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By Uzair Adam

Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Senator Barau I Jibrin, on Saturday, July 26, 2025, declared open the North West Zonal Public Hearing of the Committee in Kano.

The two-day public hearing aims to gather input from citizens and stakeholders across the zone on proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution.

The Daily Reality gathered that this is part of a broader nationwide exercise by the National Assembly to foster inclusive governance and constitutional reform.

Barau explained that the Kano session had been previously postponed out of respect for the late business magnate, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, and former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, both of whom passed away earlier this month.

In his opening remarks, Barau reiterated the importance of citizen engagement in the reform process.

He noted that while Nigeria has undergone five constitutional alteration phases since 1999, several key issues remain unresolved.

“Many of these challenges cannot be addressed by regular legislation alone. We must be honest about our commitment not just to the letter of the Constitution, but to its spirit,” he said.

The Deputy Senate President highlighted that the 10th Senate established the Constitution Review Committee to lead a consultative process that reflects national consensus.

He said the Committee received hundreds of memoranda on major national concerns, including electoral and judicial reform, local government autonomy, gender representation, traditional institutions, and security structure.

“These memoranda have been translated into draft Bills which we are now bringing back to the people for further discussion,” he added.

Barau assured participants that the Committee remains impartial and open to all views, encouraging stakeholders to offer their contributions freely and responsibly.

He stressed the need for intergovernmental cooperation in ensuring that any agreed constitutional changes are properly implemented.

“A law that is not put into effect is as good as not passed,” he remarked.

The Senate Committee chairman also acknowledged the support of Kano State authorities, fellow legislators, civil society organisations, and development partners, describing their involvement as a vital step in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The hearing continues on Sunday, July 27.

Street begging is often wrongly associated with disability. When someone loses a leg, an arm, their sight, or any part of their body, many assume that the next step is to become a street beggar — as though it’s prescribed. This harmful stereotype is one of the reasons PWDs are widely known for begging.

I have personally experienced this bias before. It happened when I got out of a tricycle that had pulled up at Kabuga Underway. I was unfamiliar with the area and trying to find my way to Bayero University, Kano (New Site). I approached a passerby and handed him a scrap of paper on which I had written:

“Assalamu Alaykum. Please, where can I get a tricycle to the BUK New Site?”

The man was around thirty to thirty-three years old. He had a neatly trimmed beard, wore a stylish sky-blue shirt paired with dark jeans, and black shoes.

To my surprise, he refused to collect the paper. Instead, he reached into his pocket and brought out a one-hundred-naira note and offered it to me. I was stunned and disappointed.

I declined the money and insisted that he read the paper. Reluctantly, he took it, read it, and then immediately apologised. He directed me to the place where I could find a tricycle to BUK.

I didn’t hold it against him. I understood. He had likely encountered deaf individuals who were begging with a solicitation note on the streets and had generalised.

But this is precisely why I strongly condemn street begging. Disability should never be an excuse for begging. PWDs should not be reduced to beggars simply because of their condition. We must challenge this narrative.

Instead, society should actively support PWDs. Disabilities can indeed limit one’s ability to perform certain tasks. But that doesn’t mean we are incapable. Those who are uneducated should be empowered with vocational skills to start small businesses. Those who are educated should be given equal opportunities for employment.

The real problem is not disability. It is the lack of support, education, and inclusion. Street begging is not a destiny for PWDs. With the proper support, we can live independently, contribute meaningfully to society, and break this damaging stereotype.

Ibrahim Tukur is a Disability Rights and Inclusion Advocate. He can be reached via email at: inventorngw@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) has taken a firm stand against President Bola Tinubu’s $21 billion foreign loan request, refusing to endorse the deal despite its approval by the Senate.

The outspoken lawmaker, a known advocate for fiscal responsibility, criticized the lack of transparency in the loan agreement, demanding full disclosure of repayment terms and project allocations before any further borrowing.

“How can we approve such a massive loan without clear terms? This is fiscal recklessness,” Ningi declared during a press briefing.

“Nigerians deserve to know exactly how these funds will be used and how we intend to repay them.”

The rejection comes amid rising concerns over Nigeria’s ballooning debt profile, which has surpassed N121 trillion. Analysts warn that unchecked borrowing could plunge the nation deeper into economic instability.

The Presidency has yet to respond, but sources indicate Tinubu may seek alternative approval routes if Senate support wavers.

Opposition figures and civil society groups have rallied behind Ningi’s demand for accountability.

By Uzair Adam

More than 200 women in Kano have received financial support from Zam-Zam Educational Initiative in partnership with the Light Up Orphans Foundation, as part of efforts to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship in the country.

The empowerment programme, which took place on Thursday at the premises of Zam-Zam College in Kano, saw each beneficiary receive N50,000 in cash to support their livelihood and small-scale businesses.

Speaking during the event, Sheikh Muhammad Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, proprietor of Zam-Zam and a prominent Islamic scholar, said the initiative was borne out of a desire to support vulnerable women, especially in the face of growing economic challenges.

He was quoted as saying, “We considered giving N20,000 or N30,000 to enable us to reach more people. But we decided on N50,000 to ensure the beneficiaries can do something tangible with the amount, whether in business or home support.”

Sheikh Daurawa explained that the money was given in cash to avoid technical issues and delays often associated with bank transfers.

“Sometimes, people complain that they didn’t receive their share when it’s sent through banks. We wanted to avoid that entirely,” he added.

He also noted that while the team initially preferred a low-key distribution, the event was made public in the interest of transparency and accountability to their donors.

Also speaking at the event, Malam Aisar Fagge, General Manager of Salsabil TV, a media outlet under Sheikh Daurawa, described the gesture as a righteous act that aligns with Islamic values.

“This is one of the most beloved deeds in the sight of Allah — helping those in need, especially women who are struggling to make ends meet,” he said.

The beneficiaries, many of whom appeared visibly elated, expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the assistance as timely and life-changing.

The Daily Reality learned that the empowerment programme is part of an ongoing commitment by Zam-Zam Educational Initiative and Light Up Orphans Foundation to improve the lives of the less privileged in society, particularly women and orphans.

By Abdulaziz T. Bako

The National Assembly is quietly processing over 80 constitutional amendments that could change the structure of Nigeria permanently. But most of us are not paying attention. This is not about party or tribe, it is about our future.

Just look at what happened in Kano. The State Government organized a public hearing on these bills, but the hall was mostly filled with Kwankwasiyya supporters, not because others were not invited, but because people are sleeping on what may be an existential threat to their region.

Reading through all 86 proposals, I couldn’t find a single clause that deliberately strengthens the North or addresses our developmental realities. The only visible “benefit” is that most of the proposals for the creation of new states and local governments are from Northern states, which is a clear reflection of our power-hungry leaders’ penchant for prioritizing territorial control over actual development. It’s the same mindset behind our endless creation of emirates across the North. Everyone just wants a title, a throne, or a kingdom they can personally rule, while the people remain poor, uneducated, and insecure.

Well, I want you to know that these reforms are not harmless. Many of them target the political, social, and economic foundations of Northern Nigeria. Leme break down a few of the most dangerous ones with what the bill says:

1. 50% VAT Derivation

The FG’s push for 50% VAT derivation is especially dangerous and deceptive. The federal government is now trying to reintroduce 50% VAT derivation formula through the back door after it was fought and rejected in the recently enacted tax reform bill. This move is clearly designed to give Lagos state an undue advantage, allowing them to keep most of the VAT collected, while impoverishing Northern states that rely heavily on federal redistribution. In essence, Lagos and other few states will keep most VAT, and Northern states will lose billions.

5. Resource Control – (HB 1310, HB 1406)

“States to have control over resources in their land… only remit 25% to the Federation Account.”

If this proposal passes, states will control the natural resources in their land and only remit 25% to the Federation Account. This would be catastrophic for Northern Nigeria, as most northern states heavily rely on the redistribution of oil revenue and VAT to fund their budgets, pay salaries, build infrastructure, and provide basic services. But with this reform, oil-producing states like Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Delta would keep 75% of their oil money, while the federal government would be left with less to share. The North, which has fewer natural resources and far lower internally generated revenue, would be left behind economically. This is clearly an economic secession and sabotage disguised as federalism. It will widen the already dangerous gap between North and South, and could plunge many northern states into deeper poverty, unrest, and dependency.

3.. Indigeneship Reform – (HB 2057, HB 1422, HB 70)

“Any person resident for 10 years… or married to an indigene shall be entitled to all rights of indigeneship.”

This means anyone can become an indigene of Kano, Katsina, or Sokoto after 10 years or by marriage. I would leave you to decide what this means for emlloyment opportunities and federal character.

4. Ecclesiastical (Christian) Courts – (HB 79)

“Establish a system of Ecclesiastical Courts equivalent to Sharia Courts for Christians.”

You decide what you make of it.

This is just a sample. These reforms are coming fast and quietly. If we don’t speak up, they will be passed, and we may never recover from the consequences.

Share this, organize, and demand your state organize public hearings. Ask your religious leaders, lawmakers, and traditional rulers where they stand.

Abdulaziz Bako
7/25/2025

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, has been unanimously elected as the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The APC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) confirmed his appointment on Thursday following the resignation of former chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who stepped down to attend to private matters.

Yilwatda, a seasoned academic and technocrat, brings decades of leadership experience in academia, electoral reforms, and public service.

A former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) at INEC, he played a key role in advancing electoral technology and inclusion policies before joining partisan politics.

In 2023, he served as the Plateau State gubernatorial candidate for the APC and later coordinated the Tinubu/Shettima presidential campaign in the state.

As the new APC chairman, Yilwatda is expected to steer the ruling party’s affairs ahead of future elections while balancing his ministerial duties.

His appointment has been widely welcomed by party stakeholders, who describe him as a unifier and reform-driven leader.

The professor holds a PhD in Electronic and Computer Engineering and has consulted for international organizations, including the World Bank and UNICEF.

Analysts say his technocratic background may influence the APC’s policy direction in the coming months.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The United States government has issued a new travel advisory, warning its citizens against visiting 18 Nigerian states due to escalating security and health risks.

The advisory, released Tuesday, cited widespread violent crime, terrorism, abductions, and poor healthcare infrastructure as key concerns.

The U.S. Department of State classified Nigeria among several African countries under its highest risk categories, advising against all non-essential travel to certain regions and urging increased caution nationwide.

Other countries listed include Somalia, Libya, Burkina Faso, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Burundi, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, Niger, and Chad.

In Nigeria, the advisory designates Borno, Yobe, Kogi, and northern Adamawa states as highly dangerous due to terrorism and frequent kidnappings.

It also flagged Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara states for rampant abduction cases.

Meanwhile, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (excluding Port Harcourt) were noted for persistent criminal activity and violent gang operations.

“Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed gangs, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some places in Nigeria have an increased risk. Overall, all locations carry significant security risks,” the U.S. Mission in Nigeria stated.

The advisory emphasized that violent crime—including armed robbery, assault, carjacking, and rape—is widespread, and that travelers could be exposed to kidnapping and hostage-taking, especially along major roads.

This latest warning underscores growing global concern over Nigeria’s internal security challenges and places increased pressure on authorities to address rising insecurity across multiple regions.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Columbia University has announced disciplinary actions against dozens of students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on its campus earlier this year. Measures taken include suspensions, expulsions, and the revocation of degrees, according to a university spokesperson.

The protests, which drew national attention, had sparked controversy over their tone and messaging. The Trump administration, citing concerns of antisemitism, accused the demonstrators of promoting hate speech and paused federal funding to the university in March.

University officials stated that the disciplinary process was based on violations of campus policies, not political content. “We support free expression, but actions that disrupt university operations or threaten community safety are subject to consequences,” the spokesperson said.

Student and civil rights groups have condemned the punishments, calling them excessive and politically motivated. Advocacy organizations continue to demand transparency in the university’s disciplinary procedures.

By Uzair Adam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 25 individuals suspected of internet fraud in a sting operation in Kano.

According to a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday by the commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the arrest took place on Monday opposite Bayero University Kano (BUK) New Site.

Oyewale revealed that the suspects were apprehended following actionable intelligence that linked them to various cybercrime activities.

“All suspects apprehended are confirmed to be undergraduate students of BUK,” he stated.

Items recovered during the operation include several mobile phones, laptops, internet routers, and a Honda Accord vehicle.

He added that the arrest followed weeks of surveillance and monitoring related to suspected involvement in internet fraud, identity theft, and financial scams.

Oyewale further said the suspects will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has launched a comprehensive training initiative aimed at equipping 600 beneficiaries with business planning skills in the livestock sector, under the World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Enhancement Project (L-PRES).

Organized through the State Ministry of Agriculture, the training commenced on Wednesday with a focus on beef and dairy production, targeting mainly youth and women.

The objective is to help participants develop viable and bankable business plans that can attract financial support.

Speaking, Dr. Sunusi Abubakar, the L-PRES National Project Coordinator, described the training as essential in preparing beneficiaries to expand their livestock ventures through structured planning and access to funding.

Dr. Abubakar, who was represented by Madam Heathron Akanni, the Value Chain Consultant for L-PRES, stated that, “This initiative is about helping them navigate the business side of livestock farming—developing investment strategies in beef, dairy, and small ruminants.

“It opens pathways to single-digit loans and even export opportunities through proper branding and value addition,” he added.

He noted that the sessions are being held across the state’s three senatorial zones, using local dialects to enhance understanding.

Also speaking, Dr. Salisu Muhammad Inuwa, the Kano State Coordinator for L-PRES, said the training responds to the widespread practice of livestock rearing in both urban and rural areas.

However, he noted that many people engage in the activity without treating it as a business.

“You will find goats, sheep, or poultry in many homes, but most people don’t track costs or profits. This program bridges that gap,” he explained.

He added that one-third of the participants are women, while a majority are young people, adding that “They have been grouped and will receive tools such as grain processing machines to improve feed production.”

Dr. Bashir Sunusi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, who represented the State Commissioner for Agriculture, praised the program for aligning with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s broader vision to revitalize the agricultural sector and tackle unemployment.

“This initiative supports our wider plans, including the recruitment of over 1,000 youths for rural agricultural support and the construction of 11 dams, one of which holds up to 3.1 billion litres,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Sule Sale, L-PRES Value Chain and Market Linkage Officer, stressed that livestock farming, when treated as a business, can yield significant returns.

Sale stated that, “There are countless opportunities in meat and dairy production. With proper planning, participants can access loans and expand their enterprises.”

The training marks a major step toward improving productivity, resilience, and market access in Kano’s livestock industry under the L-PRES program.