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Opinion

New Naira note: Thank You, CBN

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Dr. Aliyu Umar Tilde 

I have been an advocate of a cashless Nigeria—or of minimum cash at least. That would be one of the greatest changes we would witness. Even for us who have seen many since the 1960s, this would truly be transformative.

The 47 days ultimatum is not an inch, but kilometers closer to that target. It is necessary from the administrative, economic and security points of view.

Even without giving the Naira a facelift, I was earlier this year advocating for a maximum cash withdrawal limit of N10,000. That would make all cash-based corrupt practices difficult, stabilize the Naira substantially, stamp out kidnapping, robbery, drugs, and many crimes. Cash is the oxygen of evil in our society. Withhold it and you will enjoy watching many criminals suffocate. The additional benefits of bringing mass numbers into the formal sector are also there.

Two things have been driving kidnapping. The GSM and Cash. Without contact with the relatives of the victim, there would be no kidnapping. And without cash available, the kidnapper is left with the option of not to kidnap at all or with the conundrum of kill-or-release, with no benefit either way. After a short while, it will be a worthless venture and abandoned.

I today run a cashless Ministry of Education and I know how sweet it is for a contractor, principal or labourer to get his FULL pay as he sits at home without suffering the risk and cost of distance. Executives can instantly receive the alerts of any deduction done. How beautiful! It is also sweet when every kobo can be easily be traced to the last beneficiary at any given time.

The CBN is right. The limited cash policy cannot not take off well unless the apex Bank smokes out the cash presently in circulation. So which way is better than face-lifting the currency? All of it will be delivered to the Bank and then it will give us the cap of limited cash to wear and the bullion van drivers can go to sleep.

It could be tasking to many though. But that is the nature of all the changes we have witnessed before. They come with initial difficulty but end with a smooth ride of progress.

The elite often cites rural folks are often cited as would be victims, forgetting whether the masses are happier with the ongoing kidnapping for cash. The Bank is giving them a choice between cash and security of their lives. We the elite are choosing the cash for them. Haba. The shock of 1984 may not be there after all. We have 47 days, not just a week.

Let us  wake up. Nigeria today is not the one of 1984. So many things have changed. It used to take me hours to withdraw N100 from my bank at Gusau Rd, Sokoto, in 1984. Today, one can send N10million with a tap of a finger on his mobile phone. It used to take a month to send N100 between Bauchi and Jos twenty years ago. Not anymore.

Let us embrace progress. Let us be positive about it and positive things will come. It is indeed a blessing to witness so much change in a life time. Alhamdulillah.

Dr. Aliyu U. Tilde,
Is a Commissioner of Education,
Bauchi State.
28 October 2022.

This piece was first published on his Facebook account.

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Opinion

Support for President Tinubu’s Policies and Call for the Appointment of Hisham Habib as Political Adviser

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By Auwal Dankano

 

We, a coalition of concerned citizens and political stakeholders, express our unwavering support for the bold and decisive policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at revitalizing our nation and securing a prosperous future for all Nigerians.

President Tinubu’s commitment to economic reform, infrastructural development, and social welfare initiatives demonstrates a clear vision for progress. We commend his administration’s efforts to address the challenges facing our country, and we believe that with continued dedication and strategic leadership, Nigeria will overcome these obstacles and achieve its full potential.

In light of the recent resignation of Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as Political Adviser, we urge President Tinubu to consider the appointment of Hisham Habib as his successor. Hisham Habib is a seasoned political strategist with a proven track record of effective communication, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the Nigerian political landscape make him an ideal candidate to serve as a trusted advisor to the President.

Hisham Habib’s qualifications include: A degree in English and attended courses in politics and journalism in both local and overseas. He works with media houses up to the level of managing editor, and he was the first set of publishers of online newspapers in Nigeria.

 

He also served a the Director media of NNPP presidential and govarnatorial election, as well as appointed as Managing Director of Kano State own Radio station.

 

Many remember him as the pioneer chairman of NNPP, Kano state chapter , whose political expertise help the party win the number one seat in Kano.

 

As he decamped to the ruling APC, he build a strong chain , that will make our great party victorious at the fourth coming elections.

 

We believe that Hisham Habib’s appointment would strengthen the President’s advisory team and enhance the effective implementation of his administration’s agenda. His expertise in political strategy and his commitment to national development align perfectly with President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria.

We call upon President Tinubu to give serious consideration to Hisham Habib’s candidacy and to appoint him as Political Adviser. We are confident that his contributions will be invaluable in advancing the President’s goals and ensuring the success of his administration.

 

We also want to call the attention of Mr President to consider Auwal Dankano for a national assignment. Auwal is the chairman of Rwinwin, a movement that worked tirelessly toward the success of president Tunubu in the last elections year.

 

Dankano is a quantity surveyor, with over two decades of field experience, and always promote APC and President Tunubu masses oriented policies.

 

Ha was a board member of Kano Micro finance, as well as Representative of Kano State , in Northern Governor’s Forum.

 

We reaffirm our unwavering support for President Tinubu and his efforts to build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.

 

 

Auwal Dankano
National Chairman
APC Forum of Intellectuals.

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Opinion

K-SAFE mourns death of Dr. Auwalu Inusa Mohammed

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Dr. Auwalu Halilu

 

 

Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un.

It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that the Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) receives the sad news of the passing of our dear friend, mentor, and a tireless champion of education and development, Dr. Auwalu Inusa Mohammed, former Chairman of the Education Support Group (ESG).

Dr. Auwalu was not only a pillar in the education sector but a beacon of hope and resilience for all who believed in the power of knowledge and community development. His wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to improving educational outcomes have left an indelible mark on our state and beyond.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire development community. His legacy of service, advocacy, and dedication to humanity will continue to inspire us.

May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, grant him Jannatul Firdaus, and give his loved ones the strength to bear this great loss.

Dr. Auwalu Halilu
Co-Chair (CSOs),
Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE) . 

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Opinion

K-SAFE felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Fitr

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Dr. Auwalu Halilu

 

Bismillah Rahmanir Raheem

On this joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the good people of Kano State, particularly education stakeholders, parents, teachers, and students. May this Eid bring peace, prosperity, and countless blessings to us all.

 

As we celebrate the completion of Ramadan, a month of sacrifice, reflection, and self-discipline, let us carry forward its invaluable lessons into our collective commitment to education. Just as Ramadan teaches us patience, perseverance, and generosity, we must apply these virtues in ensuring that every child, especially the most vulnerable, has access to quality education.

Education is the key to sustainable development, and our duty as a society is to nurture a system that is inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the needs of our children. The spirit of Ramadan encourages us to be more compassionate and proactive in addressing societal challenges. Let this spirit guide our continuous advocacy for improved educational policies, increased access to learning opportunities, and enhanced support for teachers and students.

As we mark this blessed day, I urge all stakeholders, government agencies, civil society organizations, community leaders, and development partners to renew their commitment to strengthening education in Kano State. Together, let us translate the lessons of sacrifice, discipline, and generosity into actionable steps toward building a future where every child has a fair chance to learn and thrive.

 

Eid Mubarak! May Allah (SWT) bless our efforts and grant us success in our quest for an enlightened and educated society.

 

Dr. Auwalu Halilu, is a Co-Chair (CSOs), Kano State Accountability Forum on Education (K-SAFE). 

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