Headlines
CITAD rejects regulation of online TV, radio stations
Mukhtar Yahya Usman
The Center for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has criticized plans by the federal government to regulate web-based television and radio stations.
This was revealed by the Senior Program Officer of the center Isah Garba, who addressed a news conference on Monday in Kano.
Mr Garba said the attempt to regulate online news media is undemocratic.
Kano Focus recalls that Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture, had called for the regulation of social media activities including blogging and the operation of online television and radio stations in the country.
Mr Mohammed had said that allowing the social media space to remain unregulated could lead to anarchy because of its tendency to promote hate speech.
Similarly, the federal government had in November directed the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to immediately come up with regulations for the broadcast of content on the internet and the web to ensure that those who provide broadcast services online do so with responsibility.
It also instructed the commission to introduce fresh regulations that will promote the local broadcast industry and protect it from monopolistic tendencies and also ensure that all anti-competitive behaviors are deterred and sanctioned where they occur.
Mr Mohammed, who gave the directive on November 25th when he received the report of NBC Reform Implementation Committee in Abuja, said he would immediately commence the process of forwarding an Executive Bill for consideration of the Federal Executive Council and further legislative action.
However CITAD said regulating the social media and other online activities would not be a solution to hate speech, noting that fighting hate speech requires a multi stakeholder approach
“We have read the dictatorial directive of the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Muhammed to National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on the regulation of web-based broadcast medium such as radio and television.
“The directive to regulate mediums is undemocratic and we are therefore opposed to it. Contrary to Minister’s claim of creating jobs, his directive is rather going to be an obstacle to job creation and local content production,” Mr Garba said.
He added that online radio and televisions stations across the country’s cyberspace are innovative in their operations and provide means of living to numerous Nigerians apart from providing relevant and interesting content even in native languages.
He explained that Nigeria’s online population is growing on a daily basis thereby encouraging innovation in online broadcasting and boosting creativity to serve the Nigerian public well.
“Instead of bringing regulation to limit and put obstacles to operators, the Information Ministry and NBC should rather be supportive of peace and national unity promoting content.
“Our monitoring and countering of hate speech has consistently shown ethnic tension and lack of tolerance in some Nigerians as ethnic-based hate speech has been topping our monthly observatory,” the group said.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has commenced a preliminary investigation into allegations linking a person reportedly identified as one of its students to acts of online impersonation and financial misconduct circulating on social media.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, on behalf of the Registrar, the university said it had taken note of the claims being discussed in public commentary and across various online platforms.
The statement noted that BUK maintains strict standards of conduct, discipline, and character for all students throughout the duration of their studies, adding that any behaviour capable of bringing the name and reputation of the institution into disrepute is treated with the utmost seriousness.
According to the university, the alleged actions of an individual student should not be seen as a reflection of the values or character of Bayero University Kano as an institution.
“In view of the allegations, the University has commenced a preliminary inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the matter. The appropriate University authorities are reviewing the issue in line with the institution’s established rules and disciplinary procedures governing students’ conduct,” the statement said.
The management also commended the public-spirited efforts of Professor Farooq Kperogi and other individuals who provide financial assistance to students in need, particularly by supporting registration fees and other educational expenses.
The university noted that such acts of generosity continue to play an important role in expanding access to education and supporting deserving students.
BUK assured members of the public that if the allegations are substantiated, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken in accordance with the university’s regulations and relevant laws.
The institution also urged the public to allow the investigative process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or the spread of unverified information.
Ibrahim Khalil
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has relieved the State Head of Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, of his appointment with immediate effect.
KANO FOCUS reports that the development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the decision forms part of the ongoing efforts of the current administration to reposition the state civil service for greater efficiency, discipline, and improved service delivery across government institutions.
Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the outgoing Head of Service for his contributions and dedication to the service of Kano State during his tenure.
“We wish him the best in his future endeavours and pray for his continued success in all aspects of life,” the governor said.
The governor also directed that Hajiya Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, Permanent Secretary, Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, should serve as Acting Head of Service pending the appointment of a substantive replacement.
The statement further directed the outgoing Head of Service to hand over the affairs of the office to the acting Head of Service no later than Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Board Chairman of Belraados Limited and Kano State Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Dr. Goni Faruk Umar, on Saturday met with the former President of Brazil, Mr. Michel Temer, during the opening dinner of the 26th Expodireto Cotrijal in Brazil.
KANO FOCUS reports that Dr. Umar was seen exchanging a handshake with the former Brazilian leader at the event held in Não-Me-Toque, a city in the southern part of Brazil hosting the annual international agribusiness exhibition.
The Expodireto Cotrijal is one of the largest agricultural trade fairs in Latin America, attracting policymakers, agribusiness investors, researchers and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss innovations and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Participants at the event are expected to explore partnerships and share ideas aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening international cooperation in agribusiness.
BUK probes student over alleged Facebook fraud
Gov. Yusuf relieves Kano Head of Service of appointment
Disabled student seeks urgent fix for faulty elevator at Northwest University Kano
Resident raises concern over rising lawlessness, poor urban planning in Kano
Kwaru Foundation Provides Free Eye Care to Over 1,100 Residents in Kano
Lami Maccido, first person to appear on screens of NTA Kano, CTV 67, dies at 72
Kwaru Foundation Provides Free Eye Care to Over 1,100 Residents in Kano
K-SAFE commends Kano for timely school census, inclusion of non-formal education data
Kano to distribute 16,906 desks to primary schools in 13 LGAs
