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Tag: kano state

  • Kano govt signs agreement on 500MW solar project

    Kano govt signs agreement on 500MW solar project

    The Kano State Government has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Tricell Solar to fast-track development of a 500-megawatt solar power project.

    The Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Dr Gaddafi Sani-Shehu, made this known while receiving a Tricell Solar delegation to review the agreement.

    This is contained in a statement by the ministry’s spokesman, Saad Umar.

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    He said the meeting reviewed progress and discussed accelerating renewable energy projects across the state.

    Sani-Shehu explained that the project showed government commitment. “It will diversify the energy mix and meet rising electricity demand,” he said.

    Tricell Solar’s chief executive, Ali Kobeissi, said the company would deliver 500MW, stimulate innovation, attract investment and create jobs.

    He added that improved supply would boost economic growth and support small businesses and households across Kano State.

  • FG approves ₦1 trillion metro rail service for Kano

    FG approves ₦1 trillion metro rail service for Kano

    The Federal Government has approved the construction of a ₦1 trillion Metropolitan Rail Service in Kano State to transform urban transportation, boost economic activities, and ease traffic congestion.

    Governor Abba Yusuf disclosed this on Thursday while addressing a Kano State contingent that participated in the 2025 National Qur’anic Recitation Competition in Borno State.

    Yusuf, in a statement by his spokesman Sanusi Bature, said the rail project aims to provide a modern, efficient, and affordable mass transit system, connecting key districts and enhancing mobility for residents.

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    It is also expected to stimulate trade and investment, improve quality of life, and position Kano as a major transportation hub in the North.

    “The Kano State Government would work closely with federal agencies to ensure smooth implementation and transparency,” the governor added.

    Yusuf appreciated the Federal Government’s initiative and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supportive policies and infrastructure development.

  • Kano killing and the menace of drugs abuse

    Kano killing and the menace of drugs abuse

    • By Ibrahim Mustapha

    Sir: The brutal murder of 35-year-old housewife, Fatima Abubakar, and her six children in Dorayi Charanci quarters, Kano State, is one tragedy Nigerians should never become numb to. Yet, like many violent crimes before it, the shock will fade, the outrage will cool, and life will move on—until the next horrific headline reminds us that something is deeply broken in our society.

    This was not just a crime; it was a reflection of our collective failure; a failure of values, of institutions, of families, and of a system that continues to abandon its youths to poverty, idleness, and drug addiction. No rational human being—no matter how angry or provoked—can slaughter innocent children in cold blood. Acts of such savagery are often committed by minds already destroyed by hard drugs and hopelessness.

    Drug abuse has quietly become one of the most dangerous fuels of violent crime in Nigeria. Across cities and rural communities, many young people roam the streets without jobs, skills, or hope. In search of escape, they turn to drugs. Once intoxicated, conscience disappears, fear vanishes, and violence becomes easy. As the old saying goes, an idle mind is the devil’s workshop—and drugs provide the devil with tools.

    The arrest of suspects by the Kano State Police Command offers a glimmer of hope. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. If found guilty, the perpetrators must face the full wrath of the law. Anything less would send a dangerous message that human life is cheap. However, even the harshest punishment cannot heal the wounds left behind. The pain of a father who lost his wife and six children will linger for a lifetime.

    Sadly, this is not an isolated case. From Kano to Kaduna, Lagos to Port Harcourt, stories of defenceless Nigerians murdered in cold blood are becoming disturbingly common. Only last year, a nurse from Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital in Zaria was followed home, robbed, and hacked to death after closing from work.

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    These killings share a familiar pattern: desperation, drugs, and moral collapse. While security agencies deserve commendation for their efforts under difficult conditions, policing alone cannot solve this crisis. Guns and handcuffs cannot cure addiction, unemployment, or broken homes. The roots of the problem run much deeper.

    Unemployment remains a major trigger. Millions of young Nigerians wake up every day with no jobs, no income, and no clear future. Frustration pushes many into drug abuse, and drugs push them into crime. Weak parental supervision, erosion of moral values, and easy access to illicit substances have only made matters worse.

    The solution must therefore be comprehensive. Prevention is key. Drug-abuse education should be mainstreamed in schools, religious centres, and community forums. The media must go beyond reporting crimes to consistently exposing the dangers of drug addiction. When youths understand the consequences, many can still be saved. Empowerment is equally critical. Governments at all levels must prioritise job creation, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support. Sports, arts, and creative programmes should be revived to productively engage young people and redirect their energies.

    At the enforcement level, agencies like the NDLEA must be better equipped to disrupt drug trafficking networks. Dealers and suppliers should face severe penalties. However, youths already trapped in addiction need rehabilitation, counselling, and reintegration—not just prison sentences that harden them further.

    Communities cannot afford to stand aside. Parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth organisations, and civil society groups must reclaim their role as moral gatekeepers. Drug abuse is not only a government problem; it is a societal one. The killing of Fatima Abubakar and her six children should not be remembered as just another tragic statistic. It should serve as a wake-up call. If Nigeria truly wants to end the cycle of violence, it must confront drug abuse, youth unemployment, and moral decay with urgency and sincerity.

    Until then, more innocent lives will be lost—and we will all share the blame.

    •Ibrahim Mustapha,

     Pambegua, Kaduna State.

  • Kano residents laud Yusuf’s resignation from NNPP

    Kano residents laud Yusuf’s resignation from NNPP

    A cross section of Kano residents on Saturday praised Gov. Abba Yusuf for his decision to resign from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

    Alhaji Abubakar Isa of Unguwar Wanbai, Gwale Local Government Area, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the Governor’s political move would allow him to concentrate on delivering all his campaign promises without undue interference from any godfather.

    According to him, the governor will now be free to appoint Commissioners, Special Advisers and Heads of government’s agencies at his discretion, thereby ensuring the proper execution of government’s programmes.

    Musa Ibrahim of Shagari Quarters, said they for the first time, Yusuf appeared to be independent and would be able to fulfil his role as a democratically-elected leader.

    He described the development as “the best thing that had happened to the political growth of Kano State.”

     Yusuf has widely been commended for demonstrating political maturity by honourably resigning NNPP, a move described as a bold step toward genuine independence.

    Mr Muhuyi Magaji told NAN in Kano  that the resignation would open the way for substantial political development in the state.

    He explained that by leaving the party, the governor can now pursue development plans without interference from any godfather, thereby helping to restructure Kano’s political landscape for optimal growth.

    Magaji added that the governor’s decision to choose independence would propel the state to greater heights, enabling him to shape policies and projects free from undue external influence.

    Malama Hadiza Mohammed of Hotoro Quarters said the governor’s departure from the NNPP had already altered the political narrative in Kano, creating expectations of positive contributions from the federal government, including appointments that could foster the state’s growth.

    She said that  Yusuf had placed the state’s interest at heart by resigning and, potentially, by joining the All Progressives Congress, a move she believes would serve the common good of Kano.

     Dr Abubakar  Salihu of the Department of Public Administration, Bayero University Kano,commended  Yusuf for resigning from NNPP.

    Salihu described the governor’s decision as a positive development for the state’s political landscape and “one of the best things that has happened to the political growth of Kano.”

    He added that should Yusuf align with the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kano could expect improved access to federally‑funded infrastructure projects, stronger bargaining power in budgetary allocations, and strategic appointments for Kano elites within key national institutions.

    According to Salihu, such an alignment had historically translated into accelerated development in many states, citing examples such as road construction, water projects and an expanded security presence.

    He added that the move could maximise both the governor’s personal influence and the state’s perceived advantage, resulting in an increase in state and federal government projects without undue interference from political godfathers.

    Mr Innocent Okafor of Sabon Gari, Fagge Local Government, lauded the political maturity demonstrated by Yusuf, highlighting that he left the NNPP without any conflict with his former political leader.

    He said, “Gov. Yusuf is a political class to be reckoned with.

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    “He entered politics through the NNPP and recognised that the state would be better served by aligning with the centre, and he did so without any political rancour. This is truly commendable.”

    Kabiru  Musa from Bunkure Local Government also commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for resigning from NNPP and for his potential move to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the good of Kano State.

    He said, “We in Bunkure Local Government already see the impact of the Federal Government through projects in agriculture, delivered by the Hadejia‑Jamaare  River Basin Development Authority, and through educational initiatives such as the Air Force Secondary School in Rano.”

    Musa added that these federal interventions, already evident in the area, demonstrated that the governor’s decision wad “the best thing that has happened to Kano State.”

    NAN reports that the governor’s resignation was accompanied by 21 members of the State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives and 44 local‑government chairmen across Kano State.

    (NAN)

  • Senate lauds police for swift arrest of Kano mother, six children’s killers

    Senate lauds police for swift arrest of Kano mother, six children’s killers

    The Senate has commended the Nigeria Police Force for the swift arrest of suspects behind the gruesome killing of a woman and her six children in Kano State, describing the operation as evidence of a more responsive and intelligence-driven police institution.

    The Senate Committee on Police Affairs gave the commendation on Wednesday following the arrest of Umar Auwalu and two alleged accomplices less than 24 hours after the attack on the home of Fatima Abubakar in Chiranchi, Dorayi Quarters, Gwale Local Government Area.

    The suspects were apprehended in a sting operation barely 20 hours after the crime, which shocked residents of Kano and drew national outrage.

    The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Ahmed Abdulhamid Malam-Madori, in a statement in Abuja, praised the police for what he called a demonstration of growing operational capacity.

    “The speed with which the suspects were tracked and apprehended demonstrates a Nigeria Police Force that is becoming more responsive, intelligence-led and accountable,” he said.

    Malam-Madori expressed deep sorrow over the killings, describing the loss of a mother and her six children as heartbreaking and distressing.

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    While noting that no arrest could reverse such a tragedy, he said the prompt response sent a strong signal that violent crimes would be pursued relentlessly and punished within the bounds of the law.

    According to him, the successful operation underscored improved coordination within the force, particularly in the use of intelligence-led policing, targeted sting operations and rapid deployment.

    The senator also assured Nigerians of the National Assembly’s commitment to reforms aimed at strengthening professionalism, accountability and the welfare of police officers.

    “A motivated and well-equipped Nigeria Police Force is essential for public safety,” he said, stressing that efficiency and professionalism cannot be demanded without adequate funding.

    “We must fund the police adequately. Security is built on resources, tools and people. When funding is weak, investigations suffer. When funding improves, response time shortens, intelligence improves and offenders are tracked down,” he said.

    Malam-Madori added that proper funding would ensure the provision of vehicles, communication systems, forensic tools and continuous training, as well as improved welfare for officers who risk their lives daily.

    “Every naira invested in the police saves the country far more in avoided crimes, protected lives and preserved property. Security spending is not wasteful; it is protective,” he said, pledging continued legislative push for realistic and adequate police funding.

    He also commended residents of Kano who provided information that aided the investigation, urging citizens nationwide to sustain cooperation with law enforcement agencies by sharing credible intelligence and supporting lawful security efforts.

  • Kano business women get interest-free loans

    Kano business women get interest-free loans

    Women-owned online businesses have received assurance of interest-free loans to support the growth of their businesses.

    The businesswomen under the auspices of Women Online Vendors Association would also be supported with training, office accommodation and other initiatives that would enhance their businesses.

    Chairman, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Kano State Chapter, Dr Faruk Umar mad the pledge while receiving the leadership of the association at the ACF headquarters in Kano.

    Umar said the forum would provide soft, interest-free loans to eligible members of the association, alongside entrepreneurship training to strengthen their business and management skills.

    He said the initiative was part of ACF’s commitment to empowering women and promoting economic self-reliance.

    He further directed the leadership of the association to liaise with the forum’s Legal Adviser, Hajiya Salma Danbappa, and Assistant Auditor, Hajiya Fatima Ado Bayero, to identify areas of collaboration and modalities for effective support.

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    Chairperson, Women Online Vendors Association, Hajiya Umma Uba Adamu said the visit was to solicit ACF’s support in enhancing the capacity and growth of women-owned online businesses in the state.

    She explained that the association currently offers virtual training for women entrepreneurs and focuses on empowering members through skills acquisition and capacity development.

    According to her, the association is seeking support not only in terms of capital but also training opportunities, particularly for uneducated women who require practical skills to improve their livelihoods.

    She appealed to ACF for guidance and assistance in accessing government interventions and other empowerment programmes.

    She commended the forum for its commitment to women empowerment and expressed optimism that the partnership would significantly improve the economic prospects of women online vendors in Kano State.

  • How woman, six children were killed in Kano

    How woman, six children were killed in Kano

    In Chiranchi, Dorayi area of Kano, noon became darkness. It was on Saturday, 17 January that the blood chilling incident unfurled.

    The heinous killing of a mother and her six children shattered the Dorayi community known for its close-knit bonds, warm and peaceful routines.

    Kano state is stiff stunned, as hearts are heavy with questions hanging.

    Malam Bala Abubakar, a neighbour had pulled off his clothing to bathe when frantic shouts ripped the air. 

    He heard screams for help, a cry of “Umar, please don’t kill me.” Abubakar said he rushed out, towel still on, and joined other neighbours who had already poured into the narrow lane.

    “Some labourers painting a new building adjacent to the affected home also heard the earsplitting cries and rushed out. They alerted people that “something wrong is going on in that house.” The Ward head Ahmad Ya’u Yahaya (Gidan Kwari) also rushed to the scene.

    “Together, we rallied to render help,” another eyewitness said. But it was too late. The killers had accomplished their mission. What they saw was a scene of horror. The canvass of blood was wide. 

    Thirty-five year-old mother, Fatima Abubakar, her first and second daughters Maimuna, 17, and Aisha, 16, alongside four sons:  Bashir, 13, Abubakar, 10, Faruk, 7, and Abdulsalam -a 1 year-old baby were all massacred in cold blood.

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    The killers invaded at 12:10 pm when the husband Haruna Bashir had gone to the market, witnesses said.

    “The attackers used a sewing machine head to smash and rip open the skulls of the victims. It was an unbelievably gory sight,” Abubakar told The Nation on Monday.

    Next, the neighbours swarmed the slaughter house, held the doors, and called the police.

    The children before the incident 

    Officers, prompted by Police Commissioner Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, arrived swiftly, combing the premises in a sting operation. One of the suspects hidden in a toilet was seized for what would later be a lead to the rest.

    The dead were taken to the hospital, but none was saved.

    Soon, a funeral was held, according to Islamic rites, during which some of the perpetrators mingled with the mourners. They disguised as sympathisers at the funeral, unaware that the watchful eyes of detectives were tracking every of their moves. They were also arrested.

    Police spokesman Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa gave the names of the three killer-suspects as Umar Auwalu, 23, Isyaku Yakubu, 40, and Yakubu Abdulaziz, 21, all from Kano.

    One of them, Umar Auwalu, is a nephew to the slain mother who had begged him to spare her before he sniffed life out of her.

    The arrest of the killers, now in police custody, is a slight measure of relief to Kano people who spoke to The Nation on Monday, many calling on Governor Abba Yusuf to sign their death warrant if sentenced by the court.

  • JUST IN: Tinubu in closed-door meeting with Kano Governor, Yusuf

    JUST IN: Tinubu in closed-door meeting with Kano Governor, Yusuf

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently in a meeting with the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, at the State House, Abuja.

    The Kano governor arrived at the State House some minutes past 4 pm and was led towards the President’s office by the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila.

    The closed-door meeting comes amid speculation over a possible defection by Governor Yusuf, who was elected on the platform of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

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    It will be recalled that the national leader of the NNPP, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, had earlier dismissed reports suggesting that he approved or endorsed any planned defection by the Kano State governor, insisting that no such consent was given.

    Political watchers say talks around the reported defection have been ongoing for weeks, though sources suggest negotiations may have stalled over disagreements, including whether the governor would be granted an automatic ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The speculation has also reportedly deepened tensions between some of Governor Yusuf’s supporters and loyalists of his political mentor, Kwankwaso.

    The meeting with the President might not be unconnected with the planned defection.

    Details of the meeting are expected to emerge later.

  • Police arrest three suspects over killing of housewife, six children in Kano

    Police arrest three suspects over killing of housewife, six children in Kano

    …one of the killers is a nephew to the slain housewife

    The Kano State Police Command has arrested three principal suspects in connection with the killing of a housewife, 35-year-old Fatima Abubakar, and her six children.

    The victims were attacked in their home at Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters on Saturday, January 17, at about 12:10 pm, after the assailants reportedly forced their way into the residence of Haruna Bashir and inflicted fatal injuries using dangerous weapons.

    According to the police, Commissioner Ibrahim Adamu Bakori immediately deployed a specialised team of operatives in a coordinated sting operation, which led to the apprehension of the suspects.

    “And from 10 p.m Saturday to 4 a.m (Sunday morning) the culprits were apprehended,” police said.

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    The names of the arrested suspects were given as: Umar Auwalu, 23, of Sabuwar Gandu Quarters, Isyaku Yakubu, 40, known as “Chebe”, of Sagagi Quarters, and Yakubu Abdulaziz, 21, known as “Wawo”, of Sabon Gida Sharada Quarters, all in Kano.

    One of the killers who confess to the crime, Umar Auwalu, is a nephew of the slain housewife.

    Auwalu revealed that the same syndicate has been responsible for a series killings in the past, including the murder and burning of two housewives at Tudun Yola Quarters, Kano.

    The police detectives said they recovered four blood-stained garments, two mobile phones belonging to the victims, a cutlass, a club (Gora), a sum of money stolen from the scene, and other dangerous weapons.

    The police commissioner (Bakori) hailed the officers for the timely arrest of the killers, and commended members of the public for their support.

    Police spokesman Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa disclosed that the command acted on the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and deployed intelligence-led policing to track down the killers.

    Kiyawa said the suspects will still be investigated and charged to court, assuring that all perpetrators of crimes must be punished by the law.

  • Barau unveils large-scale empowerment programme for Kano residents

    Barau unveils large-scale empowerment programme for Kano residents

    The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has launched an extensive empowerment initiative for residents of the Kano North senatorial district.

    Announcing the scheme, his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Shitu Kunchi, said 1,300 beneficiaries from the district will receive N100,000 each month for 12 months.

    Kano North comprises 14 local government areas, including Bagwai, Bichi, Dambatta, Dawaki Tofa, Gabasawa, Gwarzo, Kabo, Karaye, Kunchi, Makoda, Rimin Gado, Shanono, Tofa, and Tsanyawa.

    Beginning in February, the initiative will provide monthly capital support to 1,300 individuals across these local governments, amounting to 18,200 beneficiaries and a total disbursement of N218.2 million over one year.

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    The programme also includes the distribution of 130 vehicles to transport associations, 1,000 motorcycles, 1,300 sewing machines with bags of flour, 1,300 bicycles, 1,300 noodle-making machines, and 1,300 deep freezers to support small-scale enterprises.

    In addition, 150 football teams will receive jerseys and balls, bringing the total to 1,950 teams across the district.

    Senator Jibrin stated that the initiative is designed to strengthen economic activity, education, and sports development in Kano North, with plans to replicate similar programmes in Kano Central and Kano South.