Senator Rufai Hanga

By Uzair Adam Imam and Aisar Fagge

Senator Rufa’i Hanga, representing Kano Central, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to introducing developmental programmes that will positively impact the lives of the less privileged in his constituency.

Senator Hanga made this declaration during a press conference held on Sunday at his constituency office in Kano State, expressing his strong dedication to serving humanity despite facing health challenges.

He stated that his empowerment initiatives for over two thousand women and scholarships for Bayero University, Kano (BUK) and Kano State Polytechnic are just the tip of the iceberg. He emphasized his determination to undertake more impactful programmes through his 2024 constituency projects.

Despite battling illness since his appointment, Senator Hanga managed to achieve many programmes such as providing medical check-ups and free medication to the needy in their homes, sallah clothes for 2050 orphans, donating books to schools, securing jobs for some youths, thanks to his dedicated team.

Furthermore, Senator Hanga pledged to introduce a motion aimed at restoring the gradually eroded powers of traditional rulers and emirs in the state, as per the request of the Kano State Emirate Council.

According to Senator Hanga, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, has urged him to present a motion in the senate to restore the authority of traditional rulers in the state.

“I firmly believe in their significance. Therefore, they should be endowed with constitutional rights to carry out their traditional responsibilities, which have been integral to the system for years,” Senator Hanga stated.

He emphasized that traditional rulers often utilize their influence to maintain peace and address security challenges, not only at the state level but also nationwide.

Senator Hanga also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Kano state, particularly his supporters, who stood by him with prayers during his challenging times.

He remarked that he is thankful to God for his ongoing recovery.

By Mansur Hassan, PhD

Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, the esteemed representative of the Kano Central Senatorial Zone, has made an indelible mark on the political landscape with the construction of an unprecedented constituency office – a pioneering initiative in northern Nigeria.

As the Deputy Minority Whip in the red chamber, Senator Hanga recognizes the paramount importance of serving his constituents. Beyond the legislative responsibilities, he has demonstrated a commitment to actively listening to the needs of the people he represents, ensuring their voices are heard in the corridors of power.

The recently built largest constituency office stands as a testament to Senator Hanga’s dedication to fostering development and enhancing the lives of those he serves. This state-of-the-art facility not only symbolizes progress but also serves as a hub for engaging with the community, addressing concerns, and strategizing on impactful legislative initiatives.

What sets Senator Hanga apart is not just the physical structure of the constituency office, but the comprehensive vision he brings to his role. Alongside the office inauguration, he has unveiled plans to launch a series of developmental programs. These programs are poised to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the people in Kano Central, showcasing a holistic approach to representation.

In an era where effective governance requires more than just legislative prowess, Senator Rufa’i Hanga emerges as a beacon of leadership. His dedication to bridging the gap between the government and the grassroots is commendable and serves as an inspiration for other political leaders.

As we applaud Senator Hanga’s achievements, it is imperative to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of key figures like H.E. Abba Kabir Yusuf and Madugun Kwankwasiyya Senator Dr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso. Their collective commitment to the welfare of the people reinforces the idea that progress is a shared responsibility.

In conclusion, let us extend our well-wishes with a resounding “Long live Senator Rufai Sani Hanga!” May his leadership continue to illuminate the path toward a brighter and more prosperous future for the people of Kano Central Senatorial Zone.

Dr. Mansur Hassan is a Senior Lecturer, in the Department of Mathematics, Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano

By Uzair Adam Imam

Rufai Sani Hanga, the Kano Central senator, pledged to provide scholarships for students to study abroad.

The senator said the scholarship for the 200 students of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), which he paid recently, was just one of the many opportunities awaiting not only students but all women and youth in his constituency.

He added that he would try hard to ensure more investment in education and empowerment for women and youth for the betterment of society.

Hanga disclosed this Wednesday at an event that converged the 200 sponsored students of BUK in his office in Tokarawa, Hadejia Road, Kano, to receive their awarding letters.

It can be recalled that Senator Hanga had paid the registration fees of 200 BUK students as a response to the painful outcry by the students as a result of a hike in the registration fee.

I responded to the painful outcry of students – Hanga

Senator Hanga said his sponsorship of the 200 BUK students was a response to the uproar generated by the increment in registration fees by the university management.

He said he came to the rescue of the students due to a call by Malam Aisar Fagge, Malam Salihu Sule Khalid, Malam Abubakar Tijjani Ibrahim and Alhaji Musa Nuhu Yankaba.

“This (scholarship) is in response to the outcry generated by the registration fee increment in Bayero University, Kano, which threatens the progress of many students in the university.

He added, “Malam Aisar, Abubakar, Salihu and Alhaji Musa were the ones who called me and advised that I should come to the aid of these students. I really commend them and the other members of my scholarship committee.

“While I consider this a quick intervention, I want to stress that more programs that target the upliftment and empowerment of our people are on the pipeline, in sha Allah,” he added.

Hanga commended the scholarship committee, adding, “I wish to advise the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity.”

We tasked ourselves for this rescue mission considering the unfavourable economic situation in Nigeria

Malam Aisar who is also a lecturer at the Department of Mass Communication, Kano State Polytechnic said they were into this rescue mission because of the unfavourable economic situation in the country and understood many students could not afford to pay for their school fees.

He said, “I have been in the teaching profession and know very well how students struggle to pay 20 or 30 thousand naira as their registration fee.

“Some students mostly go to radio stations to beg people. So, given that now there was an increment in registration fees, I feared many would have no other option than to drop their studies.”

It gladdened me when my mother thanked me for selfless service to humanity – Aisar

The communication scholar also added that it excited him and nearly reduced him to tears when his mother called to thank him for his selfless service to humanity.

“Although I was very excited looking at the happy faces of these promising students, there was nothing more exciting than the moment when my mother called to thank me.

“My mother, Hajiya, was in a tricycle when she heard the other two passengers talking about the matter, thanking Senator Hanga for rescuing their children.”

Students narrate tribulations, thank Hanga

“I reckoned without a hike in the registration fee. When I heard about it, my mind was awfully heavy as I knew I couldn’t afford it,” recalled a 400-level student of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), with a beaming smile on his face.

The student said a new hope had been rekindled in him by the scholarship he got from Senator Rufai Sani Hanga.

Another student, Abdurrahman Kabir Yunus, said the news of the hike in registration fees paralysed him.

He said, “But Senator Hanga wiped up my tears. And what he did was a lesson to me as I really feel indebted.”

Sham’una Rabi’u from Warawa Local Government said it was underestimating to describe how happy he was.

Rabi’u said, “I am very happy to be one of the beneficiaries of this scholarship. I couldn’t thank Senator Hanga enough.”

Dear Sir,

As a concerned citizen from your senatorial district, I address you today with the utmost respect. You hold the unique distinction of being the first to represent the Kano senatorial district for a second term. However, it cannot be overlooked that your previous representation of the region fell short of expectations.

Despite the shortcomings, the good people of this region have rallied behind you. They have chosen to forgive your past mistakes and have granted you another chance to serve them. This presents you with a remarkable opportunity to accomplish two significant goals simultaneously.

It is imperative to reiterate that the people of this region will reward you based on your achievements. Two former governors have represented Kano senatorial district in the past. It is home to great political revolutionaries like Malam Aminu Kano and renowned figures in the world of business and economics, such as Aminu Dantata, Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Isyaku Rabiu, and countless other eminent technocrats. Representing this region is an arduous task that demands dedication and competence.

By providing effective representation, you can achieve the dual purpose of enhancing your political influence and better serving the people’s interests. It is crucial to recognise that your political success cannot solely rely on your godfather’s support; your achievements will serve as the yardstick by which your quality will be measured in the next election.

Kano Central belongs to all of us; now, the choice lies in your hands.

Yours sincerely,

Kamal Alkasim

Kano, Nigeria

Email: kamalalkasim17@gmail.com

By Mubarak Umar

With the Supreme Court Judgment that affirmed Senator Rufai Sani Hanga of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as the Senator-Elect, Kano Central Senatorial District, the people of Kano Central have reason to rejoice.

Kano Central is truly abuzz with excitement following the judgment, which Senator Hanga challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of Malam Ibrahim Shekarau as the winner of the February 25th, 2023 senatorial election in Kano Central.

This victory of Senator Hanga is a significant boost for the NNPP. It also demonstrates the importance of pursuing justice through the appropriate legal channels, rather than resorting to violence or other unlawful means. This is a win for democracy and the rule of law, and testament to his resilience and determination in fighting for his right.

I am delighted that Senator Hanga has been elected to represent Kano Central at the Upper Chamber. With his experience and dedication to public service, I believe he will be an effective advocate for his constituents and a valuable asset to the Nigerian government.

A graduate of Accountancy, one-time member of House of Representatives (1992-1993), senator who represented Kano Central from 2003-2007, chaired several committees including Chairman, Senate Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes; Chairman Senate Sub-Committee on Housing and Urban Development; Chairman Sub-Committee on Finance; Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Tourism and Culture; and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Special Duties.

These positions contributed to Senator Hanga’s deep understanding of the political and economic landscape of Nigeria. He has shown himself to be a skilled negotiator and collaborator, able to work effectively with others to achieve common goals. I believe that these qualities will serve him well as he navigates the complex issues facing Kano people, particularly his constituents.

Senator Hanga has demonstrated a strong commitment to the development of his community and the nation as a whole. His focus on issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure has been commendable, and I am confident that he will continue to work tirelessly to address these and other important challenges facing his constituents.

He is a politician with an impressive track record of public service, making him a valuable asset to any government. With years of experience working at various levels of government, Senator Hanga has developed a deep understanding of the political process, the needs of his constituents, and the challenges facing the country. His wealth of experience and expertise will undoubtedly prove invaluable in driving positive change and development initiatives in Kano Central.

Kano Central Senatorial District located in the northern part of Nigeria has fifteen local government areas, also known for its political and economic importance, it is the metropolitan commercial city of Kano, one of the largest cities in Nigeria.

One of the major reasons Kano Central needs good representations at Nigeria’s National Assembly is to ensure that the interests and needs of its people are adequately represented and addressed at the national level. This is important because the National Assembly is responsible for making laws that affect the entire country, and it is important that the laws made are fair and just for all Nigerians, including those in Kano Central. Now, the voices of Kano Central people will be heard and their needs will be addressed in the national discourse.

Senator Hanga’s representation at the National Assembly should ensure that Kano Central gets its fair share of the national resources. This includes funds for infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and other social amenities. With his effective representation, the district will not be left behind in terms of economic development, as policies that promote economic growth and development are made at the national level.

Furthermore, Kano Central is facing a number of challenges that require urgent attention from the National Assembly. These challenges include insecurity, unemployment, poverty, and lack of access to basic amenities like clean water and electricity. Effective representation at the National Assembly can help to address these challenges and improve the standard of living of the people of Kano Central.

The importance of good representation at Nigeria’s National Assembly cannot be overemphasized. The National Assembly is the highest legislative body in Nigeria, responsible for making laws that govern the country. As such, having good representation is crucial for the development of any district or constituency.

Kano Central is in dire need of infrastructure development. The district is home to several markets, industries, and transportation hubs, making it a hub of economic activity in the state. However, the lack of good roads, electricity, and other basic amenities is hindering economic growth. Good representation of Senator Hanga at the National Assembly should ensure that the district receives adequate funding for infrastructure development.

Kano Central is home to several tertiary institutions, including Bayero University, Kano State Polytechnic, and Yusuf Maitama Sule University. However, the education sector in the district needs significant improvement. His representation at the National Assembly should ensure that these institutions receive adequate funding to improve the quality of education and provide better facilities for students.

Kano Central is also in dire need of better healthcare facilities. The district is home to several hospitals and health centers, but most of them are understaffed and lack adequate medical equipment. Senator Hanga should ensure that the district receives adequate funding for healthcare facilities, as well as training and recruitment of medical personnel.

Kano Central has a high rate of unemployment, especially among the youth. Senator Hanga now has the opportunity to use all means of legislation that can attract foreign investors to the state and promote entrepreneurship, leading to job creation and economic growth.

Kano Central has experienced several security challenges in recent years, especially phone snatching, political thuggery, and burglary. Senator Hanga should ensure that the district receives adequate security funding to combat these challenges and maintain peace.

I am excited to see what Senator Hanga will accomplish during his time in office. With his dedication to public service, his commitment to his constituents, and his extensive knowledge of the Nigerian political landscape, I am confident that he will be a valuable and effective representative for Kano Central. I wish him all the best in his new role, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact he will have on the people of Kano and Nigeria as a whole.

Mubarak Umar writes from Kano State.