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Kano Assembly Passes Local Govt, Assembly Service Commission Bills

Kano Assembly Passes Local Govt, Assembly Service Commission Bills

Kano Police Strengthen Public Relations, Human Rights in Statewide Retraining

Kano Police Strengthen Public Relations, Human Rights in Statewide Retraining

FG Sets Transition Plan for Direct Oil Revenue Payments to Federation Account

FG Sets Transition Plan for Direct Oil Revenue Payments to Federation Account

Iran Says Kheibar Missiles Targeted Israeli Govt Compound

Iran Says Kheibar Missiles Targeted Israeli Govt Compound

Iran Confirms Death of Supreme Leader Khamenei in US-Israel Strikes

Iran Confirms Death of Supreme Leader Khamenei in US-Israel Strikes

President Tinubu Renews Audi’s Tenure as NSCDC Boss

President Tinubu Renews Audi’s Tenure as NSCDC Boss

Iran Warns of Open-Ended Retaliation, Hits U.S. Linked Bases Across Region

Iran Warns of Open-Ended Retaliation, Hits U.S. Linked Bases Across Region

Kafanchan: Emir of Jema’a Palace Hit as Fire Destroyed 4 Flats

Kafanchan: Emir of Jema’a Palace Hit as Fire Destroyed 4 Flats

After Five Years at Helm, Audi Exits NSCDC, Lists Milestones in Security Operations

After Five Years at Helm, Audi Exits NSCDC, Lists Milestones in Security Operations

IGP Transition: Tinubu Moves to Retain Senior Police Leadership

IGP Transition: Tinubu Moves to Retain Senior Police Leadership

Agriculture

Agriculture, National, News

FG Launches FarmerMoni Programme, 22,000 Farmers to Benefit

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The Federal Government has announced that no fewer than 22,000 farmers across Nigeria will benefit from interest-free loans under the FarmerMoni Dry and Wet Season Programme. The initiative, implemented through the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), was unveiled during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope GEEP 3.0 and the FarmerMoni Technical Working Group in Abuja on Wednesday. Speaking at the event, the National Programme Manager of the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) under NSIPA, Mr. Hamza Baba, said the loan scheme is both interest-free and collateral-free, aimed at boosting agricultural productivity nationwide. According to him, the application portal has been opened for eligible farmers to register and access the facility. “Under this scheme, eligible farmers can register through our portal to access the loans. These loans are interest-free and collateral-free,” Baba said. He disclosed that each beneficiary would receive up to N300,000, with the amount determined based on the economic production capacity of specific farming activities. Read Also: Why Gobirawa’s Centuries-Old Agrarian Life is at Risk in Kano Nigeria Must Integrate Innovation, Policy, and Research for Growth — Bindir Pantami, Bugaje Call for Skills Reform, Energy Solutions at BUK Engineering Conference “We are targeting vulnerable and poor farmers at the grassroots. The total sum per beneficiary is N300,000,” he added. Baba explained that to qualify, applicants must be Nigerian citizens aged 18 and above, already engaged in farming activities either through land ownership or rented farmland. “They must have a bank account, National Identification Number (NIN), municipal identification, and belong to a registered farming cooperative or association within their local government,” he stated. The programme will cover all 774 local government areas in the country, with an average of 28 farmers expected to benefit per local government in this phase. “At the state level, our programme managers will work with enumerators, banks, FinTech recovery agents, agricultural development projects and farmer associations across the 37 states of the federation,” Baba explained. He noted that a similar intervention, TraderMoni, is designed to support artisans and petty traders under the broader GEEP framework. Also speaking, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro, described the launch of Renewed Hope GEEP 3.0 as more than the unveiling of policy initiatives. According to him, the programme reflects the administration’s commitment to translating its vision into concrete actions aimed at improving lives, restoring dignity and expanding economic opportunities for Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable. “The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is anchored on inclusion, resilience and shared prosperity. It is a commitment to ensure that growth is broad-based and people-centred,” the minister said. He added that the FarmerMoni Dry and Wet Season Programme is a strategic intervention to strengthen agricultural productivity throughout both planting cycles, reduce seasonal vulnerabilities, enhance yield and contribute to national food security. “Our farmers remain the backbone of the Nigerian economy. Supporting them is not only an economic necessity but also a moral obligation,” he said, reiterating that the overarching goal of the initiatives is poverty reduction through empowerment. (NAN)

Agriculture, Feature, Kano

Why Gobirawa’s Centuries-Old Agrarian Life is at Risk in Kano

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By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano Gobirawa Ward, a riverine farming settlement in Madobi Local Government Area of Kano State, is facing an existential threat as years of unchecked sand mining continue to destroy farmlands, degrade fertile soil, and now dangerously encroach on residential areas. Located in Kano Central Zone, Gobirawa has survived for more than 300 years as an agrarian community whose economy, culture, and identity are deeply rooted in farming. Generations of residents have relied on irrigated agriculture, producing tomatoes, peppers, onions, and assorted vegetables during the dry season, while cultivating grains and other food crops during the rainy season. The community is also known for orchard farming. Mango, orange, lime, guava, papaya, banana, cashew, and kola nut trees have long sustained household incomes and food security. Local elders trace Gobirawa’s ancestry to the Gobir area of present-day Sokoto State, with farming shaping settlement patterns and livelihoods for centuries. However, residents say this way of life is rapidly disappearing. How sand mining changed everything Sand mining activities began about six years ago along riverbanks close to farmlands and residential areas. According to residents, the excavation disrupted natural waterways, weakened soil structure, and exposed farmlands to severe erosion. An elderly farmer, Malam Nasiru Alasan, grandson of Bawa Jan Gwarzo, said more than 3,000 residents depend solely on farming inherited from their forefathers, but that livelihood is now being wiped out. Read Also: 300-Year-Old Kano Farming Settlement Faces Extinction Over Sand Mining Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Kaduna Birnin Kudu: An Ancient Settlement With a Modern National Footprint Over 100 large farmlands have already been degraded by water due to sand mining, he said, adding that every rainy season, more than 30 metres of land is washed away. “If this continues, erosion will reach our houses within days. Our settlements will be washed away, and farming and livestock rearing will become history,” Alasan warned. Another resident, Malam Jamilu Sulaiman of the Gobirawa–Gora Bakin Kogi area, said the problem escalated after a businessman acquired land for sand excavation at Tashar Maza. “Our nutrient-rich soil has been completely washed away. The degraded land now stretches for more than one kilometre, and erosion is dangerously close to our homes,” he said. Sulaiman listed affected communities to include Alwali, Kanawa, Gobirawa, Unguwar Mazare, Gidan Makaho, Gidan Bawa, Unguwar Lungu, Gangare, Cunkosa, Madobi, and several areas along the Rimingado axis, including Kwanar Haido, Iriri, Unguwar Musa, Tsalle, and Tsara. He noted that a significant portion of sweet potatoes and Irish potatoes consumed in Kano metropolis is produced in these areas, with agricultural activities valued in millions of naira annually. “Even if sand mining stops today, recovery will take at least 50 years because large mango, kola nut, and orange trees have already been washed away,” he said. Why experts say the damage is severe Agricultural experts warn that the environmental damage may be long-lasting. An agriculturalist and Provost of the Federal College of Agriculture, Kirikasamma, Jigawa State, Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, explained that continuous erosion strips soil of essential nutrients, gradually destroying soil health and agricultural productivity. He said prolonged soil degradation weakens land structure, making sustainable farming impossible, and urged authorities and farmers to prioritise tree planting to reduce erosion and restore degraded land. According to him, the situation threatens not just food production but the economic stability of farming communities across the region. Promises made, action yet to come Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Watershed Erosion and Climate Change Management Agency (WECCMA), Dr. Mahmoud Abba, said the agency would inspect the affected areas to assess the level of degradation and halt sand excavation activities. However, residents say no such visit has taken place. Despite the assurances, WECCMA officials are yet to assess the damage or initiate any restoration measures. Meanwhile, erosion continues unchecked, worsening with each rainfall. Fear moves from farms to homes Residents say their anxiety has now gone beyond loss of farmland to fear for their homes and personal safety. According to them, erosion channels are advancing rapidly toward residential areas, threatening to displace families who have lived on the land for generations. “This is not just about our economic survival anymore,” a community leader said. “Our houses, our children, and our future are now at risk.” Calls for urgent intervention The people of Gobirawa have appealed to the Madobi Local Government Council and the Kano State Government to urgently intervene by stopping sand mining activities, enforcing environmental regulations, and initiating land restoration efforts. Efforts by ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ to reach the alleged owner of the heavy-duty machines used for sand mining in the Gobirawa-Gora area, Alhaji Umar Musa Kwankwaso, popularly known as Marafa, were unsuccessful, as calls and WhatsApp messages sent to him had not been responded to as of the time of filing this report. For Gobirawa residents, time is running out. Without immediate action, a farming settlement that has endured for over three centuries may soon be erased along with the livelihoods, culture, and homes that define it.

Agriculture, Economy, National, News

FG Promotes Market-Driven Agriculture Under $500m AGROW Initiative

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The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that farmers are actively involved in policy decisions aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening national food security. The Manager, Research, Data and Impact Assessment at the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU), Mr. Eniola Akindele, stated this during the Nigeria Sustainable Agricultural Value Chains for Growth Programme (AGROW) Agroecological Zonal Workshop held in Kano. Akindele said the current administration is prioritising farmer-driven, market-oriented and results-based agricultural interventions, stressing that policies must respond to realities on the ground rather than follow a top-down approach. According to him, AGROW focuses on strategic value chains including rice, wheat, tomato, sesame and sorghum, which are critical to Nigeria’s food security and economic development. He explained that AGROW is a $500 million homegrown initiative led by Nigeria, co-created across the three tiers of government, and shaped in partnership with the private sector and development partners, with technical support from the World Bank. Read Also: Tinubu Says Nigeria to Generate Up to $3bn Yearly From Carbon Market 300-Year-Old Kano Farming Settlement Faces Extinction Over Sand Mining Govt Girls’ School Maga Reopens After Bandit Attack Akindele noted that past agricultural programmes were hindered by fragmented public spending, blanket input subsidies, government-driven implementation models, opaque land administration systems and multiple informal trade levies. He said the AGROW framework introduces a new approach centred on state-level agricultural support, financial incentives tied to market outcomes and targeted public investment. Other pillars include institutionalised private sector engagement, transparent and secure land administration, as well as efficient and predictable interstate agricultural trade. The PFSCU official added that the programme is built on three major components: strengthening private sector linkages with smallholder farmers, modernising on-farm production systems, and effective project coordination, monitoring and evaluation. He further outlined eligibility requirements for states seeking to participate in AGROW, including sustainable land-based investment processes, digital farmer registries, increased transparency in fees and levies for interstate trade, reduced reliance on input subsidies and stronger support for agricultural cooperatives. In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Kano State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alhaji Bashir Sunusi, said the workshop aligns with the Kano State Government’s agenda to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen food systems. He disclosed that the state government has recruited 1,038 agricultural extension workers, provided farming equipment such as tractors and power tillers, and established three mechanisation centres in Gaya, Dambatta and Kadawa. Participants at the workshop were drawn from Sudan Savannah agroecological states of Kano, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara.

Agriculture, National, News

NAIC Leadership Ends Year on High Note, Pledges Stronger Performance in 2026

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The leadership of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) has rounded off the year on a high note, with assurances of stronger institutional performance and reforms in 2026. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NAIC, Honourable Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani, on Thursday hosted a grand end-of-year celebration for staff at the Corporation’s headquarters in Abuja, an event described as the first of its kind in the history of the organisation. The ceremony brought together staff physically present at the headquarters, as well as employees from the Corporation’s 36 state branches who joined virtually. Addressing the gathering, Danfulani acknowledged that he assumed office at a time of economic downturn and institutional challenges but reaffirmed his commitment to repositioning NAIC through strategic reforms. He noted that his background in financial management and banking, coupled with administrative experience, would be deployed to strengthen the Corporation. Related: NAIC Boss Wins National Award ACSPN Hails Dr. Maradun’s Appointment as NAIC Corporate Affairs Manager Lawal Umar Maradun Appointed Manager, Corporate Affairs at NAIC According to him, management is reviewing financial obligations, engaging key stakeholders, strengthening internal controls, and implementing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and revenue generation. He assured staff of open, transparent, and effective communication between management and employees to ensure proper coordination of NAIC’s operations nationwide, urging all staff to work in unity towards achieving the Corporation’s mandate. Earlier, the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Prince Dayo Babaranti, reiterated management’s resolve to achieve NAIC’s set goals, commending the MD/CEO’s resilience and leadership. He described Danfulani as a selfless leader committed to the growth and development of the Corporation and assured that both management and staff would continue to support his vision. Also speaking, the General Manager, Technical, Mrs Florence Nwanoukwu, described NAIC as fortunate to have Danfulani as MD/CEO despite prevailing economic challenges, noting that his leadership style has boosted staff morale. She expressed optimism that ongoing capitalisation efforts would significantly improve the Corporation’s activities. On behalf of the workforce, the President of the NAIC Staff Union, Comrade Buhari Aliyu, expressed appreciation to the MD/CEO for prompt interventions to improve staff welfare. He cited measures such as the approval of staff upgrades and proper placement for employees stagnated for over 15 years, a 200 per cent increase in lunch subsidy, and the implementation of a three-year promotion cycle. He pledged the union’s continued cooperation with management for the sustained growth of the Corporation. Speaker after speaker at the event commended the MD/CEO for prioritising staff welfare and morale, describing them as critical drivers of institutional performance and productivity.  

Agriculture, Education, Jigawa

Governor Namadi Commends Dr. Gwaram’s Appointment, Reaffirms Commitment to Kirikasamma College Takeoff

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Governor Malam Umar Namadi has congratulated the newly appointed management of the Federal College of Agriculture, Kirikasamma, and pledged Jigawa State Government’s full support as the institution prepares for its official takeoff. The governor conveyed his message in Dutse while congratulating the pioneer Provost, Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, and his management team. He described Dr. Gwaram as a proud son of Jigawa who has consistently advised government on agricultural transformation, even during his tenure as Provost of the Federal College of Agricultural Produce Technology (FCAPT), Kano. Governor Namadi noted that Dr. Gwaram’s long-standing commitment toward establishing the new agricultural college in Kirikasamma has finally materialized, adding that his presence in Jigawa will further strengthen the state’s drive toward agricultural advancement. He acknowledged the Provost’s dedication and sacrifices, describing him as a committed citizen whose contributions extend beyond Jigawa to national development. He assured that the state government will provide all necessary support to ensure smooth operations and early stabilization of the institution. Read Also: Jigawa Governor Presents 2026 Budget, Prioritises Development Across State Jigawa, HJRBDA Partner to Tackle Flooding, Boost Irrigation Dr. Gwaram Appointed Provost, Set to Lead Federal College of Agriculture, Kirikasamma The governor prayed for the success of the new management team and encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunities the Federal College of Agriculture Kirikasamma will offer, noting that it is a Federal Government institution with significant potential. Governor Namadi also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the institution and other ongoing federal interventions benefiting Jigawa State.

Agriculture, Jigawa, News

Governor Namadi Assures Full Support for Federal College of Agriculture Kirikasamma Takeoff

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Governor Malam Umar Namadi has pledged the Jigawa State Government’s full support to the newly appointed management of the Federal College of Agriculture, Kirikasamma, as the institution prepares for its official takeoff. The governor made the commitment while receiving the pioneer management team, led by the Provost, Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Dutse. Governor Namadi described the appointments as historic, noting that establishing a new federal institution requires dedication, vision, and technical capacity. He expressed confidence in the calibre of the new management team to lay a strong foundation for the college. “Establishing a new institution is not an effortless task. You are now part of history. If the college succeeds, your names will be remembered positively; if it fails, the same applies. But I am confident, given the calibre of the team, that the college is starting on the right footing,” he said. Read Also: Dr. Gwaram Appointed Provost, Set to Lead Federal College of Agriculture, Kirikasamma The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assenting to the bills establishing the Federal College of Agriculture, Kirikasamma and the Federal College of Education, Birnin Kudu. He also revealed that Jigawa State is close to securing a third federal institution following his recent discussions with the president. “We are greatly indebted to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for assenting to the bills establishing both colleges. And let me inform you, Provost: we are working on securing a third federal institution for Jigawa. I have discussed it with the president, and Insha’Allah, it will come to fruition.” Governor Namadi assured the management of the state government’s unwavering support to ensure a smooth and successful takeoff of the college. “As a government, we will do everything possible to ensure the successful takeoff of the college. You have our full support. We are very fortunate to have Dr. Gwaram leading this institution—an experienced agriculturist, a seasoned administrator, and a committed son of Jigawa,” he stated. He further commended the Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Education, Hon. Fulata (member representing Birniwa/Guri/Kirikasamma Federal Constituency), the Provost, and the Jigawa State Commissioner for Higher Education for their roles in facilitating the establishment of the institutions. Earlier, the Provost, Dr. Muhammad Yusha’u Gwaram, thanked the state government for its continuous support and assured that the college is ready for immediate takeoff. “This college is to be a specialized institution where modern agricultural techniques will be taught. We intend to educate our farmers and bring other relevant agencies into Jigawa,” he said. Dr. Gwaram added that the management is already engaging with regulatory bodies, including NBTE, to complete all requirements for takeoff. He acknowledged the extensive efforts undertaken with federal agencies, regulators, and stakeholders to secure the institution’s approval and pledged the management’s commitment to deliver results worthy of the state and the nation.

Agriculture, Education, Kano

ABCOAD Conference Calls for Technology-Driven Agriculture to Secure Nigeria’s Food Future

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By Abdu Saidu, Kano The Audu Bako College of Agriculture, Dambatta (ABCOAD), on November 17, 2025, convened its 8th Biennial National Conference, issuing strong calls for climate-smart agricultural practices and emerging technologies to strengthen Nigeria’s food security and economic resilience. The conference, themed “Climate Smart Agriculture and Emerging Technologies for National Food Security and Global Competitiveness: Building Resilient Economies,” attracted researchers, industry professionals, policymakers, and academics from across the country. In his opening remarks, the Provost of the College, Professor M. A. Wailare, said the theme reflected urgent global realities, noting that climate variability, rising production costs, migration pressures, and disruptions in supply chains are reshaping the agricultural landscape worldwide. “For Nigeria, where millions depend on agriculture for their livelihood, the challenge is both profound and immediate,” he said, urging participants to fully engage and offer practical solutions. “Share knowledge, challenge assumptions, and collaborate on solutions that can reshape the future of agriculture in our country.” Read Also: Dr. Gwaram Appointed Provost, Set to Lead Federal College of Agriculture, Kirikasamma Ganduje Attends 3rd National Aviation Conference in Lagos Kano South Senator, Kawu Sumaila Marries NAF Officer in Low-Key Ceremony Representing the Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Higher Education, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, the Executive Secretary of KSSMB, Hon. Rabi’u Sale Gwarzo, described the conference theme as both timely and essential. He said Nigeria stands at a critical point where agriculture has become central to national survival, economic diversification, and youth employment. “I salute the organisers, presenters, and participants for their dedication. Your passion keeps agriculture alive. Your intellect keeps innovation shining. Your work ensures Nigeria remains capable of feeding itself and exporting to the world,” he remarked. The Chairman of the Occasion, Alhaji Nu’uman Barau Dambatta, OON, Ajiyan Kazaure—represented by Alhaji Mukhtar Maje Adnan—warned that climate change poses direct threats to food security, agricultural productivity, and human survival. He emphasized the need for proactive mitigation strategies, stating: “Reducing the effects of climate change should be pursued through increased flora establishment—shelterbelts, tree planting, agroforestry—reduction in fossil fuel usage, modernizing agricultural practices, and embracing agricultural technology.” Dr. Abdulhamid Bala, who served as the Lead Paper Presenter, delivered a detailed and research-driven presentation on climate-smart agriculture and emerging technologies. He highlighted the transformative roles of digital innovation, biotechnology, and precision farming in boosting productivity and ensuring global competitiveness. He urged academic institutions, government agencies, and private-sector actors to strengthen collaboration in order to build a resilient agricultural sector capable of withstanding climate shocks. Throughout the conference, researchers and participants presented new findings aimed at improving crop yields, livestock development, and environmental sustainability. In his closing remarks, Professor Wailare commended the depth of participation and reiterated the College’s commitment to promoting agricultural innovation and research. “This is not just an academic gathering—it is a national platform for shaping practical ideas that can transform agriculture into a resilient, technology-driven sector,” he said. He announced that resolutions from the conference would be compiled into a policy-focused document for relevant government and industry stakeholders. The 8th Biennial National Conference reaffirmed ABCOAD’s position as a leading institution in agricultural education, research, and national development.

Agriculture, Feature, Kano, National

The Green Imperative Is Not Just a Federal Government Project — It Is a Lifeline for Northern Nigeria’s Agricultural Future

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Veteran labour leader, Comrade Mustapha Nuhu Wali, has called on northern leaders, traditional institutions, cooperatives, and private investors to take ownership of the Green Imperative Programme, stressing that the initiative is not just a Federal Government project but a national lifeline for the North’s agricultural transformation. He stated this in a statement released to ‘The Historica Nigeria‘, noting that while the Green Imperative Programme was designed to revolutionise farming across the country, its success now depends largely on active regional participation. “The Green Imperative is not just a Federal Government initiative; it is a national programme that requires regional participation. Northern state governments, traditional institutions, cooperatives, and private investors must now take ownership,” Wali said. Read Also: Food Waivers Threaten Northern Agriculture, Says Wali Reps Move to Establish Nigeria Police Pension Board, End PenCom Control Niger Delta Leaders Push Jonathan to Support Tinubu Originally launched in 2019 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Green Imperative Programme was a ten-year mechanisation partnership between Nigeria and Brazil, aimed at supplying over 10,000 tractors, 50,000 implements, and establishing 774 service centres nationwide. The initiative was expected to create millions of jobs and transform rural economies through modern mechanised farming. However, seven years later, the programme has not achieved its full potential. Wali attributed the setback to the limited engagement from state governments and regional stakeholders, who failed to provide the required counterpart funding and institutional support. “Mechanisation cannot be achieved through federal action alone. It requires collective ownership and sustained political will at every level,” he said. He described the Green Imperative as a missed opportunity that could have transformed food production and employment, particularly in Northern Nigeria, which holds more than 70 percent of the country’s arable land. Wali, however, commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reviving and commercialising the programme in 2025, saying that renewed agreements with Brazil and technical partners show a genuine political commitment to sustainable agricultural development. “The revival of the Green Imperative offers a second chance—especially for Northern Nigeria, where the youthful population and vast land mass make it the natural engine of the nation’s food security. Mechanisation is not a luxury; for Northern Nigeria, it is a necessity for survival and growth,” he said. He urged northern state governments, private investors, and traditional institutions to create Green Imperative Implementation Desks within their ministries of agriculture and to train youths and women as tractor operators, mechanics, and service providers. He also called on polytechnics and universities in the region to strengthen practical agricultural engineering and mechanisation programmes to ensure long-term sustainability. “The era of waiting for Abuja is over. Local leadership and regional coordination must drive agricultural transformation,” he added. Wali emphasised that state governments should provide counterpart funding, allocate land for training and service centres, and set clear mechanisation targets in their budgets. He further encouraged cooperatives and private companies to partner with federal agencies in running tractor-hire and maintenance services, while NGOs and development partners focus on youth and women empowerment clusters. He concluded by calling for transparency, accountability, and local assembly of equipment, warning that seven of the ten years originally planned for the project had already passed. “The Green Imperative is not just a federal government project; it is a lifeline for the North. If properly embraced, it can ignite a Northern Agricultural Renaissance—one that feeds the nation, empowers the youth, and sustains livelihoods,” Wali stressed.

Agriculture, Kaduna, National, News

ABU Zaria Moves to Reposition NAPRI, Constitutes Reform Committee

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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has declared a state of emergency on the National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) and set up a committee to revitalise the institute. Malam Auwalu Umar, Director of the Public Affairs Directorate of the university, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Zaria. He explained that the revitalisation move was aimed at repositioning NAPRI for greater impact in livestock research, breeding, and resource mobilisation. Read Also: Ministry of Livestock Commissions 2,000-Litre Milk Collection Centre in Bauchi According to him, the NAPRI Reform and Strategic Transformation Committee is chaired by Prof. J. K. P. Kwaga of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. The Vice-Chancellor of ABU, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, described NAPRI as “too strategic to fail in its mandate,” noting that the institute had faced significant challenges in fulfilling its core objectives. Prof. Ahmed said the university declared a state of emergency on NAPRI to address the decline in its statutory functions, stressing that the committee’s assignment was crucial to the success of the reform process. The committee is expected to design and oversee comprehensive reforms that would revitalise NAPRI’s core functions and restore its place as a key contributor to Nigeria’s livestock development goals. He charged the committee to submit an inception report within two weeks, outlining its reform framework and implementation strategy, and assured full support from the university management. The Vice-Chancellor commended Prof. Kwaga’s leadership and expertise, describing his role as pivotal to the transformation effort. In his response, Prof. Kwaga expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor and the university management for the confidence reposed in the committee, assuring their readiness to deliver within the stipulated six-month timeframe. Members of the committee include Prof. I. U. Abubakar, former Executive Director of the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), and Prof. M. K. Othman, former Executive Director of the National Agricultural Extension Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS). Others are Prof. Tunji Iyiola-Tunji of NAERLS, Prof. A. K. B. Sackey of ABU’s Department of Veterinary Medicine, and Prof. Abdul Bakura, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture. The former Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof. Junaidu Kabir, will serve as the Secretary of the committee. (NAN)

Agriculture, Economy, National, News

Food Waivers Threaten Northern Agriculture, Says Wali

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Veteran labour leader and development advocate, Comrade Mustapha Nuhu Wali, mni, has warned that the Federal Government’s decision to grant ₦97 billion worth of duty waivers on imported food could have devastating effects on Northern Nigeria’s agricultural economy. In a statement issued on Friday in Kano, Wali described the policy as a “short-term political fix” that undermines decades of resilience, self-reliance, and investment in the region’s agricultural sector. He said while the initiative may temporarily reduce food prices in urban centres like Lagos and Abuja, it has already triggered economic hardship among farmers in the North, particularly in states such as Kano, Sokoto, Zaria, Borno, and Benue. Read Also: Wali Hosts Annual Maulud, Calls for Unity, Prayers and Emulation of Prophet’s Virtues “Farmers already struggling with insecurity, high costs of fertilizer and fuel, now face unprofitable markets as cheap imports flood the nation,” he said. Wali compared the policy to Nigeria’s past economic missteps, including the 1986 Structural Adjustment Programme and the rice import era of the 2000s, arguing that both weakened local capacity and increased dependency on imports. He expressed concern that many Northern states had failed to invest their increased federal allocations from fuel subsidy removal in revitalising agriculture. “Dams and irrigation systems such as Tiga, Bagauda, and Danbatta in Kano have deteriorated, while similar facilities in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Borno remain in disrepair,” he lamented. According to Wali, only Niger State has announced a meaningful agricultural revitalisation programme. He also noted that without continuity, gains from the Buhari-era Anchor Borrowers’ Programme and rice initiatives are fast eroding. Beyond crops, Wali highlighted the neglect of livestock management and grazing reserves, saying it has worsened communal clashes in states such as Benue, Jos, and Kogi. While commending the creation of a Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, he said the effort would remain symbolic without collaboration and investment from Northern governors. He warned of the social consequences of agricultural decline, including youth migration, unemployment, and rising insecurity. “Many young Northerners have become trapped in menial and undignified jobs in southern cities, while Almajiri children and youth gangs continue to pose a growing threat to social stability,” he stated. Wali urged the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and other regional institutions to revive their historical roles by promoting regional accountability and mobilising collective action for economic revival. “The North must reclaim its legacy through irrigation renewal, quality education, youth empowerment, and improved security,” he stressed. He called on the Federal Government to reconsider the food import waiver and instead channel efforts into empowering local farmers, expanding irrigation networks, and supporting agro-industrial value chains. “Without this shift, Nigeria risks turning its most fertile region into an economic wasteland and the North’s greatest asset into its deepest vulnerability,” Wali concluded.

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