Month: February 2025

By Uzair Adam

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has engaged an additional service provider for the 2025 Hajj following operational challenges with Mashariq al Dhahabia, the Saudi Arabian company initially contracted to serve Nigerian pilgrims.

A statement by NAHCON’s Head of Public Affairs, Muhammad Ahmad Musa, revealed that the decision was made to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience after identifying issues that could hinder the seamless participation of Nigerian pilgrims.

Mashariq al Dhahabia had earlier threatened legal action against NAHCON, alleging a breach of contract due to the engagement of another company to provide services during the Masha’ir period—the five days pilgrims spend in Muna, Arafah, and Muzdalifah in Makkah.

The company argued that this move violated their agreement as the sole service provider and gave NAHCON 20 days to initiate discussions on the matter.

However, NAHCON maintained that it had acted in the best interest of Nigerian pilgrims, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability.

“The decision to supplement Mashariq’s services with an additional provider was made after identifying operational challenges, particularly issues with Mashariq’s listing on the Saudi Visa Portal, Nusuk.

“Despite subsequent corrective actions by Mashariq al Dhahabia, NAHCON’s proactive decision was aimed at meeting Saudi deadlines and ensuring uninterrupted service for Nigerian pilgrims,” the statement read.

NAHCON dismissed reports of legal threats as an attempt to pressure the commission into granting an exclusive monopoly on the state pilgrim quota.

It reiterated its commitment to fostering a competitive service environment that prioritizes cost reduction and service quality.

The commission assured that it would continue upholding its contractual obligations and working transparently to safeguard the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.

By Maryam Ahmad

Israeli authorities are reportedly holding at least 665 Palestinian bodies, many of which have been buried or stored in refrigerators since the 1960s, according to the National Campaign for Retrieval of Bodies. 

The campaign reveals that the bodies include individuals who were killed in past decades, as well as those who lost their lives as recently as last week.

The practice of withholding bodies has sparked widespread condemnation from Palestinian families and human rights groups. 

Relatives demand the return of their loved ones for proper burial, while critics argue the act is a violation of fundamental humanitarian rights.

Israeli authorities have not publicly addressed the full scope of the issue. Still, it is believed the bodies are kept for security or political reasons, with some allegedly buried in unmarked graves or stored in cold storage.

Human rights organisations have called for the immediate return of the bodies and demanded accountability for what they describe as an ongoing violation of human dignity.

By Garba Sidi 

Historically, in Jigawa State, no member had served in the House of Representatives three times before Ibrahim Usman Kamfani Auyo did so. Although there is no tenure limitation for the House of Representatives position in the Nigerian constitution — from Section 65, which states qualifications to contest the position, to Section 66, which outlines details of disqualifications — nowhere does it state the tenure limitation for.

Members like Hon. Musa Sarkin Adar served from 2003 to 2015, representing Kebe and Tambuwal Constituency, and Hon. Aliyu Madaki served from 2003 to 2015, representing Dange-Shuni, Bodinga, and Tureta Federal Constituency, all from Sokoto state, North West. Hon. Muhammed Tahir Mungono served from 2003 to 2015, representing Mungono, Marte, and Nganzai federal constituency, and Hon. Babagana Kingibe served from 2003 to 2011, representing Biu, Kwaya, and Bayu federal constituency, both from Borno State, in the North East. 

Hon. Emmanuel Jime served from 2007 to 2015, representing Makurdi and Guma Federal constituency of Benue State. Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase served from 2007 to 2019, representing Wase federal Constituency of Plateau State, both from North Central.

Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila Served from 2003 to 2023 representing Surulere Federal Constituency of Lagos State and Hon. Lasun Yusuf Served from 2011 to 2019, representing Irepodun, Olorunda, Osogbo and Orolu Federal Constituency of Osun State, both from South West. 

Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha Served from 2007 to 2023, representing Isuikwuato and Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State and Hon. Ifeanyi Chudy Momah Served from 2003 to 2011, representing Ihiala Federal Constituency of Anambra State both from South East. 

Hon. Essien Ayi Served from 2003 to 2015, representing Oron, Mbo, Okobo, Udung-Uko and Urue-Offong Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State and Hon. Leo Ogor Served from 2007 to 2023, representing Isoko Federal Constituency of Delta State, both from South South. 

All of these members served more than two terms, as listed above. Section 14(2)(a) of the Nigerian constitution states, “The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. ” This section implies that members of the government, including the House of Representatives, have a responsibility to serve the interests of their constituents. 

As we know, the responsibilities of a member of the House of Representatives as outlined in the Nigeria constitution, are to play a crucial role in creating and voting on laws, they are expected to: assist their constituents, addressing their concerns and helping them navigate government services, members also can speak on the House floor to express their views on legislation, policies and issues affecting their constituents, members vote on bills that impact their constituents, ensuring that their voices are heard in the legislative process, doing all these they must ensure that they are in the best interest of their constituents.

Looking at these responsibilities laid out in the backbone of Nigeria’s leadership framework (Constitution), every good citizen should abide by the rule of law documented in it. Kamfani Auyo initially accepted these responsibilities, but after being sworn in, he turned away from the law and acted in ways that pleased only himself and his party leaders. We have often heard that he gifts cars and other things to these leaders to gain their support so that he can run as he likes. 

Some people in his constituency feel that Kamfani Auyo has not fulfilled the responsibilities that rest on his shoulders. Their criticism concerns his inability to raise motions among his fellow members and address some pressing issues in his constituency. Some argue that his lack of deep western education is the reason for this, but I oppose that notion. 

If we consider how his fellow member from the same state, Hon. Muhammed Gudaji Kazaure, representing Kazaure, Roni, Gwiwa, and Yankwashi, used his unpolished grammar to address his people’s problems, it became a habit for the Speaker of that reign, Femi Gbajabiamila, to ask Kazaure if there was an issue he needed to bring to the House. 

So, why can’t he learn from Kazaure and do what is necessary for the interest of his people? We didn’t vote for him to simply sit and watch his fellow members discuss their people’s problems while there are numerous issues in his constituency, day by day, putting the lives of many at risk—like kidney disease, which is primarily affecting the elderly, leaving their families in grief and sorrow to this day. 

Many federal roads require reconstruction due to the accidents they cause, which result in the loss of limbs and, all too often, lives. Yet, inaction persists, as funds are merely allocated to purchase motorcycles for a select few, while a portion is distributed as small amounts of capital to a few of his political associates, which they then boast about on social media—that’s all. 

Their low IQ prevents their supporters from urging their masters to prioritise lasting solutions for themselves and future generations. They consider the sums he occasionally gives to them—taken from the millions in the constituency’s treasury—sufficient, even though they cannot even cover their basic needs. Their online defenses are full of unpolished rhetoric and spelling errors. He is merely using them for his own benefit. Unfortunately, their cognitive sense is not in a good condition to understand this. 

May God be our helpers.

Garba Sidi wrote via sidihadejia@gmail.com. 

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Niger’s military junta has proposed a five-year transition period of military rule before returning power to civilians.

The announcement was made during a recent summit, where Salha Haladou, head of the Economic and Sustainable Development Committee, presented the plan.

The proposal includes aligning Niger’s economy with the Sahel region’s AES economic policies, reducing the government workforce to cut costs, rejecting LGBT+ initiatives, and tightening control over media and social platforms.

Additionally, the junta has approved mandatory military service for all young citizens who complete their education.

The plan has sparked mixed reactions. Some citizens and regional allies support the reforms, citing the need for stability and economic integration.

However, critics, including human rights groups and Western nations, worry about the impact on democratic freedoms and the extended timeline for military rule.

Niger faces ongoing challenges, including security threats from extremist groups and economic difficulties.

The junta’s ability to implement these reforms while maintaining public trust will be closely watched in the coming months.

By Maryam Ahmad

Francesco Rivella, the creator of the beloved hazelnut spread Nutella, has passed away at the age of 97 on Valentine’s Day.

Rivella, an Italian entrepreneur and food innovator, played a key role in developing the iconic chocolate-hazelnut spread that became a global favorite.

First introduced in the 1960s, Nutella quickly gained popularity for its rich taste and creamy texture, becoming a breakfast staple in households worldwide.

His passing marks the end of an era for the food industry, as millions remember the man who revolutionized sweet spreads. Tributes from fans and industry leaders have poured in, celebrating Rivella’s contribution to culinary history.

Rivella’s legacy lives on in every jar of Nutella, bringing joy to generations of chocolate lovers.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

In a generous move to support education, AA Rano, on behalf of himself, his family, and the AA Rano Group of Companies, has announced a donation of ₦150 million to Bayero University Kano (BUK).

“We are confident that the university will utilize these resources to enhance its academic performance,” AA Rano stated.

The donation comes just days after BUK conferred an honorary doctorate on AA Rano in recognition of his philanthropic contributions to the state and the country.

University officials have expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that it will significantly impact academic and infrastructural development at the institution.

By Uzair Adam

The Council of Ulama has resolved the leadership dispute over the Imamship of Masjid Jami’ur Rahman in Kundila, Kano.

Announcing the resolution, the council’s National Chairman, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, stated that after consultations with both parties, they were able to resolve the matter.

He added that it was agreed that Sheikh Muhammad Bin Uthman, the original Chief Imam of the old mosque, would return to Sahaba Mosque to continue leading prayers and teaching.

The Daily Reality recalled that the dispute had generated widespread concern, especially after videos of the controversy went viral, sparking discussions among the public and scholars.

Speaking to journalists after the council’s meeting, Sheikh Khalil added that the faction led by Mai Kifi would retain leadership of the newly established mosque, Jami’ur Rahman.

He confirmed that Sheikh Muhammad Bin Usman had accepted the decision and would resume his role at Sahaba Mosque.

The council chairman also commended security agencies for their role in resolving the matter, which had drawn attention across Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has unveiled the role of billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk in his administration, referring to him as his enforcer-in-chief.

Trump explained that Musk, along with his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team, is tasked with ensuring the implementation of executive orders issued by the presidency.

During a joint interview with Fox News, the U.S. president notes that it would be beneficial to execute his directives promptly.

According to Trump: “You write an executive order and you think it’s done, you send it out, it doesn’t get done. It doesn’t get implemented.

“And some guy that maybe didn’t want to do it, all of a sudden, he’s signing it.”

Throughout the interview, both Trump and Musk expressed mutual admiration while dismissing concerns that the president might be exceeding his executive authority.

Over the past three weeks, Trump has signed numerous executive orders, with several facing legal challenges over potential constitutional violations.

“One of the biggest functions of the DOGE team is just making sure that the presidential executive orders are actually carried out,” Musk told Fox News.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has approved the payment of nine months’ salary arrears to 2,369 sanitation workers across the state.

The payment, covering June 2024 to February 2025, was sanctioned by the Kano State Executive Council under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, announced the development on Tuesday, describing it as a crucial step toward enhancing environmental sustainability in the state.

He commended the government’s dedication to improving hygiene and the well-being of its citizens, adding that the timely disbursement would serve as motivation for the workers.

“This action reflects the unwavering commitment of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to ensuring a cleaner and healthier Kano. Our sanitation workers have shown commendable patience and dedication despite the delay,” Dr. Hashim stated.

He further expressed appreciation to the State Executive Council for facilitating the payment and assured that other sanitation personnel, including House-to-House Inspectors and members of the Sanitation Vanguard, would soon be considered for similar benefits.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The federal government of Nigeria has called on retailers to reduce food prices, adding that failing to reflect the recent price drop is unfair to consumers.

The Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Abubakar Kyari, made this appeal on Tuesday during the 2025 Wheat Farmers Green Field Day at Dabi village in Jigawa State’s Ringim Local Government Area.

Kyari criticized retailers for not adjusting their prices despite the decline in costs, labeling their actions as unpatriotic.

“The federal government is aware of the significant drop in the prices of food items across major markets, particularly for essential commodities such as flour, sugar, rice, and pasta.

“However, it is deeply concerning that many retailers, bakers, and shop owners have refused to reflect this reduction in their selling prices, thereby denying Nigerians the relief they deserve.

“In previous months, stakeholders in the retail value chain raised concerns about the rising cost of food items. Now that the prices have dropped, such as flour, which fell from N81,000 per bag to below N60,000, and spaghetti, which has fallen from N20,000 to N15,000.

“It is only fair and just to let consumers benefit from food price reduction,” Kyari said.

Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicates that Nigeria’s headline inflation rate fell to 24.48% in January 2025, with food inflation declining to 26.08%, down from 34.8% and 39.84% in the previous month.

The decline is attributed to a rebasing of the country’s consumer price index.

However, the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise clarified that the lower inflation rate does not necessarily mean a reduction in the overall prices of goods and services.