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)

Kano Information Commissioner Urges Broadcast Media to Respect Rights of Individuals and Societal Values in Political Programming

Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrd Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya has urged media outlets and politicians to promote a culture of respect and tolerance in the broadcast of radio political programmes. 

In a statement signed by the Director Internal Affairs of the Ministry, Waiya made during a meeting with heads of media houses in his office, where he emphasized the need to safeguard Kano's rich cultural heritage of decorum, decency and respect for elders and constituted authority.

He expressed concern over the the manner in which radio political programs have been turned into platforms for character assassination, defamation and undermining the state's centuries long cultural norms and values. 

The commissioner also noted that these negative tendencies have been a source of worry for right-thinking individuals in the state.

To address these concerns, the meeting adopted far-reaching resolutions aimed at promoting professionalism and sanitizing broadcast of political programmes which include suspension of live political programmes and regular training of broadcast journalists.

In his remarks, the Kano State Coordinator of the National Broadcasting Commission , NBC, Malan Adamu Salihu, reported that 262 broadcast violations were recorded in the state by his office between January and February 2025, with 196 related to political programmes and 150 involving personality attacks. 

He therefore reiterated that this statistics highlighted the need for urgent action to promote responsible broadcasting practices in Kano.

Kano Ministry of Information to partner with the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has expressed his willingness to collaborate with the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters.

In a statement signed by the Director Special Duties of the Ministry, Sani Abba Yola, said the Commissioner made this statement while receiving members of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, Kano State Chapter, in his office.

Comrade Waiya stated that the ministry would ensure that staff of state-owned broadcast agencies register with the professional body to enhance service delivery.

He emphasized the need to regulate certain content in broadcast media, particularly political programs, to prevent the spread of misinformation and protect the reputations of highly respected individuals.

The Commissioner further assured the Society of his commitment to collaboration, especially in the area of training, to ensure that all media content aligns with ethical standards, societal values, and religious principles.

Earlier, the Kano State Coordinator of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, Hajiya Aishatu Sule, congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment.

She explained that the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters is a professional body that regulates broadcasting in Nigeria, adding that no individual should practice as a broadcaster without registering with the organization.

In his remarks, the Vice President of the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters, North West Zone, Ado Sa’idu Warawa, solicited the ministry’s support in organizing workshops to equip broadcasters with modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance digital broadcasting in line with global standards.

He also appealed to the Commissioner to assist the Society in securing a befitting secretariat to improve working conditions.

Kano State Executive Council approves N33.45 billion naira for development projects

Kano State Executive Council has approved the sum of N33,455,431,626.56 for the execution of various development projects across the state.

Briefing newsmen on the outcome of the meeting, the Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, stated that the Council approved the settlement of nine-month allowances for 2,369 screened street sweepers under the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change at N426,420,000.00. He added that the Council also approved N109,070,000.00 for the procurement and distribution of UTME/JAMB forms, including the screening, registration, and training of prospective candidates under the Ministry of Education. Similarly, he noted that N284,122,002.61 was approved for the construction of a Model Primary Health Centre at Rimin Zakara in Ungoggo Local Government Area under the Ministry of Health.

The Commissioner further revealed that the Council granted approval for the general repairs and renovation of physical structures at Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS) Shekara at N434,339,301.25, as well as the renovation of First Lady’s College, Magwan, at N893,109,270.55. He explained that the Council also reviewed the contract rates for the construction of 8 units of 2-bedroom semi-detached houses, a gatehouse, and the renovation of the wall fence at Government House, Kano, with an approved sum of N90,725,980.96. Additionally, he announced that N6,600,000,000.00 had been allocated for the implementation of 2025 State Constituency Projects, while N256,654,768.37 was approved for the ongoing renovation of the Deputy Governor’s Office at Government House, Kano. 

He further noted that N160,000,000.00 was approved for the purchase of property at Ja’en Quarters, Gwale LGA, for conversion into a public school.

Comrade Waiya disclosed that the Council approved N378,000,000.00 for the procurement of nine Toyota Hilux vehicles to be used as operational vehicles by some agencies and Local Government Project Monitoring Committees in the three senatorial districts. He added that N9,760,888,878.39 was approved for the construction of seven rural roads and backlog rehabilitation intervention (Phase II) under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). 

He further explained that N5,283,158,140.59 was allocated for the rehabilitation and asphaltic overlay of Sharada Road (Dan Agundi Interchange – Panshekara Underpass), while N3,423,002,893.84 was earmarked for the rehabilitation and asphaltic overlay of Murtala Mohammed Way (Club Road Roundabout – Bompai Road – Audu Bako Way – State Road Junction).

The Commissioner announced that the Council approved N5,220,690,390.00 for the construction of 1,000 units of two-bedroom prototype houses for free distribution to victims of flood disasters. 

He added that N135,250,000.00 was approved to augment the cost of providing befitting accommodation for 2,500 intending pilgrims at the Holy Land (closer to Harami). He also stated that the Council approved the splitting of the Ministry of Works and Housing into two separate ministries, namely the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Housing Development, to enhance efficiency in infrastructure and housing development.

Comrade Waiya informed journalists that the Council approved the training of 2,000 members of the Kano State Vigilante Group and the provision of uniforms for 6,000 members. He revealed that the Council also endorsed the buy-back of 324 houses in the Kwankwasiyya, Amana, and Bandirawo Mega Cities from Pension Funds Trustees, allowing the government to resell them to interested buyers and recoup the funds. He further stated that approval was granted for the procurement of food items for Ramadan feeding programmes and palliatives, which will be distributed to key stakeholders, interest groups, MDAs, CSOs, and NGOs.

The Commissioner disclosed that the Council approved the engagement of Messrs. Skipper T&D DAMC as consultants for the completion and subsequent operation of the Challawa 2x3MW and Tiga 10MW Hydro Power Plants, pending the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). He also announced that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had signed into law three bills passed by the State House of Assembly, namely the Kano State Metropolitan Transport Agency Bill, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Bill, and the Security-Watch Neighbourhood Law.

Comrade Waiya revealed that the Executive Council received and reviewed the report of the Commission of Inquiry into the End-Bad Governance Protest of August 2024, which investigated cases of breach of peace, destruction of public and private property, and loss of lives. He also stated that, in recognition of his administration’s commitment to Kano State’s development, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf received six awards from various MDAs and NGOs. Similarly, he announced that the Governor presented awards to the top three winners of the 9th Edition of the 44 Young Kano State Scientists Competition, facilitated by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.

The Commissioner assured the people of Kano State that the government remains committed to infrastructure development, economic growth, and social welfare, adding that the Executive Council will continue to take decisions that will positively impact the lives of the citizens.

Kano Information Commissioner Condoles with Danzago Family Over Demise of Renowned Politician and Businessman

Kano state commissioner of information and internal affairs Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya has paid condolences visit to the family of Late Alhaji Amadu Haruna Danzago over the death of the renowned politician and businessman.

During the visit on Saturday evening, the commissioner described the death as a great loss to Kano, business community and Nigeria as a whole.

He said, Dazago's death has created a wide vacuum in Nigerian politics, and the business community due to his active role in shaping governance and entrepreneurship development.

He urged politicians to emulate the leadership qualities of Late Danzago' who before his death served as managing Director Kano Refuse management and Sanitation Board (REMASAB)

'' Late Amadu Haruna Danzago will continue to be remembered for his contribution to the economy as a business man, as well as the political space, because throughout his active live was dedicated to serving humanity and building younger generation ''

Waiya prayed for the soul of the late elder stateman and for his family to bear the lost.

He also extended his condolences to governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the national leader of the NNPP engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso over the loss.

Waiya Pledges to Revolutionize Information Dissemination

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has pledged his commitment to transforming information dissemination as part of the Ministry's mandate. 

In a statement signed by the Director Special Duties of the Ministry, Sani Abba Yola, said he made this statement during a dinner organized by the Renaissance Coalition in honor of himself and his counterpart, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Public Procurement, Projects Monitoring, and Evaluation.

Comrade Waiya emphasized the importance of publicizing the developmental projects and people-centered policies being implemented by the current administration to enhance the living standards of citizens. He assured attendees that his Ministry would actively collaborate with members of the Renaissance Coalition, recognizing them as a vital force in supporting government success and advancing the state's progress.

The Commissioner reiterated his commitment to adopting an open-door policy, encouraging public input to advise and support the government in implementing its programs. He also expressed gratitude to the Renaissance Coalition for organizing the event to celebrate their appointments as Commissioners.

Speaking at the dinner, the Commissioner for Public Procurement, Projects Monitoring, and Evaluation, Comrade Nura Iro Ma'aji Sumaila highlighted the role of civil society organizations in fostering democracy and good governance. He pledged to uphold accountability and transparency in supporting the state government and thanked the organizers for the honor bestowed on them.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Renaissance Coalition, who is also a former Special Assistant to the president on political Affairs, Abdurrahman Baff a Yola stated that the dinner was held to honor and congratulate the newly appointed Commissioners, who are esteemed members of the Coalition. He described their appointments as well-deserved, citing their capacity, hard work, competence, and extensive experience.

"Our organization is focused on the overall development of the North, transcending differences in opinions or politics. It comprises businessmen, scholars, and politicians dedicated to progress," Baffa Yola said.

He urged the newly appointed Commissioners to remain dedicated to their responsibilities, highlighting that they are not only ambassadors of the Renaissance Coalition but also representatives of platforms advocating democracy and good governance.

Waiya Inaugurates Gov. Yusuf Project Promotion Advocates for Kwankwasiyya Tiktok Community

The Kano State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has inaugurated a dedicated public enlightenment platform,  Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf Projects Promotion Advocates for Kwankwasiyya Tik Tok, an initiative aims to showcase the achievements of the Kano State Government and foster unity within the Kwankwasiyya TikTok community

Speaking at the inauguration, Comrade Waiya described the initiative as a significant milestone in leveraging social media to highlight the developmental strides and contributions of Governor Yusuf's administration.

In a statement signed by the Director Special Duties of the Ministry, Sani Abba Yola, said Comrade Waiya emphasized that the platform seeks to promote awareness of ongoing projects across various sectors and encourage collaboration within the digital community to amplify their impact.

He further stressed the importance of this initiative in advancing the legacy of Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, ensuring that his accomplishments are celebrated both locally and globally.

"Governor Yusuf has made numerous positive contributions to the development of Kano State, and it is our responsibility to showcase and publicize these achievements," Waiya said. "This initiative represents a collective effort to enlighten the public and foster a sense of unity within our digital community," he added.

In his acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairman of the group, Shamsuddeen Abdullahi Sani, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the initiative. He committed to working with members to enhance public awareness of the state's projects and achievements.

"I am honored to serve in this capacity and pledge to work diligently to enlighten our community about the positive developments in Kano State," Sani stated.

He also commended the Commissioner for his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the progress of Kano State.

Waiya Hosts Media Trust CEO, Pledges Enhanced Collaboration

The Kano State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has reaffirmed his commitment to fostering collaboration with key stakeholders, including Media Trust, to achieve the mandate of his ministry.

He stated this during a courtesy visit by the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of Media Trust, Ahmed Ibrahim Shekarau, who came to congratulate him on his recent appointment as the Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs.

During the visit, Comrade Waiya highlighted his longstanding relationship with Media Trust, recalling his role in conceptualizing Trust TV and the advisory support he provided to ensure its successful launch.

In a statement signed by the Director Special Duties of the Ministry, Sani Abba Yola, said the Commissioner commended Media Trust for its resilience in navigating the challenges of transitioning from traditional print to online platforms.

"Despite the economic hardships that have caused many media organizations to shut down or scale back their operations, Media Trust has remained steadfast, consistently publishing Daily Trust while others have resorted to weekly publications," Waiya added.

The Commissioner urged Media Trust to continue its excellent work while expanding its focus beyond traditional news coverage to highlight critical societal issues requiring urgent attention.

He emphasized that such efforts align with their corporate social responsibility and contribute meaningfully to societal development.

Comrade Waiya also pledged to maintain and strengthen collaboration with Media Trust to enhance effective and efficient information dissemination, particularly in promoting the policies and programs of the Kano State Government.

In his remarks, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Media Trust, Ahmed Ibrahim Shekarau, described Comrade Waiya’s appointment as well-deserved.

He acknowledged the existing collaboration between the Kano State Government and Media Trust and proposed its enhancement through the introduction of a weekly documentary or program showcasing the activities, policies, and developmental projects of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration.