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Humanitarian, Kano, News

Ganduje Applauds Dan’amu, Cites Tinubu’s Impact

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has commended Dr. Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu for his humanitarian gesture in supporting 501 orphaned families ahead of the 2027 Ramadan period in Kano Municipal. Speaking at the empowerment programme organised under the Dr. Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu Youth Coalition for Tinubu 2027, Ganduje described Dan’amu as a “good Samaritan” who demonstrated competence and dedication during his tenure as Commissioner for Finance in Kano State. He noted that the initiative was timely, particularly as Muslims prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, urging beneficiaries to offer prayers for the sponsor in appreciation of the gesture. Furthermore, Ganduje called on Kano residents to continue supporting the Kano State Government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, while also reaffirming the need for sustained backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general elections. He expressed satisfaction with ongoing developments in Kano, citing improvements in security and governance, and welcomed the political realignment in the state. Ganduje also recalled previous engagements with the sponsor, noting that Dan’amu had earlier demonstrated political commitment through initiatives such as hosting a colloquium in Kano prior to the 2023 elections. Read Also: Ganduje Commissions Mosque, Islamiyya School in Kano Dadiyata: Sani Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claim Against Ganduje Dadiyata: Ganduje Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claim as Baseless, Politically Motivated According to him, the empowerment programme reflects the ripple effect of federal appointments and interventions under the Tinubu administration, which he said continue to impact lives across Kano State. In a related development, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, stated that the initiative aligns with the state government’s efforts to support vulnerable groups. He recalled that the state government had previously earmarked significant resources for similar interventions, stressing the need for more individuals to emulate such humanitarian efforts. Waiya further expressed optimism that the state’s political realignment would yield positive outcomes for Kano and its people. Also speaking, the Director General of the National Productivity Centre and Chairman of the Northwest Tinubu Support Groups, Baffa Babba Dan Agundi, commended the sponsor for his commitment to grassroots development, reiterating his support for initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the people. Earlier, the sponsor of the programme, Dr. Aminu Mukhtar Dan’amu, explained that the initiative was part of his continuous efforts to support vulnerable communities, particularly during Ramadan. He disclosed that beneficiaries were carefully selected across 13 wards in Kano Municipal and other local government areas, in collaboration with ward heads and community leaders to ensure that the most vulnerable individuals were reached. Dan’amu revealed that the intervention included the distribution of food items such as rice, spaghetti, and cooking oil to ease the burden on beneficiaries during the fasting period. He added that additional allocations were made to APC structures, including party leaders and women groups, to further extend support to grassroots communities. According to him, the initiative is rooted in Islamic teachings, which emphasise care for orphans and the less privileged, as enshrined in the Qur’an and Hadith. He further disclosed that the programme would also serve as a platform to sensitise residents ahead of upcoming political engagements, while highlighting ongoing federal projects in Kano as evidence of the Tinubu administration’s commitment to the state. Meanwhile, the APC Chairman in Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, commended the sponsor for his foresight and generosity, urging political office holders and appointees to emulate such people-oriented initiatives. He emphasised that the party would continue to recognise individuals who contribute meaningfully to community development, noting that such efforts would be considered in future political opportunities. The empowerment programme was attended by several dignitaries, including the Managing Director of the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA), Engr. Rabi’u Sulaiman Bichi; former Secretary to the Kano State Government, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi; party leaders from Kano Municipal, and other stakeholders. In the end, stakeholders reiterated the importance of sustained humanitarian efforts and political collaboration in improving the welfare of citizens, particularly at the grassroots level. Photo News:

Education, Kano, News

Kano Polytechnic Gets New Chairman as Yusuf Removes Galadima

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has relieved Engr. Buba Galadima of his position as Chairman of the Governing Council of Kano State Polytechnic. This was conveyed in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Director General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, on Saturday. The governor subsequently approved the appointment of the Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, as the new Chairman of the Governing Council of the institution. Read Also: Tinubu Hails Argungu Festival, Promises Support For Agriculture Kano State Polytechnic Takes Step Toward University-Affiliated PGD Programmes FG Set to End HND–Degree Divide, Empowers Polytechnics to Award Degrees The decision to relieve Galadima, according to the statement, is part of ongoing restructuring efforts aimed at aligning the institution with the administration’s Kano First Agenda. Although the Governing Council’s tenure is officially three years, the chairman’s appointment was terminated before expiration to facilitate reforms targeted at optimal performance of the Polytechnic. Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to Galadima for his services to the institution during his tenure. He urged the newly appointed chairman to deploy his experience, leadership, and commitment in repositioning Kano State Polytechnic for greater academic and administrative excellence.

Kebbi, National, News

Tinubu Hails Argungu Festival, Promises Support For Agriculture

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival as a strong indication of restored stability and normalcy in Kebbi State and across Nigeria. This was conveyed in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Speaking at the grand finale of the festival in Argungu on Saturday, the President pledged sustained Federal Government support for tourism, agriculture, food security, and rural development. He commended the Kebbi State Government for successfully organising the historic cultural event, which attracted over 50,000 fishermen from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries. “Congratulations. Well done. Very good show. Remarkable history. This festival has endured for 83 years and stands as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and peaceful coexistence among our people,” Tinubu said. The President lauded the security arrangements that ensured a safe and successful event, noting that such socio-cultural gatherings thrive only in a peaceful and secure environment. Read Also: FG Launches FarmerMoni Programme, 22,000 Farmers to Benefit According to him, the relative peace being experienced in Kebbi and other parts of the country is a result of sustained investment in security, intelligence gathering, and community engagement. He assured Nigerians that the fight against insecurity, including banditry and insurgency, would be decisively won, enabling farmers, fishermen, and traders to carry out their activities without fear. Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting farmers and rural communities, noting Kebbi State’s strategic role in advancing food security and agrarian development. Highlighting the importance of culture in national unity, he said the Argungu Festival continues to promote friendship, healthy competition, and Nigeria’s rich heritage on the global stage. Before attending the festival, the President commissioned several infrastructure projects in Birnin Kebbi, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Secretariat Complex, a new modern motor park, a three-lane dual carriageway, Kauran Gwandu College of Nursing and Midwifery Sciences, Ambursa, and the dualised Old Argungu By-Pass Road. In his remarks, Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, appreciated the President for honouring the state with his presence and reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustaining the festival as a platform for cultural preservation, tourism development, and economic growth. He outlined key achievements of his administration, including infrastructure expansion, healthcare improvements with over 1,800 health workers recruited, and the rehabilitation of hospitals and primary healthcare centres. The governor also highlighted agricultural interventions such as the free distribution of fertilisers, improved seedlings, and farm inputs to farmers, as well as improvements in civil service welfare and education. The Emir of Argungu, Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, expressed delight over the return of the festival after nearly six years, describing it as a symbol of courage, unity, and reconciliation. He commended the President’s Renewed Hope agenda, citing initiatives in healthcare, education, and infrastructure as key drivers of national development. Meanwhile, Abubakar Usman from Maiyama Local Government Area emerged winner of the fishing competition with a 59kg catch, winning N1 million and two cars, while other contestants received cash prizes, vehicles, and additional rewards.

Kano, News

Fresh Fire Outbreak Hits Singa Market

A fresh fire outbreak has razed parts of Singa Market in Kano, destroying goods estimated to be worth millions of naira and leaving traders in distress. The inferno, which reportedly engulfed Gidan Gilas popularly known as “Gidan Mai” affected a provision store where flames and thick plumes of smoke were seen rising into the sky, attracting scores of traders and residents who rushed to the scene in a desperate attempt to salvage goods. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the fire spread rapidly to adjoining structures, heightening tension within the densely populated commercial hub as shop owners struggled to prevent further losses. As of the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire outbreak remains unknown, with no official confirmation on what triggered the incident. Officials of the Kano State Fire Service were promptly deployed to the scene and initially battled the blaze with a fire truck. However, efforts were temporarily hampered after the water supply was exhausted, necessitating reinforcement. Read Also: Ganduje Commissions Mosque, Islamiyya School in Kano A second fire truck was later dispatched to sustain the firefighting operation, while a private water tanker from Aspira Nigeria Limited also joined in efforts to contain the inferno. Despite these interventions, traders and residents expressed growing concern over the adequacy of emergency response resources, calling for additional water tankers to fully extinguish the fire and prevent further devastation. The latest incident comes barely weeks after a similar fire outbreak at the same market caused extensive destruction, compounding the economic hardship faced by traders and raising fresh concerns over recurring fire disasters in the area.

Kaduna, Kano, News

Dadiyata: Ganduje Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claim as Baseless, Politically Motivated

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has firmly rejected allegations by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, linking him to the disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata. This was conveyed in a statement signed by former Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs in Kano State, Muhammad Garba, who urged anyone with credible information regarding the abduction to present it to appropriate authorities, stressing that accountability must be based on facts and due process rather than speculation. In the statement, Ganduje described the allegation as reckless, unfounded and a clear attempt to shift responsibility for an incident that occurred entirely within Kaduna State. He emphasised that Dadiyata lived and operated in Kaduna, where he was widely known for directing his criticisms at the state government, noting that there is no credible evidence suggesting that the activist’s primary focus was Kano State or Ganduje. Read Also: Dadiyata: Sani Dismisses El-Rufai’s Claim Against Ganduje “Everyone in Kaduna knew the nature of the criticism he made and who it was directed at,” the statement noted, adding that responsibility for security in Kaduna at the time rested with the state government and relevant federal security agencies. The statement further called for careful scrutiny of El-Rufai’s remarks, stressing that such serious allegations must be backed by verifiable evidence rather than political rhetoric. It warned that dragging Ganduje into the matter without proof not only politicises a painful and unresolved episode but also risks misleading the public on an already sensitive issue. Contrasting the political climate in both states at the time, Garba maintained that Ganduje’s administration in Kano was characterised by tolerance for criticism, open media engagement and acceptance of opposition voices. “Unlike many political leaders who maintained strained relationships with the media, we allowed scrutiny, accommodated critical voices and even learned from dissenting perspectives,” he stated. He added that there was no record of arrests, intimidation or harassment of journalists or critics in Kano during Ganduje’s tenure. The statement also referenced remarks by former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, who had noted that many individuals in Kaduna were reluctant to speak publicly about the case, as well as comments by Reno Omokri questioning how the matter was handled. Garba further expressed concern over El-Rufai’s claim that a police officer allegedly confessed to being sent from Kano to abduct Dadiyata, questioning why such information, if credible, was not formally presented to investigative authorities or pursued through proper security channels. “It is difficult to reconcile a claim of having no prior knowledge of the individual with simultaneously making detailed assertions about who was responsible,” the statement added. While reiterating sympathy for Dadiyata’s family, the statement stressed that the priority should remain on uncovering the truth through lawful and transparent investigative processes. “The family deserves closure,” it stated, adding that the matter should not be reduced to political blame-shifting but handled with the seriousness it deserves.

National, News

Ramadan: INEC Defends 2027 Poll Dates, Signals Possible Adjustment

Nigeria’s electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has stated that the timetable for the 2027 general elections was developed in strict compliance with constitutional and legal provisions, even as it considers possible adjustments following concerns over a clash with the Ramadan fasting period. The commission made the clarification in a statement issued on Friday by the Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, in response to criticisms surrounding the scheduled election dates. INEC explained that the timetable aligns with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and its established regulations and guidelines for the conduct of elections. According to the commission, its guidelines formulated since 2019 clearly stipulate that presidential and National Assembly elections are to be held on the third Saturday of February in an election year, while governorship and State House of Assembly elections are conducted two weeks later. “Regarding the dates fixed for the conduct of elections, the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the timelines contained in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and the INEC Guidelines and Regulations for the Conduct of Elections, 2022,” the statement read. Read Also: INEC Sets Dates for 2027 Presidential, Governorship Elections At 50 Years, Murtala’s Legacy Still Outpaces Many Governments Ganduje Commissions Mosque, Islamiyya School in Kano However, the electoral umpire acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders over the overlap between the election dates and the Ramadan period, noting that it remains responsive to issues that may affect voter participation. “The Commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised observances,” INEC stated. It further disclosed that consultations are ongoing with relevant stakeholders, including representatives of the Muslim community, to address the concerns. “The Commission wishes to assure the public that it remains sensitive to legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections. The Commission is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention,” it added. The development follows criticisms from opposition figures, who faulted the timing of the elections and urged the commission to reconsider the schedule. As consultations continue, INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting credible, inclusive, and constitutionally compliant elections, while balancing national sensitivities.

Kano, News, Religious

Ganduje Commissions Mosque, Islamiyya School in Kano

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The immediate past National Chairman of the APC and Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Friday commissioned a newly constructed mosque and Islamiyya school in Bachirawa Quarters, Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State. The project, executed under the Ganduje Foundation, was built in honour of the late Hajiya Asiya Muhammad, mother of Professor Hafsat Ganduje, and is described as a sadaqatul jariya aimed at promoting Islamic knowledge and community development. Speaking at the commissioning, Dr. Ganduje said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to advance Islamic propagation and strengthen social infrastructure across communities. He noted that similar projects have been undertaken in different parts of the country, including the construction of mosques and Islamiyya schools to enhance religious education. The former governor further disclosed that additional projects are ongoing, including the construction of a modern mosque in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, which will feature facilities such as radio and television stations for Islamic teachings, an Imam’s residence, separate sections for male and female worshippers, as well as commercial components to ensure sustainability. Read Also: At 50 Years, Murtala’s Legacy Still Outpaces Many Governments Kano APC Transition Committees: Why Competence Trumps Ego Ganduje, Kuku Lead Nigeria’s Airports Into a New Era He added that another mosque project is currently underway near his residence in Miyangu, reiterating his commitment to expanding access to Islamic knowledge and community services. Dr. Ganduje also explained that the foundation continues to promote Islamic teachings peacefully, including supporting individuals who willingly embrace Islam, while fostering unity and mutual understanding within society. In his remarks, Malam Usamatu Salga, Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, conveyed the state government’s appreciation for the initiative. He stated that the project aligns with ongoing efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and sustainable development, urging residents to maintain harmony for continued progress. Meanwhile, the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, commended the Ganduje Foundation for its consistent contributions to Islamic development, noting that such interventions have positively impacted not only Kano State but other parts of the country. Similarly, the Senator representing Kano South, Sulaiman Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, called on well-meaning individuals to emulate the gesture, stressing that investments in religious and educational infrastructure remain vital for societal growth and unity. Also speaking, the Chairman of the Council of Ulama, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, emphasised the importance of using the mosque as a platform for promoting unity among Muslims through sound teachings and responsible leadership. Earlier, Malam Abba Koki, who represented the National Chairman of Jama’atul Izalatul Bid’a Wa’Ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), urged the mosque’s leadership to uphold the core values of Islamic teachings and ensure proper guidance for the community. In his acceptance speech, the Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Lawan Shuaibu Abubakar, expressed appreciation to Dr. Ganduje for the gesture, noting that the former governor has followed in the footsteps of Ahmadu Bello by combining Islamic propagation with public service. He offered prayers for Dr. Ganduje’s continued good health and called for unity and peaceful coexistence among members of the community. The mosque and Islamiyya school comprise 16 classrooms dedicated to Islamic studies, providing a structured environment for religious learning and community engagement. Dr. Ganduje also used the occasion to offer prayers for the late Murtala Ramat Muhammad, marking 50 years since his assassination on February 13, 1976, and reiterating the need for leaders to uphold values of integrity and national service.

National, News

INEC Sets Dates for 2027 Presidential, Governorship Elections

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled the official timetable for the 2027 General Elections, outlining key dates for elections, party primaries, campaigns, and voter registration. According to the commission, the Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 20, 2027. Similarly, Governorship and State House of Assembly elections will take place two weeks later, on Saturday, March 6, 2027. Read Also: Nigeria Must Integrate Innovation, Policy, and Research for Growth — Bindir INEC Expands Political Space, Laments Declining Voter Turnout FG Launches FarmerMoni Programme, 22,000 Farmers to Benefit INEC also announced the approved campaign timelines for political parties and candidates, in line with electoral guidelines. Presidential and National Assembly campaigns are expected to commence on November 18, 2026, and end on February 19, 2027. Meanwhile, Governorship and State Assembly campaigns will begin on December 15, 2026, and conclude on March 5, 2027, exactly 24 hours before the elections. The commission noted that the timetable is designed to ensure adequate preparation, compliance with electoral laws, and a smooth conduct of the elections across the country.

News, Politics, Rivers

Fubara Dissolves Rivers Executive Council

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has dissolved the State Executive Council with immediate effect. The dissolution was announced on Thursday, marking a significant development in the state’s political landscape. Following the directive, all commissioners and special advisers have been instructed to hand over to the permanent secretaries or the most senior officers in their respective ministries pending further decisions. Read Also: El-Rufai Alleges Attempted Arrest at Abuja Airport Governor Fubara expressed appreciation to the outgoing members of the Executive Council for their service to the state and wished them well in their future endeavours. The development was conveyed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Onwuka Nzeshi.

National, News

Shettima Departs Abuja for 2026 AU Summit in Ethiopia

Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Thursday departed Abuja for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to represent President Bola Tinubu at the 2026 African Union (AU) Summit. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit is themed, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.” The summit will focus on advancing continental commitments toward sustainable water management, improved sanitation systems, and broader development goals outlined in the AU’s Agenda 2063 framework. While in Addis Ababa, the vice-president will participate in the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the AU Heads of State and Government. Read Also: El-Rufai Alleges Attempted Arrest at Abuja Airport Shettima is also scheduled to attend the 30th General Assembly holding from Feb. 14 to Feb. 15. In addition, the vice-president will take part in high-level side events and bilateral meetings with political and business leaders aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic, economic and strategic partnerships across Africa. Shettima, accompanied by cabinet ministers and other senior government officials, is expected to return to Nigeria at the conclusion of his official engagements in Ethiopia. (NAN)

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