By Kassim Isa Muhammad

Yobe State is set to embark on a significant initiative to enhance education by distributing learning materials worth over N1 billion.

The Yobe State Universal Basic Education Board plans to kick off the distribution early next week, encompassing a wide range of educational resources such as books, bags, whiteboards, chalks, markers, phones for teachers, uniforms, textbooks, novels, and various essential materials.

Mallam Isa Shettima, Secretary to the Board, emphasized the proactive nature of the initiative, addressing challenges in the state’s educational sector, while the distribution is inclusive, extending beyond government public schools to include Almajiri schools across the state.

The comprehensive effort, valued at over N1 billion, reflects contributions from UNICEF and other international organizations, coupled with substantial financial investments by the Yobe government.

To ensure fair and effective distribution, the Board plans to visit all 17 local governments in the state. In addition, teachers will receive digital devices to enhance their teaching methodologies.

Dr. Muhammad Sani Idriss, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the educational sector, pledging to overcome challenges and work towards continuous improvements.

The initiative extends its reach to Tsangaya schools, ensuring a comprehensive impact on education in the state.

By Mohammed Usman

Every society comprises class and caste, dividing its members into the same or similar status, profession, occupation, etc. This division makes the society function and able to move forward. It is the factor that enables each member to, directly and indirectly, benefit from another to sustain a living. 

We can say that these societal classes and castes are God Made since they have existed since time immemorial. More so, they exist even in the heavenly kingdom of God, the Almighty, for not all the angels of God are of the same status andrank. But each one of them remains an Angel of God, anyway! And being one angel of a status lower than the other doesn’t make him less than an angel. The difference in status resulted from the different purposes for which each one was created to serve. 

Similarly, mankind is made into different statuses, occupations and professions. We are all cut out for various reasons, so we can never be the same or go the same path in life’s journey. We are being driven, all of us, by the force of destiny that is beyond our control. It is in the hand of God, our dear creator. He is the one who penned down what and who each of us will be after being born and given a lease of life.

This, therefore, is worthwhile for us to fathom the metaphysical differences we have in perception of life phenomenon, passions, and craves_which are the fundamentals of our existence and our purpose for living, or one of the essential purposes for which we are created, and of course, the reason why we belong to a different caste. 

Having this at the back of our minds and having understood it fully, we shall never assume that belonging to an assumably superior societal class or caste makes us superior to another in entirety. It is foolish to think this way. As I said above, we all need each other. And we benefit from each other to sustain living. That makes us less than superior than we think we are! 

For more emphasis, belonging to that societal class or caste is, or the other, not a consequence of our own doings or mental engineering. It is something within the orbit of our destiny made and controlled by God, the owner of insurmountable power. 

So the earlier we come to this wisdom, the better and more balanced society we shall make for ourselves, and as a result, we make the world a better place for mankind to live to the fullest. 

May Allah grant us understanding. Aameaan! 

Mohammed Usman (Noble-pen) wrote via mohammedusman5706@gmail.com.

By Muhammad Abdurrahman

Mallam Isa Gusau, the spokesperson of the governor of Borno State, died two days ago in faraway New Delhi, India, after a protracted illness. Meanwhile, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has commiserated with Governor Babagana Umara Zulum. 

In a statement issued on Saturday, 13^th January 2024, by the group’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, MURIC urged the governor to take Gusau’s death in the spirit of the philosophy of death in Islam: ubiquitous, unavoidable and necessary end.

The human rights organisation also condoled the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar El-Kanemi, and the entire Borno Muslim Community. 

Akintola described Gusau’s death as painful and a heavy loss. He also described the deceased as a devoted Muslim, a professional to the core, a humanist, an idealist and a principled family man. 

He prayed for Allah’s forgiveness and al-Jannah Firdaus for Mallam Isa Gusau. He also prayed that members of the deceased’s family, friends and acquaintances would have the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. 

By Uzair Adam Imam

The appointment was disclosed in a statement Friday by the Special Adviser to the President ( Media & Publicity), Chief Ajuri Ngelale.

President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the appointment of Ali Nuhu, aka the King of Kannywood, and ten other distinguished individuals to spearhead various agencies under the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy.

The appointments could be seen as a strategic move to foster growth and innovation in the arts, culture, and creative economy sector.

The recently appointed Chief Executive Officers are set to bring a fresh wave of leadership and expertise to their respective roles:

1. Tola Akerele: Takes the helm as the Director-General of the National Theatre.

2. Dr. Shaibu Husseini: Assumes the role of Director-General at the National Films and Censors Board.

3. Mr. Obi Asika: Appointed Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture.

4. Aisha Adamu Augie: Steps into the position of Director-General at the Centre for Black and African Arts and Culture.

5. Ekpolador-Ebi Koinyan: Appointed Chief Conservator of the National War Museum.

6. Ahmed Sodangi: Assumes the responsibility of Director-General at the National Gallery of Art.

7. Chaliya Shagaya: Takes on the role of Director-General at the National Institute of Archeology and Museums Studies.

8. Hajiya Khaltume Bulama Gana: Appointed Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria.

9. Otunba Biodun Ajiboye: Assumes the position of Director-General at the National Institute for Cultural Orientation.

10. Ali Nuhu: Takes charge as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation.

11. Ramatu Abonbo Mohammed: Assumes the pivotal role of Director-General at the National Commission for Museums and Monuments.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

Yemen’s Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, declared that US and British interests are now “legitimate targets” following a series of overnight strikes on strategic places in Houthi-held areas. 

The rebels’ Supreme Political Council issued a statement warning of retaliation, asserting that the armed forces would ensure the aggressors face consequences for their actions. 

In response to the attacks, the council stated, “The joy of the aggressors will not be long, and our hand will be the upper hand, God willing.  

“All American-British interests have become legitimate targets for the Yemeni armed forces.” 

The overnight strikes, reported to have killed five people according to the rebels, came after weeks of Houthi attacks on Israeli-linked shipping in the Red Sea, in protest against Israel’s actions in its conflict with Hamas.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

The German government strongly dismissed accusations of Israel committing “genocide” in Gaza during a statement on Friday at the UN’s top court. 

Government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit stated that Israel was “defending itself” in response to “inhuman” attacks by Hamas on October 7. 

Hebestreit highlighted Germany’s commitment to the UN Genocide Convention, showing its significance in preventing another Holocaust. 

He firmly rejected any “political instrumentalization” of the Convention and acknowledged varying international opinions on Israel’s military operation in Gaza. 

The statement clarified Germany’s position, decisively rejecting the accusation of genocide against Israel brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 

Hebestreit announced Germany’s intention to intervene as a third party under an article allowing states to seek clarification on the use of a multilateral convention. 

South Africa initiated an emergency case at the ICJ, alleging Israel’s breach of the UN Genocide Convention and urging an immediate halt to the Gaza campaign.

Israel and the United States have dismissed the case, promising a robust defence. 

While Germany maintains its historical responsibility for the Holocaust and supports the state of Israel, recent criticism has emerged regarding the Israeli campaign’s impact on civilians. 

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stressed the need for “less intensive” combat and increased aid flows.

 By Uzair Adam Imam 

The Supreme Court has overturned the earlier decision of the Court of Appeal Abuja, which deemed the Zamfara governorship election inconclusive.  

Hon. Justice Emmanuel Agim, delivering the lead decision, criticized the lower court’s judgment as “perverse and lacking evidential foundation.” 

The verdict brings a sense of affirmation to Governor Lawal, who expressed his delight in a statement released by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris.  

Lawal sees the Supreme Court’s decision as a reflection of the people’s desire for positive development and progress in Zamfara. 

Governor Lawal stated the importance of unity and collaboration for achieving sustainable development in the state.

He stated, “I am thrilled to have received affirmation of my election by the Supreme Court today. This verdict will boost our morale in fulfilling our campaign promises.” 

The governor sees the victory as a collective decision made by the people of Zamfara during the governorship election held in March last year.  

He urged all residents, including opposition parties, to unite and work together to rebuild and restore the state. Lawal highlighted his administration’s commitment to liberate Zamfara from the shackles of poor governance.  

He called on stakeholders to actively collaborate, stating that the success of their collective efforts depends on unity and cooperation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Supreme Court has upheld the election of Governor Abba Yusuf from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as the legitimate governor of Kano State.

This ruling sets aside the judgements from both the Kano Governorship Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, which had initially declared Nasiru Gawuna of the APC as the winner. 

Chairing the panel, Justice John Okoro delivered the decisive judgement on Friday, reinstating the 165,616 votes that were previously invalidated and deducted from Mr. Yusuf’s total by the lower tribunal.

This significant legal development reshapes the political landscape in Kano State, solidifying Governor Abba Yusuf’s electoral mandate.

By Muhammad Muzdaleefa  

Throughout history, humanitarian services provided by philanthropists have played a vital role in making the world a better place. By addressing pressing needs such as healthcare, empowerment, and education, philanthropists can help improve the quality of life for people around the world. The Aminu Musa Abdulsalam Foundation, popularly known as the AMA Foundation, is one such organization that has made a significant impact through its various programs and initiatives in many communities across Nigeria. Its founder, Alhaji Musa Bello, is a renowned entrepreneur with national and global recognition. 

The AMA Foundation was established in 2012 with the vision of improving the lives of people in Nigeria through philanthropy. The organization’s founders believed that by providing healthcare, education, and other forms of support, they could make a lasting difference in the lives of those in need. Over the years, the AMA Foundation has expanded its reach, developing programs and partnerships that have impacted thousands of lives under its slogan “Giving Back”.  

The AMA Foundation has made significant contributions to the field of education, including the construction of the HAMI school domiciled in Tudu Wada, Kaduna State, which provides free education to orphans and underprivileged children. This school has given these children the opportunity to receive an education and improve their lives. In addition, the foundation has also awarded scholarships to hundreds of its students to advance their secondary education at the Federal Government College, Malali, Kaduna. The distribution of laptops at many Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education is another important achievement in the area of education. These initiatives have had a positive effect on reducing inequality and improving educational opportunities, leading to potentially far-reaching benefits for individuals, communities, and society as a whole.  

Furthermore, the AMA Foundation’s health initiatives have been successful in improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities. These initiatives have helped to address some of the most pressing health challenges in Nigeria, including the high prevalence of cataracts and lack of access to advanced medical care. By improving access to eye surgery and providing medical equipment to hospitals, the foundation has made a real difference in the lives of many people. In addition, the foundation’s support for medical services outside of Nigeria has allowed people to receive the care they need, regardless of their location. 

Not only in education and health, the AMA Foundation has also been focused on human empowerment, seeking to improve the capacity of young Nigerians. Through agreements and partnerships with international organizations, the foundation has been able to provide opportunities for training, workshops, and other resources that help to build the capacity of young people. These initiatives have a wide-reaching impact, as they empower individuals and provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to improve their lives and the lives of their communities.  

The AMA Foundation’s activities in education, health, and human empowerment have had a profound impact on the lives of individuals and communities in Nigeria. By providing access to quality education, improving access to medical care, and empowering young people, the foundation is helping to create a brighter future for the country. Through its programs and initiatives, the AMA Foundation is making a real difference, one person and one community at a time. 

Muhammad Muzdaleefa is a social media enthusiast and can be reached via mohammedadamu736@gmail.com

By Muhammad Yakubu Abare

In the quiet corners of our shared memories, a vibrant, so enduring soul exists that even the passage of time cannot diminish its brilliance. MB Mohammed is a name that resonates with the echoes of laughter, shared dreams, and the unspoken bond of a friendship that weathered the storms of life. It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to a companion, a confidant, and a cherished friend who, after a valiant three-decade struggle, succumbed to the relentless grip of sickle cell anaemia on the 1st of November, 2023.

Our journey together began in the embrace of a shared childhood, where our families were not just neighbours but kindred spirits united by the thread of fate. From when our parents toiled side by side in the pursuit of livelihoods to their eventual retirements and relocations, MB and I traversed the meandering paths of life hand in hand. An enthusiastic learner, he possessed an insatiable thirst for knowledge, which propelled him to pursue Economics at the University of Maiduguri, from which he emerged with commendable distinction. 

In the journey of life together, MB faced challenges that would have deterred a less resilient spirit. Living with sickle cell anaemia, he confronted each hurdle with courage that spoke volumes of his determination. His path, marked by periodic bouts of illness, bore witness to a remarkable strength that defied the limitations of his physical condition. Beyond the confines of health struggles, MB was not only a scholar but also a tech virtuoso. His proficiency in programming and computer skills illuminated a path of endless possibilities. 

Before venturing into the humanitarian sector, MB donned the hat of a dedicated teacher at a private school. Here, he harnessed his programming prowess for the greater good, developing software solutions for school management, including salary vouchers, results computation, and attendance tracking – all offered selflessly, free of charge. His passion for education extended beyond the classroom as he initiated science-based student clubs, fostering a love for learning.

During his one-year service in the NYSC, MB’s altruism shone brightly. Despite battling his health challenges, he engaged in community services, particularly in education. His efforts included distributing free books to school libraries, which garnered him well-deserved awards. This selfless dedication defined his remarkable life, turning adversity into opportunities for others. Though he grappled with sickle cell, his existence was a testament to the extraordinary resilience that marked his every endeavour.

Our closeness transcended mere friendship; it was a kinship forged in the crucible of shared aspirations and mutual support. Our mothers often remarked on the uncanny synchronicity of our thoughts as though our minds danced to the same rhythm. As we embarked on our respective careers, we found solace in exchanging our companionship. CV reviews, career advice, and shared triumphs became the threads weaving the tapestry of our intertwined professional lives.

In a moment of need, MB opened his doors and heart, welcoming me into his rented apartment for an entire year when I embarked on the employment journey. His generosity and unwavering support were a testament to the depth of our connection. He stood as a pillar of strength, a beacon of guidance whenever the tides of life grew tumultuous. It is with a profound sense of disbelief and grief that I learned of his passing, a mere four days after our last communication on the 27th of November via WhatsApp.

The news of his departure on the 1st of November shook the foundations of my world, leaving a void that words struggle to fill. Yet, in this time of sorrow, I find peace in the memories we created, the shared laughter, and the indomitable spirit that defined MB Mohammed. As we mourn his physical absence, let our hearts be united in prayers for the eternal peace and tranquillity of his soul. In these days of grief, we turn our hearts heavenward, seeking solace in the divine and entrusting the departed soul to the mercy of Allah.

“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un” – Surely, we belong to Allah, and to Him shall we return. May MB’s soul find tranquillity in the divine embrace, and may his memory continue to illuminate our paths as we navigate the journey of life.

Muhammad Yakubu Abare wrote via muhammadyakubuabare@gmail.com.