Northern Nigeria

By Abubakar Aminu Ibrahim

Language is a powerful tool. It shapes how we think, communicate, and understand our beliefs. In the Islamic faith, words carry immense weight, for they are tied to sacred meanings and spiritual truths. This is why using the term “Qur’anic festival” to describe any event associated with the Qur’an is both misplaced and misleading. While the word “festival” may seem innocuous, its implications are incompatible with the spiritual essence of the Qur’an and the traditions it upholds.

A festival is often marked by joy, festivities, and entertainment. While it can sometimes carry religious undertones, its modern usage is predominantly cultural or secular. On the other hand, the Qur’an is a divine revelation—a book of guidance, wisdom, and moral discipline. It is meant to elevate the soul, inspire reflection, and connect individuals to their Creator. Associating the Qur’an with a “festival” risks reducing its sacredness to something casual, even trivial.

Consider the Islamic celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These are joyous occasions deeply rooted in worship, gratitude, and submission to Allah. Their joy is spiritual and reflective, not superficial. To call these occasions “festivals” would diminish their profound meanings. Similarly, attaching the word “festival” to the Qur’an creates a disconnect between its sacred purpose and the secular image that the term often evokes.

Moreover, using the term “Qur’anic festival” opens the door to misinterpretation. To the uninformed, it might conjure images of parades, loud music, or revelry—activities that Islam often cautions against when taken to excess. For instance, a Qur’anic recitation event might aim to deepen one’s connection to Allah, but labelling it a “festival” could unintentionally attract a crowd expecting entertainment rather than spiritual enlightenment. Precision in language is vital in Islamic traditions, and terms like “gathering” or “symposium” better preserve the solemnity of such occasions.

The Qur’an is not just a book; it is Allah’s final message to humanity, and its recitation, study, and understanding are acts of worship. To frame these sacred practices as part of a “festival” undermines the dignity of the Qur’an and the reverence Muslims owe to it. Imagine referring to a gathering for tahajjud (night prayers) or a Qur’anic competition as a “festival.” Such terminology strips the event of its spiritual depth and misrepresents its purpose.

It is also important to, with all sense of humility, caution scholars and traditional leaders against carelessly inventing new terms or traditions on a whim. If some have historically criticised the celebration of Maulud (the Prophet’s birthday) as an innovation, why then should the term “Qur’anic festival” be any less scrutinised? This is not to argue the correctness or incorrectness of the concept of Maulud, Qur’anic events or similar practices but to highlight the inconsistency in applying principles of linguistic and theological precision. The issue is, first and foremost, with the choice of the word “festival” attached to the Qur’an.

The Qur’an deserves words that uplift its message, preserve its sanctity, and reflect its divine status. It is a guidance for humanity, a light for those in darkness, and a connection to Allah that transcends worldly pleasures. Let us honour its dignity by rejecting terms that fail to encapsulate its sacred purpose.

Abubakar Aminu Ibrahim (AbuMuhd) can be reached via matazu247@gmail.com.

By Salisu Uba Kofarwambai

“Daba” comes from the Hausa term for a gathering place where people would sit and converse during their leisure time. Over time, the term took on a different connotation, referring to a spot where idle individuals would congregate, discuss, and plan their criminal activities, often fueled by drug addiction.

Historically, Hausa society had warriors known as Yan Tauri. These brave adventurers possessed magical powers and charms that made them nearly invincible in battle. They were also skilled hunters, often engaging in fierce competition over their prey. However, the Maitatsine crisis in the late 1970s to early 1980s marked a turning point for Yan Tauri. The crisis erupted when the followers of the heretic preacher Maitatsine clashed with the Nigerian government. 

Maitatsine, a Quranic teacher from Cameroon, had attracted a large following in Kano before beginning to preach against orthodox Islamic teachings. He started labelling people as infidels for merely watching TV or drinking tea with milk. When his son was killed at the street fight in Sabon Gari, Maitatsune started attacking people and killed many Kano residents.

The federal government refused to intervene, mainly due to party rivalry and Governor Abubakar Rimi’s criticism of the ruling party, NPN, and President Shehu Shagari. Thus, the Kano state government was left to handle the crisis on its own. The state government enlisted Yan Tauri’s help to combat the Maitatsine followers. Yan Tauri fought bravely, killing many followers, but this exposure to violence and bloodshed had a profound impact on them.

Following the Maitatsine crisis, Yan Tauri began to metamorphose into Yan Daba, a group notorious for their thuggery and violence. Politicians exploited Yan Daba for their gain, employing them as enforcers and thugs. During Governor Rimi’s tenure, the divide within the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) in Kano State further exacerbated the situation. The party split into two factions: the Santsi group, led by Governor Rimi, and the Tabo group, led by Malam Aminu Kano. Both factions employed Yan Daba thugs, leading to a deadly fight between the two groups.

Notorious Yan Daba members during this period included Gogarma, Mal Hadi, Gambo Cooperation, Sarki Change, Sabo Wakilin Tauri Mai Adashin Sara, Uba Dala Bala Turu, and many others. These thugs were known for their brutality and willingness to do whatever it took to achieve their objectives.

The reign of terror by Yan Daba continued until Major General Muhammadu Buhari came to power in 1983. Buhari’s administration cracked down on Yan Daba, arresting, killing, or forcing many of its members to flee Kano.

Then, in 1989, during General Ibrahim Babangida’s effort to transition Nigeria back to civilian governance, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the National Republican Convention (NRC) were established. These parties significantly influenced Nigeria’s move towards democracy. However, they also, perhaps unintentionally, aided the revival of Yan Daba in Kano as politicians continued to manipulate them for personal gains.

Yan Daba’s activities plagued Kano, with members engaging in robbery, assault, and other forms of violence. The emergence of notorious gangsters marked their reign of terror.

With the return of democratic rule in 1999, Yan Daba continued to pose a significant problem in Kano. Politicians continue to exploit them for their own gain, and their activities remain a major challenge for law enforcement agencies. Over time, Yan Daba has evolved, with many members now engaging in phone robbery and other forms of cybercrime.

Today, Yan Daba remains a challenge, with members engaging in various forms of criminal activity. Their history should be a cautionary tale about the dangers of exploiting violence and thuggery for political gain.

Salisu Uba Kofarwambai wrote from Kano via salisunews@gmail.com.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu,

The Harmattan season, marked by cold temperatures, dry air, and dusty winds, is a distinctive weather phenomenon in Nigeria. It brings relief from the relentless heat of the dry season but comes with challenges that affect health, agriculture, transportation, and the economy. This fascinating yet demanding season requires careful management to minimise its effects on individuals and communities.

Health Woes in Harmattan

Harmattan has a significant impact on public health. The dusty winds carry fine particles that irritate the respiratory system, causing a surge in asthma, pneumonia, and other respiratory ailments. Those with pre-existing conditions often experience aggravated symptoms, with children and the elderly being the most vulnerable.

Cold temperatures exacerbate the situation, aggravating conditions such as arthritis and causing widespread skin dryness, flaking, and cracking. Chapped lips and eye irritation are common, while the prevalence of colds, flu, and other viral infections increases as the body struggles to adjust to sudden temperature drops.

To address these health challenges, individuals are advised to:

Dress warmly, especially during the mornings and evenings.

Wear protective masks to minimise exposure to dust-laden air.

Moisturise regularly and stay hydrated to maintain skin health.

Health facilities should prepare adequately, stock essential medications, and run public education campaigns to help people stay safe.

Transportation in Crisis

Harmattan haze, thick with dust, reduces visibility and disrupts transportation. It increases the risk of road accidents and causes delays or cancellations of air travel. These disruptions have far-reaching economic implications, hindering logistics, delaying goods, and frustrating travellers and businesses.

Agriculture and Environmental Risks

For farmers, Harmattan is both a blessing and a curse. While the dry conditions benefit certain crops, they also heighten the risk of bushfires, which can devastate farmlands and forests and worsen food security concerns.

To mitigate these risks:

Farmers should adopt sustainable practices, such as cultivating cold-resistant crops and implementing irrigation systems.

Communities must engage in bushfire prevention by practising responsible land clearing and safely disposing of flammable materials.

Economic Pressures

The economic burden of Harmattan is heaviest on low-income households. The increased demand for warm clothing, blankets, and heating appliances often leads to price hikes. Due to the harsh weather, outdoor workers, such as farmers and street vendors, experience reduced productivity, which impacts their earnings.

To alleviate these challenges, governments and non-governmental organisations can:

Provide subsidised or free warm clothing and healthcare services.

Launch public awareness campaigns to educate people about coping strategies.

Navigating Harmattan’s Challenges

Harmattan is a paradoxical season of relief and struggle—a vivid reminder of nature’s duality. Its challenges across health, transportation, agriculture, and the economy demand resilience and adaptability. With proactive planning, community support, and individual vigilance, Nigerians can turn this season into an opportunity to strengthen preparedness for future seasonal changes.

Usman Muhammad Salihu is a fellow of PRNigeria. He sent this article via muhammadu5363@gmail.com.

By Anwar Usman

The Nigerian Immigration Service, Sokoto State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security as part of its efforts to tackle the security problems posed by the emergence of the Lakurawa sect.

On Monday in Sokoto, the state Comptroller of the NIS, Mr Yusuf Bage, announced this during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

Bage said the security problem posed by the Lakurawa sect is a new and evolving threat, especially in the state.

According to him, the Lakurawa sect members often enter the country through illegal routes.

”However, I want to assure the public that security agencies are ahead of them, and their activities will soon be curbed.”

He explained that one of the significant constitutional mandates of the NIS was to ensure effective border management, including oversight at airports and seaports.

To achieve this mandate, the NIS ensures proper identification of foreigners entering the country and closely monitors their movements and activities within communities.

He explains that the NIS had expanded its offices across the 23 local government areas to maintain visibility in all the state’s nooks and crannies.

He also highlighted the collaboration between the NIS, the Army, and other state security agencies to ensure the safety of citizens.

The comptroller also emphasized the importance of the media in supporting security efforts and pledged a mutual relationship between the NIS and journalists in the state.

The NUJ state Chairman, Mr Usman Binji, said the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the state council.

Binji reiterated the role of journalists in fostering collaboration with security agencies, stressing that the visit would reinvigorate the collaboration between the NIS and the NUJ to make Sokoto State safer.

He further stated that, “Our members are fully committed to supporting the security agencies in ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s territory.”

By Jamilu Magaji Ambursa

Barely two years after a new political era emerged in Nigeria, Kebbi State has witnessed a remarkable transformation under Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu). His administration has focused on infrastructural development and prioritised groundbreaking educational reforms, social empowerment and security enhancements. These pivotal changes have redefined the landscape of Kebbi State, positioning it as a model for progressive governance in the country.

Dr. Nasir Idris was declared the winner of the 2023 Kebbi State gubernatorial election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on April 17, 2023. Before becoming governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris had a distinguished career as a teacher, unionist and politician. He served as the National President of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) and Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). As governor, Kauran Gwandu has focused on various development projects, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare, social empowerment, security and agriculture.

To start with, there is no gainsaying that one of the cornerstones of Kauran Gwandu’s administration has been the extensive focus on infrastructural development. For the first time, Birnin Kebbi has taken its shape as the State capital, witnessing massive unprecedented infrastructural reforms. Major investments have been made in road networks, healthcare facilities, and public utilities, significantly improving access and quality of life for residents.

Notable projects include rehabilitating key highways connecting rural and satellite communities to urban centres, facilitating trade and boosting local economies. Additionally, constructing a modern Motor Park and completing an ultra-modern secretariat would stimulate local economies and provide a conducive atmosphere and access to state-of-the-art facilities for civil servants.

Meanwhile, as a seasoned educationist and labour leader, Kauran Gwandu has recognized the critical role of education in driving sustainable development. His administration has focused on upgrading educational infrastructure, providing training for teachers, and ensuring that schools are equipped with modern learning resources. Steps have been taken to enhance access to quality education for girls and disadvantaged youth, thereby striving for inclusivity. These measures aim to cultivate a new generation of skilled individuals capable of contributing to Kebbi State’s development.

It is evident that the focus on educational reforms has not only boosted enrollment figures but has also significantly enhanced student performance across various educational levels. Kauran Gwandu’s commitment to education showcases his belief that an educated population is crucial for the socio-economic progress of Kebbi State.

The emphasis on training and re-training teachers, a new law raising the retirement age for educators from 60 to 65 years and extending the service limit from 35 to 40 years, along with the recruitment of 2000 new teachers and the awarding of contracts for the construction of four mega schools, underscores this commitment.

Furthermore, another unique aspect of Kauran Gwandu’s administration has been his ability to maintain a harmonious relationship with past governors of Kebbi State. This collaborative spirit has fostered an environment of continuity and shared vision for development. The Governor has been able to leverage the experiences and insights on the forebears while working towards achieving common goals that benefit the entire state. This collaborative governance model has helped streamline various developmental projects and create a unified front for the progress of Kebbi State.

To corroborate this, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alh. Sa’ad Abubakar III in his address at the maiden edition of Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio Public Lecture, disclosed that the Sultanate has conferred on Kauran Gwandu the title of Gwarzon Daular Usmaniyya (Knight of the Caliphate) based on recognition of merit, selfless service to humanity and clear demonstration of ability to considerably embraced unity of purpose, fairness, equity and transparency in governance as preached by Sheikh Abdullahi Fodio. The Sultan commended Kauran Gwandu for uniting with all his predecessors for the common interest of the state, involving religious and traditional leaders in governance through consultations, and operating an all-inclusive government.

In the area of social welfare, the administration has placed a strong emphasis on the welfare of Kebbi State citizens. The Governor has initiated various social programs aimed at improving living conditions, particularly for marginalized groups and vulnerable populations. Through microfinance initiatives, skills acquisition programs, and direct aid, many individuals have been empowered to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, thereby reducing poverty levels in the state. The commitment to social welfare reflects a holistic approach to governance, ensuring that economic opportunities are accessible to all.

The healthcare and agricultural sectors have also received the needed impulse. The administration provided medical treatment to patients with mental health problems and related illnesses, renovated general hospitals, and increased entitlements of doctors and nurses. The distribution of palliatives, fertilizers, and solar-powered water pumps to farmers to improve agricultural productivity is also afresh to all discerning individual in the State. These are indelible marks for Kebbi State in the last 18 months. 

In an era where security concerns pose significant challenges across Nigeria, Kauran Gwandu has prioritised the safety of Kebbi State residents. The Governor has taken proactive steps to address the security challenges in the state, particularly in the southern parts. His approach has been both curative and proactive, focusing on strengthening security measures and addressing the root causes of insecurity.

This administration has worked closely with security agencies to implement strategies that address crime and communal conflicts, fostering a safer environment in the State. The unprecedented support given to security agencies, enhanced policing initiatives, and regular security forums has heightened vigilance and encouraged public participation in maintaining peace and order. As a result, the state has seen a reduction in criminal activities, allowing citizens to go about their daily lives with greater peace of mind.

To conclude, let me reiterate that Kauran Gwandu’s transformative leadership has laid a solid foundation for the advancement of Kebbi State. As his administration continues to work towards building a better future for all, Kebbi State stands as a testament to the significant impact of dedicated and visionary governance.

Kauran Gwandu has demonstrated his inclusivity as a driver of a mass socio-political movement and architect of modern-day Kebbi State. He turned the state into an infrastructure development site and remodelled and redefined the political landscape. Therefore, it behoves every well-meaning citizen to support his administration in its determination to deliver democratic dividends to all in the State.

Jamilu Magaji, a public affairs analyst in Birnin Kebbi, can be reached via mjmagaji@gmail.com.

By Saifullahi Attahir

In 1984, during the second term of former US President Bill Clinton as Governor of Arkansas, he was alarmed by a damning report on the decline in educational standards in the state. He, therefore, constituted a committee headed by his wife, Hillary Clinton, to go around the state and come up with resolutions on how to rescue the State Educational sector.

He introduced robust proposals, including more time for academic work, mobilising more funds, increasing the school year, special opportunities for gifted children, a maximum class size of twenty pupils up to third grade, and more recruitment of Mathematics, History, and Science teachers.

The most controversial proposal required all teachers and administrators to take and pass the National Teacher Examination. Even in the US, this proposal was met with backlash from interest groups and misinformed teachers that the governor was trying to hijack their means of livelihood. But in reality, there is no way that a reform in education can be successfully achieved without looking at the guardians of that knowledge.

 Teachers are the backbone of any school. No matter how beautiful the school building, how few students per class, or how good the curriculum, if the person imparting the knowledge is not well-prepared, problems will continue to arise.

In President Bill Clinton’s case, he recommended that teachers who failed be given free tuition to take regular courses and be able to take the test as many times as possible until certified to be able to teach.

This same scenario occurred during the tenure of two visionary governors in northern Nigeria. Former Jigawa State Governor Alhaji Sule Lamido used the same strategy to improve the state’s education, which was then on life support. I can count the number of primary school teachers I knew who were allowed to return to the College of Education (COE) Gumel to obtain an NCE Certificate fully funded by the state.

In the case of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir Elrufa’i, we can remember the giant effort he tried to impose to rescue the educational sector in Kaduna. This included a massive purge of school teachers who could not pass their Aptitude test. The former governor was met with a heavy force of resentment and protest, including a mass media campaign in which he was simply trying to retrench workers from their source of livelihood.

These three cases were almost similar, although different States, different personalities, at different times, and nearly different approaches. But history will judge…

Saifullahi Attahir wrote via saifullahiattahir93@gmail.com.

By Khadijat Ogido 

Educating girls is one of the most powerful tools for creating a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous society. Girls are provided with diverse basic knowledge, skills, and training contributing to national development. An educated child can only grow through a literate woman who has a greater chance of breaking the cycle of social vices by passing good knowledge to her daughter.

There is an adage that says, “Educate a man, you educate an individual, but educate a woman, you educate a Nation.”This adage summarises the essence of education to the girl child.

Investing in girls’ education transforms communities, countries, and the world. Girls who receive an education are less likely to marry young and more likely to lead healthy, productive lives. They earn higher incomes, participate in the decisions that most affect them, and build better futures for themselves and their families.

Girls’ education strengthens economies and reduces inequality. It contributes to more stable, resilient societies that allow all individuals – including boys and men –to fulfil their potential.

However, education for girls is about more than having access to school. It’s also about girls feeling safe in classrooms and supported in the subjects and careers they pursue—including those in which they are often underrepresented.

A girl is described as a female child between infancy and early adulthood. During this period of the development of the girl child, she is under the custody and supervision of adults who may be her parents or guardians and siblings who are older and more mature than she is.

According to the United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Research has shown that millions of girls do not have access to school despite concerted efforts to promote the cause. Okeke, Nzewi, and Njoku (2008) identified child labour, poverty and lack of sponsorship, the quest for wealth, bereavement, truancy, broken homes, and engagement of children as househelps as factors that clog the wheel of children’s access to education.

According to UNESCO estimates, 129 million girls worldwide are out of school, including 32 million of primary school age, 30 million of lower-secondary school age, and 67 million of upper-secondary school age. In countries affected by conflict, girls are more than twice as likely to be out of school as girls living in non-affected countries.

Most factors that militate against the girl-child access to education are socio-cultural. Many countries on the African continent rank among the poorest in the world. The ongoing HIV/AIDS epidemics, over-crowding in cities, tribal warfare and despotic governments have contributed to the degeneration of the beautiful African land into a human rights catastrophe. At the centre of the devastating situation is the girl-child. 

The girl-children appear to be the most vulnerable and most undervalued members of the society. In a region where many are struggling to get enough food and to stay alive, remain out of reach of the various violent rebel armies, and care for those stricken with various diseases, a basic education, especially for girl children, is low on the list of priorities. The right to education, which is a fundamental human right, is frequently denied to girls in some African countries.

The then United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, stated that in Africa when families have to choose between educating a girl and a boy due to limited resources, the boy is always selected to attend school. 

In Africa, many girls are prevented from getting the education they are entitled to because families often send their daughters to work at a young age to earn additional income beyond the subsistence level and finance the education of their sons.

 It has been reported in BBC News (2006) that the African patriarchal societal viewpoint favours boys over girls because boys maintain the family lineage. Additional reasons why girls do not have adequate access to education in Africa include the fact that many have to stay home to nurse relatives with HIV/AIDS. Their mothers were uneducated, which is another reason they feel their daughters do not need education. Furthermore, some families do not believe in the education of girls. 

Many women who made it in life today also contributed immensely to the country’s growth and served as role models to the girl-child. Women like Funmilayo Ransome Kuti, Margaret Ekpo, Grace Alele Williams, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Flora Nwanpa, Onyeka Onwenu, etc. These women couldn’t have achieved it without a good education and were given the opportunity because it’s their right.

Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist, said, “Let us remember: one book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.”

Educating the girl child is not just about attending school to acquire knowledge. It also serves as a weapon and a guide on how to shape her life and to break the barrier of a girl child not having the right to education.

Michelle Obama said, “When women are educated, their countries become stronger and more prosperous. Investing in a girl child’s education is not just a moral imperative; it is an essential strategy for achieving sustainable development and a better world for everyone.

Khadijat Ogido wrote via ogidokhadijat82@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

The China Development Bank (CDB) has approved a €245 million ($254.76 million) loan to fund the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria.  

In a statement released on its official website on Tuesday, the bank confirmed that the financial package is intended to ensure the smooth continuation of the railway’s construction. 

The statement read, “China Development Bank has recently granted a loan of €245 million ($254.76 million) to the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria, providing financial support for the smooth progress of the project.”  

The 203-kilometre standard-gauge railway line will connect Kano, a major commercial hub in northern Nigeria, to the federal capital, Abuja. 

Once completed, the railway will enhance regional connectivity, offering residents a safer and more efficient mode of transportation.  

In addition to improving mobility, the project is expected to drive economic growth by promoting industrial development along its corridor. 

It will also generate significant employment opportunities during its construction and subsequent operations.  

The Kano-Kaduna railway is recognized as a key cooperation project under the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. Construction is being executed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, with financing from the CDB.  

Previously, the project was slated for funding by the China Exim Bank, which later withdrew its financial commitment. The CDB subsequently stepped in as the new financier.  

The bank reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating closely with the Nigerian government to ensure timely disbursement of funds and effective management of subsequent project phases.  

“Going forward, [the CDB] will closely coordinate with Nigerian partners to ensure the smooth disbursement of subsequent loans and effective post-loan management,” the statement added.  

President Bola Tinubu had earlier assured Nigerians that the broader Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano railway project would be completed satisfactorily. 

The Federal Government has allocated N44.4 billion this year to complete the Abuja-Kaduna Railway project, the Lagos-Ibadan railway, and other rail infrastructure initiatives.  

Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi, is expected in Abuja on Wednesday for an official visit. 

During his stay, Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China, will engage in discussions to further strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and China.

By Uzair Adam

The Borno State Executive Council has approved the renaming of Borno State University (BOSU) to Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, in honour of Sir Kashim Ibrahim, the first Governor of Northern Nigeria.  

The decision was made during the council’s first meeting of 2025, presided over by Governor Babagana Zulum in Maiduguri.  

Addressing journalists, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, stated that the renaming would take effect following legislative amendments and notifications to regulatory bodies.  

“The council has approved that Borno State University be renamed Kashim Ibrahim University. 

“This decision is subject to the legislative processes by the State Assembly to amend the law establishing the university and actions by the Ministry of Education to inform relevant bodies such as the NUC and JAMB,” Prof. Tar explained.  

The council also approved a comprehensive programme for street naming and house numbering across Maiduguri and other urban areas as part of ongoing urban renewal efforts. 

The initiative will involve collaboration with traditional rulers and federal agencies like the Nigerian Postal Service.  

“Relevant MDAs will work with stakeholders to develop a naming and numbering template. This will ensure that updated names and numbers are reflected on platforms like Google Maps and public records to enhance urban planning and governance,” Prof. Tar added.  

During the meeting, Governor Zulum expressed appreciation for the council members’ commitment and outlined plans for intensified recovery efforts and impactful projects in 2025.  

“In 2024, my administration achieved significant progress, and I am committed to accomplishing even more this year. Our focus will remain on post-conflict recovery, urban renewal, and improving citizens’ welfare,” Zulum said.  

The meeting also featured a valedictory session honouring the outgoing Head of Service, Barrister Malam Fannami, who is set to retire later this month. The council commended his dedication and contributions to the state’s development.

By Sulaiman Abdullahi

To expand educational access for young Nigerians, Deputy Senate President Senator Barau I. Jibrin has launched a domestic scholarship program funding 300 Master’s degree students at leading Nigerian universities.

This initiative comes just a week after the Barau I Jibrin Foundation (BIJF) facilitated the departure of 70 students for postgraduate studies in India. The beneficiaries, drawn from the three senatorial districts of Kano State, left via Malam Aminu Kano International Airport on December 29, 2024.

Through the BIJF, applications have now been opened for the “Postgraduate Domestic Scholarships for the 2025/2026 Academic Session,” targeting outstanding graduates from Kano State.

Speaking on the program, Maikudi Lawan, PhD, Secretary of the BIJF Postgraduate Scholarship Committee, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to fostering academic growth and human capital development in fields critical to Nigeria’s future.

“This initiative offers a unique platform for academic excellence, research, and innovation in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cyber Security, Data Science, Mineral Exploration, Climate Change Management, and many others,” Dr. Lawan said.

Six prestigious universities have been selected for the program: Bayero University Kano, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, and the University of Nigeria Nsukka.

Ismail Mudashir, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Senator Barau, described the scholarship as part of the senator’s broader vision for human capital development in Kano State and beyond.

“Senator Barau is passionate about empowering the next generation of leaders through education. This program underscores his unwavering commitment to academic excellence and national development,” Mudashir said.

The announcement has been met with widespread commendation, with many viewing the initiative as a game-changer for graduates in Kano State seeking advanced education opportunities.

Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the foundation’s portal for more information and to submit their applications promptly.