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National, News, Politics

APC releases schedule for 2027 elections, fixes cost nomination form

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released its Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections. This is contained in the Schedule of Activities signed by the Party’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu. The timetable outlines, among other activities, timelines for screening, appeals, and primary elections, as well as directives on the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms. “The APC reassures members, stakeholders, and Nigerians of its commitment to conducting a credible and transparent primary election that will further strengthen the Party’s internal democracy and consolidate its progressive ideals,” the statement added. Read Also: Tinubu Extends Wudil Police Academy to Ogun, Releases ₦15bn Take-Off Fund APC Stakeholders Back Engr. Bichi for Kano Deputy Governor Slot BOOST Project, CoP Seek Legislative Action on Zero-Dose Children in Kano According to the Timetable and Schedule of Activities, sale of forms begins this Saturday, April 25 and ends on Monday, May 4, 2026. It indicated that the presidential primary election holds between May 15 and 16; House of Representatives, May 18; Senate, May 20; State Houses of Assembly, May 21; and the Governorship, May 23, 2026. The schedule further showed that the presidential election appeal takes place on May 18; the House of Representatives,  May 20; Senate, May 21; State Houses of Assembly, May 23; and the Governorship, May 25, 2026. It pegged the cost of the expression of interest form for presidential aspirants at N30 million and nomination form, N70 million, while the expression of interest form for governorship contenders is N10 million and nomination form, N40 million. The party also put the expression of interest for for Senate at N3 million and nomination form, N17 million; for House of Representatives, expression of interest form goes for N1 million and nomination form N9 million, while State House of Assembly expression of interest form is N1 million and nomination form N5 million. It added that female aspirants, youths and physically challenged are to pay for the expression of interest form and 50% of the prescribed nomination fees each.

National, News

Tinubu Extends Wudil Police Academy to Ogun, Releases ₦15bn Take-Off Fund

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new campus of the Nigeria Police Academy in Erinja, Yewa South Local Government Area of Ogun State. The approval was disclosed in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, who also confirmed that the President has sanctioned a special take-off grant of ₦15 billion for the institution. According to the statement, the decision aligns with the provisions of the Nigeria Police Academy (Establishment) Act, 2021, which mandates the expansion of the Police Academy currently located in Wudil into multiple campuses across the country. The intervention fund is expected to be sourced from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) 2026 allocation and will be used to finance key infrastructure, academic facilities, student accommodation, and core training assets. The siting of the new campus followed recommendations from a high-level consultative meeting involving the Minister of Police Affairs Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, Minister of Education Tunji Alausa, officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, the Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) Professor Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu. Read Also: KSP Partners JOSTUM to Offer PGD Courses in Management, Social Sciences The meeting, according to the presidency, carefully considered factors such as student intake capacity, funding realities, academic quality assurance, and the long-term manpower needs of the Nigerian Police Force, which is currently undergoing expansion through increased recruitment. President Tinubu noted that the establishment of the new campus would enhance institutional governance, modernise policing education, and strengthen national security architecture across the country.

Kano, News

Supreme Court Adjourns Kano Emirate Suit to April 2027

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has adjourned the hearing of the Kano Emirate dispute to April 17, 2027. The adjournment was announced on Monday by Adamu Jauro, who presided over the matter. Read Also: APC Stakeholders Back Engr. Bichi for Kano Deputy Governor Slot Details surrounding the proceedings were not immediately disclosed, but the case forms part of ongoing legal battles over the Kano Emirate structure. The development means that parties involved in the dispute will return to court in 2027 as the apex court continues to deliberate on the matter.

Education, Kano, News

KSP Partners JOSTUM to Offer PGD Courses in Management, Social Sciences

The management of Kano State Polytechnic has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University to commence Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) programmes in Management and Social Sciences, in a move aimed at expanding academic opportunities and strengthening higher education delivery. The agreement, led by the Rector of the Polytechnic, Abubakar Umar Farouk, was formalised on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the university’s liaison office in Abuja. The new programmes will be run on a part-time basis under the School of Continuing Education and Postgraduate Studies of the Polytechnic. Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Isaac Nathaniel Itodo, represented by the Dean, Postgraduate School, Raphael A. Ofukwu, commended the Polytechnic’s leadership for its foresight in pursuing the affiliation. Read Also: Kano State Polytechnic Takes Step Toward University-Affiliated PGD Programmes He disclosed that the approval followed a successful resource verification exercise conducted at the Polytechnic between December 11 and 13, 2025, which yielded a favourable report. According to him, the collaboration marks a significant milestone that will enable students to advance their academic pursuits within the Polytechnic system and beyond. In his remarks, the Rector, Dr. Abubakar Umar Farouk, expressed appreciation to the university’s management for granting the affiliation, noting that the partnership would broaden academic horizons for students and enhance access to quality postgraduate education. He also commended the affiliation team for their dedication in ensuring the successful realisation of the initiative. Among top officials of the Polytechnic present at the signing were the Director, School of Continuing Education and Postgraduate Studies, Dr. Ramatu Adamu Mohammed; Director of Consultancy Services, Dr. Awaisu Adamu Salihi; and Coordinator, Programme Visitation, Muhammad Abubakar Hotoro. Approved Postgraduate Diploma Programmes Postgraduate Diploma in Banking and Finance Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology and Management Postgraduate Diploma in Agricultural Marketing Postgraduate Diploma in Community Development Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work Postgraduate Diploma in Local Government Studies Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting and Finance Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration and Management Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration and Human Resource Management Postgraduate Diploma in Procurement and Supply Chain Management Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing Postgraduate Diploma in Cooperatives and Economic Management The development is expected to resuscitate postgraduate education within the Polytechnic system while providing flexible learning opportunities for working-class students and professionals seeking to advance their academic and career prospects.

National, News

Tinubu Signs ₦68.32trn 2026 Budget, Extends 2025 Implementation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, approving a total government expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion for the fiscal year. The President also signed into law an amendment extending the implementation period of the 2025 budget from March 31 to June 30, 2026, to allow for the completion of ongoing projects. Details of the development were contained in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga. According to the statement, ₦4.799 trillion has been allocated for statutory transfers, while ₦15.8 trillion is earmarked for debt servicing. The budget also provides ₦15.4 trillion for recurrent expenditure and ₦32.2 trillion for capital projects through the Development Fund. The presidency noted that capital expenditure accounts for about 50 per cent of the total budget, reflecting the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, economic stability, national security, and inclusive growth. Read Also: APC Chairman Hails Tinubu’s Visit to Plateau, Calls for Decisive Action Against Killers Kano: Ex-Commissioners Back Garo for Deputy Governor, Endorse Appointment CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention It added that the allocations demonstrate a strategic balance between statutory obligations, debt servicing, recurrent spending, and capital investments aimed at boosting productivity and improving the quality of life of Nigerians. The 2026 Appropriation Act took effect from April 1, with implementation already underway in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. President Tinubu also signed the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, extending the capital component of the 2025 budget by three months to June 30. The presidency explained that the extension would ensure optimal utilisation of funds, particularly for key infrastructure projects nearing completion, and enable Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to consolidate ongoing works and improve project delivery. The President further directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to uphold discipline, transparency, and efficiency in the use of public funds, emphasising the need for value for money and timely execution of projects. He also commended the leadership and members of the National Assembly for their diligence and cooperation in the passage of the budget, reiterating the importance of sustained collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government. Tinubu reassured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to deepening fiscal reforms, enhancing revenue generation, and prioritising investments that will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen social protection mechanisms.

Kano, News

NUJ Celebrates Acting PS Usman Bello at Retirement

Members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Information Chapel, alongside directors and staff of the Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, on Thursday celebrated the retirement of Acting Permanent Secretary, Usman Bello, as he attained the age of 60 after over three decades in public service. The send-forth ceremony, held at the ministry’s conference hall within the Audu Bako Secretariat in Kano, attracted colleagues, associates, and well-wishers who paid glowing tributes to the retiree’s contributions to the civil service. In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NUJ Information Chapel, Musbahu Aminu Yakasai, described Bello as an exemplary civil servant whose leadership was defined by humility, courage, and dedication. He highlighted his contributions to both the ministry and the NUJ, particularly his commitment to mentorship and professional excellence. Yakasai, who once served as a Deputy Director under Bello, further commended him as a fair and compassionate leader who nurtured subordinates with integrity and a strong sense of responsibility, offering prayers for divine rewards for his years of service. Read Also: Kano: Ex-Commissioners Back Garo for Deputy Governor, Endorse Appointment Representing the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, congratulated Bello on attaining 60 years and completing 33 years in service, describing the milestone as a reflection of resilience, wisdom, and dedication. He noted that staff training and capacity building remained a priority of the ministry, adding that many of the initiatives were driven by Bello during his tenure as Acting Permanent Secretary. He also disclosed plans to include him in a proposed training committee for information managers, ensuring the ministry continues to benefit from his experience. “The ministry will not forget his contributions to the growth of the information sector and the development of Kano State,” Waiya said. In his response, Bello expressed appreciation for the recognition, describing his 33-year career and attainment of 60 years as fulfilling. He thanked the NUJ Information Chapel, ministry leadership, and staff for organising the event. He also commended the Commissioner, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, for what he described as efforts to resuscitate the Ministry of Internal Affairs and restore its core mandates. Goodwill messages were delivered by colleagues and associates, including Sunusi Abdullahi Kofar Naisa, Maikudi Muhammad Marafa, and Bahijjah Kabara, among others, who acknowledged Bello’s professionalism and impact. The event climaxed with the presentation of an award of honour to Usman Bello by the NUJ Information Chapel in recognition of his outstanding service.

Africa, International, News

South Africa’s Malema Sentenced to Five Years Over Firearms Offences

A South African court has sentenced opposition politician, Julius Malema, to five years in prison after finding him guilty of firearms-related offences. According to reports, Malema was convicted of illegal possession of firearms and discharging a firearm in a public space, following an earlier conviction last year on multiple counts, including reckless endangerment. The incident leading to the charges dates back to 2018, when a video surfaced showing the politician firing a semi-automatic rifle into the air during his party’s fifth anniversary celebration in the Eastern Cape province. Malema is the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, a major opposition party in South Africa known for its advocacy for economic transformation and the rights of black Africans. He is also a former member of the ruling African National Congress. Read Also: BBC to lay off staff over financial pressures Despite the ruling, Malema may avoid immediate imprisonment, as his legal team has indicated plans to appeal the court’s decision. The development marks a significant moment in South Africa’s political landscape, given Malema’s influence and outspoken criticism of the government.

Education, National, News

Over Two Million Candidates Sit as 2026 UTME Begins Nationwide

The 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) commenced nationwide on Thursday, with more than 2.2 million candidates expected to sit for the examination across accredited centres. The examination, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, will run from April 16 to April 22 in multiple sessions scheduled daily. The Registrar of JAMB, Is-haq Oloyede, charged examination officials to demonstrate maximum commitment and professionalism, stressing that the success of the UTME largely depends on their performance and dedication to duty. Oloyede gave the charge during a virtual final briefing for technical officers ahead of the examination, where he commended staff, ad hoc personnel, service providers, and technical advisers for their roles in the successful conduct of the mock examination. Read Also: CITAD Distributes School Materials to Nomadic Pupils in Kano, Urges Increased Govt Intervention KASSOSA, DMCSA Distribute N1.5m Drugs to Science Schools in Kano, Jigawa FG Set to End HND–Degree Divide, Empowers Polytechnics to Award Degrees According to him, most challenges recorded during the mock exercise were linked to inadequate assessment of centres by some technical officials. He added that incentive packages would be provided for teams that demonstrate exceptional performance, particularly in the prompt handling of examination materials and timely submission of reports. The registrar reiterated the board’s zero-tolerance policy on examination malpractice, warning candidates against bringing prohibited items into examination halls. He noted that advanced technology, including biometric verification and real-time monitoring systems, has been deployed to safeguard the credibility of the examination. Oloyede further disclosed that candidates whose biometric details could not be verified would be rescheduled to sit the examination at designated centres approved by the board. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the UTME remains one of the country’s largest coordinated educational exercises, involving extensive logistics, technology deployment, and personnel coordination nationwide. Each examination day is divided into four sessions to reduce congestion at Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres and enhance biometric verification processes. For the 2026 UTME, about 966 CBT centres are participating, each required to meet operational standards, including functional computer systems, stable connectivity, and trained personnel. (NAN)

Education, Humanitarian, Kano, News

KASSOSA, DMCSA Distribute N1.5m Drugs to Science Schools in Kano, Jigawa

The Kano Science Schools Old Students Association (KASSOSA), in collaboration with the Drugs and Medical Consumable Supply Agency (DMCSA), has distributed drugs worth N1.5 million to selected science schools across Kano State and Jigawa State. Speaking during the exercise, the Secretary of KASSOSA and Chairman of the Drugs Distribution Committee, Dr. Kabir Bello Dalha, said boarding schools and girls’ schools were prioritised due to their higher healthcare needs. He explained that a sharing formula was adopted to ensure equitable distribution of the drugs across all benefiting schools. Dr. Dalha also expressed appreciation to the Director-General of DMCSA, Ghali Sule, for initiating and sustaining the gesture since assuming office. Related: Pharmacist Sule Lauds Governor Yusuf Amid DMCSA Achievements DMCSA Clears ₦102m Debt, Raises Capital to Over ₦377m in Kano DMCSA Marks Governor Yusuf’s Birthday With Medical Donation to Schools Earlier, the Director of Educational Support Services, Science and Technical Schools Board, Malam Salisu Auwal, commended the DMCSA for its continued support to the education sector. He also lauded KASSOSA’s national body for its contributions over the years, including school renovations by various class sets and individual members, which he said have significantly strengthened educational development and improved learning conditions for students. Representing the Director-General of DMCSA, the Director of Administration and General Services, Hajiya Aisha Abubakar Magashi, assured that the agency would sustain the initiative. The benefiting schools include Dawakin Kudu Science College, Dawakin Tofa Science College, Day Science College Kano, Government College Kano, Mairo Tijjani Girls Science College, Government Science and Technical School Dala, Maitama Sule Science College Gaya, and Government Girls College. From Jigawa State, the beneficiaries are Jahun Girls Science College, Taura Girls Science College, and Kafin Hausa Boys Science College. Expressing his appreciation, the Principal of Day Science College Kano, Malam Abba Tukur, said the provision of the drugs would enhance students’ well-being and ease the financial burden on them, noting that they previously had to purchase such medications on their own. The intervention is aimed at improving healthcare support for students, particularly in boarding institutions, and enhancing overall learning conditions. Photo News:

Kano, News

Kano Patriotic Front Champions Tree Planting, Youth Innovation, Education

The Kano Patriotic Front has reaffirmed its commitment to the overall development of Kano State, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability through an aggressive tree-planting campaign. The Chairman of the group, Ibrahim Sani (retd.), made this known during a media briefing in Kano, where he outlined key activities and interventions of the association. Major General Sani disclosed that the organisation has embarked on sustained tree-planting initiatives aimed at addressing climate change, reducing harsh weather conditions, and improving the overall well-being of residents. He revealed that the group has already established nursery plantations in Gabasawa and near Federal Government College, Unguwa Uku, with plans to plant 500,000 trees across the 44 local government areas of the state, as part of a broader target of 25 million trees. He noted that most of the trees being distributed are economic trees, provided free of charge to communities, while some are planted directly under the supervision of the association to ensure proper growth and sustainability. Read Also: Kano Patriotic Front Marks Anniversary, Reaffirms Development Agenda Kano Declares Second Term Holiday for Schools Kano CoP Trained on Immunisation Advocacy, Seeks Funding to Tackle Zero-Dose Children Beyond environmental efforts, the chairman highlighted other key developments, including the presentation of a draft report on the Golden Memorial Symposium held in honour of late Head of State, Murtala Ramat Mohammed. According to him, the symposium brought together political leaders, military veterans, academics, and family members to reflect on the enduring legacy of discipline, patriotism, and purposeful leadership associated with the late leader. He said the essence of hosting the symposium was to awaken the younger generation to the exemplary track record of the late leader, which distinguished him as a unique figure in the history of Nigeria and Africa, and to encourage them to emulate his values and put such virtues into practice. He further disclosed that the group has supported education by equipping a Government Secondary School in Gwale with laboratory equipment aimed at enhancing science learning and improving educational standards. In the area of innovation and youth development, Major General Sani expressed the group’s readiness to continue supporting a young technology expert, Khalifa Aminu, who developed a payment solution software in Kano. He said the association has played a mentoring role in nurturing the innovator’s skills, leading to the development of additional technological solutions, including sensor-based smart glasses. The retired military officer emphasised that the Kano Patriotic Front remains committed to initiatives that promote security, education, healthcare, and digital transformation, noting that its interventions are designed to restore Kano’s status as a leading economic and cultural hub in sub-Saharan Africa. He reiterated that environmental sustainability, particularly tree planting, will remain a central pillar of the association’s activities, describing it as critical to the future of Kano and the well-being of its people.

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