Headlines
2023 Hajj: First batch of Kano pilgrims set to depart Saudi Arabia
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The first batch of Kano pilgrims, who performed this year’s Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has on Saturday left Makka en route to Nigeria.
KANO FOCUS reports that they left Makka to King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, at about ten o’clock Saudi time Saturday morning.
Their flight is expected to take off in the evening on the same day.

The process of their departure started on Friday Night with the screening of their hand luggage to ensure compliance with National Hajj Commission’s policy.

On Saturday morning the pilgrims along with their hand luggage assemble to board luxurious buses to King Abdulaziz International Airport Jeddah.
Some of the pilgrims interviewed Zubairu Hudu Sani from Doguwa, Sirajo Hudu from Tudunwada, Maryam Abdullahi Garun Malam and Hadiza Hamisu from Bebeji local governments thanked Almighty Allah for granting them the golden opportunity to performed pilgrimage and commended Governor Yusuf for a hitch free Hajj.

In an interview with journalists shortly after bidding a farewell to the pilgrims, the Director operations, Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Panda expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful operations.
Alhaji Panda said every pilgrim is expected to spend a minimum of 40 days to 43 days in the Holy Land before he or she would be airlifted back to Nigeria.
According to him the return home journey would be strictly on the initial sequence of pilgrims’ journey to the Holy land, ‘first come first leave’ principle to be fair in discharging the duty,
“The tradition of first come, first return will be observed as a principle and in line with the Saudi guidelines for fairness and equity,” he said.
While appealing to pilgrims and the operators to conduct the home-bound journeys orderly, he, however, revealed that the state Pilgrims Welfare Board under the able leadership of Alhaji Laminu Rabiu is working round the clock to ensure a successful pilgrimage.
The Director expressed appreciation to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his support towards the success of this year’s Hajj exercise.
The second and third batch of Kano pilgrims are expected to leave Makka on Monday July 17th.
KANO FOCUS reports that recalled that the inaugural flight of this year’s Pilgrims left Kano to Saudi Arabia on Monday June 5th, 2023.
Headlines
Dangote Refinery maintains ex-depot price of PMS
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has announced that its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) remains unchanged, reaffirming its commitment to stability in Nigeria’s domestic energy market.
In a statement issued by Esan Sunday, Head of Media Relations, Branding and Communication, the company said sustaining the current price reflects its efforts to cushion the broader economy against external shocks. It noted that by absorbing prevailing cost pressures, the refinery is helping to moderate inflationary risks, promote energy affordability, and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid ongoing global uncertainties.
The company reiterated its dedication to the steady supply of high-quality petroleum products to the Nigerian market, while aligning with national objectives of price stability and energy security.
It also urged the public to rely solely on official communications from the refinery for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its operations and pricing.
Headlines
Tinubu congratulates Garo on appointment as Kano deputy governor
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo on his emergence as the Deputy Governor of Kano State following his swearing-in on Tuesday.
KANO FOCUS reports that Garo was sworn in by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after being nominated to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Garo’s appointment as a positive step toward strengthening unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State.
The President noted that the 48-year-old politician has held several public offices, including Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during the administration of former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He also served as the APC governorship running mate in the 2023 general elections.
Tinubu commended Governor Yusuf for the appointment, urging political stakeholders in the state to rally behind the administration to ensure stability and progress.
He also called on the new deputy governor to work closely with the governor in delivering effective leadership and accelerating development in Kano State.
The President wished Garo success in his new role.
Headlines
Ganduje acknowledges Sanusi II as Emir of Kano, 6 years after dethroning him
Ibrahim Khalil
A dramatic political moment unfolded in Kano on Tuesday as former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje publicly acknowledged Muhammad Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Emirs.
KANO FOCUS reports that the unexpected gesture occurred during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, at Government House, Kano—an event attended by top political leaders and traditional rulers.
While delivering his goodwill message, Ganduje addressed Sanusi by his full royal title, drawing immediate attention from dignitaries at the ceremony. The audience responded with loud applause when he greeted the Emir and recognised his position as head of the Kano Emirate Council.
The development is particularly significant given the long-standing rift between the two figures. Sanusi was removed from the throne during Ganduje’s administration, a decision that sparked widespread political and legal controversy at the time.
However, the political landscape shifted following the emergence of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, under whose administration Sanusi was reinstated as Emir of Kano.
Observers say Ganduje’s public acknowledgment signals a possible easing of tensions and may point to broader efforts at reconciliation within Kano’s political and traditional institutions.
The moment has since been described by analysts as a “twist of fate” in Kano politics, where former rivalries appear to be giving way to cautious gestures of respect among key actors.
