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Kano, News, Politics

Kwankwaso to Join ADC Monday, Meets Atiku Ahead of Move

By Umar Idris Shuaibu A former Governor of Kano State and national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has met with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of his planned defection to the African Democratic Congress on Monday. The meeting, which comes amid intensifying political consultations, is believed to be part of broader opposition efforts to realign ahead of the 2027 general elections. Photos from the engagement, shared by media platforms, indicated that both northern political heavyweights discussed key national and political issues as opposition leaders continue to strategise on possible coalitions. Kwankwaso is expected to formally join the ADC during a registration event scheduled for Monday at Kwankwasiyya House, Miller Road, Bompai, Kano. A former Kano State Commissioner for Science and Technology and ADC Caucus Secretary, Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar-Mata, in a statement, invited the general public to attend the event, noting that it would be led by the former governor. Read Also: Radiographers Oppose Health Bills, Warn of Threat to Professional Autonomy Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours APC Unveils Full NWC List as Yilwatda, Basiru Retain Top Positions “I am inviting the general public to the registration event of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which will be led by Sen. Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Monday, March 30, 2026, at about 12:00 noon,” he said, expressing optimism for a successful exercise. The anticipated defection follows weeks of consultations involving Kwankwaso, members of his Kwankwasiyya movement, and key stakeholders within the ADC. In recent weeks, the former presidential candidate has held a series of high-level meetings with prominent opposition figures, including the ADC National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola; the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde; and the senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson. Sources within political circles said the move is part of a wider opposition strategy aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next electoral cycle. The development also comes amid a reported rift between Kwankwaso and his political protégé, Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf. Yusuf, widely regarded as a major beneficiary of the Kwankwasiyya political structure, recently defected from the NNPP to the APC alongside several lawmakers and political appointees. Kwankwaso had opposed the move and publicly distanced himself from it, describing it as a betrayal. Political observers say the former governor’s expected defection to the ADC could significantly reshape political alignments in Kano and across the northern region, as opposition forces intensify preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Health, National, News

Radiographers Oppose Health Bills, Warn of Threat to Professional Autonomy

 By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The Association of Radiographers of Nigeria has raised strong objections to the proposed Dental Practitioners Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2026 (HB 2695), warning that its provisions could erode professional autonomy and disrupt Nigeria’s healthcare regulatory system. The concerns were outlined by the National President of the association, Musa Y. Dambele, during a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Secretariat in Kano on Saturday. Dambele described the proposed legislation as a fundamental threat to the practice of radiography, alleging that it seeks to transfer regulatory authority from the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria to the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria. He specifically drew attention to Section 8(1) of the bill, which contains a “notwithstanding clause” granting the MDCN overriding powers over other regulatory bodies. According to him, this provision conflicts with the existing Radiographers Act and could effectively strip the RRBN of its statutory mandate. The ARN president also faulted Section 47 of the bill, which classifies radiology as encompassing all aspects of diagnostic imaging. He argued that such a definition undermines the distinction between radiology and radiography, noting that the latter is a specialised scientific discipline focused on imaging technology, radiation safety, and patient care. Read Also: Association of Radiographers Rejects Illegal Appointment of Board Registrar Dambele further raised concerns over Section 8(1)(k), which empowers the MDCN to regulate the use of technologies such as ultrasound, lasers, and radiofrequency-based devices. He maintained that these tools are integral to radiographic practice and should not be restricted to a single professional body. On disciplinary provisions, he criticised Sections 30 to 32 of the bill, which propose tribunals dominated by medical and dental practitioners to adjudicate cases involving other health professionals. He argued that such arrangements could undermine fair hearing and professional independence. He also expressed reservations over Section 18(3), which mandates that a portion of professional fees be shared with external bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association, describing the provision as unjustified and capable of distorting regulatory practices. The association further linked the bill with another proposed legislation, HB 2699, describing both as a coordinated effort to weaken radiography through what it termed a “pincer movement.” According to Dambele, while one bill seeks to erode internal regulatory authority, the other introduces external pressures that could constrain the profession. Beyond professional concerns, the ARN president cautioned against provisions that expand ministerial influence over regulatory boards, warning that such measures could introduce political interference into a highly technical sector. He also opposed attempts to dilute the authority of the RRBN in appointing its Registrar, stressing the need to preserve institutional independence. He noted that global best practices in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia support independent professional regulation, adding that any deviation from this model could create tensions within Nigeria’s health sector. Dambele said the position of the association aligns with that of the Joint Health Sector Unions and other healthcare stakeholders who have raised similar concerns. The association, therefore, called on the National Assembly to reject the bill in its current form, uphold professional self-regulation, and initiate broader stakeholder consultations to develop a balanced regulatory framework. He emphasised that radiographers play a critical role in healthcare delivery, including in diagnostic imaging and therapeutic procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, ultrasound, and radiotherapy, warning that any attempt to centralise control could have implications for patient safety and service delivery. Dambele reiterated the association’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the profession and ensuring that healthcare regulation in Nigeria remains inclusive, balanced, and in line with global standards.

National, News, Politics

APC Unveils Full NWC List as Yilwatda, Basiru Retain Top Positions

By Umar Idris Shuaibu The All Progressives Congress (APC) has concluded its 8th National Convention in Abuja, reaffirming Nentawe Yilwatda as National Chairman and Ajibola Basiru as National Secretary. The convention, held at Eagle Square, also produced a new National Working Committee (NWC) through a consensus arrangement endorsed by party stakeholders. A notable development was the emergence of Benjamin Obi Nwoye as Deputy National Chairman (South), replacing Emma Eneukwu following consultations within the party. Party sources indicated that zoning considerations and high-level consultations influenced the composition of the new leadership, with Peter Mbah playing a key role in Nwoye’s emergence. Read Also: Mustapha Bala Dawaki and the Prospect of a 2027 Political Comeback Kano Deputy Governor Resigns Amid Political Storm Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours In his acceptance speech, Yilwatda described his re-election as a call to greater service, pledging unity and commitment to strengthening the ruling party. “We are ready to serve, ready to lead, and ready to build the party together with the nation,” he said, assuring that the leadership would not “fail or falter” in delivering on its mandate. The convention was attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, lawmakers, and other party leaders. Full List of APC National Working Committee (NWC) National Chairman — Nentawe Yilwatda Deputy National Chairman (North) — Ali Bukar Dalori Deputy National Chairman (South) — Benjamin Obi Nwoye National Secretary — Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru Deputy National Secretary — AbdulKarim Abubakar Kana National Legal Adviser — Murtala Aliyu Kankia National Treasurer — Uguru Mathew Ofoke National Financial Secretary — Haruna Ginsau Deputy National Financial Secretary — Hammam Adamu Ali Kumo National Organising Secretary — Muhammad Sulaiman Argungu Deputy National Organising Secretary — Emeka Okafor National Welfare Secretary — Donatus Enyinnah Nwankpa Deputy National Welfare Secretary — Christopher Michael Akpan National Publicity Secretary — Felix Morka Deputy National Publicity Secretary — Meseko Durosinmi Josiah National Auditor — Abubakar Maikafi Deputy National Auditor — Olugbenga Olayemi National Women Leader — Mary Idele Deputy National Women Leader — Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim National Youth Leader — Dayo Israel Deputy National Youth Leader — Jamaludeen Kabiru National Leader (Persons With Disabilities) — Durotolu Oyebode Bankole Deputy National Legal Adviser — Ibrahim Salawu Deputy National Treasurer — Ben Akak National Ex-Officio (North-Central) — Opawoye Oluwatoyin Bunmi National Ex-Officio (North-East) — Adamu Jallah National Ex-Officio (North-West) — Kano Muhammed Jamu Yusuf National Ex-Officio (South-East) — Ikechukwu Umeh National Ex-Officio (South-South) — Francis Kolokolo National Ex-Officio (South-West) — Bunmi Orinowo

Abuja, National, News, Politics

Tinubu Leads APC Heavyweights as Party Retains Yilwatda at National Convention

By Umar Idris Shuaibu President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday led top chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to its 8th National Convention held at Eagle Square, where Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda was returned as the party’s National Chairman. The high-profile gathering drew key political figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former APC National Chairman Bisi Akande, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas. Also in attendance were Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, as well as Governor of Imo State and Chairman of APC Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, among other party stakeholders. Yilwatda’s return emerged through a consensus arrangement, with all members of the National Working Committee (NWC) reaffirmed via an affirmative voice vote during the convention. Read Also: Kano Deputy Governor Resigns Amid Political Storm Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours APC Northwest Congress: Ganduje Attends Key Party Gathering in Kaduna The revalidated NWC includes Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori; Deputy National Chairman (South), Emma Eneukwu; National Secretary, Surajudeen Basiru; National Financial Secretary, Bashir Gumel; and National Legal Adviser, Murtala Kankia, among others. The newly endorsed leadership was sworn in immediately and is expected to steer the affairs of the ruling party for the next four years. In his acceptance speech, Yilwatda pledged to build a stronger, more inclusive, and disciplined party, while deepening internal democracy and expanding the APC’s reach across the country. “Our mission is clear: to build a pan-Nigerian party that is transparent, united, and responsive to the aspirations of our people,” he said. He also assured members of an open-door leadership style and expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in the 2027 general elections. Yilwatda commended President Tinubu for his leadership, noting that ongoing economic reforms and infrastructure investments under the Renewed Hope Agenda were already yielding positive signs. The convention, which attracted thousands of delegates and party supporters, is widely seen as a defining moment for the APC as it consolidates its internal structure ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Economy, National, News

WAEC Releases 2026 CB-WASSCE Results, Records Improved Performance

By Umar Idris Shuaibu The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the release of the 2026 First Series Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for private candidates, reporting improved performance and increased participation nationwide. The examination was conducted across Nigeria from January 28 to February 14, while coordination and marking of scripts took place between February 26 and March 13. In a statement issued by WAEC’s Public Affairs Department in Lagos and signed by Moyosola Adesina, Acting Head of Public Affairs, the council disclosed that 608 examiners participated in the marking process. According to the council, a total of 10,523 candidates registered for the examination, representing an 11.49 per cent increase compared to 2025. Out of this figure, 10,480 candidates eventually sat for the examination nationwide. Read Also: Kano State Polytechnic Takes Step Toward University-Affiliated PGD Programmes New VC Unveils Plan to Modernise Curriculum, Introduce Tech-Driven Degrees Why Science College Dawakin Kudu Remains a Pride of Kano’s Educational Heritage Performance analysis showed that 30.95 per cent of candidates obtained credit passes in at least five subjects, while 26.96 per cent secured credits in five subjects, including English Language and Mathematics. This represents a marginal improvement of 5.76 per cent compared to the previous year. The council further revealed that 43 candidates with special needs including visually impaired, hearing impaired, and albino candidates registered for the examination and were adequately supported throughout the process. Gender distribution indicated that female candidates slightly outnumbered males, with 5,374 females (51.28 per cent) compared to 5,106 males (48.72 per cent). WAEC stated that out of the 10,480 candidates who sat for the examination, 8,418 (80.32 per cent) have fully processed results, while 2,062 (19.68 per cent) still have some subjects under processing. It added that 4,598 candidates obtained credits in five subjects, while 3,429 secured credits including English Language and Mathematics, reflecting measurable improvement in overall performance. The council also disclosed that the results of 75 candidates have been withheld over alleged examination malpractice, noting that the cases are currently under investigation and will be reviewed by the appropriate committee. Candidates were advised to access their results through official WAEC platforms and proceed with necessary steps, including online applications for certificate printing. The council reiterated its commitment to upholding the integrity of its examinations and congratulated successful candidates nationwide.

Kaduna, News

El-Rufai Loses Mother as Family Seeks Prayers

By Umar Idris Shuaibu Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has lost his mother, Umma El-Rufai. The matriarch reportedly passed away on Friday, according to a Facebook post by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai. Bello, who currently represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, disclosed the development on his verified social media page, where he also appealed to the public to offer prayers for the repose of her soul. Read Also: APC Northwest Congress: Ganduje Attends Key Party Gathering in Kaduna Kano Deputy Governor Resigns Amid Political Storm Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours As of the time of filing this report, the cause of death had not been disclosed. Meanwhile, Nasir El-Rufai is reportedly in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) over allegations of corruption. Family sources are yet to announce burial arrangements as condolences continue to pour in from associates and sympathisers.

Kano, News, Politics

Kano Deputy Governor Resigns Amid Political Storm

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano The Kwankwasiyya Movement has announced the resignation of the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, citing the need to preserve peace and ensure smooth governance. This was disclosed in a statement issued by the movement’s spokesperson, Habibu Sale Mohammed. According to the statement, the decision to step down was taken in the interest of maintaining stability and allowing the office to function effectively without disruption. The movement clarified that the resignation should not be interpreted as an admission of the allegations levelled against the Deputy Governor by the Kano State House of Assembly. It stressed that he maintains a clean record in public service. Read Also: Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours Governor Yusuf Sacks Kano Commissioner in Cabinet Shake-Up Mustapha Bala Dawaki and the Prospect of a 2027 Political Comeback It further noted that the move was aimed at preventing political tensions that could hinder governance and slow down the state’s development. The statement added that the former Deputy Governor will now focus on strengthening the Kwankwasiyya Movement and developing political strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections. The group also called on its supporters and the people of Kano State to remain law-abiding and continue supporting good governance.

National, News, Politics

APC Convention: 32 Governors, Over 8,000 Delegates Storm Abuja Amid Tight Security, FG Declares Work-From-Home

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the Federal Executive Council, 32 state governors, and over 8,400 delegates have converged on Abuja for the 2026 National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), setting the stage for a major political gathering ahead of the 2027 general elections. The convention, scheduled to hold at Eagle Square, is expected to attract party leaders and stakeholders from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with new party executives set to emerge. Speaking during a world media briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed that a total of 8,453 accredited delegates are expected to participate in the convention. He noted that the event, themed “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” reflects the party’s commitment to strengthening its internal structures while aligning governance with its broader policy direction. Read Also: Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours APC Northwest Congress: Ganduje Attends Key Party Gathering in Kaduna Governor Yusuf Sacks Kano Commissioner in Cabinet Shake-Up According to Idris, the convention will serve as a platform for leadership elections, policy engagement, and strategic direction-setting for the ruling party as it prepares for the next electoral cycle. “The convention marks another milestone in our journey, reflecting both continuity and renewal within the party. It also provides an opportunity to showcase the achievements recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said. Also in attendance at the briefing were key cabinet members and party chieftains, including Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, Minister of Arts and Culture Hannatu Musawa, and presidential aides, among others. Chairman of the APC National Convention Central Coordinating Committee and former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, assured Nigerians of the party’s readiness to conduct a smooth and credible convention. Masari reaffirmed that the party remains guided by its zoning arrangements, stressing that all positions have been fairly distributed across geopolitical zones in line with federal character principles. “We are fully prepared for the convention. All committees have completed their assignments, and arrangements are in place to ensure a seamless exercise,” he said. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has directed civil servants working within the Federal Secretariat in Abuja to work from home, citing security and logistical considerations linked to the convention. In a circular issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, all access roads leading to the Federal Secretariat Complex and surrounding areas were ordered closed between Friday and Saturday. The directive affects Ministries, Departments, and Agencies located within Phases I, II, and III of the Secretariat, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Officials explained that the measure was necessary due to the anticipated influx of delegates and the use of Eagle Square as the venue for the convention. Across the Federal Capital Territory, hotels and guesthouses have recorded full occupancy as party delegates and supporters arrived in large numbers, underscoring the scale and significance of the gathering. The APC convention is expected to shape the party’s internal leadership structure and set the tone for political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, as stakeholders position for influence in the evolving political landscape.

Kano, News

Mother of Quintuplets Dies Hours After Delivery as Govt Takes Over Babies’ Care

A Kano woman, Hafsatu Yusuf, who recently gave birth to quintuplets at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, has died hours after delivery. Her husband, Salisu Nafiu, confirmed the development on Thursday, stating that she passed away at about 1:00 a.m. at the hospital. He, however, disclosed that all five babies, three boys and two girls, are alive and currently receiving medical care at the facility. The deceased had delivered the quintuplets via Caesarean section at about 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, in what was earlier described as a rare and successful multiple birth. According to her husband, it was her ninth childbirth. Read Also: Governor Yusuf Sacks Kano Commissioner in Cabinet Shake-Up Quintuplets Delivered in Kano as Govt Takes Over Medical Care Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours He had earlier expressed appreciation for the efforts of medical personnel, noting that the newborns were receiving special attention to ensure their wellbeing. Meanwhile, the Kano State Government has announced that it will take full responsibility for the healthcare of the quintuplets. The State Ministry of Health said the intervention forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services, as well as reduce maternal and infant mortality across the state.

Kaduna, News, Politics

APC Northwest Congress: Ganduje Attends Key Party Gathering in Kaduna

The immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Thursday attended the APC Northwest Zonal Congress held at Murtala Square in Kaduna State. The congress brought together governors from the Northwest, party stakeholders, and delegates from across the zone, where party officials were elected to strengthen internal leadership structure and promote unity within the ruling party. Read Also: Ganduje Performs Ramadan Lesser Hajj Gawuna Missing from Political Radar as APC Battles to Stop Defection Rumours Why Engr. Abba Ganduje is Still Needed in Dawakin Tofa Federal Constituency Dr. Ganduje was accompanied by the Executive Director of Technical Services at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Engr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje. The event marks one of his major public appearances after spending nearly a month in Saudi Arabia for Ramadan Umrah activities.

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