Kano State

By Sani Surajo Abubakar

Dr. Sani Danjuma was among Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s personal aides appointed on the 16th of June, 2023 as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) Administration I, but later assigned to oversee the portfolio of Principal Private Secretary (PPS) to the governor following the redeployment of the earlier appointment PPS Dr. Faruk Kurawa to (Kano State Agricultural and Rural Development Authority) KNARDA as substantive Managing Director.

Before his first appointment into the administrative circle of the government of Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, he served as a senior lecturer and the Head of the Computer Science Department of the Northwest University, Kano. 

In the intricate web of governance, the role of a Principal Private Secretary to a Governor is often understated yet profoundly impactful. Dr. Sani Danjuma, as the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor of Kano State, exemplifies the qualities of an uncommon gatekeeper. 

His dedication, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to public service have made him an indispensable asset to the Kano State Government.

As a pillar of support, Dr. Danjuma’s role extends beyond mere administrative duties. He is the linchpin in the Governor’s office, ensuring seamless communication, efficient coordination, and timely decision-making. 

His expertise in managing complex schedules, facilitating high-level meetings, and advising on strategic matters has been pivotal in the smooth operation of the government.

Dr. Danjuma’s role has contributed to the smooth operation of the government by ensuring that decisions are implemented effectively; his robust coordination between public agencies is leading to more efficient service delivery.

Beyond his administrative responsibilities, Dr. Danjuma serves as a trusted advisor to the Governor, providing informed and innovative insights. His ability to analyse complex issues, foresee potential challenges, and propose effective solutions has earned him the respect and trust of his peers and superiors.

Also, his commitment to public service is evident in his tireless efforts to support the Governor’s initiatives and policies.

He is driven by a passion for contributing to the development of Kano State and improving the lives of its citizens. 

His work ethic and professionalism set a high standard for others in the public service.

What sets Dr. Danjuma apart is his uncommon leadership style, which combines humility with effectiveness. He leads by example, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence. 

Thus, his ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, from government officials to community leaders, has been crucial in advancing the Governor’s agenda.

Dr. Sani Danjuma’s role as an uncommon gatekeeper is a testament to his exceptional skills, dedication, and commitment to public service. 

As he continues to serve the people of Kano State in this capacity, his contributions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the state’s development. 

His story inspires all who aspire to make a difference through public service.

In recognising Dr. Danjuma’s contributions, we acknowledge not just his professional achievements but also his character and the values he upholds. He is indeed an asset to the Governor’s office and a role model for future generations of public servants to emulate.

By highlighting Dr. Danjuma’s qualities and impact, it becomes clear that he is an indispensable tool in the number office in the state, contributing significantly to the state’s development.

His dedication to public service and strategic thinking is one of the tools that make him an exemplary figure in governance. 

Sani is the deputy director of the Public Enlightenment at Kano Government House.

By Uzair Adam 

The Kano State Government has refuted claims that it secured a new external loan of $6.6 million under the current New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) administration.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Director General of the State Public Debt Management Office, Hamisu Sadi Ali, described the allegation as false and politically driven.

The claim was made by a group known as the APC Patriotic Volunteers, which alleged that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s government had taken a fresh loan within two years of assuming office—an allegation earlier reported by the Daily Nigerian on June 11, 2025.

Sadi Ali dismissed the report, insisting that the present administration had not contracted any new domestic or external loans since coming into power.

“Since the inception of the NNPP-led administration till today, the Kano State Government under the leadership of His Excellency Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has not taken a single fresh loan,” he said.

He clarified that the government is still servicing loans inherited from the previous All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, which he described as a “wasted” eight-year period under former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The debt office boss also criticised Usman Alhaji, the leader of the APC group and former Secretary to the State Government, questioning his understanding of the 2021 law that established the State Public Debt Management Office—a law signed during the APC administration.

“If he claims ignorance of the law, we must remind him of Section 4(b), which empowers the State Debt Management Office to borrow on behalf of the government—under strict procedures and documentation,” Sadi Ali said.

He challenged the group to provide verifiable evidence from the Federal Debt Management Office in Abuja to back their claims.

“They should provide the name of the creditor, the subsidiary loan agreement, the purpose of the loan, the amortisation schedule, and whether it is a multilateral or bilateral loan,” he added.

Sadi Ali emphasised that the public can now differentiate between facts and political propaganda, adding that Governor Yusuf remains committed to fulfilling his mandate without being distracted by baseless accusations.

By Ismaila Abdulmumini

Kano, renowned for its rich history, cultural vibrancy, and socio-economic vitality, marked 57 years of statehood a few days ago. A long journey of sacrifices and transformations, usually one at a time, gives Kano the new look we see and admire today. Kano is now carving a new identity as Nigeria’s educational powerhouse, boasting four federal universities, three state-owned institutions, and over five private universities, in addition to state and privately funded colleges and polytechnics. 

Equally, quantifiable challenges and rubble need to be put together to build the Kano of our dreams—the one we revere and would be proud of. The state’s transformation into a learning hub has inadvertently exposed systemic gaps in critical sectors, gaps that demand urgent federal intervention to unlock Kano’s full potential.  

Despite its academic strides, Kano grapples with erratic electricity, which stifles the industries that support its institutions. Students and entrepreneurs alike face daily blackouts, which undermine research, innovation, and productivity. Experts argue that federal investment in renewable energy projects and grid modernisation could ignite industrial growth, creating thousands of jobs while sustaining the educational sector’s momentum. 

Kano’s healthcare system, chronically underfunded and overburdened, struggles to serve its 15 million residents. State-run hospitals lack essential equipment, and medical personnel are stretched thin. Federal input through facility upgrades, increased funding, and partnerships with the private sector could reduce pressure, improve public health outcomes, and attract medical tourism, turning a cost centre into a revenue stream.  

In Kano’s bustling large markets that serve Africa, such as Dawanau’s grains, Kwari’s fabrics, and Singa’s groceries, transactions remain stubbornly analogue. This “brick-and-mortar” mentality, experts say, stifles economic scalability in the twenty-first century. “Digitisation isn’t optional; it’s survival,” argues tech entrepreneur Aisha Musa. Federal grants to build a robust digital ecosystem, e-payment platforms, online marketplaces, and broadband expansion could connect Kano’s markets to global consumers, boosting GDP and curbing youth unemployment.  

Kano’s agricultural landscape is littered with bad, indefatigable innuendo. Farms teem with tomatoes, peppers, and livestock, yet the state imports processed dairy goods. The absence of modern processing facilities leaves farmers vulnerable to waste and price fluctuations. A federal push to establish agro-industrial zones with cold storage and meat-processing plants could transform raw abundance into export-ready products, slashing Nigeria’s $10 billion annual food import bill and strengthening the naira. 

Potholed roads and inefficient rail networks cripple trade, inflating costs and deter investors. Upgrading transport infrastructure, which relies heavily on the federal government, would streamline the movement of goods from farms to ports, link markets to neighbouring countries, and position Kano as a logistics hub. “Better roads mean cheaper goods, happier consumers, and a thriving economy,” notes logistics expert Tunde Okoye.  

The blueprint for Kano’s renaissance is clear: targeted federal investments in energy, healthcare, digitisation, agro-industry, and transport. Such interventions promise to generate employment, diversify revenue streams, reduce import dependency, and fortify Nigeria’s economy. As the state stands at a crossroads, the message to Abuja is unequivocal: Empower Kano, and you empower the nation. Kano’s story does not need to be one of unfulfilled promises. With strategic governance, Africa’s “Centre of Commerce” could reclaim its title, this time, as a beacon of inclusive, 21st-century growth.

Ismaila Abdulmumini wrote via ima2040@outlook.com.

By Uzair Adam 

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has extended his Sallah greetings to the state’s pilgrims in Saudi Arabia and presented them with monetary gifts to mark the occasion. 

During his visit to their accommodation on Saturday night, he gifted each pilgrim 250 riyals, approximately N105,000.

Governor Yusuf praised the success of this year’s Hajj exercise, describing it as an improvement over previous years, particularly last year. 

“Last year’s Hajj exercise was also good, but this one is better, and we are grateful to God for this success,” he remarked.

The governor said the visit was intended to strengthen relationships, pray for the progress of Kano State and Nigeria, and share in the joy of Sallah with the pilgrims.

He urged the pilgrims to continue praying for Kano, Nigeria, and for those who lost their lives during the Hajj exercise. 

“I also commiserate with the families of those who died in Makkah, Madina, and during Arafah. May those who are missing be found,” he said.

Governor Yusuf called on the pilgrims to remain dedicated to their acts of worship and avoid any actions that might compromise the completion of their Hajj rituals until they return home safely.

He thanked the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, local government chairmen, and other stakeholders for ensuring a smooth Hajj experience. 

“I also thank the local government chairmen for their unwavering support in caring for the people from their areas. And there are also members of the State Assembly, like I said. None of them is sleeping. Everyone is doing their best,” he added.

The governor concluded by praying for the acceptance of the pilgrims’ Hajj and a safe trip back to Nigeria.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Lamin Rabi’u Ɗan Baffa, expressed gratitude to Governor Yusuf for his unwavering support and leadership during the pilgrimage.

By Anwar Usman

Government Secondary School Kwakwaci, Kano, has a rich history of academic excellence spanning decades. Over the years, the school has produced thousands of graduates who have gone on to achieve greater things.

The Daily Reality reliably gathered that despite these notable achievements, the school is now facing significant challenges.

Many fear that Kwakwaci will be among the schools in Kano State that may cease to exist due to severe environmental and managerial problems that have plagued the institution.

These unresolved issues threaten to ultimately force the school to close its doors.

Part of the problems bedevilling the school include dilapidated classrooms, abandoned laboratories, and other infrastructural decay, further exacerbated by rampant theft of school facilities by hooligans living in the vicinity.

Neglect despite huge education allocations

The Daily Reality also gathered that this menace persists despite the state’s declaration of an emergency in the education sector and the allocation of massive funds to improve education in the state.

This persistent neglect raises uncomfortable questions about the priorities of the Kano State Government, which allocated a staggering ₦95 billion to the education sector in its 2024 budget and an additional ₦168,350,802,346.19 (representing 31.00% of the budget) in 2025, making education one of the most heavily funded sectors in the state.

Current state of the school

The once-proud institution has no gate to protect its infrastructure, giving people of all kinds unrestricted access to the premises.

A staffer of the school, who spoke under the condition of anonymity during an interview with our reporter, lamented how the school has been grappling with issues that threaten its very existence.

“At night or after school hours, people enter the school and steal whatever they want due to the absence of security personnel at the gate,” he said.

He added that, “That’s what makes it easy for people to engage in criminal activities like smoking, drug abuse, and other illegal acts.”

He further noted, “The school is located very close to a market, and people have taken advantage of that proximity to carry out illegal activities.”

Other schools suffering a similar fate

Kwakwaci is not the only school in this dire situation. Several other schools are either on the verge of collapse or desperately need renovation to continue operating.

Schools like Mai Kwatashi, GSS Tudun Bojuwa and many others in the rural communities have suffered from over a decade of neglect.

In the case of GSS Tudun Bojuwa, the school has no gate, students sit on the floor, and the classrooms lack doors and windows, among other distressing conditions.

It is evident that while the state government’s declaration of an emergency in education is a vital step, these persistent problems continue to undermine teaching and learning.

Response from the principal

When contacted, the principal of Government Secondary School Kwakwaci said he was not fully aware of the situation.

“The only thing I know is that the school has no junior secondary students because they are under the supervision of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and they don’t send junior secondary students here anymore,” he said.

He attributed the lack of students to the high cost of living. “Most of the students come from areas like Kurna, Rijiyar Lemo, and Bachirawa.

“Many parents cannot afford the transport fare for their children, and that’s why the school has no junior classes.”

He added, “We only have SS2 and SS3 classes, and we have already appealed to stakeholders to reconsider the situation and send fresh students for junior secondary education.”

Government response

TDR also contacted the Kano State Ministry of Education through its Public Relations Officer, Usman Abdullahi, who referred us to the Executive Secretary of the Kano State Secondary Schools Management Board (KSSMB) for a comprehensive report on the condition of the school.

However, the Executive Secretary’s phone could not be reached.

Efforts to contact the PRO of the KSSMB also proved futile as there was no response to the calls and messages we sent to him at the time of compiling this report.

Many people believe that it is high time the government took decisive action to address the plight of these schools, especially Kwakwaci.

They also believe that that would help not only in revitalising education but also in curbing illegal activities by individuals who exploit the school’s deteriorating facilities.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has declared Monday a public holiday to sympathise with the families of the 22 Kano athletes who died in a tragic accident while on their way from Ogun State.

The governor gave the directive while still away on a pilgrimage for the 2025 Hajj.

“He directed that Monday, 2nd June 2025, be declared as a public holiday for the good people of Kano to pray and sympathise with the families of the victims.”

In a late-night statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor expressed his profound sadness over the loss and assured that all necessary support would be provided to the grieving families.

“It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured,” the Governor was quoted as saying.

“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We mourn with you and share in your grief,” he added

The state also called on Imams and all Muslims within and outside Kano to pray for the departed souls and for their respective families to bear the loss.

By Maryam Ahmad

An Upper Shariah Court in Kano has sentenced one Shafiu Abubakar to death by hanging for setting fire to a mosque in Gadan village, Gezawa Local Government Area, leading to the death of several worshippers.

The tragic incident occurred earlier this year when Abubakar reportedly locked the mosque doors and poured petrol before setting the building ablaze during early morning prayers. The attack claimed the lives of multiple worshippers and left others with severe injuries.

Presiding over the case, the judge described Abubakar’s actions as deliberate and heinous, noting that the punishment was in line with Shariah provisions for such offences.

The sentencing has drawn mixed reactions. Some residents welcome the verdict as justice served, while others continue to mourn the devastating loss.

Authorities have urged communities to remain calm and uphold peace and coexistence.

By Muhsin Ibrahim

Talk about Kannywood and, often, some people who are scarcely literate or have little knowledge of film will dismiss the entire industry as a sanctuary for good-for-nothing folks. But that is not always true.

I first met the late Malam Umar Maikudi (also known as Cashman) at the 2019 Kano Indigenous Languages of Africa Film Market and Festival (KILAF) conference. We connected immediately, discussed various issues, and ultimately exchanged phone numbers.

Although Malam was old enough to be my father, we maintained a relatively cordial relationship. He would send me some of his writings, and I would send him mine in return. We also met a few more times during subsequent editions of the KILAF conference. I am sure Alhaji Abdulkarim, the CEO of Moving Image and the organiser of KILAF, will dearly miss Cashman.

He was among the few brilliant individuals blessed with the talent to blend theory and practice seamlessly, and he excelled in both. 

Malam was a lecturer at Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria, and President of the Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN). 

Malam was a bridge between Kannywood and Nollywood, as he featured in films from both industries. Many Kannywood viewers may not be very familiar with him, though.

Cashman only recently started featuring in more mainstream Kannywood productions, such as Gidan Badamasi and Labarina. As a lawyer in the latter (Labarina), who is expected to code-switch and code-mix, you can tell this actor is definitely educated. He was.

His death is a significant loss to his family, of course, and to the Nigerian entertainment industry. May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant his loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss, amin.

Muhsin Ibrahim, PhD, is an academic and writes about Nigerian films. He can be contacted via muhsin2008@gmail.com.

By Sani Surajo Abubakar

At the commencement of the 28th Kano State Executive Council on Monday 19th of May, 2025, held at Kwankwasiyya City, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf presided over the swearing-in of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Ibrahim Umaru (rtd.) as the new commissioner of Internal Security and Special Services.

His nomination, screening and confirmation by the Kano State House of Assembly and subsequent swearing-in followed the resignation of the pioneer Commissioner of the Ministry some few weeks back.

The new commissioner was the immediate past Director-General of the Special Service Directorate, Kano Government House, responsible for coordinating the operations of security agencies and other engagements critical to safer living in the state.

Before his debut in the government business of Kano State, he was a retired Airforce Officer with vast experience in peacekeeping operations and national assignments both locally and internationally.

He is passionate and committed to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship skills development, with a firm belief that empowering youth will help improve the living standard of the state’s residents and boost rapid socioeconomic development and prosperity.

As a retired Air Vice Marshal, his new position as commissioner will bring a wealth of experience from his illustrious military career in curbing security challenges in the state.

 Indeed, his sojourn as Director-General of the Special Service Directorate and subsequently as commissioner underscores the state government’s commitment to harnessing expertise from various fields to drive progress.

The appointment of Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Ibrahim Umaru as Commissioner in Kano State Government has sparked widespread interest and debate. As a seasoned security expert, AVM Umaru’s induction into the state executive council is seen by many as a strategic move to leverage his expertise in bolstering security and development initiatives in the state.

Many observers view AVM Umaru’s appointment as fitting, given his background and the current security challenges facing Kano State. His experience in security matters is expected to significantly contribute to the state’s efforts in maintaining peace and stability.

The appointment seems to align perfectly with the needs of the state, making it a case of a “square peg in a square hole.”

With AVM Umaru on board, the Kano State Government will likely benefit from his strategic insight and operational expertise. His role could be pivotal in enhancing Security Measures.

He will also utilize his military background to strengthen security frameworks and responses, advise on policy matters, provide informed counsel on security and development policies, and Facilitate dialogue and cooperation between security agencies and local communities.

AVM Ibrahim Umaru’s appointment appears well-considered, aligning his skills with the state’s needs. As he takes on this new role, expectations are high for meaningful contributions to Kano State’s security and development landscape. Only time will tell how effectively he navigates the complexities of his new position, but the outlook seems promising.

Congratulations, AVM, and may your appointment yield positive results for our dear state, Kano.

Sani is the Deputy Director of Public Enlightenment at the Kano Government House.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has inaugurated a nine-member fact-finding committee to investigate allegations that 379 local government staff received salaries without proper identification.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Aliyu Yusuf, Director of Public Enlightenment at the Office of the Head of Service.

He said the decision followed growing agitation from civil servants over salary inconsistencies, prompting the state to revamp its payroll committee.

According to Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, the Head of Service, the committee will determine whether the affected staff members are retired, deceased, or otherwise untraceable.

The situation reportedly came to light during a salary validation exercise in which dummy vouchers were distributed across MDAs to help staff cross-check their pay against official records.

Musa explained that the discovery raised serious concerns, necessitating the constitution of a committee to ascertain the status of the affected workers and recover any salaries paid in error.

The committee is also tasked with recommending measures for preventing such irregularities in the future.

He urged members to approach the assignment with sincerity, merit, and the fear of Allah.

The committee is chaired by Hajiya Kubra Iman, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.

Other members include Abdulmalik I. Rogo and Auwalu Saminu Sagagi from the Local Government Payroll Standing Committee; Lamido Aminu from the Office of the Head of Service; and Nura A. Baba from the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Also on the team are Aminu Malamijo Abdullahi of SUBEB, Aliyu Sani Muhammad from the Office of the SSG, with Sulaiman Hodi Adamu and Sadiq Faruk Yola serving as secretary and co-secretary, respectively.

The committee has been given two weeks to submit its report.