Headlines
Emir Sanusi Calls for Reinstatement of National Amirul Hajj to Strengthen Pilgrimage Leadership
The Emir of Kano, His Highness Malam Muhammad Sanusi II, has called on the Federal Government to reinstate the position of a National Amirul Hajj, a revered tradition that once provided strong leadership and coordination for Nigerian pilgrims during the annual Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
In a statement signed by the Kano Pligrims spokesperson Sulaiman Dederi the Emir made the appeal Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board at his palace.
He emphasized the historic and spiritual importance of appointing a National Amirul Hajj, describing the role as deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and dating back to the era of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), who advocated for the appointment of leaders to guide pilgrims on their sacred journey.
“This is a time-honored Islamic practice that ensures order, discipline, and effective representation of our nation during the Hajj exercise,” the Emir stated. “Reviving this position is not just symbolic—it is necessary for the spiritual, administrative, and diplomatic success of our pilgrimage missions.”
The Emir further stressed that the consistent appointment of a National Amirul Hajj would enhance Nigeria’s coordination during Hajj operations and ensure the welfare of pilgrims across all states.
Earlier, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Lamin Rabi’u Danbappa, informed the Emir that the Board was at the palace to formally invite him to attend the final Hajj demonstration scheduled at the Hajj Camp in Kano.
He disclosed that all preparations had been finalized for the airlift of pilgrims from the state, which is set to begin on May 13, 2025.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Alhaji Yusif Lawan, commended the Emir for his consistent support and advocacy for the welfare of pilgrims.
He joined the call for the Federal Government to prioritize the reappointment of a National Amirul Hajj, saying it would further solidify Nigeria’s image and leadership among the global Muslim community.
The visit reflects a growing call among Hajj stakeholders for stronger central coordination of the pilgrimage, especially as thousands of Nigerian Muslims prepare for this year’s journey to the Holy Land.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday received a delegation from the Association of Kano Business Community at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, during a thank-you visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
KANO FOCUS reports that the delegation expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its support to traders and other victims affected by the recent fire incident that razed several sections of the popular Singer Market in Kano.
Speaking during the meeting, the Vice President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to collaborating with the Kano State Government and relevant agencies to prevent a recurrence of fire outbreaks in markets across the state.
He assured the delegation that President Tinubu has the interests of Kano people at heart, noting that the N5 billion approved as immediate relief for victims was based on the findings of a preliminary assessment of the damage caused by the inferno.
Shettima reiterated that the Federal Government would continue to support efforts aimed at restoring commercial activities and strengthening safety measures in markets to protect lives and property.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Government has inaugurated a 23-member committee to oversee the transparent and equitable distribution of financial assistance and relief materials to victims of the recent Singer Market fire disaster.
KANO FOCUS reports that the inauguration was carried out on behalf of the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Faruq Ibrahim, who chairs the committee. The event was presided over by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude.
According to the Attorney-General, the committee comprises representatives from key government agencies, security services, the Kano Emirate Council, religious leaders, and affected traders.
He said the panel’s mandate includes assessing the extent of losses, verifying genuine victims, ensuring timely distribution of support, and recommending measures to prevent future fire incidents.
The intervention follows support approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as contributions from the APC Governors Forum. It also comes in addition to earlier assistance provided by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting victims of the disaster and restoring commercial activities at Singer Market.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Government has announced Saturday, March 1, 2026, as the commencement date for the Eid-el-Fitr break for all public and private primary and post-primary schools in the state.
KANO FOCUS reports that the announcement, contained in the approved 2025/2026 academic calendar, applies to both day and boarding schools across the state.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Enlightenment, Musbahu Aminu Yakasai, parents and guardians of pupils and students in boarding schools are expected to convey their wards home by the early hours of Friday, February 28, 2026.
The statement further explained that boarding school students are to resume on Sunday, March 22, 2026, while day students are to resume on Monday, March 23, 2026.
It added that the second term will continue from Sunday, March 22, 2026, and end on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
The government directed all public and private schools in the state to comply strictly with the directive, warning that non-compliance would be treated as a breach of government instructions.
The Commissioner for Education, Ali Haruna Abubakar Makoda, urged parents and guardians to ensure full compliance with the approved resumption dates.
He appreciated parents and residents of the state for their continued cooperation and support to the ministry, and wished pupils and students a successful completion of the Ramadan fast and hitch-free Sallah celebrations.
Kano business community thanks FG for N5bn Singer market relief
Kano Govt inaugurates 23-member committee to disburse Singer market fire relief
Kano Govt announces March 1 for schools’ Ramadan break
NCC board chair hosts licensed telecoms operators in Lagos
Stakeholders seek stronger nutrition financing at local government level
Lami Maccido, first person to appear on screens of NTA Kano, CTV 67, dies at 72
Governor Yusuf Appoints Acting DG for Pilgrims Board, Names Provost for Anti-Corruption Institute
Kano govt investigates reported disease outbreak in Garko community
K-SAFE appeals to Kano Executive Council to pass revised education bill
