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Feature, Kano

16 Years After, Rimi’s Pro-People Legacy Still Resonates in Kano

By Umar Idris Shuaibu Kano State on Saturday marked another anniversary of the passing of former governor, Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi, who died on April 4, 2010. Rimi, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures during the Second Republic, is remembered for his pro-people policies, bold leadership style, and commitment to social justice, which earned him the popular nickname “Limamin Canji” (the Apostle of Change). Born in 1940, Rimi made history as the first democratically elected Governor of Kano State, serving from October 1979 to May 1983 under the platform of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP). During his time in office, he championed mass-oriented reforms aimed at improving the welfare of ordinary citizens. His administration introduced an adult and mass literacy programme that received international recognition from UNESCO in 1983. Read Also: UNICEF Raises Alarm Over Child Poverty as States Push Social Protection Reforms CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention 2025 in Memoriam: Nigerians and Global Icons Who Left a Lasting Legacy He also made significant contributions to infrastructure and media development, including the establishment of Triumph Publishing Company and City Television, while playing a pioneering role in labour rights by becoming the first Nigerian governor to officially recognise May 1 as Workers’ Day. Rimi’s government abolished controversial taxes such as haraji (personal tax) and jangali (cattle tax), policies that further endeared him to the masses. Beyond Kano politics, he served as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications between 1993 to 1995 and was also a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) His personal life was marked by tragedy, including the murder of his wife, Hajiya Sa’adatu Rimi, in 2006. He later died at the age of 70 after suffering a stroke. Years after his death, Rimi’s legacy continues to resonate in Kano and beyond, with many recalling his fearless approach to governance and dedication to the common man. In recognition of his contributions, the Kano State Government in 2025 approved the construction of an auditorium in his honour at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) headquarters. As tributes pour in, many Nigerians continue to reflect on his enduring impact, asking what memories his name evokes and how his ideals can shape contemporary leadership.

Education, Kano, News

CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention

By Umar Idris Shuaibu The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), has distributed school uniforms and writing materials to pupils of Kamanda Ruga Settlement Nomadic Primary School in Dansoshiya, Kiru Local Government Area of Kano State. The Executive Director of CITAD, Yunusa Zakari Ya’u, described the intervention as timely, noting that nomadic schools particularly those serving Fulani communities have suffered prolonged neglect from policymakers and government authorities. He stressed the urgent need to prioritise education in such communities, pointing out that many children are being denied their fundamental right to access quality education. “It is imperative to address the neglect faced by nomadic schools, as many children within these communities deserve equal access to education,” he said. Read Also: Beyond the Headlines: The Untold Truth behind Nigeria’s Herders-Farmers Clashes Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Kaduna Why Gobirawa’s Centuries-Old Agrarian Life is at Risk in Kano Earlier, a Fulani leader from the Nomadic Jowrows Association, Malam Idris Shuaibu, commended CITAD for the gesture, describing it as impactful and encouraging for pupils in the community. He noted that the support would boost school attendance and inspire children to pursue education, adding that they represent the future of the community. Malam Idris also called on government at all levels to give greater attention to education, emphasising its importance in harnessing human resources and driving national development. The Headmaster of Kamanda Nomadic Primary School, Nasiru Ibrahim Dangora, expressed appreciation to CITAD for the intervention, while drawing attention to the numerous challenges facing the school. He identified inadequate classrooms, a shortage of teachers for over 300 pupils, lack of toilet facilities, and the absence of basic learning aids such as educational toys needed to motivate the children. Also speaking, the Deputy Director of Nomadic Education at the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board, Ghali Sulaiman, commended CITAD for the initiative, describing it as a rare and impactful intervention. He noted that the school had not benefitted from similar support since its establishment, and praised the organisation for advancing inclusive education in hard-to-reach communities. Sulaiman further highlighted the Kano State Government’s commitment to improving access to education through the construction of nomadic schools across the state. He also urged parents to prioritise formal education for their children, stressing that modern nomadic livelihoods, including cattle rearing and trade, increasingly require basic education and knowledge to remain sustainable. The distribution exercise was supported by teachers of the school, local government officials, traditional authorities, including the Dagacin Dangora, Yusuf Harisu, who represented the District Head of Kiru, as well as other Fulani leaders within the community. The nomadic school was established in 2020 following the implementation of the Ruga settlement initiative by the Kano State Government, under a policy introduced during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The project, executed during the tenure of former Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, was designed to settle nomadic Fulani communities and reduce constant migration by providing basic social amenities, including 25 units of two-bedroom houses, a police outpost, a milk collection centre, and veterinary services, with plans for expansion to accommodate more herders. The initiative was also aimed at addressing recurring clashes between farmers and pastoralists, largely linked to the absence and encroachment of designated grazing reserves and cattle routes.

Kano, News

Kano Govt Moves to Boost Professionalism in Public Information Management

The Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening ethical standards and professional excellence in public information management, as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf declared open a two-day capacity-building workshop for Information and Zonal Information Officers across the 44 local government areas of the state. The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, made this known at the opening ceremony held at Babale Suites in Kano. The workshop is themed “Safeguarding Ethical and Professional Standards in Public Information Management: The Role of Information Officers.” Governor Yusuf described investment in human capital development as a critical driver of effective public administration, noting that continuous training enhances skills, boosts morale, and improves productivity, especially in a rapidly evolving technological environment. He emphasized that his administration would continue to prioritize training and retraining programmes at local, national, and international levels to equip public servants with the necessary knowledge and skills for efficient service delivery. Read Also: Public Trust at Stake: Open Letter Warns Kano Governor Against Questionable Appointments The governor further highlighted the pivotal role of Information Officers in promoting transparency, bridging the gap between government and citizens, and ensuring access to accurate and timely information, particularly in an era increasingly challenged by misinformation and disinformation. According to him, the government relies on Information Officers to provide feedback on public perception, community challenges, and policy impact. He urged them to remain proactive in reporting grassroots developments to support responsive governance and sustainable development. Governor Yusuf also called on public officials at all levels to cooperate with Information Officers to enhance public access to government policies, programmes, and activities, thereby strengthening democratic processes. He assured participants of the government’s commitment to providing modern working tools and a conducive environment to enable them to discharge their duties effectively. The governor also commended the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs for organizing the workshop, noting its potential impact on improving public communication. He specifically praised the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, for his dedication and innovative initiatives aimed at improving the conditions of public communicators within the state civil service. Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, welcomed participants and described the workshop as a demonstration of the ministry’s commitment to excellence in information dissemination and professional development. He expressed appreciation to Governor Yusuf for his continued support for capacity-building initiatives, noting that several training programmes conducted under the current administration have significantly improved the performance and productivity of Information Officers. Waiya stressed the relevance of the workshop’s theme, stating that it would enhance participants’ understanding of ethical standards, transparency, and modern digital communication strategies necessary for effective information management. He reminded Information Officers of their critical role as the link between government and the people, urging them to uphold professionalism, engage actively with the public, and contribute to building trust and confidence in government activities. The commissioner further assured that the ministry would continue to strengthen partnerships with media organisations, professional bodies, and other stakeholders to promote effective communication and capacity development. He also encouraged participants to fully utilise the training to improve service delivery.

Feature, Kano

Public Trust at Stake: Open Letter Warns Kano Governor Against Questionable Appointments

  By Farouk Abba Labaran, Kano A concerned citizen has issued an open letter to the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, urging him to uphold the principles of integrity, accountability, and fear of God in the conduct of governance. The letter, written in a reflective and advisory tone, emphasised that leadership is a sacred trust bestowed by the people, which must be exercised with justice, transparency, and a strong sense of responsibility. According to the writer, the mandate given to the governor by the people of Kano comes with the expectation that public resources would be managed prudently and entrusted only to individuals of proven character and credibility. The author cautioned against appointing individuals with questionable records, particularly those previously linked to corruption or abuse of public trust, warning that such decisions could undermine governance and erode public confidence. Read Also: Former VP Atiku Visits Kwankwaso After Joining ADC Ex-Kano Deputy Governor Gawuna Completes ADC Registration, Receives Membership Card Tinubu Meets Ganduje, Badaru in Separate Aso Rock Consultations “People with histories of financial misconduct or betrayal of public trust should not be entrusted with positions of authority, as they pose a risk to the integrity and effectiveness of government,” the letter stated. The piece further stressed that the inclusion of such individuals in governance structures could lead to systemic inefficiencies, weaken institutional credibility, and slow down development efforts across the state. Highlighting the expectations of the electorate, the writer noted that citizens are increasingly demanding leaders who are honest, God-fearing, and committed to public service without personal interest. The letter also underscored the importance of merit-based appointments, urging the governor to prioritise competence, integrity, and accountability in selecting individuals for key positions. It advised that due diligence be conducted on prospective appointees to safeguard the reputation of the administration and ensure effective service delivery. The author concluded with prayers for divine guidance for the governor, expressing hope that his administration would leave behind a legacy of trust, development, and good governance for the people of Kano State. The development reflects a growing call among citizens for transparency and ethical leadership, particularly at a time when public expectations for accountable governance continue to rise across the country.

Abuja, Kano, Politics

Kano Political Shift: Ganduje Hails Reps’ Defection to APC

By Umar Idris Shuaibu A former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has described the defection of members of the House of Representatives from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the APC as a major boost for the ruling party. Speaking after the development at the National Assembly in Abuja, Dr. Ganduje said the increasing number of defections into the APC reflects the party’s growing strength and national appeal. “This is a plus to our great party, APC, as the number of House of Representatives members continues to increase on a daily basis. We have seen it before in Kano, where NNPP members cross-carpeted to APC. We already have a senator and some members of the House of Representatives, and today we have received another batch, nine members from NNPP to APC,” he said. He described the move as a moment of celebration, expressing confidence in the party’s future electoral prospects. Read Also: Tinubu Meets Ganduje, Badaru in Separate Aso Rock Consultations APC Northwest Congress: Ganduje Attends Key Party Gathering in Kaduna APC Unveils Full NWC List as Yilwatda, Basiru Retain Top Positions “As you can see, today is a day of celebration. We are optimistic that 2027 is assured for Mr President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as for our governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and all our members in the National and State Assemblies,” Ganduje added. The former governor also commended the President for providing what he described as an enabling political environment that continues to attract members of other parties into the APC. “We are very happy about this development, and we thank Mr President for creating an environment that encourages others to join APC. We assure them of full integration into the party. We are now one like a compound, not a mixture. Anyone familiar with Chemistry understands what a compound is,” he said. On the party’s recent national convention, Dr. Ganduje explained that the adoption of consensus candidates helps to reduce internal friction. “Consensus has two stages, that is consensus and affirmation. It is similar to an election because it reduces friction, unnecessary disagreements, and tendencies that could lead to anti-party activities,” he noted. Meanwhile, at least eight members of the House of Representatives from Kano State formally announced their defection from the NNPP to the APC on the floor of the National Assembly. The lawmakers who defected include: Hon. Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe (Dawakin Tofa/Rimin Gado/Tofa) Hon. Garba Ibrahim Diso (Gwale) Hon. Hassan Shehu Hussain (Nassarawa) Hon. Idris Dankawu (Kumbotso) Hon. Muhammad Chiroma Nalaraba (Gezawa/Gabasawa) Hon. Barrister Rabi’u Yusuf (Takai/Sumaila) Hon. Dr. Ghali Mustapha Tijjani (Albasu/Gaya/Ajingi) Hon. Barrister Muhammad Bello Shehu (Fagge) The defections were formally announced during plenary, where the lawmakers cited reasons for their decision to join the APC. Reports indicate that prominent political figures attended the event, including Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Dr. Ganduje, alongside other party leaders.

Kano, News, Politics

Ex-Kano Deputy Governor Gawuna Completes ADC Registration, Receives Membership Card

By Umar Idris Shuaibu A former Deputy Governor of Kano State, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after completing his registration and receiving his membership card in his Gawuna Ward. Gawuna was accompanied during the exercise by former Kano State Governor and ex-presidential candidate, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, a dominant political figure in Kano who also recently joined the ADC following his resignation from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The development comes on the heels of Gawuna’s resignation as Chairman of the Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), as well as his exit from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Read Also: APC Founded to Drive Change, Reduce Poverty — Tinubu Kwankwaso Officially Joins ADC After Quitting NNPP Gawuna’s journey from Kano politics to national service His defection is seen as part of the growing political realignments in Kano State, as key actors reposition ahead of future electoral contests. Observers say the presence of Kwankwaso at the registration underscores the strengthening alliance within the ADC, which is rapidly emerging as a platform for opposition convergence in the state and beyond.

Kano, News, Politics

Ex-Kano Deputy Governor Gawuna Dumps APC, Signals Possible New Alignment

By Umar Idris Shuaibu A former Deputy Governor of Kano State, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, has resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a move that adds to ongoing political realignments in the state. Gawuna’s resignation was conveyed in a letter dated March 29, 2026, addressed to the APC chairman of Gawuna Ward in Nassarawa Local Government Area, where he described the decision as “voluntary and personal.” “I hereby formally resign my membership from the All Progressives Congress (APC), effective March 29, 2026,” the letter read. Read Also: Gawuna Resigns as FMBN Board Chairman, Signals Political Move Ahead of Defection The former deputy governor expressed appreciation to the party for the opportunities afforded him during his time as a member. Gawuna, who was the APC governorship candidate in Kano State during the 2023 general elections, is expected to visit his ward in Nassarawa Local Government Area on Tuesday to formally register as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move that could confirm speculations about his next political destination. However, his resignation comes at a time of heightened political activity and shifting alliances in Kano State ahead of future electoral contests. Sources close to the former deputy governor revealed that he is expected to hold a crucial meeting with former Kano State governor, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, on Monday night at the latter’s residence on Miller Road in Kano.

Humanitarian, Kano, News

CoP Engages Kano Assembly Leadership on Health Funding, Policy Gaps

By Umar Idris Shuaibu The Kano Community of Practice on Accountability (CoP) has called for improved service delivery, timely release of funds, and strengthened legislative oversight following an advocacy visit to the Kano State House of Assembly. The delegation, led by its Chairman, Comrade Salisu Yusuf, met with the Clerk and Permanent Secretary of the Assembly, Malam Nasiru Magaji, in Kano. Speaking during the visit, Yusuf said the engagement was part of efforts to address gaps identified in the CoP scorecard, particularly in service delivery and budget implementation within the state. He explained that the group had initially planned to meet with the House Committee on Health but had to redirect the visit after learning that members of the committee were away on official engagements. Read Also: Radiographers Oppose Health Bills, Warn of Threat to Professional Autonomy BOOST Project Strengthens Community Mobilisation Through Kano Tricycle Associations Forum Ajumawa Commends Community of Practice on Accountability Over Zero-Dose Project “We used the opportunity to meet with the Clerk/Permanent Secretary to share our findings and explore ways to improve service delivery, ensure timely release of funds, and strengthen the oversight functions of the Assembly,” Yusuf said. The CoP chairman noted that key concerns raised during the meeting included gaps in budget tracking and delays in fund releases, which he said have implications for effective healthcare service delivery. Responding, Magaji assured the delegation of the Assembly’s commitment to addressing the issues raised. He pledged to explore mechanisms that would enhance oversight functions to ensure timely disbursement of funds. On policy development, the Clerk advised the group to channel proposals through legislative processes, including presenting them as private bills to be sponsored by lawmakers or supported by development partners for consideration by the Assembly. Magaji commended the CoP for its advocacy efforts and reaffirmed the Assembly’s readiness to support initiatives that promote the development and well-being of residents across Kano State. As part of the visit, the CoP chairman, alongside Kano-based journalist Umar Idris Shuaibu, presented a branded T-shirt and cap from the BOOST Project to Magaji as a gesture of appreciation. The BOOST Project, currently being implemented in Gezawa and Ungoggo Local Government Areas, is designed to improve immunisation coverage and reduce the number of zero-dose and missed vaccinations among children. Implemented by Save the Children International with support from GlaxoSmithKline, the initiative aims to deploy scalable strategies to enhance access to life-saving vaccines, with plans underway to expand its reach to other parts of the state. Stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between government institutions and development partners would significantly improve immunisation outcomes and overall healthcare delivery for children in Kano State.  

Kano, News, Politics

Kano South Lawmakers Hold Crucial Talks Over Political Future, Raise Concerns Against Governor Yusuf

By Umar Idris Shuaibu Lawmakers representing Kano South Senatorial District on Monday convened a high-level meeting in Abuja to deliberate on their political future, amid growing dissatisfaction with the leadership of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf. The meeting, described by insiders as “critical,” was led by Senator Kawu Sumaila and held at his office, drawing the attendance of key members of the House of Representatives, including Alhassan Ado Doguwa, Kabiru Alhassan Rurum, Abdulmumin Jibrin and Abdullahi Rogo. The development comes on the heels of a noticeable rift within political ranks in Kano, following the reported absence of Sumaila and Rurum from an enlarged meeting earlier convened by Governor Yusuf with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State and National Assembly. An aide to Senator Sumaila, Muttaka Babura, told ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ that the Abuja meeting though close door centred on charting a new political direction for Kano South, citing what participants described as “political neglect” of the zone by the state government. Read Also: Radiographers Oppose Health Bills, Warn of Threat to Professional Autonomy Gawuna Resigns as FMBN Board Chairman, Signals Political Move Ahead of Defection Kwankwaso Officially Joins ADC After Quitting NNPP Sources at the meeting revealed that the lawmakers raised concerns over alleged marginalisation, claiming that key decisions affecting Kano South were being taken without adequate consultation with elected representatives and stakeholders from the region. “We are engaging with serving and former lawmakers, as well as party leaders who have recently been sidelined from Kano South,” a source disclosed. “We are also consulting prominent businessmen, clerics and other stakeholders to determine the best political path forward.” Despite the growing tension, another source indicated that the aggrieved lawmakers may hold a meeting with Governor Yusuf later on Monday night to present their position and explore possible resolutions. While there has been no official confirmation of a planned defection, speculations are mounting over a possible alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), especially if ongoing grievances remain unresolved.

Kano, National, Politics

Kwankwaso Officially Joins ADC After Quitting NNPP

By Umar Idris Shuaibu Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and ex-Governor of Kano State, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a significant development in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. Kwankwaso completed his registration with the party on Monday at Gidan Kwankwasiyya, Miller Road, Bompai, Kano, where he was issued his membership card in the presence of top opposition figures. Among those who attended the event were ADC National Chairman and former Senate President, David Mark; former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi; Dino Melaye; and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, among others. The defection follows Kwankwaso’s resignation from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), which he announced on Sunday, citing the need for strategic political realignment. Read Also: Gawuna Resigns as FMBN Board Chairman, Signals Political Move Ahead of Defection “I wish to formally announce my resignation from the New Nigeria Peoples Party with immediate effect,” he said in a statement. The former Minister of Defence described his decision as difficult, given his longstanding role within the party, but emphasised that prevailing political realities necessitated a new direction. “As a committed and bona fide member of the party, this was not an easy decision to make. However, considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” Kwankwaso stated. He expressed appreciation to the NNPP leadership, including National Chairman Ajuji Ahmed, as well as members of the party’s National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and supporters across all levels. Kwankwaso also acknowledged the commitment of members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, noting that their shared political vision would continue to shape future engagements. “We shall continue to collaborate and work together towards charting a better and more prosperous future for our dear nation,” he added. Political observers say the move signals a major shift in opposition dynamics, as key figures continue to realign in preparation for the 2027 general elections, potentially reshaping the balance of power across the country.

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