Northern Nigeria

By Muhsin Ibrahim

Kano-born historian Dr Abdullahi Hamisu Shehu has been awarded the 2023 African Studies Review/Cambridge University Press Award for Best Africa-Based Doctoral Dissertation at the 67th ASA Annual Meeting held in Chicago, United States of America, from December 12 to 14, 2024.

The recognition celebrates Dr Shehu’s groundbreaking research, titled “Procession, Pilgrimage, and Protest: A Historical Study of the Qadiriyya-Nasiriyya and Islamic Movement in Nigeria Public Religiosity in Northern Nigeria, 1952-2021.”

Dr Shehu, a faculty member at the Department of History, Bayero University, Kano, earned his PhD from Stellenbosch University in South Africa. His dissertation examines the dynamic interplay between public religiosity and identity formation in northern Nigeria, focusing on two key movements: the Qadiriyya-Nasiriyya, a reformed Sufi order, and the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), a Shia revivalist group.

His research explores the historical, social, and religious aspects of public demonstrations, such as the Maukibi (Sufi processions) and the Muzahara and Tattaki (Shia protests and symbolic journeys). According to Dr Shehu, these practices represent a unique contest for public space and visibility between competing religious identities in the post-colonial northern Nigerian landscape.

An accomplished scholar, Dr. Shehu is also a Fellow of the Next Generation Social Sciences in Africa (Social Science Research Council, New York) and a Lisa Maskell Fellow (Gerda Henkel Foundation, Germany). Over his career, he has participated in numerous academic conferences and workshops worldwide.

His work sheds new light on the role of public space in shaping religious identity and offers fresh perspectives on the sociopolitical complexities of northern Nigeria. Dr. Shehu’s achievement highlights his academic excellence and underscores the growing impact of African scholarship on global discourse.

By Uzair Adam

In a ground-breaking advancement for diabetes diagnostics, Nigeria-born Dr Fahad Usman, an Assistant Professor of Optical Engineering Technology in the United States, has introduced a highly sensitive optical biosensor capable of non-invasive diabetes screening.

Dr Usman’s pioneering work focuses on a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor that detects exhaled breath acetone, a key biomarker for diabetes. This innovative approach offers an alternative to traditional blood glucose tests, which are invasive and often painful.

Dr Usman’s research, published in top journals like Results in Physics and Polymers Journal, presents a novel ternary composite material made from polyaniline, chitosan, and reduced graphene oxide. With enhanced electrical conductivity and thermal stability, this material underpins the SPR biosensor, allowing it to detect acetone concentrations as low as 0.88 parts per billion. 

This collaboration with researchers from Malaysia, France, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S. addresses the global diabetes crisis. With over 537 million affected worldwide and projections of 783 million by 2045, this innovation promises a significant impact. According to the National Institutes of Health, over 37 million people in the U.S. are affected by diabetes. 

Due to its non-invasive nature, the optical sensor ensures greater accuracy, sensitivity, and reliability and enhances patient compliance. 

Dr Usman’s work represents a significant leap forward in healthcare innovation. It positions the U.S. at the forefront of global scientific advancements.

This technology offers potential beyond healthcare, with broader industrial applications in optical sensing and materials science.

By Salim Yunusa

The formal inscription of the annual Kano Durbar by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a welcome development to not just Kano but Nigeria as a whole. The nomination, adopted on the 6th of December, 2024, in Paraguay, at the 19th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, makes it the 8th element to be inscribed from Nigeria. UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that promotes peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.

According to many sources, the Kano durbar is the world’s largest procession of colourful horses. It has evolved with the history, religion, culture, and tradition of the Kano people over time. It is usually done to mark the Islamic holidays of Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Adha, among other special celebrations. While other similar durbars are carried across almost all Northern Nigerian cities such as Zaria, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe, Hadejia, Maiduguri and Sokoto, the Kano durbar stands out due to the sheer number of participants, tourists, spectators and days of celebrations.

This global recognition is a significant milestone, celebrating one of Nigeria’s most vibrant cultural festivals. Renowned for its majestic horse parades, traditional regalia, and music, the Kano Durbar reflects Northern Nigeria’s cultural pride and rich heritage. While the jubilations over this achievement are justified, it is essential to explore the opportunities and responsibilities that come with the UNESCO inscription.

 Beyond the celebrations, stakeholders must now prioritise preservation, promotion, and leveraging this global acknowledgement to foster tourism, break down stereotypes, and drive cultural and economic development in Kano and Northern Nigeria as a whole.

Kano—and Northern Nigeria as a whole—is a goldmine of culture and tradition preserved for ages, although these are currently under threat of extinction. The Dye Pits of Kofar Mata, founded in 1498 and spanning five centuries, are at risk of becoming extinct due to disrepair and unsustainable practices in recent times. The walled city of Kano is gradually disappearing to give way to commercial structures along the busy roads of Kano. There is a growing threat of climate change eroding sites like Dala Hills, Gidan Makama and others due to neglect. Sustainable protection and preservation of sites like this must be done for future generations.

This particular UNESCO inscription underscores the need to preserve the Kano Durbar for future generations through strategic documentation and archiving of the festival’s history, rites, and performances. High-quality visual content and written materials can help maintain its essence while creating accessible records for global audiences. This will effectively engage the youth, which is vital to ensure the tradition remains dynamic.

In addition, effective and efficient collaboration between the Kano Emirate council, non-governmental organisations (such as MACOBA, UNESCO, Global Shapers, etc.) and government agencies (NICO, Ministry of Arts and Culture, Tourism Development, etc.) is necessary to provide funding, technical support, and regulations that safeguard the festival’s cultural integrity.

In a state like Kano, boasting the highest population in the country and being the most populous in Northern Nigeria, the Kano Durbar has the potential to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural tourism, becoming a blueprint for other durbars across the region. To achieve this, a well-coordinated tourism strategy is essential. This could include partnering with airlines, hotels, and tour operators to create attractive travel packages for domestic and international tourists. Marketing campaigns highlighting the Durbar as a unique travel experience should be launched across social media platforms and international media outlets. Collaborations with influencers and travel bloggers can also amplify its appeal.

Furthermore, enhancing the visitor experience is key. Infrastructure around festival venues should be improved, with better roads, accommodations, and festival-specific amenities. Creating dedicated viewing platforms and cultural villages can also enrich the experience for attendees, making the Durbar more accessible and enjoyable.

Beyond cultural pride, the inscription opens doors for economic development. Investments in Durbar-themed merchandise, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts can generate revenue for local communities. E-commerce platforms can facilitate the sale of these items to a global audience.

Additionally, recognising the festival as an international heritage can attract global partnerships and funding for sustainable development initiatives in the region. Furthermore, technology offers endless possibilities to promote the Kano Durbar. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences can bring the Durbar to audiences unable to attend physically. Comprehensive online platforms can offer ticket sales, merchandise, and interactive content, ensuring year-round engagement with the festival. These digital initiatives can transform the Durbar from a localised event into a global cultural phenomenon.

Finally, the festival could serve as a hub for cultural exchange, inviting participants from other regions and countries to share their traditions and learn about the Durbar, fostering mutual respect and understanding. It could be so much more, with proper organisation and intention by the stakeholders involved.

The UNESCO inscription of the Kano Durbar is a momentous achievement that places the festival on the global stage. However, this recognition comes with responsibilities. By preserving its legacy, harnessing its tourism potential, and leveraging technology and cultural exchange, stakeholders can transform the Durbar into a beacon of Nigeria’s cultural excellence. Beyond the jubilations lies an opportunity to turn this acknowledgement into a catalyst for cultural pride, unity, and economic development. The time to act is now.

Salim Yunusa writes from Abuja, Nigeria and can be reached at syunusa@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

Armed police officers and operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) have cordoned off the Kano Emir’s Palace at Kofar Kudu, preventing entry and exit from the premises.  

The Daily Reality gathered that this development comes ahead of an anticipated escort by Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, who is expected to accompany the newly-appointed Wamban Kano, Munir Sanusi, to his district posting in Bichi.  

Several reports have indicated that the Bichi Emir’s Palace is also under heavy security presence, with armed operatives stationed around the area.  

Details of the situation remain sketchy at the moment, but more updates are expected as events unfold.

By Abubakar Hassan Muhammad BUK 

Kano State politics has been a subject of interest in Nigeria, especially since the Supreme Court judgment restored Abba Kabir Yusuf as the governor of Kano State. Yusuf, a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), had his election initially nullified by lower courts, but the Supreme Court unanimously upheld his victory in the March 2023 election.

The State has a rich history of leadership, dating back to the Kingdom of Kano, which existed from 1000 AD to 1349. The state’s capital and largest city, Kano, is Nigeria’s second most populous city after Lagos. The incumbent governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, was sworn in on 29 May 2023.

Kano State faces several challenges, including attacks by Islamist terrorist groups, inter-religious violence, and extreme poverty. The state operates under Sharia law within the legal framework of the Nigerian constitution. The Supreme Court’s decision to restore Yusuf as governor has received mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some praising the judgement and others expressing concerns.

The State has a diverse economy with a strong focus on industry, agriculture, and Islamic banking. The state is home to several large markets, including Kurmi Market and Kantin Kwari Market, which specialise in textiles and grains. Agriculture is also a significant sector, with crops such as millet, cowpeas, and sorghum being cultivated for local consumption.

Kano State politics are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the state’s rich history and cultural diversity. Under Governor Yusuf’s leadership, the state faces significant challenges and opportunities for growth and development. But he has been trying his best to overcome these challenges.

Abubakar Hassan Muhammad wrote via abubakarsadik2023@gmail.com.

By Maimuna Katuka Aliyu

In recent times, there has been a disturbing rise in violent crimes perpetrated by loved ones, friends, or neighbours, leaving families and communities devastated. These acts of violence often reveal psychopathic or sociopathic behaviour, underscoring the importance of understanding how to protect oneself from such individuals.

Understanding Sociopathy and Psychopathy

Antisocial personality disorder, commonly known as sociopathy, is a mental health condition where a person consistently disregards right and wrong and shows a lack of empathy toward others. People with this disorder are manipulative, deceitful, and indifferent to the harm they cause. They often engage in impulsive or violent behaviour, violate laws, and struggle with relationships and responsibilities.

Psychopaths are more calculated and egocentric. They lack conscience and empathy, and while they can follow social norms when they benefit them, they typically harbour deep-rooted criminal tendencies. Sociopaths, in contrast, are more volatile and prone to sudden outbursts of anger. While psychopaths can maintain a façade of normalcy, sociopaths struggle to control their emotions and often lead chaotic lives.

Challenges in Societal Protection

In Nigeria, where insecurity has become a significant issue, many citizens feel unsafe. The government’s inability to consistently enforce laws and protect its people has only heightened the risks. For instance, despite the Firearms Act prohibiting the possession of firearms without a license, many criminals are rarely held accountable. Terrorists and other violent offenders often walk free shortly after being arrested, eroding public trust in law enforcement.

One heartbreaking case is that of Christiana Idowu, a Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta student who was abducted and later killed despite her family paying the ransom. Her kidnapper was eventually apprehended after police traced the bank details used for the ransom payment. This tragic incident illustrates the chilling reality of unchecked violence in Nigerian society.

Elsewhere, in Atlanta, 14-year-old Colt Gray shot and killed two students and two teachers at his school, a crime linked to his experience with bullying and parental separation. Such incidents are stark reminders of how mental trauma if left untreated, can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Signs of Sociopathic and Psychopathic Behavior

It is crucial to recognise early signs of mental health issues that could lead to sociopathy or psychopathy. Common symptoms include:

– Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

– Withdrawal from social activities

– Extreme mood swings

– Difficulty concentrating or maintaining focus

– Lack of empathy or remorse

Sociopaths, specifically, tend to:

– Display impulsive, hot-headed behaviour

– Have violent outbursts

– Fail to maintain stable jobs or relationships

– Rationalize their harmful actions despite knowing they are wrong

Psychopaths, on the other hand, often:

– Exhibit cold-hearted, manipulative behaviour

– Maintain a “normal” life to cover up their criminal actions

– Lack of genuine emotional attachments, even in close relationships

Impact of Childhood Trauma

Childhood trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or bullying, significantly increases the risk of developing violent or antisocial behaviour. These experiences can disrupt emotional development, impair attachment to others, and lead to aggressive tendencies. If left unaddressed, childhood trauma can manifest in mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia, with potential long-term consequences.

How to Protect Yourself

Given the prevalence of sociopathic and psychopathic behaviour, it is essential to take precautions to safeguard yourself. Below are a few practical steps to consider:

1. Be Aware of Red Flags: Pay attention to signs of manipulation, dishonesty, or indifference to the feelings of others. Sociopaths and psychopaths often use charm to disguise their true intentions.

2. Set Clear Boundaries: Protect yourself by establishing firm personal boundaries. Do not allow people to guilt or manipulate you into actions or decisions you are uncomfortable with.

3. Keep Your Loved Ones Informed: Always share your location and movements with someone you trust. This simple step can go a long way in ensuring your safety and preventing unnecessary panic during emergencies.

4. Trust Your Instincts: If you feel offended by someone’s behaviour or a situation that makes you uncomfortable, trust your gut feelings and distance yourself from the individual or scenario.

5. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the tactics sociopaths and psychopaths use to exploit and manipulate others. The more you know, the better equipped you are to recognise and avoid their toxic influence.

6. Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with trusted friends and family members who can offer guidance and emotional support. A strong support system can provide a buffer against harmful individuals.

Conclusion

In a world where mental health challenges are becoming more apparent, understanding the traits of sociopaths and psychopaths is critical to self-preservation. By staying vigilant, setting clear boundaries, and cultivating supportive relationships, you can protect yourself from their harmful behaviour and ensure a safer, more fulfilling life.

Maimuna Katuka Aliyu wrote via munat815@gmail.com.

By Idris Mustapha

 The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed in a heart-wrenching report that Nigeria’s inflation rate climbed to an excruciating 33.88% in October 2024. The pain and suffering reflected in these official figures tell a story far more profound than mere economic indicators—they represent countless nights of parents going to bed hungry, having sacrificed their meals to feed their children.

The NBS’s latest report paints a devastating picture, showing a relentless climb from September’s already unbearable rate of 32.70%. “Looking at the movement,” the Bureau notes with clinical precision that contrasts sharply with the human suffering it represents, “the September 2024 headline inflation rate showed an increase of 0.55% compared to the August 2024 headline inflation rate.” Behind these sterile statistics lie the anguished faces of market women watching their businesses crumble.

The Bureau’s year-on-year analysis reveals an even more distressing reality, with October’s rate standing 6.55 percentage points higher than the 27.33% recorded in October 2023. The NBS report states, “This shows that the headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) increased in September 2024 when compared to the same month in the preceding year.” Each percentage point represents another burden on the shoulders of ordinary Nigerians, many of whom are already stretched to their breaking point.

The official data traces a cruel journey through 2024, from January’s troubling 29.90% to the current devastating peak. The NBS’s monthly tracking shows how “the rate of increase in the average price level is more than the rate of increase in the average price level” each month. Behind these technical terms lies the reality of young graduates seeing their dreams fade and elderly citizens finding their pensions increasingly worthless.

Perhaps most heartbreaking is the Bureau’s documentation of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) price surge, which the NBS directly links to the inflation crisis. This price hike, implemented in early September and again in October, has dealt a cruel blow to our society’s most vulnerable members. Families are forced to make impossible choices: buying food or medicine, paying school fees, or keeping their small businesses alive.

The statistical evidence presented by the NBS serves as an official testament to the widespread suffering. Markets that once bustled with life now echo the whispered concerns of traders and customers alike, haggling not for profit but for survival. The weight of this economic burden is visible in the tired eyes of parents who must explain to their children why they can no longer afford their favorite meals or school supplies.

As we look to the future, the NBS’s continuous monitoring of this crisis is a stark reminder of the urgent need for intervention. While the Bureau diligently records these devastating figures, real families make painful sacrifices to survive another day. The official data serves as a clarion call for immediate action, as each statistical update pushes more Nigerians below the poverty line, leaving deep scars that may take generations to heal.

The National Bureau of Statistics meticulously documents this crisis, which demands policy changes and a fundamental recognition of the human suffering it represents. Behind every percentage point increase lies a story of resilience: families supporting each other through unimaginable hardship, communities coming together to share what little they have. Yet, without significant intervention, these stories of resilience documented in the national statistics may soon turn into tales of despair as more Nigerians find themselves unable to cope with the relentless rise in the prices of basic necessities.

Idris Mustapha wrote via idrismustapha25@gmail.com.

By Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD

Passing bills in Nigeria (and apparently everywhere else) has a tradition of generating controversies. For instance, the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) endured decades of rejection before finally passing into law. When the Electoral Act 2022 was signed into law, the opposition went agog, crying to high heaven. Similarly, when the Social Media Bill was passed, it was seen as proof of a government obsession with suppressing dissent.

The reform that is now raising the dust is the Tax Reform Bills. Days after sending the bills to the national assembly, the nineteen governors of the northern states convened in Kaduna to oppose them, describing them as anti-North. The Federal Executive Council (FAC) also backed the northern governors. However, like the vigour with which subsidy removal was pursued, the president insisted on proceeding with the reform.

Northern governors fear amending VAT to a derivation-based model will diminish their states’ revenue contributions. Governor Yahya, the NGF chairperson, notes that companies remit VAT based on their headquarters, not where goods and services are consumed. Consequently, while MTN services consumed in Kano generate VAT for Lagos, Kano’s allocation decreases despite the consumption.

This reform is a dream come true for the state where the plants and industries are sited; unfortunately, for the state’s bottom rock in terms of industries, it is a crying face to them.

 While seeking redress to the proposed bill, it is also better to take charge; no more time is needed for the North to dust off all the moribund infrastructure, pass and implement industrial policies, continue with the uncompleted, and maintain the few industries in the region than now. 

There are plenty of them in Kano; notwithstanding Karota revenue, Abba Kabir Yusuf needs to rise to industrious revenues. Dangote’s Tomato processing industry is said not to be meeting expectations and optimism.

In Zamfara, a once peaceful and serene area, Dauda Lawal needs to recall all the companies aground and those existing only in paper, e.g., fertiliser plants by his predecessor Mutawalle. Apart from raising revenue, industrialisation benefits in Zamfara are numerous, combating even the insecurities that bedevil the state (through job opportunities in the long run).

In Kaduna, Uba Sani needs to continue with the Malam El-rufai’s exploit, maintaining and upgrading Olam Nigeria and a host of economic initiatives.

In Kebbi state, the comrade Dr. Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu needs to extend his widely recommended administration to continue the ongoing legacies of  Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, like the bioethanol mega plant, maintaining and promoting already established ones ( e.g., GB Food tomato processing plant and WACOT). 

Ironically, the southern states (especially the west), where the proposed bill is set to favour, are upping the ante. Lagos, for instance, is making unprecedented investments in energy generation.

The interest in remodelling the proposed Tax Reform Bills is not enough; it is a wake-up call for the North to raise the bar regarding regional industrialisation.

Bilyamin Abdulmumin, PhD, wrote via bilal4riid13@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has expressed strong opposition to the tax reform bills introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, cautioning that their implementation could significantly harm the northern region.

The controversial bills, which propose shifting the basis for Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution to the location of consumption, have sparked widespread resistance, particularly in the north. 

Key stakeholders, including northern governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum, have called for the withdrawal of the proposed legislation.

Speaking with BBC Hausa, Zulum criticized the rapid progress of the bills through the National Assembly, contrasting it with the protracted passage of other critical legislation, such as the Petroleum Industry Bill, which took nearly two decades to become law.

“We condemn these bills. They will set the north back and affect other regions, including some states in the South West like Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo,” Zulum said. 

“This is not mere opposition; it is about safeguarding our future. We urge President Tinubu to reconsider. 

“He received substantial support from the north during the election, and our interests must be protected.”

Zulum warned that the financial strain imposed by the reforms could make it difficult for many northern states to pay salaries, adding, “Even if we manage to pay, it won’t be sustainable in the following year.”

When asked if the bills would exacerbate poverty and insecurity in the north, the governor affirmed, “Yes, it will. This isn’t just about the north; even Lagos is concerned. If so many regions are against these bills, why push forward without careful consideration?”

Zulum also addressed speculation about lawmakers being influenced by lobbying or kickbacks. 

“There are rumours, but we cannot be sure. What we need is patriotism. We have children, grandchildren, and relatives in rural areas. We must avoid endorsing policies that would hinder their progress.”

While emphasizing that his stance is not an act of defiance against the federal government, Zulum maintained that it calls for a more thoughtful approach. 

“We supported and voted for President Tinubu, but these bills are not in our best interest. We are simply asking for a reconsideration to protect the future of our people and the nation at large.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Plateau State First Lady, Barr. Helen Caleb Mutfwang has stated that the Project 10 Million campaign is dedicated to screening and managing hypertension and diabetes mellitus in the state.

According to her, the project campaign represents a critical mission to improve the health and quality of life of the people of Plateau State. The state’s goal is to change lives, save lives, and work towards a healthier, stronger, and more vibrant Plateau. 

Barr. Helen explained that the initiative is about screening and increasing public awareness, gathering essential data, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to make health services more accessible across the states and federal capital territory.

The First Lady added that by working together, the state can implement effective communication and data management strategies to guide interventions and improve Nigeria’s health and well-being. 

Barr. (Mrs.) Mutfwang, who commended the Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum (NHCF) for spearheading and domesticating the campaign, acknowledged its impact on the health and quality of life of the citizens, adding that it has the primary objective of screening over 200,000 Plateau residents for hypertension and diabetes and the secondary objective of collecting data on the prevalence of non-communicable diseases to better the state health policy and planning, among others.

Speaking earlier was the State Commissioner of Health, Dr Cletus Bako Shurkuk, who said the Project 10 Million is a national project with the theme: “KNOW YOUR NUMBER, CONTROL YOUR NUMBER”, saying it is aimed at screening 10 million Nigerians for hypertension and diabetes mellitus, which marks a significant step in the fight against non-communicable Diseases.

According to him, the project aims to provide immediate counselling and referral, link newly diagnosed patients to treatment facilities, increase public awareness about hypertension and diabetes, and improve data collection.

Shurkuk explained that selected primary and secondary healthcare facilities would screen 200,000 people across the seventeen local government areas.

He appreciated Barr. Helen Caleb Mutfwang for accepting to flag off the program and also serve as an ambassador. He called on people to take the screening exercises to learn about their blood pressure and sugar levels.

In a closing remark, the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Mr Gayi Timothy Gayi, appreciated Barr. Helen Caleb Mutfwang, the government, and development partners, among others, for gracing the occasion, urging the people to avail themselves to know their health status.

The high point of the event was the decoration of the First Lady as an ambassador of the project and her screening to determine her blood pressure level.