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  • Oversight is bedrock of democratic governance, says Barau

    Oversight is bedrock of democratic governance, says Barau

    Deputy president of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, on Monday reiterated the commitment of the National Assembly to oversight, describing it as the bedrock for democratic governance.

    Barau, according to a statement by his special adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, spoke during the 7th annual Senator Abiola Ajimobi roundtable and 75th posthumous birthday of the late former governor of Oyo State, held at the University of Ibadan on Monday.

    He said oversight ensures accountability, transparency, and the much-needed checks and balances which enhance the effective use of public funds.

    The roundtable organised by the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Foundation (SAAF) in collaboration with the Institute for Peace and Strategies Studies, University of Ibadan, had the topic; “Legislative Oversight in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects.”

    “The role of legislative oversight in a democratic society cannot be overemphasised because it is the bedrock of democratic governance, ensuring accountability, transparency, and the much-needed checks and balances which enhance the effective use of public funds,” he said.

    The Deputy President of the Senate, who is also the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said that as the government’s watchdog, the legislature plays a crucial role in holding the executive branch accountable and ensuring that the people’s interests are being served.

    “Through oversight functions, the legislature has the power to investigate government activities, evaluate policies, and monitor the implementation of programs and activities of government for which funds have been appropriated. 

    “As we reflect on the critical issues of national importance and the challenges and prospects of legislative oversight in Nigeria, let me use this platform to assure Nigerians that while, on the one hand, the 10th Assembly is committed to performing its duties, we equally invite constructive critique of our activities at all times,” he said.

    Commending the SAAF for maintaining the legacy, principle and philosophy of the late Oyo Governor through the annual roundtable, he said the selection of the topic, “legislative oversight, its challenges and prospects was timely as it would enable Nigerians to reflect on the role of the legislature in shaping the destiny of the nation.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves new service terms for military personnel

    Responding to questions from discussants at the roundtable, he explained the rationale behind naming the National Assembly Library after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “On the issue of the naming of the National Assembly Library, we decided to do that because we felt that it is the only time in history, the first time in history, that a former senator was elected to lead this country.

    “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a senator and his wife was a senator. So, we felt these two things that happened in the National Assembly should be appreciated. And so, we decided to name the library after our dear president because of his history as a former senator,” he said.

    On refineries, he said the National Assembly had set up several committees to oversight them and to make sure that money appropriated is spent in the best manner possible.

    “As we speak, Port Harcourt Refinery has started operation, and Warri Refinery will soon begin operation. Those doubting this can visit Port Harcourt Refinery and find the truth.

    “Dangote Refinery is something that is also of concern to us. We took time to visit that refinery even before it started operations. We toured the refinery and saw everything, and we are proud that a Nigerian can embark on such a big project of that magnitude,” he said.

    Describing the power issue as a work in progress, he said the present government had designed ways to address the power supply challenges to stimulate the country’s economy.

    “This has been an issue that has been bedevilling this country for quite a while. We’ve been thinking about how to provide an adequate power supply in this country.

    “Previous governments have tried their best and the present government has designed ways to ensure an adequate power supply. It’s a work in progress, and the government has done everything within its power to ensure it’s done,” he said.

  • Barau urges Senate Press Corps to uphold values of accurate, ethical reporting

    Barau urges Senate Press Corps to uphold values of accurate, ethical reporting

    …congratulates new leadership of association

    The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, on Friday urged the leadership and members of the Senate Press Corps to uphold the values of accurate and ethical reporting of the National Assembly.

    He also congratulated Mr. Taiye Odewale, the chief correspondent of Blueprint Newspaper in the Senate, on his election as the xhairman of the Senate Press Corps.

    Barau in a statement by his his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, also congratulated all other newly elected executive members of the umbrella body of journalists covering the Senate.

    Other newly elected executive members of the Senate Press Corps are Naomi Sharang of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Vice Chairman; Samson Atekojo of Daily Post, Secretary; and Marcus Charity of ITV, Assistant Secretary.

    Also elected are Tunde Opalana of Daily Times, Treasurer;  Caroline Ameh of Observer Newspaper, Financial Secretary; Mustapha Eniseyin of MITV,  Auditor; Timothy Adebisi of Ben TV, Welfare Officer; and Peter Owolabi of Aso TV, Chief Whip.

    Read Also: Wike pledges continued support to judiciary

    Senator Barau stated that Mr Odewale’s election is a well-deserved acknowledgement of his dedication and professionalism in journalism and a testament to his modest contributions to nation-building.

    Senator Barau urged the new leadership of the Press Corps to diligently uphold the values of accurate and ethical reporting of the National Assembly, to effectively educate and inform the public about the activities, roles and responsibilities of the National Assembly as the legislative arm of government.

    He assured the new leadership of the Senate Press Corps of the Senate’s continued support, emphasising that the office of the Deputy President of the Senate will always remain available to them.

    “I urge the new leadership to work diligently to enhance the values of accurate and ethical reporting in the National Assembly, thereby educating and informing the public about the activities, roles and responsibilities of the National Assembly as the legislative arm of government.

    “The Senate will continue to support the Press Corps, and my office always remains open to you. We look forward to partnering with you to help move the nation forward,” he said.

  • Tax Reform Bills: Northern youths stage solidarity rally for Barau in N/Assembly

    Tax Reform Bills: Northern youths stage solidarity rally for Barau in N/Assembly

    Thousands of youths from across the 19 Northern states gathered at the National Assembly in Abuja on Tuesday to show solidarity with deputy president of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, calling him the “Sardauna of our era.”

    The peaceful rally, held at the entrance of the National Assembly, saw the youths chanting praises for Barau. 

    They organised the demonstration to support the Deputy Senate President in the wake of attacks over the Senate’s decision to allow tax reform experts, including the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, to present during a plenary session on the Tax Reform Bills.

    Read Also: Barau equips Kano police with 1,000 operational motorbikes

    Carrying banners with slogans such as “Senator Barau: The Sardauna of Our Era,” “Stop Attacking Senator Barau,” and “Senator Barau: The Pro-Masses Lawmaker,” the youths expressed their admiration for Barau’s leadership and his sponsorship of the North West Development Commission (NWDC) bill.

    Comrade Tijjani Kabiru Mohammed, former President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), defended Barau, stating that the Deputy Senate President has neither supported nor opposed the Tax Reform Bills but advocated for public education on the matter. 

  • Akpabio, Barau, Moro, Lawan mourn Lagbaja

    Akpabio, Barau, Moro, Lawan mourn Lagbaja

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described the late Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.Gen Taoreed Lagbaja as a fine officer, who gave his all for the territorial security and unity of the country.

    Akpabio said he received the news of the death of the late military chief with shock a few days after he had spoken with the President and was upbeat about his return to office.

    A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, quoted Akpabio as saying: “I received the news of the death of the late Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, with shock. His death, coming at a time the country needed his wealth of experience in tackling and bringing to an end insecurity in some parts of the country, is a huge loss to the country and the security community.

    “He was a fine, committed and dedicated officer, who served the country with all his might, even at the risk of paying the supreme price.

    “On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I commiserate with the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCON, the military community, the larger Lagbaja family on this great loss.

    “I pray that Almighty Allah, grant his wife, children, colleagues and those who knew him, the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss and also grant the soul of the departed gallant officer Aljanah firdaus.”

    Senate Deputy President Barau Jibrin extolled Lagbaja’s virtues in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, saying he contributed immensely to the overall security sector of the country.

    “It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who died last night in Lagos after a period of illness.

    “Lt. General Lagbaja served with honour, courage and dedication throughout his distinguished military career. His appointment as Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 19, 2023, reflected his confidence in his leadership, vision and commitment to the security of our nation.

    “Lt. General Lagbaja’s life was marked by a relentless devotion to Nigeria and its people. His legacy will be remembered not only in the annals of our Armed Forces but in the hearts of all who knew and respected his work.

    “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, friends and the Nigerian Army and the entre Armed Forces.  May his soul rest in peace and may his service and sacrifice continue to inspire us all,” he said.

    Minority Leader, Comrade Abba Moro, on behalf of the senate minority caucus, mourned the demise of Lagbaja.

    Senator Moro described the late COAS as a gallant and successful officer who gave his all to the country and died in active service.

    Read Also: Lagbaja was a courageous, loyal, dedicated officer, says CDS

    The Senate Minority Leader said Lagbaja’s time as Chief of Army Staff saw a great push against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping that are plaguing the country.

    He said as the nation mourns the untimely demise of the gallant officer, he hoped that his successor would fit perfectly into the shoes left behind and frontally tackle the security challenges confronting the country and continue to protect her territorial integrity, to achieve the late General’s dreams of a secured and peaceful nation.

    Senator Moro extended his condolences to the wife of the deceased, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja, the entire family, the President and Commander-In-Chief of armed forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Nigerian Army. He charges them to be consoled with the knowledge that the late General lived an impactful life and has gone to rest with his creator.

  • Insurgents blocking power line repairs in North will be flushed out, says Barau

    Insurgents blocking power line repairs in North will be flushed out, says Barau

    • Adelabu insists on death penalty for electricity installation vandals
    • Minister seeks criminalisation of sale of scrap metals

    The Senate yesterday expressed concerns over the prolonged blackout in the North.

    This followed the damage done to the transmission line by vandals and insurgents.

    The Red Chamber spoke through Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin while reacting to outages in the North while presiding over the plenary.

    He said: “Let me seize the opportunity to inform the Senate that the leadership of the Senate is concerned about the lack of electricity supply in the northern part of this country.

    “This is because the transmission line, which supplies power to the North, has been vandalised. It has become a problem for Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) workers to get it restored because that area is being occupied by terrorists.”

    The Deputy Senate President said security agencies were working round the clock to get to the damaged spot and eradicate or remove the threat that had been there for a while.

    “It’s an arrangement that will not be said to the public because that would compromise the arrangement or the preparation the security agencies are making to deal with the matter.

    “The President has ordered and directed the security agencies to do all within their powers to ensure they deal with that threat.

    “The National Security Adviser (NSA) is on top of the issue. We’ve been discussing this with him. I have been talking with the NSA. I have been talking with the TCN Managing Director,” he added.

    Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu promised that power would be restored to the affected areas within 72 hours.

    The minister was responding to questions from senators on the blackout affecting the North and the recurring grid collapses across the country.

    As a temporary measure, he said power would be supplied through the Ugwuaji-Makurdi transmission line, which could cover approximately 80 per cent of the affected states.

    Adelabu also insisted that there must be a legislation to make vandalisation of electricity transmission installations a capital offence.

    The minister urged members of the National Assembly to speedily pass a Bill before them, seeking to criminalise the act.

    He said prescribing a capital punishment for the crime would reduce vandalisation of electricity infrastructure.

    Adelabu spoke in Abuja during a media briefing the TCN organised on the efforts to restore electricity to North.

    He said: “On the issue of punishment for offenders, for vandals of transmission installation of power infrastructure, there is already a Bill at the National Assembly for this, which is being considered.

    Read Also: Akpabio, Barau condemn maltreatment of Super Eagles in Libya

    “All we just need is an appeal to the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of this Bill so that whoever is caught or arrested in the cause of this vandalisation is used as a scapegoat and this actually serves as a deterrent to others that have such plans.

    “There must be stiffer penalties. There has to be stiffer penalties. You said capital punishment; yes, maybe. It may not just be one month, two months, or such fines. Those are too petty.”

    Adelabu also called for the ban on the sale of scrap metals across the country.

    The minister noted that the buying and selling of the scraps had caused the destruction of electricity assets.

    “What I am about to mention here is that it is high time we started looking at stopping the sale of scrap metals in the country.

    “Yes, scrap metals. There are the people that encourage vandalisation and demolition of power assets.

    “If it becomes illegal for such transactions to take place, I believe there will be reduction in the vandalisation.”

  • Barau: a power broker in Kano

    Barau: a power broker in Kano

    • By Dahiru Hassan Kera

    Down memory lane, Kano state has been viewed by many political pundits as a bastion and fortress of northern politics right from the days of the late Malam Aminu Kano, the proponent of the Nigerian socialist party, Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), to what gave birth to the present political generation, the state plays a vital role in determining the Northern political standpoints.

    It also had the highest number of registered voters throughout the zone and second in the country with Lagos being the highest. So, being keen on Kano politics as a journalist and also a politician is crucial.

    It was interesting how Kwankwaso’s favoured candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf overwhelmingly defeated the then-deputy Governor, Nasir Yusuf Gawuna, and the majority of the National and state Assembly seats were won by the NNPP candidate. However, many factors played a role, which is not the crux of this piece.

    The brewing storm of the 2027 election isn’t sometimes too early to discuss, although the election is a bit far. Significantly, seeing how the present administration in the state faired within its first year, the consequences of its harsh policies of revocation and demolition of people’s properties in what seems to be a political vendetta will determine voters’ decisions in the upcoming election.

     The rate at which the Kwankwasiyya progenies are throwing their red caps at the behest of the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin of the All Progressives Congress (APC,) who was one of such political colossus that defied the NNPP’s sweeping tide in the last election, has more to it than meet the eye.

    Sen. Barau, the current Senator representing Kano North Senatorial District, is a towering figure in Nigerian politics, particularly within Kano State and the broader North West geopolitical zone. Over the years, he has steadily ascended the ranks of the political hierarchy, carving out a reputation as a pragmatic leader, legislative heavyweight, and an advocate for development.

    As Kano State’s political dynamics continue to shift, Barau’s influence has grown substantially, positioning him as a critical player in the state’s future. Undoubtedly, one of his standout achievements is his instrumental role in pushing for the establishment of the North West Development Commission (NWDC). This legislative initiative reflects his deep commitment to addressing the developmental challenges facing the North West region, which even now grapples with issues such as poverty, insecurity, and infrastructural deficits.

     The NWDC is positioned to tackle these challenges by fostering socioeconomic growth, creating jobs and promoting education across the seven states of the zone.

    Barau was relentless in his advocacy for the commission. Nothing demonstrates his far-sightedness and desire to bring transformative change to the region more than the drive to work with other legislators to make the NWDC dream a reality. With similar regional intervention bills pouring into the National Assembly at the same time, the express passage of the NWDC Bill emphasises Senator Barau’s capacity to navigate the often complex and highly competitive legislative terrain to successfully turn an ambitious vision into a concrete reality.

    With the commission now set to play a pivotal role in developing the North West, Barau Jibrin’s name will forever be associated with this landmark achievement as the bill’s sponsor.

    As Kano continues to be a key battleground in Nigerian politics, Barau Jibrin has emerged as a central figure in the APC’s bid to reclaim the state from the grip of the NNPP and its influential leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

    Over the past months, Barau has been at the forefront of a major political realignment, successfully wooing several key NNPP figures to defect to the APC, signalling a shift in Kano’s political landscape.

    Among those who have joined the APC under Barau’s leadership are high-profile political figures, including Hajiya Aisha Ahmed Kaita, the NNPP North West Zonal Women Leader, and Yahuza Getso, a prominent member of the NNPP’s national caucus. Others who have defected include Alhaji Rabiu Alhassan Durum and Alhaji Sani Abdulkadir Dambo, a top aide of Governor Abba Kabir who recently resigned to join forces with APC.

    Without making it too obvious, these defections accentuate Barau’s growing influence and his ability to attract seasoned politicians to his cause, boosting the APC’s prospects in Kano State ahead of future elections.

    Read Also: Independence: Senator Barau salutes Nigerians, appeals against protest

    The political momentum generated by these defections and the preference to identify with the senator has sent a clear message: Barau Jibrin is not only a formidable political strategist but also a unifying figure capable of rallying diverse factions within the state’s political spectrum.

     Analysts are already beginning to identify these efforts as potent weapons for weakening the stronghold of Kwankwaso and the NNPP, giving the APC a renewed sense of optimism in Kano’s political future.

    Beside his political side resides a deep commitment to empowering the next generation through education and technology. One of his signature initiatives is the provision of foreign postgraduate scholarships to 70 students from Kano State. These scholarships, which focus on cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cyber Forensics, and Machine Learning, are a testament to Barau’s recognition of the importance of technology in the future development of Kano and Nigeria at large.

    Barau’s investment in education in this advanced area reflects his position in Kano State as a leader in technological innovation, ensuring that the region is not left behind in the global race for technological dominance. The beneficiaries of these scholarships will bring back their expertise to the state and contribute to the overall development of Nigeria’s knowledge economy.

    With many political stalwarts rallying around the deputy senate president, the political realignments in Kano are beginning to spark widespread conversation among the people, with many recognising Senator Barau as an emerging political force.

    His ability to bridge divides and bring former adversaries into the fold is a rare skill in today’s polarised political climate.

     If anything, the recent defection of Hajiya Aisha Ahmed Kaita, a former staunch supporter of Kwankwaso, shows the growing influence of Barau as a unifying force within Kano politics.

    Kaita’s decision to join the APC and her supporters across Kano’s 44 local government areas have been labelled a significant coup for Barau and APC against Kwankwaso and NNPP. Her defection goes beyond boosting APC’s chances of reclaiming Kan. It also signals the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s political history, where Barau is set to play a leading role.

    To those who care, listen, and let them note that Senator Barau is growing into the political rallying point of Kano politics without even knowing it. His journey from a legislator to a political heavyweight is cementing his place as a man of vision. His determination and leadership are birthing a new political order in Kano State, indeed,Northwest Nigeria.

    I dare say this is the best time to decide for those still on the fence.

     Continue to watch in the hope of playing both sides or take these bold steps with Senator Barau. The choice is theirs!

    Because as Kano continues to evolve, Barau Jibrin’s influence is set to keep growing, making him a figure to watch in no distant future.

     As we know, Kano holds a significant stake in Nigeria’s politics. And who better for President Tinubu to align with ahead of 2027 than a man as Senator Barau, who has already shown that he can blend legislative achievement with grassroots political strategy, positioning him as a formidable leader capable of shaping the future of Kano State and the wider North West region and the nation at large?

    • Kera writes from Abuja.  
  • Independence: Senator Barau salutes Nigerians, appeals against protest

    Independence: Senator Barau salutes Nigerians, appeals against protest

    …says better days ahead

    The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has appealed to Nigerian citizens to remain steadfast in promoting national unity and to offer their support and prayers for the government’s efforts to positively transform the country’s fortunes.

    Senator Jibrin made this appeal in commemoration of Nigeria’s 64th independence celebration on Tuesday, October 1st.

    The federal government had declared Tuesday, October 1st, a public holiday to mark the country’s 64th Independence celebration.

    In a statement on the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary, signed by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau appealed to the promoters of the October 1 protest to shelve the idea.

    Senator Barau, who is also the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to reviving the economy and tackling insecurity and other challenges facing the country.

    Read Also: Barau, Mutfwang, others mourn Governor Eno’s wife

    “Fellow Nigerians, happy Independence Day. As we celebrate the 64th Independence Anniversary – the liberty from colonial rule, we must remember the enormous sacrifices made by our founding fathers: Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello and Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, among others, and recommit ourselves to the ideals they preached including the promotion of national unity, peace, justice and tolerance.

    “Yes, at 64, we face some challenges as a country, but we will overcome them by God’s grace. We will come out stronger. Let’s continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in actualising his policies and programmes. He has good intentions for the country. We will get it right,” he said.

    Under the able leadership of Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, the President of the Senate, he said the parliament would continue to work for good governance and support the executive with the necessary legislation to actualise its programmes and policies.

    Coming from the retreat of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution held in Kano over the weekend; he said the committee under his chairmanship was working hard to amend the nation’s constitution to meet the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians.

    He commended President Tinubu for the appointment of the members of the Governing Board of the North West Development Commission (NWDC) for the take-off of the commission, saying this is a further confirmation of the president’s commitment to tackle the challenges facing the North West geopolitical zone.

    “Together, we can forge a more robust and inclusive constitutional framework for our beloved nation, Nigeria, as we seek to build a brighter future for all our citizens,” he said.

  • Barau distributes PG admission letters to 70 AI, Robotics, Cybersecurity students

    Barau distributes PG admission letters to 70 AI, Robotics, Cybersecurity students

    The Barau I Jibrin Foundation (BIJF), established by the Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, yesterday in Kano, distributed admission letters to 70 beneficiaries of the first batch of its 2024 foreign postgraduate scholarships in specialised fields of artificial intelligence, robotics technology,  cybersecurity and forensic science.

    The beneficiaries made up of 65 males and five females drawn Kano State and beyond, have been awarded full two-year scholarships to pursue Postgraduate Programmes abroad after undergoing a rigorous screening exercise based solely on merit and admission from reputable foreign institutions secured by the foundation.

    Barau stressed the need to complement government efforts in the provision of functional education, saying government alone cannot shoulder the burden of education. He called on all and sundry to join hands in moving the education sector forward.

    Barau, who is the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said the provision of foreign scholarship in certain specialised fields was one of the cardinal programme of the foundation and is in line with his unwavering commitment to advance the education sector and the youth who are the future of the country.

    “Let me start by expressing gratitude to the Almighty Allah for the privilege to witness a day like this when we are gathered to flag one of the cardinal programmes of the Barau Jibrin Foundation.

    “I equally congratulate the lucky beneficiaries of the scholarship scheme, none of whom are known to me or are related to the members of the organising committee.

    “It is imperative to know that this programme is designed in continuation of our unwavering commitment for the development of our educators sector, particularly our youth, whom we consider as the pillar of our societal development.

    Read Also: Edo election: 35,000 police personnel will be deployed, says IGP Egbetokun

    “At the Barau Jibrin Foundation, we give pride of place to the overall development of the youth who are responsible for shaping and energising of our society.

    “What we are doing is a demonstration the hallmark of our political ideology aimed at building and empowering the youth to secure our future; the future of our society.

    “Our joy is always to see that we are impacting the lives of the people positively, not necessarily because of political party or geo-political affiliations, but as a duty to humanity, we shall continue to facilitate programmes and projects that will make life better for our people in all circumstances.

    “The foreign scholarship program has been designed as a special purpose vehicle to identify and empower gifted and talented youth from across not only Kano State but anywhere, to undertake post graduate studies abroad in order to contribute to the social economic development of Nigeria.

    “The beneficiaries were selected purely on merit irrespective of gender, local government, senatorial district, or political party affiliations.

    You can be member of APGA, member of NNPP, APC or whatever party, once you are qualified you will be picked. In the first phase of this programme, we are providing full sponsorship for the duration of two years or 18 months in total to 70 eligible candidates; 65 males and five females from our 3 senatorial zones to pursue higher degrees in artificial intelligence and machine learning, information, cyber security, forensic and robotic sciences,” he said.

    Senator Barau noted that but for the shortage of qualified candidates, the foundation would have awarded more than the 70 scholarships, adding that beneficiaries are not bonded in anyway and can freely take up employment in the country or any part of the world upon completion of their studies.

  • Barau lauds VP Shettima at 58

    Barau lauds VP Shettima at 58

    The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, extended his congratulations to Vice President Kashim Shettima on his 58th birthday this Sunday. 

    In a statement released by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau commended the Vice President for his significant and forward-looking contributions in both the private and public sectors, which he said, have garnered widespread admiration.

    “Before entering politics, he was a highly successful banker. His transition into the political arena has seen him make significant contributions to the strengthening of democracy in the country.

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    “Despite the challenges posed by Boko Haram then, he demonstrated exceptional governance during his tenure as governor of Borno State from 2011 to 2019. As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior (2019 – 2023), he worked tirelessly to address the challenges faced by the agencies under his committee.

    “I pray that Allah SWT continues to grant him sound health and wisdom in his endeavors and support for His Excellency, the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in successfully delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda for the peace and progress of our beloved country,” he said.

  • Barau receives PDP defector, Alin Kano to APC

    Barau receives PDP defector, Alin Kano to APC

    Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin yesterday received Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi Ali, popularly known as Alin Kano, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Alin Kano from Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of Kano South Senatorial District, was received by Barau in his office in the National Assembly, Abuja.

    The grassroots politician holds the title of Garkuwan Tsakuwa.

     Barau described Alin Kano as a hardworking and truthful politician who is always at the forefront of youth and student activities at the national and local levels.

    He said Alin Kano’s defection into the party is a victory worthy of celebration, adding that it would boost the  party’s strength in Dawakin Kudu, Kano South, and Kano State.

    Barau said: “Today, we are delighted and excited to welcome this hardworking and well-known young politician to our party, Alin Kano. He has been an ardent member of the PDP until today, when he joined us.

    Read Also: You’re a testament to hard work, selfless service, Tinubu tells Ariwoola

     “With this kind of development, we are becoming stronger every day. We have known him for a long, and we know his potential and expertise. As you can see, he already swung into action, as he was accompanied by the leadership of the APC in his own LGA.”

     Alin Kano described  Barau as his role model and admirer for over 30 years.

    He said: “I am here at the office of the Deputy President of the Senate to announce my decamping from PDP to the APC. My decision is because of the tremendous projects, interventions, and support the Deputy President of the Senate is doing in Kano and the entire North,” he said.

    Present during the event were the Minority Leader of the Kano State House of Assembly, Hon. Labaran Abdul Madari, Special Adviser to the President on Community Engagement, Northwest, Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai.