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Kano, National, News

Meet Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, NERC Chairman

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), marking a major leadership shift in the country’s electricity regulatory body. The appointment was announced in a statement released Thursday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. The nomination, which is subject to Senate confirmation, also includes Mr. Abubakar Yusuf as Commissioner for Consumer Affairs and Dr. Fouad Olayinka Animashun as Commissioner for Finance and Management Services. To ensure a seamless transition, Engr. Ramat is expected to assume office in an acting capacity pending his confirmation by the Senate, in accordance with statutory provisions. Read Also: Why Kano APC Backs Ganduje, Declares Him ‘Undisputed Leader’ of the Party President Tinubu urged the nominees to apply their expertise and experience in advancing the administration’s power sector reforms, particularly in strengthening regulatory oversight and consumer protection. A Brief Profile of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat Born in 1985, Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat is a seasoned electrical engineer, technology entrepreneur, and public servant from Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State. He began his educational journey at a community primary school in his locality and continued at Government Technical College, Ungogo, for his junior secondary education. He completed his senior secondary education at Dawakin Tofa Science College before proceeding to Bayero University, Kano, where he graduated with a Second Class Upper Division in Electrical Engineering. While still an undergraduate, Engr. Ramat demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial spirit by founding AG Ramat Global Links in 2008, a tech-driven company focused on IT and computer-based solutions. He later earned a Master’s degree in Telecommunications from Jodhpur International University, India, and went on to complete a PhD in Strategic Management from Lincoln University. Engr. Ramat also acquired several executive certifications from renowned global institutions, including Harvard University (Big Data Analytics and Civic Engagement), Google (Workshop Administration), Microsoft (Azure Solutions Architect Expert), and Gonzaga University (Power Transmission and Distribution Systems). In 2018, he ventured into partisan politics by contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives to represent Ungogo and Minjibir Constituency under the platform of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP). Though he did not win, his candidacy energized political awareness and engagement at the grassroots level. His rise in public service is closely linked to his mentorship under the former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Recognizing Ramat’s talent and capacity, Dr. Ganduje appointed him as Managing Director of the Kano Street Light Project, a key infrastructure initiative under the state government. Later, Ganduje supported his successful bid to become Chairman of Ungogo Local Government Area (2021–2024), where he made a notable impact by introducing Nigeria’s first blockchain-based decentralized e-identity system — a reform that revolutionized local citizen registration through the issuance of tamper-proof indigene and residency ID cards. Ramat’s tenure as local government chairman was widely praised for its innovation, transparency, and youth engagement, further cementing his reputation as one of Kano’s emerging technocrats with both administrative and digital savvy. His recent nomination to head NERC is seen as a strategic move to inject fresh perspective, modern regulatory tools, and technical leadership into Nigeria’s electricity sector. With his diverse academic background, international exposure, and solid track record in both private enterprise and public office, Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat is widely expected to lead the Commission into a new era of performance, reform, and consumer-centered regulation.

Kano, News

Popular Skit Maker Dan Bello Loses Father

Popular social media influencer and skit maker, Bello Habib Galadanci, widely known as Dan Bello, has lost his father. The news of the passing was confirmed on Thursday via a post shared by Barrister Abba Hikima, a close associate of the entertainer, on his verified Facebook page. Read Also: BUK Mourns Murdered Student, Assures Support for Justice The condolence message, written in Hausa, read: “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Allah ya yi wa mahaifin Dr. Bello Galadanci (Dan Bello) rasuwa yanzun nan. Allah ya gafarta masa. Ameen.” Messages of sympathy have since poured in from fans and fellow creatives mourning the loss alongside Dan Bello.

Crime, Kano, News

Kano Government Media Aide Dies After Brutal Attack by Hoodlums

Sadiq Gentle, a Senior Special Reporter attached to the Kano State Ministry of History and Culture and working with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s media team, has died from injuries sustained during a recent attack by suspected hoodlums. Gentle passed away at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano, days after he was reportedly assaulted at his residence. Sources say the assailants inflicted deep machete wounds on him during the violent attack. Read Also: BUK Mourns Murdered Student, Assures Support for Justice His death has triggered an outpouring of grief from colleagues, associates, and members of the public, many of whom have described him as a dedicated journalist and public servant. As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, there are growing calls from the media community and civil society for a thorough investigation and for those responsible to be brought to justice. (Nigerian Tracker)

Crime, Kano, News

BUK Mourns Murdered Student, Assures Support for Justice

The Management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic death of Umar Abdullahi Hafizi, a 300-level student of the Department of Sociology, who was fatally stabbed by phone snatchers at his residence in Dorayi Quarters, Gwale Local Government Area, around 11:00 p.m. Although the incident occurred outside the university premises, the institution has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students. In a condolence message, the university extended heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Umar, describing his death as a painful loss to the entire university community. Read Also: Governor Yusuf Presents ₦5 Million Each and Plots of Land to Families of 22 Fallen Kano Athletes The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, speaking on behalf of the Management, assured that BUK is working closely with security agencies to ensure those responsible for the heinous act are apprehended and brought to justice. As part of its immediate response, the University facilitated the transportation of the deceased’s body to his hometown in Zaria, Kaduna State, where he was laid to rest according to Islamic rites. The University has called on students to remain calm and vigilant, and urged members of the public to cooperate with security operatives by providing any useful information that could assist in the ongoing investigation. In a statement issued by the University’s Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba Azare, BUK prayed for the repose of the soul of Umar Abdullahi Hafizi and for the Almighty to grant his family the strength to bear the irreparable loss.

Humanitarian, Kano, News

Governor Yusuf Presents ₦5 Million Each and Plots of Land to Families of 22 Fallen Kano Athletes

The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has presented ₦5 million and plots of land to the families of 22 Kano athletes who tragically lost their lives in a motor accident on May 31, 2025. The athletes were returning from the National Sports Festival held in Ogun State when the accident occurred. This was disclosed in a statement issued to journalists in Kano by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Ibrahim Adam. During the Kano State Executive Council meeting held at the Governor’s Lodge in Kwankwasiyya City, Governor Yusuf suspended proceedings to receive and console the bereaved families. According to Ibrahim Adam, the Governor described the athletes as “heroes of Kano” and emphasized the state’s commitment to honoring their memory. Read Also: Kano Government to Convert Historic Kurmawa Prison into Heritage Museum “The Governor listened to the families with compassion and immediately directed that all donations collected for them be disbursed without delay,” Ibrahim Adam stated. Breakdown of Donations to Families and Survivors A total of ₦6,709,375 has been raised and distributed to the families of the deceased volleyball players and injured survivors, according to Ibrahim Adam, a representative of the organizing committee. The funds were contributed by various individuals and organizations, including Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Remi Bola Tinubu, who donated ₦110 million — ₦5 million each to the families of the 22 deceased players. The Ogun State Government also contributed ₦32 million, covering ₦1 million each for the 22 deceased and 10 injured victims. Additionally, Engr. Sagir Ibrahim Koki donated ₦2.2 million as part of general support to the affected families, while the Volleyball Association of Nigeria provided ₦500,000 in solidarity. All contributions have been disbursed to the intended beneficiaries, providing much-needed relief and support in the wake of the tragic incident. Each bereaved family received ₦6,709,375, while each injured athlete received ₦1,709,375. “This is a reflection of national solidarity and empathy,” Ibrahim Adam noted. In addition to the donations, Governor Yusuf pledged ₦5 million and a plot of land to each of the 22 bereaved families. Survivors of the accident will also receive ₦2 million and a plot of land each. “This is the Governor’s personal commitment to ensuring that these families are not forgotten,” Ibrahim Adam emphasized. According to Ibrahim Adam, the total support package for each bereaved family amounts to ₦11,709,375 plus a plot of land, while each injured survivor will receive ₦3,709,375 and a plot of land. Governor Yusuf concluded the session with prayers for the deceased and appreciation for all donors. “May Allah reward everyone who contributed and grant eternal rest to our fallen athletes,” Ibrahim Adam conveyed. This act of compassion and leadership by Governor Yusuf has been widely praised across Kano State, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens said Ibrahim.

Kano, National, Politics

Why Kano APC Backs Ganduje, Declares Him ‘Undisputed Leader’ of the Party

Following a recent strategic gathering of key All-Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders at the residence of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje in Kano, one observation stood out, although Ganduje himself was not physically present, the meeting sent a strong and unified message of total loyalty to his leadership. The stakeholders reaffirmed their full support for him as the undisputed political leader of the APC in Kano State and pledged their commitment to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid ahead of 2027. Some observers had questioned the absence of Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, from the high-level meeting. However, political analysts quickly clarified that nearly all Kano APC political appointees, elected officials, and notable figures were in attendance. Only those with valid and verifiable reasons were absent, notably former Speaker Alhassan Ado Rurum and Rep. Sha’aban Ibrahim Sharada, who were in London to pay a courtesy visit to Ganduje himself. More than 80 percent of current Kano APC members either worked directly under Ganduje or served with him closely during his tenure, making the show of solidarity not just political, but deeply personal. Related: How Kano People Missed Dr. Ganduje As the APC continues to navigate internal alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, one truth is increasingly evident in Kano, the party’s resolute support for Ganduje remains unshaken. While outsiders may view this allegiance as predictable, those within the party describe it as rooted in a legacy of structure, empowerment, and political stewardship that continues to shape the APC’s direction statewide and across the Northwest. Dr. Ganduje, the immediate past Governor of Kano State and former National Chairman of the APC, is widely regarded as the pillar upon which the party stands in Kano. His political structure, the Gandujiyya Movement, is one of the most organized and far-reaching in the region, built on years of grassroots empowerment, deliberate political inclusiveness, and calculated strategy. He is credited with solidifying the party’s fortunes during his time in office, especially during the challenging 2019 re-election, which he won despite intense opposition. Under his leadership, the APC retained legislative dominance in Kano, contributed major votes to presidential contests, and built influential alliances across the region. Even after leaving office in 2023, Ganduje remained instrumental in the party’s campaign messaging and grassroots mobilization particularly in Northern Nigeria during the emergence of President Tinubu. Read Also: Ganduje’s Enduring Relevance: A Political Legacy That Transcends Tenure Ganduje’s commitment to youth and women empowerment, his appointments of loyalists to positions of relevance, and his ability to carry party members along have all helped cement his legacy within the APC. From ward leaders to technocrats, many within the party view him as a father figure and political mentor. Beyond Kano, Dr. Ganduje has maintained relevance at the national stage. As APC National Chairman, though briefly, he played a pivotal role in addressing party crises in key states, working to promote internal reconciliation and unity. His defence of Northern political interests during the build-up to the 2023 elections earned him further credibility within the region’s political elite. Despite opposition from the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Kano, Ganduje remains the rallying point for APC loyalists across the state. His absence from public office has not diminished his influence, rather has amplified his stature as the party’s strategic thinker and silent kingmaker. To Kano APC members, Ganduje is not just a former governor, but the engine behind the party’s survival and relevance. His loyalists continue to believe that the path to victory in 2027 lies in preserving his political structure and aligning with President Tinubu’s national agenda. The recent show of support from stakeholders reaffirms this belief. Understanding why Kano APC stands behind Ganduje is to understand the values of loyalty, political structure, and consistent leadership. His name continues to resonate across wards, local governments, and federal circles. As preparations for 2027 begin to unfold, the Ganduje factor remains central not just in Kano, but in the North, and by extension, the country at large. Umar Idris Shuaibu is a journalist and writes from Kano.

Feature, Kano, Profile

Kano’s Unsung Reformer: Dr. Hussaini Ganduje’s Legacy in Public Service and Community Leadership

Dr. Hussaini Umar Ganduje, a seasoned administrator, political actor, and community leader, has spent decades walking the delicate line between tradition and transformation, civil service and politics, local identity and national relevance. Born in Ganduje town in Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area of Kano State, his journey began with foundational Islamic education at a traditional Qur’anic school, makarantar allo, before progressing through the formal educational system. That journey culminated in a doctorate degree, a testament to his commitment to knowledge and public advancement. His entry into public life came during the era of the defunct Social Democratic Party, when he was elected Chairman of Dawakin Tofa Local Government. In that position, he became a bridge between grassroots needs and state-level governance, setting the tone for what would become a lifetime of public service. He later served as Commissioner (II) with the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), where he contributed significantly to the development of the basic education sector. Dr. Hussaini’s performance and dedication saw him appointed Executive Secretary of the Kano State Senior Secondary Schools Management Board during the first tenure of his elder brother, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, as Governor of Kano State. From there, he rose to the apex of civil service when he was promoted to the rank of Permanent Secretary, one of the most prestigious positions in the state bureaucracy. Related: Ganduje’s Legacy: Charting the Journey of a Political Titan Recognized for his vision in expanding access to education, he was later appointed Vice President (Northwest) of the National Open University of Nigeria. There, he championed distance learning and promoted inclusive education across communities in the Northwest, further cementing his status as a reform-minded leader with a national outlook. Beyond the formal structures of public office, Dr. Hussaini has played a vital role in mentoring and guiding young people, especially those from Ganduje and Dawakin Tofa, into careers in civil service and public administration. His legacy of support has opened doors for many young professionals across Kano and beyond. As a proud son of Fulani heritage, Dr. Hussaini also carved a niche in community leadership. He served two terms as Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Kano State, where he worked to resolve farmer-herder conflicts and build frameworks for peaceful coexistence. His credibility among pastoralist communities and conflict stakeholders earned him further recognition, culminating in his election as the Northwest Zonal Chairman of MACBAN. Read Also: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje In 2021, his leadership came into focus again during the Fulani Enumeration Exercise in Kano State, conducted under the Fulani Coalition. That exercise produced critical demographic data which informed national policy, including the eventual establishment of Nigeria’s first Ministry of Livestock Development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Outside of public administration, Dr. Hussaini is a businessman and a dedicated farmer. His investments in agriculture and enterprise have empowered many within his local community and contributed to employment generation in rural areas. Described by many as a “goldfish with no hiding place,” Dr. Hussaini remains a quiet but towering figure, whose impact resonates deeply with those who know his story. His decades of service reflect a life built on integrity, sacrifice, and transformation qualities that have made him not just a figure in Kano’s history, but one of its most enduring custodians of progress. With strong political roots in Kano North Senatorial District, and an enduring presence in the Gandujiyya movement, Dr. Hussaini continues to shape Kano’s political and developmental narrative. He is widely regarded as a mentor, a guide, and a bridge between generations steadfast in his commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and public service.

Kano, News

Kano Commissioner for Transport Resigns Over Drug Suspect Bail Controversy

Kano State Commissioner for Transportation, Ibrahim Ali Namadi, has resigned from his position amid public backlash surrounding his involvement in securing bail for a suspected drug trafficker, Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu. The development comes shortly after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf received the report of a committee set up to investigate the incident. In a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the embattled commissioner said his resignation was in the public interest, considering the sensitivity of the matter and the administration’s strong stance against drug-related offences. Read Also: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje “As a member of an administration that has consistently championed the fight against the sale and consumption of illicit drugs, it behoves me to take this step painful as it may be,” Namadi said. While maintaining his innocence, Namadi noted the importance of public perception and the need to safeguard the integrity of the administration. “I cannot ignore the weight of public opinion and the need to protect the values we have collectively built,” he added. He expressed gratitude to Governor Yusuf for the opportunity to serve, pledging continued loyalty to the vision and principles of the administration. Governor Yusuf accepted the resignation and used the occasion to reaffirm his government’s zero-tolerance stance on drug-related crimes and other social vices. He also advised political appointees to act with discretion on sensitive matters and seek appropriate clearance before getting involved in public issues.

Crime, Kano, News

Kano Governor Receives Report on Commissioner’s Role in Drug Suspect’s Bail

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has received the report of the committee set up to investigate the involvement of the Commissioner for Transport, Ibrahim Namadi, in securing bail for a suspected drug trafficker, Sulaiman Aminu Danwawu. The committee, chaired by Barrister Aminu Hussain who also serves as the Governor’s Special Adviser on Justice and Constitutional Matters, submitted its findings on Monday to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim. Barrister Hussain disclosed that the committee interviewed all parties connected to the case, including the commissioner, who provided a written statement. Others questioned included Abubakar Umar Sharada, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Mobilisation, and Musa Ado Tsamiya, SSA on Drainages. Read Also: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje “We engaged with relevant security and legal institutions such as the Department of State Services (DSS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to ensure the integrity and legal grounding of our report,” Hussain stated. He emphasized that the committee operated independently without any interference from the Governor. “We were given full freedom to conduct our assignment fairly and transparently,” he added. The committee also reviewed certified legal documents pertaining to the case. Receiving the report, the SSG commended the committee for its professionalism and timely delivery. “You have done your work diligently and within the timeframe. I assure you the report will be delivered to His Excellency immediately for prompt review,” he said. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, in a brief remark, assured that his administration would act swiftly on the committee’s recommendations.

Feature, Kano, National, Politics

Ganduje’s Legacy: Charting the Journey of a Political Titan

Democracy, simply defined as a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, is a globally accepted system where citizens participate in governance through voting. At its core, democracy emphasizes service to the people, as leaders are entrusted with power by the electorate and are expected to act in their best interest. Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the country has experienced multiple transitions in leadership. Kano State, like other parts of the federation, has witnessed its share of elected leaders. However, the administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who served as Governor from 2015 to 2023, is widely acknowledged as one of the most transformative and people-focused in the history of the state. Ganduje’s tenure was marked by unprecedented infrastructural growth, modernization of public services, investments in education, youth empowerment, and the promotion of Islamic and cultural values. Even his critics admit that the scale of development achieved under his leadership left a lasting impact on Kano State and its people. Related: Kano APC Stakeholders Drum Support for Tinubu’s Second Term, Reaffirm Loyalty to Ganduje What sets Dr. Ganduje apart is not only the visible projects he delivered but the systems he institutionalized. He groomed a new generation of political actors, many of whom are now holding public offices. His governance style emphasized discipline, accessibility, continuity, and a strategic vision that bridged traditional values with modern governance. Born in Ganduje town of Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area, Dr. Ganduje’s humble beginnings are grounded in Islamic education and a strong academic background. He earned his degrees from renowned institutions including Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and served meritoriously in the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) before making his mark in politics, rising from Commissioner to Deputy Governor, then two-term Governor, and now Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). His influence has continued to grow nationally. As former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ganduje was instrumental in resolving internal party disputes, spearheading high-profile defections, and strengthening the ideological and structural base of the APC through initiatives such as the establishment of the Progressive Institute. Read Also: How Kano People Missed Dr. Ganduje This rising national profile was evident during a recent strategic APC stakeholders’ meeting in Kano, where party leaders unanimously reaffirmed their undisputed loyalty to Dr. Ganduje and endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027. The gathering, held at Ganduje’s residence, drew key political figures including the Kano APC Chairman, federal lawmakers, minister of state FCT, and former gubernatorial candidates, who praised Ganduje’s leadership and commitment to party cohesion. Kano APC Chairman Abdullahi Abbas noted that the gathering was a testament to Ganduje’s enduring influence and the trust he commands within the party structure. He emphasized the importance of unity and electoral preparedness, clearly attributing these qualities to Ganduje’s guidance and political dexterity. The strategic alignment between Dr. Ganduje and President Tinubu was also recognized. Ganduje was among the earliest northern leaders to publicly align with Tinubu ahead of the 2023 elections, a move that significantly shaped APC’s momentum and support base in the North. President Tinubu, in turn, has publicly commended Ganduje for his crucial contributions to the party’s electoral victories and internal stability. Ganduje’s political trajectory continues to reflect a man deeply rooted in public service, strategic leadership, and national development. Whether in the realm of infrastructure, youth development, party leadership, or political mentorship, his impact resonates beyond Kano and reverberates across Nigeria’s political spectrum. As preparations for the 2027 general elections quietly build up, stakeholders within the APC, and indeed across the political landscape are increasingly recognizing Dr. Ganduje’s role as not just a political figure but a pillar of strategic vision and continuity. His legacy is not merely one of past achievements, but of ongoing influence, thoughtful engagement, and a commitment to shaping the future of Nigeria’s democracy through unity, inclusion, and development. Umar is a journalist and writes from Kano.

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