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“Akpabio and Barau Jibrin: The Mistakes APC Cannot Afford to Make”

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Senator Abdulaziz Yari

By Sueiman Abdullahi Suleiman

The Nigerian Senate is the upper legislative chamber of the National Assembly, and its President and Deputy President are important positions that play a crucial role in the legislative process.
In the 10th National Assembly, there are two main candidates vying for the positions of Senate President and Deputy Senate President: Ahmad Godswill Akpabio, and Abdulaziz who is a first timer at the Senate.
However, in this article, we will focus on why Abdulaziz Yari and Orji Uzo Kalu are the best choices for the positions of Senate President and Deputy Senate President, respectively.
Many important stakeholders of the APC and aspirants to the National Assembly positions appear to have been brushed aside because of the insistence of the party to support particular names instead of allowing the zones to make further consultations as to who should be presented for final voting by the National Assembly members.
In the case of the Senate Presidency position, there is a serious feeling of marginalization of the Northwest at the national assembly despite given the highest vote to the president elect; the southeast also who have been marginalized from leadership, that leads to the agitation of Biafra would have been a best option to reconsider its stands and allow free process to make the leadership of both house.
More importantly, there is a strong groundswell of opinion that the Nigerian people are eager to have an independent parliament-one that will not be at the beck and call of the Presidency.
Which was the reasons why Yari and Kalu are the best choices for the positions of Senate President and Deputy Senate President is because of their wide support and popularity among their colleagues in the National Assembly, and their respective regions. Both senators are well-respected within the APC and have garnered support from members across party lines.
Even when viewed more critically, the South East has shown greater tendency in embracing the APC than the South-South zone. Two of the Governors in the Zone are in APC, while Orji Uzo Kalu who is an Igbo from Abia state, is a strong and prominent figure from the region which cannot be said of the South-South.
This is a crucial factor in determining who becomes Senate President and Deputy Senate President, as the positions require the support of a majority of the senators.
Many Nigerians believe that qualitative separation of powers will put the Executive Arm on its toes and compels it to serve the interests of the people positively. What is needed is a robust legislative engagement that works for all groups and tendencies within the polity.
Related to the above vision of qualitative governance based on legislative autonomy is the need for a balanced power-sharing framework, rooted in social justice and equity-which constitute the intricate forms of democratic balancing needed for national stability.
Another reason why Yari and Kalu are the best choices is because of their strong and prominent personalities, and believe in the Legislature’s independence. Both senators have demonstrated their ability to lead and have shown a commitment to the welfare of their constituents. They have also been involved in legislative efforts aimed at promoting good governance and improving the lives of Nigerians.
In contrast, Godswill Akpabio and Barau Jibrin, the other candidates for the positions, lack the wide support and prominent personalities that Yari and Kalu possess.
Sad to note is how Godswill Akpabio and Barau Jibrin, the APC anointed candidates for Senate President and Deputy Senate President, respectively, embarked on using religion and the Presidency to sway support in their favour.
Despite this, Abdulaziz Yari and Orji Uzor Kalu, have been pushing back against their opponents’ strategy. Yari, who has been emphasizing his experience and track record in governance, arguing that he is the best candidate to lead the Senate. While Kalu has been highlighting his contributions to the party and his commitment to the Nigerian people, positioning himself as a unifying force within the party.
Brushing aside the Igbo Question and continuing with new forms of marginalization against Ndigbo can only agrivaitae the problem. But with Abdulaziz Yari and Orji Uzo Kalu as his deputy, the aggitation will be crushed and bring an end to the menace the southestaern states are suffrening in the hands o the separatiest.
So also Abdulazizi Yari was much disturbed by the mere happenings, which serves as an obstalce for his vision andn agitation for one Nigeria, that led to his choice of Orji Uzo Kalu as his Deputy, a perfect combination fro the 10th assembly.
A more creative political class would have shown serious concern and taken steps to douse the tension generated by the mythical charter of ethnic prejudice against the Igbo instead of adding fuel to an already burning inferno.
The struggle for the Senate and Deputy Senate President positions has far-reaching implications for the Nigerian polity.
If Akpabio and Barau are successful in their bid for the positions, it could strengthen the influence of the APC and the Presidency in the Senate, potentially making it easier for the ruling party to push through its legislative agenda.
However, if Yari and Kalu emerge victorious, it could signal a shift in power dynamics within the party and the Senate, potentially leading to a more independent and assertive Senate.
The outcome of this race will have significant implications for the Nigerian polity, as it will determine the direction of the Senate and the balance of power within the ruling party. Ultimately, it will be up to the Senators to decide who is best suited to lead them and the Nigerian people forward.

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Opinion

Let President Tinubu Rename University of Lagos After Gowon, Not Abuja

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Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

 

 

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun Wada

I was not happy when Northwest University Kano was renamed to Yusuf Maitama Sule University, as student leaders of that University then, we followed the interest of the students who were also not happy with the renaming at that time for one reason; the renaming was politically motivated, to hurt the founder of the institution Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso. I was busy mobilising students to protest, the next day I was invited to the DSS for questions where I spent hours and all the people we were mobilising the protest together ran and dissociated themselves from it. I have no option but to plead with the DSS to release me, assuring them that not a single student would protest the government’s action.

The renaming has affected many students who are seeking admission abroad; it’s Northwest University on my transcript and Yusuf Maitama Sule University on my certificate. This is kinda confusing and not good at all.

Politicians should immortalise individuals in their new projects not existing ones. The renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University is not good for the university’s alumni.

The President should have found a new project or built a new University by naming it after the former Head of State.

I don’t support the idea of playing politics by renaming our universities and this happens mostly in Nigeria.

Imagine waking up renaming the University of Maiduguri to Mohammed Goni University, Yobe State University to Ibrahim Geidam University, the University of Ibadan to Abiola Ajimobi University, the University of Lagos to Lateef Jakande University.

It will be bad for the alumni of the aforementioned universities to come across this.

Why is this only happening in Africa? Look at Makerere University in Uganda, it was established in 1920 but despite Yoweri Mosevenni’s long reign; he didn’t for once attempt to change it to even his name for selfish reasons.

He didn’t think of renaming the Entebbe International Airport after him but in Nigeria, we have this culture of renaming everything after individuals.

If you want to be immortalised, leave a lasting legacy as Gowon did in establishing NYSC. That enough is Okay and better than naming an institution after him.

President Tinubu should have renamed the University of Lagos after Gowon, not Abuja. I’m sure his people will reject this not for any reason but because of the large number of people that will be affected by it.

The University of Abuja Alumni were all crying over this painful decision.

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Opinion

Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya: Champion of Civil Society and Good Governance in Northern Nigeria

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Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, is an influential Civil Society figure in Kano State and Northern Nigeria. He is currently serving as the Executive Director, Citizens for Development and Education (CDE), he has dedicated many years of his civil society activism as advocate for the promotion of democracy, good governance, anti-corruption, peace building and women empowerment

Amb. Waiya, holds number of academic qualifications, including a Higher National Diploma in Public Administration from Kano State Polytechnic, a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, Master’s in Public International Law at Maryam Abacha, American University, Maradi, and he is currently pursuing a doctor of philosophy at Skyline University, Kano in International Relations

In the course of his career, he held several positions and managed a number of projects. He served as the Director, Alhilal Foundation, from 2003 to 2007, an organization which focused on women empowerment, through basic literacy and skills acquisition. He later coordinated the North West Zonal Office of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Foundation. Amb. Ibrahim Waiya, led and coordinated a number of Local Government Councils Elections Observation missions across 19 Northern states.

In 2011, Waiya managed the Campaign against Drug Abuse under the auspices of Northern Youth Assembly, a youth driven platform with leadership structures in the Nineteen Northern States. He served as Secretary, for both, Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign and Kano State Stakeholders Committee on Anti-Child Abuse, a project which was coordinated by the office of the Special Adviser, Child Welfare and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. His involvement in election observation coordination missions and various public engagements, highlights his commitment to civic engagement towards community development, democracy and good governance

Waiya’s extensive experience includes free consultancy support services to numerous Government Ministries and Agencies such as: Kano State Ministry for Women Affairs and Social Development, Kano State Ministry for Community and Rural Development, office of the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Child Welfare, Ministry for Special duties, office of the special adviser, joint security services. He has facilitated numerous training workshops and seminars, impacting his knowledge, skills, experience on the community, particularly for community based organizations

In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed to several key positions, such as the President, of the Kano Civil Society Forum, Chairman of the Conference of Northern States Civil Society Networks, Convener, Nigeria for Peace Project, Managing partner, United Nigeria Project, Head of Secretariat, Kano Peace Committee, Secretary General, National Action for Women Agenda,(NAWA), chairman, Board of Trustees, Northern Youth Assembly, (Majalisar Matasan Arewa) Fellow, Institute of Security and Strategic Studies, Fellow, Institute of International Peace and Secure Society, Fellow, Institute of Business Diplomacy and Financial Management, member, Commission of Inquiry on Missing persons, member, Implementation Committee, on the Recommendations of the Report of the Commission of inquiry on missing persons, member, Commission of Inquiry to investigate, various political violence and cases of missing persons, that occurred in the State from 2015 – 2023, member, Commission of inquiry to investigate protest, arson and destruction of public and private properties that occurred from 1st – 10th August, 2024 Amb. Waiya, served as Consultant on various government projects, such as: Kano State Security Trust Fund, Safe Corridor, Campaign against Drug Abuse, across the 44 Local Government Council Areas. Amb. Waiya”s active participation in peace building, policy advocacy and legislative reform has continued to impact positive change in Kano State, the North and Nigeria at large.

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Opinion

“I Transition to PR and Digital Marketing to Transform Brands Globally” – Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah

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As 2024 comes to a close, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah reflects on his journey from journalism to public relations (PR) and digital marketing. With over a decade of experience in media and communications, Ibrahim’s transition was fueled by a desire to empower businesses—starting with Northern Nigeria but extending globally—to build impactful narratives and achieve sustainable growth.

“Every brand, regardless of location, deserves access to the tools and expertise needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced world,” Ibrahim says. “My goal has always been to bridge the gap in strategic communication, ensuring that no business is left behind.”

From Journalism to Strategic Communication

Ibrahim’s illustrious journalism career spans over a decade, during which he served as a Senior Reporter at TVC News, covering critical developments, including the Kano State Government House for three successive administrations. His work involved breaking major news stories, producing multimedia content, and engaging audiences through digital platforms.

“I’ve always been passionate about communication, but I realized I wanted to do more than report stories—I wanted to help brands craft their own,” Ibrahim shares. “That’s what led me to pivot into PR and digital marketing.”

To equip himself for this new journey, Ibrahim pursued advanced studies, earning a Master’s in Communication Studies and a Master’s in Public Relations from Bayero University, Kano. He further honed his expertise with a Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing from the London School of Business Administration and a Master Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Digital Marketing Skills Institute. These credentials underscore his commitment to mastering the art of strategic communication.

Empowering Brands Through Ayrah Media Concept

As the CEO of Ayrah Media Concept (AMC), Ibrahim leads a PR and creative agency that provides businesses with tailored solutions, including PR consulting, social media management, corporate campaigns, and digital marketing.

“My vision is to empower brands to connect with their audiences, tell compelling stories, and achieve global relevance,” Ibrahim explains. “Through AMC, we’re showing businesses—whether in Northern Nigeria or beyond—that they can reach new heights with the right strategies.”

In 2024, AMC worked on several impactful campaigns, including Ibrahim’s role as a Lead Consultant for the WOFAN-ICON2 project in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, where he developed and executed PR and communication strategies to amplify the project’s impact.

Changing Perceptions and Building Bridges

Transitioning into PR and digital marketing came with challenges, including shifting perceptions about its value.

“Many businesses see PR and digital marketing as optional rather than essential,” Ibrahim says. “But the results are transformative. Strategic communication is not just about visibility; it’s about building trust, credibility, and lasting connections with your audience.”

This philosophy drives Ibrahim’s approach, ensuring that businesses of all sizes—whether local startups or established corporations—can access high-quality PR and marketing services.

Looking Ahead

Ibrahim’s vision for the future extends far beyond regional boundaries. While his roots and passion lie in Northern Nigeria, his focus is on creating strategies that resonate globally.

“Brands in Kano, Lagos, Abuja, or even New York share a common goal: to connect with people and make an impact,” he says. “My mission is to ensure that every business, regardless of size or location, has the tools and strategies to achieve that.”

In 2025, Ibrahim plans to document his professional journey in a book that will explore his experiences as a journalist and PR expert, offering insights into the evolving landscape of communication and its role in business success.

A Message of Gratitude

As he reflects on the year, Ibrahim expresses his gratitude to those who have supported his journey. “I’m incredibly thankful to my mentors, collaborators, and clients who have believed in my vision. Together, we’ve shown that impactful communication has the power to transform lives and businesses.”

With a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ibrahim Ayyuba Isah is poised to lead the way in redefining PR and digital marketing, not just in Nigeria but across the globe.

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