News

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has confirmed that the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, will lead the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr Durbar in the state.

The government said the decision was approved by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf following intelligence reports suggesting that some individuals might attempt to cause unrest during the Sallah celebrations.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said the government remains committed to preserving Kano’s cultural heritage while prioritising peace and security across the state.

He explained that the Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar) would be conducted by Emir Sanusi from the Kofar Mata Eid Ground through designated routes to Gidan Shettima, ending at Kofar Fatalwa of the emir’s palace.

According to him, Hawan Nasarawa will take place in a modified format without horseback displays, while Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau and Hawan Dorayi have been suspended temporarily in the interest of public safety.

The commissioner added that security agencies had been directed to intensify surveillance and ensure strict compliance with the directives before, during and after the festive period.

He urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding and to cooperate with security agencies, while also warning against the spread of unverified information.

The government further assured the public of its commitment to ensuring a peaceful and hitch-free Sallah celebration and wished Muslims in the state a joyous Eid-el-Fitr.

By Uzair Adam

Twenty-eight Islamic and social organisations in Kano State have received food items and cash support from the state government to assist thousands of residents during the Ramadan period.

The Daily Reality reports that the items were presented to representatives of the organisations during the “Kano First End of Ramadan Support” programme held at the Government House in Kano on Monday.

The initiative, organised by the Kano State Government, is aimed at enabling the groups to support their members and other vulnerable persons observing the Ramadan fast.

Officials said the intervention is expected to reach more than 6,000 beneficiaries across the state, drawn largely from vulnerable groups including women, youth and other less-privileged members of society.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented at the event by the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Sheikh Tijjani Auwal, said the intervention reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting residents, particularly during the holy month.

“The Ramadan period is a time of compassion, charity and reflection. This support is part of our government’s effort to ease the burden on families and ensure that more people benefit during the fasting period,” Auwal said.

He further noted that the state government has established about 160 Ramadan feeding centres across Kano, where around 1,000 people benefit daily from prepared meals to break their fast.

He said the initiative is expected to reach about 1.5 million beneficiaries throughout the Ramadan period.

He urged the beneficiary organisations to continue praying for peace, unity and sustained development in Kano State and the country at large.

Speaking during the programme, the Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Alhaji Abduljabbar Muhammad Umar, said the initiative was designed to strengthen collaboration between the government and religious as well as community-based organisations.

“This support is meant to complement the efforts of religious and social groups that are already working to assist the less privileged in our communities,” he said.

He explained that each beneficiary would receive one bag of rice, one carton of noodles and a cash support of N20,000 during the distribution exercise.

According to him, the programme is being conducted over two days, with about 3,480 beneficiaries receiving support on the first day, while an additional 2,600 people were expected to benefit on the second day, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 6,080.

Umar added that the initiative involves the distribution of over 21,000 bags of rice and more than 21,000 cartons of noodles, alongside cash assistance, as part of efforts to cushion the impact of economic hardship on vulnerable residents.

Some of the organisations that benefited from the intervention include the Kano State Council of Imams, Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah, Jama’atul Nasril Islam, the Kano State Hisbah Board and the Zakkat and Hubsi Commission.

Others are the Council of Qur’anic and Islamiyya Schools, Fityanul Islam First Aid Group, the Nigerian Association of the Blind (Kano chapter), the Association of the Deaf, as well as groups representing widows, divorcees and orphans.

The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, thanked the state government for the gesture.

“This intervention has come at the right time. It will go a long way in supporting many families during the Ramadan fast,” Daurawa said.

Meanwhile, the distribution exercise continued on Tuesday with additional community groups receiving the support under the programme.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by his Political Adviser, Alhaji Hamza Buhari, commended the Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning for initiating the intervention aimed at supporting vulnerable residents and community organisations.

He said the programme would help ease economic hardship for many families and strengthen solidarity among residents during the Ramadan period.

Officials said the intervention involved the distribution of food items and cash support valued at over N42 million.

Among the groups that benefited on the second day were APC Media Forum, APC Marshals, APC Youth and Women groups, Kano First Movement, Abba Door-to-Door supporters and the Kannywood association.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Fire Service says a fire outbreak caused by an electric spark destroyed parts of three residential buildings and an electrical transformer site in Gaida area near Fatima Bread in Kumbotso Local Government Area.

The agency’s Public Relations Officer, Saminu Yusif Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, noting that the fire service received a distress call at about 11:05 a.m. on Tuesday from a resident, Aminu Bello, reporting the incident.

Abdullahi said firefighters from the agency’s headquarters, as well as Sharada and Rijiyar Zaki fire stations, were immediately deployed to the scene to contain the blaze.

According to him, when the firefighters arrived, they discovered that an open space measuring about 50 by 50 feet, which serves as an electrical transformer site, had already been engulfed by fire.

He explained that the fire later spread to old wooden ceilings and three nearby residential buildings. The first building, a ground-floor structure measuring about 30 by 25 feet and used as a dwelling house with one room, a parlour and a toilet, was fully ablaze.

The statement further noted that the second building, a one-storey house measuring about 30 by 30 feet and consisting of a bedroom, kitchen and toilet, had its upper floor severely affected by the fire.

A third ground-floor building of about 30 by 30 feet, containing two rooms and a toilet, was also caught up in the blaze.

The fire service said preliminary findings showed that the incident was caused by an electric spark.

Meanwhile, the Director of the Kano State Fire Service, Sani Anas, urged residents to take preventive measures against fire outbreaks.

He advised the public to avoid open flames in residential areas and to ensure the proper handling and maintenance of electrical appliances.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has praised Anambra State governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for his role in Nigeria’s development and his intellectual contributions to national discourse.

Shettima spoke on Tuesday in Awka, the Anambra State capital, during Soludo’s inauguration for a second term. He attended the event as a representative of President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, his senior special assistant on media and communications, the vice-president described Soludo as a committed public servant with strong ideas and dedication to national progress.

“The policies of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, have benefited from the candour, specialist insight, and patriotic counsel of this distinguished economist, this restless thinker, and this public intellectual of uncommon range, both in open fora and in private conversations. And that is how it should be,” Shettima stated.

“That is what it means to be in the business of nation-building. It means placing the welfare of the federation above the vanity of partisan fences. It means understanding that Nigeria is too precious a vessel to be abandoned to the storms simply because the rowers wear different colours.”

He said Soludo has shown that leadership can bring people together without conflict. He noted that such leadership can persuade without disrespect and remain firm without losing its values, especially at a time of division.

“It is therefore no surprise that his people have welcomed him again and entrusted him with another term to hold the rudder of this great state and guide it farther into safe and prosperous waters,” he stated, declaring that “the people of Anambra are today renewing not just a mandate, but a covenant with competence.”

“And as Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim takes this oath once again beside him, the state is also affirming that leadership is not only about the brilliance of the man at the top but also about the steadiness, loyalty, and discipline of those who help translate vision into order and order into progress,” the vice-president added.

Shettima said the Anambra governor has demonstrated that political differences do not have to lead to conflict. He noted that such differences can create room for cooperation.

“Professor Soludo has shown, too, that it is possible to see beyond the dangerous shenanigans that so often pass for politics in our clime and to keep faith with the higher calling of public life,” he said.

The vice-president also highlighted Soludo’s influence on national conversations. He said the governor’s views on economic and political matters attract wide attention.

He said Soludo has maintained a cordial working relationship with the federal government. He added that this has created stability in engagements between both sides.

According to him, the governor has demonstrated a commitment to real change rather than political rhetoric.

Shettima said the Anambra government has taken steps to improve public order, strengthen security, and tackle criminal activities in parts of the state. He expressed confidence that the second term would consolidate earlier achievements.

He added that the federal government remains ready to work with state governments that prioritise the welfare of citizens.

In his speech, Soludo pledged to serve the state with renewed dedication. He said his administration would build on the progress recorded in his first term, with focus on development and transformation.

“Anambra state has witnessed significant progress in the health, education, financial, agricultural, and other sectors under his leadership,” he said.

The governor also expressed appreciation to the people of Anambra for their support during the last election.

“The unprecedented 73 percent of the votes you cast in our favour was more than ordinary votes but an affirmation of love, patriotism, and partnership in rebuilding our homeland. We will never take your historic support for granted,” he said.

Soludo also thanked President Tinubu, Vice-President Shettima, and their spouses for their support.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The federal government has announced Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, as public holidays in celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Fitr.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this in a statement released on Tuesday.

Eid-el-Fitr is observed by Muslims worldwide to mark the conclusion of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.

In his message, the minister congratulated Muslims on completing the fasting period. He urged them to continue to reflect the values of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice associated with Ramadan.

He also encouraged Nigerians to use the festive period to offer prayers for peace, unity, and progress in the country.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Thursday, 19th March, and Friday, 20th March 2026, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, which signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan,” the statement reads.

“While wishing the Muslim faithful a joyful Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, the Minister encourages citizens to celebrate responsibly and extend acts of kindness to the less privileged in society.”

Tunji-Ojo further advised citizens to celebrate in a responsible manner and show kindness to vulnerable members of society.

He added that the federal government remains focused on strengthening national unity and ensuring peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has dismissed six political appointees and placed another official on suspension.

The development was made public on Tuesday through a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Samuel Jatau, according to NAN.

Jatau explained that the action forms part of efforts by the state government to improve performance and strengthen service delivery across various offices.

Those removed from their positions include Timothy Golu, the governor’s special adviser on strategic communication, and Fom Gwottson, liaison officer for Jos South. Others are Nanbol Rimvyat and Nannim Langyi, who served as liaison officers for Langtang North.

Also affected are Paul Datugum and Nimchat Rims, who held similar roles in Qua’an Pan and Langtang South respectively.

In a related move, the governor approved the suspension of Johnbull Shekarau, chairman of the Plateau State House of Assembly Service Commission, over alleged actions said to be inconsistent with the expectations of his office.

The SSG did not disclose specific reasons for the dismissal of the six appointees. He, however, instructed them to return all government property in their possession to the appropriate authorities.

Jatau added that the governor appreciated the contributions of the affected officials during their time in office and wished them success in their future pursuits.

Iranian state media has announced the death of Ali Larijani, the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, following reported Israeli air attacks carried out overnight.

The confirmation came after Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, stated that Larijani and Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani were killed during the strikes.

In a statement issued by his office, Katz alleged that both men lost their lives in the operation.

“I have just been updated by the Chief of Staff that Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and the head of the Basij — Iran’s central repression apparatus — (Soleimani), were eliminated last night,” Katz claimed in a statement released by his ministry.

Earlier reports from Israeli media indicated that Larijani was the intended target of the overnight assault.

The development marks a significant escalation in tensions between Iran and Israel, as both sides continue to exchange accusations over ongoing military actions.

The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 enters a crucial phase this week as clubs prepare for the return leg fixtures.

The matches are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday. All sixteen teams remain in contention, but only eight will advance to the quarter-finals at the end of the ties. The opening legs took place last week.

The teams still in the competition include Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Atalanta, Sporting CP, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea, Arsenal, Newcastle United, Atletico Madrid, Galatasaray, Bayer Leverkusen, Manchester City and Bodo/Glimt.

Several fixtures present different challenges based on first-leg outcomes.

On Tuesday, Sporting CP will host Bodo/Glimt in Lisbon after suffering a 3-0 defeat in Norway. Chelsea face a difficult task against Paris Saint-Germain at Stamford Bridge following a 5-2 loss in the first leg. Manchester City welcome Real Madrid to the Etihad Stadium after losing 3-0 in Spain and must produce a strong performance to overturn the deficit. Arsenal take on Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium after a 1-1 draw in Germany, with both sides still evenly matched.

Wednesday’s fixtures also promise intense action. Barcelona host Newcastle at Camp Nou after both sides settled for a 1-1 draw in England. Tottenham will attempt to recover from a 5-2 defeat against Atletico Madrid when they meet in London. Liverpool face Galatasaray at Anfield after a narrow 1-0 loss in Turkey, while Bayern Munich appear to be in a commanding position against Atalanta following a 6-1 victory in the first leg.

A former coach at TTC Football Academy, Emmanuel Brown, shared his thoughts on the upcoming matches.

“It’s now getting more interesting at this stage of the competition.

“The second leg is the last chance for every team to try and give their all to progress to the next stage of the competition.

“Those teams that lost the first legs will be under more pressure compared to the teams that won their first legs. Because you know you will get knocked out if you fail to win the second leg, and it’s obviously like your last chance.

“I was impressed by several first-leg matches, especially Bodo/Glimt’s victory over Sporting. The Norwegian side is definitely a dark horse to watch in this year’s Champions League; they are well-organized and function as a cohesive unit,” he said.

Brown also identified teams he believes are in strong positions to qualify for the next round.

“From the first-leg results, it seems some teams already have one foot in the last eight.

“Bodo/Glimt, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, PSG, and Atletico Madrid, which all won their first legs, seem favourite to progress.

“I also see Arsenal progressing because they will be playing at home, as well as Barcelona.

“The match between Liverpool and Galatasaray is tough to call. Galatasaray won narrowly 1-0 in Turkey, but Liverpool is a different challenge at Anfield.

“I hope Galatasaray qualifies because of Victor Osimhen. I want to watch that man go far in this competition, but my head is telling me Liverpool could win. However, I believe it is a 50-50 chance,” he said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called on political parties in Osun State to promptly notify the commission of any concerns or irregularities observed during the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Mutiu Agboke, said the move would enable the commission to take appropriate action where necessary.

Agboke spoke with journalists on Monday during an inspection tour of registration centres across the state. He led a team of INEC officials to assess the conduct of the exercise and engage with party representatives at the various locations visited.

The monitoring exercise covered centres such as Ilare Methodist Primary School in Ward 7, Obokun Local Government Area; Saint Andrew Primary School in Ada 1 Ward 7, Boripe Local Government Area; and Holy Michael Primary School in Olonde, Ikirun, Ward 8, Ifelodun Local Government Area.

He explained that the visit was designed to confirm that the registration process was orderly and transparent. He added that the commission needed direct feedback from its staff and party agents involved in the exercise.

“Many people are not aware that the registration exercise has been moved to the Registration Area level, and we must monitor what our staff are doing there,” he said.

Agboke noted that it was important for the commission to observe activities on the ground rather than rely solely on reports.

“There may be issues that we are not aware of and that may not be brought to my attention. That is why we decided not to remain in the office but to come to the field and hear directly from the party agents.

“When we come out like this, they will see that we are following up on what our staff are doing. The essence is simply monitoring, nothing more, nothing less,” he stated.

On political campaigns, the REC described them as internal matters of the parties. He, however, said INEC would continue to keep track of developments to ensure compliance with electoral rules.

“Campaigns are internal arrangements of the political parties. We may monitor them, but for now there has not been any formal invitation to us. However, we are tracking the activities of the parties and will carry out oversight where necessary,” he said.

Agboke also addressed the timeline for the voter registration exercise. He disclosed that the process is expected to continue until close to the election period, after which it will be paused to allow for the production of Permanent Voter Cards.

“The totality of the exercise may run until around August, but before the election in Osun the registration will stop so that all cards can be printed and distributed to voters,” he explained.

At the centres visited, representatives of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party were present. Security personnel were also on ground to maintain order throughout the exercise.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A tragic ordeal has taken a turn for the worse for a kidnapped National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, simply identified as Abba, who remains in the clutches of his abductors despite the payment of a substantial ransom.

According to sources close to the victim’s family, the terrorists had initially demanded a significant sum for the release of the corps member, who was seized in Zamfara State. After weeks of agonizing negotiations, the family and associates managed to raise the funds to meet the captors’ demands.

Reliable sources disclosed that the ransom payment, amounting to ₦10 million in cash, was delivered to the bandits. In addition to the monetary payment, the terrorists also insisted on, and received, two brand-new motorcycles as part of the agreed-upon terms for Abba’s release.

However, in a cruel twist that has left the family devastated, the armed group reneged on the agreement immediately after collecting the ransom and the motorcycles. It is understood that the terrorists are now making fresh demands, insisting on an additional motorcycle before they will free the hostage.

The development has plunged the family into deeper despair, having exhausted their resources to gather the initial ransom. Abba, a corps member serving his fatherland, has now spent an extended period in captivity.

Authorities in Zamfara State have repeatedly advised against the payment of ransom to bandits, arguing that it fuels further abductions. Nonetheless, desperate families often resort to private negotiations and payments in a bid to secure the freedom of their loved ones.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official confirmation from the police regarding the latest development in the case. The family is reportedly at a loss, unsure of how to meet the new demand.