Author name: Umar Idris Shuaibu

Former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji, has dismissed his removal as Wazirin Gaya by the Gaya Emirate Council as “an action in futility” and lacking legal merit. His response comes days after the Council, backed by the Kano State Government, announced the revocation of his traditional title, following his public criticism of the government over the alleged mismanagement of a $600 million foreign loan. In a statement issued by Ibrahim Dan’azumi Gwarzo on behalf of the APC Patriotic Volunteers, a group founded by Usman Alhaji the former SSG described the withdrawal as politically driven and in violation of due process. He argued that proper procedures were not followed, including failure to issue a query or provide him a chance to defend himself, as required under emirate law. The statement also questioned why Alhaji was singled out, despite other titleholders also lacking approval for reinstatement following the emirates’ restructuring. Read Also: After Ganduje’s Resignation, APC Faces Rising Opposition Momentum Citing the law that dissolved the additional emirates of Gaya, Rano, Karaye, and Bichi during the last administration, the group argued that Alhaji’s title had already lapsed when Gaya was downgraded from first-class status. It added that although the emir requested the return of some former titleholders after the restoration of the emirates, the government allegedly denied Alhaji’s reinstatement for political reasons. Despite the withdrawal, the group asserted that Alhaji would continue to be addressed as Wazirin Gaya in recognition of his past service. “No amount of political persecution can erase the legacy of Alhaji Usman Alhaji,” the statement said, adding that they await the final verdict from the Supreme Court on the emirates’ legal status.  

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has commissioned the restored Digital Industrial Park (DIP) in Kano State, describing it as a landmark initiative aimed at fostering grassroots digital transformation in Northern Nigeria. Originally completed in 2024, the multi-billion-naira facility was vandalized during the August 1, 2024, nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest. The destruction delayed its planned commissioning. However, through a robust public-private collaboration, particularly with IHS Towers, the facility has been fully rehabilitated and is now operational. Read Also: Nigerian Navy Launches High-Tech Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security This was contained in a statement signed by Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Honourable Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Kano State, and made available to newsmen. Representing the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, at the commissioning ceremony, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, expressed the state government’s appreciation for the Federal Government’s commitment to technological development in Kano. “The Minister’s inclusive strategy of engaging private sector players like IHS Towers demonstrates that Nigeria’s digital future is in promising hands,” the Deputy Governor said. “This park is not just a facility; it is a beacon of opportunity and hope for our youth.” Also speaking at the event, Mr. Kazeem Oladepo, who represented IHS Towers, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Kano in the area of ICT infrastructure and digital innovation. “We are prepared to deepen our collaboration with the state government to ensure inclusive digital growth and transformation,” he stated. In his remarks, Dr. Tijani noted that Kano State recorded the highest number of applicants for the Federal Government’s flagship 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, a sign of the region’s readiness to embrace innovation. “Kano is ripe for digital transformation. The energy, enthusiasm, and talent of its youth are unmatched,” he said. “This facility will serve as a hub for digital learning, job creation, and innovation.” As a gesture of appreciation, the Deputy Governor presented the Minister with traditional regalia, a sword and cap and conferred on him the honorary title of Sarkin Yakin Digitalization (Grand Commander of Digitalization) in recognition of his leadership and support for digital advancement. The event was attended by top government officials, traditional leaders, private sector stakeholders, and media professionals. It underscored the growing synergy between government and private actors in unlocking Nigeria’s digital economy and empowering its youth. Photos:

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has urged Information Officers serving in the state’s Local Government Areas to demonstrate professionalism, dedication, and active participation in their official responsibilities. Comrade Waiya made the call during the closing ceremony of a two-day capacity-building workshop organized for Local Government Information Officers. The training focused on strategies for raising public awareness about healthy eating habits and the prevention of diet-related non-communicable diseases. Read Also: BUK Elects Professor Haruna Musa as Vice Chancellor After Congregation Parley Win The Commissioner emphasized that officers who exhibit commitment and competence naturally gain the trust of their superiors and are more likely to be considered for key assignments. “Officers who show genuine professionalism will always be relevant in government activities. However, those who lack capacity and fail to demonstrate seriousness may find themselves left out,” Waiya said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the skills of information officers through regular training, recognizing their crucial role in accurate information dissemination and public education—especially on health and wellness issues that affect communities. Comrade Waiya praised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his continuous support to the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, especially in empowering staff and sustaining public enlightenment programmes. He also commended the Ministry’s staff, subject experts, and resource persons for their contributions to the workshop. “The ideas and strategies shared during this programme will empower our officers to better communicate vital health messages, especially around nutrition and disease prevention,” he noted. Certificates of participation were presented to all attendees at the close of the workshop. Speaking on behalf of the Local Government Information Officers, Jamilu Mustapha expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for his ongoing commitment to their professional development and welfare, particularly through regular and impactful training opportunities.