Nigeria

Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia

Throughout the week, discussions have arisen following the Christian Association of Nigeria’s (CAN) rejection of the closure of schools in some predominantly Muslim states in the North. In that context, I came across another article published by the Daily Trust on the same topic, written by a Muslim, or at least someone with a Muslim name; I cannot ascertain his faith.

This morning, I took some time away from assessing my students to read the articles. It is unfair to respond to a statement that one has not read. 

I read the press release by CAN a few times over, hoping I might find some wisdom. Unfortunately, I couldn’t. CAN is its usual self, apprehensive of anything Islamic out of fear of losing relevance. 

Christianity in Nigeria, as I often say, is merely surviving due to the presence of Islam. For instance, if Muslims were to cease going on hajj, all the Christian pilgrims’ boards, including the central one in Abuja, would naturally wither away. It is only when Muslims discuss Shariah that Christians recall the existence of Ecclesiastical law, which many of them know little about. The examples are numerous.

This time around, CAN understands that closing schools “for an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students”. What CAN has forgotten is that Nigerian schools have always been closed for the same “extended period” of at least one month since our colonial days for Christian festivals. In fact, the Nigerian school calendar is designed to close all schools for at least two weeks each for Easter and Christmas celebrations. 

The Christian holidays have been officially recognised and embedded in our school calendar in a so-called secular country. If CAN were concerned about religious balance, as they falsely claim, they would have advocated for the cancellation of the Christmas and Easter holidays and proposed something neutral.

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the signatory to the press release, wanted Nigerians to believe that the closure of schools during Ramadan would compromise the education of Christian children and devalue Christian communities in the North. This is an admission by the CAN President that the education of Nigerian Muslim children has always been compromised and that Nigerian Muslims have no value in Nigeria since their children are forced to remain out of schools for Christian festivals.

I am waiting for the CAN President and his team to go to court as they have threatened. What I would like to assure them is that Nigerian Muslims are now wiser. CAN hasn’t yet seen anything. All traces of Christianity as imposed on other Nigerians must be removed from our national life. It is just a matter of time.

The opening argument of the Daily Trust writer is that there is no single injunction in Islam mandating the closure of schools during Ramadan. I wish he would tell us where Islam mandates the closure of schools for Christmas and Easter. Islam is a complete way of life. Isn’t that what he is trying to argue? Does Islam not prevent us from blindly copying Jews and Christians?

From the beginning, Muslims have paid for the unity of the North and, indeed, Nigeria with their religion and, in some instances, their blood. This must stop at some point. If we are to remain united, then the rights of Muslims must be acknowledged and granted.

The people who colonised us were Christians. This explains why Christianity is ingrained in almost every aspect of our national life. Now that Muslims are expressing dissent, some people are calling for unity. A shared Northern identity? Yes. One Nigeria? Yes. One religion? No, we are Muslims and will not continue to accept the imposition of another religion upon us.

Finally, let me call on our Governors and, indeed, the Federal Government to embark on a comprehensive reform of our school system to align it with our values and beliefs. All neocolonial items should be removed.

Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia can be contacted via aujibia@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A notorious bandit leader known as Shekau, operating around the Narewo River bank in Kachia Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, was ambushed and killed by a rival faction led by bandit leader Shumo.

The attack, carried out on March 5, 2025, was in retaliation for a previous assault by Shekau, who had reportedly seized Shumo’s weapons and killed several of his fighters.

Intelligence sources revealed that Shekau and some of his lieutenants were killed during the ambush.

The deceased bandits were later buried by individuals identified as Yellow Million, Baba Kusa, and an imam from Kabode village in Kachia LGA.

While bandit activities in Kaduna have significantly decreased due to the non-kinetic efforts of the state government and security agencies, ongoing rivalries among bandit factions have intensified, leading to multiple casualties in recent times.

By Anwar Usman

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has called on judges to play a significant role in the fight against financial crimes and ensure that the nation’s legal system does not become a facilitator of illicit financial flows.

She made this call in Abuja during a sensitisation programme on anti-money laundering, combating the financing terrorism, and countering proliferation financing risk assessment for the Judiciary.

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the CJN, Tobi Soniyi.

According to the statement, the CJN reiterated the need for collaboration between the judiciary, lawyers, law enforcement, and anti-money laundering agencies to ensure Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force list of Jurisdictions Under Increased Monitoring, commonly referred to as the “Grey List.”

Kekere-Ekun stated that, “The success of any AML/CFT regime is based on the good rapport that exist among key stakeholders. The Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar Association, law enforcement agencies, anti-money laundering institutions, and financial regulators must work in concert to ensure a holistic and coordinated response to financial crimes.”

She further highlighted the negative impact of Nigeria’s continued presence on the Grey List, noting that it has imposed significant economic constraints, undermining investor confidence, financial transactions, and the broader economic outlook.

Kekere-Ekun expressed satisfaction with the workshop’s diverse participation, including key regulatory stakeholders, which she described as a reflection of the collective commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s AML/CFT framework.

On his part, the Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mrs. Gill Lever, reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in fighting against money laundering, noting that Nigeria loses over $16 billion annually as a result of money laundering.

By Samira Usman Adam

Politics is a game of interests, influence, and sometimes, survival. But above all, it is about leadership and leading people with wisdom, fairness, and strategic foresight. At this critical point in Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s political career, one thing is clear: his ability to build more friends than enemies will define his legacy far beyond his tenure in office.

Just recently, Ganduje received a vote of confidence from the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership, a significant gesture considering the turbulence surrounding his political journey. 

This is not just a lifeline; it is an opportunity he must seize to prove himself as more than just a money monger, as critics often describe him. If I were in his shoes, my approach would be simple: mend fences, consolidate power through unity, and rewrite my political narrative.

Power is Fleeting, but Influence Lasts

One of politicians’ biggest mistakes is believing that power alone is enough to sustain relevance. The reality, however, is that power is temporary, but influence, built through meaningful relationships, lasts far longer. 

Ganduje must realise that his current standing within the APC is not just about political loyalty but also about how he navigates relationships, particularly in Kano and at the national level.

If I were him, I would prioritise reconciling with those I have wronged, whether within the party, in Kano politics, or even in the opposition. Political grudges only create unnecessary enemies, and in a democracy, today’s enemy might be tomorrow’s ally. The greatest leaders recognise this and act accordingly.

Rewriting the Narrative: Beyond Money Politics

Ganduje’s name has been tarnished by allegations of corruption, with many reducing his political identity to financial controversies. Whether true or not, perception is powerful in politics. Now, with a renewed opportunity, he must take intentional steps to reshape how people perceive him.

If I were Ganduje, I would focus on key strategies:

 1. Promote issue-based politics: Shift away from financial influence and instead foster discussions on governance, policy, and party unity.

 2. Public Engagement and Transparency: Tackle concerns regarding governance and finances directly. The more open and accountable a leader seems, the more trust they can restore.

 3. Legacy Projects: Even beyond active governance, supporting meaningful initiatives in education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment can reshape how history remembers him.

Building Bridges for Political Survival

At this stage, every political move must be calculated with the future in mind. As a former governor, Ganduje still retains considerable influence in Kano politics, but influence without consolidation amounts to little. If I were in his position, I would engage in high-level bridge-building, both within the APC and beyond.

 • Reunite Factions Within APC Kano: The state remains politically divided, and without unity, APC’s strength in Kano could diminish.

 • Engage with Political Opponents: There is nothing undignified about reconciling with former rivals. In fact, it exemplifies true leadership.

 • Strengthen National Alliances: The political landscape is unpredictable, and having allies beyond Kano is crucial for long-term relevance.

Final Thoughts

The vote of confidence that Ganduje received is not merely a validation; it is an invitation to prove himself, to lead differently, and to transition from being perceived as a controversial figure to a respected statesman. 

If I were him, I would spend the next phase of my career doing exactly that: making more friends than enemies, consolidating my influence, and ensuring that my name, when written in history, is associated with strategy, leadership, and reconciliation rather than controversy.

This is the opportunity of a lifetime. Will he take it?

Samira Usman Adam wrote via sammyranoh@gmail.com.

By Rukayya Abubakar Othman

Commissioner of Education Engineer Lawan Abba Wakilbe continued his school supervision tour, visiting the Mafa, Dikwa, and Ngala Local Government Areas. He was accompanied by Bukar Sheriff Kime, Zonal Deputy Director of Monguno Zone, other educational board members, and the local education secretary. 

Engineer Wakilbe commenced his tour at Ngom Primary and Junior Secondary School, where he also visited Government Day Secondary School, Vocational Enterprise Institute, Central Primary, and Junior Day Secondary School in Mafa local government.

During the visit, the Commissioner expressed concern regarding the low student turnout and the high absenteeism among teachers, emphasising the necessity for immediate improvement.

Engineer Lawal Wakilbe, during his visit to Dikwa Government Day Secondary School, Shehu Sanda, Central, Kalaa Garu Primary, and Junior Day Secondary School, inspected the completed teachers’ quarters and the ongoing construction of the Higher Islamic School. 

During his visit to Dikwa, Engineer Lawan commended the attendance of teachers and students, and distributed learning materials and dignity kits to adolescent girls.

Commissioner Lawan Abba Wakilbe, on the second day of his visit to Gamboru, inspected Government Day Secondary School Gamboru, Gamboru Central, and Ndjamaina Primary and Junior Secondary School.

Engineer Wakilbe also inspected the Higher Islamic College Gamboru and Ladari Primary School. At Wulgo, heexamined the completed secondary school project, as well as the Primary and Junior Secondary School Wulgo.

The commissioner commented on the dedication of Ngala Education Secretary, Bulama Kole Bunu, and the Principal of Government Secondary School Gamboru, Mohammed Hamidu Talaki, during the distribution of learning materials and dignity kits to students.

This tour underscores the Borno State Government’s commitment to enhancing education quality and infrastructure across the state.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A report by the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership has revealed that Nigerian universities rank among the least transparent globally, with none of the surveyed institutions making their financial records publicly accessible.

The findings were presented on Wednesday, March 5, in Abuja during the launch of two research institutes under the Athena Centre—the Athena Dr. Arthur Nwankwo Institute for Education and Intellectual Freedom and the Athena Prof. Olikoye Ransom Institute for Health and Social Equity.

According to the Transparency Survey Report titled “A National Embarrassment: Reforming Transparency in Nigerian Universities to Unlock Global Funding and Restore Credibility,” the study examined 64 universities across the country.

It found that none of them published their budgets, audited financial statements, or visitation panel reports on their websites.

Additionally, the report indicated that no institution disclosed details of its internally generated revenue (IGR) or how such funds were utilized.

Requests for financial information under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act were either ignored or outrightly denied.

The event, which was attended by key figures including Dr. Angus Ikpe (representing the Minister of Health and Social Welfare), Dr. Ejeb A.U (representing the Minister of State for Education), former Senator Dino Melaye, and ex-Minister of Youth and Sports Bolaji Abdullahi, featured a keynote address by Osita Chidoka, the Chancellor of the Athena Centre.

Chidoka noted that financial secrecy remains a significant obstacle to the growth of Nigeria’s higher education sector.

“The time for excuses is over. Transparency is not optional—it’s the key to unlocking funding, restoring trust, and positioning Nigerian universities as credible players on the global stage.

“This culture of secrecy is driving away donors, blocking global partnerships, and starving our universities of much-needed funding.

“Global research consistently shows that transparent universities secure more research grants, partnerships, and international student enrollments.

“Universities should be role models of openness, accountability, and innovation, not fortresses of secrecy,” he stated.

Chidoka further noted that the Athena Centre, with the support of relevant stakeholders, plans to collaborate with the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other regulatory bodies to institutionalize transparency and governance reforms within the sector.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Senate has dismissed a petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, citing procedural irregularities.

The petition, which alleged sexual harassment, was declared “dead on arrival” by Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions.

Imasuen stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan breached Senate rules by signing the petition herself instead of having it endorsed by another individual.

He also noted that the issues raised were already in court.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was reported to have failed to appear before the committee during its scheduled session, which began nearly an hour late.

The matter was referred to the Ethics Committee two weeks ago after she publicly challenged Akpabio over seat allocation and repeated her allegations in a media interview.

The Senate has now tasked the Ethics Committee with further reviewing the case.

Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Chancellor of North-Eastern University, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, CFR, who is also the Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Traditional Rulers, recently hosted renowned investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

The visit followed Anas’ keynote address at an international conference on “Trends in Investigative Journalism” in Northern Nigeria, organized by North-Eastern University, Gombe, in collaboration with WikkiTimes and Ghana’s Tiger Eye Foundation.

The event brought together prominent voices in journalism to discuss the role of investigative reporting in promoting truth and development.

During his visit, Anas was warmly received by the Emir of Gombe, who also serves as the Chancellor of North-Eastern University, at his palace.

The Emir expressed pride in the university’s achievements, describing it as a hub of academic excellence and community development.

He praised the institution for offering practical courses that equip students with hands-on skills, stating, “North-Eastern University, Gombe, is a pride to Gombe and a beacon of innovation, creativity, and technology.”

Following the discussions, the Danlawan of Gombe, Dr. Sani Jauro, took Anas on a tour of the Gombe Emirate, where he explained the rich history of Gombe, particularly in agriculture and livestock farming.

Anas was impressed by the Emir’s collection of beautiful horses, cattle, and rams.

He commended the Emir’s leadership and vision, as well as the impact of the university, describing his visit as enlightening and inspiring.

Anas’ visit highlighted the growing importance of investigative journalism in driving societal change and the role of educational institutions in fostering innovation and development.

By Abubakar Ismail

I still remember a funny moment from our secondary school days. Our classmate was asked about his role model, but he misunderstood the question and replied, drifting. Everyone burst into laughter—he had thought it meant hobby. Anyway, we were all asked the same question by our English teacher. The only reason I still remember that day is that only my answer and his remain fresh in my memory.

Now, back to my answer. I wasn’t the first to be asked, so I had some time to consider my options. When it was finally my turn, I said: “Sheikh Ja’afar Mahmud Adam.” Everyone had to give a reason for their choice, and so did I—though I can’t fully recall my explanation. But that doesn’t matter. Because to this day, I have never regretted my answer, nor have I wished I had chosen someone else. In fact, with each passing day, I realize even more that I made the right choice. And there are a million reasons for that.

If I were to provide a short biography of him, that would have to be another time. However, I would like to recommend a great book I read about him, written by Sheikh Dr. Sani Umar Rijiyan Lemu. It was originally in Arabic, but Alhamdulillah, I recently learned that it has been translated into English. The title is My Days with the Generational Scholar—though I am not entirely sure about the exact English title.

What made him special?

One of the things that made Sheikh Ja’afar exceptional was his eloquence and mastery of language. He had the ability to explain even the most complex topics in the simplest and most concise manner—something his listeners can attest to. He was an outstanding commentator and translator of the Holy Qur’an.But that wasn’t all. He had an incredible ability to communicate with people from all levels of understanding.

His teaching methodology made it easy for everyone—regardless of age, educational background, or social class—to grasp his message.The Prophet (peace be upon him) said in an authentic hadith: “The best of you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”

Learning first, then teaching others. That is exactly what Sheikh Ja’afar dedicated his life to. His Tafseer remains a favorite for many. It was truly remarkable how, in mere seconds, he could navigate through the Qur’an, linking verses together, highlighting their meanings, and revealing connections that an average person might not see. This depth of knowledge was simply breathtaking. To me, this was his most remarkable trait—one in which he had no equal.”The Best of You is He Who Learns the Qur’an and Teaches It.”

Ask any teenager today when Malam Ja’afar passed away. I bet most wouldn’t know, and many might not even be aware that he is no longer alive. Even some adults might still feel as though he is present. I understand that feeling. He had already passed away before I got to know about him, yet what he left behind often makes me feel as though we will meet one day.

His legacy is alive. The rewards of his teachings (we hope) will continue reaching him for generations to come. Through his lessons, countless people—many yet to be born—will, in sha Allah, be guided. Despite my deep admiration for him, I know he is not inimitable. I, too, can learn the Qur’an—one page a week or more, according to my ability—and teach it to someone else. And so can you.

The Prophet’s words about the best among us being those who learn and teach the Qur’an were an open invitation—an invitation to all. If the Prophet didn’t exclude you, why should you exclude yourself? At the very least, teach your children or your younger siblings.A beneficial knowledge shared with someone is among the three things that continue to benefit a person even after they leave this world. I want that for myself, and I believe no reasonable person would reject such a noble pursuit.I hope to live to see a time when every Muslim sees it as an obligation—not a privilege for a select few—to be well-acquainted with the Qur’an.

May Allah forgive Sheikh Ja’afar and all our fellow Muslims who have passed on.

Ameen.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed that former Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), David Shikfu Parradang, passed away in a hotel in Abuja.

Josephine Adeh, the Command’s spokesperson, stated that Paradang died after receiving a female guest in his hotel room.

She dismissed circulating reports suggesting that the former NIS boss was kidnapped and killed.

According to Adeh, “On March 3, 2025, at approximately 12:00 PM, Mr. Parradang arrived at Joy House Hotel, Area 3 Junction, driving a black Mercedes Benz.”

“He checked into the hotel, paying a sum of Twenty two thousand naira (N22,000) for one night’s stay. Shortly thereafter, he directed the hotel room attendant to escort a female guest who had come to visit to his room.”

“This lady left the hotel premises around 04:00 PM of the same day.” She added that Paradang did not leave his room after the guest’s departure.

Around 4:00 AM on March 4, a military officer who was his friend visited the hotel out of concern for his welfare. The officer, alongside the hotel receptionist, found Paradang lifeless in a chair.

Adeh explained that the Durumi Police Station was informed, and officers quickly arrived at the scene, secured the area, and gathered evidence.

“The body has been transferred to the National Hospital for necessary procedures, and hotel staff are currently cooperating with Police investigations,” she said.

The police have urged the public to disregard false information regarding the circumstances of his death.