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Kano families abandon cooking gas as refill costs hit record high

Kano families abandon cooking gas as refill costs hit record high

Kwankwaso will destroy your presidential ambition – Primate Ayodele tells Peter Obi

Kwankwaso will destroy your presidential ambition – Primate Ayodele tells Peter Obi

CGC Adeniyi Strengthens Global Partnerships at Customs Diplomatic Reception

CGC Adeniyi Strengthens Global Partnerships at Customs Diplomatic Reception

Ansary Yusuf Emerges YPP House of Representatives Candidate for Tarauni

Ansary Yusuf Emerges YPP House of Representatives Candidate for Tarauni

Northern Youth Assembly Accuses Kwankwaso of Abandoning Core Northern Ideals

Northern Youth Assembly Accuses Kwankwaso of Abandoning Core Northern Ideals

Photos: How Kano Government-Owned Television Station Became a Source of Commercial Firewood

Photos: How Kano Government-Owned Television Station Became a Source of Commercial Firewood

Ododo Hands Over Modern Crime-Fighting Facility to Police in Kogi

Ododo Hands Over Modern Crime-Fighting Facility to Police in Kogi

NNPC Foundation Donates MRI Machine to National Orthopedic Hospital Dala

NNPC Foundation Donates MRI Machine to National Orthopedic Hospital Dala

UNICEF expands digital learning programme to tackle school dropout, youth unemployment

UNICEF expands digital learning programme to tackle school dropout, youth unemployment

National

Abuja, Feature, Kano, National

Ganduje Bows Out with Legacy of Political Impact, Party Growth, and National Reach

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Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s journey through the highest ranks of political leadership from Governor of Kano State to National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has left an indelible imprint on Nigeria’s political landscape. As he voluntarily steps down from his position as APC Chairman, citing health considerations, reflections on his tenure reveal a legacy defined by influence, strategic consolidation, and unwavering loyalty. Appointed on August 3, 2023, Ganduje assumed leadership of the APC at a critical juncture. The party was in need of internal cohesion, grassroots consolidation, and a clear strategy heading into future elections. His tenure delivered just that ushering in visible political gains and stabilizing the ruling party across multiple fronts. Under his stewardship, the APC experienced robust expansion. High-profile defections significantly shifted the political balance. Notably, two sitting governors, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom joined the APC, alongside their deputies, cabinet members, and key state legislators. The defection of former vice-presidential candidate and PDP stalwart Ifeanyi Okowa added to the party’s rising strength in both the National Assembly and at the grassroots. Related: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future In Kano, Ganduje’s political influence remained formidable. He attracted key figures back into the APC fold, including former Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly and current federal lawmaker Kabiru Alhassan Rurum (Rano/Bunkure/Kibiya), Senator representing Kano South Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, and the former Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Baffa Bichi. These moves further demonstrated his enduring grip on Kano’s political terrain. On the national front, Ganduje’s leadership was marked by strategic crisis management and far-reaching reforms. His diplomatic handling of internal crises especially in Ondo and Kogi States was instrumental in preserving party unity. His vision included modernizing the party structure through the introduction of electronic membership registration and laying the foundation for the APC Political Institute, The Progressive Institute (TPI). Read Also: Dr. Ganduje Undertakes Hajj Amid Rising Political Influence TPI recently convened a youth conference addressing the lingering issue of youth unemployment and exploring strategies to groom the next generation of party and national leaders. His commitment to party education and ideological grounding was a hallmark of his reform agenda. Importantly, Ganduje’s national strategy extended beyond numbers. He broadened APC’s reach through regional diplomacy and diaspora engagement. He paid official visits to ruling parties in neighbouring countries such as Ghana to foster political solidarity. During a visit to France a few months ago, he initiated structures aimed at strengthening the APC’s presence among Nigerians in the diaspora. This initiative was part of a long-term vision to align the global Nigerian community with the party’s agenda and mobilize international support. However, his emergence as APC Chairman was not without controversy. The North Central bloc where the position was originally zoned voiced its reservations. Despite this, Ganduje secured a vote of confidence and succeeded in unifying the party around his leadership. His ability to navigate those tensions underscored his political dexterity. Throughout his tenure, Ganduje demonstrated unwavering loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and the APC’s broader vision. He did not hesitate to defend the party’s image, even in contentious situations such as his public call for the removal of Senator Ali Ndume as Senate Chief Whip over perceived disloyalty. It was a bold affirmation of party discipline and allegiance to the presidency. Though he has now relinquished the role of APC chairman, Ganduje continues to serve the country as Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). While this role is more administrative than political, it maintains his presence within federal circles and signals his continued relevance in national affairs. As he steps into a new chapter, Ganduje leaves behind a record marked by coalition-building, electoral expansion, and structural reform. While ongoing legal proceedings, especially in Kano, may pose challenges to his legacy, his contributions to party politics and national development remain significant. Whether this moment signals a quiet retreat or a tactical pose, one thing is clear, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s legacy as a grassroots mobilizer, loyal party builder, and political tactician has already earned him a place in Nigeria’s contemporary political history. Umar Idris Shuaibu is a digital journalist and can be reached via shuaibuumaridris@gmail.com.

Kano, National, News

Saudi Authorities Approve Burial of Aminu Dantata in Madinah

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The Saudi Arabian authorities have approved the transfer and burial of the late Nigerian business mogul, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, in the holy city of Madinah. The development was confirmed on Sunday by Alhaji Mustapha Abdullahi Junaidu, the Private Principal Secretary to the late Dantata, through a post on his verified Facebook page. Read Also: Ganduje Pays Tribute to Aminu Dantata, Hails Legacy of Service and Generosity “It has been confirmed that Aminu Alhassan Dantata will be transported from Abu Dhabi to the holy city of Madinah for his final rites. Authorities have granted the necessary approvals for the transfer, and preparations are underway for the Janazah (funeral prayer), scheduled to take place tomorrow morning, Insha Allah,” Junaidu wrote. He noted that the slight delay in finalizing the burial arrangements was due to the weekend, which affected the pace of processing official documentation and approvals required for the interment. Alhaji Aminu Dantata passed away in Abu Dhabi at the age of 94. His burial in Madinah aligns with his expressed wishes before his death, and plans are now in place to honor those final wishes in accordance with Islamic rites.

National, News

Ganduje Pays Tribute to Aminu Dantata, Hails Legacy of Service and Generosity

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The former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and immediate past Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and prominent business tycoon, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who died at the age of 94. In a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Dr. Ganduje described the late Dantata as an iconic figure in Nigerian commerce, philanthropy, and community development whose legacy will endure for generations. “Alhaji Aminu Dantata was a towering personality whose contributions to Nigeria’s economic progress, especially in the northern region, are unparalleled. His life was defined not only by business excellence but by a deep commitment to humanity. His generosity and dedication to community upliftment made him a symbol of compassion and leadership,” the statement read. Read Also: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future Dr. Ganduje noted that Dantata’s passing is a monumental loss to Kano State and Nigeria as a whole. He said the late elder statesman will be remembered for his wisdom, humility, and far-reaching impact on society. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the Dantata family, the Kano Emirate, the business community, and everyone touched by the remarkable life and work of the deceased. “May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus. We pray for strength and comfort for his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” he added.

National, News

Elder Statesman and Business Mogul Aminu Dantata Passes Away

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One of Nigeria’s most prominent industrialists and elder statesmen, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, has passed away at the age of 94. The announcement of the Kano-born billionaire’s death was made by his Personal Private Secretary (PPS), Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, who wrote in a brief statement: “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un.” Though full details surrounding his passing are still emerging, the news has sent shockwaves across business and political circles, especially in Northern Nigeria, where Dantata remained a towering figure for decades. Read Also: Ganduje Bows Out: APC Acknowledges Resignation, Commends Leadership Alhaji Aminu Dantata was widely respected for his role in expanding the Dantata business empire across various sectors including construction, oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing. As Chairman of Dantata Organization Limited, he played a crucial role in shaping modern commerce in Nigeria and mentoring generations of northern entrepreneurs. A staunch supporter of educational and humanitarian causes, Dantata was known for his philanthropy through scholarships, zakat distributions, and donations to schools, mosques, and health initiatives. He was also a revered Islamic leader, contributing to religious scholarship and Islamic unity. He served as a Minister in the 1960s under the First Republic and was later a member of the Constitutional Conference in the 1990s. His wisdom and guidance were often sought by presidents, governors, and community leaders across the country. Burial arrangements will be announced by the family in accordance with Islamic rites.

National, News, Politics

Ganduje Bows Out: APC Acknowledges Resignation, Commends Leadership

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially confirmed the resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as its National Chairman. The announcement was made in a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, on Friday night. According to the statement, Ganduje cited urgent personal and health-related matters as his reason for stepping down, with the resignation taking immediate effect. The letter was addressed to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) through the National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru. Read Also: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future Morka praised Ganduje’s leadership, highlighting his efforts in strengthening party unity, advancing democratic ideals, and enhancing the APC’s electoral competitiveness. He noted that Ganduje’s tenure saw key defections into the APC and legal victories affirming the party’s leadership. “The confidence placed in him by the NEC and national caucus in February 2025 was a clear recognition of his contributions. He leaves the position with pride in the party’s collective achievements,” the statement read. In the interim, the party has directed Deputy National Chairman (North), Alhaji Ali Bukar Dalori, to assume the role of acting National Chairman, pending the next National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for December.

National, Politics

Bukar Dalori Assumes Role as Acting APC National Chairman

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Following the sudden resignation of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Bukar Dalori, the party’s Deputy National Chairman (North), has taken over in an acting capacity. Dalori’s elevation aligns with Section 14(2)(iii) of the APC Constitution, which mandates that the Deputy National Chairman from the same zone acts in the absence of a substantive chairman. Read Also: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future Though the specific reasons behind the resignation remain unclear, sources cite health concerns and internal political dynamics, including zoning arrangements for the 2027 elections. Observers note that with the possibility of the vice presidency going to the North West, party leadership may shift to the North Central zone. Speculation has already begun about a permanent replacement, with former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Umar Tanko Al-Makura, emerging as a top contender. Dalori will oversee party affairs in an acting capacity pending further decisions by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).

National, News, Politics

Ganduje Resigns as APC National Chairman, Cites Health Reasons

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In a surprising development, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has tendered his resignation as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with immediate effect. Ganduje, a former two-term Governor of Kano State and a prominent northern political figure, said his decision was driven by health concerns that require him to step back from active political leadership and focus on his personal well-being. The announcement comes at a critical time for the ruling party, as it prepares for court-ordered rerun and bye-elections scheduled for August 16, 2025, across 16 constituencies in 12 states. Related: APC’s Rising Star: The Woman Ganduje Trusted with the Future In his resignation letter, Ganduje expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Executive Committee of the APC, and stakeholders nationwide for their support during his tenure. He described his time in office as both an honour and a responsibility and pledged to continue supporting the APC’s mission even outside of formal leadership. “It is with a heavy heart that I tender my resignation as National Chairman of our great party, the APC. After careful consultation with my family and medical advisers, I have decided to step down in order to take care of my health, which I have overlooked for too long while carrying out my responsibilities,” Ganduje stated. Confirming the development, Sanusi Sa’id Kiru, a former Commissioner of Education during Ganduje’s administration in Kano and a Director at The Progressive Institute (TPI), acknowledged the resignation. In a brief statement, Kiru described the move as a difficult but necessary decision, adding that Ganduje’s health and personal well-being must take precedence. Read Also: Tinubu, Governors Join Ganduje to Receive Governor Eno into APC Party sources said that internal consultations are already ongoing within the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) to determine his interim replacement ahead of a likely emergency convention. Ganduje’s resignation brings to a close an eventful tenure as party chairman, during which he focused on internal reconciliation, strategic reforms, and preparation for the 2027 general elections. His leadership, though brief, was marked by an effort to stabilize the party after the transition from the Buhari administration to President Tinubu’s government. As of the time of filing this report, the APC has yet to announce an acting chairman, but several high-ranking members are reportedly positioning themselves to fill the role.

Feature, National, Politics

Ganduje Steps Up as APC Strategist Ahead of August Rerun Elections

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As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) prepares for a series of bye-elections and court-ordered reruns scheduled for August 16, 2025, political momentum is building particularly within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). With 16 constituencies across 12 states heading to the polls, including sensitive zones in Kano, Plateau, Edo, and Anambra, the upcoming vote is shaping into a midterm litmus test for party strength and leadership credibility. Amid this shifting landscape, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the APC, has reemerged at the center of national strategy. His recent attendance at INEC’s quarterly consultative meeting with political parties stood out not just for its symbolism, but also for its sharp contrast. While the APC was fully represented, key opposition parties like the PDP and Labour Party were absent, reflecting the internal crises currently plaguing both. Ganduje’s appearance alongside INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu where the two were seen exchanging handshakes and policy remarks sent a clear message of political preparedness. It wasn’t just a courtesy call, but a calculated reaffirmation that the APC is organized, focused, and ready to engage the electoral process head-on. Related: Ganduje Attends INEC Stakeholders Meeting Amid PDP, LP Boycott Having governed Kano State for two terms, Ganduje is widely regarded as a grassroots tactician with deep influence across Northern Nigeria. His leadership style, marked by firm control and loyalty-building, is now being scaled to the national level. Many within the APC view the upcoming reruns as a proving ground for his ability to deliver electoral victories beyond his traditional stronghold. INEC’s announcement of August 16 as the date for the reruns triggered immediate mobilization within the ruling party. According to party insiders, Ganduje has already begun internal consultations with zonal coordinators, youth mobilizers, and campaign teams. The objective is clear: defend existing seats and reclaim those lost due to judicial verdicts or resignations. In key battlegrounds such as Ghari/Tsanyawa in Kano and Enugu South I in Enugu, the reruns are likely to favor the APC, as the party’s political machinery and grassroots support are already in place. Read Also: Ganduje, Tinubu and the Strengthening of Nigeria’s Democracy Amidst APC Growth While the APC presses forward, the opposition’s internal disarray only enhances the ruling party’s advantage. The PDP is mired in a multi-layered leadership dispute, with ongoing confusion surrounding the rightful occupant of the National Secretary position. Similarly, the Labour Party continues to grapple with legal battles over its national leadership, casting doubt on its ability to field unified candidates or run coordinated campaigns. For Ganduje, the moment also presents an opportunity to restore public confidence in the APC’s direction. Since assuming the chairmanship, he has been working quietly to stabilize intra-party relationships and streamline decision-making ahead of crucial elections. His recent messaging has emphasized discipline, structure, and long-term vision, principles many believe are essential for consolidating power ahead of the 2027 general elections. Beyond short-term electoral gains, Dr. Ganduje’s focus appears to be on legacy-building. By successfully guiding the APC through the August reruns, he would not only validate his capacity as a national leader but also set the tone for the party’s dominance in the years ahead. With President Tinubu’s administration facing scrutiny over economic reforms, security, and youth engagement, Ganduje’s role in maintaining party stability is becoming increasingly consequential. In the end, that handshake with INEC was more than symbolic, it marked the quiet beginning of a political offensive, one in which strategy, timing, and organization could define the trajectory of the APC in an increasingly complex political climate. Umar Idris Shuaibu is a digital journalist writes from Kano.

National, News, Politics

Ganduje Attends INEC Stakeholders Meeting Amid PDP, LP Boycott

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The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) were conspicuously absent as the leadership of political parties in Nigeria met with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for a quarterly consultative meeting held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja. Present at the meeting were chairmen and secretaries of several registered political parties, including Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The meeting was presided over by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu. The absence of PDP officials is believed to be linked to the internal crisis that has fractured the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). At the center of the turmoil is the ongoing dispute over the office of the National Secretary. Until recently, the position has been contested by three individuals. Senator Samuel Anyanwu was rejected by the party’s South East caucus in favor of Mr. Sunday Ude-Okoye, prompting the appointment of Deputy National Secretary, Arc. Setonji Koshedo, in an acting capacity. Related: Tinubu, Governors Join Ganduje to Receive Governor Eno into APC However, in a dramatic turn on Wednesday, Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Ilya Damagum, announced at a press conference that Anyanwu remains the party’s scribe. The announcement was quickly countered by other NWC members, who insisted that Anyanwu is no longer in office. The Labour Party is also entangled in a leadership crisis following the suspension of Julius Abure and the recognition of Senator Nenadi Usman as Acting National Chairman by a faction of the party. During the meeting, Prof. Yakubu announced that a new round of bye-elections will be conducted on Saturday, August 16, 2025, across 16 constituencies in 12 states. He also revealed that INEC will resume the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, beginning in Anambra State on July 8, 2025, with a nationwide rollout expected later in August. The bye-elections are being organized to fill vacancies in two Senatorial Districts, Anambra South and Edo Central, five Federal Constituencies, and nine State House of Assembly seats. The vacancies arose due to deaths, resignations, and court rulings. A total of 3,553,659 registered voters across 32 Local Government Areas, 356 Wards, and 6,987 Polling Units are expected to participate. INEC will deploy 30,451 officials to manage the elections. Read Also: Photos: President Tinubu Signs Landmark Tax Reform Bills into Law However, Yakubu clarified that elections will not take place in Khana II constituency in Rivers State due to prevailing security concerns, and in Talata Mafara South in Zamfara State due to pending litigation. INEC will also conduct two pending court-ordered rerun elections in Enugu South I (Enugu State) and Ghari/Tsanyawa (Kano State), which were previously disrupted by violence. These will be held concurrently with the bye-elections on August 16. According to the INEC chairman, political parties are expected to hold their primaries between July 17 and 21. The nomination portal will open on July 22 at 9:00 a.m. and close on July 26 at 6:00 p.m. Campaigns are scheduled to begin on August 2 and end at midnight on August 14.  

National, News

NNPC Alleges Sabotage Plot to Derail Reform Agenda

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has raised the alarm over what it described as a “coordinated sabotage campaign” orchestrated by a network of internal and external actors aimed at undermining its leadership and reform efforts. In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its management, the national oil company alleged that a syndicate comprising both known and faceless individuals—within and outside the organisation—is actively spreading “lies and misinformation” to derail NNPC’s transformation into a transparent and performance-driven entity. “These are calculated efforts by those who feel threatened by reform, transparency, accountability, and change,” the statement noted, warning that defamatory reports targeting senior executives may intensify in the coming weeks. Read Also: Photos: President Tinubu Signs Landmark Tax Reform Bills into Law NNPC accused the alleged saboteurs of “planting scandalous and fabricated reports” designed to distract the company’s executive team, mislead the public, and weaken staff morale. Although the company did not name specific individuals or organisations, it described the campaign as a direct assault on President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to overhaul the state-owned enterprise. Since its transition into a limited liability company under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) in 2021—following the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act—NNPC has undergone significant restructuring. This transformation accelerated in 2023 and 2024, with a renewed focus on transparency, profitability, and eliminating legacy debts and opaque trading practices. Industry observers note that the ongoing reforms have disrupted long-standing interests within the crude-for-fuel swap arrangements, pipeline surveillance contracts, and the downstream product marketing chain—areas historically linked to corruption and inefficiency. Despite anticipating what it described as an “emerging smear campaign,” NNPC said it remains undeterred. The company called on staff, stakeholders, and all patriotic Nigerians to disregard the “noise” and stay focused on supporting the transformation of Nigeria’s foremost energy institution. The statement did not indicate whether NNPC intends to pursue legal action against those it accuses of sabotage. As of press time, efforts to reach company officials for further comment were unsuccessful. In response to the situation, NNPC is expected to strengthen internal security protocols and improve communication channels to protect staff from disinformation. Civil society organisations are also likely to increase scrutiny over how the company substantiates or fails to substantiate its claims. At the legislative level, the Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) has recently shown interest in deeper oversight of NNPC’s commercial operations, potentially intensifying national focus on the sabotage allegations. For now, the company remains resolute. “No amount of sabotage will stop it,” the statement affirmed.

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