News

By Anas Abbas

Farooq Kperogi, a journalism professor at Kennesaw State University in the U.S. and a Nigerian commentator, has publicly apologised to former First Lady Aisha Buhari following backlash from a Facebook post in which he erroneously claimed she had divorced the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

In a statement issued days after the post ignited widespread public outcry, Kperogi acknowledged that his July 16 update, titled “Aisha Buhari, Divorce, and Forgiveness Claim,” represented a significant misjudgment on his part.

Kperogi expressed regret for not foreseeing the distressing impact his words would have on Mrs. Buhari and her family.

“I did not anticipate the profoundly painful consequences that my Facebook update would have on former First Lady Mrs. Aisha Buhari and those closest to her,” Kperogi stated.

He described the incident as one of the most regrettable lapses in judgment he has experienced, leading to “unfathomable personal anguish.”

In his original post, Kperogi claimed that Aisha Buhari had reverted to her maiden name, Halilu, and suggested she had refused to travel to London to care for her husband during his illness.

He asserted that the information was sourced from a reliable individual but acknowledged that making it public was a mistake.

“My source maintains the accuracy of the information but never intended for it to be disclosed publicly. It was wrong of me to share it,” he said.

He also mentioned that Alhaji Sani Zorro, former Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to the First Lady, reached out to contest the claims’ validity.

“I will not dispute the details with Alhaji Sani, who communicated Mrs. Buhari’s position that her marriage remains intact. As the late MKO Abiola famously said, no one can give you a haircut in your absence,” he stated.

Kperogi reiterated that only Mrs. Buhari has the authority to discuss her marital status and that her truth should be respected above all else.

He clarified that he did not intend any malice but recognised that the harm caused by his post far outweighed any potential value it might have held.

“The truth of this information is now far less significant than the hurt my disclosure has caused. I should not have shared it publicly. Period. This action violated every moral and ethical principle I uphold,” he admitted.

He concluded with a sincere apology: “To Mrs. Aisha Buhari, I offer my heartfelt and unreserved apology for the needless and deeply regrettable hurt I have caused. I am truly sorry.”

Kperogi’s post gained traction just three days after President Buhari’s passing, eliciting reactions across various political and social media platforms.

By Muhammad Abubakar

SOKOTO — The Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) has held its first-ever strategic retreat for the institution’s Governing Council and Management staff, aimed at enhancing governance, innovation, and institutional development.

The retreat, which took place from July 13 to 16, 2025, at the Army Officers’ Mess and Suites in Sokoto, was convened on the sidelines of the 30th Governing Council meeting chaired by the Pro-Chancellor, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (Rtd.).

A statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations of the University, Jamilu M. Magaji, noted that the retreat served as a platform for reflection, planning, and strategic alignment between Council members and University Management.

Col. Aminu, in his opening remarks, stressed the importance of synergy between leadership organs of the university in achieving long-term success. Vice Chancellor Prof. Muhammad Zaiyan Umar described the retreat as timely and vital for institutional sustainability and improved service delivery.

The retreat featured four insightful paper presentations. Among them was a security-focused presentation by Mr. Lawal Yusuf Yashi of the Department of State Services (DSS), who called for proactive intelligence and collaboration to address evolving threats in tertiary institutions.

Prof. Yahaya Tanko Baba of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, spoke on the role of governing councils in university governance, while Prof. Maryam Abubakar Koko presented strategies for sustainable revenue generation through innovation and partnerships.

The final paper, delivered by Mal. Ahmad Shehu, Registrar of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, explored strengthening university-community ties through “Town and Gown” partnerships.

Participants concluded the retreat with a renewed commitment to improving institutional performance, fostering innovation, and building collaborative relationships to enhance FUBK’s academic and societal impact.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

Alumni of the University of Maiduguri have voiced strong opposition to reported plans to rename the institution after former President Muhammadu Buhari. In a statement issued by Muazu M. Dikwa, a 2004 LLB graduate, the alumni group described the move as “ill-advised” and one that fails to reflect the university’s unique heritage and regional significance.

The group emphasised that the University of Maiduguri has long stood as a symbol of resilience and academic excellence in Nigeria’s North-East. They argued that changing its name would undermine its historical identity, which is deeply tied to its geographic location and the challenges the region has faced.

The statement also pointed out that former President Buhari has already been honoured with the naming of the Federal University of Transportation in Daura, Katsina State—his hometown. The alumni maintained that this existing tribute is more appropriate and sufficient in recognising Buhari’s contributions.

“We urge the relevant authorities to reconsider any such proposals,” the statement read. “Focus should instead be on strengthening the university’s capacity and supporting its mission in the region.”

The alumni group called on all stakeholders—students, faculty, community members, and especially the people of Borno State—to resist any attempt to alter the name of the institution.

The University of Maiduguri, established in 1975, has played a crucial role in advancing education in Nigeria’s North-East, despite the security challenges it faces.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigeria’s opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has demanded a comprehensive audit of the nation’s state-owned refineries, alleging the “reckless mismanagement” of over $20.8 billion spent on their rehabilitation without results.

The call comes amidst government signals suggesting plans to privatise the facilities.The party, in a statement by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, labelled the proposed sale as “premature, suspicious and potentially criminal.”

This stance follows recent announcements by the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) indicating a move towards full privatisation, coinciding with claims that some refineries have resumed partial operations.

“The ADC is deeply troubled that after spending over $18 billion across successive All Progressives Congress (APC) administrations, and an additional $2.8 billion under the present government, there is still no tangible improvement in refining capacity,” Abdullahi stated.

“Now, the same government wants to quietly sell off these assets. Nigerians deserve to know: what exactly is being sold – scrap or sovereign assets?”

The party questioned the transparency of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, warning the current approach could lead to the undervaluation and sale of critical national assets to “cronies or even to themselves under the guise of reforms.”

Furthermore, the ADC accused both past and present governments of exploiting ‘Turnaround Maintenance (TAM)’ programmes. It described the refineries as “a black hole for public funds,” alleging TAM has served as a cover for corruption and personal enrichment rather than genuine rehabilitation.

The ADC insists a full, independent audit must be conducted and its findings made public before any consideration of selling the refineries.

This demand underscores deepening political tensions over the management of Nigeria’s vital oil assets and the significant public funds invested in them.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State House of Assembly has refuted claims circulating online that it is planning to investigate the Chairperson of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in the state, Hajiya Sa’adatu Yusha’u, describing the reports as baseless and misleading.

This clarification was made in a statement issued by Kamaluddeen Shawai, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Assembly, on Thursday in Kano.

According to the statement, the reports alleged that the assembly had finalized plans to probe the ALGON Chair, who also doubles as the Chairperson of Tudun Wada Local Government Area, over alleged irregularities in land allocation.

Shawai emphasized that the Majority Leader of the House, Lawal Hussain-Dala, had not granted any interview or made any comments to any media outlet regarding such an investigation.

“The receipt of a petition by the Majority Leader from citizens does not translate to an endorsement of any investigation, nor does it constitute a decision or pronouncement by the House,” the statement read.

He condemned what he described as a deliberate misrepresentation of legislative procedures, insisting the report was aimed at damaging the reputation of the Majority Leader and the legislative body.

Shawai further explained that the assembly adheres strictly to constitutional provisions and due process in all its affairs.

He noted that any investigation must follow laid-down procedures, including offering all parties a fair hearing.

He also stressed that the assembly reserves the right to receive and evaluate petitions in line with the principles of transparency and the rule of law.

The House has therefore called on those behind the report, including media outlets, to retract the publication and issue a public apology within seven days or risk legal action.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf says his administration has fulfilled 85 per cent of the promises made to the people since assuming office, with just 15 per cent remaining as he begins the second half of his four-year tenure.

He made the declaration on Thursday in Kano during the swearing-in of his new Chief of Staff, Sulaiman Wali Sani; the Director General of the Special Services Directorate, Major General Sani Muhammad (rtd); and 11 newly appointed Special Advisers.

Speaking at the event, the governor said a recent internal assessment showed significant progress on his campaign agenda.

“I’m happy that last week, when I reviewed our polling points and campaign promises, I saw that we have executed 85% within two years,” Yusuf said. “What remains is 15%, and we still have about two years to complete it.”

He said the matter had been presented before the State Executive Council and assured the public that the remaining promises would be delivered in due time.

While assuring citizens of renewed efforts, Governor Yusuf said new initiatives would soon be introduced to further uplift the lives of Kano residents.

He stated, “We are bringing in new programmes and practices that will, by the grace of Allah SWT, positively impact the lives of the good people of the state. But we cannot do it alone—we must work together.”

He called on the newly sworn-in appointees to maintain transparency and accountability, urging them to offer sincere and constructive advice rather than conceal challenges.

“If there is any problem, don’t start investigating yourself or hiding it. Come straight and tell us what we need to know. That’s why you’re here,” Yusuf said.

The governor also reminded them of the weight of their responsibilities in managing public resources, urging caution and integrity.

“Ensure the judicious use of the limited resources entrusted to you by the people. You cannot afford to misstep,” he said.

Yusuf concluded by expressing confidence in the new officials, saying he was personally familiar with each of them and trusted their capabilities.

The appointments come as part of a broader strategy to reposition the administration for greater results in its second half, with emphasis on consolidating achievements and fulfilling the remaining pledges.

By Anas Abbas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again been recognized for its commitment to excellence in public service and strategic communication.

Assistant Comptroller of Customs (AC) Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer, has been named among Nigeria’s top 50 PR and communications professionals in the prestigious 2025 PR Power List.

This significant recognition was announced on Wednesday by GLG Communications in partnership with the Guardian Newspaper.

The annual PR Power List honors public relations professionals who have significantly shaped narratives and driven impactful change within the communication sector, both in Nigeria and abroad.

AC Abdullahi Maiwada earned a spot in the Changemakers Category, which celebrates professionals who actively challenge conventional practices and introduce innovative communication strategies that yield measurable results.

In response to the honor, AC Maiwada expressed his gratitude, calling the recognition a humbling milestone that reflects the progress achieved in institutional communication within the NCS.

“This recognition is deeply humbling. It speaks to the commitment of the Service to modernize public engagement, enhance transparency, and build trust through effective storytelling and timely dissemination of accurate information,” he stated.

Maiwada emphasized that while he is honored to receive this accolade, the credit belongs to his dedicated team and the visionary leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

“His reforms have empowered us to think differently, act boldly, and represent the Service with dignity and professionalism,” he added.

As the NCS continues to enhance its public engagement strategies, this accolade serves as a testament to its ongoing efforts to foster transparency and trust with the Nigerian public.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has unveiled plans to launch a national job portal by 2026, designed to connect student loan beneficiaries with employment opportunities both within and outside Nigeria.

Speaking at a press briefing, NELFUND Managing Director Akintunde Sawyerr stated that the platform will serve as a bridge between graduates and employers, featuring job listings from both the public and private sectors, as well as international recruiters. “Though we cannot guarantee employment, we aim to ease the job search process for our beneficiaries,” Sawyerr said.

He clarified that student loan repayment will commence only after a beneficiary secures a job and completes their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Repayments will be deducted at a flat rate of 10% from monthly salaries. In the event of unemployment, deductions will be suspended, and in the event of death, the loan will be written off entirely.

In response to recent complaints from students who paid tuition before receiving their loans, NELFUND has directed institutions to refund the affected students or return the funds to the agency. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) are currently investigating defaulting institutions.

NELFUND, which manages over 3.2 million student records, expects an additional one million loan applications by the end of 2025. The agency also announced the rollout of a new vocational loan programme, with a pilot phase launching in Enugu. The initiative will finance training, transport, stipends, and tools — all interest-free.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo declared that the nation’s 1999 Constitution is not inherently flawed but is undermined by its operators.

He delivered the critique at a national summit on Nigeria’s constitutional democracy in Abuja on Wednesday.

Obasanjo’s speech, read by Olawale Okunniyi, Secretary-General of Eminent Patriots, argued that while no constitution is perfect, Nigeria’s can foster good governance and citizen welfare if implemented faithfully.

“The best constitution can be perverted and distorted by the operators, and we have experienced that all over Africa; Nigeria is not exempted,” he stated.

The ex-president stressed that leadership behaviour remains the core issue, warning: “No matter what you do to the Nigerian constitution, if the operators remain unchanged, the welfare of Nigerians will continue to be sacrificed on the altar of selfishness, corruption, and impunity.”

He urged a focus on ensuring operators uphold integrity, honesty, and the rule of law to rescue national progress.

The summit was organised by The Patriots and the Nigeria Political Summit Group.

By Muhammad Abubakar

In a landmark move set to reshape the future of Nigerian club football, Kano Pillars FC has announced a major sponsorship agreement with Radio France Internationale (RFI) Hausa. The partnership positions RFI Hausa as the club’s main sponsor for the upcoming season, marking a significant step in the club’s quest for revival and excellence.

The deal, unveiled by new General Manager and Nigerian football icon Ahmed Musa, includes full kit sponsorship for all Kano Pillars teams — from the senior side to junior categories such as U19, U15, and U13. RFI Hausa’s logo will feature prominently on the team’s jerseys and across all official branding.

Beyond financial support, RFI Hausa will equip the club with modern media tools, offer training for the club’s media department in professional video production, and develop a comprehensive communications strategy. The partnership also extends to media collaborations and the publication of content on RFI Hausa’s platforms.

“This marks a new dawn for Kano Pillars FC,” said Ahmed Musa. “We are committed to transparency, progress, and excellence. Brighter days filled with success and glory lie ahead for Sai Masu Gida.”

Joe Penney, Director of France Médias Monde Nigeria, expressed RFI Hausa’s enthusiasm about the collaboration. “We are proud to partner with such a beloved club. We believe in the team’s vision and will help push the club forward as much as possible.”

As Kano Pillars gears up for the new season, the club’s leadership and fan base hope that this partnership will not only bring success on the pitch but also elevate the club’s media presence and community impact.