Admin

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.

By Ukasha Sani Idris

Recently, strange “activism “ by former governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasiru El-Rufai on his social media platformshas reaffirmed the rumor that he’s no longer on good terms with his successor, the current governor of Kaduna State.

On X (formerly Twitter), El-Rufai responded to a follower’s claim that he would be arrested if he returned to Nigeria.

Malam responded by saying, “ …Your post below refers. I have been hearing these same rumors of arrest, detention and torture in some dungeon in the NSA’s office (where Emefiele was allegedly tortured to resign as CBN governor), since July 2024 when the so-called report of the Kaduna Assembly began circulating…”

El-Rufai VS His benefactors

This development has sparked renewed interest in El-Rufai’s history of betraying his benefactors. Farooq Kperogi’s August 2023 column highlighted El-Rufai’s “serial betrayals,” noting that he turned against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who brought him into the national spotlight, and later betrayed former President Obasanjo. In it, he mentioned:

“Of course, El-Rufai later betrayed Obasanjo—and everybody else that has propelled his career or extended favors to him.”

“El-Rufai seems congenitally incapable of being loyal to people who feather his aspirations. “

“What’s happening to El-Rufai now actually pales in comparison to the depth of his serial betrayals of his benefactors. It’s a case of live by the sword, die by the sword.”

Who is the biggest casualty?

When Madina Maishanu questioned Bello El-Rufai on BBC Hausa about the current feud between his father and former boss, the worry lines suddenly appeared on his face. Still, he tried to maintain a neutral stance and replied, “It’s not most desirable, but it’s part of life. Couples divorce. Friends fall out…”

When pressed on whether he would mediate a reconciliation between them, he stated that it is not his responsibility to mediate between his father and Governor Uba Sani; his responsibility is Kaduna North.

He also reaffirmed that Uba Sani is still his boss after reemphasising his strong bond with his father.

Where is Dadiyata?

In another response to the same diehard fan, Malam wrote:

“Be careful, Imran @IU_Wakilii……the Kaduna Kidnapping Team (I will reveal this next week, in sha Allah) will either try implementing the Danbilki Commander (abduct, whip and then offer money) or the Bashir Saidu (abduct and imprison) treatment on you. Please keep away from Kaduna and stay safe wherever you are.”

MALAM shouldn’t only reveal the “Kidnapping Team” without telling us when and how it started and the architect behind this torture, perhaps his information would take us back to Dadiyata’s abduction that occurred when he was the sitting governor of the state where Dadiyata was abducted.

Life Lesson:

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

1. El-Rufai’s recent social media outbursts seem to be a reflection of his own bitter experiences. Many are suggesting that he’s facing the consequences of his own actions.
2. If the biological son of MALAM can maintain a neutral stance, at least in our view regarding this matter, why are the sons and daughters of “Nobody” so eagerly rushing to inherit other people’s feud?

I cherish the virtues of honour, respect, and integrity; however, I am in no way justifying betrayal and distrust. I also pray I never find joy in someone’s downfall.

Ukasha Kofarnassarawa wrote via ukasha_sani@yahoo.com.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The U.S. government has announced plans to investigate past foreign aid allocated to Nigeria and other countries, following President Donald Trump’s 90-day suspension of foreign assistance. 

The decision comes amid concerns about global destabilization and whether aid aligns with American interests.

The U.S. Mission to Nigeria confirmed ongoing efforts to track past assistance provided by the U.S. government. 

The Mission also condemned the violence and loss of life caused by Boko Haram, the extremist group designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. Secretary of State in November 2013.

The review aims to ensure transparency and accountability in aid distribution while addressing security challenges in affected regions.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The National Assembly has forwarded the Investments and Securities Bill, 2024, to President Bola Tinubu for approval.

Senator Osita Izunaso, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market, made the announcement during the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) budget defense on Tuesday in Abuja.

He stated that the bill, which had already been signed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, had been sent to the executive for final assent.

According to Izunaso, President Tinubu is expected to sign the bill into law within 30 days.

Izunaso also mentioned that the committee had issued a written directive to the Minister of Finance requesting the inclusion of a N10 billion special fund for investor education in the 2025 budget.

During the meeting, Senator Anthony Yaro (PDP-Gombe) commended the SEC for its efforts in 2024.

He expressed optimism about the agency’s improved performance.

By Maryam Ahmad

The Kaduna State University (KASU) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has declared a total, comprehensive, and indefinite strike starting today.

In a statement signed by Dr. Peter Adamu, chairman of ASUU-KASU, and Dr. Peter M. Waziri, secretary, the union announced that the decision was approved by the National Executive Council (NEC) following a resolution by the branch congress.

The strike is in response to several unresolved issues, including the non-payment of withheld salaries from 2017 to 2022, earned academic allowances dating back to 2016, promotion arrears, and supervision allowances for the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). 

Other grievances include the non-remittance of pension funds from 2009 to 2019, lack of group life assurance for deceased members, and the failure to implement a 25% and 35% wage award.

ASUU-KASU also demands the restoration of university autonomy and has rejected promises from the Kaduna State Government, citing a lack of substance, specific details, and clear timelines for settling outstanding entitlements.

The strike action is expected to disrupt academic activities indefinitely until the demands are met.

By Nura Abdullahi Bagwai Esq.

The recent recognition from the Senate Press Corps has highlighted Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin’s extraordinary legislative achievements, as he leads the 10th National Assembly with an impressive record of 21 private member bills within just 18 months.

This remarkably unprecedented feat has earned him the Highest Development Driven Bills Sponsorship Award, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s advancement through legislative excellence.

Senator Jibrin’s legislative portfolio showcases a comprehensive approach to national development, with bills spanning crucial sectors such as education, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and technological advancement. As the Senator representing Kano North Senatorial District, his crowning achievement came with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s this year’s assent to the North West Development Commission Bill, establishing a vital institution for regional development.

In a significant development, the Commission has been allocated over 500 billion Naira to facilitate rapid transformation across the entire North West region. The breadth of Senator Jibrin’s legislative initiatives reflects his deep understanding of Nigeria’s contemporary challenges. His sponsorship of two bills, the amendment of the Agricultural Research Council Act and the Renewable Energy Bill of 2024 demonstrate his forward-thinking approach to food security and sustainable energy development.

Meanwhile, the Occupational Safety and Health Bill, 2024, underscores his dedication to protecting Nigerian workers’ welfare, whilst the National Identity Management Commission (Repeal & Enactment) Bill, 2024, reveals his grasp of digital infrastructure’s importance in modern governance.

Education stands as the bedrock of Senator Jibrin’s transformative agenda, evident not only through his legislative accomplishments but also through his initiatives.

Demonstrating his profound commitment to nurturing future leaders, the Barau I. Jibrin Foundation recently launched an ambitious scholarship programme, sponsoring 70 promising students from Kano State to study postgraduate courses like Forensic and Robotic Sciences, Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security at renowned international institutions. These scholars received comprehensive support packages, including laptops and essential study materials, embodying his belief in equipping young Nigerians with the tools they need to excel in global academia.

His parliamentary efforts have significantly expanded educational access across Northern Nigeria, notably through the establishment of Federal Polytechnic Kabo and the historic transformation of Federal College of Education, Kano, into Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano.
His dedication to constitutional reform is evident through multiple Constitution Alteration Bills, suggesting a profound understanding of the systemic changes needed to advance Nigeria’s democratic journey. The Government Performance and Accountability Bill, 2024, further demonstrates his commitment to fostering transparency and effective governance.

What distinguishes Senator Jibrin’s approach is not merely the quantity of bills sponsored, but their strategic focus on key developmental challenges. The Development Planning and Project Continuity Bill, 2023, for instance, addresses one of Nigeria’s persistent challenges: the abandonment of projects following governmental changes. Similarly, his attention to cyber security through the Cyber Crimes (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill, 2023, demonstrates foresight in safeguarding Nigeria’s digital future.

As Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin exemplifies that effective leadership in the legislature requires more than holding a position – it demands a proactive approach to addressing national challenges through well-considered legislative actions. His records position him as a pivotal figure in shaping Nigeria’s development agenda, particularly in the northern region.

The impact of Senator Jibrin’s legislative work extends far beyond mere statistics. Each bill represents a carefully considered response to specific national challenges, from environmental protection to economic development, from educational advancement to technological innovation.

As Nigeria continues to navigate complex developmental challenges, leaders like Senator Jibrin demonstrate that dedicated legislative work can serve as a powerful catalyst for national transformation.

Bar. Nura Abdullahi Bagwai is a Legal Practitioner and Politician. He wrote from Kano, Nigeria.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Kano State Government has inaugurated a High-Powered Committee to profile and regulate Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and donor organizations operating within the state. The move aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with the state’s development priorities.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Faruk Ibrahim, emphasized the crucial role of NGOs in sectors such as health, education, and governance. However, he noted growing concerns about unregulated activities, necessitating a structured oversight framework.

The committee has been mandated to profile all NGOs and donor organizations, investigate their funding sources, assess their activities, and recommend a regulatory framework. It has also been granted the authority to suspend or shut down any organization found engaging in suspicious or unauthorized activities. Additionally, it can escalate cases to security agencies for further investigation and prosecution if necessary.

The committee is chaired by Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, with Mallam Tijjani Auwal, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, serving as Vice Chairman. Other members include key government officials, security agencies, civil society representatives, and religious groups.

In his remarks, Waiya assured that the committee would carry out its mandate with diligence and fairness to ensure NGOs operate within legal and ethical boundaries while contributing to Kano’s development agenda.

The committee is expected to work closely with stakeholders to enhance transparency and accountability in the operations of NGOs and donor organizations in the state.

By Fatimat Ibrahim Abedoh 

Students frequently justify their disappointing academic performance by claiming they intended to pursue a different course but ended up in another or that they dislike their current course. Kudirat Oyiza Abdulkareem has disproved this narrative by demonstrating dedication and a strong desire for success.

When Kudirat Oyiza arrived at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), in 2018, she was filled with uncertainty. She had applied for Medicine, but fate had other plans. She was offered Forestry and Wildlife Management, a course she had never even heard of. At that time, the only image that came to her was of lions.

Her mother was the only one who seemed familiar with the course, as her late father had been a forest officer. However, she was too young to remember what he did. Confused and unsure, she considered rewriting JAMB, but her sister advised her to give the course a chance.

Turning Uncertainty into Excellence

The first semester was tough. The weight of studying a course she had not chosen left her unmotivated. Yet, despite her doubts, she ended the semester with the highest GPA in her faculty with 4.72. Instead of celebrating, her sister reminded her that she could do even better. A friend encouraged her to set a higher standard for herself, grading her performance as though she were still in her secondary school, NIOMCO Staff Secondary School, where an “A” started at 80% instead of BUK’s 70%.

With this mindset shift, she achieved a perfect 5.0 GPA in her second semester at the 100 level.

Finding Purpose Beyond Grades

By the 200 level, she had started seeing Forestry and Wildlife Management beyond academics. She became curious about its real-world applications and how to use her knowledge to tackle climate change, food insecurity, and environmental sustainability. This curiosity led her to connect with forestry students worldwide, engage in meaningful discussions, and explore the impact of her field.

Her passion for the environment extended beyond her studies. She traveled across the country, attending various developmental projects and workshops related to her course, visiting six states. She also volunteered with over 10 organisations, mostly remotely, using her skills to address pressing environmental issues.

In addition to her academic work, she co-founded the Forestry and Wildlife Student Association of Nigeria, BUK chapter, where she served as the financial secretary in her final year.

Overcoming Challenges and Staying Resilient

Her journey was not without challenges. Financial struggles loomed over her education, and there were times when different individuals paid her school fees. Even her faculty stepped in to support her. To ease the burden, she applied to teach during school breaks to earn money, an experience she cherished as it aligned with her passion for teaching.

Time Management: A Key to Success

Despite all her engagements and travels, Kudirat Oyiza remained focused on her academics. Her secret? Time management. She was conscious of how she spent her time, balancing her studies, social life, and work commitments.

“I know my brain doesn’t retain half-baked information,” she admits. 

As a slow learner, she needed to review material multiple times to grasp concepts fully. While others might read something once, she would read it three to four times until it stuck. She also knew that her brain wasn’t efficient at night, so she developed a unique scheduled time for mainly reading mornings. 

She always set targets for herself and monitored her time carefully to meet them. During exams, she allocated time based on the number of questions and avoided dwelling on a single one, no matter how confident she was. This strategic approach to time management became her trademark.

A Grand Finale: Graduating at the Top

Fast-forward to 2025, she graduated as the best student in her department, faculty, and the entire university, which speaks volumes about her determination and resilience.

Looking back, she sees her success as a reward for hard work, not just a gift. 

She remains grateful to God, her siblings, friends, mentors, and everyone who supported her through the highs and lows.

But this is just the beginning. She is eager for the next chapter, ready to take on new challenges with the same grit and passion that brought her this far.

She says, “Do the things others aren’t willing to do, and you will get the things others will never have.”

Fatimat Ibrahim Abedoh, a Fellow PRNigeria, writes via abedohzahara@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A 94-year-old man, Pa Adedapo Idowu, has officially registered for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), with the aim of fulfilling his long-standing aspiration of studying Political Science at the University of Ibadan.

Idowu, who registered at the JAMB Professional Test Center in Ibadan, Oyo State, expressed his excitement about the smooth registration process.

He shared that his initial fears about pursuing higher education at his age were dispelled after his seamless registration experience.

He commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for the efficient use of technology, such as integrating his National Identity Number (NIN), which simplified data collection and ensured a user-friendly process.

Idowu also praised the warm reception from JAMB staff, and added that he felt valued despite his age.

The nonagenarian encouraged the Board to maintain this positive trajectory to continue ensuring access to education for all, particularly the elderly, the underprivileged, and those with disabilities.

As the exam approaches, Idowu shared words of wisdom with fellow candidates and urged them to reject malpractice and prioritize professionalism and integrity.

He also reminded Nigerians that age and adversity should never hinder the pursuit of dreams.