Headlines
Three reasons for mass deaths in Kano – Expert
Nasiru Yusuf
The director center for infectious diseases, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Isa Abubakar has identified three reasons for the high number of deaths recorded this week in Kano.
Kano Focus reports that since the COVID-19 Lockdown imposed in the state the high number of deaths recorded in Kano metropolis has become a source of worry for residents.
Even though there is not an authoritative source that keeps track of deaths in Kano, investigation by Kano Focus confirms that more than 300 mostly elderly persons have died in the metropolis within four days of the lockdown.
Mr Abubakar, a professor of public health and community medicine told Kano Focus that the increasing rate of deaths could be attributed to one of three issues.
COVID-19: Kano records 23 new cases, total hits 59
Kano Lockdown: Security personnel abandon duty – KAROTA MD
“First, they could be COVID-19 patients who were not tested, though this is insignificant. Because even in the countries with COVID-19 the percentage of deaths among infected persons is low. “Second, there are some people who need treatment for different health challenges, besides COVID-19. But the attentions of major hospitals have been shifted to COVID-19 and some patients may not even have access to the hospitals due to the traffic restrictions.
“Thirdly, people are now idle at home and therefore are free to take note of the number of deaths around them. That is why people assume there is an increasing death rate while probably there is none at all.” He said
Ministry of Health reacts
Meanwhile the Kano state ministry of health said it has commenced investigation into the matter.
A statement issued on Monday by Hadiza Namadi, the spokesperson of the ministry said the state commissioner of health Aminu Tsanyawa assured that investigation into the matter is ongoing to verify the claim and possible causes of the deaths.
He also assured that the public will be informed on the outcome of the investigation in due course.
While praying for the repose of the departed souls, the commissioner advised people to continue to observe social distancing, wash hands regularly, avoid gatherings and stay at home to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
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.