Headlines
LG Election: Ganduje directs compulsory drug test for contestants
Nasiru Yusuf
Governor Abdullahi Ganduje has directed all cleared contestants in the forthcoming local government elections scheduled to hold January 16 to be subjected to a compulsory drug test.
The state commissioner for information, Muhammad Garba, disclosed this on Thursday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the state Executive Council Meeting held at the Government House, Kano.
According to Mr Garba, the decision was part of the government’s policies to rid Kano of illicit substance abuse.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to tackle drug abuse among political leaders.
He said the government would not hesitate to issue necessary disciplinary measures against ”anyone found with the trace of illicit substance including a compulsory recommendation for rehabilitation”.
Mr Garba also announced the council has approved the change in the bill amending the name of the state Entrepreneurial and Skill Acquisition Centre Nill 2019 to Dangote Skills Acquisition Centre 2020.
This he said is to encourage other philanthropists to emulate the business mogul’s contribution to economic development and empowerment of the people.
The commissioner said the bill would be transmitted to the state House of Assembly for substitution and possible passage.
He revealed that approval has also been given by the council for the ratification of the executive approval for maintenance works on 14 selected metropolitan roads through direct labour at the sum of N40.5 million.
Mr Garba also announced that the council has approved the release of N99.2 million for the completion of ”some office blocks and other construction works at the state Qur’anic and Islamiyya Schools Board”.
The council, he said, has also given approval for the takeoff the newly established Policy Strategy, Implementation and Evaluation Directorate and the release of N11.6 million for the purchase of furniture, equipment and stationery, including N25.6 million for the provision of ICT infrastructure.
Headlines
BUK probes student over alleged Facebook fraud
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.
Headlines
Gov. Yusuf relieves Kano Head of Service of appointment
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.
Headlines
ACF Kano chair, meets former Brazilian president Temer at agribusiness exhibition
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.
