Headlines
Why Kano power project is yet to be completed–Water resources minister
Abubakar Abdulkadir Dangambo
The Federal Government has explained that the ongoing Kano state independent power project could not be completed because the state government has not specified the amount of water it needs to power the plant from Tiga Dam.
Kano Focus reports that the Tiga and Challawa hydro-power plants, which were designed to collectively generate about 35 mega watts of electricity, were initiated by former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso in 2013 at the cost of N14 billion.
In October 2019, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje had said his government was trying to secure a permission for the use of Tiga Dam from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources before the project could be completed.
The governor had explained that when completed, the 10 megawatt capacity Tiga project would “take care of the industrial sector of the state”.
“Our state will bounce back to its industrial might. These 10 megawatts, as we mentioned will take care of our industries and street lights in the metropolis.
“Our priority is to make sure that problem of electricity supply is washed aside. When investment will also thrive in the state. We are simply creating more enabling environment for businesses to bounce back. Other small businesses will also thrive and that will go a long way in addressing unemployment problem among our people,” he had said.
“We are about to get that permission from federal government. We are in touch with the federal Ministry of Water Resources. So very soon this project will see the light of the day,” Mr Ganduje added.
However, in a phone interview with KANO FOCUS on Tuesday, Suleiman Adamu, the Minister of Water Resources, said an agreement would soon be reached with the Kano government once it provided details of its water requirement from the Tiga Dam.
Mr Adamu said they are currently waiting for the state government to respond to a set of guidelines issued by his ministry before getting the required amount of water supply from Tiger Dam for the power station.
’’There are rules and procedures for using dams, you must be sure that the amount of water that will be for consumption purpose is safe, then the issue of irrigation should be taking into consideration and then you talk of generating power. In fact you need to know how many litters or gallons you need, so this is what we are waiting from Kano state government’’ he said.
“I was informed recently that, the state government has already sent a letter to us indicating that they have agree to all the terms and guidelines.
“I also visited the independent power station site as you said the project is about 80 to 90 percent completion stage.
“So any moment from now we can meet and sign the agreement. As soon as that is achieved, we can give them water, but we will make sure our irrigation and water supply systems are not affected,” the minister added.
Mr Adamu also debunked rumors that the federal government is planning to privatize all dams across the country.
Headlines
Dangote Refinery maintains ex-depot price of PMS
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.
Headlines
Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor
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.
Headlines
Ganduje acknowledges Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, 6 years after dethroning him
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.
