Governor Inuwa to declare Gombe Inter Schools Athletics, Football Championship open Tuesday

The 2025 Gombe Inter Secondary Schools Athletics Championship and Grassroots Football Competition will commence tomorrow Tuesday at the Patani Stadium.

The participating athletes, officials and other stakeholders, including journalists, have arrived Gombe, the state capital city ahead of the sports fiesta.

According to the event programmes released by the organisers, the Governor Inuwa Yahaya is topping the list of dignitaries invited for the opening ceremony of the championships being put together by the Gombe State Athletics Association under leadership of Ahmed Gara Gombe in collaboration with the Green White Green (GWG) Sports Center Limited.

His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III the Emir of Gombe, who is also the chairman of Gombe State Council Of Emir will serve as the royal Father of the Day during the opening ceremony of the competition featuring athletes from 73 schools in 11 local government areas of the State.

Other distinguish guests expected at the opening ceremony are Professor, Abubakar Ibrahim Njodi, the secretary to the state government, Commissioner for Education in Gombe State, Professor, Aishatu Umar Maigari and his Youth and Sports counterpart, Alhaji Adamu Inuwa Pantami.

The chairman of Gombe State Athletics Association, Ahmed Gara Gombe, who is also the director general of the competition, explained that the State Ministry of Education and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), are fully behind this initiative.

The SUBEB chairman in the State, Alhaji Babaji Babadidi, will also be attendance at the occasion with Barrister Sani Haruna, the ALGON Chairman Gombe State and Chairman Gombe Local Government Area.

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.

From Knowledge to Access: The Journey of Financial Literacy and Inclusion - By Saleh Adamu Kwaru CNA, FCCSA-USA

Financial literacy is often considered the foundational step toward achieving financial inclusion. Without the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions, individuals may struggle to access and effectively use financial services, which are essential for financial inclusion. Understanding the relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion is crucial for economic development and individual financial well-being.

Financial literacy refers to the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed financial decisions. It includes understanding financial products, budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. Financial literacy empowers individuals to navigate the complex financial landscape, make sound financial choices, and avoid potential pitfalls such as high-interest debt or fraudulent schemes.

On the other hand, financial inclusion is the process of ensuring that individuals and businesses have access to useful and affordable financial products and services. This encompasses a wide range of services, including banking, credit, insurance, and investment services. Financial inclusion aims to provide equitable access to these services, enabling all individuals to participate fully in the economy.

*Which Comes First?*

Financial literacy serves as the foundation for financial inclusion. Individuals need to understand financial concepts to effectively utilize financial services. Without financial literacy, people may not recognize the benefits of financial products or how to access them. For example, understanding the importance of saving can motivate individuals to open and use savings accounts.

Financial inclusion aims to provide access to financial services, but if individuals lack the knowledge to use these services, the benefits may not be realized. For instance, having access to a bank account is not sufficient if individuals do not understand how to manage it or the importance of saving. Financial literacy ensures that individuals can make the most of the financial services available to them.

Financial literacy empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their finances, leading to better financial outcomes. When people are financially literate, they are more likely to engage with financial institutions and utilize available services effectively. This engagement can lead to better financial health and stability.

Economically vulnerable populations often face barriers to both financial literacy and inclusion. Improving financial literacy can help these groups navigate financial systems and access necessary services. Studies have shown that higher levels of financial literacy correlate with increased participation in financial systems, particularly among low-income individuals. This can help bridge economic disparities and promote financial inclusion.

In summary, financial literacy is a critical precursor to financial inclusion. By enhancing financial literacy, individuals are better equipped to access and benefit from financial services, ultimately leading to greater financial inclusion and improved economic well-being.

Promoting both financial literacy and financial inclusion simultaneously can create a positive feedback loop.

Providing access to financial services alongside financial education ensures that individuals have the tools and knowledge to make informed financial decisions. Financial institutions, governments, and NGOs can collaborate to offer educational programs and accessible financial products, fostering an environment where financial literacy and inclusion go hand in hand. By addressing both financial literacy and financial inclusion, we can create a more inclusive and financially empowered society.

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.

Anti-Corruption Agency Cracks Down on Land-Grabbing Syndicate in Kano, Arrests Key Suspects

The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has uncovered a major land-grabbing syndicate, recovering over 1,200 plots of land and arresting several key players.

The commission has launched an extensive investigation into the syndicate, accused of manipulating legal and administrative systems to fraudulently acquire public and private lands.

Addressing journalists, the Chairman of the PCACC, Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado, revealed that the syndicate allegedly operated with the assistance of judiciary staff, lawyers, and land officials. "Preliminary findings have exposed a well-organized network of fraudsters exploiting loopholes to forge documents, backdate agreements, and obtain fake court judgments," he said.

Modus Operandi of the Syndicate

Rimingado detailed the group's operations, explaining how they colluded with influential individuals to legitimize their fraudulent activities. "They target properties of deceased individuals, absentee owners, or unsuspecting landowners, using forged affidavits and backdated documents to claim ownership," he stated.

One case involved 40 plots of land, where the rightful owner still held valid ownership certificates. "Despite no mortgage or transfer, the syndicate seized the land. We've recovered these plots, valued at over ₦20 million, and returned them to the owner," Rimingado disclosed, presenting evidence of the fraud.

Arrests and Evidence

Several suspects, including lawyers and public officials, were apprehended during the operation. Among them was a key figure caught with ₦2,857,000 in cash, allegedly intended to bribe officers for his release.

Rimingado said, "The suspect attempted to use the cash as a bribe during his arrest, which adds to the evidence against him."

The chairman also confirmed that some legal practitioners and officials were directly involved, drafting fraudulent agreements and facilitating the schemes.

Legal Action and Systemic Reforms

PCACC has vowed to prosecute all suspects, working closely with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other stakeholders. Rimingado emphasized, "We will pursue legal action based on advice to ensure justice is served and future occurrences are prevented."

He highlighted how the syndicate manipulated the legal system by filing fake applications, creating non-existent defendants, and obtaining fraudulent consent judgments. "These judgments were used to intimidate legitimate landowners, with courts unknowingly granting orders based on falsified affidavits," Rimingado explained.

Government Support and Future Plans

The PCACC chairman commended the Kano State Government for its support in reforming land administration. "This investigation is a milestone in our fight against corruption. It will restore sanity to the system and deter others from engaging in such activities," he said.

The commission remains committed to ensuring transparency and accountability, with ongoing investigations and reforms promising a more secure land administration system in Kano.

Residents can now look forward to a future where public and private property rights are better protected.

Kano Inaugurates 14 - Member Committee To Review Education Policies

Following the recent declaration of State of Emergency on Education and the ongoing commitment in overhauling the state education sector, Kano State Government has inaugurated a high profiled 14 - Member Committee to review some existing policies on education.

Inaugurating the committee today Wednesday at the Kano Educational Resource Department (KERD) Conference Hall, the State Commissioner of Education Dr. Ali Haruna Makoda disclosed that the committee was constituted by the Kano State Executive Council to look in to the policies of education in the state.

" This committee is supposed to be inaugurated by His Excellency himself but due to official engagements, His Excellency has assigned me to inaugurate this very important committee so that by next week, we can swing in to action " he said 

In a statement signed by the Director Public Enlightenment of the Ministry, Balarabe Abdullahi Kiru, said, Dr. Ali Makoda outlined the committee terms of reference which include among others; to peruse the four existing policies on education and determine whether they aligned with cultural and religious belief of the state, to determine the feasibility of implementing the policies and whether they can help in strengthening the educational sector of the state and bring any other appropriate recommendations.

According to the Commissioner, the four education policies to be reviewed by the committee involved Kano State Girls' Education Policy, Kano State Gender Equity and Social Inclusion Policy, Kano State Non-State School Policy and Kano State Teacher Development Policy.

Members of the committee include Malam Abdullahi Muhd Dutse as Chairman, Professor Abdallah Uba Adamu, Executive Chairman Zakka and Hubsi Commission Barrister Habibu Dan Almajiri, Alhaji Danlami Garba, Kano State Commissioner Ministry of Women, Children and Disabled Affairs Hajiya Amina Abdullahi HOD and Isa Ahmad a retired Permanent Secretary.

Other Members include Special Adviser to the Governor on Emirate Council Professor Tijjani Muhammad Naniya, Malam Kabiru Sani Hanga, Munzali M. Mustapha, Special Adviser to the Governor on Higher Education Professor Auwal Halliru Arzai, Chief Imam Alfurqan Jumma'at Mosque Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, Representative of the Emirate Council, Representative of Civil Society Organizations Nura Ja'afar Kura and Ibrahim Bawa Director Archives and Publication as Secretary.

Dr. Makoda who announced that the committee was given three weeks to submit its report, urged the members to use their vast experiences in coming out with the good report that will enhance the state education sector.

Responding, the Chairman of the committee Malam Abdullahi Muhammad Dutse assured the Commissioner of their commitment to work as a team to justify the confidence reposed in them.

" If you look at the composition of the committee members, I am sure government has selected several areas which require our own intelligence to look in to the problem of education in this state. I believe we will do all the best we can to provide you with much needed report " he assured.

Bird Influenza: Kano Residents Urged to Remain Calm

Amid growing fear in Kano state about the rumoured outbreak of avian influenza, also known as bird flu, the state government has urged residents to remain calmed and report any suspected case of the disease to the authority concerned.

In a statement signed by the Information Officer of the Ministry, Ibrahim Abdullahi, said, the rumoured emanated following a report that sometime in December 2024 a young man from Gwale LGA bought a duck from Janguza market in Tofa LGA and introduced to his stock comprising hens, guinea fowls and chickens. Later he noticed that his birds were showing respiratory distress and then there was mortality; out of 50 birds, 35 died. 

He then decided to bring sample to Gwale veterinary clinic for diagnosis of which in the first week of January 2025, bird flu virus was confirmed on the samples.

Immediately upon recipt of the result, the state ministry of agriculture proactively sealed the place, depopulated the remaining chickens and decontaminated the compound. The ministry also decontaminated the premises of selling live birds in Janguza market and sensitized sellers on the affect of the bird flu.

Reacting, today, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, in a press release from the public relation unit of the ministry, urged people of the state to remain calmed as the case is not a worrisome to be declared outbreak.

The commissioner said that the ministry is on top of the issue and taking proactive measures to confront the disease so as to contain its negative effect before it becomes deadly.

Dr. Labaran said that due to the fact that bird flu infects human and causes havoc to the body, he converged a meeting with Emergency Preparedness Response and One Health committees comprising ministries of agriculture, environment and water resources as well as partners in order to discuss and strategize ways to confronting the issue.

He stated that, "For now, this was what we have been doing. Meeting would be held every week with the stakeholders, and public would be regularly informed about the issue.

"Surveillance would be intensified in every LGA, especially among poultry and other bird rearers and reports would be sent to these committees on daily basis and inform Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the situation."

The commissioner explained that symptoms of bird flu include fever, mucous, redness of eyes, etc, urging people especially the poultry rearers to be the first surveillance officers in order to safeguard their flocks and wealth and report unhealthy wellbeing of their birds to relevant authorities for timely action to be taken.

73 schools in 11LGA's confirm readiness for Gombe Inter-Schools Athletics Championships

The Gombe State Inter-Secondary Schools Athletics Competition 2025 has received a boost with 73 schools across 11 Local Government Areas have officially registered to participate in the championship.

This highly anticipated event, scheduled to take place from 19th to 25th January 2025, will be held at the prestigious Pantami Township Stadium situated in Gombe Metropolis.

The competition, which includes public and private schools such as GDSS Dukku West, GSS Bolari East, Emerald International Academy, and Diocesan High School, aims at promoting sportsmanship, uncover young athletic talents, and foster youth development.

Participants will compete in varieties of events, including 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 3000m races, 4x100m and 4x400m relays, shot put, long jump, high jump, triple jump, and javelin throw, among others. 

Football matches are also scheduled, with youth football teams for boys competing in exciting games leading to the finals.

Also note that scouts from Germany led by a former captain of Flying Eagles, a EUFA Licence Coach Adrew Uwe and Coach Henry Ambrose from AGIC-DIASPORA FOOTBALL OUTREACH will be in Gombe to scout for talents during the

Principal's Cup football Competition.

The opening ceremony will include a match pass, which kicks off on 19th January, while the closing ceremony on 25th January will feature the presentation of medals and awards to outstanding athletes and schools.

This initiative, organized by the Gombe State Athletics Association under the leadership of Hon. Ahmad Shuaibu Gara-Gombe and sponsored by the Green White Green Sports Center, also includes the Principals Cup Football Competition, bringing together over 3,500 athletes and footballers across the 11 Local Government Areas in the State 

The event offers more than just competition. Participants and spectators will enjoy the fully-equipped Games Village, fitted with security, accommodation, healthcare, food, and entertainment, making it a holistic experience.

Organizers are excited about the strong response and are committed to delivering a well-organized and competitive event that will serve as a platform for nurturing future athletes and fostering collaboration among schools

Veterans, Alex Mana, Abass Mohammed, others top list of Officials for Gombe Athletics Championships

The Chairman of Gombe State Athletics Association (GSAA), Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe has made public the list of notable officials to officiate at the 2025 Gombe Inter Secondary School Athletics Competition.

Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe, in a press statement issued on Wednesday named 12 top athletics officials with vast experience in managing big athIetics event headed by Honourable Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe will take charge of the competition.

Hon. Gara Gombe, a former board member of Nigeria Football Association now Nigeria Football Federation will be the competition Director General while Dr. Alex Sule Mana is the competition manager.

Prince Simon Ayuba, is the Competition Technical Manager, Chief Track Judge is Abbas Mohammed and Gama Yakubu is Chief Field Judge as well as referee alongside Solomon Achi the Chief Time Keeper.

Hon. Gara Gombe, explained that because of the importance placed on the competition, they have carefully selected the officials to take charge of the 5 day event that is enjoying positive commendation from key athIetics stakeholders across the country.

Haruna Isa Kalshingi, is the scribe of the week long event while Kolo Mohammed is the Chief Umpire.

A lot has been happening in Gombe especially in and around the Pantani Stadium venue of the Competition as athletes are seen in their numbers going for training with huge expectation