Month: February 2025

Group urges Kano govt to reconsider N2.5 billion mass wedding allocation

By Uzair Adam

A civil society organization, War Against Injustice (WAI), has urged the Kano State government to prioritize essential sectors such as education, healthcare, and job creation instead of allocating N2.5 billion for quarterly mass weddings in 2025.

In a statement on Monday, WAI’s Executive Director, Comr. Umar Ibrahim Umar, expressed concern over the government’s decision, describing it as a misplacement of priorities at a time when the state is struggling with unemployment, poor infrastructure, and rising social challenges.

The group emphasized the need for strategic investments in job creation to curb youth unemployment, which has contributed to the rise in street crimes such as phone snatching and violent clashes.

It suggested that supporting small-scale industries in areas like Bompai, Challawa, and Sharada would stimulate economic growth and provide sustainable job opportunities.

WAI also highlighted the state of education in Kano, citing a report by UNICEF that only 9.6% of primary school pupils have reading proficiency, while 11.2% possess basic numeracy skills.

Despite the government’s renovation efforts, many schools remain in poor condition, requiring urgent intervention.

Similarly, the organization pointed to the challenges facing the healthcare sector, where many primary health care centers lack adequate facilities, equipment, and personnel.

It called for immediate action to improve medical services across the state. The statement stressed that channeling funds into productive sectors such as agriculture could help lift citizens out of poverty, addressing the root causes of social instability and marital challenges.

“We urge the Kano State government to reconsider the allocation of N2.5 billion for mass weddings and instead focus on investments that will directly improve the lives of its people,” the statement read.

WAI further called on the government to promote good governance by making decisions that align with the pressing needs of the people, emphasizing that economic stability would enable citizens to build strong families and communities.

Khaby Lame visits Senegalese President to promote youth empowerment

By Maryam Ahmad

Senegalese-born TikTok star Khaby Lame, the most-followed personality on the platform, recently met with Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, in Dakar. The visit focused on youth empowerment and using social media for positive change.

Lame, who was born in Senegal before relocating to Italy, expressed his commitment to giving back to his homeland. He underscored the importance of education and digital literacy, highlighting how platforms like TikTok can inspire and educate young people.

President Faye praised Lame for his global influence, noting that his journey from humble beginnings to international fame inspires African youth. The president encouraged young people to leverage digital opportunities for self-development and economic growth.

Beyond meeting with the president, Lame partnered with UNICEF during his stay in Senegal. Over four days, he engaged with children in health, education, and climate change awareness programs. His visit aimed to draw attention to the challenges faced by African youth and promote initiatives that support their growth.

Lame’s visit underscores the power of social media influencers to drive change. His collaboration with government and international organisations highlights the role digital platforms play in shaping the future of young Africans.

Many Nigerian youth are also turning to social media for career opportunities, so Lame’s story motivates content creators and entrepreneurs across the continent. His rise to fame proves that talent, creativity, and persistence can open global doors, regardless of one’s background.

FUBK honours Dr Ekeh for ₦50m IT infrastructure donation

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The Senate of the Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) has commended Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, CEO of Zinox Group and Founder of konga.com, for his generous commitment of fifty million naira to enhance the university’s IT infrastructure. The commendation was issued at the 34th Senate Meeting held on Thursday, 30 January 2025, in the Senate Chambers of the university. 

The Senate acknowledged the tremendous support and commitment of the IT boss and philanthropist, who is passionateabout education and technological development in the institution and the country at large. 

Chairman of the Senate and Vice Chancellor of FUBK, Prof. MZ Umar, informed the Senate that he, along with the Chancellor of the University, HRM Eze (Dr.) Cletus I. Ilumuanya, CON, the Obi of Obinugu, recently visited Dr. Ekeh in Lagos, where he reaffirmed his commitment to providing the university with essential IT resources.

FUBK Bulletin reports that Dr. Ekeh received an honorary Doctorate from the University at the maiden combined Convocation ceremony, held on 12 October 2024.

Meanwhile, the Senate considered the Examination Results for the 2023/2024 Academic Session after Dr. Mohammed Bashar Danlami, the director of examinations and registration, presented them.

Nigeria Customs Service exposes fake Facebook accounts, fraudulent activities

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a warning to the general public about the existence of fake Facebook accounts impersonating the National Public Relations Officer (PRO), Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada.

According to the service in a statement on Saturday, these accounts, which are not affiliated with the NCS, are being used to scam unsuspecting individuals by sharing false contact details for illegal activities.

The NCS has confirmed that the official and verified Facebook page of the National PRO is marked with a blue verification badge. However, fraudulent individuals have created fake accounts, aiming to deceive the public.

Furthermore, the NCS has been alerted to a fraudster using the phone number +234 706 301 0692 to defraud individuals using the name of the National PRO.

The service reiterates that this number does not belong to the National PRO or any official of the NCS and is not associated with the service.

The NCS urges everyone to report such fake profiles and fraudulent activities to help prevent further scams.

Police rescue woman from suspected ritualist in Abuja

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully rescued a young woman from a suspected armed robber and ritualist while launching a manhunt for the fleeing suspect.

The development was disclosed in a statement released by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday.

According to the statement, the incident took place at a hotel in the Wuse district of Abuja, where officers discovered a 25-year-old woman, Promise Eze from Ebonyi State, tied to a small chair with her mouth covered in plaster.

She was found unconscious and in distress when the police arrived at the scene on January 31, 2025, following an emergency call from the hotel staff.

The victim was rushed to Wuse District Hospital, where she regained consciousness.

The statement further revealed that the victim had checked into the hotel on January 30 with a man who introduced himself as Emmanuel Okoro from Lagos State.

However, investigations later showed that the suspect had initially contacted her online, using the alias Michael Prince and claiming to be an employee of an oil company based in Delta State.

The statement added, “The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully rescued a young woman from the clutches of a suspected armed robber and ritualist, launching an immediate manhunt for the fleeing suspect.

“On January 31, 2025, at approximately 11:30 AM, the Command received a distress call from a hotel in the Wuse area of the FCT, reporting suspicious activity in one of their rooms.

“Responding swiftly, police operatives arrived at the scene and discovered a 25-year-old woman, Promise Eze, from Ebonyi State, tied to a small chair with her mouth covered in plaster. She was found unconscious and in distress. Officers acted immediately, freeing her from captivity and rushing her to Wuse District Hospital, where she was resuscitated.

“Preliminary investigations revealed a disturbing pattern of deception and violence. The victim had checked into the hotel a day earlier, on January 30, 2025, at about 7:00 AM, in the company of a man who identified himself as Emmanuel Okoro from Lagos State.

“However, during police questioning, the victim disclosed that she had met the suspect online, where he introduced himself under the alias Michael Prince, claiming to be an oil company employee based in Delta State. Initially, he invited her to Delta, but after she declined, they agreed to meet in Abuja.

“Tragically, what was meant to be an innocent meeting turned into a harrowing ordeal. The suspect allegedly brandished a dagger, using it to threaten and subdue the victim before restraining her by tying her hands and legs and taping her mouth shut inside the bathroom. He then fled the scene, stealing her two mobile phones.

“Alarmingly, before escaping, the victim overheard him speaking to suspected accomplices over the phone, informing them that he was on his way to regroup before returning to the hotel to ‘finish the job.”

US-based Nigerian doctor dies by suicide over child support dispute

By Muhammad Sulaiman

A US-based Nigerian cardiologist, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, has reportedly died by suicide after being ordered to pay $15,000 monthly in child support. 

According to The Punch, the 36-year-old took his life on January 26, 2025, following a legal battle with his ex-wife that also led to the loss of his medical license.

Dr. Erinne is survived by his children, Ugonna and Munachi, as well as his parents and siblings. A memorial is scheduled for February 3 in Elkridge, Maryland. 

Dr. Erinne’s passing has ignited conversations on social media about how family court decisions affect mental health, particularly in Western nations.

El-Rufai rejects political pretense, critiques APC direction

By Uzair Adam

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has dismissed notions that his political style is merely theatrical.

In a recent exchange on X (formerly Twitter), El-Rufai responded to a user’s praise of his memoir, Accidental Public Servant, by clarifying that he has no interest in playing a role akin to that of a “Nollywood actor” in governance.

The online user had remarked that after reading El-Rufai’s book, it was clear that no politician would invite him into their cabinet unless they were truly dedicated to national development.

El-Rufai thanked the tweep for the kind words, underscoring that his record speaks for itself. “I don’t know how to pretend. Being a Nollywood actor in governance is for some others, not for us committed to real service,” he wrote.

In recent public appearances, the former governor has been vocal in his criticism of the ruling party’s current direction. Reflecting on his role as a founding member of the APC, El-Rufai lamented the party’s drift from its foundational goals.

“I no longer recognize the APC,” he declared at an event in Abuja. “Our original mission was to combat corruption, revive the economy, and secure our nation. Yet, these priorities remain unaddressed, and the party’s internal structures have all but disintegrated.”

El-Rufai’s comments come amid ongoing debates about the nature of political engagement in Nigeria.

When questioned by Daniel Bwala—special adviser on policy communication to President Bola Tinubu—about whether his stance would be any different if he were serving in a cabinet position, El-Rufai reiterated his long-held position.

Citing his previous experience as a cabinet minister over two decades ago, he noted that he had always maintained a distance from positions that conflicted with his principles.

“I made it clear to Asiwaju that I was not interested in any future government role,” he stated, adding that his critique of the party’s current state would have been voiced regardless of his position.

El-Rufai’s forthright remarks and his commitment to authenticity continue to fuel discussions about the future of Nigerian politics and the need for leaders who prioritize substantive change over political theatrics.

Kano’s ₦2.5 billion wedding: A misallocation of resources for development

By El-Yassar Ahmad

Kano State’s recent ₦2.5 billion expenditure on a mass wedding initiative has sparked widespread criticism for being a poor use of public funds. At a time when the state faces significant challenges in sectors such as power supply, education, healthcare, and transportation, many believe this substantial sum could have been better invested in addressing these critical needs.

While states like Lagos prioritise infrastructure and sustainable growth—evidenced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s ₦3.5 billion investment in power generation—Kano’s leadership is drawing attention to what is seen as frivolous taxpayer spending. 

Many people, especially on social media, argue that such spending represents a missed opportunity to improve the lives of Kano’s citizens through long-term, impactful development.

This underscores a concerning trend of mismanagement and a lack of transparency that hinders progress in the state. Public resources ought to be invested in projects that meet the fundamental needs of the populace—healthcare, education, and essential services—rather than wasted on short-term initiatives that provide minimal enduring benefit.

It is high time for Kano’s leadership to reassess its priorities and ensure that public funds are used responsibly for the betterment of its citizens. Only through strategic investment in infrastructure and services can the state attain meaningful progress and enhance the quality of life for its people.

Kano gov’t vows tougher measures against sanitation violators

By Uzair Adam 

The Kano State Government has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the movement of vehicles and the operation of motor parks during environmental sanitation hours, warning that violators will face strict penalties.  

The Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, issued the warning on Saturday while overseeing the end-of-month sanitation exercise across motor parks, markets, and major roads in the state.  

He announced plans to block key roads to prevent travellers from entering Kano during designated sanitation hours. 

The commissioner also highlighted gaps in waste management, emphasising the need for immediate intervention.  

“The issue of vehicle movement during sanitation hours will not be taken lightly, especially for those coming from outside Kano who continue to violate our regulations. 

In the next exercise, we will deploy adequate security and block some roads leading into the state,” he said.  

Dr Hashim also criticised motor parks that remained operational during the sanitation period, stressing that such actions would not be tolerated. 

“Some motor parks continue their business activities in defiance of the law, which is unacceptable. We will take decisive steps to ensure compliance,” he added.  

He urged residents and travellers to respect the restrictions and adjust their travel plans to avoid disruptions. 

He reiterated that any individual or transport operator caught violating the directive would face strict penalties.  

“I want to express my displeasure over the continuous movement of vehicles during sanitation hours. This is a clear violation of existing regulations, and anyone who fails to comply will face appropriate sanctions,” he warned.  

Meanwhile, Dr. Hashim commended the residents of the Kauyen Alu community in the Tarauni Local Government Area for actively cleaning their environment, including cemeteries, drainage channels, and surrounding areas.  

The Chairman of Tarauni Local Government, Alhaji Ahmad Muhammad, lauded the commissioner’s commitment to environmental cleanliness, assuring him of the local government’s ongoing efforts to eliminate open defecation and enhance sanitation standards.  

During the exercise, the task force arrested 28 offenders and imposed fines totalling N78,000 on those who violated sanitation laws.

Solar-powered progress: Governor Yusuf’s vision for a safer, thriving Kano

By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman 

Kano State has experienced a remarkable transformation under the leadership of the state governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Thus, the scenario has continued to earn the governor more commendations. The achievement followed his administration’s outstanding progress in key areas, such as infrastructure, safety and economic growth. 

In fact, among his administration’s most notable achievements is the widespread installation of solar street lights on major roads and key areas in the state.

This initiative, which has enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the state’s urban environment, has had far-reaching positive effects on the safety, economy and overall well-being of its residents.

Since taking office, Governor Yusuf has prioritized the provision of solar-powered street lights. This bold initiative is part of a larger vision to enhance the state’s infrastructure, improve public safety, and promote sustainable development. 

Solar energy, being both cost-effective and eco-friendly, has proven to be an excellent alternative to traditional street lighting, which previously depended heavily on expensive diesel generators. 

Not only has this shift saved the state substantial amounts of money, but it has also ensured that major roads and urban streets remain illuminated throughout the night, significantly boosting security for residents and businesses alike.

Governor Yusuf’s pioneering solar street lighting project aligns seamlessly with the global push to increase the adoption of renewable energy sources to mitigate climate change.

Beyond merely brightening streets and residential areas, the solar lighting initiative has extended the hours businesses can operate. 

This has stimulated economic activity in the evenings, benefiting both large corporations and small enterprises.

The improved street lighting has fostered a sense of security and normalcy, particularly in areas notorious for crime due to poor visibility. The state’s once-limited night economy is now flourishing, with businesses staying open later, providing more opportunities for local traders, artisans, and entrepreneurs.

A notable outcome of the solar street lighting project has been significantly reduced criminal activity, especially crimes such as phone snatching, drug trafficking and other petty offences. According to a report from the state police command, the installation of solar streetlights has led to a noticeable decline in crime rates, particularly in urban zones and densely populated areas. 

Before the solar lights were installed, the state’s city faced mounting challenges with night-time criminal activities. Criminals frequently took advantage of the poorly lit streets to commit offences, including phone snatching, robberies, and the smuggling of illegal drugs.

However, the increased visibility brought about by the solar lights in previously notorious areas, such as Kofar Dan Agundi, Zoo Road, Sabon Gari, Sharada and Tudun Maliki, has resulted in a sharp drop in criminal activities, with phone snatching being notably reduced. Local authorities have noted that these areas, once plagued by insecurity, are now safer and more secure.

Kano, one of the nation’s most populous and economically significant city-states, has long struggled with unreliable power supply and limited infrastructure. 

Under Governor Yusuf’s leadership, however, the state’s economy—particularly in urban areas—has revitalized, largely thanks to the solar street light initiative.

The improved lighting has created a more conducive environment for businesses, especially those that depend on evening hours to generate revenue.

For instance, street hawkers, small-scale traders and night market vendors have greatly benefited from the extended hours of operation. 

With more reliable lighting, these businesses now have the opportunity to thrive after dark, contributing to increased sales and revenue. 

This transformation in the state’s economic landscape is evident in the resurgence of night markets and retail businesses catering to residents long after sunset. 

Moreover, the move away from expensive diesel generators, once used to power streetlights and business premises during power outages, has significantly reduced operational costs for many businesses.

The financial savings generated by the solar street light project have been substantial. These savings have freed up valuable resources that the state government can reallocate to other critical sectors, such as healthcare, education and further infrastructure development.

Governor Yusuf’s decision to invest in solar energy reflects a broader global trend of transitioning to more sustainable and cost-efficient energy solutions. This underlines his commitment to modernising the state’s infrastructure while being mindful of its environmental impact.

In addition to improving infrastructure, Governor Yusuf’s administration has taken decisive steps to address state unemployment. 

A key initiative to support local entrepreneurs has been the distribution of N50,000 to 465 street hawkers across the state’s 44 local government areas. 

Vendors have widely celebrated this gesture, which they see as a direct effort to empower small businesses and reduce unemployment.

The N23.2 million provided to the street hawkers has enabled many to expand their businesses, purchase goods in bulk and even invest in new ventures. 

This financial assistance has proved to be a lifeline for numerous hawkers, helping them become more self-sufficient and less reliant on informal employment.  The initiative has been met with widespread praise from the public, particularly from the hawkers themselves, who now have the capital to reinvest in their businesses, boosting the local economy.

Governor Yusuf’s administration has set a new benchmark for regional governance. His focus on solar street lighting, crime reduction, economic revitalisation and youth empowerment has created a model of leadership for other states to emulate. 

The positive outcomes of these initiatives, particularly in terms of enhanced security, economic vibrancy, and infrastructural development, have reinvigorated the state and instilled a renewed sense of optimism and purpose among its residents.

Looking ahead, the continued expansion of solar street lighting and ongoing support for small businesses and local entrepreneurs demonstrate that Governor Yusuf’s vision for the state is one of sustained growth, security and prosperity.

His leadership has shown that even in the face of significant challenges, innovative solutions can uplift communities and lay the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future.

In summary, the changes in the state under Governor Yusuf’s guidance exemplify the impact of considerate and inclusive leadership. 

Governor Yusuf has set the state on a path toward long-term success by investing in infrastructure, empowering the people, and prioritising security.

Residents, from street vendors to entrepreneurs, are experiencing the benefits of these initiatives, positioning the state to become one of the most vibrant and prosperous areas in the country.

Suleiman covers activities of the state Deputy Governor’s office for The Triumph.