News
NCC commits to bridging digital gender divide
Nasiru Yusuf
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reiterated its unwavering commitment to bridging growing gender-oriented digital divide to accelerate inclusive economic prosperity for all Nigerian citizens.
KANO FOCUS reports that the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta who restated this commitment in Lagos at the 2022 Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs and Executives in Tech Summit (WEETS), Thursday, where he was conferred with the ‘Icon of Digital Revolution Award’ for his role in stimulating digital connectivity in Nigeria, said promotion of gender equality is a major component of ICT development.
He noted that the gender dimensions of ICT, manifests in access and use; capacity-building opportunities; employment and potential for empowerment, and that all these dimensions need to be explicitly identified and addressed, to leverage on technology and communication as powerful catalysts for political, economic, and social empowerment of women, and the promotion of gender equality.
Speaking to the theme of the event, “Reskilling Women and Girls to Thrive in the Digital Economy”, Danbatta, who was represented by NCC’s Head, Digital Media Management, Nafisa Usman Rugga, said the theme resonates deeply with the drive by the Federal Government to ensure an all-inclusive digital economy that drives the strategic vision plan of the Commission.
He expressed his appreciation to organizers, Techlife Media and Communications Limited, a Lagos-based media organisation, for the iconic recognition for his contribution to Nigeria’s digital progression which is an encouragement that he would dedicate to the entire NCC team of professionals that are dedicated to the digital revolution in the country.
Danbatta commended the organization for holding forth its annual gathering that pivots discussions on promotion of digital access, skills and knowledge among the women and girls in Nigeria.
Danbatta indicated that one of the ways through which the Commission strives to achieve an inclusive growth, is through increased digital connectivity to all, regardless of gender and other accidental circumstances, and that the Commission has continued to play a front-seat role in driving the implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS), 2020-2030; the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP), 2020-2025; and related policies aimed at deepening connectivity for all citizens, thereby bridging digital gender disparity.
“The NCC has put in the front burner the need to expose girls and young women to more opportunities in the digital ecosystem, in line with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) resolution 70, which advocates gender mainstreaming and promotion of gender equality, as well as the empowerment of women through information and communications technology (ICT), and we are fully committed to this,”, Danbatta said.
The organizers, while justifying the reason for conferring the award on Nigeria’s chief telecom regulator, stated that after“ reviewing the criteria set for the award, we reckon that Prof. Danbatta deserves the award for blazing the trail in accelerating digital revolution in Nigeria, especially with the historic auction of 3.5 GHz spectrum in a fair, transparent, and credible manner, and considering the various initiatives embarked upon by the Commission under his leadership, to inspire girls and women to play active roles in the evolving global digital economy,”.
Mukhtar Yahya Usman
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the Kano State Police Command to take over the investigation of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II following the violent incident that marred the Sallah celebration on March 30, 2025.
This directive replaces an earlier move by the Force Headquarters, which had invited the Emir to Abuja for questioning. That invitation has now been withdrawn, as the IGP opts for a more localized and less politically sensitive approach.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP’s decision followed consultations with key stakeholders who advised that handling the matter within Kano would help avoid escalating tensions or creating political interpretations of police action.
Tensions erupted on Sallah Day when Emir Sanusi, after attending Eid prayers barefooted, mounted a horse and led a procession through the streets — a move seen as defying a prior agreement by the two rival emirs to suspend all Durbar activities to preserve peace.
The procession allegedly involved local vigilantes and triggered clashes with youths in the area, resulting in the death of one Usman Sagiru and injuries to several others.
According to police, intelligence had earlier warned of potential conflict if the disputed emirs — Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and Alhaji Sanusi — went ahead with separate Durbar festivals.
As a preventive measure, senior officers were deployed to broker peace, leading to an agreement that no horse-riding or processions would take place.
Despite this, Emir Sanusi’s actions sparked violence, prompting police investigations and arrests.
The Force maintains that it will pursue justice with professionalism and neutrality.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has invited the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, for questioning in connection with a violent incident that occurred during the Eid-el-Fitr Sallah celebration.
KANO FOCUS recall that operatives of the Kano Police Command arrested one Usman Sagiru in connection with the alleged killing of a vigilante member, Surajo Rabiu, in an attack on the entourage of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II.
Another vigilante member, Aminu Suleman, sustained injuries and was rushed to the Murtala Mohammed Specialists Hospital, Kano, for medical treatment.
The Kano police command spokesman, SP Abdullahi Haruna, said the incident occurred while the local guards were protecting the entourage of Emir Sanusi II on their way from the Kofar Mata Eid prayer ground after observing the two rakat eid-el-fitr prayers.
In a letter addressed to Sanusi, the IG asked the Kano monarch to appear at the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja on Tuesday, April 8, to answer some questions regarding the incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration within his domain.
The letter was signed by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olajide Ibitoye, on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department.
The letter reads, “I have the directives of the Inspector General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID) to invite you for an investigative meeting with regards to an incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration within your domain.
“In view of the above, you are hereby invited to Force Intelligence Department, opposite Police Force Headquarters Area 11. Abuja by 1000hrs of Tuesday, the 8th of April, 2025. Your availability is highly sought for a purposeful investigation.”
By Naziru Idris Ya’u
In a heartwarming display of family unity and joy, Malam Salihu dan Abu Huraira’s family hosted a grand Sallah reunion, attracting relatives from across the country and beyond to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr festivities.
KANO FOCUS reports that the event, which was filled with laughter, sharing delicious food, and heartfelt conversations, showcased the enduring bond shared by Malam Salihu Dan Abu Huraira’s family.
Ismail Yusuf Ibrahim and Alhaji Ibrahim Rabiu Ibrahim
The reunion brought together descendants of six children of Malam Salihu dan Abu Huraira, creating a lively atmosphere that resonated with the spirit of Ramadan’s conclusion. As guests arrived, smiles lit up the faces of both young and old, creating an infectious energy that set the tone for a memorable gathering.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim and Ibrahim Khalil Nasir
The day commenced with delicious meals served in abundance, featuring traditional dishes that had been lovingly prepared by family members. As the aroma of the food wafted through the air, attendees gathered around large tables, sharing stories and laughter, making the shared meal a focal point for connection.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
“The joy of coming together as a family is simply unparalleled. This reunion is a reminder of our cherished values and the importance of keeping our family ties strong,” said a family member, whose eyes sparkled with happiness as he watched his loved ones interact.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
Representatives of six houses that made up the family took the stage to offer blessings and words of wisdom to the younger generations, emphasizing the significance of family unity, respect, and love. The heartfelt speeches were met with nods of appreciation, highlighting the family’s values that have been passed down through generations.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
As part of the festivities, a touching moment was held to honor the legacy of Mallam Salihu Dan Abu Huraira, a respected Islamic scholar known for his wisdom and kindness. A brief history of his life, alongside the achievements of his six children—Mallam Shu’aibu, Mallam Murtala, Malama Hadiza, Mallam Ibrahim, Mallam Idris, and Mallam Suraja—was shared, showcasing the strong roots from which the family grows.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
“This reunion symbolizes not just our connection to each other but our connection to our heritage and the values that bind us,” remarked Malama Bilkisu while sharing a lighthearted moment with family members.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
As the sun began to set, the day transitioned into a lively evening filled with games and entertainment, fostering a spirit of merriment that resonated throughout the gathering. The joyful reunion was not only a celebration of Eid-el-Fitr but also an opportunity to strengthen family ties, creating new memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
Mallam Salihu Dan Abu Huraira’s family reunion stands as a beautiful testament to the enduring strength of family bonds, a heartwarming reminder of the importance of love, togetherness, and gratitude, especially during festive occasions.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
The family which initially originated from Tsakuwa town in Dawakinkudu local government area of Kano state, had spread across Northern Nigeria, Republic of Tchad, Sudan, Central African Republic and Saudi Arabia.
Cross section of descendants of Malam Salihu dan Abu Hurairah
IGP Orders Kano Police to Investigate Emir Sanusi, Withdraws Invitation from Force HQ
Sallah Durbar: IGP invites Emir Sanusi over violent incident
Sallah Reunion: How Malam Salihu dan Abu Huraira’s Family celebrated Eid-el-Fitr
Gov Yusuf condoles with Emir Sanusi, APC Chairman over Galadiman Kano’s death
President Tinubu mourns Galadiman Kano, Abbas Sanusi
Book Review: Quintessential Elegance in Islamic Scholarship, Sheikh Ibrahim Khaleel
Emir Sanusi II Calls for Justice Over Killing of Kano Indigenes in Edo
Emir Sanusi II Warns Against Internal Betrayal and External Meddling in Kano
Kwankwaso condemns killing of Northern travelers in Edo
