The Cap That Stopped a Boy’s Tears: Remembering Sadiq Modibbo - By Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa

Fifteen years have passed since I last held my son, Sadiq Modibbo, in my arms. Even now, the memory of his laughter and the warmth of his tiny hand remains vivid in my mind. There was something remarkable about him, a light that shone through even in moments of fear or pain.

I remember the first time I realized how deeply he loved the simple things that connected him to me.

 Whenever he cried, I would gently remove my cap, and just like that, his tears would stop. It was as if the gesture spoke to him in a language only he and I shared—a language of love, trust, and comfort.

Sadiq was often unwell, and our visits to the hospital were frequent. Yet, despite his fragile health, he carried himself with an unusual courage. The doctors, nurses, and other caregivers grew to know him well. They would smile at his little jokes, or nod knowingly when he quieted at the sight of me.

In those hospital rooms, I learned to see him not just as my son, but as a symbol of resilience. Every day, I watched him endure injections, treatments, and long hours of discomfort, yet he faced it all with a quiet strength. Even then, the cap—the small, unassuming piece of cloth—became a tool of love, a reminder that he was never alone.

Sadiq’s love for Kwankwasiyya was another remarkable part of his personality. It was a fascination that seemed larger than his years, and it sparked countless conversations between us. I would watch him with wonder, seeing how a young boy could find joy and meaning in something so vibrant, even in the midst of illness.

I often imagined what he would be like today if he were still alive. Would he be arguing with me as passionately as ever? Would his laughter fill our home in the way it did when he was a boy? The “what ifs” are endless, but in my heart, I carry the certainty that his spirit lives on in every memory, every smile, every small gesture of love that he shared.

Birthdays were special for Sadiq. He would light up at the smallest celebration, reminding us all of the beauty in simple joys. Even as a child who faced health struggles, he found light in each day. I can still see him running toward me, his eyes shining, his cap slightly askew from excitement.

Mourning him has been a lifelong journey. The world continued around us, but I learned that grief is a quiet companion. It is in the small moments—the empty chair at the table, the quiet hospital rooms, the cap that no longer needs to be removed to stop tears—that his absence is most felt.

Yet, even in sorrow, there is comfort. I tell myself that Sadiq’s courage, his love, and his laughter have left a lasting imprint. The lessons he taught me—about patience, joy, and unconditional love—remain guiding lights in my life. Every time I see a child comforted by a parent, I am reminded of him.

Today, I remember Sadiq not with despair, but with gratitude. The cap that stopped his tears symbolizes so much more than a simple gesture; it is a testament to the bond between father and son, to the small acts of love that shape a life. May Allah grant him eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire those who knew him—even for just a moment.

SAKEF Partners with SEEWELL AND CARE CONSULT to Provide Free Eye Care Services in Kano

The Saleh Adamu Kwaru Education Foundation (SAKEF), in collaboration with SEEWELL AND CARE CONSULT, has successfully conducted two rounds of free eye medical outreach programs, offering FREE Eye Medical Check-Ups and FREE Glasses to residents of Kano State.  

In a statement signed by the Director of the Medical Outreach, Dr Jabeer Sale Adamu Kwaru, said the sessions were held at AR-RAYHAN International School, opposite the WAEC Office - Kano, on Saturday–Sunday, 21st–22nd February 2026, and Friday–Sunday, 6th–8th March 2026. Over the course of five days, 1,115 individuals received medical attention. Of these, over 1,000 pairs of corrective glasses were distributed, while several participants were referred for further specialized care.  

The initiative was designed to address the growing need for accessible eye care services within the community. The overwhelming turnout and positive response underscore the importance of such interventions in improving public health and educational outcomes.  

Speaking on the success of the program, Chairman  of SAKEF, Saleh Adamu Kwaru emphasized their commitment to expanding the outreach:  

“The demand for these services has been remarkable. In response, the Foundation will continue to organize similar sessions across multiple locations within Kano State after Ramadan, ensuring that more people benefit from quality eye care.”  

This initiative reflects SAKEF’s broader mission of promoting education and well-being by removing barriers to learning and personal development, including health challenges that affect vision.  

About SAKEF  

The Saleh Adamu Kwaru Education Foundation (SAKEF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing education and community development in Kano State. Through scholarships, outreach programs, and partnerships, SAKEF strives to empower individuals and strengthen communities.  

Our Focus Is On Addressing The Unique Challenges of Nigeria's Diverse Regions" - Uba Maigari

The Honourable Minister of State for Regional Development, H.E. Uba Maigari Ahmadu, has stated that the Ministry’s priority is addressing the unique challenges facing Nigeria’s diverse regions. He made this remark while receiving the Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Bambang Suharto, during a courtesy visit on Friday 6th March 2026 at the Ministry’s headquarters.

According to the Head of Information and Public Relations of the Ministry, Sani Datti, said the Minister emphasised that while specialised commissions exist for these regions, the Ministry’s responsibility is to formulate policies and supervise these bodies to ensure they deliver on the mandates assigned by the President.

“The President has directed that resources be prioritised based on immediate regional needs. In the North East, for example, we collaborate closely with security agencies to tackle emerging challenges,” the Minister said.

“Our priority remains infrastructure, renewable energy, capacity building, education, health, and agriculture,” he added.

Hon. Uba highlighted a signature pilot initiative involving solar off-grid solutions for local government areas across Nigeria, with emphasis on the North East, North West, and North Central regions, which have been severely affected by insurgency. He explained that insurgents often target power infrastructure to isolate communities before carrying out attacks. By providing stable and renewable electricity, the government aims to empower citizens to engage in small-scale manufacturing and other household economic activities, thereby strengthening community resilience.

In his remarks, the Indonesian Ambassador, H.E. Bambang Suharto, noted the striking similarities between the two nations, particularly their population sizes, each estimated at around 230 million, as well as shared geographical challenges. Indonesia, an archipelago comprising over 17,000 islands, faces development realities similar to those of Nigeria, which require extensive infrastructure expansion.

The Ambassador expressed Indonesia’s eagerness to invest in Nigeria’s agricultural and infrastructure sectors. He highlighted ongoing initiatives in livestock and husbandry for dairy and beef production, as well as a recent successful infrastructure project in Sokoto, where Indonesian-backed efforts recorded a 70 per cent success rate.

The Ambassador also introduced the Danantara Indonesia Project, a government-owned sovereign wealth fund. He revealed that the Nigeria-Indonesia partnership under the initiative intends to invest a minimum of $100 million. He added that the fund, supported by partners including France, Qatar, the United States, and Saudi Arabia, will prioritise development across eight strategic sectors to drive economic growth. These areas include Renewable Energy, Minerals, Digital Infrastructure, Infrastructure and Utilities, Real Estate, Financial Services, Food and Agriculture, and Healthcare.

Speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary A. Ogbe, expressed deep appreciation for the proposed interventions. She stressed that infrastructure and energy remain the backbone of development and highlighted the need for collaboration in addressing critical health and social challenges, particularly Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) and malnutrition-related conditions affecting underserved communities.

The visit centred on strengthening bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on infrastructure development, renewable energy expansion, and human capital advancement, especially in regions impacted by insurgency.

NAHCON, Mashariq Aldhahabiya Move to Streamline Processes Ahead of Hajj - By Shafii Sani Mohammed

By Shafii Sani Mohammed

The Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, has reiterated NAHCON's resolve to enhance efficiency in the delivery of pilgrims services by alligning its operations with its Service Provider Company to prevent challenges experienced in 2025.

He made this known in Abuja during a strategic meeting with officials of Mashariq Aldhahabiya, led by its Board Chairman, Mr. Mohammed Amin Hassan Andangiri. The Saudi-based firm that will oversees all services provided to Nigerian pilgrims' under Government quota in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Ambassador Abba mentioned that lessons have been learnt from the challenges recorded in the previous exercise such as data mismatch between flight manifests, contract numbers and accommodation allocations which disrupted smoth processing of pilgrims.

Both parties agreed to prioritise strict visa processing timelines, accurate data uploads and verification of accommodation contracts before departure. NAHCON will intensify compliance checks at departure centres to ensure manifest and building allocations correspond with approved records.

It was also agreed that a joint Situation Room will be established to provide real-time updates and swiftly address operational issues.

The engagement forms part of NAHCON’s broader strategy to ensure a smooth Hajj operation for Nigerian pilgrims.

FG Awards Contracts for Key Bridges, Commissions Major Projects in Taraba

The Federal Government has stepped up infrastructure renewal efforts in Taraba State with the award of contracts for the reconstruction of the Namnai Bridge and the construction of the Bantaje Bridge, both funded by the North-East Development Commission (NEDC).

In a statement signed by the head of Information and Public Relations of the Ministry, Sani Datti, said The Honourable Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, made this known during a working visit to Taraba State, where he inspected and commissioned several development projects across Jalingo and other local government areas.

At the Namnai Bridge site along the Wukari Road, the Minister assessed progress on the ongoing reconstruction of the nine-span, 180-metre bridge, which includes a two-kilometre approach road. The project commenced last month and is expected to significantly improve connectivity and economic activity in the area. He also visited the proposed location for the Bantaje Bridge, underscoring government’s determination to restore critical transport links.

During a courtesy visit to the Government House in Jalingo, the Minister emphasised that the intervention projects were designed to directly impact citizens’ lives. He highlighted NEDC’s statewide initiatives, including installation of streetlights across all local government areas, execution of water supply schemes, and targeted support for underserved and vulnerable populations.

In Jalingo, the Minister commissioned key institutional and healthcare projects, including the Institute of Entrepreneurship Building at Taraba State University, a Virology Laboratory, and an MRI Block at the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo.

The inspection tour extended to Zing, where he inaugurated a renovated and fully equipped 60-bed ward at Zing General Hospital and formally handed it over to the Taraba State Government.

 Additionally, three newly constructed two-bedroom staff quarters were delivered to enhance accommodation for healthcare personnel. According to the Minister, these investments are aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery and improving working conditions for medical staff.

Beyond the state capital, the delegation reviewed projects in Donga and Wukari Local Government Areas. These included the Mega School at Kwararafa University, the ICT Centre at the Federal University Wukari, and NEDC Mass Housing Units, all geared towards expanding access to education, technology, and affordable housing.

Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, commended the Federal Government for the strategic interventions and pledged continued collaboration to accelerate development across the state.

He reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to partner with federal authorities in attracting more impactful projects that will uplift the living standards of the people of Taraba.

Opinion: How Transparency at NAHCON Turned Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman into a Target

By Mustapha Muhammad Tukur Illo

The recent working visit of the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has exposed more than just an attempted financial scandal; it has laid bare the deep resistance to transparency within certain power circles surrounding the Hajj administration. By dismantling a calculated plot to misappropriate billions of naira earmarked for the 2026 Hajj, Professor Usman effectively crossed a red line for those who see public institutions as avenues for personal enrichment.

Available facts point to a coordinated attempt by some individuals, working alongside selected service providers, to deliberately downgrade the quality of services meant for Nigerian pilgrims. The plan was simple but sinister: alter existing contractual agreements, cut corners on accommodation, transportation, and welfare, and divert the excess funds into private hands. Had this scheme succeeded, thousands of pilgrims would have borne the cost through avoidable hardship, while a few benefitted illicitly.

Professor Usman’s response was firm and uncompromising. He refused to rubber-stamp altered agreements and insisted on full compliance with previously negotiated standards. More importantly, he did not return to Nigeria until he was satisfied that the plot had been completely neutralized and that concrete safeguards were established to protect pilgrims’ funds and welfare. His actions sent a clear message that under his watch, the Hajj would not be reduced to a money-making venture for opportunists.

However, it is precisely this insistence on transparency and accountability that appears to have triggered the recent internal rebellion against him. In an ironic twist, some board members of NAHCON reportedly passed a vote of no confidence on Professor Usman—not because of incompetence or failure, but because his transparent leadership style stood in the way of unchecked access to public funds. From an objective standpoint, the move raises serious questions: why would a chairman who blocked financial leakages and defended pilgrims’ interests suddenly be deemed unfit, unless powerful interests felt threatened?

The vote of no confidence, viewed through this lens, seems less about governance and more about clearing the path for financial impunity. Removing or weakening a chairman who insists on due process would make it easier for those with questionable intentions to operate without scrutiny, accountability, or resistance. In public institutions, such tactics are sadly familiar: when transparency becomes inconvenient, the reformer becomes the problem.

It is also not surprising that attempts to malign Professor Usman’s character or push for his removal began almost immediately after his intervention in Saudi Arabia. Those who lost access to easy money were bound to fight back, using institutional tools and political pressure to regain control.

In truth, Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman’s tenure represents a rare layer of protection for Nigerian pilgrims. His leadership underscores the uncomfortable reality that integrity in public office often attracts hostility from within. If Nigerians are serious about protecting public funds and ensuring a dignified Hajj experience, then actions taken against transparency-driven leadership should be critically examined—not applauded.

Silencing accountability today may enrich a few, but it will ultimately cost the nation, its institutions, and its citizens far more tomorrow.

mustyillo@gmail.com 

24th January 2026.

Inside Story: How nahcon Commissioners Allegedly Sold a No-Confidence Vote for Cash.

What was billed as a principled stand against mismanagement at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria now appears to have been something else entirely: a calculated transaction dressed up as institutional reform 

What unfolded at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria in recent was presented to the public as an act of conscience. A vote of no confidence. A claim of moral concern. A board rising to defend pilgrims and process.

Multiple sources with direct knowledge of events inside the Commission describe a board that did not challenge power but auctioned it. According to these accounts, the move against the Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, known as “Pakistan,” was not driven by governance failures or policy breaches. It was driven by inducement.

Sources say a commissioner was at the forefront of the agenda to write the vote of no confidence for the chair after collecting huge sums from a service provider that felt threatened by the chairman and board members were approached individually and assured of payment in exchange for a coordinated position against the Chairman. The figures mentioned are strikingly consistent across accounts. $20,000 thousand dollars for board members. Up to $40,000 thousand dollars for permanent commissioners. The payments, sources allege, were framed as appreciation, not bribery, but the expectation was clear. Fall in line or be left out.

One senior official familiar with the process described the board’s conduct as “embarrassingly transactional.”

“These were not deliberations,” the official said. “They were negotiations.”

Investigators tracing the origin of the plot point to a commercial interest with a lot to lose. An air carrier with an active bid before the Commission. The bid, according to regulatory insiders, carried implications that could have strained Nigeria’s relationship with Saudi authorities. The Chairman refused to endorse it. He insisted on procedure. He insisted on caution. That refusal, sources say, sealed his fate.

Another source who described the scene as public display of self embarrassment stated that for the fact that the board have submitted the letter to the president and did not wait for Mr president’s action, yet leaked the letter to journalist and even are sponsoring the media campaign says a lot about the rush to deliver on what their paymaster is bidding for.

“The most damaging aspect of the episode is not the allegation of bribery alone. It is the apparent ease with which a statutory board abandoned its responsibility. Commissioners entrusted with oversight allegedly reduced their mandate to a price tag. Those expected to protect public interest are accused of trading it away without hesitation.” He mentioned 

“Sudden unity where there had been none surprises everyone, they unite after money was involved. The Coordinated outrage. For an institution that manages one of the most sensitive and costly religious operations in the country, the implications are severe. This is not a story about a chairman under fire. It is a story about commissioners and board members who, according to those closest to the events, chose personal gain over duty and then wrapped that choice in the language of accountability.

Until an independent investigation exposes the financial trails and private communications behind the vote, the Commission will remain under a cloud. But one conclusion is already difficult to escape. The loudest voices claiming to defend integrity may be the ones most determined to sell it.

AN OPEN LETTER TO HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU (GCFR)

​Your Excellency,

​As the custodian of our national trust and the leader of Nigeria’s reform agenda, we bring to your urgent attention the unfolding crisis behind the scenes at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). The battle being fought today is not a mere administrative disagreement; it is a full-scale war launched by "entrenched interest networks" to sabotage any attempt to sanitize pilgrims' funds from systematic looting.

​Your Excellency, in the interest of truth and justice, we present the following technical facts:

​1. The Myth of Individual Responsibility vs. Financial Controls:

The current Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, is facing a coordinated character assassination campaign by certain Board members. We must ask: How can the Chairman be solely accused of financial mismanagement when the "Approving Officer" (Commissioner of Finance/PPMF), the Accounts Department, and Internal Audit must all sign off on every transaction?

Under the NAHCON Act, not a single Naira can be spent without the signature of the relevant Commissioner. If corruption exists, why is the "Authorizing Officer" targeted while the "Executing Officer" is exonerated? Targeting the Chairman alone is a transparent attempt to shield the "Old Guard," some of whom still face unresolved EFCC charges from previous administrations.

​2. The Triangle of "Mashariq – Shuraka’ul Khair – and the Middlemen":

The heart of this crisis lies in the Chairman’s refusal to bow to the extortion of external service providers like "Mashariq Dhahabiyya" and their local affiliates. Our findings indicate the existence of a cross-border "Syndicate" involving former commissioners and high-ranking officials in state and regional offices. They act as middlemen for these firms to secure monopoly contracts in exchange for massive kickbacks—all extracted from the sweat of Nigerian pilgrims.

​3. Exploiting Political Influence to Cover Corruption:

Regrettably, this "Syndicate" enjoys the protection of certain individuals in sensitive offices who seek to thwart any reform that cuts off the "rent-seeking" pipelines they have long enjoyed. They are attempting to professionally assassinate the Chairman because he dared to demand transparency and direct contracting, which eliminates these "brokers."

​Your Excellency, our demands for justice are as follows:

​First: Immediate intervention to purge the NAHCON Board of any member with unresolved corruption cases or EFCC investigations to ensure the office is not used to obstruct reform.

​Second: The establishment of a high-powered investigative panel under your office to probe the "interest links" between external service providers and middlemen within state offices.

​Third: Protecting the Commission's independence to dismantle the corrupt supply chains that have turned pilgrims' money into a source of embezzlement.

​Your Excellency,

Nigeria deserves an administration that protects the dignity of the pilgrim. We trust in your justice and firmness to strike the hands of the corrupt and restore order before the 2026 Hajj season is swallowed by these selfish conflicts.

​May God guide you to the truth and grant you victory over the unjust.

​

NAHCON Chairman’s Stand for Justice and Pilgrim Welfare Deserves National Support - By Sa'idu Audu

The integrity of Nigeria’s Hajj operations depends not only on strong policies but also on principled leadership that places the welfare of pilgrims above all other considerations. 

In recent developments surrounding the administration of the Hajj, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has continued to demonstrate a firm and consistent commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of pilgrims’ rights.

Observers of the process will agree that managing the complexities of Hajj logistics, international coordination, and service delivery requires not only administrative competence but also moral courage. 

It is in this context that Professor Usman’s stance against injustice and exploitation stands out as both timely and commendable.

From the outset, his position has remained clear and unwavering:

1.He does not tolerate any form of injustice against pilgrims.

2.He does not permit Nigerian pilgrims to be subjected to hardship.

3.He does not allow harassment, undue restriction, or the violation of pilgrims’ dignity.

4.He does not approve of accommodations that place pilgrims far from the Holy Mosque.

Beyond these guiding principles, his leadership has been anchored on promoting transparency and ethical conduct within the system. 

His focus has been to ensure that staff and service providers operate within the framework of lawful and moral standards, thereby safeguarding the sanctity of the pilgrimage and the trust placed in the Commission by the Nigerian public.

However, as with many reform-driven initiatives, such efforts often attract resistance from individuals who seek to benefit from improper practices. These challenges underscore the importance of collective responsibility in supporting reforms that prioritize fairness, service, and the greater good.

Truth, it must be emphasized, is not a weapon it is the foundation of justice and social harmony. The responsibility of ensuring a successful and dignified Hajj does not rest solely on the shoulders of leadership; it is a shared duty that calls for integrity from all stakeholders involved.

At this critical juncture, it is fitting to extend words of encouragement and prayers to Professor Usman and his team, asking for continued wisdom, protection, and strength as they carry forward the task of serving Nigerian pilgrims.

May justice prevail, may the journey of every pilgrim be eased, and may this sacred responsibility continue to be fulfilled with sincerity and devotion.

Civil Society Coalition Calls for Resignation of NAHCON Board Members Over Governance Crisis

A coalition of civil society organisations has called for the resignation of certain members of the Board of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), citing concerns over governance, accountability, and institutional stability at the Commission.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by Muhammad Nda Auwal, the coalition said it reviewed the ongoing dispute within NAHCON and expressed alarm over the conduct of some Board members, warning that the situation could erode public trust, disrupt Hajj preparations, and damage Nigeria’s international standing.

The group stated that Board members who are subjects of ongoing or inherited cases with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) lack the moral authority to sit in judgment over the management of the Commission.

According to the statement, unresolved integrity issues undermine the credibility of any oversight role and render allegations against NAHCON’s management questionable.

The coalition faulted what it described as vague accusations and public insinuations made without evidence, noting that no specific dates, transactions, contract references, or audit queries have been presented to substantiate claims of misconduct.

The group further outlined what it described as established operational facts within NAHCON, including that all financial transactions require endorsements from the Commissioner in charge of Planning, Research, Statistics, Monitoring and Finance (PPMF), Accounts, and Internal Audit before payments are made.

It added that procurement decisions at the Commission are committee-based, properly documented, and subject to statutory review, stressing that cases allegedly linked to the EFCC were inherited and involved some Commissioners who are now, according to the coalition, positioning themselves as moral arbiters.

The statement also maintained that Board members have no statutory power under the NAHCON Act to pass or communicate a vote of no confidence in the Chairman of the Commission.

Beyond the dispute, the coalition accused some Board members of engaging in acts of internal sabotage, including unauthorized postings, issuance of official correspondence without executive approval, defiance of lawful directives, and attempts to assume operational roles not provided for by law.

It described such actions as insubordination and institutional vandalism capable of destabilizing the Commission.

The coalition therefore demanded the immediate resignation of all Board members with pending or inherited EFCC cases, arguing that oversight cannot be credible under the cloud of unresolved investigations.

It also called for the resignation of any Board member involved in issuing what it described as an unlawful vote of no confidence, insisting that accountability must begin with those who claim to uphold it.

“Nigeria’s Hajj administration is not a battleground for personal ambition or power struggles,” the statement read, adding that the Commission represents a national trust involving lives, diplomacy, and international obligations.

The group urged the Presidency and relevant authorities to intervene in the national interest, stressing the need for stability at NAHCON and strict adherence to the rule of law.