Nigerian Tennis Federation NTF approves date for Dala Hard Courts Tennis championship in Kano

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 projected to be higher than last year due to general use in prices. Nevertheless, we remain optimistic about receiving positive support from our principal sponsors -TGI, First bank PLC. Fidelity Bank as well as from other corporate organizations and individuals. The organizing committee will provide accommodation and feeding for national officials and participating players,'' he said.

While commending Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and other top government officials for their support and cooperation, he assured that the leadership of Dala Hard Courts Tennis will continue to promote and development of the game in the state and the country at large.

Utopia Secures Trademark Status in Nigeria, Marks a New Era of British Craftsmanship and Global Growth

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 continues to be recognised as one of the UK’s Best Bathroom Furniture Brands. Its reputation for contemporary British design, durability, and dependable supply has made it the preferred choice for homes, hotels, and residential developments across the UK and Europe.

Driven by its heritage and commitment to quality, Utopia is now extending its footprint beyond Europe into emerging markets across Africa, beginning with Nigeria. The trademark registration in Nigeria represents a strategic move that strengthens the company’s presence in one of the continent’s most dynamic economies.

The registration not only protects Utopia’s intellectual property but also reinforces its long-term investment in the Nigerian market. It signals a confident step toward building relationships with partners who share its values of quality, integrity, and long-lasting design.

Aftab Ahmed, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Utopia, expressed his enthusiasm about the development, describing it as a key step in the company’s international journey.

> “I’m thrilled to see Utopia officially recognised and protected here in Nigeria. This milestone marks a pivotal moment, not just for our brand, but for the local market we aim to serve. We are excited about the development, and we look forward to bringing our vision of luxury, innovation, and design to Nigerian homes and communities.”

For Nigerian consumers, the registration ensures access to authentic Utopia products made to exacting British standards. It also establishes a foundation for local partnerships, enhanced service delivery, and future product lines tailored to the needs of African consumers.

For distributors and developers, Utopia’s presence offers the assurance of working with an award-winning brand known for reliability, consistency, and manufacturing excellence.

The company’s expansion into Nigeria marks the beginning of a wider African growth strategy that aligns with its vision of bringing premium British craftsmanship to new markets. With the trademark now officially secured, Utopia is positioned to build long-term relationships and deliver enduring value to consumers and business partners alike.

Under the leadership of Mr Ahmed, Utopia Bath & Kitchen continues to stand as a symbol of timeless design, superior quality, and trusted British manufacturing — now with a proud new chapter unfolding in Nigeria.

Brig Gen Samaila Uba FNIPR Takes Over as Director Defence Information

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 in future endeavours.

Born on July 1, 1968, in Tudun Wada, Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, Brig Gen Uba began his military journey at the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of Short Service Combatant Course 30. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on March 13, 1993, and initially served in the Directorate of Army Public Relations before transitioning to the Infantry Corps.

His academic journey includes Tudun Wada Primary School and Saint Thomas Secondary School in Kano, where he earned his First School Leaving Certificate and West African School Certificate in 1981 and 1986 respectively. He later graduated from Bayero University Kano in 1990 with a degree in Mass Communication. He also obtained a Post-Graduate Diploma in Public Administration from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration in 2009 and a Master’s degree in Strategic and Development Studies from Bangladesh University of Professionals in 2019.

Throughout his career, Brig Gen Uba has completed all relevant military courses, including the Senior Staff Course at Ghana Armed Forces Command & Staff College and the National Defence Course at the National Defence College in Bangladesh. He has held numerous command, staff, and instructional roles, including Officer in Charge of Administration at the Infantry Centre and School, Commander of the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Borno State, and Public Relations Officer for the Nigerian Contingent to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Rwanda. He also served as Public Relations Officer to a former Chief of Army Staff, where he played a key role in projecting a positive image of the Nigerian Army.

Brig Gen Uba was a distinguished member of the Directing Staff and Chief Instructor at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji. He was seconded to the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College in Gwagwalada as the DHQ Training Team Leader, training customs officers in command and staff responsibilities. He also served as Deputy Director Peacekeeping Operations and Director Personnel Services at Army Headquarters. Until his recent appointment, he was the Director of the Department of Joint Studies at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji.

He is the recipient of numerous awards and decorations, including the Grand Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, Field Command Medal, Passed Staff Course double dagger (++), National Defence College (Bangladesh), Nigerian Army Outstanding Tactical Command Medal, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award Medal.

Brig Gen Uba is affiliated with several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Nigerian Institute of Management, Nigerian Army Resource Centre, and the Nigerian Society of International Affairs. He is happily married with children and enjoys playing squash and reading in his leisure time.

PRNigeria

On Donald Trump Decision Against Nigeria - Sa'idu Ahmad Dukuwa

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 involving halal trade — must be stopped.

5. All businesses Christians desire, such as alcohol trade, must be freely allowed across the nation.

These are just examples of the complaints made by some Christian groups to the United States, which may also include political and economic demands.

This action by Trump mirrors what America once did to Iraq under Saddam Hussein — accusing the country of possessing weapons of mass destruction, just to justify an invasion.

If true justice were the goal, then both sides — the accusers and the Nigerian authorities — should have been listened to, including Muslim organizations that provided counter-evidence.

Even among Christians, many reasonable voices have spoken against these exaggerated claims, yet their words are ignored. Clearly, a plan against Nigeria had already been set in motion.

So, what is left for the Nigerian government and its citizens to do?

Here is my opinion:

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WHAT THE NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT SHOULD DO

1. Use diplomatic channels to inform the Trump administration that the situation is being misrepresented. Even if America remains adamant, the rest of the sensible world will know that any step America takes against Nigeria on this basis is pure injustice, and that knowledge itself will have benefits.

2. Reduce dependence on the United States in key areas such as trade, education, and healthcare. Nigeria should instead strengthen ties with other countries like Russia, China, and Turkey.

3. Unite Nigerians — both Muslims and Christians who do not share this divisive mindset — to resist and expose any malicious plots against the nation.

--

WHAT THE NIGERIAN PEOPLE SHOULD DO

1. All Nigerians — Muslims and Christians alike — should begin to reduce their personal and travel ties with the United States, especially visa applications, as it may no longer be easy to obtain them.

2. Those who hold large amounts of US dollars should consider converting their funds into other global currencies.

3. Muslims with good relationships with Christians should not let this tension destroy their friendships — and vice versa. Let unity prevail.

4. Muslims must not lose hope or courage. They should realize that they have no powerful ally. Non-Muslims are the ones with global backing. The Jews can commit atrocities against Muslims and America will support them. In India, Muslims are being killed — America is silent. In China, Muslims face persecution — America is silent.

In Nigeria, there is no single town where Muslims have chased out Christians, but in Tafawa Balewa, Christians expelled Muslims and took over the town. Terrorists who kill indiscriminately in Nigeria have taken more Muslim lives than Christian ones — yet Trump publicly declared that only Christian lives matter.

Still, Muslims can take comfort in one fact: Islam is spreading fast in both America and Europe. Perhaps, one day, when Islam gains ground there, justice and fairness will finally return to the world — because today’s problem is rooted in the injustice that Western powers built the world upon.

5. Nigerian Christians themselves need to wake up to the truth — that the Western world does not truly care about Christianity, only about controlling resources and power.

If they really cared about Christian lives, they wouldn’t have ignored what’s happening in Congo — a country with one of the largest Christian populations — where Christians kill one another. The same goes for South Sudan, Central African Republic, and Rwanda.

There are countless examples of Christian nations engulfed in crisis. And when Nigerian Christians think of running to the US for refuge, they will realize that America will not take them in. Therefore, it’s wiser to live peacefully with their Muslim brothers and sisters here in Nigeria.

6. Finally, it is the duty of all believers to constantly pray for Nigeria — that God protects it from every form of harm and evil.

Peace and blessings of Allah be upon you all.

Dr. Saidu Ahmad Dukawa

Bayero University, Kano (BUK)

3 November 2025

Terror in the Mosques: A Chronicle of Attacks on Muslim Worshippers in Nigeria

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 Gatherings

- August 11, 2013 – Konduga, Borno: Boko Haram gunmen massacred 44–46 worshippers during Fajr prayers at the Central Mosque. Over 30 were injured in what was the group’s first large-scale mosque attack.

- November 3–4, 2014 – Potiskum, Yobe: A suicide bomber targeted a Shia Ashura procession, killing 15 and injuring 50.

- November 28, 2014 – Kano City: Triple bomb blasts and gunfire at the Central Mosque during Friday prayers killed at least 81 (witnesses say over 200) and injured 100+.

- July 17, 2015 – Damaturu, Yobe: Suicide bombers, including a 10-year-old girl, attacked Eid al-Fitr prayers, killing up to 50.

- October 15, 2015 – Maiduguri, Borno: Twin suicide bombings during evening prayers killed 42.

- November 27, 2015 – Dakasoye, Kano: A suicide bomber struck a Shia Arba’een procession, killing 21.

- March 16, 2016 – Molai-Umarari, Borno: Two female bombers killed 24 worshippers during dawn prayers.

- January 16, 2017 – Maiduguri: A 12-year-old girl bombed a university mosque, killing 4 and injuring 15.

- November 21, 2017 – Mubi, Adamawa: A teenage bomber killed 50 in the Madina Mosque.

- May 1, 2018 – Mubi: Twin mosque bombings killed 27 and injured 56.

- July 23, 2018 – Konduga: A suicide bomber killed 11 during early morning prayers.

- July 27, 2019 – Nganzai, Borno: Boko Haram ambushed mourners, killing 65.

- October 25, 2021 – Mazakuka, Niger: Bandits killed 18 worshippers and the imam during Fajr prayers.

- October 5, 2021 – Yasore, Katsina: Bandits shot 10 worshippers during Maghrib prayers.

- November 5, 2023 – Funtua, Katsina: Armed men attacked a Maulud celebration, killing 20 and abducting others.

- August 19, 2025 – Unguwan Mantau, Katsina: Bandits killed 27 during dawn prayers.

- February & June 2025 – Zamfara & Borno: Bandits kidnapped an imam and 30 others; ISWAP launched fresh attacks.

Trump’s threat to invade Nigeria over Christian killingshas sparked debate about selective international concern. While Christian communities have undeniably suffered, Muslim worshippers have also been systematically targeted in their sacred spaces. The Nigerian government insists that violence affects all faiths and regions.

PRNigeria condemn all forms of religious violence—against Christians, Muslims, and others. Every life lost in a house of worship is a tragedy that demands justice, not selective empathy.

Let the world speak with one voice: No faith deserves to be hunted in prayer.

By PRNigeria

Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf Mourns Late Durbin Kano, Muhammad Lawan Koguna

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 Almighty Allah to grant the deceased eternal rest and give the family the strength to bear the loss.

Motorcycle Riders Kick Off 10th Anniversary Friday

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 solidary and support to the state and the federal government commitment to the developmental programmes executed countrywide.

He appealed to the teeming people of the state to give the organisers maximum support and cooperation towards achieve the desired goal.

While appreciating the security agencies for their unflinching support and cooperation, he urged them to sustain the tempo..

Dignitaries within and outside the state are expected to grace the occasion.

Barau support SWAN with N2million at 60th anniversary

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 underway to transform Barau FC into a continental football powerhouse, attracting players from across West Africa and beyond, adding that nothing is too much for the Nigerian youth and by extension to sports.

While commending the leadership of SWAN for their recognition, he assured that the deputy President will continue to complement the President Bola Ahmad Tinubu's commitment towards the overall development of various sporting events in the country.

He later donated the sum of two million Naira to the SWAN to enable them start construction of it secretariat in Abuja.

ICPC Collaborates with RoLAC on Capacity Building

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 of data in modern governance. He described data as the foundation upon which informed decisions are made, policies are formulated, and accountability is sustained.

According to him, the ICPC, being a lead institution in promoting integrity and combating corruption, must possess the capacity to collect, manage, analyze, and evaluate data effectively. He described this capacity not merely as a technical requirement but as a “strategic imperative” for the Commission’s mission.

Dr. Aliyu noted that the training was structured to equip participants with the tools and methodologies required to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen transparency, and improve the Commission’s overall impact, particularly in areas such as tracking investigative progress, assessing the effectiveness of preventive initiatives, and reporting institutional performance through robust data management and monitoring and evaluation systems.

In the first technical session, Mr. Oche A. Godwin delivered a presentation on the ICPC Strategic Action Plan (2024–2028). He highlighted key areas such as planning, risk assessment, resource optimization, and adaptive strategies in a dynamic operating environment. He further explained that the value of any plan is realized only through implementation and that effective planning must remain flexible while clarifying both short and long-term goals.

The second technical paper, titled Practicalizing the Annual Work Plan was delivered by Mr. Hilary Zira. He provided participants with practical guidance on how the Annual Work Plan aligns with SAP implementation, stressing its importance in ensuring that departmental activities contribute meaningfully to institutional objectives and measurable outcomes.

The workshop also featured a practical session during which participants applied the concepts and tools learned, including data entry, reporting templates, and KPI measurement. The hands-on component ensured that officers not only understood the theoretical framework but could also translate it into accurate and standardized documentation practices across the Commission.

Also speaking, the Component Lead of RoLAC, Dr. Emmanuel Uche, underscored the importance of proper documentation as a critical tool for accountability, institutional learning, and performance measurement.

Cross River to Host Global Investment Summit in London, Targets Diaspora and Foreign Investors

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 agriculture, tourism, ICT, manufacturing, renewable energy, infrastructure, and the green economy.

> “We aim to mobilise both domestic and foreign capital into high-growth sectors,” he said.

“It will also promote bankable projects and public-private partnership (PPP) models that can drive long-term development.”

Oli said the summit would serve as a platform for business-to-business and business-to-government networking.

> “Diaspora engagement is central to our strategy. We want to connect with Cross Riverians abroad and create channels for investment, mentorship, and knowledge transfer,” he added.

He noted that the summit’s outcomes would align with the state’s development goals and support Nigeria’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP).

The event will be moderated by Mr. Nero Ughwujabo, a public policy expert with a background in stakeholder engagement and strategic communications.

Prince Otu Okor, Chairman of the Cross River State Diaspora Commission, described the summit as a turning point for the state’s global re-engagement strategy.

> “We are deliberately creating a platform that links our diaspora community to viable investment opportunities back home,” Okor said.

“Cross Riverians abroad are not just spectators—they are vital partners in the state’s transformation agenda.”

He said the Commission is working closely with the summit’s planning committee to ensure effective diaspora participation across all sessions.

> “Our people in the diaspora have the networks, skills, and capital needed to accelerate economic growth in Cross River,” Okor added.

“This summit provides a concrete pathway for them to contribute meaningfully.”

Oli further highlighted opportunities across several strategic sectors:

> “In agriculture, we are focusing on commercial farming, agro-processing, and export value chains,” he said.

“Tourism prospects include hospitality, eco-tourism, and cultural festivals. We are also promoting manufacturing opportunities in agro-allied industries, light production, and export growth.”

He said ICT and renewable energy—particularly solar mini-grids, hydro, and biomass—would also feature prominently, alongside infrastructure such as roads, industrial parks, and urban renewal projects.

> “We’re targeting responsible investments in forestry and mining, including sustainable timber, eco-products, carbon credits, and minerals like barite and limestone,” he added.

“We’re also creating pathways for diaspora-led investments through bonds, joint ventures, and mentoring.”

Oli said Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu would deliver the keynote address and officially open the summit.

> “The programme will feature a policy showcase on investment incentives and ongoing regulatory reforms,” he said.

Panel discussions will focus on tourism, infrastructure, health, agriculture, ICT, and renewable energy, while a special diaspora session will address skills transfer, strategic investments, and long-term partnerships.

The summit is expected to attract investors, business leaders, development agencies, diplomatic missions, and senior government officials.

> “This is not just an event; it is a gateway to partnerships that will define the future of Cross River State,” Oli said.

Oli also expressed appreciation to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Nigeria, led by Ms. Sharon Dimanche, for their strategic support in mobilizing multilateral partners and fostering collaboration to advance the vision of His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

He noted that IOM’s continued engagement underscores the importance of migration and diaspora investment as key drivers of sustainable development in Cross River State.

"Click on the link for registration https://cridcom.crossriverstate.gov.ng/crs-investment-summit