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By Salim Yunusa

Your Excellency,

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your resounding victory in the recent gubernatorial elections and commend your dedication to advancing the interests of Kaduna State and its esteemed residents. As we stand on the precipice of a new era, I am confident that under your leadership, Kaduna’s fortunes will ascend to unprecedented heights, driven by your wisdom and the guidance of Allah (SWT).

In the wake of a challenging period during which our nation has encountered multifaceted trials, the tenacity and unity displayed by the Nigerian populace stand as a testament to our collective spirit. With an unwavering faith in the leadership of our nation and its states, Nigerians continue to anticipate a future marked by prosperity, peace, and sustainable development.

At this critical juncture, I humbly draw your attention to an alternative avenue that possesses remarkable potential to address the pressing issues of unemployment, revenue generation, and economic diversification. It is my belief that a robust focus on tourism and the creative sector could be the catalyst for the transformation that Kaduna desperately needs. While acknowledging the challenges confronting our nation, it is essential to recognize the untapped reservoir of natural and cultural treasures that can propel Nigeria’s progress, with Kaduna serving as a shining example.

Global success stories such as Qatar, Dubai, Egypt, and Seychelles have demonstrated the exceptional economic rewards reaped from strategic investment in tourism. As seen in Dubai, the travel and tourism sector significantly contributed to the UAE’s economy, comprising nearly 10 per cent of total revenue. Similarly, Qatar witnessed a 70.3% growth in tourism sector revenue, with aspirations to amplify its GDP contribution to 12% by 2030.

I come from Kajuru, a small town in Kaduna state, where I am used to seeing people from all over the country and beyond visit the famous Kajuru Castle. I have also lived in Zaria, where I see thousands of people throng the colourful, eye-catching Zazzau Durbar yearly. These are just two out of many. I firmly believe that our state is endowed with a wealth of potential attractions. From the historical magnificence of the Emir’s palace in Zaria to the ancient Nok Art and civilization, the mesmerizing MatsirgaWaterfalls, and the iconic hills of Queen Amina in Turunku, Kaduna boasts a tapestry of wonders waiting to be unveiled.

Moreover, the state’s potential extends beyond its breathtaking natural, cultural, and traditional sites. Kaduna’s vibrant literary, music, and film scenes are carving their place on the global stage. The annual Kaduna Book and Arts Festival (KABAFEST), Hausa International Book and Arts Festival (HIBAF), Kaduna Music Festival, Afan National Festival, and other cultural events foster unity, diversity, and shared experiences among our youth, transcending ethnic divides.

Beyond the cultural and traditional scene is the vibrant film and fashion industry, with the Critics and Kadahood making and producing movies in Kaduna state, employing hundreds in the process. The Kaduna Fashion and Arts Exhibition also showcases the rich history of fashion in Kaduna state and beyond.

Just like football, music is one of the major unifiers in Kaduna and Nigeria at large. I witnessed, with so much pride, how Kaduna youths united during the 2022 Countdown event at Murtala Square. There was no way one could discern who was what tribe or religion; just young people filled with hope and optimism living in the moment. These are avenues where we can build the Kaduna of our dreams, a Kaduna that is healed from the pains of the past, devoid of all tribal and religious agitations.

One amazing thing about these festivals, funfairs, and events is that they always come with the advantage of a booming local economy of small and medium businesses. Vendors make brisk sales of food, wares, and goods. If properly managed by the Kaduna State Enterprise Development Agency (KADEDA), has a huge potential to bring more entrepreneurs to the fore, just like during the Kaduna Market Trade Fair.

Culture, creativity, and traditions aside, Kaduna, with no doubt, is the heartbeat of Northern Nigeria. It is strategically placed and has served as the administrative headquarters of the region. Therefore, Arewa House, the National Museum in Kaduna, and other historic buildings and monuments serve as archives and a lens to our past. We owe it to future generations to preserve these spaces in order to enlighten and educate the young ones.

Yet, for this vision to materialize, peace and security are imperative. The nurturing of these invaluable tourist destinations requires an unwavering commitment to safety and stability, addressing the root causes of insecurity. Furthermore, investing in robust tourism infrastructure, in collaboration with the private sector through Public Private Partnerships, will pave the way for enhanced accessibility and growth. We have seen how the previous administration was able to make Kaduna the number one state in Nigeria when it comes to the ease of doing business. With a proper tourism development plan that comprises all the events, festivals, tourist destinations, and activities, as well as the connecting transportation routes and servicing facilities together, I assure you that investors will come running to Kaduna. This plan will also include community education as a driving force for tourism.

Your Excellency, the potential of the tourism sector cannot be overstated. It carries within it the promise of economic prosperity, cultural preservation, unity, and local job creation. Other advantages include promoting the image of Kaduna state to the world, healthy migration of Nigerians and international visitors, the establishment of exchange programs, a boost in the local economy, the rapid development of rural areas, and the influx of businesses to the state. By supporting the burgeoning creative talents and providing the necessary infrastructure, Kaduna has the opportunity to become a beacon of progress and international acclaim.

Finally, I implore Your Excellency to consider this call for action, not only for the betterment of Kaduna but also as a stepping stone towards the broader advancement of our beloved Nigeria. Together, we can transform the challenges that beset us into stepping stones for growth, development, and a brighter future.

Salim Yunusa writes from Zaria, Nigeria and can be reached at syunusa@gmail.com.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The Portuguese prodigy, João Félix, is on the verge of turning his childhood dream into reality as he prepares to join FC Barcelona on a loan deal from Atlético Madrid. 

The football world is abuzz with excitement as Félix, who touched down in Barcelona today, is poised to put pen to paper on the contract later this evening, with medical examinations already in the pipeline. 

Anticipation is reaching a fever pitch at Camp Nou as fans eagerly anticipate the introduction of this young talent, set to dazzle in the iconic Barcelona colours. 

In an exclusive interview on July 18, Félix candidly shared, “I’ve always wanted to join Barça; it’s been my dream since I was a kid.” 

This remarkable transfer arrangement will temporarily see the 23-year-old forward bid adieu to his former club, Atlético Madrid, to proudly don the Barcelona jersey in the upcoming season. 

With Félix’s extraordinary skills and versatility, he is poised to be a prized addition to Barcelona’s squad, and his presence is expected to infuse renewed vigour into the team’s attacking prowess.  

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared a two-day nationwide warning strike set to take place on September 5th and 6th, with an ultimatum for the Federal Government to address the dire plight of the masses. 

This announcement was made by NLC President Joe Ajaero during a press conference held at the conclusion of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Friday in Abuja. 

Ajaero, while delivering the communiqué jointly signed by Mr. Emmanuel Ugboaja, General Secretary of the Congress, emphasized that these decisions were the result of extensive deliberations within the NEC. 

The NLC has put the government on notice, stating that if no action is taken, a total and indefinite shutdown of the nation may occur within the next 14 to 21 working days. 

The primary objective of this strike action, Ajaero stated, is to compel the government to address the excruciating mass suffering and impoverishment experienced across the country.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Vice President Kashim Shettima has made an unusual request, urging his friends and political allies to abstain from placing paid advertisements in newspapers or utilising paid channels to convey birthday wishes as he approaches his 57th birthday on September 2nd. 

In a press statement personally signed by the Vice President, Shettima justified this unique decision by citing the nation’s commitment to responsible resource management and responsive governance. 

In the statement which he posted on his verified Facebook page, he emphasised the importance of diverting resources towards more meaningful endeavours for societal betterment. 

Shettima stated, “In the spirit of our nation’s commitment to responsible resource management and responsive governance, I kindly request that my friends and political allies refrain from placing paid advertisements or using paid channels to convey birthday greetings on my behalf.” 

Instead of extravagant displays of birthday wishes, the Vice President urged those who wished to celebrate his birthday to contribute to the betterment of society by donating to charity organisations dedicated to the collective pursuit of a more humane and functional world. 

He expressed his belief that such contributions could have a more profound impact on society than paid advertisements. 

This move by Vice President Shettima reflects his dedication to principles of responsible governance and resource management, which he has consistently championed throughout his political career. 

As he celebrates another year of life, he encourages others to join him in prioritising meaningful contributions to society over ostentatious displays of birthday wishes.

By Muhammadu SabiuErling Haaland emerged victorious as he secured the coveted UEFA Player of the Year award.

The award, presented on Thursday, came as a resounding recognition of Haaland’s exceptional performance during the 2022/23 season.

This achievement saw him surpass renowned contenders Kevin de Bruyne and Lionel Messi, making his mark on the European football stage.

The UEFA Player of the Year award stands as a testament to the dedication and prowess exhibited by players in the previous season of European football.

Honoring remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport, this prestigious accolade holds a special place in the hearts of both players and fans alike.

The rigorous selection process involved a panel of esteemed judges, comprised of respected coaches and journalists meticulously chosen by the European Sports Media.

Through careful consideration, this jury methodically identified the standout performers from the 2022/23 season, eventually narrowing down the selection to the top three players.

Erling Haaland’s triumph in claiming the UEFA Player of the Year award is a reflection of his consistent excellence on the field.

His exceptional skill, strategic prowess, and remarkable sportsmanship have not only impressed fans and peers but have also earned him this remarkable distinction.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has given the green light to cover the registration fees for undergraduate students hailing from the state. 

These include students who are pursuing various courses at prestigious institutions such as Federal University, Dutse (FUD), Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Kano State University of Technology (KUST), and the University of Maiduguri. 

With a substantial amount of One Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million Twenty-Four Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifty Naira (N167,024,950.00) allocated for this purpose, the decision reflects the current administration’s commitment to alleviating the financial strain on families with limited income. 

As university registration fees continue to rise, this initiative aims to ensure that education remains accessible and inclusive. 

The Jigawa State Council has gone a step further by approving a revision of the bursary scholarship for local Jigawa State students. 

Effective immediately, the bursary payment will now be disbursed at the onset of each academic session. 

Recall that Kano State governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, recently made a similar gesture in the face of the current economic quagmire by allocating over N700 million to cover the tuition costs of students hailing from Kano and studying at Bayero University Kano.

By Nafisa Ismail Sadiq

In a world brimming with distractions, it’s time for us to turn our gaze inwards and confront the pressing issues that plague our society. As citizens of this great nation, we often find ourselves ensnared by fleeting trends and shallow debates, all while the true problems continue to fester unchecked. It’s high time for a transformative shift, a change that will not only uplift us but also propel us towards a brighter future.

In Nigeria, a land rich in culture and potential, we are facing challenges that demand our immediate attention. Instead of delving into the depths of our problems, we gravitate towards inconsequential matters that only steer us away from progress. Our nation is grappling with issues like poverty, unemployment, and a crumbling education sector. These are the trends that should be at the forefront of our collective consciousness, yet they remain overshadowed by trivial concerns.

Consider the paradox of our society, where wrongdoers are hailed as heroes and those who strive to create a positive impact are left to languish in obscurity. Our universities, once shining beacons of knowledge, are now plagued by neglect and inadequate resources. Educators, who hold the power to shape the minds of the next generation, struggle to make ends meet. The rising cost of living juxtaposed with stagnant salaries has left them in a dire predicament.

Our dependence on imports further weakens our economy and undermines our potential for self-reliance. Instead of leveraging our resources to bolster local industries, we remain fixated on foreign goods that drain our wealth. We must learn from those who have charted their own course to development, adopting strategies that suit our unique circumstances while staying true to our cultural identity.

The power of social media is undeniable, yet we often wield it irresponsibly. We showcase the inconsequential, turning a blind eye to the stark realities that demand our attention. People are suffering, struggling to find their next meal, while the rich amass greater fortunes. The ever-widening wealth gap is a stark reminder of our misplaced priorities.

It’s time to redirect our focus, to channel our collective energy into tackling the issues that truly matter. Poverty, education, employment – these are the trends we should be confronting head-on. By acknowledging and addressing the hardships that many endure, we can foster a society that thrives on compassion and cooperation.

As we stand at this crossroads, let us unite to create a narrative of change and hope. Let us shatter the shackles of complacency and dare to dream of a Nigeria where progress is not just an aspiration, but a reality. The path won’t be easy, but it’s one that promises fulfillment, prosperity, and a legacy of positive transformation.

It’s time to rise above the noise, to champion the causes that truly define us. Together, let’s pave the way for a better tomorrow, one in which our efforts reflect our values and our actions resonate globally. The change begins with us – let’s make it count.

Nafisa Ismail sadiq is a 300-level student in the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University Kano. She can be reached via nafisasadiq005@gmail.com

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

In the aftermath of the recent coup attempt in Gabon, President Alain Bernard Bongo finds himself at the centre of a political storm that has shaken the nation. 

Born in neighbouring Congo-Brazzaville in February 1959, Bongo’s journey from a one-time funk singer to the head of a longstanding political dynasty has been one of both fascination and controversy. 

Stepping into his father’s shoes to continue a family legacy that spanned over 50 years, President Bongo has been a figure of polarising opinion. 

Some see him as a spoilt playboy prince who views ruling the oil-rich country as his birthright. However, others regard him as a reformer who has made efforts to diversify Gabon’s economy. 

He was initially voted into power democratically by the masses, a testament to his perceived commitment to change. 

Despite his tenure, President Bongo’s legitimacy has consistently been under scrutiny from political opponents. Allegations of fraud marred his 2016 election victory, casting a shadow on his presidency.

Calls for his resignation gained traction following a period of ill health in 2018, which culminated in a failed coup attempt. This event highlighted the fragility of his leadership and exposed divisions within the country. 

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the recent coup, questions about President Bongo’s ability to maintain control and foster stability continue to surface. 

The unfolding events have once again ignited debates about his governance style and the true nature of his rule.

With opposition forces emboldened and citizens expressing varying degrees of dissatisfaction, Gabon stands at a crossroads where its future hangs in the balance under the leadership of President Bongo.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The 2023 Batch ‘B’ Stream II Corps members deployed to Katsina State have received advice from retired deputy director of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Fadimatu Muhammad, to refrain from seeking relocation and instead embrace their mandatory one-year service in the assigned state. 

This advice was given during a lecture at the NYSC permanent orientation camp along Mani Road in Katsina. With a total of 1,070 corps members inducted on August 18, the three-week orientation course aims to provide participants with a solid foundation for their upcoming service year. 

Mrs. Muhammad emphasised the significance of unity among Nigerians and explained that continuous requests for relocation could undermine the very purpose of the NYSC scheme. 

During her lecture, Mrs. Muhammad delved into the historical background, mission, and vision of the NYSC, urging corps members to participate actively in the in-camp Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program. 

She stressed that cultivating relevant skills would be essential in a landscape where traditional white-collar jobs are becoming scarcer.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

In the wake of ongoing economic challenges and the recent policy shift to remove petrol subsidies, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has taken a significant step to ease the financial burden on students and their families. 

Announcing the reduction in a Facebook post yesterday, Governor Yusuf wrote: “Earlier today, I had an important meeting with the heads of all state-owned tertiary institutions in Kano State, where I directed that tuition fee at the institutions be slashed by 50% with immediate effect. – AKY”.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf emphasised the importance of affordable education and the need to support the populace during these testing times. 

In a meeting held earlier today, he met with the heads of various state-owned tertiary institutions within Kano State. 

During the meeting, the governor directed that tuition fees be slashed by half, offering much-needed relief to students pursuing higher education. 

The decision comes as the economic challenges faced by citizens have been exacerbated by the removal of petrol subsidies, a move aimed at addressing fiscal concerns. 

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s decision to cut tuition fees reflects a commitment to alleviating financial pressures on families and promoting education accessibility. 

The tuition fee reduction is expected to positively impact thousands of students across Kano State, fostering an environment where higher education remains attainable despite economic constraints.