Renowned edupreneur Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo was celebrated at the inaugural Prof. Gwarzo Public Lecture, where speakers commended his dedication to mentoring and empowering young people.

The event, held at the Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Research and Training (Mambayya House) to mark Prof. Gwarzo’s 47th birthday, was organized by Adnan Mukhtar & Associates.

Prof. Gwarzo is the founder of the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria and Nigeria (MAAUN) as well as Franco-British International University Kaduna and Canadian University of Nigeria (CUN) Abuja
Keynote speaker Mr. Yushau A. Shuaib addressed the topic “Social Media in National Building,” praising Prof. Gwarzo for establishing universities that integrate digital tools into both their infrastructure and curriculum, thus enhancing students’ technological skills.

Mr. Shuaib, Editor-in-Chief of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, highlighted that the Northern region is home to many patriotic individuals who are effectively using modern tools, including social media, to contribute to national development.

“Prof. Adamu Gwarzo is not just an edupreneur; he has made significant investments in infrastructure to provide quality and affordable education, especially in Northern Nigeria,” Shuaib stated. “In addition to his educational initiatives, his philanthropic efforts in empowering youth and women are remarkable for someone of his age.”
He urged that the region would benefit tremendously if more young individuals, outside of the political arena, were dedicated to uplifting the local community from issues like illiteracy, ignorance, and apathy. “By doing so, we could effectively address challenges such as insecurity, endemic poverty, and overall societal stagnation.”

Shuaib emphasized that national development necessitates collaborative efforts from the government, private sector, civil society, and individual citizens aimed at fostering social cohesion and economic growth.
Referencing the lecture’s theme, Shuaib acknowledged that while billions are connected through social media platforms, there exists both positive potential and significant risks. He pointed out the pressing concerns surrounding misinformation, fake news, and hate speech, which threaten social cohesion and national unity.

“The spread of fake news can lead to confusion, misinformation, and societal misdirection,” he explained. “These tactics not only mislead the public but can also incite violence. Hate speech can provoke negative sentiments and lead to community conflicts.”

Despite these challenges, Shuaib cited examples of Northern media influencers positively utilizing social media. He referenced a recent Tech Digest report that recognized several Northerners who are fostering national unity, promoting civic engagement, supporting economic development, and enhancing transparency through social media platforms. Notable mentions included former presidential aides Nasir Adhama and Bashir Ahmed, broadcaster Bello Galadanci (Danbello), investigative journalist Jaafar Jaafar, and scholar Dr. Yakubu Sani Wudil living in the diaspora.

In discussing social issues and community support for vulnerable groups, Shuaib acknowledged efforts by individuals such as Aisha Falke and Bukar Ibn Maigana, along with creatives like professional photographer Nasir Rabiu Tubless and entrepreneurs such as Aisha Adamu Sadiq (textile industry), Laylah Othman (hospitality), and Hajju Amina Zannah (beauty products). These individuals have effectively leveraged social media to increase brand awareness, improve customer engagement, and drive sales.
To mitigate the risks associated with social media, Shuaib offered vital recommendations, stressing the importance of identifying target audiences and engaging in meaningful conversations. By providing accurate information and promoting transparent communication, society can harness the beneficial aspects of social media.
Dr. Sule Yau Sule, the event’s chairman and a senior lecturer at Bayero University Kano (BUK), commended Prof. Gwarzo for creating opportunities for students through scholarships and affordable tuition.

Dr. Sule who is also Chairman of Image Merchants Promotion Limited urged the necessity of community support and constructive dialogue in addressing the diverse social challenges facing the nation.
“Only through collaborative efforts can society effectively navigate the complexities of social media and harness its influence for positive nation-building,” he stated.

Adnan Mukhtar, the convener of the lecture, emphasized that the event served to celebrate Prof. Gwarzo’s contributions to education, empowerment, and philanthropy, announcing it as an annual event.

Represented by Prof. Muhammad Israr President of MAAUN, Prof. Adamu Gwarzo expressed his gratitude to the organizers and underscored the importance of responsible leadership. He encouraged leaders to prioritize the well-being of their teams and foster their growth, rather than hinder it.

“Regardless of your position, strive to support those working with you. Ensure positive change begins with you,” he advised, highlighting the significance of unity, education, and collective action in overcoming societal challenges and promoting positive change.
Prof. Gwarzo concluded by inviting more collaborative workshops, seminars, and conferences, aiming to harness the power of education for a more sustainable, equitable, and just world.

Among the attendees were notable figures such as Prof. Ahmed Maigari, Vice Chancellor of NorthWest University Sokoto; Engr. Nuradeen Aliyu, General Manager of Azman Air; and Dr. Musa Abdullahi Sufi, Chairman of the Adamu Gwarzo Foundation among others

The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Second Chance Programme has successfully enrolled over 100 women for adult classes during an enrollment drive campaign held today in Warawa Local Government Area of Kano State.

Jamila Ibrahim, the lead person for Component 2.2c of the Second Chance AGILE Education Programme, stated this during the event. She expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the level of interest shown by the community. “It was a good gathering. We have wanted to come to Warawa, and the way people are showing their interest is commendable. They came out, and this is a validation process. The turnout is okay, and we enrolled more than a hundred. The facilitators that are going to train the young girls are here,” she said.

Ibrahim highlighted the diverse group of enrollees, including young girls aged 15 and parents who are 25, as well as the physically challenged. She emphasized the commitment to achieving their targets and praised the local government chairmen for their support. “It’s very interesting. The women have come out who are 15 years of age and parents who are 25. They are currently being enrolled, among them are the physically challenged. We have our target, but the way LG chairmen are showing their interest is very commendable,” she added.

Cross section of women undergoing validation

Lamido Sunusi Ahmad, Chairman of Warawa Local Government, expressed his delight with the programme. “This programme has elated us, but we are not surprised. We know one of the priorities of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s government is education. The Second Chance AGILE for educating women is something to be very happy about, which combines with empowerment, especially in our local government, which is one of the backward areas in education. I am very delighted,” Ahmad stated.

Beneficiaries also shared their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity. Ummu Salama Alasan, a beneficiary, explained her motivation for returning to education. “I wanted to be educated because my parents died when I was young. What I always do is knit caps. I am just passionate, and I vow to continue pursuing education,” she said.

Shuaibu Isyaku, a parent who brought his daughter, expressed his happiness and prayed for the success of the government. “I am going to pray for the government to succeed,” he stated.

Sakina Basiru from Mandarin Taba, another enrollee, shared her experience, saying, “I enrolled in the programme with the support of my husband, and he accompanied me. I never participated in Western education before.”

Fatima Muhammad, who had previously stopped schooling at SS2, expressed her elation at returning to education. “I am elated, and I am here with the support of my father who accompanied me,” she said.

The AGILE Second Chance Programme continues to make significant strides in providing educational opportunities to women, empowering them to achieve their full potential and contributing to the overall development of the region.

Yushau Shuaibu, a renowned public relations guru and head of PRNigeria, delivered an insightful presentation on the role of social media in national development and nation-building. This presentation was part of the Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo Annual Public Lecture, organized by Adnan Mukhtar & Associates in collaboration with the Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo Foundation, held at Mambayya House in Kano.

In his paper titled “Social Media for National Development and Nation-Building,” Shuaibu emphasized the transformative power of social media as a tool for creating, interacting, and spreading messages. He highlighted the affordability and accessibility of social media, which allows for multimedia content, immediate communication, and widespread reach.

Shuaibu illustrated the rapid growth of social media platforms, noting that it took radio 38 years to reach 50 million users, while television took the same amount of time. In contrast, Facebook garnered over 100 million users in less than nine months from its creation. Today, Facebook boasts 2.8 billion users, and WhatsApp has 2 billion users, underscoring the immense power of social media.

He also discussed the various ways social media enhances transparency, civil engagement, economic development, and community support.

Jafar Jafar and Danbello were mentioned for their efforts in enhancing transparency and civic engagement, while Yakubu Sani Wudil was recognized for his contributions to economic development. Aisha Falke was acknowledged for addressing social issues and uniting community support.

However, Shuaibu also addressed the challenges posed by social media, such as the spread of fake news, misinformation, social division, and polarization. He pointed out that culprits, including politicians and terrorists, often use fake news to achieve their purposes.

To effectively use social media, Shuaibu recommended social media marketing strategies to push brands, increase brand awareness, and improve customer engagement. He emphasized the importance of defining target audiences, improving response times, providing newsworthy content, and incorporating multimedia access.

Adnan Mukhtar, representing the organizing firm, highlighted the significance of the annual public lecture and the role of social media in shaping lives. He praised Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo for his mentorship and contributions to society, both socially and academically.

Dr. Muhammad Israr, President of Maryam Abacha American University, urged attendees to help those in need, especially during these challenging times. He emphasized the role of social media in raising awareness and fostering development.

The event concluded with a call to action for individuals to leverage social media for positive change and nation-building.