News

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ungogo Branch, on Monday flagged off its 2025 Law Week in Kano, joining counterparts across the country in celebrating the legal profession and underscoring the rule of law as fundamental to Nigeria’s democratic future.

The week-long event featured a range of activities — including prayers, a health walk, sporting contests, a cocktail party, dinner, and paper presentations — designed to promote reflection, unity, and professional engagement.

While addressing participants during the ceremony, Chairman of the NBA Ungogo Branch, Barrister Ahmad Abubakar Gwadabe, described the Law Week as more than a routine tradition.

He said it was “a celebration of our identity, a reaffirmation of our professional calling, and a rare opportunity to reflect deeply on the legal and societal questions that shape our democracy.”

According to him, the theme of this year’s event, “The Rule of Law in a Democratic Society,” is not only timely but vital, given the current realities in the country.

“At a period marked by democratic uncertainties, institutional fragility, and a growing call for social justice, we must remind ourselves that the rule of law is not an option — it is the very soul of any genuine democracy,” he said.

Barrister Gwadabe cautioned that when the rule of law is undermined, governance becomes arbitrary, rights are violated, and power goes unchecked.

He stressed that only its firm presence ensures that “societies flourish, institutions gain legitimacy, and the dignity of every citizen is protected.”

He also spoke on the design of the Law Week activities, noting that they were structured to blend professional development with member bonding.

“The week entailed prayers, health walk, sporting competitions, cocktail party, dinner, and paper presentations. These were carefully chosen to balance both professional development and unity among members,” he said.

Highlighting some of the branch’s achievements, Gwadabe mentioned initiatives to decongest prisons, promote bail for bailable offences, defend human rights, and build synergy with the judiciary and legislature.

He further disclosed plans for a forthcoming ‘Law and Order Summit’ — an initiative aimed at facilitating dialogue among community leaders, youth groups, law enforcement, and policymakers to tackle insecurity and youth restiveness in Kano and across the northern region.

Representing the Kano State Government, Secretary to the State Government, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, commended the NBA Ungogo Branch for its efforts. He described the rule of law as a pillar of justice and good governance.

“Democracy without the rule of law is like a body without a soul — lacking purpose, direction, and legitimacy,” he said, adding that it is the ultimate safeguard that ensures no one, regardless of status or position, is above the law.

He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the justice system through recruitment of new state counsels, capacity building, and infrastructure support.

“Justice delayed is not only justice denied, but a threat to the very foundation of democratic order,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Isa Dederi — represented by Director of Civil Education, Usaini Hassan Sulaiman — reiterated the state’s commitment to legal reform and judicial independence.

“We take this principle seriously,” he said, citing efforts such as the construction of a new Kano State High Court Complex, enhancement of anti-corruption systems, and the passage of human rights protection laws.

While acknowledging existing challenges, he assured attendees that the government remains committed to continued reforms and working closely with legal professionals.

The gathering brought together legal experts, government officials, academics, and civil society actors, all of whom echoed the call to safeguard the rule of law as a collective responsibility for peace, justice, and the survival of democracy.

By Anwar Usman

The Federal University Dutse, Jigawa, has raised alarm urging the public to disregard a fake webpage purportedly designed for 2025/2026 admission into the institution.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the acting Director of Public Affairs, Alhaji Abdullahi Yahaya Bello, on Tuesday in Dutse.

Yahaya Bello said that the attention of the management of the university had been drawn to a fake institution’s website address and private mailbag, which was being used to scam unsuspecting admission seekers of their hard-earned money.

He noted that, the admission process at the university has not yet commenced.

“We only advertised our cut-off mark last week, and we are yet to announce a date for Post-UTME Screening.

“The university has an established channel of communication through its verified official website and official social media handles, and prospective applicants should only rely on these sources for information,” he said.

He urged applicants to ignore the fake phone numbers displayed on the fake website, noting that admission into the university is strictly based on merit and established JAMB admission criteria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to honour 17-year-old Nafisa Abdullah Aminu, who recently clinched first place in the English language category at the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals held in London.

Nafisa, a student of Nigerian Tulip International College (NTIC) in Yobe State, emerged the best among more than 20,000 participants from 69 countries, including native English-speaking nations.

Her victory, widely celebrated across educational and social circles, has been described by Pantami as a moment of pride for Nigeria.

“I read from various reliable sources that Nafisa Abdullah Aminu, a 17-year-old student from Yobe State in Nigeria, has indeed been recognised as the top performer in English language skills globally… We are proud of you, Nafisa,” he said.

Pantami emphasised that her success could be traced to her natural ability, dedication, and the support system provided by her parents and teachers.

He added that this global recognition should attract the same kind of reward that was recently extended to Nigeria’s victorious female athletes.

“Recently, our women’s football team won the Women’s Africa Cup in Morocco. Each player received $100,000, a three-bedroom flat, and a national honour of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

In addition, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, received similar rewards after winning the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship,” Pantami noted.

He went further to advocate equal recognition for Nafisa’s teacher, similar to what the technical teams of the Super Falcons and D’Tigress received.

“We must continue to take education very seriously and reward the efforts of our citizens,” he said.

Describing education as the passport to future development, the former minister urged the presidency to invite Nafisa and her English teacher for official recognition.

“Let’s invite our daughter and the daughter of all Nigerians, along with her English teacher, to the presidency. What is good for the goose is good for the gander.”

Pantami signed off the statement with a powerful reminder: “Education is the foundation upon which we build our future and the future of our country.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued fresh conditions for peace within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), demanding the reversal of recent decisions he deems unfair, including the removal of Chief Dan Orbih as the party’s National Vice Chairman (South-South).

Speaking during his monthly television interview, Wike warned that unless these issues are resolved, the PDP should not proceed with its planned national convention in November.

“The South-South zonal congress held in Calabar must be upheld. Dan Orbih remains the National Vice Chairman for South-South. If they don’t agree, that’s their mistake. If they want another crisis, so be it,” Wike declared.

He cautioned against disregarding the outcome of the Calabar congress, labeling it as impunity.

“They say they’re going ahead with the convention. I’m sorry. Let this matter be settled first,” he insisted. Wike further questioned the party’s leadership, asking, “When we held our South-South congress, the Acting National Chairman claimed PDP governors were against it. Where are those governors now?”

The minister’s stance signals renewed tension in the PDP as the party prepares for its upcoming convention.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A 17-year-old Nigerian student, Nafisa Abdullah Aminu from Yobe State, has defeated over 20,000 competitors from 69 countries to win the 2025 TeenEagle Global English Championship in London.

Nafisa, a student of Nigerian Tulip International College (NTIC), Yobe, showcased exceptional language proficiency and communication skills, surpassing even native English speakers in the prestigious contest.

Her family attributed the victory to her hard work, supportive educational environment, and the Yobe State government’s commitment to quality education under Governor Mai Mala Buni.

They called for official recognition of her achievement, stating it proves Nigerian students can excel globally when given the right opportunities.

The win has been celebrated as a milestone for Nigeria’s education sector, bringing pride to Nafisa’s school, community, and the nation.

By Anwar Usman

The West African Examinations Council has announced the official release of the results for the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination for school candidates.

This was revealed in a statement issued through X on Monday, August 4, 2025, the examination body confirmed that candidates who sat for the exam can now access their results online.

“The West African Examinations Council is pleased to inform candidates who sat WASSCE for School Candidates, 2025 that the result has officially been released today, Monday, August 4, 2025,” WAEC stated.

Candidates are advised to visit the Council’s result portal to check their performance.

“To access the result, log on to http://waecdirect.org,” the statement added.

Details later…

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, made history by securing their fifth consecutive FIBA Women’s AfroBasket championship after defeating Mali 78-64 in a thrilling final on Sunday night in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised the team for their exceptional skill, resilience, and teamwork, which led to their seventh continental title.

Despite a slow start in the match, the Coach Rena Wakama-led squad fought back to dominate and claim victory.

In a statement, President Tinubu commended the players for inspiring the nation and upholding Nigeria’s sporting excellence.

“Your superb performance has made Nigeria proud. Like the Super Falcons, you have shown the world the strength and talent of Nigerian women,” he said.

The President also applauded Coach Wakama and the Nigeria Basketball Federation for their dedication, assuring continued support as the team prepares for the FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifiers next year.

Tinubu expressed his eagerness to receive the team and the trophy in Abuja, wishing them a safe return.

The victory cements D’Tigress’ dominance in African basketball and reinforces Nigeria’s reputation as a powerhouse in women’s sports.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has appointed Mr. Ben Solomon Dalhatu Kure as the new Managing Director of the Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC).

He takes over from Mr. Ahmed Maiyaki, who was recently appointed Commissioner for Information.

The governor expressed confidence that Kure would build on Maiyaki’s achievements in transforming KSMC into a strategic platform for effective public communication.

Kure, a seasoned public communication expert and political strategist, brings extensive experience from both the public and private sectors.

He previously served as Chairman of Jaba Local Government (2016–2017), Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (2018–2019), and Special Adviser (Political Matters) to the governor (2019–2021).

Before his public service career, Kure held key roles in banking, including Branch Manager at Oceanic Bank/ECOBANK and Team Leader at Zenith Bank and Broad Bank.

He holds a Master’s in Conflict, Peace, and Strategic Studies and a B.Sc. in Geography and Planning.

He is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC).

Governor Uba Sani congratulated Kure on his appointment and wished him success in his new role.

By Kasim Isa Muhammad‎‎

The Vice-Chancellor Federal University, Kashere, Prof. Umaru A. Pate has donated twenty laptop computers to the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, which was recently upgraded to the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.

‎‎The computers were donated last week during a one-day interactive session for mass communication students from the University of Maiduguri, Borno State University and Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri. ‎‎

The interactive session was organised by the Department of Mass Communication in collaboration with the Northeast Zone of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) and Society of Nigerian Broadcasters (SNB),‎ ‎Prof. Pate handed over the Computers to the Department, through the Vice-Chancellor, University of Maiduguri, Prof. Mohammed Laminu Mele.

He promised to facilitate more supports to the newly established faculty so that it would globally compete by providing more quality journalism and communication knowledge and skills that are needed in the contemporary world. ‎

‎The event was graciously attended by the management of the University of Maiduguri that included the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, Registrar and Bursar.

Professor Mele appreciated Professor Pate for his generosity, experiences and wisdom sharing as well as commitment to support communication professionals and students.

He said the University would provide all the necessary support for the growth of mass communication. ‎‎

The Head of Department of Mass Communication, Dr. Abdulmutallib A. Abubakar who is also the ACSPN’s Northeast Deputy President, appreciated Prof. Pate for empowering Department and students.

He promised to use the knowledge and computers for inculcating 21st skills and knowledge to students. ‎‎

The students also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to not only interact with one of the most respected professors in Nigeria but also to draw insight, wisdom and inspiration from his dispatch.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigeria and the Benin Republic have reached a significant agreement on a joint trade framework aimed at removing cross-border trade barriers, promoting economic growth, and strengthening ties between both nations.

The agreement was sealed during a high-level meeting held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the Ministry of Economy and Finance in Cotonou.

The session brought together top officials, Customs leaders, and trade experts from the two countries, all focused on improving the efficiency of cross-border trade.

Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Jumoke Oduwole, described the new framework as a strategic advancement in West Africa’s quest for regional economic development.

“This agreement signals strong political will from both countries to pursue a progressive and inclusive trade relationship,” she stated.

She recalled the recent meeting between Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Patrice Talon at the West African Economic Summit, where both leaders signed a preliminary Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and directed their technical teams to turn political agreements into real progress.

“Our joint commitment is to dismantle barriers, improve logistics, and ensure that trade becomes a tool for job creation and regional prosperity. The Heads of Customs of both nations have demonstrated commendable synergy, which we are expanding through four thematic working groups covering trade facilitation, enforcement, data sharing, and infrastructure,” she added.

Mrs. Oduwole also noted that Nigeria is positioning itself to transition from a regional trading hub to a global player in shaping equitable trade systems.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, assured that the Nigeria Customs Service is fully prepared to implement the agreement in line with the country’s trade agenda.

“What we have witnessed today is the culmination of intensive technical meetings between Nigeria and Benin Customs officials over the past 48 hours. We’ve developed a joint framework that reflects our Presidents’ shared vision for economic growth,” he said.

He disclosed that both countries are planning to sign a formal Memorandum of Understanding based on the framework by early 2026.

Addressing the role of Customs in improving trade processes, CGC Adeniyi said measures have been outlined to ensure corridor-based trade solutions, which will promote transit and transshipment activities and reduce the bureaucratic delays affecting small and medium businesses.

“We’re committed to removing trade barriers that hinder local businesses. New trade corridors have been identified, and connectivity between our systems has already been activated,” he added.

He also expressed gratitude to the Director-General of Benin Customs, Mrs. Adidjatou Hassan Zanouvi, for her support, particularly for Benin’s endorsement of Nigeria’s leadership role at the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council meeting in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Both delegations later toured the Cotonou Port to review existing operations and identify areas for modernisation. They also visited the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post, demonstrating their commitment to closer coordination and regional integration through joint border management.

This new agreement marks a major milestone in the trade relations between Nigeria and Benin and is expected to promote growth, transparency, and innovation across both economies.