Kano Commissioner Waiya Wins National Spokespersons Award for Crisis Communication

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has emerged winner in the Crisis Communication category at the prestigious National Spokespersons Awards 2026, organized by Image Merchant Promotion Limited in Abuja.

Speaking to journalists shortly after receiving the award, Waiya expressed gratitude to the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, dedicating the honor to him. “I won this award courtesy of his contribution. This is the first time someone from the North West has won this category, and I am delighted,” he said.

Despite not coming from a traditional media background, Waiya highlighted how his experience in civil society advocacy and communication strategies helped him excel in crisis management.

He explained that his approach involved strategic engagement with citizens, navigating the media ecosystem, and building strong relationships with stakeholders and practitioners across the state.

 

He noted that the award reflects the enabling environment created by Governor Yusuf, noting: “This is a testament that Kano State has an inclusive governor who ensures every sector receives attention and consideration. Without his support, we would not have attained this height.”Government

 

Waiya described the recognition as a milestone for Kano, adding that it validates the administration’s commitment to effective governance and communication. “I dedicated this award to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf as my mentor in politics, my principal, and the governor of Kano State. I uphold the confidence he has reposed in me,” he explained.

Kano Info Commissioner, Ibrahim Waiya, receives plaque from former NUJ President, Chris Isiguzo, as Awards Convener, Yusha’u Shuaibu, looks onAfricans & Diaspora

Delivering a keynote address at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, urged Nigerians to embrace effective and strategic communication skills in the fight against corruption.

He stressed that corruption is a pervasive global challenge, not confined to Nigeria, and requires innovative approaches to tackle.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Jurists Committee for the sixth edition of the National Spokespersons Awards, Professor Saudat Abdulbakiy, a communication scholar from the University of Ilorin, stated that the event goes beyond award presentations.

She described it as a platform for identifying and celebrating outstanding communicators who uphold ethics, professionalism, and credibility.

Professor Abdulbakiy disclosed that 171 individuals and corporate organizations were nominated, but only 19 entries qualified after meeting rigorous tests and basic requirements.

“Following a final review by the jurists, 15 winners emerged across different categories.”

She explained that the committee relied on the credibility, originality, and audience reach of each entry in determining the winners.

Urging the awardees to see the recognition as a call to greater service, she said: “This should not be seen as the end of the journey, but as motivation to do more in serving humanity.”

Earlier, in his opening remarks, the founder of the National Spokespersons Awards and Chief Executive Officer of Image Merchant Promotion Limited, Yusha’u Shuaibu, described this year’s edition as special, noting that it featured the unveiling of a new book titled “AI Crisis Communication in Nigeria.” He lauded all participants, awardees, and jurists for their contributions in making the event a success.Africans & Diaspora

In a vote of thanks, the Chairman of the 6th National Spokespersons Awards, Professor Sule Ya’u Sule, commended the participants and winners, stressing that the awardees had passed through rigorous tests and stages to authenticate their work.

He highlighted the achievements of the Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who won the Crisis Communication Award. Professor Sule noted that Waiya has introduced a series of reforms in the media and information sector of Kano State.

According to him, Comrade Waiya has consistently supported journalists through capacity-building initiatives, provision of smartphones, and other reforms aimed at strengthening the communication landscape in the state. “He has demonstrated his ability in crisis communication and has brought meaningful reforms to the sector,” Professor Sule remarked.

Name of Awardees and Categories  

– Author Scholar of the Year : Winner: Celestine Achi

– Crisis Communicator : Winner: Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya

– Crisis Communication Hub : Winner: NITDA Crisis Manager

– Digital Communication : Winner: Abdurrahman Ahmed Bundi

– Employee Relations : Winner: Office of the Accountant General of the Federation

– Event Management : Winner: NIPR Kaduna Centre

– Knowledge Hub Award: Winner: MAAUN

– Media Relationship Award : Winner: TETFUND – Abdulmumini Oniyangi

– PR Agency Award : Winner: Integrated Indigo

– Public Affairs : Winner: FRSC

– Spokesperson of the Year : Winner: Hakama Sidi Ali (CBN)

(Justice Watch News)

Former BON Chair Sa'a Ibrahim appointed to advertising offences tribunal

Former Chairperson of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), Hajiya Sa’a Ibrahim, has been appointed a member of Nigeria’s newly constituted Advertising Offences Tribunal inaugurated by the Federal Government to strengthen regulation and professionalism in the advertising and marketing communications industry.**

 

KANO FOCUS reports that the tribunal was inaugurated on Tuesday in Abuja by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who described its establishment as an important step towards promoting greater integrity and accountability in the advertising industry. 

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Hajiya Ibrahim, a professional advertising practitioner and the longest-serving Director-General of the Abubakar Rimi Television Corporation (ARTV), Kano, is among five members appointed to the tribunal, which is chaired by Justice Cecilia M. A. Olatoregun.

 

 

 

 

 

Other members are Musa Ahmed Attah, SAN; Merga Tyowanan Kachina, Esq.; and Dr Ken Onyeali Ikpe.

 

 

The inauguration followed the provisions of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) Act No. 23 of 2022, which expanded the council’s regulatory powers and provided for the establishment of the tribunal to adjudicate offences under the Act, advertising regulations and relevant codes. 

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Speaking at the inauguration, Mr Idris urged members of the tribunal to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, independence and fairness.

 

 

 

“Every matter that comes before you should be considered on its merits, without fear or favour, affection or ill will,” the minister said.

 

 

 

 

 

He charged the tribunal to maintain its impartiality and ensure that it was seen by stakeholders and the public as a fair and independent institution.

 

 

 

Mr Idris also assured the tribunal members of the continued support of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation for ARCON and efforts to develop a globally competitive advertising industry.

 

 

The Director-General of ARCON, Olalekan Fadolapo, described the inauguration as a major development in strengthening regulation and compliance within Nigeria’s advertising industry. 

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He said the establishment of the tribunal demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment not only to legislating on advertising but also to creating institutional structures for enforcing compliance.

 

 

 

“The Advertising Offences Tribunal is a big opportunity for the Nigerian advertising industry,” Mr Fadolapo said.

 

 

 

He described the tribunal as a proactive development that would contribute to greater professionalism and accountability in the sector.

 

 

 

 

 

**Tribunal pledges fairness**

 

 

 

The chairman of the tribunal, Justice Olatoregun, pledged that the panel would discharge its responsibilities with integrity, fairness and professionalism.

 

 

 

“It is a great honour to be called upon to serve our country, and we take this responsibility very seriously. You have asked us to work with integrity, and that is what we are going to do,” she said.

 

 

 

The inauguration was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Binyerem Ukaire; Director of Public Communication and National Orientation, Henshaw Ogubike; Director of Public Relations and Protocol, Suleiman Haruna; and other senior government officials.

 

 

 

The Federal Government said the tribunal was expected to contribute to a more responsible advertising industry that promotes creativity, earns public trust and upholds professional standards.

 

 

  

 

 

                           

              

                             

               

Gov. Yusuf Approves Salary Increase for Staff of Two Kano Universities

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the implementation of a new salary review for Academic and Non-Academic Staff of Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, and Northwest University, Kano.

The new increase in salary was adopted from the Federal Government’s new remuneration package implemented at the Federal Universities in Nigeria. 

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday.

The approval followed a report and recommendations of a committee constituted by the State Executive Council to examine and review requests by the two state-owned universities for the domestication of the new salary package.

Under the approved arrangement, the new remuneration package will take effect from January 2026, while payment will commence in September 2026.

The salary review will have a total financial implication of ₦391,847,555.24 monthly, amounting to ₦4,702,170,662.88 annually for the two universities.

For Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, the monthly financial implication is ₦228,195,210.83, comprising ₦141,082,223.37 for Academic Staff under the ASUU agreement and ₦87,112,987.46 for Non-Academic Staff under SSANU.

For Northwest University, Kano, the monthly implication is ₦163,652,344.41, comprising ₦112,238,985.30 for Academic Staff and ₦51,413,359.11 for Non-Academic Staff.

The government has approved the inclusion of ₦1,567,390,220.96 in the 2026 Supplementary Budget to cover payments from September to December 2026.

Similarly, arrears covering the period from January to August 2026, amounting to ₦3,134,780,441.92, will be provided for under the 2027 Budget.

The decision, according to the committee’s report, is aimed at ensuring industrial harmony and improving the welfare of staff of the two institutions, in line with the implementation of the new remuneration package in federal universities and other state-owned universities.

Governor Yusuf also approved the consideration of Visitation Panels for the two universities and other tertiary institutions in the state, as provided by relevant laws, to strengthen accountability, administration and effective management of the institutions.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and strengthening the quality of higher education as part of its broader investment in human capital development.

28 Arrested as Muhuyi Leads Drugs Crackdown

In a decisive operation to clamp down on drug-related criminality and protect communities, the Chairman of the Kano State Multi‑Joint Task Force on Drug Abuse and Other Related Crimes, Muhuyi Magaji, Esq., personally led operations on Friday, 07th August 2026 in Rimin Gado, headquarters of Rimin Gado Local Government Area, and Doka of Tofa Local Government, resulting in the arrest of 28 suspects, the dislodging of five drug joints and the recovery of a variety of illicit substances.

In a statement by the Secretary of the Committee, Dr Ibrahim Garba Muhammad, Muhuyi said the targeted actions were undertaken to demonstrate the Task Force’s impartial enforcement mandate and to send a clear message that no one is above the law. “We are treating every community equally and enforcing the law without bias. Our guiding principle is ‘Kano First,’ and we are determined to ensure a peaceful, prosperous and drug‑free state in line with the vision of His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf,” he stated.

He emphasized that beginning operations in his hometown is deliberate and symbolic. Sanitizing his own community is the first step in a wider campaign that will extend beyond the Kano metropolis to all 44 local government areas. The operation combined kinetic interventions to disrupt criminal activity with coordinated investigative follow‑up; investigations are ongoing and those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Task Force is pursuing a balanced approach that pairs enforcement with prevention and recovery. While kinetic measures continue to dismantle illicit networks, non‑kinetic efforts are being intensified through engagement with community leaders, regulatory bodies, health services and educational partners to raise awareness, strengthen supply‑chain controls and expand rehabilitative support for those affected by substance use.

Muhuyi was careful to note that lawful, legitimate businesses are not the target of these efforts; rather, the aim is to protect honest traders and create an environment in which businesses and communities can thrive free from the corrosive effects of drug trafficking and abuse.

Members of the public are urged to support ongoing operations by reporting suspicious activity or information relevant to drug trafficking and abuse. The Kano State Multi‑Joint Task Force on Drug Abuse and Other Related Crimes remains committed to sustaining momentum, upholding professional standards and safeguarding the health and security of all residents across the state.

Gov. Yusuf appreciates Emirs, Ulama, North-West governors for supporting Kano mass wedding

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has expressed appreciation to traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, North-West governors and other dignitaries for their contributions towards the success of the state’s mass wedding programme.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa on Saturday.

Governor Yusuf particularly acknowledged the Chairman of the Council of Emirs and the Emirs of Kano, Rano, Karaye and Gaya for their fatherly guidance, prayers and valuable contributions to the occasion.

He also appreciated the Ulama who travelled from different parts of the country to attend the ceremony, describing their prayers and guidance as important to the success of the programme.

The Governor commended his counterparts in the North-West, including Katsina State Governor Umar Dikko Radda, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi and Kebbi State Governor Dr. Nasir Idris, as well as their representatives, for honouring the occasion.

He equally appreciated the leadership and staff of the Kano State Hisbah Board under Commander-General Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa for their dedication and commitment to promoting moral values, peace and the wellbeing of communities.

Governor Yusuf also expressed gratitude to the business community, diplomatic corps, civil society organisations, development partners and other guests who attended or sent goodwill messages.

Gov. Yusuf urges 1,500 newlyweds to uphold patience, justice in marriage

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has urged the 1,500 couples who benefited from the state government’s mass wedding programme to build their homes on patience, justice, mutual respect and understanding.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governors spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa on Saturday.

The Governor made the call while addressing the newly married couples, reminding them that marriage is an act of ibadah and should therefore be conducted in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

He advised the couples to respect one another, uphold fairness in their homes and ensure peaceful coexistence, while also putting into practice the lessons they received during the pre-marital counselling sessions.

Governor Yusuf prayed for Allah’s blessings upon their marriages and for righteous children who would become beneficial to their families, society and humanity.

Gov. Yusuf provides food support for 1,500 newly married couples

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has pledged to provide food items and other essential commodities to the 1,500 couples who benefited from the state government’s mass wedding programme.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa on Saturday.

Governor Yusuf said the support is aimed at cushioning the hardship the newly married couples may encounter during the early days of their marriages.

He congratulated the couples for beginning a new chapter in their lives, urging them to regard marriage as an act of worship and conduct their matrimonial lives in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

The Governor advised the couples to be patient with one another, uphold justice and fairness, respect each other and live together in peace, harmony and mutual understanding.

He prayed for Allah’s blessings upon their marriages and for righteous children who would be beneficial to their families, society and humanity.

Dala LGA Donates Building as Operational Base to Multi-Joint Task Force

In a show of unified resolve against drug abuse and related crimes, Dala Local Government has donated a local government–owned building to serve temporarily as the operational base for the Multi-Joint Task Force on Drug Abuse and Related Crimes. The donation followed a courtesy visit by Hon. Surajo Maaji, Chairman of Dala Local Government, and the area’s security leadership to the Task Force Chairman, Barr. Muhuyi Magaji.

In a statement signed by the Secretary of the Committee, Dr Ibrahim Garba Muhammad, said leading the delegation of security agencies operating in Dala LGA and other stakeholders, Chairman Surajo Maaji described Barr. Muhuyi’s appointment by the state executive as “the right choice” and welcomed his past appointment as Chairman of the Kano Anti-Corruption Commission. Surajo called the role both a challenge and an opportunity, prayed for Muhuyi’s success, and reiterated Dala Local Government’s firm support, saying the council will “always come first” in backing the Task Force to achieve its mandate. On behalf of the Dala Local Government Council, he formally handed over the building to be used temporarily as the committee’s operational base.

In his remarks, Barr. Muhuyi Magaji expressed appreciation for the visit and the generous gesture by the Dala Local Government Council. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse, associated criminality, and the wave of mindless thuggery known as “Fadan Daba,” as articulated in the executive order issued by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf. 

Muhuyi pledged to pursue the fight “without fear or favor until the menace is defeated,” and promised to work closely with Dala LGA in the Task Force’s operations. He also called on other local government chairmen to join the fight with similar support and commitment.

The donation strengthens collaboration between local government leadership and security agencies as part of a coordinated statewide effort to restore safety, reduce drug-related harm, and dismantle criminal networks that threaten communities across Kano State.

Gov. Yusuf Enforces Traffic Regulations in Kano

…Issues a stern warning on compliance with traffic lights....

....Spends over one hour at Kofar Fanfo Junction to ensure compliance with traffic lights...

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Monday personally supervised traffic compliance at Kofar Fanfo Junction, where he spent over one hour ensuring motorists obeyed traffic light signals.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Tuesday.

The Governor was accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, commissioners, and other senior government officials during the exercise aimed at restoring discipline and order on Kano roads.

Governor Yusuf directed motorists, commercial drivers, tricycle operators, and pedestrians to strictly comply with traffic regulations, stressing that adherence to traffic lights is essential for safeguarding lives and property.

He announced that his administration is set to reposition the Kano Road Traffic Agency (KAROTA) to effectively function as a professional traffic management agency focused on the safety of road users.

The Governor said the agency would be strengthened to improve traffic control, enforce road regulations, and promote a culture of compliance across the state.

Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a safer, more orderly, and efficient transportation system for the benefit of all residents.

The Governor, who expressed displeasure over the recklessness of road users and their non-compliance with the newly installed traffic lights, said such multi-billion naira infrastructure should not be underutilized.

“Traffic offenders should be closely monitored and punished by the relevant authorities to ensure that the equipment is not relegated to merely a city decoration,” Gov. Yusuf warned.

Kano government delegation pays Condolence visit to Sultan over death of Sardaunan Sokoto

A delegation from the Kano State Government has paid a condolence visit to Sokoto State over the death of the Sardaunan Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesman, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Tuesday.

The delegation, led by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, H.E. Murtala Sule Garo, in the company of the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim; the Emir of Rano, HRH Muhammad Isa Umar; the State APC Chairman, Hon. Umar Haruna Doguwa; and the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji, among other senior government officials, visited the residence of the late Sardaunan Sokoto, where they delivered Governor Yusuf’s condolences to the family.

They were received by the deceased’s first son, Aminu Abubakar Alhaji, who appreciated the governor’s show of sympathy and solidarity.

The delegation also visited the Palace of the Sultan of Sokoto to convey Governor Yusuf’s condolences to His Eminence, Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.

The Sultan thanked Governor Yusuf for the thoughtful gesture, describing it as a reflection of the unity and enduring brotherhood among the people of Northern Nigeria.

The delegation later proceeded to the Sokoto State Government House, where they were received by the Deputy Governor and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

They conveyed Governor Yusuf’s sympathy to the government and people of Sokoto State over the loss.

Governor Yusuf prayed for Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the late Sardaunan Sokoto, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and comfort his family, the Sultanate Council, and the people of Sokoto.