The 5th International Conference on Drylands, organized by the Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA), Bayero University, Kano, has concluded with a powerful call for policy reforms, investment, and inclusive strategies to restore rangelands and improve the livelihoods of pastoralists.

According to the conference communiqué issued by Nura Sabon Sara, Director of Digital Media at Bayero University Kano, participants emphasized that governments and stakeholders must adopt sustainable land management policies to tackle degradation and climate vulnerability in dryland regions.

Held from May 6 to 8, 2025, the conference brought together over 300 participants, including scientists, policymakers, researchers, and development partners from 11 African countries, 13 Nigerian states, and 17 academic institutions, fostering rich knowledge exchange and cross-sector collaboration.

Call for Policy Reform and Sustainable Rangeland Management

A key highlight of the conference was the urgent call for evidence-based legal frameworks that promote sustainable rangeland governance. The communiqué, issued by Nura Sabon Sara, stressed the need for policies that uphold the rights of pastoralists, guarantee secure land tenure, and mitigate land-use conflicts.

Empowering Women and Youth in Pastoral Communities**

Recognizing the critical role of women and youth, the conference urged increased investment in capacity-building programs, ensuring their active participation in decision-making processes. The communiqué, released by Bayero University Kano’s Digital Media Office, underscored the importance of economic empowerment initiatives tailored to young and female pastoralists.

Scaling Up Investment and Innovation in Dryland Agriculture

Delegates emphasized the necessity of public-private investment in climate adaptation and sustainable land management technologies. According to the communiqué, integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific advancements is crucial for developing tailored solutions that strengthen climate resilience.

International Cooperation and Private Sector Engagement

The conference communiqué advocated for enhanced global partnerships to address transboundary rangeland challenges. It urged development organizations to align funding with dryland research efforts, referencing major initiatives like the US-led Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) and the Africa Soil Initiative.

The private sector was encouraged to invest in rangeland-based enterprises, fostering ecological balance and economic growth, the communiqué stated.

Urgency of Action in the Face of Growing Dryland Challenges

The participants echoed the pressing need for urgent action to combat rangeland degradation and pastoral livelihood threats, emphasizing that healthy rangelands are vital for food security and peaceful coexistence.

The conference also leveraged the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) 2025 as a global platform to intensify awareness and strategic partnerships, according to the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Bayero University Kano.

Conference Partners and Future Outlook

The event received support from key institutions including icipe, RSIF, CIMMYT, ICRISAT, IITA, ILRI, PACET, Nigeria’s Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Environment, and the Commonwealth Geographic Bureau (CGB), as highlighted in the official communiqué.

In conclusion, the conference reinforced the need for ongoing research, capacity-building, and policy advocacy to safeguard the future of Africa’s drylands.

In a renewed effort to promote responsible journalism, mutual respect, and the protection of Kano State’s cultural and religious heritage, the forum of media owners together with Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya and National broadcasting commission (NBC) have moved to uphold ethical broadcasting through banning live political programs.

The stakeholders arrived at the decision during a quarterly meeting, convened by the Ministry of Information, aims to strengthen understanding and cooperation between media organizations and the government, in order to ensure effective information dissemination that upholds the dignity and image of Kano State.

Speaking at the session, Comrade Waiya expressed appreciation for the unwavering support of media leaders, which he said has contributed immensely to the ministry’s progress in curbing unethical content on public platforms. He commended the noticeable reduction in abusive language in some broadcast programmes, attributing the achievement to the productive engagements held in previous meetings.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to preserving the state’s moral standards, the Commissioner disclosed that sensitization programmes have been organized for political programme presenters, media commentators, and the Council of Friday Imams. These efforts, he noted, are designed to encourage responsible communication that conveys messages to the public without defamation or any act that could undermine the state’s reputation.

Comrade Waiya further clarified that the government’s stance is not to suppress political opposition but rather to safeguard the sanctity of Kano’s cultural and religious values.

Among the key resolutions reached during the meeting were:

– Anyone appearing on media platforms for interviews must sign an undertaking to refrain from making abusive, defamatory, or culturally offensive remarks.

– A ban has been placed on live political programmes across media outlets to prevent the spread of inflammatory content.

– Presenters were also banned from asking provocative questions or making suggestive gestures that could lead to statements capable of defaming individuals or damaging the image of Kano State.

Media executives at the meeting pledged their continued cooperation and offered valuable suggestions on improving broadcast standards and sanitizing language, all geared towards promoting peace and mutual respect in society.

By Abbas Yushau Yusuf

The National Executive Committee and the entire membership of the Birnin Kudu Old Boys Association (BIKOBA) have extended their heartfelt congratulations to their distinguished member, Professor Sani Ibrahim Khalil, on his elevation to the prestigious rank of Professor of Architecture and Urban Design at Bayero University, Kano.

In an official statement signed by Mahmud Ibrahim Kwari, the National Publicity Secretary of BIKOBA, the association praised Professor Khalil for his unwavering dedication, academic excellence, and significant contributions to the field of architecture and urban development. “This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to his hard work and commitment to scholarly excellence,” the statement read.

Professor Khalil, who currently serves as the Vice President I of BIKOBA, has been a pillar of innovation and research in architecture and urban design. According to the statement, his promotion is not just a personal triumph but also a moment of pride for BIKOBA and the association’s alma mater, Birnin Kudu Government College.

“His elevation brings great honor to our association and school, further cementing our legacy of producing outstanding scholars and professionals,” National President of BIKOBA, Alhaji Ja’afar Usman Muhammad (Turakin Gaya), remarked. He expressed confidence that Professor Khalil’s new rank would serve as a beacon of inspiration for both the academic community and young architects seeking to make their mark in the profession.

BIKOBA also noted that Professor Khalil’s contributions would continue to shape the landscape of urban development in Nigeria and beyond. They expressed their profound joy over the recognition of his achievements, wishing him continued success and greater milestones in his professional journey.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting distinguished members like Professor Khalil, celebrating their accomplishments, and fostering a network of excellence among alumni.

The congratulatory message was officially signed by National Publicity Secretary, Mahmud Ibrahim Kwari, on behalf of the National President, Alhaji Ja’afar Usman Muhammad (Turakin Gaya), dated May 7, 2025.

With this latest promotion, Professor Khalil joins the ranks of esteemed scholars contributing significantly to Nigeria’s architectural and urban design fields, further enhancing Bayero University, Kano’s reputation for academic excellence.