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By Garba Sidi

The strategy used to support His Excellency, the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi, made his emergence seem like a golden opportunity, especially for the people of Hadejia. That’s why people from this region, regardless of political affiliation, united in full support behind him.

In fact, it got to the point where anyone who didn’t support him was branded as someone who didn’t care about Hadejia’s interests. Youths and other residents were mobilised in large numbers to vote overwhelmingly for him, resulting in a decisive defeat for his opponent. All this was done with the hope that having “their son” in power would finally bring the kind of development other governors had brought to their own regions.

BUT DID IT BRING GOOD RRSUL?

The general assumption is that if a governor comes from a certain area, that area should naturally receive more projects, opportunities, and attention than others. Unfortunately, in the case of Malam Umar Namadi, this has not been the reality.

Right from the appointment of commissioners, things started to take a different turn. Prominent politicians from Hadejia—those who invested their money, time, and energy into mobilising support—were sidelined. Instead, individuals who contributed nothing to the campaign were brought in and handed key positions. These new appointees now operate as they please, whether their actions are right or wrong.

This understandably caused frustration among the loyal politicians, many of whom withdrew, allowing their protégés to take to social media to criticise the government openly. Their anger is rooted in the fact that they were abandoned, while others who made no sacrifices are now enjoying the fruits of power.

Even in terms of developmental projects, Hadejia has not seen any significant attention that reflects the governor’s origins. For instance, the Specialist Hospital that the former governor and the Current Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, initiated has been abandoned under the current administration, despite the region’s urgent need for it, particularly due to the high incidence of kidney-related diseases. Patients are frequently referred to Federal Medical Centre Nguru, Rasheed Shekoni Specialist Hospital, Dutse and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.

So far, the government has no tangible project it can point to as a benefit for the people of Hadejia, despite their overwhelming support. Ironically, the previous governor—who isn’t even from Hadejia—executed more meaningful projects there. Clearly, “Kwalliya ba ta biya kuɗin Sabulu ba”.

WHO IS CRITICIZING MALAM UMAR NAMADI’S GOVERNMENT?

Some supporters of Governor Malam Umar Danmodi claim there is a grand conspiracy to sabotage his government, supposedly because it originates from Hadejia. They even suggest that people from other regions, aided by unpatriotic elements within Hadejia, are driving the opposition. But that narrative is misleading. And the critics of this government can be broadly categorised into three groups:

THE POLITICIANS.

These are politicians who worked tirelessly and spent their resources to bring this administration to power. After the victory, they were cast aside. Their disappointment and frustration have led them to form alliances and challenge the government.

LOYALISTS OF THE FORMER GOVERNOR.

While not necessarily politicians, these individuals are close to the former governor. They took offense when Malam Umar began probing the previous administration and took actions perceived as targeting their benefactor. In retaliation, they began opposing the current government, criticizing its every move and encouraging others to do the same.

THE COMMON PEOPLE.

These are ordinary citizens who feel betrayed. Despite numerous announcements of new projects and the release of funds, they see little to no work on the ground. They witness government officials living lavishly while their schools lack teachers, hospitals lack doctors and medicines, and basic infrastructure is crumbling. These are the same citizens whose votes made this government possible, and now they are rightfully speaking out. So, is it a crime for the people of Hadejia to fall into any of these groups?

Some people are trying to twist the narrative, making it seem like the government is being attacked simply because it’s from Hadejia. But the reality is this: it’s the government being critized, not the region.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION?

There is still time for reflection and correction. The administration should reach out to the neglected politicians from Hadejia who worked hard for its victory. Offer them a sincere apology and reintegrate them into the fold. Once that happens, their supporters will follow suit, and the political tension will ease.

Likewise, the faction loyal to the former governor and now Minister of Defense, Badaru Abubakar, should be approached with humility. Apologize where necessary, stop discriminating against his allies, and rebuild that bridge. Doing so will reduce hostility from that quarter.

Lastly, address the real issues affecting the people: poor healthcare, teacher shortages, and neglected infrastructure. Let the people see and feel the benefit of the support they gave. Prove to them that they made the right choice.

CONCLUSION

No one fights their own child. The people of Hadejia do not hate Malam Umar Namadi. They are simply disappointed by the neglect and lack of attention he has shown them—despite the overwhelming support they gave him when he needed it most.

Once he wakes up to this reality and takes action—not just words—to correct his course, the people will forgive and support him again.

May Allah guide us to do what is right.

I wrote the Article in Hausa, and I used ChatGPT to translate it into English.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has replaced the country’s service chiefs.The changes, which take immediate effect, were announced in a press release from the State House on Thursday.

The outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has been replaced by General Olufemi Oluyede. Other new appointments include Major-General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshall S.K Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff.However, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P Undiendeye, will retain his position.

President Tinubu expressed his “most profound appreciation” to the outgoing service chiefs for their “patriotic service, and dedicated leadership.”

The President charged the newly appointed officers to justify the confidence reposed in them and to further enhance the “professionalism, vigilance and comradeship” of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

This restructuring is part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the national security architecture amidst ongoing security challenges across the country.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Swiss Federal Council has ruled out introducing a nationwide ban on schoolgirls wearing the hijab in public schools, stating that existing laws sufficiently regulate issues of participation and equality in education.

In a statement issued this week, the Council emphasized that current legal frameworks already ensure that all students, regardless of religion or cultural background, take part fully in lessons, sports, and swimming classes. It added that individual cantons retain authority over education policies, including dress codes in schools.

The decision follows ongoing debates in several European countries over the wearing of religious symbols in public institutions. Swiss authorities reaffirmed their commitment to freedom of religion and expression while maintaining that integration and participation remain key priorities in the education system.

By Abdulrasheed Musa Kofa,

For years, Nigeria has leaned on its diaspora as a hidden anchor of survival. Beyond emotional ties and cultural nostalgia, Nigerians abroad have sent home billions of dollars, cushioning households and helping many weather difficult times. 

Yet the story of remittances has largely been one of consumption, not sustainable growth. Much of the money vanished into daily survival, often through informal routes, while the vast potential of structured diaspora capital for national development remained untapped.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) now seems determined to rewrite that story. In recent months, it has introduced policies aimed not only at boosting inflows but at transforming remittances into a formal, investment-driven engine of stability. 

With tools such as the Non-Resident Nigerian Ordinary and Investment Accounts (NRNOA/NRNIA), the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN), and tighter International Money Transfer Operator (IMTO) guidelines, the apex bank is signaling a bold shift—from remittances as household lifelines to remittances as capital for growth. 

Its ambition of attracting $1 billion in monthly diaspora remittances is more than a target; it is an audacious declaration that Nigeria seeks to become a global hub for diaspora investment.

At the heart of this strategy are the NRNOA and NRNIA. The former provides a regulated, convenient channel for everyday remittances in naira and foreign currencies, cutting out the costly informal networks that once dominated. 

The latter, the NRNIA, goes even further by creating structured pathways for diaspora investments in mortgages, pensions, insurance, and Nigeria’s financial markets. By guaranteeing full repatriation of proceeds under existing rules, the CBN is deliberately courting trust. 

And in a global financial system where trust is the ultimate currency, such assurances matter greatly. The challenge of access has also been tackled. For years, the requirement of physical presence made securing a BVN impossible for many Nigerians abroad. 

The new digital Non-Resident BVN finally removes that barrier, even though it comes at a cost of about $50. While some may balk at the fee, the opportunity far outweighs the price of exclusion. For a diaspora community long fenced out, this is a long-awaited doorway in.

The IMTO reforms reflect similar pragmatism. By restricting services to inbound transfers and ensuring payouts in naira, the CBN is protecting liquidity while keeping inflows within the formal economy. 

Allowing operators to quote exchange rates on a willing seller–willing buyer basis introduces transparency and competitiveness, drawing more Nigerians away from shadowy parallel markets. The exclusion of fintechs from IMTO licensing has sparked debate, but the regulator may be betting on stability over experimentation in a sector that demands strict oversight.

Early signs suggest the measures are bearing fruit. Official reports showed a $553 million inflow in July 2024—the highest on record—representing a 130 percent year-on-year surge. Confidence is shifting gradually towards formal systems. 

Sustained, such inflows could strengthen Nigeria’s fragile foreign exchange reserves, deepen liquidity in capital markets, and lower the high cost of remittances that continues to exceed the global average. Yet the most profound shift is not numerical but philosophical. 

These reforms are about more than chasing dollars; they are about redefining the relationship between Nigeria and its diaspora. Rather than treating remittances as acts of charity or family duty, the CBN is positioning them as instruments of nation-building. 

Nigerians abroad are being asked to see themselves not merely as senders of money, but as strategic investors in the country’s future. The stakes could not be higher. With more than 15 million citizens abroad, Nigeria sits at the heart of Sub-Saharan Africa’s remittance economy. 

In some years, diaspora inflows have even surpassed oil revenues. If only a fraction of this wealth is converted into productive, long-term capital, Nigeria’s financial landscape could be reshaped. But success will depend on more than policy design. 

It will require political stability, investor protection, and unwavering consistency in government signals. The diaspora will not risk hard-earned savings in a system that shifts with every gust of political wind.

CBN’s reforms are bold and timely. But their success now rests on trust and execution. If they work, the narrative of remittances will shift—from consumption to capital, from emergency relief to structural development. 

The target of $1 billion monthly may well be achieved, but more importantly, it represents a shared vision where remittances become investments in Nigeria’s prosperity. The choice before the diaspora is stark: to keep sending money informally and watch it disappear into short-term survival, or to embrace formal channels and help lay the foundations of a stronger, more resilient Nigeria. 

The government has laid down the rails. It is now for Nigerians abroad to decide whether their remittances will remain fleeting lifelines or become the enduring engine of a nation’s growth.

Abdulrasheed Musa Kofa is a PRNigeria Fellow. He can be reached via: musaabdulrasheed83@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Army has achieved a significant breakthrough with the arrest of a notorious terrorist and violent extremist leader, Idris Idris, popularly known as Babawo Badoo.

The operation, which also led to the capture of 37 other criminal suspects, was part of a series of coordinated raids across different parts of the country.

According to a source at the Army Headquarters, the operations also resulted in the rescue of 15 kidnapped victims.

The source added that two terrorists were neutralised during the encounters, while troops recovered assorted weapons, ammunition, and logistics materials from multiple theatres of operation.

Babawo Badoo, believed to be behind several deadly attacks and abductions in the North-Central region, was arrested on October 20 by troops of Operation Enduring Peace at Lugere Village, Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

He was apprehended following credible intelligence that led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a magazine loaded with 10 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a mobile phone, and N12,000 cash.

In another operation, troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace, working with the Nigeria Police and the Civilian Joint Task Force, raided a criminal hideout at Saya Village in Bassa Local Government Area, arresting 19 suspects who are now under investigation.

Meanwhile, troops of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace, have killed two suspected kidnappers and rescued two abducted victims in Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The operation, carried out on Wednesday, covered Kukawa, Shuwaka, Ganjuwa, and Tunga villages after the abduction of two individuals, Muhammadu Sani and Ibrahim Manman, along the Wanka–Dengi road.

Acting on intelligence, troops cordoned off the area and engaged the suspects on the outskirts of Tunga village.

According to a statement by Major Samson Zhakom, Media Information Officer of the JTF Operation Enduring Peace, the criminals opened fire on the troops, who responded with superior firepower, killing two of the suspects while others fled with gunshot wounds.

A search of the hideout led to the recovery of one pump-action gun, a locally fabricated rifle, eight cartridges, and other items used for their operations.

The rescued victims have since been reunited with their families after undergoing standard security checks.

Major Zhakom reaffirmed the Joint Task Force’s commitment to intensifying operations to dismantle criminal networks and safeguard lives and property across the region.

By Kamal Alkasim

As I embark on writing about the history of our community, I am compelled to share the remarkable story of Sheikh Lawan Makama. His life’s work has had a profound impact on thousands of students, including myself, through his tireless dedication to teaching the Qur’an and founding a prestigious Islamic college.

We affectionately called him ‘Baban Makaranta’ (Father of the School) because of his unwavering presence and guidance. He would often be seen at the school, writing on the Allo (wooden slate) for students, mentoring teachers, and caring for us like a father.

When I spoke to one of my teachers and his son, Shehu Lawan Makama, about his father’s legacy, he shared a profound insight: ‘In our family tradition, every child is expected to teach in school before pursuing any business venture.’ This legacy lives on through the Ma’ahad Sheikh Lawan Makama, a renowned college for Qur’anic studies in our community, Kofar-Ruwa.

The college offers a comprehensive curriculum, with morning and afternoon sessions focused on Qur’anic studies, followed by evening classes on Hadith and Islamic theology. The quality of education in our community is a testament to the excellence of his school. Sheikh Lawan Makama’s impact extends beyond the classroom, as his commitment to community service has left an indelible mark on our society.

Sheikh Lawan Makama’s contributions to community services were multifaceted. His children would often lead Islamic events, including Ramadan prayers in various mosques. As students, we would attend school during the day and participate in community services in the evenings.

Growing up in a family that values the Qur’an, I had the privilege of attending many of these events. Sheikh Lawan Makama instilled in us strong moral values and good habits, emphasizing the importance of integrity and character. His reputation was such that if someone from his school misbehaved, the community would say, “This isn’t the habit of Sheikh Lawan Makama’s students.” His legacy is built on the principles of good character, and those who know him can attest to this.

Sheikh Lawan Makama’s family reflects his commitment to the Qur’an. All 16 of his children are Qur’an reciters, and thousands of students have memorized the Qur’an through his school. The students who lived in his house were treated like family members, receiving food, clothing, and care. One of my classmates shared that they felt no difference between themselves and Sheikh Lawan Makama’s biological children.

As someone who values documenting history, I aim to preserve Sheikh Lawan Makama’s legacy accurately, ensuring that future generations can learn from his remarkable life and contributions. May God bless him with knowledge, wisdom, and eternal peace.

Kamal Alkasim wrote from Kano, via kamalalkasim17@gmail.com.

By Anas Abbas

The House of Representatives Committee on Banking Regulations has held a public hearing on two significant financial reform bills that are meant to strengthen Nigeria’s banking sector and improve access to finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The bills are the Factoring Regulation Bill (HB. 516) which seeks to enable small businesses to access quick and reliable cash by selling their unpaid invoices and the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) Amendment Bill (HB. 1168), sponsored by Hon. Moses Oluwatoyin Fayinka, representing Mushin II Federal Constituency of Lagos State.

The latter aims to protect bank customers from fraudulent withdrawals and enforce greater accountability within the banking system.

The public hearing, described as “very productive” by the Chairman of the Committee and Member representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency, Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, drew wide participation from key financial and business institutions including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), NEXIM Bank, Afreximbank, NACCIMA, NASSI, and several development partners and private sector stakeholders.

Hon. El-Rufai also acknowledged the presence of Mr. Fabian Okoye, Special Adviser on Research, Documentation, and Communication to Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who represented the Governor at the event.

Reflecting on his earlier legislative experience, El-Rufai recalled observing the Factoring Bill during his tenure as Senior Legislative Aide and Chief of Staff to Governor Uba Sani, when the latter chaired the Senate Committee on Banking and Other Financial Institutions in the 9th Senate.

According to him, despite the Central Bank’s progress in managing what he called its “policy trilemma” the exchange rate, inflation, and interest rate Nigeria’s economic realities underscore the urgency of passing the bills.

He noted that inflation as of September 2025 stands at 18.02%, interest rate (MPR) at 27%, unemployment at 4.3%, and poverty at 46% affecting over 139 million people.

A bag of rice now costs ₦70,000. These figures, he said, show why reforms like the Factoring Bill cannot wait.Bello explained that factoring would provide a much-needed financial lifeline for everyday Nigerians.

For traders, artisans, and shop owners, factoring means faster access to cash to restock and stay in business. For small manufacturers and exporters, it improves cash flow to expand production and create jobs.

He emphasized that the BOFIA Amendment Bill complements these efforts by ensuring stronger consumer protection and holding banks accountable for fraud and misconduct.

Across Africa, factoring has been recognized as a powerful tool to unlock working capital and sustain small businesses.

Experts estimate that if properly implemented in Nigeria, it could release over ₦2.7 trillion into the economy, directly boosting communities and livelihoods.

Reaffirming the committee’s commitment to financial reforms that protect consumers and empower SMEs, El-Rufai expressed gratitude to all participants and lauded the support of the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, GCON, for his leadership.

He concluded that the House Committee on Banking Regulations remains steadfast in its mission to drive reforms that protect consumers, empower SMEs, and grow the economy for everyone.

By Uzair Adam

Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has stated that his party is open to forming alliances with other political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, the former Kano State governor emphasised that the NNPP is willing to collaborate with any party that shares its commitment to improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

Kwankwaso clarified that any potential alliance with the APC or other parties must come with clear, tangible benefits for the NNPP, highlighting the party’s nationwide structures and gubernatorial candidates in all states.

He said, “If you are asking us to join APC, you must tell us what NNPP will gain. We have gubernatorial candidates in all the states and full structures nationwide. What will you offer them if we join?”

The senator reiterated that alliances will be based on shared ideals that guarantee a better quality of life for Nigerians.

He described the 2027 elections as likely to be fiercely contested, noting that citizens are now more informed, concerned, and engaged than ever before.

“We’re ready for anyone, whether it is the APC, PDP, ADC, Jonathan, or Peter Obi. If we are satisfied with their competence, we will join forces to achieve success.

“The key thing is that whoever we ally with must be committed to the needs of Nigerians,” Kwankwaso said.

He also condemned the state of insecurity in parts of the country, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Kaduna, noting that ordinary citizens are the main victims while political elites live in luxury in Abuja.

On the recent proposal by the National Assembly to amend the 2022 Electoral Act, which would schedule presidential and governorship elections six months before the expiration of incumbents’ tenures, Kwankwaso said he is ready for elections to be held at any time, provided there is adequate notice for mobilisation.

Addressing claims of undue influence over the Kano State government, Kwankwaso dismissed the allegations as baseless, insisting that the current administration is acting independently and that time will reveal who is truly in charge.

“Our position is simple: if he seeks our counsel, we will gladly offer it. But if we notice anything wrong or harmful, we will call his attention to it. “That is why people claim they will defeat us, but the truth is, the youths are more aware now,” he clarified.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has announced the approval of thirteen new degree programmes for universities across Nigeria.

The move is part of an ongoing effort to modernize the country’s higher education curriculum and align it with global trends.

In an official memo signed by the Executive Secretary, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu, the Commission directed all Vice-Chancellors to circulate the newly approved Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) documents.

The new programmes reflect a focus on emerging technologies, security, and specialized fields.

The list includes cutting-edge courses such as B.Sc. Artificial Intelligence, B.Sc. Intelligence and Security Studies, and B.Eng. Nuclear Engineering. Also approved were programmes in Geomatics Engineering, Telecommunications Science, and Water Sanitation and Hygiene.

According to the NUC, the programmes were developed with input from experts within the Nigerian University System in March 2025.

The approval is intended to “strengthen quality assurance mechanisms and enhance academic relevance.”

Universities interested in offering these new degrees must develop their own 30% institutional component to complement the NUC’s 70% core curriculum.

The NUC stated that implementation can begin in the 2025-2028 academic session, pending a successful Resource Assessment Visit to the applying institutions.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigerian forces operating under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have thwarted a series of coordinated terrorist attacks across Borno and Yobe states, neutralizing over 50 fighters in fierce overnight battles.

According to a press release from the military, the assaults occurred between midnight and 4:00 a.m. on Thursday, targeting troops’ positions in Dikwa, Mafa, Gajibo, and Katarko.

The military stated that its troops “stood firm, fought gallantly, and professionally repelled the attacks, dealing the terrorists a heavy decisive and bloody blow.”

The defence was bolstered by air support from the Air Component, which provided precision strikes. Enhanced intelligence and reconnaissance assets also gave ground forces a critical advantage, enabling a lethal response.

The combined ground and air efforts led to the recovery of a significant cache of weapons, including 38 AK-47 rifles, 7 machine guns, 5 RPG tubes, and thousands of rounds of ammunition.

Intelligence reports suggest the terrorists who attacked Dikwa and Gajibo came from neighbouring Cameroon, while those in Katarko emerged from the notorious Timbuktu Triangle enclave.

While the military scored a major victory, it acknowledged some costs. Several soldiers were wounded but are reported to be in stable condition.

Additionally, terrorist attacks involving armed drones and RPGs set vehicles and buildings on fire, with defences in Mafa and Dikwa being “momentarily breached.”

The Military High Command has commended the troops for their gallantry and doggedness, stating that their performance reaffirms the military’s unwavering resolve to defend the nation’s territorial integrity.