News Agency of Nigeria
Kano gets new NSCDC Commandant, orders 24 hours patrol
Defence/Security , General News

Kano gets new NSCDC Commandant, orders 24 hours patrol

Commandant

By Ramatu Garba

Mr Bala Bawa-Bodinga has assumed duty as the new Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Kano State Command.

This is contained in a statement issued by the NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Mr Ibrahim Idris-Abdullahi, on Tuesday in Kano.

The new commandant replaced Shafiu Abdulmumini, who retired after meritorious years of service.

The statement describe Bawa-Bodinga as a versatile, hard-working and dedicated law enforcement professional.

Until his deployment to Kano, Bawa-Bodinga was the NSCDC Commandant in Jigawa and has held several strategic positions across Nigeria.

Other positions held include – Chief Security Officer (CSO) at the FCT Secondary and Universal Education Boards and CSO, National Hajj/Christian Pilgrims Commissions, Abuja.

He also served as Head of Anti-Vandal Unit in Akwa Ibom, Head of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Department in Zamfara, and Head of Operations, FCT Command, among others.

According to the statement the new commandant is an indigene of Bodinga Local Government Area of Sokoto State and was born Feb.7, 1973.

He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Hausa Language from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and participated in numerous professional courses and training both locally and international.

Bawa-Bodinga also holds a Certificate in Intelligence Operations from the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS).

After assuming duty, the new commandant ordered immediate 24 hours patrols and surveillance on critical national assets and infrastructure across the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bayo Sekoni

Kano govt. approves ₦1.1bn for school uniforms
Education

Kano govt. approves ₦1.1bn for school uniforms

Uniforms

By Aminu Garko

The Kano State Government has approved N1.1 billion for procurement of free school uniforms for primary one pupils in the state to encourage enrolment.

This is contained in a statement issued by Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, the spokesman of Gov. Abba Yusuf on Friday in Kano.

According to the statement, providing free school uniforms will boost enrollment, improve retention, and ensure equal opportunity.

He emphasised that education is a right, not a privilege, and this initiative will ease the burden on parents.

“The move aims to attract out-of-school children into classrooms and complements other education reforms, aligning with the government’s comprehensive education agenda”.( NAN) ( www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

UNICEF, Gavi boost healthcare with 28 solarised PHCs in Kano
Health

UNICEF, Gavi boost healthcare with 28 solarised PHCs in Kano

PHC

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, on Monday handed over 28 solar-powered Primary Health Care centres to the Kano State Government to enhance healthcare services and routine immunization in the area.

The intervention, implemented under the CDS3 Health System Strengthening programme, targets Nigeria’s 100 zero-dose Local Government Areas (LGAs) where many children remain unvaccinated and lack access to essential healthcare services.

Speaking at the event, GAVI Senior Country Manager for Nigeria, Ms Jessica Crawford, said the initiative followed a 2023 PHC functionality and energy needs assessment conducted.

She said 371 health centres nationwide were selected for solarisation, with installation works carried out between 2024 and 2025 in partnership with eHealth Systems Africa.

“In Kano, 28 PHCs were prioritised based on their location in zero-dose LGAs, absence of duplication with other projects, and unreliable or non-existent electricity supply,” she said.

Crawford explained that the project focused on facilities already providing routine immunisation, with preference for Level-2 PHCs, and on those with minimal human resources to strengthen capacity where most needed.

“This is more than infrastructure. It is about impact – building a sustainable and equitable health system for all,” she added.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Abubakar Labaran, said the facilities would address the challenge of zero-dose children and pregnant women without access to routine immunisation and basic healthcare.

He stated that Kano tops the list of Nigerian states with the highest zero-dose cases, adding that the solarised facilities would play a key role in eliminating the problem.

Labaran urged communities to protect the facilities and avoid converting them for personal use.

Also speaking, Chief of UNICEF Field Office in Kano, Mr Rahama Farah, represented by Officer-in-Charge, Mr Michael Banda, said reliable electricity would enable proper vaccine storage, 24-hour service delivery and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

Farah said the project was informed by a 2023 PHC functionality assessment, which identified 371 health centres nationwide for solarisation.

According to him, the 28 facilities were selected based on their location in zero-dose LGAs, absence of overlap with other interventions, limited or unreliable electricity, and active routine immunisation services.

He said that the installations, carried out in partnership with eHealth Systems Africa, were expected to provide uninterrupted vaccine refrigeration, 24-hour primary health care services, and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

NAN reports that the hand over was attended by the Director-General, State Primary Health Care Management Board, Prof. Salisu Ibrahim; representatives of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Gates Foundation, and other partners. (NAN)(www.nannews..ng)
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Flood: NEMA conducts simulation exercise in Kano
General News

Flood: NEMA conducts simulation exercise in Kano

By Philomina Attah

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in a move to bolster Nigeria’s disaster preparedness, conducted a “Full-Scale Flood Response Simulation” exercise in Wudil Local Government Areas, Kano State.

The Agency’s Director-General, Mrs Zubaida Umar, during the simulation exercise on Saturday, emphasised the critical importance of readiness in the face of Nigeria’s recurring flood disasters.

According to her, recent predictions by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have identified Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara as high-risk flood zones for 2025.

“The urgency of the exercise with downstream impact in Kano, Jigawa, Yobe States was underscored by the devastating flood that recently struck Mokwa in Niger State, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by natural disasters.

“The exercise is to simulate a forced water release from Tiga, Challawa, and Bagauda Dams to test emergency preparedness for potential dam-induced flooding along River Kano,”

Umar explained that the simulation was designed not only to test existing emergency plans and protocols but also to identify gaps and enhance coordination among all stakeholders.

“Today, we are simulating a crisis so that we are better prepared to save lives when it becomes a reality. Preparedness saves lives.

“The simulation marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to build resilience against the ever-present threat of flooding.

“Our ability to anticipate, respond, and recover quickly from disasters depends largely on how well we train and work together before disaster strikes.”

She encouraged all participants to approach the exercise with professionalism and learning mindset, stressing that the lessons learned would be invaluable for future disaster response efforts.

Umar expressing her gratitude to all involved for their dedication and commitment to safeguarding lives and communities.

Gov. Abba Yusuf reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the safety, well-being, and resilience of Kano’s citizens in the face of environmental and climate-induced challenges.

“It is important to underline the emphasis being made by the D-G NEMA, that disasters occur, and if, God forbid, a disaster happens here in Wudil, we are expecting the people locally here to start responding aggressively to any eventuality in an informed and coordinated manner,” he said.

He noted that the increasing frequency and severity of floods, particularly from Bagauda, Chalawa and Tiga Dams, underscores the urgency for active planning and collaboration.

According to him, while these dams overflow due to heavy rainfall, the consequences can be devastating to loss of lives, destruction of farmland and homes, displacement of communities and the destruction of livelihoods.

The governor outlined ongoing government initiatives, including the desilting and clearing of drainages, upgrading infrastructure, early warning campaigns, and strengthening local emergency response teams.

Yusuf said the responsibility does not rest with the government alone, called on all citizens, especially those living in flood-prone areas, to heed early warnings, cooperate with authorities, and take personal precautions to stay safe.

He commended the efforts of the Kano State Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, and all partner organisations for their dedication to disaster risk reduction.

On his part, Sen. Mustapha Khabib, representing Jigawa Southwest, in an interview with newsmen, expressed confidence in the local communities’ disaster preparedness.

He described the exercise as “very impressive and well organised, noting the cooperation and support of the local population.

Khabib. a member of Senate Committee on Special Duties oversight NEMA saying, “With this simulation exercise and the ongoing sensitisation efforts regarding flood risks, I am confident that these local communities are well mobilised and adequately trained on how best to provide rescue and aid services.”

The senator noted that prior to the drill, he had concerns about the level of readiness but was reassured by the professionalism and enthusiasm displayed throughout the exercise.

“This exercise has really stimulated my interest and infused confidence in me. It is very pleasing to see how engaged people are, especially those living alongside the riverbanks.

“We are going back confident that if a flood occurs, we are not just praying it won’t happen, but we are prepared to respond effectively,” he said.

Khabib expressed hope that the lessons learned from the exercise would be applied not only in Jigawa Southwest but also in other vulnerable communities across the region.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the simulation exercise included practical demonstrations of rescue operations, aid distribution, and community mobilisation strategies.

It aimed to enhance the resilience of flood-prone communities and ensure swift, coordinated responses in the event of an actual disaster.

The successful drill marks a major step forward in disaster management efforts in Jigawa State, reinforcing the importance of community involvement and government collaboration in safeguarding lives and property from natural calamities. (NAN)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Sadiya Hamza

Kano intensifies campaign against open defecation
General News

Kano intensifies campaign against open defecation

By Akpan Glory

The Kano State Government has intensified its campaign to eliminate open defecation in the state through the distribution of sanitation and campaign materials to six local government areas nearing Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.

The items were distributed through the state’s Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) to Doguwa, Tudun Wada, Sumaila, Bebeji, Bunkure, and Tofa local government areas.

Speaking during the presentation in Kano, the Managing Director of RUWASA, Engr Shamwilu Abdulkadir Isa, urged residents to embrace hygienic defecation practices in line with Islamic teachings on personal hygiene.

He said the use of latrines has long been part of the architectural designs of traditional homes in the region, and that RUWASA’s role was to reinforce these values to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

“To achieve ODF, we must sustain vigorous campaigns that involve teamwork. All stakeholders must take ownership of the process and act as ambassadors, especially at the grassroots,” he said.

Isa called on Supervisory Councillors and Heads of Departments to support the upcoming validation exercise by the National Task Group on Sanitation and UNICEF.

He also directed that the distributed materials be delivered to schools through the Local Government Education Authorities, stressing that children remain the most vulnerable to sanitation-related diseases.

Earlier, the Director of Planning, Measurement and Evaluation at RUWASA, Hajiya Isyaku Mukhtar, said the meeting was convened to share progress and challenges following the agency’s recent field visits.

She urged the representatives of the six LGAs to intensify efforts to meet the ODF targets under the National Emergency Programme, which the state governor, Kabir Yusuf, supports passionately.

Highlights of the event included presentations on WASH protocol, hygiene promotion, and ODF sustainability strategies.

Items distributed included Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials, improved latrine covers, Tippy Taps with sanitiser, and public enlightenment banners. (NAN)

Kano targets 3.9m children for polio vaccination in June
Health

Kano targets 3.9m children for polio vaccination in June

Vaccination

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

The Kano State government has set a target to vaccinate 3.9 million children under the age of five during the June 2025 Outbreak Response (OBR) campaign.

Dr Nasir Mahmoud, Director-General of the Kano State Primary Healthcare Management Board, announced this during a media dialogue on Thursday in Kano.

Mahmoud explained that the campaign aligned with the national strategy to eradicate polio and maintain Nigeria’s polio-free certification.

He said that the vaccination drive became necessary due to the recent resurgence of the type 2 poliovirus in parts of the state.

According to him, factors such as community resistance, poor data reporting, and insecurity have contributed to the virus’s re-emergence by hindering previous immunisation efforts.

“Ungogo Local Government Area recorded the highest level of non-compliance during the May 2025 campaign.

“To improve vaccination coverage, local government areas are now ranked monthly based on performance,” he said.

Mahmoud reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to eradicating polio by December 2025 and pledged to significantly reduce the maternal mortality rate within the same timeframe, describing both goals as top priorities.

He stressed the importance of collaboration with traditional rulers and the 44 local government chairmen to overcome challenges.

Mr Rahma Mohammed, UNICEF Chief of Field Office in Kano, highlighted that surveillance conducted in 2025 detected the virus in Warawa, Bunkure, Kano Municipal, and Nasarawa Local Government Areas.

“This is unacceptable and must be halted. Polio remains a highly infectious disease that spreads rapidly and knows no borders,” he warned.

Mohammed emphasised that even a single case of polio anywhere posed a threat to children everywhere and called for coordinated efforts to contain the outbreak.

He urged all levels of government, traditional rulers, and the media to intensify awareness campaigns and ensure full vaccination coverage, especially in high-risk areas.

The UNICEF official reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s polio eradication efforts and called for the timely release of counterpart funding and stronger supervision of immunisation campaigns.

He also urged the government to declare a public health emergency and increase media engagement to counter misinformation about the vaccine.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Kano traditional ruler loses son
General News

Kano traditional ruler loses son

By Kayode Adebiyi

The death has occurred of Omar Farouk, the son of the traditional ruler of Dambatta of Kano State, Dr Mansur Mukhtar.

Muktar, the deceased’s father, is a former Minister of Finance,

This was announced by the family of the deceased in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

 

Farouk died on Saturday in Abuja and was buried according to Islamic rites after prayers for him at the National Mosque. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

 

Kano residents laud Ado-Bayero over Sallah Durbar cancellation
General News

Kano residents laud Ado-Bayero over Sallah Durbar cancellation

 

By Aminu Garko

Residents of Kano on Thursday heaped praises on the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado-Bayero, for canceling this year’s Sallah Durbar due to security concerns.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ado-Bayero had announced the cancellation at his Nasarawa Mini palace in Kano on Wednesday.

 

According to Ado-Bayero, the peaceful coexistence of the people takes precedence over the celebration.

 

“Durbar celebration is not a do- or-die affair for me, the peaceful coexistence of the people is much more paramount to me than anything.

 

” We pray that the decision to suspend the Durbar procession will improve the peaceful coexistence of our people and our blessed Kano.

 

“I am calling on the people to use the festive period to visit friends and family to improve on cordial relationships.

 

” I pray that the we are among the God’s favour in the blessed month of Ramadan,” Ado-Bayero stated.

 

Many residents of the ancient city have commended Ado-Bayero for dousing tension ahead of the Sallah celebration.

 

A resident, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru, described the  decision by Ado-Bayero to cancel his Durbar as a welcome gesture.

 

” The traditional ruler’s action should be hailed by all peace-loving residents of the state as it will ensure peace and tranquility during the festival.

 

” This is especially important since Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, along with three others Emirs of Rano, Karaye and Gaya were also planning to hold their own Durbars.

 

” This would have led to parallel Durbars in Kano, potentially plunging the city into violence.

 

” By canceling his Durbar celebration, Ado-Bayero has demonstrated his commitment to his people’s peace, progress and development.

 

” I urge all traditional rulers in Kano and other states to follow Ado-Bayero’s noble example,” she said.

 

Malam Abdulsalam Mohammad of Naibawa, Tauroni Local Government Area also commended Ado-Bayero for choosing peace over Durbar celebration.

 

” Kano, a critical state in Nigeria and sub-Sahara Africa, cannot afford to risk its peaceful coexistence for personal interests.

 

” I must admit that the announcement has eased the tension that previously enveloped the commercial city.

 

” Regardless of sceptics’ perspective, Kano, Ado-Bayero and our people have all emerged victorious from this patriotic decision, ” he said.

 

A journalist, Muhammad Kabir, said Ado-Bayero’s decision to suspend the celebration was a welcome development that would give peace a chance to prevail.

 

” The initial plan to hold parallel Durbars was seen as an attempt to tear Kano apart.

 

” The mature decision by Emir Ado-Bayero to cancel the plan demonstrates his leadership and love for Kano,” he said.

 

Alhaji Sani Mohammed of Unguwar Wambai in Ungogo Local Government Area  praised the emir’s decision, stressing the importance of prioritising safety and the well-being of residents.

 

” He has demonstrated that he is a leader that prioritises the well-being of his subjects,” he said.

 

For Gambo Ishaku, a resident of Charanchi area of Dala Local Government Area, ” the security situation is a top priority and we support this move for the overall good of Kano and the country as a whole.”

 

Audu Musa, a horse rider from Yakassai Quarters, expressed the hope that the situation would improve for future celebrations.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mufutau Ojo

Dangote foundation inaugurates N16bn national food intervention project
Agriculture , Food Security

Dangote foundation inaugurates N16bn national food intervention project

By Ramatu Garba

The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has inaugurated the 2025 Annual National Food Intervention Project valued at N16 billion and to benefit one million Nigerians nationwide.

The Chairman of the foundation, Mr Aliko Dangote,  made the disclosure during the inaugural ceremony on Thursday in Kano.

Represented by his daughter, Marya, he said the annual initiative, which embodies compassion, solidarity, and shared responsibility, was part of the foundation’s response to the current economic challenges facing the nation.

“The distribution of one million bags of 10kg rice to the poor and most vulnerable Nigerians across the 774 Local Government Areas is in line with the core values of this foundation.

“We are collaborating with state governments to ensure that the food reaches the most vulnerable individuals in each state.

“Our foundation focuses on improving the living conditions of Nigerians through support projects, which tackle hunger and water supply problems.

“We are also strengthening the quality and scope of health and education, as well as promoting economic empowerment at the community level,” he said

Dangote urged other industrialists and firms to lend a helping hand in combating hunger through programmes and initiatives that would place food on the tables of vulnerable Nigerians.

According to him, there’s a need to complement government efforts in fighting hunger and poverty through a public private partnership.

“I commend the government at all levels for efforts in addressing the food crisis.

 I am certain that with time, we shall overcome these challenges. Therefore let us support the government to achieve its target of a better life for Nigerians,” he said.

On his part, Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf of Kano State said the intervention reflected the unwavering commitment of Dangote in addressing poverty and hunger in Nigeria.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdulsalam-Gwarzo,  he said the gesture would go a long way in alleviating hardship, particularly during the blessed month of Ramadan.

He said the state government had set up a committee made up of relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, to ensure transparency in the distribution process.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of the foundation, Zouera Youssoufou, reiterated the commitment of Dangote to continue giving back to the society in various ways, including supporting governments in fighting poverty and hunger.

Also speaking, the Deputy Commander-General of Hisbah Board in Kano, Dr Mujahid Aminudeen, commended the foundation for the initiative and urged others to emulate Dangote.

He said the board would be actively engaged to ensure that the products reach the targeted beneficiaries. (NAN)

Edited by Bukola Adetoye and Yakubu Uba

Kano governor bans student labour in schools
General News

Kano governor bans student labour in schools

Labour

By Aminu Garko

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has issued a stern warning to teachers, prohibiting them from involving students in hard labour, both on and off school grounds.

This is contained in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa.

The governor emphasised that schools are for education and moral guidance, not for manual labour.

During an unscheduled visit to the School for Arabic Studies in Kano, the governor had found students digging a toilet pipeline.

Visibly displeased, the governor questioned the headmaster about assigning such tasks to students.

The headmaster explained that the work was assigned after school hours. However, Yusuf ordered the practice to cease immediately.

The governor assured the school management that his administration would renovate all dilapidated buildings, including the attached mosque.

He also instructed that any school projects be submitted to the Ministry of Education or his office for execution.

Yusuf, however, inspected ongoing reconstruction projects at Kano Printing Press, damaged during the End-Bad-Governance protests.

He directed the contractor to adhere strictly to the contract, expressing concerns that some structures did not meet government standards. (NAN)

Edited by Hajara Leman / Kamal Tayo Oropo

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