Headlines
COVID-19 virtual hackathon: NCC awards N9M research grants to three winners
Mukhtar Yahya Usman
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has awarded N3million research grants to three startups to adapt digital solutions for containing the impact of COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
Kano Focus reports that the three grant winners include KlasConnect, SmartClinic and Elizade University team.
Minister of communication and digital economy, Isa Ali Pantami presented the checks during a virtual ceremony on Tuesday.
Mr Pantami said the NCC aims to boost Nigeria’s digital economy with the award of the research grants.
Computer professionals support NCC in deploying 5G in Nigeria
COVID-19 virtual hackathon: NCC to award N9m research grants to 3 winners
COVID-19: NCC, Danbatta receive awards for keeping Nigerians connected
“Today’s event aligns with two of the eight pillars of our digital economy policy and strategy plan.
“It involves the development of a vibrant digital ecosystem that supports innovation-driven enterprises and the provision of a policy framework that prioritizes digitally skilled Nigerians for government funded projects.” He said.
The minister added that the current pandemic necessitated a discussion of solutions, as the world searches for affordable and time saving solutions.
In his remarks, NCC executive vice chairman, Umar Garba Danbatta said the winners participated in a 3-month virtual hackathon.
He said the Hackathon is expected to throw up innovative and adaptable solutions that will address the present and future impacts of Covid-19 Pandemic in Nigeria.
“We had, in inviting submissions for this innovative digital solution to Covid-19 pandemic, sought novel ideas or solutions to address the needs of health workers and other frontline health professionals.
“Each of the Startups, or tech-hubs with promising innovative digital solutions against the pandemic will receive a grant of N3 million.” He said.
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.
