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Prof. Gwarzo Eulogized at Inaugural Social Media Lecture in Kano

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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.

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“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

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Supreme Court Nullifies Tinubu’s Pardon, Restores Maryam Sanda’s Death Sentence

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

 

Nigeria’s Supreme Court has set aside the presidential pardon granted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Maryam Sanda, the Abuja woman convicted of killing her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, during a domestic dispute.

In 2020, the Federal Capital Territory High Court sentenced Sanda to death by hanging, a verdict later upheld by the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

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In contrast, President Tinubu had subsequently commuted the sentence to 12 years’ imprisonment on compassionate grounds.

However, in a narrow 4–1 judgment delivered on December 12, 2025, the Supreme Court restored the initial death sentence. The apex court dismissed Sanda’s final appeal, ruling that it lacked merit and failed to undermine the findings of the lower courts.

Reading the lead judgment, Justice Moore Adumein held that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, establishing that Sanda unlawfully caused the death of her husband.

He described the presidential pardon as an inappropriate exercise of executive power, particularly because the clemency was issued while the appeal process in a homicide case was still ongoing.

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Alleged Fraud: Late President Buhari’s Minister of Labour, Ngige, Landed in Kuje Prison

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

On Friday, an Abuja High Court remanded a former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, in Kuje Correctional Centre, pending the determination of his bail application.

The Nigerian Tracker News had earlier reported his arrest by the EFCC on Wednesday.

The Crime’s Commission arraigned Ngige on Friday over alleged N2.2 billion fraud.

The one-time governor of Anambra State and former Minister of Labour and Employment, Ngige, is facing eight count charges of fraud and accepting bribes.

The defendant served as the governor of Anambra under platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from May 29, 2003, to March 17, 2006.

He served as minister under former and late President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration from 2015 to 2023.

He is being prosecuted for fraud, which he allegedly committed during his tenure as Minister of Labour and Employment.

The EFCC accused him of awarding seven contracts worth over N366 million “for consultancy, training and supply by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF)” to a company, Cezimo Nigeria Limited, belonging to his associate, Ezebinwa Charles.

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EFCC alleged that Ngige awarded eight contracts worth over N583 million to another company belonging to Mr Charles.

The EFCC also alleged that the defendant used his position to give preferential treatment, awarding eight contracts worth over N362 million to a company, Jeff & Xris Limited, belonging to Nwosu Chukwunwike.

Other companies he awarded contracts include Olde English Consolidated Limited and Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, belonging to Uzoma Igbonwa to the sum of N668 million and N161million respectively.

According to the EFCC, these offences violate section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

Also, the anti-graft agency accused Ngige of collecting gratifications from contractors of the NSITF through “his organization, called Senator (Dr Chris Nwabueze Ngige Campaign Organization from Cezimo Nigeria Limited (Zenith Bank Account Number 1011901119).”

The EFCC further alleged that Ngige collected N38.6 million from Cezimo Nigeria Limited, N55 million from Zitacom Nigeria Limited and N26 million from Jeff & Xris Limited.

This according to EFCC contravened section 17(a) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 and is punishable under section 17(c) of the same Act.

He however pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

The EFCC’s counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, SAN applied for a trial date and urged the court to remand Ngige at Kuje Custodial Centre.

However, counsel to Ngige, Patrick Ikwueto, SAN, noted that they were only informed of the arraignment yesterday and could not file for his bail application.

Ikwueto urged the court to give Ngige a conditional bail on health grounds.

He also attempted to move for an oral bail application for the defendant on self-recognition.
Tahir noted that the court could not be presented with both a written and oral application.

He also noted that Ngige is yet to submit his international passport, which was part of his previous bail conditions.

Ikweto, however, noted that Ngige’s international passport was stolen, and the EFCC has been informed through a letter.

Tahir denied knowledge about the report.

Following their submissions, Justice, Maryam Hassan, ordered his remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

Justice Hassan adjourned the case until Monday for hearing and determination of his bail application.

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One Kano Agenda Announces Two-Day Economic and Political Conference

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The One Kano Agenda movement has announced plans to host a two-day economic and political conference in Kano State, reaffirming its commitment to unity, progress, and sustainable development.

In a statement signed by the Director of Media and Publicity, Abubakar Dangambo, the group emphasized that the initiative is designed to bring together stakeholders from across the state to deliberate on strategies that will reposition Kano as a hub of economic growth and political stability.

Commitment to Unity and Progress
According to the statement, One Kano Agenda is rooted in inclusiveness, civic consciousness, and forward-thinking leadership. The movement stressed that its guiding principle remains simple: “Kano’s future must be built by all of us, and benefitted by all of us.”

Day One: Economic Summit
The first day of the conference will feature the Kano Economic Summit, focusing on:
– Repositioning Kano as a regional economic powerhouse
– Strengthening local industries, SMEs, and the commerce sector
– Attracting investment and rebuilding economic confidence
– Learning from successful models such as Lagos State’s long-term development vision
– Mapping out an actionable roadmap for Kano’s economic revival

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Organizers noted that the summit is expected to stimulate critical conversations and partnerships that will support job creation, entrepreneurship, infrastructure development, and broader wealth-creation opportunities for citizens.

Day Two: Political Dialogue
The second day will be dedicated to the Kano Political Dialogue, which will address:
– Strengthening political participation and leadership quality
– Promoting youth involvement and political re-orientation
– Reducing political manipulation and violence
– Encouraging issue-based politics grounded in development
– Building a united, peaceful, and politically stable Kano State

The dialogue aims to reshape mindsets, deepen democratic culture, and ensure that politics in Kano becomes a vehicle for progress rather than division.

Why the Conference Matters
The One Kano Agenda described the gathering as a “needed intervention at a decisive moment in the state’s history.” Kano, it said, stands at a crossroads, and the future desired by its people can only be achieved through deliberate planning, honest dialogue, and collaborative action.

“The conference will provide a platform for meaningful engagement, innovative ideas, and a united voice in charting Kano’s next chapter,” the statement read.

Call to Action
The movement called on professionals, youth, community leaders, religious institutions, business owners, and the general public to participate actively in the initiative.

“Together, we can redefine our future. Together, we are One Kano,” the statement concluded.

 

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