News
Ajrena Foods commissions Peanut Processing Facility in Kano
Aminu Abdullahi
In a major stride toward strengthening agricultural development and economic growth in Kano State, the state government has formally participated in the commissioning of Ajrena Foods Limited, a peanut-processing company built to meet international standards while creating lasting economic benefits for local farmers and communities.
KANO FOCUS reports that the commissioning ceremony, held on Wednesday, marked the official launch of the company’s operations.
The facility was established with the support of Propcom+, an initiative funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Speaking at the occasion, the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Danjuma Mahmud represented by Coordinator special agro processing zone SAPZ Kano Aminu Iliyasu described the factory as a catalyst for further industrial investment in the state.
He noted that the facility would play a pivotal role in transforming the agricultural value chain through modern technology and innovation, with significant potential for job creation, increased revenue generation, and expanded market access for local products.
Iliyasu urged all stakeholders to ensure the factory operates at full capacity and consistently produces high-quality products that can compete globally.
He further revealed that under the leadership of Governor Engr. Abba K. Yusuf, the state is reviving its groundnut processing industry through the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme. As part of the initiative, a dedicated Agricultural Transformation Center (ATC) is set to be developed in Dawanau, Dawakin Tofa LGA, for the aggregation and primary processing of groundnuts.
Additionally, a state-of-the-art Agro-Industrial Hub (AIH) is proposed for Bagauda in Bebeji LGA, which will handle final processing of crops such as groundnuts, rice, tomatoes, and sesame.
Dr. Adiya Ode, Political Director and Team Lead at Propcom Plus, stated that the organization partnered with Ajrena Foods by providing both financial support and technical assistance in building the facility and establishing a robust local supply chain. She emphasized the company’s impact in creating opportunities for local farmers to benefit directly from the facility.
Ajrena Foods Executive Director Ajay Ramnani shared that the company’s first outgrower scheme, launched in 2024, trained over 1,000 farmers primarily women and youth in best agricultural practices, with inputs provided and product traceability established from farm to factory. This, he said, ensures the company exceeds global standards and helps rebuild rural prosperity, aiming to restore Kano’s historic reputation for its iconic “groundnut pyramids.”
Mr. Ramnani added that the facility will focus on peanut cleaning and the production of Nutzy-coated peanut snacks.
The event was attended by several dignitaries from the industrial, federal, and state sectors, marking a significant milestone in the state’s agro-industrial advancement.
News
Cameroon telecom regulator visits NCC for benchmarking exercise
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (ART) of the Republic of Cameroon, Philemon Zoo Zame, on Wednesday visited the headquarters of the [Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in Abuja for a benchmarking exercise aimed at strengthening regulatory collaboration and knowledge sharing between both countries.
KANO FOCUS reports that during the visit, the Cameroonian telecom regulator met with the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Aminu Maida.
A statement issued by Ayiabari A. Kigbara, Manager, Media Relations, Public Affairs Department of the NCC, said the engagement focused on exchanging ideas and best practices in telecommunications regulation, with emphasis on enhancing efficiency and development within the sector.
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.
