By Muhammad Abubakar

Anti-Muslim racism is widespread in Germany’s public institutions, with most Muslims reporting discriminatory treatment when dealing with state authorities, according to a recent survey highlighted by anti-racism advocates.

The findings, cited by the alliance against anti-Muslim hatred CLAIM, show that around 80 per cent of Muslims surveyed reported experiencing discrimination in their interactions with public institutions and authorities. The study examined experiences involving government agencies, public services, and other state institutions.

Researchers said the results point to persistent forms of institutional racism that affect Muslims in areas such as employment services, migration offices, law enforcement, and public administration. The study is among the most comprehensive investigations of racism within German federal institutions to date.

The survey comes amid growing concern over anti-Muslim hostility in Germany. A separate civil society report presented by CLAIM this week documented 4,096 anti-Muslim incidents nationwide in 2025, up from 3,080 cases in 2024. The incidents included discrimination, insults, threats, property damage, and violent attacks. Women accounted for nearly two-thirds of recorded cases where gender was identified.

CLAIM and other advocacy groups have called for stronger measures to combat anti-Muslim racism, including improved complaint mechanisms, better monitoring of discrimination, and expanded anti-bias training within public institutions.

Germany is home to more than five million Muslims, making it one of the largest Muslim populations in Europe. Recent studies have warned that discrimination and exclusion continue to pose significant challenges to social cohesion and equal participation in public life.

By Uzair Adam

Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has called on Nigerian universities to move beyond conducting research solely for academic publication and focus on transforming research findings into commercially viable products capable of addressing national development challenges.

The Vice-Chancellor of BUK, Professor Haruna Musa, made the call on Tuesday during the university’s First National Conference and Exhibition on Research and Development, which concluded after two days of deliberations involving researchers, industry experts, policymakers and development partners.

Speaking on the significance of the conference, Professor Musa said Nigerian universities must adopt deliberate strategies to showcase and commercialise research outputs rather than limiting them to academic journals.

According to him, many researchers across Nigerian universities concentrate on publishing their findings without sufficient efforts to translate them into products and services that can benefit society.

“Our research efforts should not end on the pages of journals. We need deliberate initiatives to convert research findings into commercially viable products that can contribute to national development,” he said.

The vice-chancellor explained that the university, through its Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnership (DRIP), organised the maiden conference and exhibition to create a platform where government agencies, industry players and academics could collaborate on commercialising research outcomes.

He expressed satisfaction with the innovations and inventions displayed at the exhibition, describing them as evidence of the immense talent available within Nigerian universities and research institutes.

“What I have seen here shows that Nigerians are talented and that our universities and research institutes are producing research capable of addressing our developmental challenges,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Dr. (Barr.) Obiageli Edith Amadiobi, emphasised the need to strengthen linkages between academia and industry to ensure that research addresses real-world problems.

She said the gap between universities and industries could be bridged through deliberate partnerships and programmes that encourage industry-driven research.

According to her, NOTAP’s Industry Technology Transfer Fellowship Programme was designed to support PhD candidates working on research topics identified by industries, thereby ensuring that research outcomes respond directly to market needs.

She noted that research should be problem-oriented and capable of providing practical solutions.

“If there is no problem, there can’t be any solution. The challenges facing industries are better handled by researchers in universities, and that is why we are working to strengthen the linkage between industry and academia,” she said.

The NOTAP boss further stressed the importance of moving from what she described as “research for the shelf” to “research for the market.”

She observed that research loses much of its value when its findings remain unused, adding that universities across the world increasingly support research that can be translated into products and commercial ventures.

Amadiobi also highlighted the importance of intellectual property protection and patent registration for researchers.

She explained that original innovations should be patented to ensure inventors retain ownership rights and benefit from their discoveries.

“Whatever you research into and it is original, you have to own it. By patenting it, you secure your rights and can continue to benefit from the intellectual property,” she said.

She urged universities to establish comprehensive intellectual property policies that clearly define ownership rights, revenue-sharing arrangements and responsibilities relating to research outputs and innovations.

Earlier, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Professor Muhammad Maina, described the conference as a successful first attempt at creating a national platform for discussions on research commercialisation and innovation.

He said the event exceeded expectations and provided valuable lessons that would help improve future editions.

“This is the first national conference and exhibition on research and development in Bayero University. We have tested the waters and can now improve on what we have done, widen participation and attract more exhibitors in the future,” he said.

Maina noted that organisers intend to expand future editions to accommodate more students, researchers and institutions from across the country.

He added that recommendations and observations made during panel discussions would be carefully reviewed and incorporated into the university’s future research and innovation strategies.

According to him, issues relating to intellectual property, research partnerships and commercialisation featured prominently during discussions and would help shape the activities of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnership.

“We have taken note of all the important contributions made during the conference. They will help us recalibrate our standards, improve our operations and strengthen research and development activities within the university,” he said.

The conference, themed “Bridging Knowledge and Enterprise: Intellectual Property, Partnership and Research Commercialisation,” brought together academics, innovators, government officials and industry stakeholders to explore ways of transforming research outputs into products and services that contribute to economic growth and national development.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made football history after becoming the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments.

The Portugal captain achieved the feat on Tuesday night after scoring twice in his side’s dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in a Group K encounter.

Ronaldo first scored at the World Cup during the 2006 edition. He also found the net in the 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments before extending the record at the ongoing 2026 competition.

Portugal took the lead in the sixth minute after Joao Cancelo delivered a cross that Ronaldo converted with a neat finish at the near post.

Nuno Mendes later doubled the advantage with a low free-kick from outside the box before Ronaldo struck again shortly before halftime. Bruno Fernandes provided the assist for the forward, who calmly placed the ball into the bottom corner to make it 3-0.

The goal was Ronaldo’s 10th in World Cup history. The achievement moved him ahead of Portuguese legend Eusebio as the country’s all-time leading scorer at the tournament. Eusebio had scored nine goals during the 1966 World Cup.

Rafael Leao added another goal in the second half, while an own goal from Uzbekistan completed the emphatic win for Portugal.

Ronaldo also came close to increasing his tally further, but the Uzbekistan goalkeeper denied him on multiple occasions.

The victory moved Portugal to the top of Group K with four points ahead of their final group-stage match against Colombia.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has directed officers and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to stop engaging in unauthorised social media activities while in uniform.

The directive followed concerns over the increasing number of police officers creating online videos, hosting live sessions and posting other content on social media platforms without official approval.

Force Public Relations Officer, Anietie Edem, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday.

According to the statement, officers are no longer allowed to post unauthorised content in police uniform or publicly comment on official police matters without approval.

The statement also warned personnel against revealing sensitive operational details or using their positions in the force for personal publicity, entertainment or commercial purposes.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, has directed all officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to desist from unauthorised social media activities capable of undermining the integrity, professionalism, and public image of the Force,” the statement reads.

Edem explained that the police chief acknowledged the importance of social media as a communication tool. He, however, stressed that officers must use such platforms in line with existing laws, regulations and the police social media policy.

Disu also ordered commissioners of police, heads of departments and other senior officers to educate personnel under their supervision and ensure compliance with the directive.

The IGP further instructed the Force Intelligence Department and the Professional Standards Department, also known as the X-Squad, to intensify monitoring of social media activities involving police personnel.

According to the statement, supervisory officers would be held responsible if they fail to act against officers who violate the directive within their commands.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kaduna State Police Command has arraigned 24 suspects in connection with the killing of a woman accused of child theft in the Maraban Jos area of the state.

The suspects appeared before a magistrate court sitting at the NDA Junction in Kaduna, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the police spokesperson, Mansir Hassan.

The incident occurred on Sunday after a mob allegedly attacked the woman over claims that she stole a child.

Hassan said the police received a distress call about the attack despite the absence of evidence to support the allegation against the victim.

According to him, the divisional police officer in the area led a team of officers to the scene and rescued the woman before taking her to the police station for protection and investigation.

He, however, said the mob later stormed the station, overpowered officers on duty and forcefully took the woman away before killing her and setting her body ablaze.

The police spokesperson said the suspects are facing charges that include criminal conspiracy, inciting public disturbance, destruction of public and police property, mischief and culpable homicide.

Hassan added that the court adjourned the matter until July 21 for further hearing. He said the suspects were remanded in a correctional facility pending the outcome of the case.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Government described the arraignment as a positive move toward justice and respect for the rule of law.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, praised the Kaduna police command for what he called swift action in prosecuting those linked to the incident.

“Governor Uba Sani’s administration will not tolerate any form of mob action or jungle justice. We urge residents to always report suspected criminal activities to security agencies and allow the law to take its course,” the commissioner said.

“Anyone found taking the law into their own hands will face the full consequences of the law, regardless of status or affiliation.”

By Uzair Adam

Residents of Dorayi Karama and surrounding communities in Kano State have formally petitioned the Kano State Censorship Board over plans to establish a Film House within their residential area, expressing concern over security, moral values and the welfare of young people.

The Daily Reality reports that the concerns were raised during a media briefing on Tuesday by Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim, a lecturer at Northwest University Kano, who spoke on behalf of community-based organisations, religious leaders, elders and other stakeholders in the area.

He explained that the petition was jointly submitted under the leadership of the Centre for Community Support and Human Development (CCSHD), alongside the Kano Muslim Women’s Foundation, Community Build and Raise Initiative Hub, Arewa Mu Tashi Mu Farka and Danfodiyo Islamic Center.

Dr. Ibrahim said residents were worried about the possible impact of the proposed facility on security and peaceful coexistence in the community, especially considering previous security challenges experienced in the area.

“We are not opposed to development or investment that benefits our people, but such projects must take into account the nature of the community and the concerns of residents,” he said.

The petitioners argued that existing regulations governing film-related activities in Kano require authorities to ensure that such projects are compatible with environmental standards, cultural values and the interests of host communities before approval is granted.

They called on the Kano State Censorship Board, the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) and other relevant agencies to conduct a thorough assessment of the proposed project and suspend further work until all legal and regulatory requirements are fully met.

The community leaders stressed that their position was not aimed at obstructing development, but at ensuring that any project within the area aligns with the aspirations, safety and values of residents.

“Our appeal is that due process should be followed, and that the relevant authorities should carefully examine the implications of the project before allowing it to proceed,” Dr. Ibrahim added.

Copies of the petition were also sent to the Chairman of Gwale Local Government Area, the Kano State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Kano State Hisbah Board, the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, the Kano State Legal Aid Council, the Council of Ulama, the Emir of Kano’s Palace, district and ward heads, as well as mosque and community leaders in the area.

The residents reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence, respect for the rule of law, and continued collaboration with government authorities in promoting sustainable development while preserving the moral and cultural values of the community.

Among those who endorsed the petition were Professor Yahaya Imam of Bayero University Kano, Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim of Northwest University Kano, Malam Ilyasu Sulaiman of Riyadul Quran, Dr. Idris Dan Fodiyo, Sheikh Muhammad Bukhari Ibrahim of Anas Bin Malik Academy, Barrister Wada Bashir, Imam Ibrahim Muhammad of Salafussalih Juma’at Mosque, Malam Aliyu Yahaya Dorayi, Malam Abdurrahman Rabiu Bukar Dorayi, Malam Abdurrahman Said Dorayi and Malam Mujahid Ilyasu Sulaiman.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Government has shut down two privately owned health training institutions in Nasarawa Local Government Area for operating without the required approvals and failing to meet regulatory standards.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Ministry of Health, Nabilusi Abubakar K/Na’isa.

According to the statement, the affected institutions are IBN SINA College of Health Science and Technology, located at Dakata Kawaji adjacent to a Juma’at Mosque, and Life Line College of Health Science and Technology, situated in the Dakata Industrial Area along Bela Road, Tsamiyar Gare, Mai Sikeli Street.

The ministry said the decision followed a comprehensive assessment which found that both institutions fell short of the minimum requirements for the establishment and operation of health training schools in Kano State.

It stated that the institutions were operating without verification and approval from the Kano State Ministry of Health and had not secured accreditation from the relevant professional and regulatory bodies responsible for health education and training in Nigeria.

The assessment further revealed serious shortcomings, including a shortage of qualified teaching personnel, inadequate learning facilities, poor infrastructure and non-compliance with educational and operational standards required for effective health manpower development.

The ministry also observed poor adherence to professional ethics, regulatory guidelines and other mandatory requirements aimed at ensuring quality healthcare education and producing competent healthcare professionals.

Speaking on the closure, K/Na’isa said the ministry remained committed to protecting students, parents and the wider public from institutions that undermine educational quality and professional standards.

“The training of healthcare workers must be conducted only in institutions that meet approved standards and regulatory requirements,” he said.

He added that the government would continue to enforce compliance among health training institutions across the state to safeguard the quality and credibility of healthcare education.

The state government also warned proprietors of health training institutions to strictly comply with all legal and regulatory provisions guiding their operations.

According to the ministry, shutting down non-compliant institutions is necessary to protect students, promote quality healthcare education and maintain excellence in healthcare service delivery across Kano State.

By Maryam Ahmad

A United Nations commission of inquiry has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, alleging that Israeli forces deliberately targeted Palestinian children and inflicted conditions aimed at destroying the future of the Palestinian population.

In a report released on Monday, the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry said children accounted for nearly 30 per cent of the more than 67,000 Palestinians reported killed during the conflict. The commission argued that the use of heavy weapons in densely populated areas, attacks on essential services, and severe humanitarian conditions demonstrated genocidal intent.

The inquiry also documented widespread psychological trauma, attacks on healthcare facilities, and worsening conditions for children in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Israel strongly rejected the findings, describing them as false and politically motivated. Israeli officials said the military takes measures to minimise civilian casualties and blamed Hamas for operating within civilian areas and diverting humanitarian resources.

The report is likely to intensify international debate over the conduct of the war, which began after Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and has since resulted in heavy casualties and widespread destruction across Gaza.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The High Court of Justice in Kebbi State has postponed proceedings in the trial of a nurse, Hannatu James, who is facing prosecution over the alleged death of two minors at Martha Bamaiyi General Hospital in Zuru.

Justice Nusirat Ibrahim Umar, who presided over the matter at the Birnin Kebbi Judicial Division on Monday, fixed July 13, 2026, for continuation of hearing after the lead counsel for the defendant was reported to be ill and absent from court.

James is being prosecuted on a one-count charge of “death caused in the act of committing an offence” contrary to Section 196 of the Kebbi State Penal Code Law, 2021.

The defendant had earlier entered a not guilty plea.

According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on March 18, 2026, during treatment of seven-year-old Zulaihat Sale and three-year-old Mufida Sale at the hospital.

Prosecutors alleged that the nurse administered quinine injection intravenously instead of using the approved medical infusion process. The state further claimed that the children lost consciousness after the procedure and died shortly afterwards.

At Monday’s sitting, Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice, Aishatu Abbas, led the prosecution team alongside other government lawyers.

A counsel from the defence chamber informed the court that the lead lawyer handling the case was indisposed and requested an adjournment.

The prosecution did not oppose the request. However, state counsel asked the defence team to ensure readiness at the next hearing because witnesses had travelled from Zuru to attend the proceedings.

Justice Umar subsequently granted the application for adjournment. The judge also advised the defence to make proper arrangements ahead of the next sitting, stating that any available lawyer from the chamber could proceed with the matter if necessary.

The court further directed its registry to convey apologies to the witnesses, noting that the postponement resulted from the illness of the defence counsel.

The matter was adjourned until July 13 for hearing.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The management of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has suspended a lecturer accused of physically assaulting Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) candidates who reportedly arrived late for their ongoing examinations.

The decision followed the circulation of a viral video on social media which showed the lecturer flogging some students on the institution’s campus.

The Polytechnic announced the suspension in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Hajia Halimat Garba.

According to the statement, the lecturer has been relieved of his duties pending the outcome of an investigation into the incident.

“The attention of Kwara State Polytechnic management has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media in which a lecturer is seen physically reprimanding students.

“The Management wishes to clarify that the students depicted in the video are not Polytechnic students but rather IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board) candidates who arrived late for their ongoing examinations.

“While the intention for which the action was done is not yet known, we must emphasize that the approach taken was wholly inappropriate as the Polytechnic stands firmly against any form of violence or physical punishment as a means of discipline.

“We believe that education should be rooted in respect, understanding, and constructive guidance, and that there are far more effective and humane ways to instill important values in students.

“The Polytechnic Management therefore suspends the concerned lecturer from his duties henceforth, pending the outcome of the findings on this matter.

“We appreciate the concerns raised by stakeholders regarding this incident and assures the public that the matter is being taken very seriously.”

The institution also reaffirmed its commitment to discipline and ethical standards, while assuring members of the public that steps were being taken to avoid a repeat of such conduct.

“We are determining the necessary steps to prevent subsequent recurrence in the future,” the statement added.