Connect with us

Opinion

The BBC in Nigeria – Between Reporting and Propagating Terror – By Kadaria Ahmed

Published

on

Kadaria Ahmad

It has simply gotten out of hand.

Journalists and now a global media organisation of repute, the BBC, which should know better, are becoming a tool for terrorists, even if unwittingly, by amplifying the faces, voices and stories of killers and marauders who are still operating with impunity across Nigeria.

The public interest argument seems to have been misunderstood, some may even say misrepresented, to enable sensationalist reporting that is very unlikely to be allowed on screens in the United Kingdom. By not upholding the same standards as they would uphold in the UK, in their work in Nigeria, the BBC Africa Eye producers in their latest documentary titled ‘The Bandits Warlords of Zamfara’ have provided a global platform to terrorists and can be accused of becoming an accomplice to terror in the name of reporting it.

When Communications Professor at the University of Toronto Mahmoud Eid coined the term Terroredia, in his book Exchanging Terrorism Oxygen for Media Airwaves, Eid argues that there is now a ‘relationship between terrorists and media professionals in which acts of terrorism and media coverage are exchanged, influenced, and fuelled by one another.’ Since it was written 7 years ago, it would appear the case Eid was trying to make is now quite self-evident, especially in Nigeria where increasingly, propaganda videos and statements by terror groups as well as features on terror leaders are finding their way into mainstream media. We can now easily identify, for example, the faces of the major kingpins responsible for the widespread kidnappings and killings that are occurring on a daily basis in the Northern part of Nigeria, no thanks to having their pictures and videos splashed all over the pages of newspapers and on our television screens almost as if they are Nollywood A-listers.

None of this has ‘helped’ our inept government, led by President Muhamadu Buhari, to find and arrest these blood-thirsty criminals. The ‘pressure’ has also not stopped the administration from playing ostrich and finding an effective way of tackling insecurity. These are some of the public interest arguments put forward by those defending the featuring of predatory criminals on national and now international media platforms.

2023 Elections: IPAC Rejects Purported Deployment of Yusuf Kolo as Kano CP

The arguments also include an assertion that hearing from terrorists helps us better understand the conflicts and therefore come up with solutions. Under the guise of public interest, this is the argument that BBC Africa Eye seems to be presenting, to justify its decision to actively give copious screen time to self-confessed murderers and kidnappers, who are still actively involved in attacking communities, killing, kidnapping, pillaging and generally making life brutish and a living hell for the people of Nigeria’s North-western State of Zamfara and beyond.

The two promotional clips released for the documentary, the Bandits Warlords of Zamfara , feature a marauder who should remain nameless here, confirming that he was part of those who raided Jengebe girls’ secondary school in the state, abducting over 300 students with the attendant horror of these sorts of crimes normally entail, and releasing them, after the payment of ransom. Evidently, the BBC Africa Eye team also had no problem utilising footage that appears to have been shot by these self-confessed criminals because this makes it into the second trailer. No media of repute would take this decision because it is generally understood that these sorts of videos are recorded by terrorists for one thing and one thing only: propaganda.

Reports of the documentary in national newspapers also quote one of the featured criminals boasting, in the documentary, that he only kills, and doesn’t kidnap for ransom. This is the nature of the program that the ‘reputable’ BBC Africa Eye is positioning as having a public interest imperative.

To be clear, the current state of insecurity and all that it entails is the fault of the Federal Government, led by President Muhammadu Buhari, and he must be held responsible for the carnage and state of anarchy engulfing the nation. That does not however mean irresponsible reporting by the media, which after all should champion the common man, should not be challenged.

If terrorists were killing and kidnapping British citizens, especially young children, the BBC would not enable interviews by the perpetrators, particularly if they were still roaming footloose and fancy-free, without an iota of remorse for their crimes and also carrying out many more. The trauma to the psyche of the British public will be unbearable, and the BBC would not be willing to pay that price, or risk the legal consequences sure to ensue.

In the era of the Irish Republican Army, the IRA, for example, the group didn’t make it onto the airwaves of the BBC. Indeed, reporting of the activities of the political party seen as the political arm of the IRA, Sein Fein, was heavily censored. Every time they spoke, the BBC deleted their voices and replaced them with those of actors, in obedience to British Government directives which were put in place because the authorities believed publicity is like air for ‘terrorists’ groups, helping them to grow and thrive. And even though Sein Fein shared what many might argue is only an ideological position with the IRA, they were denied a presence on British airwaves in substantial ways.

Here in Nigeria, concerns about the impact the amplification of terrorists’ voices will have both on victims, their families and the public appear to be a secondary consideration to the BBC’s insistence on hearing from the bandits’ first-hand accounts and justification for their murderous activities.

There is no good argument that can justify the damage this is doing to the public that includes the school girls in Jangebe, who can now in perpetuity, watch the story of their abductions from the mouth of their abductors and relive the attendant trauma of that horrible crime.

Advert

For all of these school girls, victims and their families, the BBC Africa Eye has confirmed their attackers’ invincibility. By documenting and handing over on a platter of gold one of the most respected media brands in the world to justify their actions, the BBC has iconised violent men leading marauding militias that are killing, abducting, maiming and leaving terror in their wake across large sways of Nigeria and who are clearly neither sorry for their crime nor looking to stop anytime soon.

It is hard to see how this will not contribute to deepening fear, mistrust, hopelessness and damage to the national psyche while undoubtedly helping with recruitment, all ingredients that actively contribute to successful outcomes for terror groups.

The public’s right to know is a sacrosanct tenant of journalists who are not and should not be in the job of censoring news. Finding the balance between that and ensuring media platforms do not provide the oxygen of publicity for terrorists and criminals is not easy, but it is at these difficult junctures that good journalism needs to stand its ground.

Recognising the importance of getting it right globally, experts including those at the BBC have taken the trouble to develop guidelines for reporting difficult stories including stories of conflict and terrorism. The German Press Code for example says “in reporting actual and threatened acts of violence, the Press should carefully weigh the public’s interest in information against the interest of victims and other people involved. It should report on such incidents in an independent and authentic way, but not allow itself to be made the tool of criminals. Nor should it undertake independent attempts to mediate between criminals and the police. THERE MUST BE NO INTERVIEWS WITH PERPETRATORS DURING ACTS OF VIOLENCE.’’

The German guidelines are unequivocal about not giving airtime to criminals involved in ongoing criminal activities and for very good reason. The BBC’s editorial guidelines are more watery, perhaps explaining why the BBC Africa Eye team is able to be cavalier about such a critical issue. But even these guidelines say “any proposal to approach an organisation (or an individual member of an organisation) designated a ‘terrorist group’ by the Home Secretary under the Terrorism Acts, and any proposal to approach individuals or organisations responsible for acts of terror, to participate in our output must be referred in advance to Director Editorial Policy and Standard and also any proposal to broadcast content made by perpetrators of a hijacking, kidnapping, hostage-taking or siege must be referred to a senior editorial figure.’’

The questions to answer therefore include: did senior people in London at the BBC fully understood that they were authorizing the recording of terrorists who are still active and who between them have been responsible for the abduction, rape and killings of thousands of people including school children?

There are other questions.

When homeland terrorists committed the inconceivable crime of hacking British soldier Lee Rigby to death in May 2013, would the BBC have considered it in the public interest to interview these terrorists? To compare apples with apples, imagine that hero Rigby’s murderers were never held for their crimes, continued butchering people and collecting seven figure ransoms., would the BBC dare to send reporters to film the murderers gloating about collecting ransom, and then hold Twitter Spaces and bask in views, clicks and likes?
The answer is NO. The BBC would never dare.

Why then is the BBC okay to fund, then publicise the glorification of practicing murderers still butchering hundreds across Nigeria and the Chad Basin? How did this three-year disregard for African lives come about, and why is this acceptable?

By their own admission, the BBC Africa Eye producers claim their reporting occurred over three-years. This is clearly well before the crime against the school girls in Jangebe occurred. These bandits and their factions commit cross-border crimes. Therefore, as a matter of urgent national and regional security, other questions which the BBC must answer publicly, in the actual interest of the public include:

1. In all these years it was conducting these ‘investigations’ of terrorists, did the BBC harbour information on potential criminal or or actual crimes they happened an did the BBC withhold this information from the relevant African security authorities?

2. After the particular interviews in which the murderers admit their collection of ransoms, and committing acts of kidnap, did the BBC hand over any of this footage to the authorities, and do so in a timely manner?

3. What footage and information has the BBC handed over to law enforcement, since the publication of this documentary?

In covering a subset of criminals for three years, the BBC has brazenly admitted that it was shooting criminals before, during and after the commission of dastardly crimes that have destroyed generations present and unborn.

The BBC Africa Eye documentaries series have been designed specifically for release on social media platforms (Facebook and YouTube). Given the programme’s track record of dubious editorial decisions and accusations of unethical behaviour including by local reporters who worked with them, BBC managers in London should also explain if the decision to put this documentary out on social media was designed to ensure its producers are not held to the high global broadcast standards the BBC is known for and which are applicable to content broadcast within the UK?

When BBC Africa Eye did a story on drug addiction in Nigeria, there were attempts by a producer to sensationalize some of the reporting, to make it more gripping. On that occasion, he was working with a seasoned and brave journalist who pushed back.

When they did a story on Sex for Grades, the two reporters responsible for the story ended up trading blame on social media over sex for by-line allegations. Again, the producers didn’t come out smelling of roses.

An investigative report by them on a popular talk show host in Nigeria who is revered by millions saw the journalist who did that reporting flee his home together with his family as a result of threats to his life. The BBC failed in its duty of care to this local journalist and in the end fellow journalists had to rally around to provide him with safe spaces.

In all, the team at BBC Africa Eye appear to be striving to do reporting that would be unacceptable in the UK for being unethical and transparently against public interest.

The problem is they have capitalised on the justified anger of the people and the inconceivable failure of the government, to once again resurrect the ugliest vestiges of colonialism, which one had hoped were long buried.

The unfolding anarchy and violence in Nigeria are serious matters, and every attempt must be made to keep the public informed. A documentary that investigates and examines government failures while centring victims and their families would have done that.

Giving boastful, bloodthirsty criminals a global platform serves only two purposes. It provides free publicity for terror and enables the BBC to push viewership figures on social media.

It does nothing for public service. Even if it does not realise it, the BBC’s reputation for stellar public service journalism is being damaged.

Black lives, their humanity and national security, should matter more than clicks.

Hopefully someone in London will take note.

Kadaria Ahmed was a Senior Producer at the BBC in London and is now CEO at Radio Now 95.3FM Lagos

Opinion

Tears For Our Youth-Inuwa Waya

Published

on

 

 

BY
INUWA WAYA

“You are the leaders of tomorrow”. “You are the future generation”. “ You are our hope”. “We are planning for your tomorrow”. These are the phrases society relied upon to give hope and aspirations to our youth. Being an aggregate of people living together, this article chooses the word “Society” as opposed to government or community which are narrow in scope.

What is being discussed herein affect everyone and everything. Willy nilly, the youth are the future leaders. The issues to consider are the type of society they would lead, the level of their preparedness and what levers the society is using to prepare them for leadership. The term “youth” generally refers to the period between childhood and adulthood,its exact age range can vary depending on the context. The United Nations and the World Health Organisation put the age range between 18 to 24, while the African charter defined it between 18 to 35.

Clearly from the age brackets, the youth are the most productive class of any society. The way and manner the society treats these productive class is therefore of utmost interest to us. Ditto for the youth’s understanding of their role as first class materials in any society. From the way they conduct their affairs , the Nigerian youth it appears do not appropriate their importance.

They are weak, vulnerable and debased with very little sympathy and empathy. This class of otherwise proud people had embarked on a misadventure that would if care is not taken, destroy them for good. It is only a fraction of them that understood the purpose of their existence and are determined to make the best Use of it.
In the current dispensation, the youth’s involvement in political activities leaves much to be desired. They virtually contribute nothing in terms of political development. They are used as political hirelings and online mercenaries. They specialised in verbal attacks and acts of political thuggery. They lacked the initiative to establish a grassroots based political movement that would transform into a political party in order to wrestle power from the hands of the old brigade. The way their peers in other parts of the World liberated themselves. In their flock, our youth have shown appetite in acquiring wealth and depicting an ostentatious lifestyle. Acting as buffoons and nincompoops, they hardly surprise anybody whenever they act without civility and respect. Instead of focusing on productivity and securing their future, our youth had adopted a deviant behaviour. They resorted to taking drugs and other type of narcotics. 80% of the patients at the NDLEA rehabilitation centres and those in the psychiatric hospitals around the Country are youth receiving treatments for drugs and substance addiction. This particular problem is an epidemic of alarming proportion that is destroying the lives of our youth. The influence of drugs leads to all vices including the commission of crimes. From misdemeanours to capital offences, the number of our youth as inmates in various Correctional facilities in the Country are very troubling. From petty thieves and common criminals, many of them came out from the correctional facilities to become hardened criminals and fraudsters, thereby making their incarceration counterproductive.

Perhaps the major area where our tears must drop for our youth relates to their search for greener pasture in foreign Countries. Nigerian youth are scattered in the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the United States of America. A significant number of them, however, ended up in various prisons. The offences for which Nigerian youth are convicted in foreign lands are, drug-related offences, robbery, murder, wired fraud, identity theft, computer fraud, romance scam, fraudulent claims, email compromise, domestic violence and violence related to cultists activities. In most cases, our youth are deported upon completion of their prison terms. In recent months, substantial number of ex- convicts were deported from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, India, United kingdom and United States of America to mention but a few. Almost all the deportees were brought to their mother land in a depressive condition having suffered indignities at the deportation camps. Apart from the toll such takes on the life of those affected, there is an enormous amount of damage that is caused to the green passport at the International arena. It was on account of the way our youth behaved abroad, that Nigerians are subjected to embarrassing searches and rigorous scrutiny at the International airports. It is also because of their behaviour that foreign investors are wary of coming to explore the Nigerian market.

Advert

Direct foreign investment may become elusive if such criminal practices continue unabated. The exportation of crime to foreign countries tragically effected the position of our Country among the committee of Nations. It is because of that diminished status that many Countries refused to give entry visas to Nigerians. Innocent people who have genuine businesses abroad are prevented because of the cruel attitude of some Nigerians. There is no amount of plea or representation that would change the attitude any Country regarding entry visa to Nigerians, unless those responsible for these crimes repent. Based on the aforementioned, the task before the society is gigantic. First in preparing the youth for leadership and second in making them understand their pivotal role in the overall development of the society. The Federal, states and local governments should create the necessary synergy. They must review their policies especially as it affects the youth. Government should note that our youth have nowhere to call home but Nigeria. Its only in this Country they can enjoy rights and privileges. The global economic meltdown is forcing Countries to turn their back on foreigners. The United States had embarked on massive deportation of undocumented immigrants. They have introduced strict visa requirements to discourage economic migrants and students who may want to do a part-time job while studying in the US. The United Kingdom had equally carried out mass deportation and would soon introduce tougher visa rules. Generally in Europe, the nationalist parties are gaining popularity on daily basis because of their uncompromising stand on immigration. More than ever before, Nigerian governments at all levels must create wealth and distribute it evenly to assist our youth . Policies that would enhance job opportunities must be put in place as a matter of urgency. The current arrangements to tackle youth unemployment should be reviewed and fresh ideas injected. Commercial Banks should be brought in to handle all aspects of youth empowerment through loans for small scale and medium enterprises. The involvement of Banks would bring professionalism and ensure that appropriate mechanisms are put in place for judicious disbursement and repayment of these loans. Through the coordination of the three tiers of government, vast agricultural land should be carved out and allocated to our youth who are interested in farming. The Bank of agriculture should shortlist prospective applicants for loans, while its administration and disbursement should be handled by commercial Banks. Government should fully fund our universities and polytechnics and fast-track the development of science and technology. In order to fully engage our youth in education and scholarship, the government should declare a state of emergency on education by introducing free education in all government tertiary institutions for the next 10 years. That will enable qualified students from poor families to benefit from that intervention. The fight against drug abuse and trafficking must be vigorously pursued to save our youth from destruction. we must appreciate the efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their doggedness in combating drug-related offences. In addition to fighting internal crimes, the law enforcement agencies must continue to fight crimes that bring shame and embarrassment to our nation. Here, we must salute the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its fight against the so-called “yahoo boys”. All other crimes such as banditry, kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, fraud and the rest of them must be completely eradicated by our security agencies. The Nigerian Correctional Services must be reformed to make it truly correctional and reformatory, such that inmates who are convicted on minor offences should not be release as hardened criminals. The administration of criminal justice must address the menace of prison congestion especially as it relates to the awaiting trial mates many of who spent years awaiting trail. Justice delayed is justice denied.

In conclusion and in as much as we implore the society to rescue our youth from the road to perdition, the bulk of the work lies with them. They must wake up from slumber and eject themselves from mental slavery. They must understand that their future is at stake. It is their responsibility to shape their destiny. It is time to have an attitudinal change. It is time for soul-searching. what they do today would make or mar
their future and by extension, the future of the society. All we require our youth to do is to be patriotic, to be obedient to the constituted authority and to participate in the political process by championing accountability and governance. Period.

Continue Reading

Opinion

Guardians of Tradition: Why Gidan Rumfa Casts Out the Disloyal in Defence of the Throne

Published

on

Kofar Kudu gate of Kano Emirs Palace

 

By Abdulkadir Aliyu Shehu

The ancient city of Kano, a cradle of Islamic civilisation and one of the oldest surviving traditional emirates in sub-Saharan Africa, has once again demonstrated the enduring strength of its cultural institutions. With the reinstatement of His Highness Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano, a necessary purge of disloyal palace servants has taken place rooted not in politics, but in sacred custom and historical continuity.

Galadiman Sallama, Sarkin Yakin Danrimi, and Sarkin Tafarki, as well as several others whose refusal to pay “Mubayi’a “the traditional pledge of allegiance placed them in direct contradiction to centuries of palace protocol, were among those recently required to vacate the Emir’s palace, Gidan Rumfa.

Gidan Rumfa, established circa 1480 by Sultan Muhammadu Rumfa, is not merely a residence; it embodies Kano’s royal heritage. Serving as the heart of the Emirate’s political, spiritual, and judicial authority, it has historically been home only to those who recognise and serve the sitting Emir with complete loyalty.

The structure of Kano’s traditional institution is deeply hierarchical and meticulously organised. Titleholders known as masu sarauta are assigned roles that reflect the Emir’s trust and the Emirate’s values. These roles are more than titles; they are historical obligations passed down across dynasties. Loyalty is not symbolic it is operational and functional.

The Mubayi’a a rite dating back to the 14th century is more than a handshake or public appearance. It is a solemn vow rooted in Islamic and traditional authority, echoing bay’ah practices seen throughout Islamic dynasties. Without it, no palace official is recognised, and their residence in Gidan Rumfa is considered both illegitimate and sacrilegious.

In this context, the refusal of the aforementioned palace titleholders to pay Mubayi’a to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II is a violation not just of tradition, but of spiritual and constitutional legitimacy. By instead offering allegiance to the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero whose removal was duly executed through legislative and executive authority these individuals chose to defy the very institution they once served.

Historical precedent supports this outcome. When Emir Muhammadu Tukur was dethroned in 1893, several chiefs who remained loyal to him were removed from office and banished from the palace under the new Emir Aliyu Babba. Similarly, during the colonial transition and reorganisation of native authorities in the early 20th century, allegiance to the colonial-approved Emir became a requirement for continued service in Gidan Rumfa.

The recent exit of these servants, therefore, is not new it is a continuation of a long-standing principle: the palace belongs to the Emir, and those who reside within must recognise no other master.

Advert

What intensifies the matter is that some of these individuals were allegedly involved in the disturbance that occurred at the palace gates during the illegal visit of the deposed Emir, in what many described as an attempted forceful entry. This act was not only provocative but also placed the lives of palace guards and loyalists at risk, further justifying their dismissal.

The Kano State Government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, reaffirmed its constitutional right to restructure the traditional institution. This was executed through a lawful repeal of the Kano Emirates Law (2019), which had fragmented the historical Emirate. With the reconstitution of a unified Kano Emirate and the return of Sanusi II, allegiance became the only path to continuity for palace officials.

The implications of refusing allegiance go beyond symbolic defiance. It erodes the moral fabric of the Emirate, challenges lawful authority, and introduces political instability into a sacred institution. It is for this reason that elders, historians, and Islamic scholars across Northern Nigeria have voiced support for the cleansing of the palace.

The late Alhaji Ado Bayero, father of the deposed Emir, upheld this very principle during his reign. Several disloyal aides who failed to recognise his authority upon his appointment in 1963 were stripped of their titles. Loyalty was not only expected it was enforced.

Therefore, the removal of Galadiman Sallama, Sarkin Yakin Danrimi, and Sarkin Tafarki is neither revenge nor political intimidation. It is a return to principle, a restoration of discipline, and a reaffirmation of the Emirate’s spiritual purity.

Many in Kano have applauded this action, describing it as necessary to protect Gidan Rumfa from betrayal have rallied behind Emir Sanusi II, asserting that those who undermine him are, by extension, undermining the very dignity of Kano.

The Emir, known for his intellect, humility, and justice, has resumed his duties with grace and poise. Traditional court sessions have returned to the palace, and emissaries from across the country have begun to restore ties severed during the turbulence of the past four years.

Meanwhile, the Emirate Council has opened the door for appointments to fill the vacated positions. It is expected that loyal, educated, and culturally grounded individuals will be considered those who understand the weight of serving the throne.

Calls have also grown louder for the Federal Government and political elites to respect Kano’s sovereignty and allow its traditional institutions to function without manipulation or interference. “Let Kano breathe,” has become a rallying cry, echoing from the palace to the streets.

This moment in Kano’s history is more than an administrative adjustment it is a cultural reset. It reasserts the supremacy of tradition over personal ambition, and of legitimacy over factional loyalty.

The legacy of Kano’s traditional leadership rests on an unbroken chain of loyalty, stretching from the era of Bagauda in the 10th century to the modern era. That chain must not be weakened by disloyalty, opportunism, or political convenience.

The events of the past weeks show clearly: Gidan Rumfa is not a place for divided loyalty. It is the fortress of tradition, guarded by those who see service to the Emir as service to the people, history, and God.

In preserving the sanctity of the palace, Emir Sanusi II has demonstrated statesmanship, patience, and a deep understanding of his forebears’ vision. The Emirate he leads is not built on transient power, but on values that have stood the test of time.

In conclusion, the removal of the disloyal palace servants is a testament to the strength of tradition in Kano a tradition that refuses to bend to politics, fear, or faction. As the Emirate restores its rhythm under a revered and legitimate monarch, the people of Kano look forward with hope, unity, and renewed trust in their heritage.

May Gidan Rumfa continue to flourish as the beacon of justice, wisdom, and unwavering loyalty.

Abdulkadir Aliyu Shehu is a journalist and public commentator, and writes from Gombe and can be reached via danfodio247@gmail.com.

Continue Reading

Opinion

Waiya’s Transformative Impact On Kano’s Public Image

Published

on

 

By Umar Danliti

Since taking over as the Commissioner for Information in Kano State, Ibrahim Waiya has been on a mission to redefine the way the government interacts with the public. With a background as an activist, Waiya brings a unique perspective to the role.

Replacing Baba Halilu Dantiye, Waiya has wasted no time in implementing his vision for a more open and responsive government. His approach has been met with enthusiasm from both government officials and the general public.

One of Waiya’s key strategies has been to foster good working relationships with the media and other stakeholders. He believes that building trust and credibility is essential for effective governance.

Under Waiya’s leadership, the Ministry of Information has become more proactive in engaging with the public. The commissioner has made himself available to the press, providing timely and accurate information on government policies and initiatives.

Waiya’s experience as an activist has given him a deep understanding of the importance of public relations. He has leveraged this expertise to generate positive publicity for the state, highlighting its achievements and potential.

The results of Waiya’s efforts are already becoming apparent. The government’s image has begun to shift, with many Nigerians now viewing Kano State as a hub of progress and innovation.

Waiya’s approach is not limited to just spin doctoring; he is committed to ensuring that government policies and programs are people-centered. He believes that effective communication is key to building trust and support for government initiatives.

Advert

By engaging directly with the public, Waiya has been able to gauge their concerns and feedback. This information is being used to inform policy decisions, making government more responsive to the needs of the people.

One of the key challenges facing Waiya is managing the government’s online presence. He has taken steps to revamp the ministry’s social media platforms, ensuring that they are used effectively to engage with the public.

Waiya’s team has also been working to improve the government’s crisis communication strategy. By being proactive and transparent, they aim to minimize the impact of any potential crises on the government’s reputation.

The commissioner has also been working closely with other government agencies to ensure that their messages are consistent and effective. This coordination has helped to project a unified image of the government.

Under Waiya’s leadership, the Ministry of Information has become a hub of creativity and innovation. The commissioner encourages his team to think outside the box and come up with new ideas for engaging with the public.

Waiya’s vision for the ministry extends beyond just government publicity. He believes that the ministry should also play a role in promoting Kano State’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.

To achieve this, Waiya has been working with local artists, musicians, and other creatives to showcase the state’s unique identity. This initiative has helped to promote a sense of pride and ownership among the people.

The dividends of Waiya’s approach are already being felt. The government’s approval ratings have improved, and there is a growing sense of optimism about the state’s future.

Waiya’s commitment to transparency and accountability has also helped to build trust between the government and the people. Citizens are now more confident in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.

As a seasoned activist, Waiya is well aware of the power of social media. He has used this knowledge to engage with the public and promote government initiatives.

The commissioner’s team has also been working to improve the government’s offline engagement with the public. Town hall meetings and other public forums have been organized to provide citizens with a platform to air their views.

Waiya’s leadership style is characterized by his willingness to listen and adapt. He is open to feedback and willing to make changes when necessary.

As Kano State looks to the future, it is clear that Ibrahim Waiya’s appointment as Commissioner for Information has been a game-changer. His unique approach and commitment to public relations have set a new standard for government communication in the state. With Waiya at the helm, the prospects for greater Kano look brighter than ever.

Umar Liti, is a concern Kano citizen, and can be reached at umarliti@yahoo.com

Continue Reading

Trending