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A fresh wave of controversy is sweeping through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) as mounting allegations implicate the Commissioner of Operations, Anofi Elegushi, in what insiders describe as a brazen disregard for civil service rules, Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s explicit directive, and growing tendencies of nepotism and impunity. Multiple senior staff who spoke to this newspaper, fearing reprisals, disclosed that Mr. Elegushi has continued to retain a retired NAHCON official, Mr. Gaffar, who left the service in 2023. Despite having no legal standing within the commission, the retired officer allegedly maintains unrestricted access to official operations and enjoys privileges befitting a serving staff. “He has no portfolio, no official role, yet he attends meetings, travels with the commissioner, and even maintains offices in both Abuja and Saudi Arabia,” one source lamented. “This is a clear violation of the Public Service Rules, and staff confidence i...

His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President, Federal Republic of Nigeria State House, Abuja Your Excellency, I write as a concerned citizen and Muslim who cares deeply about the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims and the reputation of our country. I respectfully urge you to review the current supervisory arrangement of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and return its day to day supervision to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), while keeping it firmly under the Presidency as required by law. This request is about efficiency, productivity, accountability, and the long term stability of Hajj administration in Nigeria. 1. Brief history of Hajj management in Nigeria 1. In 1953, Alhaji Abubakar Imam moved a motion in the Northern House of Assembly for a Nigerian pilgrims office in Jeddah, to protect pilgrims who were facing hardship in Saudi Arabia.  2. Regional Pilgrims Welfare Boards emerged from 1958 in Western Re...

Former NBA star and one of the long-time pillars of of Nigerian basketball, Olumide Oyedeji, praised Lagos Legends for their dramatic 74–72 victory over Rivers Hoopers on Sunday. A win that delivered the franchise its first-ever NBBF Premier League title and a prized ticket to the 2026 Basketball Africa League (BAL). Oyedeji, the proprietor of Hoops N’ Read and a respected NBBF board member, described the victory as “a new chapter” for the domestic league, insisting that Legends’ rise is proof that Nigerian clubs can hit continental standards with the right planning and discipline. “Your victory is the result of hard work, and other teams should learn from the way Lagos Legends went about their business,” Oyedeji said, urging the champions to begin early preparation for the enormous challenge the BAL presents. While his own Hoops N’ Read side did not reach the Final Four this season, bowing out in the Final Eight, Oyedeji remained fully invested in the league’s growth. ...

The Emir of Rano, Ambassador Dr. Muhammad Isa Umaru has pledged to support Maryam Idris  Umar College of Education aimed at boosting education in the emirate, and statewide. The Emir made the pledge while receiving the management, staff and students of the college led by the proprietor and provost of the institution, Alhaji Sani Jogana and Hajiya Bilkisu Abdullahi Turaki who paid him a courtesy visit at his palace. A statement signed by the college's head of public relations department , Ado Salisu, said the emir described education as a backbone of every development especially at this critical period. Ambassador Dr Muhammad Isa Umaru assured the leadership of the college that the emirate will do everything possible to support it with a view to actualize it's objectives. While expressing gratitude to the college management for the visit, he urged them to sustain the tempo for the overall development of education in the state and beyond. Ear...

When justice is delayed, it ceases to be justice. Equity demands that justice must not only be done, but done in good time. Time, in many respects, is the currency that gives justice its meaning. The prolonged delay in the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) undermines these principles of natural justice and equity. Why? It has been more than four months since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu nominated Engr. Ramat. He has undergone screening by the Senate and, by every legal and professional standard, fulfilled the requirements of the position. Yet, vested interests have kept his confirmation in limbo. The Senate Committee on Power—after a thorough, transparent, and bipartisan screening—unanimously cleared him. Their report, recommending his confirmation, was duly transmitted to the Senate leadership over a month ago. Accordingly, the Senate Order Paper of October 22 clearly listed his confirmation as a...

The Kano State Social Protection Agency (KASPA) has expressed its commitment to deepening collaboration with the Aliko Dangote Foundation to enhance social protection interventions targeting the poor and vulnerable across the state. This was disclosed during a courtesy visit to the Foundation’s office by the Director General of KASPA, Dr. Fatima Abubakar Abdullahi (Amneef), who led a high-level delegation comprising all directors of the agency. In a statement signed by the Director Public Enlightenment of the Agency, Rabi'u Khalil Kura, said the Director General reaffirmed KASPA’s mandate as the coordinating authority responsible for harmonizing, implementing, and monitoring all social protection activities in Kano State.  She emphasized that the agency’s core mission is to reduce poverty, improve social inclusion, and strengthen the livelihoods of citizens across all 44 local government areas. Dr. Fatima conveyed the appreciation of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir ...

The Gold Medal Winning Volleyball Female team, Bayero University Kano BUK players have dedicated their medal at the just concluded NUGA Games to the institution's Vice Chancellor, Professor Haruna Musa and coach Usman Abdullah. The BUK volleyball team who among the 91 universities competed in this year's Nigerian University Games Association NUGA held at University of Jos has described their victory to the commitment and support from institution's management and the technical bench led by ex international, Usman Abdullah. The university's captain Faith Baba Kenzie said despite the challenges in the prelims, the players played as a team to emerge victory at the end of the tournament. ''This remarkable achievement is the first-ever gold medal in the history of team sports for our university, and the athletes have unanimously dedicated this historic victory to you, Professor Haruna Musa in appreciation of your fatherly support, guidance, a...

The Nigerian Tennis Federation (NTF) has approved the dates for the 38th edition of Dala Hard Courts Tennis championship, as over 200 players across the country are expected to compete in the seven days tournament . The tournament Director, Alhaji Yusuf Datti stated this while briefing Newsmen on the preparations ahead of the competition. Alhaji Yusuf Datti who doubles as Vice President of Nigerian Tennis Federation said that the championship will take place from 20th to 29th November, 2025 at the Kano Club tennis section The Director added that the preliminary rounds will be held from 21st to 23rd November while the main draw commencing on Monday 24th November and final will hold on 29th. Alhaji Yusuf Datti who is also a registrar of Khalifah Isyaku Rabiu University KHAIRUN pointed out that the organisers have requested the NTF to invite the top 30 ranked men and the top 10 ranked ladies to participate in the main draw of the event. ''This year's budget is pr...

Utopia Bath & Kitchen, a renowned British bathroom manufacturer, has officially registered its trademark in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s ongoing global expansion strategy. Founded in 1989, Utopia is celebrated as one of the United Kingdom’s most established and respected bathroom manufacturers. For more than three decades, the company has embodied the finest traditions of British craftsmanship, innovation, and design excellence — values that continue to define its products and partnerships worldwide. All Utopia products are designed and made to the highest standards of quality and precision engineering. The company’s comprehensive range includes complete bathroom solutions such as furniture, vanities, basins, sanitaryware, mirrors, storage, and accessories — each created with meticulous attention to detail and durability. Through a consistent commitment to excellence, Utopia has earned multiple industry awards and conti...

Brigadier General Samaila Mohammed Uba, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (FNIPR) and an experienced strategic communication specialist, has assumed office as the new Director of Defence Information (DDI).  A seasoned military officer with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from the prestigious Bayero University Kano (BUK), his appointment signals a renewed focus on strategic communication within the military. The handover took place during a brief ceremony at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), following a recent reorganization within the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Brig. Gen. Uba took over from Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, whom he appreciated for his achievements during his tour of duty. In his inaugural address, Brig Gen Uba pledged to steer the Directorate under four strategic priorities: unity of purpose, timeliness and transparency, digital innovation, and media collaboration. He commended his predecessor for his contributions and wished him success...

Introduction At last, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, has taken the decision he had long planned against Nigeria, following complaints by some Nigerian Christians who alleged that they were victims of religious persecution in the country. Trump had once placed a similar sanction on Nigeria during his first term, but after he lost the election to Joe Biden, Biden reversed that “rash and unfair” decision. This new ruling, however, demands that Nigeria take certain actions in line with America’s interests — or face a series of sanctions. For example, these “American interests” could include the following: 1. Any Nigerian state practicing Sharia Law must abolish it. 2. Any law that prohibits blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) must be repealed. 3. Any location where Christians wish to build a church must grant them permission to do so. 4. Anything that Christians claim makes them “uncomfortable” in the country — such as businesses involv...

Despite global outrage over attacks on Christians, PRNigeria reports a disturbing pattern of mosque-targeted violence against Muslims in Nigeria has received far less attention—even as hundreds have been killed in places of worship.  This report highlights the scale of atrocities from 2009 to 2025, demanding equal global condemnation. While former U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened military action against Nigeria over alleged “Christian genocide”, the reality on the ground reveals a broader and more complex crisis. Muslim communities, particularly in northern Nigeria, have suffered relentless attacks inside mosques and during religious gatherings—often at the hands of the same terrorist groups blamed for Christian-targeted violence. From 2013 to 2025, Boko Haram, ISWAP, and armed bandits have repeatedly targeted Muslim worshippers during sacred moments of prayer. Below is a timeline of some of the most heinous incidents: Major Attacks on Mosques and Muslim ...

The Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the late Durbin Kano, Muhammad Lawan Koguna, who died on Friday after a prolonged illness. In a condolence message released by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the Governor described the deceased as “a symbol of resilience, hard work, and dedication whose contributions to Kano’s development will never be forgotten.” Governor Yusuf noted that the late Durbin Kano was a great son of the state, a respected businessman, and a traditional titleholder whose death has created a void that will be difficult to fill. “Durbin Kano has answered the call to his Creator at a time when his presence is much needed  not only by his family and the state but the entire nation,” the Governor mourned. On behalf of the Kano State Government, Governor Yusuf extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the Kano Emirate Council, and the good people of Kano State. He prayed to A...

Motorcycle riders are to kickstart 10 years anniversary programme in the ancient city of Kano tagged: ''Metallic Durbar' anniversary scheduled between October 31st to November 2nd, 2025. The President of Royal Motorcycle Club, Hamada Adam said over700 motorcycle Riders have arrived the state ahead of the event. The president said the event which is organized by Kano United Riders has linedup activities include visitation of orphanage, donation to hospitals, free healthcare outreach, bike and car stunts, town ride picnic and award night. ''The riders have been contributed positively to the uplift of the status less privilege in the society and organizing such event of its kind will go along way in supporting and contributing the less privilege and create awareness on value to what we are doing, '' the president revealed. Hamada Adam said the over 700 riders arrived the city from within Kano state and outside are to show their soli...

The deputy senate President, Barau I. Jibrin has constructed 13 stadia in the 13 local government areas of Kano as part of his contributions and support to the development of sports across the state. In addition, he directed the upgrading of the Bayero University Kano BUK stadium to the international standard aimed at complementing the use of Sani Abacha Stadium Kofar mata. The Special Adviser to the deputy senate President on Media and publicity Alhaji Ismail Mudassir made this statement during the 60th years anniversary of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) held in Abuja.  Alhaji Ismail Mudassir said 52 football clubs from Kano were benefited during this year's Nationwide League One (NLO) registration fees totaling to over 15 millions. He added that the establishment Barau Football Club was part of the deputy President commitment to empower teeming young players through sports across the country. He explained that plans are u...

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has partnered with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) to strengthen the capacity of its officers through a training exercise focused on the timely and accurate collection of data to enhance data-driven institutional performance. In a statement signed by the Director Public Enlightenment and Education of the Commission, Demola Bakare, said a two-day capacity-building workshop, funded by the European Union, was recently held in Abuja. The programme focused on implementing the Commission’s Strategic Action Plan (SAP), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), as well as data collection and reporting templates designed to support the accurate documentation of departmental activities. Declaring the event open, the Chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, who was represented by the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Mr. Oche A. Godwin, emphasized the growing importance ...

The Cross River State Government will host an international investment summit in London from Nov. 17 to Nov.19, aimed at attracting global investors and engaging the diaspora in sustainable development. The summit, themed “Unlocking Opportunities and Driving Sustainable Growth with the People’s First Agenda of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu”, will spotlight strategic sectors and investment-ready projects across the state. Hon. Ignatius Oli, Chairperson of the Central Planning Committee, Cross River State Diaspora Commission, disclosed this in a statement issued to the Newsmen Saturday. > “We are positioning Cross River as a competitive investment destination in Nigeria and West Africa,” Oli said. “This summit is a strategic move to unlock partnerships that will fuel economic growth and align with the state’s People’s First Agenda.” He said the event would convene investors, policymakers, diaspora professionals, and development partners to explore opportunities in agricu...

Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has applauded Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for taking measures to renovate over 200 Primary Healthcare Centres as well as upgrading some of PHCs and cottage hospital to general hospital across the state. This commendation was made by Kano state chairman of NMA, Dr. AbdulRahman Ali while addressing newsmen on this year's Physicians Week held in the state capital. Dr. AbdulRahman Ali said the commendation became necessary in view of it efforts to improve the health system as well as taking proactive measures aimed at improving the welfare f healthcare workers statewide. The chairman explained that the measures taken by the state government will ginger and motivate the workers to continue to sacrifice and redouble their efforts in this regards.  While appealing to the state government as a matter of urgency to innovate ways of ensuring a motivated and well compensated health workforce, he urged the state government to consider training an...

Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN has conferred the SWAN fellowship award on the former vice president, SWAN north west, Ado Salisu. The association as part of activities marking its diamond jubilee celebration had decided to confer the award on the Kano born veteran sports broadcaster in recognition of his over three decades of service to the sports media industry. The award conferment letter signed by the national secretary of the association, Amb Ikenna Okonkwo said the recognition is well deserved, adding that the recipient had played prominent roles in the life span of the association. He congratulated the recipient for what he described as an honour that is well deserved. Reacting , an elated Ado Salisu said “ tis gladdens my heart, this is an indication that my service was well recorded and appreciated , I am pleased that, I am been appreciated for my contributions to SWAN and sports in general. He urged young sports writers to cultivate the spirit of s...

The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, has commended Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba K Yusuf, for his exceptional commitment to people-oriented projects and inclusive governance. This commendation came during an inspection visit by the NIPR Governing Council on Tuesday to assess Governor Yusuf’s suitability for investiture as a Patron of the professional body. This was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mustapha Muhammad, on Wednesday. The NIPR, a non-profit professional organization established to regulate public relations practice in Nigeria, promotes high standards of professional conduct and ethical engagement across sectors. During the tour—conducted in collaboration with the Office of the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, Sanusi Bature D-Tofa—the NIPR delegation visited several key project sites showcasing the administration’s focus on infrastructure ...

...To Partner on Agriculture, Education, Culture and Tourism The Kano State Government and the Republic of Guinea Bissau have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations with a focus on agriculture, education, culture, tourism, and human capital development. This was contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Thursday. The development followed a high-level meeting held in Bissau, where the Kano State delegation led by the National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, paid a courtesy visit to the President of Guinea Bissau, His Excellency Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The delegation represented the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf. During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation in areas that promote job creation, youth empowerment, and skill acquisition.  The collaboration will include initiatives in GSM repairs, fish farming, and the cashew and mango val...

Pledges to table NUJ’s demands of protection, review of libel laws, others before the president    The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has assured the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains an ally of the media, and is committed to protecting and advancing the journalism profession in the country.   In a statement signed by Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President) Stanley Nkwocha, said the Vice President recalled that President Tinubu has long been supportive of the media and would not deviate from his consistent track record of upholding the integrity of the journalism profession in Nigeria.   Senator Shettima gave the assurance on Wednesday when he hosted a delegation of the NUJ leadership at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.   The Vice President however noted that the government and citizens alike e...