Kano

By Uzair Adam

The Federal Ministry of Education on Monday launched an N8.5 billion public-private partnership (PPP) project aimed at transforming Federal Government College (FGC), Kano, into a National Centre of Excellence.

The project involves the development of 18 critical infrastructure and assets as well as the renovation of 15 additional facilities at the unity college.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held at the school premises, is part of the federal government’s efforts to address infrastructure deficits in public schools through collaboration with the private sector.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and represents a strategic effort to improve learning environments across federal institutions.

She said the project, valued at over N8 billion, would significantly improve the physical and academic landscape of the college.

According to her, the intervention will include the construction of facilities such as a skill acquisition and entrepreneurship centre, modern hostels, staff quarters, a health centre and other essential infrastructure, alongside the renovation of several academic and support facilities.

“The initiative is not just about infrastructure alone; it is about impact,” she said.

Professor Ahmad noted that the growing demand for quality education has placed pressure on existing facilities, making it necessary for the ministry to adopt innovative financing models such as PPP to bridge infrastructural gaps.

She added that the federal government oversees nearly 120 unity colleges across the country and cannot solely fund large-scale infrastructure projects in all of them.

“This PPP land-swap model demonstrates the federal government’s resolve to leverage private sector efficiency, ensure optimal use of public assets and deliver value for money,” she said.

The minister explained that the land designated for the project had remained undeveloped since the establishment of the college but would now be utilised to improve educational infrastructure.

She added that the transformation of FGC Kano was deliberate, noting that the institution plays a key role in promoting national unity, excellence and inclusivity.

Professor Ahmad also assured stakeholders that the ministry had put in place mechanisms to ensure transparency, accountability and proper oversight in the implementation of the project.

Representing the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Abduljabbar Muhammad Umar, expressed the state government’s support for the initiative.

He said the project would help optimise land assets that had remained unused for years while also creating value for the government and surrounding communities.

“We are delighted that for the first time the landed asset that has been lying fallow for years will be optimised in a way that properly captures the value of land in Kano State,” he said.

Umar also urged the project promoters to ensure effective stakeholder engagement in order to clearly communicate the benefits of the initiative.

“We call on the project promoter to provide quality infrastructure in a way that the project will serve as a reference point for other PPP projects across Nigeria,” he added.

Earlier, the Managing Director of Pluck Global Nigeria Limited, the private partner in the project, Musa Diktali, said the development reflects efforts to bridge infrastructure gaps in public institutions through collaboration between government and private investors.

He said the project, valued at over N8.5 billion, is expected to be completed within 18 months.

According to him, the PPP arrangement allows private investors to finance infrastructure projects while the government provides land as part of the partnership agreement.

“As you know, the government alone cannot fund infrastructure, so private investors need to come in and support the development of critical infrastructure,” he said.

He added that the project would benefit students of the college and other stakeholders in the education sector.

The event was attended by officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, representatives of the Kano State Government, school management, alumni members, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kano State Police Command has announced the discovery of a 16-year-old boy identified as Alex Ansol, who was found wandering in Dadin Kowa Village in Doguwa Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement issued by the command, the police said the teenager was located after a report was received concerning his situation.

According to the account provided by the boy, he arrived in Nigeria from Spain on March 30, 2026, alongside four relatives through the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. He explained that they were on their way to Kano to visit his father, Ansol Fan, when he became separated from them along the Jos to Saminaka road.

Police described Alex as a thin, dark-complexioned boy who speaks English and has no tribal marks. He reportedly gave his address as Barsa Rub, Opposite 46 Stadium, Spain.

The command stated that efforts are ongoing to trace his relatives and reunite him with his family.

Authorities have urged members of the public with useful information to reach out to the Office of the Police Public Relations Officer, Kano State Command, or contact the Divisional Police Officer of Doguwa Division via 07038363421.

By Anas Abbas

The Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin, has welcomed the defection of eight members of the House of Representatives from the New Nigeria Peoples Party to the All Progressives Congress, describing the move as strategic and significant for the party’s growth.

The lawmakers were formally received during a gathering attended by prominent political figures, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen; the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf; and the immediate past National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, among others.

The Speaker announced the defections during plenary, listing the lawmakers as: Aliyu Sani Madaki (Dala), Ghali Mustapha (Ajingi/Albasu/Gaya), Shehu Muhammad Bello (Fagge), Dankawu Idris (Kumbotso), Hussain Hassan Shehu (Nassarawa), Rabiu Yusuf (Sumaila/Takai), Muhammad Garba Chiroma (Gezawa/Gabasawa), Ibrahim Mohammed (Gwale), and Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe (Tofa/Dawakin-Tofa/Rimingado).

In a statement, Jibrin congratulated the defecting lawmakers, describing their decision as “bold and strategic.” He noted that their move would further strengthen the APC’s influence in Kano State and enhance the party’s commitment to good governance and effective representation.

According to him, the inclusion of the lawmakers whom he described as grassroots-oriented, experienced, and dedicated positions the APC to consolidate its leadership in the state ahead of future elections.

He expressed optimism that the party would achieve greater electoral success, emphasizing unity and collective efforts toward delivering dividends of democracy to the people.

By Uzair Adam

A former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections in Kano State, Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, has formally resigned from the party.

In a resignation letter dated March 29, 2026, addressed to the APC chairman in Gawuna Ward of Nassarawa Local Government Area, the former deputy governor said his decision to leave the ruling party was voluntary and personal.

“I hereby formally resign my membership from the All Progressives Congress (APC), effective March 29, 2026,” the letter partly read.

Gawuna expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunities he had during his time as a member, noting that he appreciated the support and platform provided to him throughout his political career.

The former deputy governor, however, did not reveal his next political move.

His resignation comes amid ongoing political realignments in Kano, where several key political actors are reportedly reviewing their alliances ahead of future electoral contests.

Sources close to the former deputy governor said he is expected to meet with former Kano governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Monday night at the latter’s residence on Miller Road in Kano.

By Anwar Usman

The former Kano State governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is set to join the African Democratic Congress, ADC, on Monday.

The Daily Reality reports that the planned defection follows series of consultations between Engr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, his Kwankwasiyya movement, and leaders of the ADC.

Recalled that, Kwankwaso had, in recent weeks, held a series of high-level engagements with ADC stakeholders and other opposition figures.

Last week, he met with party leaders and stakeholders in Kano State as part of the ongoing consultations.

It is evident that, he also held talks with key political figures, such as Naja’atu Muhammad, the ADC National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola; the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; and the senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson.

Reports has it that, the move is part of broader opposition realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, aimed at unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

The development comes after Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso and his political protégé, Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf parted ways.

Engr. Abba Yusuf, widely regarded as Kwankwaso’s political godson and a major beneficiary of the Kwankwasiyya movement, recently defected from the NNPP to the APC alongside several lawmakers and political appointees.

However, Kwankwaso, opposed the move and distanced himself from it, describing it as a betrayal.

By Uzair Adam

The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, has resigned from office following recent political developments in the state.

His resignation was announced on Friday in a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed.

The development comes after the Kano State House of Assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against Abdussalam earlier in the week.

In a related development, a Federal High Court sitting in Kano on Wednesday dismissed an application filed by the deputy governor seeking to stop the impeachment process.

According to the statement, the Kwankwasiyya Movement formally informed the public, the people of Kano State, and the nation about Abdussalam’s decision to step down from his position.

It explained that the resignation, although difficult, was taken in the interest of the people and to ensure stability in the governance of the state.

The statement noted that recent circumstances had limited the deputy governor’s ability to fully discharge the duties and responsibilities attached to his office, making it necessary to allow the position to function effectively for the benefit of the public.

It, however, stressed that the decision to resign should not be interpreted as an admission of the allegations levelled against him by the Kano State House of Assembly.

According to the movement, Abdussalam maintains his innocence and believes that his record in office and public service reflects his integrity and commitment to the people.

The statement further described the resignation as an act of statesmanship intended to preserve peace and prevent political tension that could affect governance and development in the state.

It added that Abdussalam would now focus on strengthening the Kwankwasiyya Movement, particularly by consolidating its structures and strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The movement also urged its supporters and residents of Kano State to remain calm, law-abiding, and committed to democratic values while assuring that further details would be communicated in due course.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A woman who was identified as Hafsatu Yusuf has passed away shortly after giving birth to five babies at a hospital in Kano.

The woman delivered the quintuplets at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, where she later passed away in the early hours of Thursday.

The Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Ministry of Health, Nabilusi Abubakar K/Na’isa, confirmed the incident. He said the death occurred around 2am at the facility.

He explained that the mother suffered severe bleeding after childbirth. Medical personnel made efforts to save her life, but the attempts did not succeed.

“She had been bleeding since after delivery, and all efforts by doctors to control the situation were unsuccessful,” he said.

K/Na’isa also disclosed that the deceased has been buried according to Islamic rites at her residence in Hotoro.

“We are appealing to the public to support the babies with milk and other essential items,” he said.

The five newborns, made up of three boys and two girls, are said to be in stable condition. They are still receiving care at the hospital.

The development came shortly after the Kano State Government had announced that it would take responsibility for the treatment of the mother and her babies following the successful delivery.

In an earlier statement, authorities said both the mother and the children were placed under special medical attention after birth.

The husband of the deceased, Salisu Nufi’u, had earlier thanked the state government for its intervention. He described the support as timely.

The state government has also restated its resolve to improve maternal and child healthcare, with a focus on reducing deaths linked to childbirth across the state.

A woman identified as Hafsatu Yusuf has given birth to five babies at Murtala Specialist Hospital in Kano.

Her husband, Malam Salisu Nafiu, confirmed the development. He said the quintuplets, made up of three boys and two girls, were delivered at about 2:00pm on Wednesday.

Nafiu, who works as a tricycle rider, thanked God for a successful delivery. He said both the mother and the babies were in stable condition. He also disclosed that the latest birth marks his wife’s ninth delivery.

He further explained that health workers at the hospital have continued to provide close medical care to the mother and the newborns to ensure their wellbeing.

In a related development, the Kano State Government has pledged to cover the medical expenses of the family.

The Public Relations Officer of the state Ministry of Health, Nabilusi Abubakar Kofar Na’isa, said the move forms part of efforts to improve maternal and child healthcare in the state. He noted that the government aims to reduce cases of maternal and infant deaths.

He added that the state remains committed to assisting vulnerable families and improving access to quality healthcare services.

By Uzair Adam

Gunmen have abducted the Secretary of Kibiya Local Government Area in Kano State after storming his residence in a late-night attack.

Chairman of the Councillors in the area, Hon. Sabo Yusuf Usman, confirmed the incident to the BBC, saying it occurred in the early hours of Friday in Dinya town.

According to him, the attackers struck at about 1:00 a.m. while the secretary was asleep.

He explained that the gunmen first woke the secretary’s son, who was sleeping in the outer compound, and forced him to knock on the door under the pretense of being unwell.

He said the boy told his father he had a stomach ache when asked what was wrong, prompting the secretary to open the door.

The gunmen then immediately carted away both the father and the son.

Usman added that the attackers later released the son and fled with the secretary before security operatives arrived at the scene.

Kibiya Local Government Area has not been widely associated with security threats in the past.

However, areas such as Tsanyawa and Shanono, which share a border with Katsina State, have experienced a series of bandit attacks in recent times.

By Shamwil (Justice)

It all began in Sabon Gari Market, Kano, inside our small but busy pharmaceutical shop, Kuka Medicals. That afternoon was bright and dusty, filled with the usual noise of traders calling out prices and customers bargaining for goods. 

I was behind the counter, arranging boxes of medicines, when she walked in, Christiana. I never imagined that moment would change the rest of my life. She was dressed simply, yet there was something about her that captured attention instantly. Her presence was calm, graceful, and confident. 

When our manager called me to write her sales invoice, I didn’t think much of it. But as I wrote her name on the receipt and looked up, our eyes met for the first time. A strange spark passed between us, silent yet powerful, one that words could never describe.

“What’s your name?” she asked softly. “Shamwil”, I answered. Her voice was clear and warm, the kind that stays in your mind long after you’ve heard it. I told her, and she repeated it slowly, as if she wanted to remember it forever. Then I asked for hers, and she said, “Christiana.” The name itself felt like poetry when she said it.

We spoke briefly about medicines, antibiotics, syrups, and how counterfeit drugs were becoming a problem in the market. I was amazed by how much she knew. She talked with the precision of a trained pharmacist, mentioning drug names, compositions, and even the companies that produced them. Our manager watched her with admiration, nodding in respect. That day, I realised she was not only beautiful but also incredibly brilliant.

When she finished shopping, she smiled, waved at me, and left. That simple wave stayed with me for days. Her scent lingered in the air, soft, pure, and unforgettable. That night, I found myself thinking about her voice and the calm expression in her eyes. I didn’t realise then, but a new chapter of my life had just begun.

Weeks passed before I heard from her again. One evening, my phone rang with an unknown number. I picked it up, and there it was, that same gentle voice. “You didn’t expect me to call, did you?” she said, laughing softly. That first call lasted for hours. From that day on, Christiana became a part of my daily life. We talked every day, laughed together, and shared stories that slowly tied our hearts closer. What began as a friendship soon turned into real, deep, and pure love.

Christiana was unlike anyone I had ever known. She had a beauty that didn’t depend on makeup and a confidence that didn’t need pride. Her skin was smooth and glowing, her height perfect, her movements graceful like flowing water. Her voice was calm and musical, and her pointed nose gave her face an angelic glow. Everything about her was elegant and natural. She was the kind of woman who didn’t need to try to be special; she simply was.

Our love grew stronger with each passing day. We called each other every morning and night, exchanged sweet messages, and dreamed about the future. Sometimes she visited me at the shop, bringing food or simply sitting beside me while we talked about life. Time always flew whenever she was around. She made everything around me feel peaceful and alive.

But love, as beautiful as it was, came with its battles. When her parents found out about us, their reaction was harsh and painful. To them, I was not good enough. I was a poor Hausa Muslim boy, and she was their only daughter, an Igbo Christian from a wealthy family. They couldn’t accept our love. They called her names, scolded her, and forbade her from seeing me again. Yet Christiana refused to give up. She told them love has no tribe, no religion, and no boundary. Her father stopped speaking to her for months, but she remained strong, fearless, and loyal.

Christiana’s love was the purest I’d ever known. She cared for me when I was sick, worried whenever I didn’t answer her calls, and even risked sneaking out at night just to see me for a few minutes. We would stroll quietly under the streetlights of Sabon Gari, talking about our dreams, the home we’d build, the children we’d raise, and the life we’d live together. I believed we had forever. I believed nothing could come between us. But life has a way of breaking even the strongest hearts. 

I never thought Christiana could die for my love. The news came like thunder in a clear sky. Death took her suddenly, without warning, without mercy. The moment I heard it, I felt something inside me collapse. The world went silent. My hands went cold. I couldn’t breathe. The love of my life was gone, just like that.

Even now, I can still hear her laughter in my mind, smell her perfume in the air, and see her smile in my dreams. Sometimes, I wake up in the middle of the night thinking she’s still alive, that she’ll call, that she’ll visit, that I’ll see her walk through the shop door again. But every morning reminds me that she is gone, forever.

Christiana didn’t just leave me; she took a part of me with her. She left behind love, memories, and silence, the kind of silence that breaks a man from the inside. Love can be the sweetest thing on earth, but it can also be the most painful. Christiana was both my blessing and my heartbreak. She was the light that entered my life, and the darkness that refused to leave when she passed away! 

I will never stop speaking and penning about you, Christiana. History will be so kind to you!  

Shamwil (Justice) wrote via ibrahimshamawilu@gmail.com.