BUK

By Uzair Adam

A 300-level student of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Umar Abdullahi Hafizi, has been confirmed dead after he was fatally stabbed by suspected phone snatchers at his residence in Dorayi Quarters, Gwale Local Government Area of Kano State.

The incident, which occurred around 11:00 p.m. on Wednesday, has sparked widespread grief within the university community, prompting an official response from the institution’s management.

In a statement signed by Lamara Garba, Director of Public Affairs, and released on Wednesday, the university described the loss as devastating.

“The Management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has expressed deep sadness over the tragic death of Umar Abdullahi Hafizi,” the statement said, adding that the student’s death was “a painful loss to the University community.”

While confirming that the killing happened outside the university premises, the statement reiterated the institution’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, speaking on behalf of the management, assured the university community that efforts are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“BUK is working closely with security agencies to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he said.

As part of its immediate response, the university facilitated the transportation of the deceased’s body to his hometown in Zaria, Kaduna State, where he was buried according to Islamic rites.

The management also appealed for calm, urging students to be vigilant and the public to assist security operatives with any helpful information.

“The Management calls on students to remain calm and vigilant and urge members of the public to cooperate with security operatives by providing any useful information that could assist in the ongoing investigation,” the statement added.

BUK concluded the statement with prayers for the deceased, “Bayero University Kano prays for the repose of the soul of Umar Abdullahi Hafizi and for the Almighty to grant his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

By Uzair Adam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 25 individuals suspected of internet fraud in a sting operation in Kano.

According to a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday by the commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the arrest took place on Monday opposite Bayero University Kano (BUK) New Site.

Oyewale revealed that the suspects were apprehended following actionable intelligence that linked them to various cybercrime activities.

“All suspects apprehended are confirmed to be undergraduate students of BUK,” he stated.

Items recovered during the operation include several mobile phones, laptops, internet routers, and a Honda Accord vehicle.

He added that the arrest followed weeks of surveillance and monitoring related to suspected involvement in internet fraud, identity theft, and financial scams.

Oyewale further said the suspects will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.

By Uzair Adam

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has commissioned a National Cybersecurity Centre at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), in a move to strengthen Nigeria’s cybersecurity capacity and digital resilience.

The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, at the university’s New Campus, was performed on behalf of NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, by Dr. Jide Ajayi, Director of Zonal Coordination at the agency.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ajayi described the centre as a strategic national asset that goes beyond infrastructure.

“It is the activation of a knowledge-driven platform designed to equip our nation with the tools, talent, and infrastructure required to safeguard our digital space,” he said.

He added that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Strategic Blueprint of the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.

The newly commissioned facility is expected to support cybersecurity education, research, capacity building, and innovation.

Dr. Ajayi noted that cybersecurity has become an indispensable pillar for building trust in the digital economy, especially in an era of increasing cyber threats and vulnerabilities.

He announced that NITDA, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), will co-host the first National Cybersecurity Conference from July 9 to 10, 2025, in Abuja.

The event will bring together global experts, policymakers, and innovators to chart the future of AI-powered cybersecurity in Nigeria.

In his vote of thanks, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, FMAN, expressed deep appreciation to NITDA and the Ministry of Communications for their commitment to technological advancement and education.

“This centre is a symbol of foresight and commitment. It will significantly improve the quality of teaching, research, and practical training in cybersecurity at our university,” he said.

Professor Abbas added that BUK already runs undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in cybersecurity and is prepared to launch a PhD programme soon, noting that the centre will enhance the university’s role as a national hub for cybersecurity excellence.

He also reaffirmed BUK’s readiness to collaborate with NITDA and the ministry in training, research, and policy development, stressing the university’s strategic position in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.

The establishment of the National Cybersecurity Centre at BUK marks a major step in fortifying Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and promoting inclusive, region-based digital empowerment.

By Uzair Adam

Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has announced a major academic milestone as all 53 academic programmes presented for the National Universities Commission (NUC) accreditation in October/November 2024 received full or accredited status.

The Daily Reality reports that the development was disclosed in a statement signed by Haruna Aliyu, Registrar of the University, on May 8, 2025.

According to the statement, the successful accreditation covers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across multiple faculties, including Administration, Agriculture, Allied Health Sciences, Arts, Computing, Education, Engineering, Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Social Sciences.

Describing the outcome as a “resounding testimony of quality,” the university said the results affirm its commitment to academic excellence, faculty development, curriculum advancement, and infrastructure improvement.

Among the notable programmes that secured full or accredited status are Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy, Civil Engineering, Arabic Studies, Environmental Health Science, Accounting, Taxation, and various postgraduate degrees in Business and Public Administration.

The accreditation, valid for five years, ensures that enrolled students are receiving education aligned with NUC-approved standards.

It also validates the acceptability of their certificates for employment, further studies, and participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

BUK’s management expressed gratitude to the NUC for its thorough evaluation and acknowledged the efforts of Deans, Heads of Departments, staff, and students for their collective role in achieving the feat.

The statement concluded by inviting stakeholders, prospective students, and the wider academic community to join in celebrating the success and to support the university’s ongoing mission of excellence in teaching, research, and community service.

By Anas Abbas

Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has officially launched an on-campus tricycle service at its New Campus. 

The initiative, inaugurated by Vice-Chancellor Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, aims to provide a safer and more convenient mode of transportation for students and staff navigating the university’s expansive grounds.

During the launch event, which was attended by key university officials, including the Registrar Haruna Aliyu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) Professor Haruna Musa, University Librarian Dr. Kabiru Dahiru Abbas, Head of Public Affairs Lamara Garba, and Professor Yakubu Magaji Azare, Professor Abbas highlighted the university’s commitment to prioritizing student welfare.

“This initiative is part of our broader effort to enhance security and convenience for our students,” Professor Abbas stated.

“We are committed to making our campuses not only academically stimulating but also comfortable and safe for everyone.” He added

He assured the university community that the tricycle service would be operated under strict monitoring and evaluation, with trained drivers adhering to best practices from 7 AM to 9 PM daily.

The introduction of the tricycle service follows a February 2025 ban on motorcycles on campus due to rising security concerns. 

The new tricycles are expected to offer a structured and secure alternative for students, facilitating seamless movement across the campus while upholding BUK’s reputation for safety and order.

By Uzair Adam 

Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has approved the creation of new units within its Public Affairs Directorate and appointed Nura Garba as the Head of the Digital Media Unit. 

The decision, endorsed by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, is part of efforts to enhance the university’s communication strategies and digital engagement.  

Nura Garba, formerly of the Information and Publication Unit, will lead the newly established Digital Media Unit, which will focus on utilizing digital platforms to promote BUK’s brand.

The unit will also engage with online audiences and provide timely updates on university activities.  

In a similar development, Muhammad Salisu Rabiu, previously with the Protocol Unit, has been appointed as the Head of the Publicity and Outreach Unit. 

His role will involve promoting the university’s achievements, programs, and services to various stakeholders, including the media and alumni.  

The appointments were confirmed in letters dated March 12, 2025, signed by the Registrar, Dr. Haruna Aliyu, and have taken immediate effect.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disbursed loans worth over N20.07 billion to 192,906 students across public tertiary institutions in Nigeria, according to an announcement on the organization’s X (formerly Twitter) account.

The latest disbursement, which reflects approvals made as of January 1, 2025, places Bayero University, Kano (BUK) at the top of the list, with 11,683 students set to receive a total of N1.3 billion.

The University of Maiduguri follows closely, where 12,198 students will share N1.27 billion. Other major beneficiaries include the University of Jos, with 6,988 students receiving N941 million, and the Federal University Dutsin-Ma, where 8,978 students are allocated N909 million.

At the University of Ibadan, 4,907 students will benefit from N746 million, while 5,451 students at the Federal University Dutse will receive N593 million.

Additionally, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, has 6,480 students who will share N578 million, and the University of Lagos will disburse N557 million to 3,685 students.

Smaller institutions also benefited, though to a lesser extent. For example, four students at Gombe State Polytechnic, Bajoga, are set to receive N122,000, and two students at Abia State Polytechnic will share N106,300.

Similarly, Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, has approved N214,116 for three students, while Kenule Benson Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori, will disburse N315,500 to seven students.

Other beneficiaries include Federal College of Education, Gidan Madi, where three students will receive N330,000, and Federal Polytechnic Ukana, Akwa Ibom, with 11 students sharing N518,500.

Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Imo State, has nine students allocated N368,400, while Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri, will distribute N528,500 among 12 students.

This disbursement is part of a broader initiative by NELFUND, which had earlier announced the allocation of N110 billion in student loans nationwide.

According to NELFUND’s Managing Director, Akintunde Sawyerr, these efforts are aimed at improving access to education for students in public institutions across the country.

By Uzair Adam

Bayero University Kano (BUK) has announced the promotion of 66 academic staff to the esteemed ranks of Professors and Associate Professors for the year 2024.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Deputy Registrar/Head of Public Affairs Directorate, Lamara Garba, on Tuesday.

The Daily Reality reports that 44 academic staff members were elevated to the rank of Professors, while 22 others achieved the status of Associate Professors.

The statement noted that this achievement reflects the university’s unwavering commitment to promptly recognizing and rewarding academic excellence.

“Among these recent promotions are the backlogged cases from 2023, ensuring that all deserving staff members receive due recognition,” the statement added.

Promoted to the Professorial cadre were the Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Said Ahmed, Suleiman Mainasara Yaradua, and Muhammad Sani Umar Musa, among others.

The Management reassured the university community that all eligible individuals would be promoted in line with the institution’s promotion guidelines, while urging staff and departments to strictly adhere to these guidelines to uphold the integrity and transparency of the promotion process.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

In a moment of great joy, the academic community celebrates the promotion of Dr Muhammad Sani Umar Rijiyar Lemo from Associate Professor to Full Professor at Bayero University, Kano.

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm, as Dr Umar Rijiyar Lemo is a well-known Islamic scholar within and outside the university.

Rijiyar Lemo’s promotion reflects years of hard work, dedication, and significant contributions to both the academic world and Islamic scholarship in the Hausa-speaking world.

Colleagues and students alike have expressed their happiness and offered prayers for continued success and blessings in his new role.

As he reaches this milestone in his career, it is hoped that this promotion will bring even greater prosperity and impact to his work.

The entire academic community wishes him well in this new chapter of his career, praying for further blessings and success.

By Bilal Muhammad Bello (BMB)

From a young age, I have been deeply fascinated by politics and dreamed of actively participating in it one day. Growing up in Kano State, I listened to political programs on local FM stations and national media, which nurtured my passion and understanding of the political landscape. This enthusiasm carried over into my academic journey at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), where I discovered opportunities to channel my political ambitions.

Upon gaining admission to BUK, even before lectures commenced, I visited the Students’ Union Government (SUG) Secretariat with a friend in his second year. At that time, the SUG President, fondly known as Third Man, led a vibrant administration. Observing the activities at the Secretariat left a lasting impression on me. I resolved that, despite the challenges ahead, I would one day participate in student politics.

However, during my first and second years, the school management suspended SUG elections and replaced the union with a caretaker committee (CTC). To stay involved, I joined my local government students’ association and other student unions, which allowed me to gain valuable experience and insights.

In 2023, during my third year, the school management reinstated SUG elections, and I seized the opportunity to run for the position of SUG Departmental Senator. Around the same time, my department, the Mass Communication Students Association (MACOSA), was preparing for elections. Since the position of Departmental Senator was part of the SUG elections, MACOSA executives decided to conduct a primary election to streamline the process. The winner of the primary would automatically secure an SUG election form.

I was one of three candidates vying for the position, determined to represent my department in the Students’ Representative Assembly (SRA). Financial challenges posed significant hurdles, but I remained optimistic. My campaign strategy focused on building genuine relationships with students across all levels. From my first year, I had shared resources like past question papers, handouts, and PDFs with my name attached, ensuring I was remembered. Additionally, I provided timely updates about school affairs and assisted newcomers in settling into university life. These efforts resonated with students and garnered their support.

The campaign period was intense. While my opponents distributed campaign materials such as hand fans and handouts, which I couldn’t afford, I relied on the unwavering support of my friends and team members. A close friend, Sa’ad Abubakar, even purchased my election form. My campaign team, including Hajara Abdullahi, Benjamin Jacobson, Umar Farouq, Junaidu Shehu, Abubakar Sadeeq Yahaya, Raheela Usman Buhamas, Sani Labaran and Abdulrauf Abdulrazak Rugu Rugu, worked tirelessly to mobilise voters.

The night before the election, we conducted a face-to-face campaign, visiting hostels such as Sa’adu Zungur (Blocks A, B, and C), Yar’Adua Block, El-Kanemi, Dantata, Dangote, and Ramat. We engaged students directly, explaining our vision and soliciting their support. Influential friends like Al-amin Musa Muhammad, Musa Rabiu and the current MACOSA President, Abbas Ynbs,  played pivotal roles in reaching key student areas with contribution of Fateemah Dabo, Anas Abbas, Alhassan Alhassan Gidan Kara, Khadijah MakkahSanda, Anwar Usman, Abdullahi Mohammed Abubakar, Uzair Adam Imam, Sadi Sada, Yusuf Aminu Yusuf and Adamu Muhammad Dan Hajiya.

The election results were a testament to the power of grassroots engagement and genuine relationships. I emerged victorious, securing the automatic ticket to represent my department in the 24th SRA. I initiated projects that strengthened our department’s presence in the university’s political landscape during my tenure.

Encouraged by this success, I later contested for the position of Faculty Senator and won unopposed, representing the Faculty of Communication in the 25th SRA. This journey was made possible through the unwavering support of friends like Abubakar Ibrahim Shehu, the President of the Department of Information and Media Studies, and the contributions of Distinguished Senator Abdullahi Yunusa Alkah of Law and distinguished Senator Ahmad Mijinyawa of Computing.

Reflecting on my journey, I attribute my success in student politics to a genuine commitment to helping others and fostering meaningful relationships by prioritising the needs of my peers, sharing knowledge, and maintaining mutual respect.

This experience has fulfilled my dream of participating in politics and equipped me with valuable lessons in leadership, collaboration, and perseverance—qualities I intend to carry forward into broader political endeavours.

Bilal Muhammad Bello (BMB) is a Senator Representing the Faculty of Communication 25th Student Representative Assembly SRA-SUG-BUK.