished him a successful and impactful tenure. Academic and Professional Background Born on June 20, 1967, in Dambatta, Kano State, Professor Haruna Musa began his educational journey at Sabuwar Unguwa Primary School (1974–1980) and continued at Government Secondary School, Dambatta (1980–1985). He earned his IJMBE certificate from the College of Arts, Science and Remedial Studies, Kano in 1988 and proceeded to obtain a B.Sc. in Chemistry from BUK in 1991. He earned a Master’s in Polymer Chemistry from the same university in 1999 and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Bristol, UK, in 2009. While pursuing his doctorate, he worked part-time with Revolymer Ltd, a UK-based university spin-off company. Professor Musa began his academic career as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry at BUK in 1993. He became a full professor in 2019. Over his career, he has supervised more than 300 undergraduate and over 60 postgraduate research projects. He has published 52 scholarly articles, eight book chapters, and presented more than 40 conference papers across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Research and Innovations Professor Musa has led several landmark research projects. He was the principal investigator for a N36 million National Research Fund grant on rechargeable zinc-air batteries and currently serves as Nigeria’s lead on a joint research venture with North Carolina State University, USA. That project facilitated BUK’s acquisition of advanced Filabot equipment for plastic recycling research. His collaborative efforts extend to institutions in India, Morocco, Senegal, and Saudi Arabia. Leadership and Administrative Roles Professor Musa is currently the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) and chairs key university committees, including the Senate Business Committee and the University Admissions Committee. He has previously served as: Head, Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry (2015–2019) Deputy Director, Centre for Renewable Energy Research (CRER) Deputy Director I, TETFund Centre of Excellence on Renewable Energy and Sustainability Transitions (CREST) He has also represented the university at various levels, including the Senate and Governing Council. National Assignments and Community Service At the national level, Professor Musa has served as: Lead Researcher, TETFund Impact Assessment Committee Member, Kano State STI Policy Technical Committee (2025) NUC accreditation team member for federal, state, and private universities External Examiner/Assessor for postgraduate theses and academic promotions He was Chairperson of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), BUK branch (2020–2024), and founder of the Dambatta Educational Development Initiative (DEDI), a non-profit focused on expanding educational access for the underprivileged. Professional Memberships and Recognitions Professor Musa is a fellow or member of several professional bodies, including: Fellow, Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (FICCON) Fellow, Polymer Institute of Nigeria (FPIN) Fellow, Textile Researchers Association of Nigeria (FTRAN) Fellow, Security Institute (fsi) Member, Chemical Society of Nigeria (MCSN) Member, Society for Peace Studies and Practice (MSPSP) His numerous awards include: Best Graduating Student in Chemistry, BUK (1991) Beam Time Award, GSI Helmholtz Centre, Germany (2008) Award of Research Excellence, PIN & Raw Materials Research Council (2017) Professor Haruna Musa is married with children. He enjoys reading, research, travelling, and football.

National, Sport

1994 AFCON Champion and Super Eagles Legend Peter Rufai Dies at 61

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion, Peter Rufai, has died at the age of 61. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the news in a tribute shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, July 3, 2025. “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” the statement read. Read Also: Barau FC Arrives Asaba for NNL Super Eight, Targets NPFL Promotion Fondly known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria and was a key member of the Super Eagles’ golden generation. He helped the team secure their second AFCON title in Tunisia in 1994 and represented Nigeria at both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. Rufai remains one of Nigeria’s most iconic footballers, remembered for his leadership, agility, and calm presence in goal.

Kano, News

AIG Zone One Kano Pledges Support to PMAN in Fight Against Fake Drugs

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone One Headquarters, Kano, AIG Ahmed Garba, has assured the Kano chapter of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) of the police’s commitment to safeguarding the pharmaceutical industry against the circulation of adulterated and substandard drugs. This assurance came during a courtesy visit by PMAN executives, led by their chairman, Mr. Charles Emeka, to the AIG’s office on Wednesday, July 3, 2025. The meeting aimed to introduce the new leadership of the association and foster a stronger working relationship between PMAN and the police. During the discussion, the PMAN team raised concerns over the growing menace of fake and substandard drugs, which pose a threat to public health and undermine the efforts of legitimate manufacturers. They also appealed for increased security support to protect their manufacturing facilities and distribution channels. Read Also: AIG Zone I Receives Gauta Club on Courtesy Visit, Warns Against Unguarded Utterances In response, AIG Ahmed Garba commended the association for its proactive engagement and stressed the importance of regulatory compliance among PMAN members. He pledged the zonal headquarters’ full cooperation in ensuring the safety of pharmaceutical operations in the region. “The fight against counterfeit drugs is a shared responsibility, and the police will work closely with stakeholders like PMAN to protect lives and uphold industry standards,” the AIG stated. The meeting ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing commitment to a stronger partnership in tackling criminal activities in the pharmaceutical sector. Signed: CSP Bashir Muhammad, ANIPR Zonal Police Public Relations Officer Zone One Headquarters, Kano

National, News

Senate Probes SMEDAN, NUC Over Imbalanced Recruitment

The Senate Committee on Federal Character is investigating the Small and Medium Enterprisese Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the National Universities Commission (NUC) over alleged lopsided recruitment practices. At a hearing chaired by Senator Allwell Onyesoh, SMEDAN was criticized for regional imbalances in its staff structure with states like Kogi and Katsina significantly overrepresented, while others like Ebonyi and Kebbi had very few staff. SMEDAN’s Director-General, Mr. Charles Odii, acknowledged the imbalance and pledged to correct it in future exercises. Read Also: FG, Kano State, Rebuild and Launch Kano Digital Park The NUC, which hasn’t recruited since 2014, was also faulted for an uneven staff distribution. Executive Secretary, Professor Abdulahi Yusufu Ribadu, assured the Senate that future recruitment would reflect fairness and inclusivity. Both agencies were urged to present plans to address the disparities, as the Senate emphasized transparency and constitutional compliance in public sector employment.

National, News

FG Approves 37 New Oil Evacuation Routes to Tackle Theft, Boost Production — NUPRC

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced that the federal government has approved 37 new crude oil evacuation routes as part of ongoing efforts to curb oil theft and enhance production capacity. Speaking at the 2025 Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week in Abuja, the Chief Executive Officer of NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, said securing oil infrastructure remains a top priority for the commission. According to him, the newly designated routes, alongside improved collaboration with security agencies, are contributing to a reduction in oil theft and enhancing transparency across the upstream sector. “Our domestic crude supply obligation is ensuring feedstock for local refineries, strengthening domestic supply chains, and boosting economic resilience,” Komolafe stated. Read Also: NNPC Alleges Sabotage Plot to Derail Reform Agenda He also highlighted the impact of the HostComply platform, which he said has improved transparency and delivered measurable benefits to oil-producing communities fostering peace and social license to operate. Komolafe added that the commission’s digitisation efforts are transforming regulatory oversight by improving speed, efficiency, and investor clarity. He noted that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria’s energy sector has attracted over $16 billion in investment commitments within the past two years, thanks to bold reforms and a stable policy direction. The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, he said, laid the foundation for these reforms, while the 2024 Executive Orders EO 40 on fiscal incentives, EO 41 on local content, and EO 42 on cost efficiency have accelerated investor confidence. “These reforms have repositioned the sector to ensure greater energy security, sustainability, and economic resilience,” he said. Read Also: Nigeria Pushes Blue Economy Agenda with Seabed Mapping, Hydrography Initiatives On the global stage, Komolafe stressed the need for consistent upstream investment to meet demand, citing projections that oil and gas will remain responsible for over 50% of global energy needs until at least 2050. “To meet that demand, the world will require over $640 billion in upstream investments annually through 2030 amounting to more than $4 trillion. Failure to meet this demand will threaten global stability. Nigeria and Africa cannot afford to ignore this,” he warned. Nigeria Eyes 2.5 Million Barrels per Day through Dormant Field Revival The NUPRC chief also spoke on the commission’s ongoing efforts to scale up production through the One Million Barrels Initiative, launched in 2024. The initiative targets increased output by reviving dormant fields, expediting regulatory approvals, and improving upstream efficiency. “Our goal is to raise daily crude oil production from 1.46 million barrels per day (bpd) to 2.5 million bpd by 2026. We have already reached 1.7 million bpd, and the momentum is strong,” Komolafe revealed. He concluded by reaffirming the commission’s commitment to integrating climate responsibility into its operations, in line with Nigeria’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, even as oil and gas continue to anchor the country’s economy.  

Scroll to Top