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World Aids Day: Kano HIV/AIDS patients lament stigmatization

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By Nasiru Yusuf

People living with HIV/AIDS in Kano state have complained about stigmatization against them by other members of the public, saying discrimination remains their biggest challenge.

This was revealed by Nuhu Tela Gaya, the Kano state Coordinator of Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in a news conference organized by Community Support and Development Initiative (CSADI) to commemorate the 2019 World Aids Day.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared December 1st of every year as global World AIDS Day to fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses.

Addressing journalists on Sunday Mr Gaya said many HIV positive persons are still scared of disclosing their status due to stigmatization, which he said is contributing to the spread of the virus.

He noted that although the anti-retroviral drugs (ARVs) are free, the inability of patients to afford the expensive tests for CD4 count, is exposing HIV patients to infections such as tuberculosis, cough and diarrhea.

According to him, apart from the CD4 count tests, HIV patients also need to regularly carryout PBC, liver and kidney tests, which he said are also expensive.

Mr Gaya however, thanked the Kano state government for providing HIV test kits in public hospitals.

Also the Executive Director of CSADI Hajiya Zainab Ahmad Sulaiman recalled that 20 years ago none among the HIV positive persons in Kano had the courage to reveal their status due to unbearable level of stigmatization.

“Now people are much aware that HIV is just like any other illness. One would prefer their children or their mothers to be HIV positive than diabetic or sicklers. Because HIV, if you are on treatment, eating well, life goes on, but with sicklers whatever you do, you still have problem,” she observed.

According to her, self stigma is preventing many people from seeking care, adhering to their drugs and socializing with others.

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Dangote Refinery maintains ex-depot price of PMS

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Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced that its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) remains unchanged, reaffirming its commitment to stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market.

 

In a statement issued by Esan Sunday, Head of Media Relations, Branding and Communication, the company said sustaining the current price reflects its efforts to cushion the broader economy against external shocks. It noted that by absorbing prevailing cost pressures, the refinery is helping to moderate inflationary risks, promote energy affordability, and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid ongoing global uncertainties.

 

The company reiterated its dedication to the steady supply of high-quality petroleum products to the Nigerian market, while aligning with national objectives of price stability and energy security.

 

It also urged the public to rely solely on official communications from the refinery for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its operations and pricing.

 

 

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Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor

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Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo on his emergence as the Deputy Governor of Kano State following his swearing-in on Tuesday.

 

KANO FOCUS reports that Garo was sworn in by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after being nominated to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam.

 

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Garo’s appointment as a positive step toward strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.

 

The President noted that the 48-year-old politician has held several public offices, including Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He also served as the APC governorship running mate in the 2023 general elections.

 

Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for the appointment, urging political stakeholders in the state to rally behind the administration to ensure stability and progress.

 

He also called on the new deputy governor to work closely with the governor in delivering effective leadership and accelerating development in Kano State.

 

The President wished Garo success in his new role.

 

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Ganduje acknowledges Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, 6 years after dethroning him

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Ibrahim Khalil

 

A dramatic political moment unfolded in Kano on Tuesday as former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje publicly acknowledged Muhammad Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Emirs.

 

KANO FOCUS reports that the unexpected gesture occurred during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, at Government House, Kano—an event attended by top political leaders and traditional rulers.

 

While delivering his goodwill message, Ganduje addressed Sanusi by his full royal title, drawing immediate attention from dignitaries at the ceremony. The audience responded with loud applause when he greeted the Emir and recognised his position as head of the Kano Emirate Council.

 

The development is particularly significant given the long-standing rift between the two figures. Sanusi was removed from the throne during Ganduje’s administration, a decision that sparked widespread political and legal controversy at the time.

 

However, the political landscape shifted following the emergence of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, under whose administration Sanusi was reinstated as Emir of Kano.

 

Observers say Ganduje’s public acknowledgment signals a possible easing of tensions and may point to broader efforts at reconciliation within Kano’s political and traditional institutions.

 

The moment has since been described by analysts as a “twist of fate” in Kano politics, where former rivalries appear to be giving way to cautious gestures of respect among key actors.

 

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