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
BUK reintroduces remedial programme
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Vice Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, has announced the reintroduction of remedial programme which was suspended over a decade ago.
KANO FOCUS reports that the Vice Chancellor announced the plan at the 59th Congregation meeting of the university on Saturday.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted the key factors that prompted the reintroduction including the decline in enrolment in Basic Science programmes.
He said the University has observed a noticeable decrease in student enrolments in these areas, and the remedial programme is expected to address this challenge by preparing students for science-based courses.
The Vice Chancellor pointed out that many prospective students from the University’s catchment area struggle to meet entry requirements for science programmes.
The remedial programme will provide these candidates with the necessary academic support to address their deficiencies, thereby increasing their chances of gaining admission into the University.
“We appreciate your support as we work towards reinstating this vital programme, which promises to enhance the academic prospects of our students and contribute to the overall development of Bayero University, Kano,” the Vice Chancellor stated.
KANO FOCUS reports that the reintroduction of the remedial programme is seen as a strategic move to bolster academic performance and widen access to higher education for students within the University’s catchment area.
Headlines
2025 Budget: Tsakuwa Community asks Govt’s intervention in schools
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Tsakuwa Mufarka Development Association appealed to Kano state government to construct a library and renovate the science laboratory at Tsakuwa Senior Secondary School.
KANO FOCUS reports that the secretary of the association, Comrade Abdulrashid Salisu Babah made the request during 2025 budget public hearing held on Thursday.
According to the secretary of the association, Taskuwa Mufarka is calling on Kano state government to construct a road from Tsakuwa to Lahira, Tsakuwa to Sabon Garin Dalladi to Mazabar Gano, Tsakuwa to Mazabar Yargaya, as well as installation of two transformers.
“We are also appealing for the provision of solar-powered lights and sick bay at Tsangaya Islamiyya Boarding Primary School among others.
“We pray that Allah will assist this government to make it beneficial to the community,” the association appealed.
Headlines
8 Kano Pilllars players suffer injury ahead of Shooting Stars clash
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Kano Pilllars will be without the services of eight key players as they prepare to face Shooting Stars Sporting Club (3SC) in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 17 clash.
KANO FOCUS reports that the encounter is scheduled for Saturday evening, December 14, 2024, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.
Technical Adviser Usman Shariff Abdallah has expressed concern over the absentees but remains hopeful for a strong performance.
In their previous match against Katsina United, the Sai Masu Gida missed seven first-team players, including Super Eagles Captain Ahmed Musa, Shehu Abdullahi, Zulkifilu Muhammed, and Sudais Ali Baba, all sidelined by injuries.
Meanwhile, club legend Rabiu Ali, Nelson Abiam and Aminu Adam Sani were on national duty with the Super Eagles home-based squad preparing for the CHAN24 playoff against Ghana.
Adding to their woes, dependable center-back Habibu Yakubu will also miss Saturday’s game due to the accumulation of five yellow cards, further depleting the squad.
This situation has left Abdallah relying on younger players, with 75% of the traveling squad comprising players promoted from the club’s youth system.
The four-times Nigerian champions are currently sits 8th on the NPFL table with 22 points from 15 matches and a game in hand.
They will aim to build on their narrow 1-0 victory over Katsina United last weekend, hoping to climb further up the standings. The match is set to kick off at 5:30 PM on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Lekan Salami Stadium.