By Aliyu Askira, Kano

The Kano State Government has finally announced that the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Lamido Sanusi II, will lead this year’s Eid-el-Fitr Durbar, even as it unveiled strict guidelines to prevent a breakdown of law and order during the celebrations.

In a statement yesterday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government said it remained committed to preserving Kano’s cultural heritage but would prioritize peace and security.

The government said the decision, approved by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, followed credible intelligence reports indicating attempts by some individuals to create unrest during the Sallah period, if more than one Emir is allowed to organize Sallah Durbar.

According to the statement, Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar) will be conducted by Emir Sanusi from the Kofar Mata Eid Ground through designated routes to Gidan Shettima, terminating at Kofar Fatalwa of the emir’s palace.

It added that Hawan Nasarawa would be held in a modified form without horseback displays, while Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau and Hawan Dorayi have been suspended for the time being in the interest of public safety.

The government said all security agencies had been directed to intensify surveillance and ensure strict compliance with the directives before, during and after the festive period.

It urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies, while cautioning against the spread of unverified information.

The government further assured the public of its commitment to a peaceful and hitch-free Sallah celebration, wishing Muslims in the state a joyous Eid-el-Fitr.

The clarification is coming on the heels of an earlier letter by the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, to the State Commissioner of Police and other security agencies informing them of preparations to stage the 2026 Sallah Durbar celebrations despite the lingering Emirship dispute within the emirate.

The Sallah Durbar in Kano is regarded as one of the most prominent cultural events in northern Nigeria, attracting thousands of residents and visitors who gather to witness colourful displays of horsemanship, traditional regalia and royal pageantry.

Gov. Otu Assures Navy of Stronger Partnership

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar

Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, declaring that “security remains the foundation upon which every meaningful development must stand,” as he received Commodore Shuaib Ahmed , Commandant of NNS Victory, on a courtesy visit at Government House, Calabar.

Welcoming the naval chief, Governor Otu expressed delight at the visit, describing it as “a significant step in consolidating the enduring partnership between Cross River State and the Nigerian Navy.” He added, “Your presence here today is not only symbolic of institutional respect but also a reaffirmation of our shared resolve to keep our state safe and secure.”

The governor stressed that peace and stability remain non-negotiable prerequisites for progress, noting that “no society can truly prosper where insecurity thrives.” According to him, “our vision for Cross River is anchored on sustainable development, and that vision can only be realised in an atmosphere of peace, order, and collective vigilance.”

Commending the professionalism of the Navy, he stated, “We must place on record our deep appreciation for the sacrifices and discipline of officers and men of the Nigerian Navy. Your role, particularly within our maritime corridors, has been instrumental in curbing criminality and boosting confidence in our economic environment.”

Governor Otu further emphasized the importance of synergy, declaring that “security is not the sole responsibility of any single agency; it is a shared duty that requires cooperation, trust, and constant communication.” He assured the Navy that “this administration will continue to provide the necessary support to enhance your operational effectiveness within the limits of available resources.”

Governor Otu assured that the issues raised would receive due consideration, stating, “We recognize the critical role you play, and we will continue to engage constructively to ensure that your operations are not hindered.” He concluded, “Together, through sustained collaboration and shared commitment, we will build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Cross River State.”

Earlier in his remarks, Commodore Shuaibu explained that the visit was in line with military tradition and personal responsibility. “Having recently assumed command, it is only proper that I pay my respects to Your Excellency and formally introduce myself,” he said. “It is also important that we align our operational focus with the strategic priorities of the state government.”

The Commandant expressed gratitude for the support extended to the Navy, noting that “the cooperation we have received from your administration has significantly enhanced our ability to discharge our duties effectively.” He added, “We do not take this partnership for granted, and we remain committed to sustaining it.”

Highlighting operational needs, Commodore Shuaibu stated, “Your Excellency, as security challenges evolve, there is a growing need to strengthen our infrastructure and communication systems.” He further noted, “The operationalisation of key naval facilities will greatly improve our capacity to address both legal and illegal activities within our maritime domain.”

Reaffirming the Navy’s readiness, he declared, “The Nigerian Navy stands ready, willing, and able to support the Cross River State Government in ensuring that our people can go about their lawful activities without fear.” He added, “In whatever capacity we are required, we will continue to render our services in the interest of peace and national security.”

Tinubu Administration has Given Nigeria Back its Lost Hope, Says Wike

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, said he is very happy and proud that he is part of this Renewed Hope Administration which has given Nigeria back the lost hope.

Wike stated this after inspecting the ongoing projects in Kaura, Apo-Karshi, Ushafa, Bwari, etc in Abuja.

He said he is very happy to serve, and anytime he sees the happiness in the faces of the people of Abuja, he is motivated to do more

“The motivation is for you to serve. I’m happy to serve. I’m happy that I’m part of this Renewed Hope Administration which has given Nigeria back the lost hope.

“You can see the happiness in the people who were at Kaura. The entire length of the road at Kaura is 13 kilometers. And so when we went to Apo karshi, you can see the quality of the contract, that road is not less than 13 kilometers too.

“Then when I came to Bwari, to Ushafa, you can see how happy the residents there were. Everyone has seen that in their life and it is one of those things that the president has said we must touch on all the satellite towns now. You can imagine how they feel for the first time. I’m sure they have seen the road that will bring development to those communities”.

“So, by and large, we’re happy with what we’re doing because the people are happy. When the people are happy, obviously, you have no choice but to be happy to know that the government is very impactful in their lives, the economy will change, as well as the governance”, he said.

The FCT Minister therefore said he is happy with the pace and the quality of the jobs.

He recalled the instructions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, when he became Minister, that he must ensure the satellite towns.

“And, like I said before, when the president was inaugurated, he appointed us. One of the things he said is there’s an over-concentration of development in the city. You have to go down to the satellite towns. That alone will help to discourage urban migration and rural-urban drift.

“People can now go from Kuje and go to work in the city. And so, it will take 35 minutes, you’re already in the city, so why do you have to say that you won’t stay in Kuje?”

On complaints he said, “Of course. In fact, there are some complaints that have come and we have been able to tackle it by making sure that the estate developers return funds to the innocent Nigerians that they tried to collect money from”.

On his message for Ramadan, the FCT Minister said, Abuja residents should expect more infrastructure and improvements in security.

‎”They should expect more infrastructure. In terms of security, we are going to improve the security as it is today.

“‎I wish everybody a happy Ramadan”.

The Federal Government has secured a partnership deal with Coventry University under a Transnational Education (TNE) arrangement to establish a campus in Nigeria for the delivery of affordable and globally recognized degrees.

The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja through Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education.

Alausa, who is currently in the United Kingdom accompanying President Bola Tinubu, said he had engaged with UK university leadership, key investors, and development partners to drive the initiative.

He said the proposed campus would be located in Alaro City, Lagos State, and would offer Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM), Business, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training.

According to him, the degrees would be equivalent to those awarded in the United Kingdom, with admissions expected to commence between the third and fourth quarters of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

The minister said the initiative was designed to expand access to world-class education at reduced cost, while strengthening skills development and improving graduate employability.

He added that the programme would enable Nigerian students to study locally while receiving international-standard education.

Alausa noted that the partnership, supported by the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, underscored the government’s commitment to positioning Nigeria as a hub for knowledge, skills, and innovation. 

Former Attorney-general of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami who has been granted bail after meeting bail conditions has thanked members of his family, political allies, associates, and supporters for standing by him during what he described as a “difficult period”.

Malami who specifically appreciated several political figures for their support, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar; Nasir el-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna; Rotimi Amaechi, former minister of transportation; Peter Obi, 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate; and Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Sokoto and others like Kashim Imam, Lawal Batagarawa, Lauretta Onochie, and Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesperson of the African Democratic Party (ADC), together with his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abdulaziz, are facing a 16-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering, preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The former minister was later remanded in Kuje prison, having been rearrested on January 19 by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after his release from the prison.

On January 21, Malami accused the DSS of denying him access to his family members and legal team.

On February 27, a federal high court in Abuja granted bail to Malami and his son, in the sum of N200 million each, over alleged terrorism-related offences.

He has recently fulfilled the bail conditions and regained freedom.

In a thank you message issued by Mohammed Doka, his media aide, and posted by the former minister on his Facebook page after release from custody, Malami expressed appreciation to Nigerians who, according to him, resisted “media trials, sensational narratives, and prejudgment.”

 “I extend my profound and heartfelt gratitude to my family, friends, political associates, and countless well-meaning Nigerians who stood firm with me through this difficult period, refusing to be blinded by media trials, sensational narratives, and prejudgment,” the message reads.

“Your prayers, words of encouragement, quiet solidarity, and unwavering belief in due process strengthened my resolve and reaffirmed my faith in justice and the conscience of our nation.”

He also acknowledged several political figures for their support, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar; Nasir el-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna; Rotimi Amaechi, former minister of transportation; Peter Obi, 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate; and Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Sokoto.

Others are Kashim Imam, Lawal Batagarawa, and Lauretta Onochie, and Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesperson of the African Democratic Party (ADC).

Malami said their “courage, support, and principled intervention” reinforced his belief in justice and fairness.

“However, beyond gratitude lies a greater responsibility. The struggle for justice, accountability, and national redemption is only just beginning,” he added.

“Today, our country faces one of the gravest moments in its history. Our nation needs courageous voices, principled leadership, and citizens who refuse to surrender their future to despair or intimidation.

“I therefore invite all well-meaning Nigerians to join me in this noble task of rebuilding hope, restoring justice, and defending the dignity of our great nation.

“Let it be clearly understood that the struggle is just beginning, and together we must rise with courage, conviction, and faith to reclaim the promise of Nigeria. No retreat, no surrender.”