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Kaduna, National, News

Rigasa Elders Renew Demand for Local Government Creation at Constitution Review Hearing

Leaders from Rigasa Ward in Kaduna State have renewed their call for the creation of Rigasa Local Government, citing the area’s large population, economic potential, and key federal infrastructure as compelling justification. Speaking to journalists during the Northwest Zonal Public Hearing on the Constitutional Review held on Saturday in Kaduna, Honourable Auwal Orbit, Councillor representing Rigasa Ward in Igabi Local Government Area, led the Rigasa Elders Forum in making a strong case for administrative restructuring. “Rigasa is home to an estimated population of over three million residents. It hosts critical federal infrastructure, including the Kaduna–Abuja Train Station, borders the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), and lies in close proximity to the Kaduna International Airport, managed by FAAN,” Orbit said. “These are sufficient indicators of strategic relevance, making Rigasa more than qualified for local government status.” Read Also: Kaduna State Hosts NWDC Leadership, Pledges Support for Regional Development He also used the opportunity to advocate for local government autonomy, describing it as a necessary step toward improving governance, service delivery, and grassroots development. “An independent and empowered third tier of government will reduce poverty, generate employment, strengthen local security, and empower our youth and women,” he stated. “It also serves as an essential training ground for Nigeria’s future leaders.” Orbit also called for 20% reservation of elective and appointive positions for women, emphasizing that gender inclusion is vital for achieving balanced and sustainable national development. The public hearing, which took place at the General Hassan Usman Katsina Hall, brought together hundreds of political leaders, civil society organisations (CSOs), traditional rulers, and key stakeholders from across the Northwest to deliberate on constitutional amendments that would better reflect the needs of Nigerians. Describing the exercise as a “moment of national reckoning,” Orbit urged lawmakers and stakeholders to rise above partisan interests and focus on people-centered reforms. “Our Constitution must no longer serve as a tool of convenience for the powerful but rather a true charter of empowerment for the people,” he said. “This hearing goes beyond technical deliberation, it is about defining our identity, our values, and the kind of future we collectively envision.” He expressed hope that the inputs shared would receive due consideration in shaping a more inclusive and responsive Nigeria. Photo News:

Abuja, News, Politics

Senator Ireti Kingibe Dumps Labour Party, Joins ADC Coalition Ahead of 2027

Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the National Assembly, has officially announced her departure from the Labour Party (LP) and declared allegiance to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Reports says that the ADC is now functioning as a coalition platform for various opposition figures preparing for the 2027 general elections. Read Also: When Dr. Ganduje Opened the APC Doors to Nigeria’s Top Politicians Speaking with journalists in Abuja after a strategic meeting of the coalition, Senator Kingibe confirmed her alignment with the ADC, reaffirming her support for the coalition’s mission. “As a senator, I am fully committed to ADC. However, as the Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, I don’t expect you to just hand me a card,” she stated, acknowledging that while she has yet to receive a formal membership card, her commitment to the party’s vision is unwavering. The meeting also saw ADC chairpersons from all 36 states and the FCT throw their weight behind the interim leadership of the party, currently led by former Senate President David Mark. The leadership has been charged with unifying members, establishing grassroots political structures nationwide, and steering party affairs until a permanent executive is elected. The ADC coalition emerged recently through an alliance of opposition parties and political figures seeking to strengthen their position and improve their electoral prospects in the lead-up to the 2027 polls.

Agriculture, Kano, News

Ulama Lead Rain Prayer in Kano Over Delayed Rainfall

Amid rising concerns over delayed rainfall and its effects on agriculture, hundreds of Kano residents gathered at Umar Bin Khattab Mosque on Saturday to perform Salat al-Istisqa, the special Islamic prayer for rain. The prayer session, organized by the Kano State Council of Ulama, drew a large turnout, including prominent Islamic scholars, government officials, and community leaders. Addressing the congregation after the prayer, the Chairman of the Council, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, emphasized the importance of combining supplication with good deeds and moral conduct. Read Also: Provost Gwaram Unveils FCAPT Progress, Seeks Urgent Completion of Bunkure Campus “We must seek Allah’s mercy not only through prayer, but also by making peace with others, giving in charity, and sincerely repenting for our wrongdoings,” he stated. The special prayer comes at a time when farmers across the state are increasingly anxious about the ongoing dry spell, which poses a threat to the current planting season and overall food security in the region.

Kano, News

Bappa Gaya Assumes Administrative Leadership of Sumaila Local Government

The Sumaila Local Government has witnessed a smooth transition in its administrative leadership as Alhaji Bappa Bello Gaya officially assumed duty as the new Director of Personnel Management. Alhaji Bappa Gaya takes over from Alhaji Mustapha Ubah Minjibir, who has been transferred to Kumbotso Local Government. The official handing-over ceremony took place at the council headquarters and was acknowledged by the Chairman of Sumaila Local Government, Alhaji Farouk Abdu Sumaila. Read Also: Kano Strengthens Social Protection Policy with Stakeholder Engagement In his remarks, Alhaji Bappa Gaya expressed his deep commitment to the development of Sumaila Local Government. He called for the collective support of the council leadership, staff, and entire workforce to achieve meaningful progress in the area. The outgoing DPM, Alhaji Mustapha Ubah Minjibir, thanked the management and staff of the council for their cooperation during his tenure, and urged them to extend the same support and goodwill to his successor for the continued growth of the local government. Mustapha Minjibir particularly appreciated Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Muhammad Tajuddeen Usman Zaura, for the confidence reposed in him which culminated in his reposting to Kumbotso Local Government Area. The event marks a new chapter in the administrative management of Sumaila Local Government, with a renewed focus on collaboration, service delivery, and development. Signed: Haruna Gunduwawa Information Officer Sumaila Local Government, Kano State

National, News

Recruitment into Paramilitary Services Set to Begin July 14

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has announced that online applications for recruitment into the four paramilitary agencies, Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Federal Fire Service (FFS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), will commence on Monday, 14th July 2025. Secretary of the Board, Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin (retired), made this known in a statement issued Friday in Abuja on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Read Also: Federal Government Postpones Paramilitary Recruitment Exercise He urged applicants to beware of scammers, emphasizing that the recruitment process will be seamless, transparent, and strictly merit-based, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. Additionally, the CDCFIB approved the timeline for the 2025 Promotion Exercise, which is scheduled to begin in August and conclude by November 2025.

Kano, News

Kano Trains Media Aides to Boost Government Transparency and Public Engagement

The Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to enhancing communication strategies across all sectors to ensure improved service delivery and better public engagement. Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf made this known during the closing ceremony of a four-day capacity-building workshop for Senior Special Reporters (SSRs) and Special Reporters (SRs), held at the Dangote Business School, Bayero University, Kano. Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the Governor expressed pride in the successful execution of the workshop, which brought together 132 media personnel comprising 71 Senior Special Reporters and 61 Special Reporters from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across the state. Read Also: Kano Approves ₦69 Billion for Development Projects Across Key Sectors Themed “Updating Basic Mass Communication Skills for Enhanced Government Communication,” the training focused on refining the media and communication competencies of government spokespersons and reporting officers. Over the four-day session, participants received intensive instruction designed to improve their ability to deliver timely, accurate, and impactful public communication. Governor Yusuf praised the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs for initiating and organizing the workshop, describing effective communication as a cornerstone of good governance. “A well-informed public is the foundation of a progressive and inclusive society,” he said. He urged participants to apply the skills and knowledge gained in their respective roles and commended the facilitators for delivering an engaging and productive learning experience. “Your efforts have played a vital role in shaping the future of public communication in Kano State,” he added. The Governor further reiterated his administration’s support for capacity-building initiatives, particularly those that enhance the professionalism of civil servants and promote transparency and responsiveness in governance. Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, emphasized that the training was conducted by seasoned university lecturers and tailored to raise the professional standards of government reporters. He expressed confidence that the newly acquired skills would lead to more effective dissemination of government activities across MDAs. Comrade Waiya also noted that participants received certificates from the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja an accreditation that will bolster their professional credentials. He extended appreciation to Governor Yusuf for his continuous support to the Ministry, especially in facilitating ongoing learning opportunities aimed at strengthening the communication expertise and performance of government staff.

National, News

OAGF Blames Network Glitch for June Salary Delay to Federal Workers

The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) has attributed the delay in the payment of June 2025 salaries for some federal civil servants to a technical network issue experienced during processing. In a statement issued on Friday, the OAGF confirmed that it is aware some federal employees particularly those with salary accounts at Zenith Bank Plc, have yet to receive their June salaries. According to the statement, an internal review uncovered that a “technical network glitch” disrupted the salary processing system, resulting in incomplete disbursement across several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Read Also: Kano Strengthens Social Protection Policy with Stakeholder Engagement “We deeply regret the inconvenience this unfortunate incident has caused and wish to assure all affected employees that immediate steps have been taken to resolve the issue,” the OAGF said. The Office acknowledged the anxiety and hardship caused by the delay, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring federal workers are paid promptly. It further explained that collaboration is underway with relevant service providers and stakeholders to rectify the problem and reprocess failed payments without further delay. “We appeal to all affected staff of the Federal Public Service to remain calm and rest assured that no effort will be spared in ensuring everyone receives their rightful salaries,” the statement added. The Accountant-General noted that efforts are ongoing to isolate the issue and expedite all outstanding payments. “The welfare of Federal Government employees remains a top priority of the Office,” the statement continued. “The OAGF remains fully committed to transparency, accountability, and efficiency in all payroll operations and welcomes continued engagement with stakeholders to enhance service delivery.”

Kano, News

Kano Approves ₦69 Billion for Development Projects Across Key Sectors

Kano State Executive Council, at its 29th meeting held on Wednesday, 9th July 2025 (14th Muharram 1447 A.H.), approved the sum of ₦69,057,747,235.36 for various capital projects and interventions across health, education, infrastructure, water, transport, youth empowerment, and other critical sectors. The meeting, presided over by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, deliberated extensively on issues of governance, policy direction, and infrastructural development aimed at improving service delivery and the well-being of Kano residents. Read Also: Kano Strengthens Social Protection Policy with Stakeholder Engagement Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, highlighted that the Council’s resolutions are geared toward enhancing inclusive development and delivering people-centered governance. Breakdown of Approved Projects Health Sector – ₦180M: Counterpart funding for Free Maternal, Neonatal & Child Health and Emergency Programme – ₦240M: Toyota Coaster bus for School of Health Technology, Bebeji – ₦107.3M: Operational requirements for Kano Ultra-Modern Specialist Hospital (KUSH) – ₦344.7M: Counterpart funding for Routine Immunization (Q2 2025) Education Sector – ₦452.3M: Renovation – Govt Technical College, Dambatta – ₦349.9M: Renovation – Govt Technical College, Ungogo (Phase I) – ₦151.8M: GGSS Balan, Tsanyawa – ₦266.7M: GSS Guringawa – ₦190.2M: Establishment of Primary School at Gishiri-Wuya, Warawa LGA – ₦158.4M: Renovation – French Bilingual College, Kwankwaso – ₦349M: Renovation – Chinese Bilingual College, Kwankwaso – ₦300.6M: Conduct of 2025 internal exams (BECE/SSQE) – ₦718.7M: Settlement of 3-week boarding school feeding liabilities – ₦3.04B: Renovation of 13 closed boarding schools across the state Energy and Power – ₦2.17B: Generating sets & ATS panels for Government House – ₦393.7M: LV cable installation – Government House – ₦320.8M: Power stabilization – Regional Water Supply Scheme – ₦94.5M: Maintenance debts – Tiga & Challawa Hydro Power Plants Water Resources – ₦188.3M & ₦286.9M: KEDCO energy bills (March/April 2025) – ₦713.4M: Diesel supply for water facilities Environment and Climate Change – ₦300M: Commencement of NEWMAP-EIB project – ₦137.6M: Drainage at Toranke, Ajingi LGA – ₦185.9M: Minor drainage – Hotoron Arewa, Nasarawa LGA – ₦343M: Drainage clearance in 88 wards of 8 metro LGAs Transportation – ₦3.7B: Procurement of 500 electric tricycles (Abba Gida Gida Mass Transport Scheme) Youth and Sports – ₦152.1M: Construction of mini stadium in Kwankwaso, Madobi LGA Higher Education – ₦30.1M: Energy bills – Aliko Dangote University of Science & Technology, Wudil – ₦91.2M: Renewal of pilot licenses for state-sponsored aviation trainees Works and Infrastructure – ₦156.1M: Road network at Security Institute, Gabasawa – ₦7.8B: Asphalt overlay – RMK Flyover, IBB Rd, Kofar Mazugal Junction – ₦24.77B: Expansion of Katsina Road + 5 pedestrian bridges – ₦3.84B: Construction of 10 pedestrian bridges – ₦126.7M: Burnt shop compensation – Farm Centre GSM Market – ₦2.94B: Roads and drainage – Singer Market – ₦720.8M: 140 shops – Farm Centre GSM Market – ₦4.52B: New House of Assembly Office Complex – Audu Bako Secretariat Humanitarian Affairs – ₦39.7M: Relief materials for flood victims – Doguwa LGA Office of the Secretary to the State Government – ₦244.4M: Vehicles procurement for KNUPDA Ministry of Land and Physical Planning – ₦2.54B: Road markings and barrier maintenance under urban renewal program Policy Decisions and Additional Approvals – Immediate disbursement of ₦3 billion Federal Government Intervention Funds to flood victims across 44 LGAs. – Approval of ₦1.55 billion to settle offshore liabilities for Tiga and Challawa hydro power projects. – Adoption of a 4-year audit report by Ahmed Tanko & Co., with directives for a fresh audit on alum supply in the Ministry of Water Resources. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf summoned top officials from the Ministry of Water Resources and State Water Board, expressing deep concern over ongoing water scarcity. He issued a firm directive to urgently resolve the issue, warning that further delay would not be tolerated. The Kano State Executive Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparent governance, infrastructural transformation, and public service delivery. The approved projects reflect the state government’s resolve to accelerate socio-economic development and improve the standard of living for all Kano citizens. Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya Hon. Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs Kano State

Humanitarian, Kano, News

Kano Strengthens Social Protection Policy with Stakeholder Engagement

The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to implementing robust social protection programmes aimed at supporting the most vulnerable segments of its population. This assurance was given during the day-two session of the Social Protection Technical Working Group (TWG) Review Meeting held in Kano, with key stakeholders from government ministries, civil society, development partners, and the media in attendance. Speaking at the meeting, the Director General of the Kano State Social Protection Agency (KASPA), Dr. Fatima Abdul Abubakar, said the current administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is deeply committed to scaling up interventions in areas such as health, education, nutrition, agriculture, and water resources. Related: UNICEF, KASPA Forge Stronger Ties to Improve Social Protection Outcomes in Kano “With the establishment of KASPA, we are now better positioned to coordinate all social protection interventions across line MDAs. Our goal is to ensure every programme is implemented with strong synergy and shared responsibilities to maximize impact,” Dr. Fatima stated. She emphasized that the agency is working in close collaboration with development partners like UNICEF, civil society organizations, and the media to raise awareness and promote accountability in the delivery of services. Also speaking, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Planning and Budget, Abdulmumin Ladan Ajumawa, explained that the session was focused on reviewing and updating the existing social protection framework enacted in 2021. “The law passed by the State Assembly and signed by the Governor requires periodic updates. This review allows us to identify gaps and incorporate new priorities that were not captured in the original 2020 draft,” he said. He noted that the Kano State Social Register has grown to cover over 1.7 million households, with more than 7 million individuals recorded as potential beneficiaries of government support and donor-funded programmes. Ajumawa called on philanthropists and humanitarian organizations to make use of the verified data within the social register to provide targeted interventions that can help reduce poverty. He highlighted some challenges affecting implementation, including limited public awareness, weak coordination among MDAs, inadequate funding, and data validation issues. However, he assured that KASPA and its partners are actively addressing these concerns. Read Also: VaxSocial Launches Digital Immunization Campaign in Kano “We are now validating beneficiaries’ National Identification Numbers (NIN), account details, and phone numbers to ensure transparency and accountability in the system,” he said. He added that funding prioritization is already underway, with the current government exceeding its initial 10% budgetary allocation to social protection efforts. Additionally, community engagement and media sensitization are being scaled up to highlight social protection as a life-cycle intervention, from pregnancy, through early childhood, and into adulthood. In a technical presentation titled “Child-Sensitive Social Protection (CSSP): Gaps and Opportunities,” the Secretary of the Technical Working Group (TWG), Dalhatu Danladi who is from the Ministry of Planning and Budget outlined key achievements recorded under Kano State’s existing social protection framework. However, he emphasized that significant challenges remain in fully realizing the state’s social protection goals. He advocated for the regular update and effective utilization of the State Social Register (SSR) to ensure more accurate targeting of beneficiaries. Addressing institutional gaps, Danladi highlighted the urgent need for capacity-building initiatives and a strong legislative framework to support policy implementation. He also stressed the importance of enhanced collaboration among stakeholders, especially across line Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and development partners and media. Additionally, he underscored the need to align Kano’s efforts with national social protection strategies to promote greater impact. The two-day session was developed with the full engagement of the media and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), whose contributions played a critical role in identifying implementation gaps and proposing strategies to strengthen social protection delivery in the state. Social protection refers to a set of policies and programmes designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability by improving livelihoods and access to essential services. It includes social safety nets, cash transfers, child welfare, and access to basic healthcare and education. In Nigeria, the National Social Protection Policy (NSPP) provides a national framework, and Kano is among the leading states to have domesticated the policy and passed its own Social Protection Law. The ongoing TWG review, supported by UNICEF Kano Field Office, aims to strengthen coordination and improve programme delivery across the state, ensuring that no one is left behind. Photo News: Stakeholders and participants during group work

Kano, News

New Chief of Staff, DG Special Services Appointed in Kano

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the appointment of Dr. Suleiman Wali Sani as the new Chief of Staff, Government House, Kano. This was announced in an official statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. Read Also: Kano Inaugurates High-Level Committee to Drive State’s Input in Constitutional Amendment Dr. Sani, a seasoned medical doctor, policy expert, and retired Permanent Secretary, brings to the position over four decades of distinguished service in the public sector. Prior to this appointment, he served as Special Adviser to the Governor on Civil Service Matters. A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned his MBBS, Dr. Sani further enhanced his academic and leadership profile with a diploma from Bayero University, Kano, and the prestigious mni certification from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru. Over the years, he has held several top administrative roles, including Director General in the Ministries of Health and Commerce, Executive Secretary, and Permanent Secretary in various strategic state institutions. He also served as Chief Medical Director of the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital and Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital. Dr. Sani is widely respected for his contributions to health policy, civil service reform, and social development. He has participated in over 40 state and national committees and has represented Nigeria in various international medical and administrative forums. In a related development, Governor Yusuf has also appointed retired infantry officer Major General Mohammed Sani (Rtd.) as the new Director General of Special Services at the Government House. Maj. Gen. Sani, a decorated and experienced military officer, retired from the Nigerian Army after serving in multiple command and staff roles. His military career spanned more than 35 years, during which he contributed to peacekeeping missions, conflict resolution, and national security operations. The Governor’s Spokesperson noted that the restoration of the Office of the Chief of Staff previously scrapped in December 2024, is part of the administration’s broader strategy to strengthen governance and enhance service delivery across the state. Both appointees are expected to assume their respective offices with immediate effect.

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