Headlines
Kano sets agenda for improved revenue administration
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening revenue generation and fiscal sustainability with the official opening of the 2026 Target Setting and Retreat for revenue administration stakeholders.
KANO FOCUS reports that the retreat, themed “Tax Reform, Law Implementation, and the New Normal: Converting Challenges into Opportunities for Improved Revenue Administration,” was declared open by the Commissioner of Finance and Economic Development, Dr Ismail Aliyu Danmaraya, who delivered the keynote address at the strategic gathering.
In his remarks, Dr Danmaraya described the retreat as a critical roadmap for the 2026 fiscal year, noting that it would guide the state’s approach to revenue administration through strict enforcement of existing tax laws and the deployment of innovative technologies suited to the realities of the modern economy.
According to him, the state’s objective is to transform prevailing structural and economic challenges into opportunities for sustainable revenue growth, thereby strengthening Kano State’s fiscal resilience and capacity to meet its developmental responsibilities.
The Commissioner emphasised that the reform agenda aligns with broader efforts to improve transparency, accountability and efficiency in public finance management, while boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Dr Danmaraya attributed the success of the ongoing fiscal reforms to the leadership and political will of the Executive Governor of Kano State, His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, whose support, he said, has created an enabling environment for deep-rooted tax and revenue reforms.
He commended the Governor’s commitment to the “New Kano” project, noting that the administration’s focus on good governance has provided the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development with the leverage needed to implement policies that ensure public funds are judiciously utilised for the socio-economic empowerment of the people.
The retreat brought together key officials and stakeholders in the state’s revenue administration system to set targets, review strategies and align priorities for the 2026 fiscal year.
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.
