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By Uzair Adam

The federal government has announced plans to integrate 28,000 health workers into Nigeria’s healthcare system after their salaries were blocked by a policy under U.S. President Donald Trump.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, disclosed this during an interview on Channels Television, noting Nigeria’s commitment to reducing reliance on foreign aid.

Pate acknowledged the significant support of the U.S. government in Nigeria’s health sector, particularly in combating HIV, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.

However, he stressed that Nigeria aims to take full ownership of its healthcare system. “There are health workers, 28,000 of them, who have been paid through U.S. government support.

While we appreciate this, these workers are Nigerians, and we must transition them into our system,” he said.

Trump had issued an executive order that paused funding for HIV treatment in developing countries, affecting the operations of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Despite the funding suspension, the U.S. government later approved a waiver allowing continued treatment for people living with HIV.

Meanwhile, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently allocated N4.5 billion for HIV treatment packs to support affected Nigerians.

By Uzair Adam 

The Zamfara State government has banned all political gatherings and rallies across the state, citing the need to maintain peace and stability.  

The restriction, which immediately applies to all political parties, was announced following a political clash in Maru Local Government Area.  

Speaking with BBC Hausa, Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Broadcast, Media, and Public Affairs, said the decision was taken to prevent further unrest after a recent incident in Maru that resulted in casualties and property damage.  

He clarified that the ban is temporary, not intended to suppress political activities but to ensure public safety. Security agencies have been instructed to enforce the directive.  

However, the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected the move, arguing that it infringes on their rights. 

The party’s spokesperson, Malam Yusuf Idris Gusau, described the decision as politically motivated, claiming it was triggered by a recent APC gathering that unsettled the state government.  

“There is no law that permits the banning of political gatherings. Our party is registered at the national level, and our members are law-abiding citizens who will not engage in actions that threaten peace,” Gusau stated.  

The ban has sparked debate, with concerns over its implications for political engagement in the state.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called on the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) to prioritize the establishment of a Combined Maritime Task Force to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea.

He made the call at the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa.

He also offered Lagos as the potential host city for the task force’s headquarters.

In his address, delivered by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, President Tinubu reiterated the urgent need for such a task force to safeguard the region.

This comes as Nigeria signed an agreement with the AU to provide Strategic Sea Lift Services for peace support operations, humanitarian efforts, and personnel movement.

Under this agreement, Nigeria’s Navy will offer a vessel for the operations on a cost-recovery basis.

Key figures such as Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Badaru Abubakar, and Naval Chief, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, were present at the signing ceremony, alongside AU officials, including Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security.

President Tinubu also praised the AUPSC’s decision to upgrade the Nigerian National Counter-Terrorism Centre to a Regional Counter-Terrorism Centre and to renew the mandate of the Multinational Joint Task Force addressing terrorism in the Lake Chad region.

Additionally, President Tinubu expressed concern over the escalating instability in Libya, linking it to the worsening security situation in the Sahel, and urged the Assembly to support efforts aimed at restoring order in Libya.

He also highlighted security challenges in countries undergoing democratic transitions, including Sudan, Mali, and Niger.

The Nigerian leader showed strong support for the establishment of an African-led credit rating agency (ACRA), which would provide fairer and more transparent assessments of African economies.

He further backed the Africa Financing Stability Mechanism (AFSM) to support member states in addressing financial vulnerabilities and fostering economic resilience.

This initiative, designed to provide financial stability and support long-term development goals, has gained significant traction in recent AU discussions.

President Tinubu concluded by commending the progress made on the African Standby Force and urged the AU to adopt the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for its operationalization.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Residents of Tudun Tagarji in Kano State were left in shock on Saturday after a newborn baby was discovered abandoned inside a carton near a drainage in the Kaura area.

The discovery was confirmed in a statement released on Sunday by the Commander of the Operation Zaman Lafiya vigilante group, Rabiu Sulaiman.

Sulaiman explained that his team encountered the tragic scene while on routine patrol in the early hours of the morning.

“Yesterday, around 2 a.m., while we were on patrol, we came across a shocking incident inside a pit very close to us. Upon close observation, we noticed a disposed carton, but we had no idea what was inside it.

“To clear our doubt and be sure nothing harmful was kept there, I instructed my boys to open the carton, and behold, upon opening it, we saw a baby already dead,” he recounted.

Following the discovery, the vigilante team immediately informed local community leaders before reporting the matter to the police.

“By morning, we invited the ward head to come and see for himself, along with other members of the community, before conveying the baby to the police station and informing them,” Sulaiman added.

The authorities directed them to a hospital, where doctors confirmed the baby was already deceased.

“We came back home and organised burial rites for the baby in accordance with Islamic teachings,” he stated.

Sulaiman urged community vigilante groups to remain vigilant and stated the importance of parental guidance, particularly in preventing situations that could lead to unwanted pregnancies.

“Unwanted pregnancy contradicts Islamic teachings. Parents must monitor their children’s movements and guide them properly,” he advised.

The incident has sparked deep sorrow within the community, with calls for increased awareness and preventive measures to avoid similar tragedies in the future.

By Lukman Dahiru 

Ahmad Uthman Muhammad is a beacon of hope and environmental stewardship in Nigeria. He is particularly noted for his tireless efforts in combating climate change. As the founder of the Purelife Foundation, he has spearheaded numerous tree-planting initiatives that have significantly contributed to reforestation and environmental conservation efforts across the region. His dedication to this cause has not only earned him respect but also the prestigious traditional title of ‘Inuwar Kasar Hausa’ in Daura, Katsina State, a recognition of his commitment to the land and its people.

From a young age, Ahmad has exhibited a rare blend of passion, vision, and action, equipping him excellently for any role in politics. In addition to his environmental efforts, his philanthropy has impacted numerous lives, highlighting his commitment to social welfare. His work with the Purelife Foundation has demonstrated his ability to mobilise communities for a greater cause, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds to strive towards the common objective of a greener, more sustainable future. 

Ahmad’s venture into politics would mean introducing fresh, dynamic leadership to Adamawa’s political sphere. His understanding of environmental issues is not merely academic but practical, having implemented successful projects that could be scaled up for broader impact. His approach to politics would likely focus on sustainable development, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of the environment. 

Imagine the potential benefits if Ahmad Uthman Muhammad became a federal legislator: his advocacy for policies promoting ecological balance, initiatives for green jobs, and legislation supporting renewable energy projects could have a profound impact nationwide. Moreover, his philanthropy extends his influence into areas like education, health, and social services, where his charitable initiatives could inspire policy changes that address poverty and support the underprivileged. 

Ahmad’s youthful dynamism would likely bring fresh perspectives to education, health, and infrastructure, fostering policies encouraging youth empowerment and innovation. His understanding of community needs, evidenced by his work with the Purelife Foundation, suggests he could push for legislation that enhances social services, supports local economies, and ensures more equitable resource distribution across the country. 

Ahmad’s connection with the community, evidenced by his traditional title, suggests a deep understanding of local culture and needs. This understanding would ensure that his representation would be effective and empathetic. His bid for the House of Representatives is not about personal ambition but about extending his environmental advocacy and philanthropy into the legislative arena, where they can have a wider impact. 

In conclusion, Ahmad Uthman Muhammad embodies a new wave of leadership—one that prioritises the health of the planet alongside the prosperity of its people. His background, achievements, and vision position him as a promising candidate who could effect significant positive change. His philanthropy emphasises his commitment to not only environmental but also social issues, establishing him as a holistic leader for the future.

Lukman Dahiru wrote from Yola, Nigeria, via ldahyru@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

French President Emmanuel Macron has reportedly convened an “emergency meeting” for European leaders to discuss United States President Donald Trump.

According to Fox News, citing Politico, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski hinted at the planned meeting on Saturday during the Munich Security Conference.

The report states that two European Union officials confirmed to Politico that the meeting is scheduled to take place on Monday.

“I’m very glad that President Macron has called our leaders to Paris,” Sikorski was quoted as saying, adding that the discussions would focus on the implications of Trump’s actions “in a very serious fashion.”

Sikorski has been vocal about US politics in the past.

He previously compared President Joe Biden’s weak debate performance to the decline of ancient Rome.

He also acknowledged Trump’s stance on NATO spending, and agreed that member countries should increase their defense budgets.

The report indicated that Macron has maintained a cordial relationship with Trump since his reelection in November 2024.

The French leader had earlier expressed his willingness to work with Trump, writing on X:“Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump. Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.”

Macron also described it as “an honor” to host Trump in December when the US president visited Paris for the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

His Royal Highness, the Emir of Dass, Alhaji Usman Bilyaminu Othman, alongside New Incentives All Babies Are Equal (NI-ABAE), has launched the All-Babies Livelihood Grant program to enhance routine immunisation rates. The initiative provides ₦5,000 to caregivers who complete their child’s vaccination schedule.

The launch, held at the town’s Primary Health Care Center (PHCC) in Dass, was organised by the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board (BSPHCDB). Esteemed guests included local government officials, WHO representatives, and community leaders.

Umar Faruq Abubakar, Head of Administration of Dass LGA, hailed the program as a crucial advancement in healthcare. Dan Asabe Abdullahi, State Director of Public Health, emphasized its importance amid economic challenges. He noted, “If sustained, this program will help reduce childhood deaths from preventable diseases.”

Under the initiative, caregivers will receive ₦1,000 for each of the six immunisation visits, totaling ₦6,000, plus an additional ₦5,000 upon schedule completion, amounting to ₦11,000, the NI-ABAE Stakeholder Relations Director, Nura Muhammad, highlighted the program’s potential benefits.

The Emir called the grant a timely intervention, addressing transportation barriers that hinder healthcare access. He urged caregivers to prioritise completing immunisation schedules and assured traditional leaders’ support in promoting community health.

In his closing remarks, the Emir expressed gratitude to NI-ABAE and partners for their commitment to improving immunisation efforts in Bauchi State.

By Anwar Usman

The president of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, has urged the Governor of Kano, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to resolve the ongoing land dispute between Bayero University Kano and neighbouring communities.

Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaibu Ahmed made the call on Saturday in Kano during the 39th convocation ceremony of the university.

He called on the governor to take swift action by issuing the university’s title deed to resolve the matter.

He stressed the importance of securing the institution’s land.

Regarding infrastructure, Tinubu acknowledged the lack of perimeter fencing at the university’s new campus. He assured that the Federal Government had allocated funds for the project.

She stated that, “The Federal Government has already provided funding, and work is underway”.

The president reiterated the administration’s commitment to upgrading university infrastructure nationwide.

Tinubu stated that the government was supporting research and infrastructure improvements through the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Public Universities Intervention.

He called on Nigerian universities to include research into teaching and learning to build a knowledge-driven society.

The President further explained that the future of Nigeria depended on quality human capital.

He emphasized the government’s focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for national development.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Bayero University, Kano (BUK) celebrated a significant milestone on February 15, 2025, by conferring honorary Doctorate Degrees on Colonel Sani Bello, former Military Administrator of Kano State, and Alhaji Auwalu Abdullahi Rano, CEO of A. A. Rano Group of Companies, during its 39th Convocation.

The honorary degrees recognised their exceptional contributions to education and socio-economic development in Kano State and Nigeria. 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad Sa’id, praised the honourees and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to human capital development through education.

BUK’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, highlighted the graduation of 3,400 students, including 295 from the Dangote Business School and 275 PhD graduates, with 176 achieving First Class Honours. 

Pro-Chancellor Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna encouraged graduands to uphold the university’s reputation, noting BUK’s recent ranking of 43rd in Africa by the 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, inspiring them to strive for excellence and service to humanity.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Bayero University Kano (BUK) celebrated its 39th Convocation by conferring Emeritus Professorships on Professor Garba Dahuwa Azare, Professor Julius Afolabi Falola, and Professor Musa Borodo for their significant contributions to academia.

The ceremony featured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by Minister of State for Education Professor Suwaiba Ahmad Sa’id. Before her appointment, Sa’id was also a member of the Bayero University, Kano, staff.

Tinubu congratulated the honourees and graduates, emphasised the importance of education in fostering national progress, and assured ongoing support for the education sector to boost global competitiveness.

BUK Vice Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, praised the awardees as influential figures in shaping the nation and celebrated the graduation of 3,400 students, including 176 who achieved First Class Honours.

Pro-Chancellor Dr. Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna encouraged graduates to become ambassadors of the university, noting BUK’s recent ranking of 43rd among African universities. The conferral of Emeritus Professorships reaffirms BUK’s commitment to honouring excellence in education.