News

By Anwar Usman

The Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Kashere, Gombe state Professor Umaru Alhaji Pate, has been elected a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL).

Pate’s election was approved by the College of Fellows during a meeting held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

The Academy also announced other new Fellows both Regular and Overseas as well as Honorary Fellows and recipients of its 2025 Awards of Excellence in Humanistic Practice.

Professor Pate, a scholar in Communication and Media Studies, was recognized for his works in journalism education and university leadership.

NAL, in a statement, said the formal inauguration of Professor Pate and other newly elected Fellows will take place on August 14, 2025, during the Academy’s 27th Convocation at the University of Lagos.

The statement in part reads “The investiture of the new Fellows and the conferment of awards will take place during the Academy’s 27th Convocation”.

Other newly elected Fellows include Professor Ebunoluwa Olufemi Oduwole and Professor Temisanren Ebijuwa in Classical Studies, Philosophy, and Religions; Professor Emeritus Alkasum Abba in Historical Studies; and Professors Gbemisola Aderemi Adeoti, Aderemi Raji-Oyelade, and Victor Chiagozie Ariole in Literary Studies.

In Cultural Studies, Creative Writing, Theatre, Visual and Performing Arts, the Fellows are Professors Mohammed Inuwa Umar-Buratai, Ameh Dennis Akoh, and Charles Emeka Nwadigwe.

In Linguistics, Professors Gideon Sunday Omachonu and Obiajulu Augustine Emejulu were named.

Professor Akinwumi Ogundiran was elected an Overseas Fellow in Historical Studies.

The Academy of Letters further revealed that, the event will mark a moment to reflect on “the profound contributions of these individuals to humanistic scholarship and practice.”

By Muhammad Sulaiman

In a major stride toward social justice and responsible governance, the Kano State Government has cleared ₦22 billion out of the ₦48 billion backlog owed to retired workers and families of deceased civil servants.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the release of the fourth tranche of ₦6 billion, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf described the payments as a milestone in his administration’s commitment to restoring dignity to pensioners and bereaved families.

“This settlement is part of our broader agenda to address long-standing liabilities and reposition Kano State as a model of responsible governance,” the governor said.

Governor Yusuf emphasised that the payments not only bring relief to affected families but also reaffirm his administration’s dedication to restoring trust in government institutions. He assured that the remaining ₦26 billion will be paid in subsequent tranches.

“No pensioner or bereaved family will be left behind,” he declared.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

A coalition of concerned citizens has issued a strong call to the Nigeria Police Force for an urgent investigation into what they describe as “premeditated acts of provocation and incitement” targeting the Kano Emirate.

The group, led by Secretary General Rabiu Matazu, alleges that recent unrest surrounding the annual Durbar celebrations was orchestrated by associates of the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero. According to the statement, supporters of the former Emir had publicly mobilised thugs via social media to gather at his Mandawari residence, which lies directly along the route of Emir Sanusi’s durbar procession.

The release also describes a separate incident involving Aminu Ado Bayero’s convoy, which reportedly passed in front of Gidan Rumfa — the official residence of the Emir — during a condolence visit. Eyewitnesses claim the convoy tore down official banners and damaged parts of the palace wall, while chanting threats against Emir Sanusi.

“This is not [a] mere coincidence,” the statement read. “These are coordinated efforts to provoke confrontation and destabilise the Emirate.”

In stark contrast, the statement commended Emir Sanusi II for what it described as a peaceful and respectful gesture during the Nasarawa Eid durbar, deliberately avoiding the Nasarawa Palace where Bayero is said to be “squatting.”

The group is demanding that the police investigate all aspects of the incidents, including social media incitement, acts of vandalism, and the role of any influential individuals behind the provocations. They emphasise that accountability should not be selective.

“Kano has suffered enough,” the statement concluded. “The people deserve peace, stability, and a police force that enforces the law without fear or favour.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the interception of a container carrying more than 10,000 donkey genitals along the Kaduna–Abuja Highway.

The disclosure was made by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, through the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, during a press conference held at the government warehouse in Karu, Abuja, on Thursday, July 10, 2025.

Maiwada said the interception was part of ongoing efforts by the Customs to combat illegal wildlife trade through the activities of its Special Wildlife Office (SWO), which operates under the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU).

He explained that the unit’s mandate includes intelligence gathering, profiling, investigations, and enforcement against criminal networks involved in trafficking endangered species.

According to CGC Adeniyi, officers of the SWO and CIU carried out the operation on June 5, 2025, at about 9:00 p.m. following actionable intelligence.

He noted that the interception highlights the continuous threat posed by transnational syndicates exploiting Nigeria’s trade routes.

He stated that in line with established procedures, the confiscated wildlife products would be transferred to the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to ensure inter-agency cooperation and environmental protection.

Adeniyi also reviewed the Service’s wildlife enforcement track record over the past year. He mentioned that in December 2024, six African Grey Parrots were confiscated in Kano, while in May 2025, Customs officials at Lagos Airport intercepted various animals including two live pangolins, five Mona monkeys, two Tantalus monkeys, one baby baboon, and another African Grey Parrot.

“In a separate operation, officers arrested a suspect in the Ikom area of Cross River State in connection with 213 parrot heads, six eagle heads, 128 hornbill heads, and other exotic species,” he added.

He further stated, “On 13 January 2025, tortoises were rescued and handed over to the National Park Service in Oyo State. We have also recorded seizures of taxidermy specimens such as life-sized lions, zebra hides, gorilla parts, and pangolin scales.”

Adeniyi also revealed that a container loaded with 119.4 kilograms of pangolin scales was intercepted in Calabar, and in Fufore, Adamawa State, 120 African Grey Parrots were rescued while a suspect was apprehended.

“These figures underscore the scale and sophistication of illegal wildlife trade. It is not just an ecological issue, but one tied to organised crimes, including money laundering, arms smuggling, and illicit currency flows,” he said.

He affirmed the Service’s commitment to curbing wildlife crime through advanced tools, noting that Customs is now investing in digital surveillance, cross-border cooperation, and species identification technologies.

“Our Wildlife Office’s investigations, including digital forensics and phone analysis of suspects, have strengthened our evidence base, with several prosecutions currently underway,” he stated.

Also speaking at the event, the Head of the Customs Wildlife Office, Assistant Comptroller Anuhu Mani, acknowledged the support of local and international conservation groups and neighbouring enforcement agencies.

He specifically appreciated organisations such as Focused Conservation, Wildlife Conservation Society, Wild Power Trust, Green Fingers, and Padrilas for their collaborative efforts.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a significant move to fulfill pre-election commitments and address long-standing welfare concerns, Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the disbursement of over Six Billion Naira (₦6,000,000,000) to retired civil servants.

This marks the governor’s fourth major pension payment initiative since taking office.

The payment, described by the state government as a “restoration of dignity,” targets pensioners who served Kano and Nigeria diligently but faced years of neglect and hardship under previous administrations.

Governor Yusuf stated that the gesture underscores his administration’s commitment to justice and compassion for those who built the state “with their strength and intellect.”

At a ceremony overseeing the disbursement, officials highlighted the critical timing of the support amid Nigeria’s severe cost-of-living crisis.

Many beneficiaries had reportedly endured years without income or stable employment, with some battling illness or struggling to support dependents.

The state government stated that the funds offer “a beacon of new life and a foundation to rebuild dreams.

“Beyond the financial relief, the payment aims to formally recognize the retirees’ contributions and restore their sense of value after retiring “with integrity.”

Governor Yusuf’s administration framed the ₦6bn payout as evidence of prioritizing worker welfare, contrasting it with the perceived inaction of past governments.

“What others couldn’t achieve in eight years, we have accomplished in just two,” a government statement noted, positioning the fourth installment as proof that Governor Yusuf’s government “has not forgotten its contributors.”

The administration reaffirmed its pledge to continue supporting retirees and upholding social contracts with the people of Kano State.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the appointment of Dr. Suleiman Wali Sani as the new Chief of Staff, Government House, Kano.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Dr. Sani, a seasoned medical doctor, policy expert, and retired Permanent Secretary, brings over 40 years of public service experience to his new role.

Prior to this appointment, he served as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Civil Service Matters.

A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with MBBS degrees, he also holds a diploma from Bayero University, Kano, and the prestigious mni certificate from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Sani held top-level administrative positions, including Director General in the Ministries of Health and Commerce, Executive Secretary, and Permanent Secretary in various government institutions.

He also served as Chief Medical Director at both the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital and the Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital.

He has played a significant role in shaping health policies, civil service reforms, and social development in the state and beyond.

He has participated in over 40 state and national committees and has represented Nigeria in international medical and administrative engagements.

In a related development, Governor Yusuf has also approved the appointment of retired Major General Mohammed Sani as the new Director General of Special Services at the Government House.

A highly decorated infantry officer, Maj. Gen. Sani served in the Nigerian Army for over 35 years, holding several key command and staff positions.

He played critical roles in peacekeeping, conflict resolution, and national security operations before retiring.

The statement further noted that the decision to reinstate the Office of the Chief of Staff—scrapped in December 2024—is part of the governor’s broader effort to strengthen governance and improve service delivery in the state.

Both Dr. Sani and Maj. Gen. Sani are expected to assume duties immediately.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigerian military forces operating in the restive northeast have killed at least 24 Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents during a series of intense offensives conducted between July 4th and 9th, the Army announced Wednesday.

Troops from Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), supported by air power and local forces including the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and hunters, executed multiple successful ambushes, patrols, and clearance operations across Borno and Adamawa states.

According to a statement by Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations for the Theatre Command, the operations targeted terrorist movements, logistics networks, and hideouts.

Key engagements included:

1.Ambush at Platari (July 4): Troops killed 3 insurgents on bicycles moving from Sambisa Forest towards the Timbuktu Triangle.

2.Ambush near Komala (July 4):One terrorist was neutralized; troops recovered motorcycles, sprayers, pesticides, and food.

3.Night Ambush near Kawuri (July 4): 2 terrorists transporting logistics were killed; salt, seasoning, and detergents seized.

4.IDP Camp Interception, Madarari (July 5): Troops prevented terrorists from accessing a camp, killing one and recovering ammunition.

5.Fighting Patrol at Leno Kura (July 5): 3 insurgents killed during an assault on their enclave.

6.Night Ambush near Ngoshe/Gava (July 6): One terrorist neutralized at a suspected crossing point.

7.Ambush near Sabsawa (July 7): 2 logistics suppliers killed; bicycles, slippers, torchlights, and other items recovered.

8.Clearance Operation at Bula Marwa (July 8): One insurgent killed, gun and uniforms recovered, camp destroyed (air support involved).

9.Joint Patrol at Pambula, Adamawa (July 8): One terrorist killed; four motorcycles and a weapon captured.

10.Tangalanga & Bula Marwa Clearance (July 9): 3 insurgents killed; camp destroyed; six AK-47 rifles, 47 magazines, and 90 rounds of ammunition recovered (air support involved).

11.Ambush at Ngailda, Manjim, Wulle (July 9): 6 terrorists killed; motorcycles and bicycles seized.

Captain Kovangiya emphasized the significance of air support and collaboration with local forces like the CJTF and hunters in the success of the operations.

He stated the offensive demonstrates the troops’ determination to cripple the insurgents and restore security for socio-economic activities in the region.

Exploitation of the areas after clashes led to the recovery of significant weapons, ammunition, logistics supplies, and the destruction of terrorist camps and life-supporting structures.

By Uzair Adam Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a notorious militia leader, Haruna Abdulhamid, during a covert operation in Gidan Waya, Nasarawa State.

According to a reliable source, the operation was carried out by personnel of Sector II, Operation Whirl Stroke, deployed to Nasarawa Eggon.

The arrest followed actionable intelligence that led troops to the suspect, who was reportedly on his way to collect cash from a criminal deal.

Abdulhamid had long been on the radar of security agencies for his involvement in multiple criminal acts, including attacks on communities, kidnapping, and illegal arms trade.

He is currently in custody undergoing further interrogation.Elsewhere in the North East, troops working with local hunters and Hybrid Forces engaged terrorists during a patrol in Pambula Village, Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

One terrorist was neutralised, and troops recovered a weapon along with four abandoned motorcycles.

Troops deployed in Bama, Borno State, also engaged insurgents in a gunfight, neutralised one, recovered weapons, and destroyed makeshift terrorist camps and shelters.

During the operation, three family members of the ISWAP/JAS faction—an adult woman and two children—surrendered.

Additionally, an unexploded 40mm mortar bomb was discovered during a patrol along the Damboa–Azir road in Borno.

The area was immediately secured, and the bomb was safely recovered by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.

In the North West, troops in Kebbi State conducted an ambush at River Kaa, rescuing six kidnapped victims and recovering four rustled cattle after a clash with terrorists.

Meanwhile, in the South East, soldiers arrested a suspected member of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) at a checkpoint in Ehime Mbano, Imo State.

The suspect is believed to have links with previous attacks on security personnel and government facilities.

In the South-South region, troops from 34 Artillery Brigade and 197 Special Forces Battalion uncovered an illegal refining site in Delta State.

The site contained 60 cooking drums, 15,000 litres of stolen crude oil, and reservoirs of illegally refined products, which were dismantled in line with Operation Delta Safe guidelines.

Similarly, troops from 3 Battalion, working with Tantita Security Services, intercepted boats carrying 1,720 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products along the Jeddo Waterways in Warri South.

The suspects fled on sighting the troops, and the recovered items were secured.

The source reaffirmed the military’s continued commitment to national security through sustained and coordinated operations across all regions.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of Kano State, was formally inaugurated today as the Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

The inauguration ceremony, held in Abuja, was conducted by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN).

Ganduje, who holds the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), was sworn in alongside other members of the newly constituted FAAN Board.

The newly inaugurated board members include:

1.Ms. Olubunmi Kuku (Managing Director, FAAN)

2.Ms. Dorothy Duruaka

3.Ahmed Ibrahim Suleiman

4.Nasiru Muazu

5.Omozojie Okoboh

6.TP Vembe

7.Bridget Gold

Dr. Ganduje’s appointment as Chairman of the FAAN Board was initially announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in January 2025.

Today’s inauguration marks the official commencement of his tenure and that of the entire board, tasked with overseeing the strategic direction and governance of the nation’s airport authority.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a significant move towards inclusive governance, the House of Representatives is proposing the creation of 82 reserved seats in the National Assembly specifically for women and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, announced the proposal on Tuesday during the 2nd Legislative Open Week in Abuja.

The plan allocates 55 reserved seats within the House of Representatives and 27 in the Senate.

Under the proposal, 10% of National Assembly seats would be reserved for women and 5% for PWDs.

Abbas stated that the reserved seats for women would be filled through direct elections on separate ballots.

Seats reserved for PWDs would be filled via nominations from accredited advocacy organisations, also through direct elections.

He framed the reform as essential to correct “decades of gender imbalance,” highlighting the stark underrepresentation of women since independence.

“At independence, women held less than 1% of seats. Today, it has barely moved,” Abbas noted, pointing to countries like Rwanda and Senegal as examples where quotas have significantly boosted women’s representation.

The proposal is among 109 constitutional amendment bills currently under consideration by the House.

Other key areas of reform include elections, judicial processes, and fiscal accountability.

Speaker Abbas also provided an overview of the 10th Assembly’s legislative output, revealing that 2,263 bills have been introduced so far, with 55 already signed into law.

Notable enacted legislation includes the Student Loan Act and the amended Electricity Act.

On public engagement, Abbas reported that the House has received 621 citizen petitions.

Of these, 24 have been resolved, 30 dismissed, and 567 remain under consideration.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who also addressed the Open Week, commended the House’s legislative strides and pledged the Senate’s support for collaborative efforts.

He announced plans for a joint National Assembly Open Week and expressed concern over the high turnover rate of legislators, which he said negatively impacts institutional memory.

Former Speakers Yakubu Dogara and Patricia Ette urged current lawmakers to deepen public engagement and uphold accountability.

Speaker Abbas concluded by assuring that the 10th House remains committed to “inclusive and responsive lawmaking” and strengthening collaboration with the executive branch to deliver results for Nigerians.