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ABCOAD Matriculates 739 New Students for 2024/2025 Academic Session

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Written by: Abdu Saidu

The Audu Bako College of Agriculture, Dambatta (ABCOAD), held its matriculation ceremony on May 28, 2025, formally welcoming 739 new students into its diverse academic programs. The event marked the beginning of a transformative academic journey for the fresh intakes.

The ceremony, rich in academic tradition and optimism, officially inducted the students into the vibrant intellectual and professional community of one of Nigeria’s foremost agricultural institutions.

In his keynote address, the Provost of the College, Professor M. A. Wailare, congratulated the new students on their successful admission. He described ABCOAD as a “citadel of learning with a proven track record of academic excellence and agricultural innovation.”

“You are privileged to be here today; gaining admission into this institution is not just an academic achievement but a call to higher responsibility—to contribute meaningfully to the development of our agricultural sector and the socio-economic growth of our nation,” he remarked.

Prof. Wailare reiterated the college’s commitment to producing not just certificate holders but solution-driven professionals capable of transforming the agricultural sector through innovation in crop production, livestock, environmental conservation, and agribusiness.

He assured the students of a conducive learning environment, competent faculty, and world-class facilities designed to support their academic and professional growth.

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With 14 operational departments, ABCOAD offers a variety of academic programs—including remedial, certificate, part-time, and full-time courses—catering to students with diverse backgrounds and career aspirations.

In line with its philosophy of hands-on training, the college has distinguished itself in practical agricultural instruction. Recently, ABCOAD partnered with the French Embassy and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to train 500 students in agribusiness entrepreneurship. The initiative aimed to empower students to become self-reliant and industry-ready, particularly in areas such as farm management, agri-value chain development, and food processing.

Prof. Wailare highlighted the institution’s dedication to transforming students into job creators, citing the initiative as a testament to the college’s broader mission.

He also expressed deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, for his unwavering support for ABCOAD. He commended the Governor’s education-focused policies aimed at uplifting the living standards of citizens and tackling poverty and societal ills.

“It is pertinent to acknowledge the support we received from the Kano State Government, especially the accreditation fund that facilitated the visit of the NBTE accreditation team in February, resulting in full accreditation for 12 academic programs,” the Provost said.

He further noted that the government’s intervention extended to covering overhead costs, slashing registration fees by 50%, sponsoring ABCOAD alumni for postgraduate studies abroad, and initiating major infrastructure projects. These include the renovation of the female hostel and the construction of a perimeter fence—both approved by the Kano State Executive Council to enhance security and comfort on campus.

Prof. Wailare also lauded the dedication and professionalism of both academic and non-academic staff, acknowledging their indispensable role in the college’s continued progress.

Barrister Salisu Haruna Ahmad administered the matriculation oath to the new students, officially recognizing them as bona fide members of the college community. He urged them to uphold discipline, respect institutional rules, and remain committed to academic excellence.

The event featured remarks from Heads of Departments, from the Dambatta community, and parents—all of whom encouraged the students to stay focused, disciplined, and patriotic.

The 2024/2025 matriculation ceremony reaffirmed ABCOAD’s status as a leader in agricultural education and innovation in Nigeria. As the college continues to grow in stature and impact, its newest students are poised to carry forward its legacy of excellence, transformation, and service to the nation.

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Prominent Kano Politician Ibrahim Little Sues Danagundi, Ibn Sina Over Hisbah Establishment

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A chieftain and leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kano State, Alhaji Ibrahim Ali Amin “Little,” has filed a legal action at the Kano State High Court challenging the establishment of an Independent Hisbah body in the state.

It will be recalled that Little had earlier written to the concerned parties, urging them to suspend the move in the interest of peace and stability in the state. A copy of the letter, addressed to former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, was also sent to the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf; Baffa Babba Danagundi; Haruna Ibn Sina; and the Department of State Services (DSS).

According to his Executive Assistant and Media Aide, Adnan Mukhtar, Little decided to seek legal redress following what he described as the respondents’ persistence and insistence on proceeding with the establishment of the Independent Hisbah.

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“Dissatisfied with their recent actions and continued insistence on moving forward with the establishment process, Little approached the Kano State High Court to seek redress,” Mukhtar said.

Those listed as respondents in the suit include the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, the Kano State House of Assembly, the Attorney General of Kano State, the Kano State Hisbah Board, Baffa Babba Danagundi, and Haruna Ibn Sina.

In an official statement posted on his Facebook page, Little said:

“I have today instructed my lawyers to file an action challenging the establishment of an Independent Hisbah in Kano State. This follows my recent letter to the parties concerned and their insistence on proceeding with the establishment of the Independent Hisbah.

 

“I believe this move is an attempt to disrupt our peaceful coexistence at a time when the state is facing security challenges.

 

“The peace of Kano State remains our utmost priority.

Kano Sabuwa, In sha Allahu.”

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Commissioning of Kano State Online Media Chapel Marks Historic Milestone in Journalism

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By: Ahmad Muhammad Sani Gwarzo, ANIPR

The commissioning of the Kano State Online Media Chapel at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kano State Council Secretariat marked a defining moment in the history of journalism practice in Kano State. The event reflects the continuous evolution of the media profession in response to digital transformation and modern communication realities.

The ceremony attracted prominent personalities from journalism and government circles, underscoring the importance of online media as a vital component of information dissemination, public enlightenment, and democratic engagement in contemporary society.

NUJ National President’s Remarks
In his keynote address, the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, described the commissioning as a progressive step aligned with global best practices in journalism, where digital platforms now play a central role in shaping public opinion and narratives.

He emphasized that the Online Media Chapel was not established merely for recognition, but to instill discipline, professionalism, and ethical compliance among online journalists operating within Kano State and beyond.

“Journalism remains a noble profession that demands responsibility, truthfulness, and accountability, regardless of whether it is practiced through print, broadcast, or online platforms,” Abdullahi stated. He cautioned against the misuse of digital platforms for misinformation, character assassination, and unverified reports, warning that such practices pose serious threats to societal peace, national security, and the credibility of the profession.

The NUJ President charged members of the Online Media Chapel to see themselves as ambassadors of responsible journalism, committed to accuracy, balance, and fairness in all their reports. He assured that the national body would continue to provide guidance, support, and policy direction to ensure online journalists are fully integrated into the union’s professional framework.

Kano State Government’s Position
Delivering his remarks, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, described the commissioning as a timely intervention in the state’s information ecosystem.

He noted that the Kano State Government recognizes the influence of online media in shaping public perception and applauded the NUJ for organizing practitioners under a structured and accountable platform.

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The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment under the leadership of His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, FNISE, to sustaining a healthy relationship with the media as partners in governance and development. He urged online journalists to use their platforms to promote peace, unity, and developmental initiatives, stressing that responsible reporting remains a key pillar for social stability and economic growth.

“Freedom of expression must go hand in hand with respect for the law, ethical standards, and cultural values,” Waiya emphasized, assuring the chapel of the ministry’s readiness to engage constructively with practitioners to ensure accurate dissemination of government policies and programs.

NUJ Kano State Council’s Perspective
Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the NUJ Kano State Council, Comrade Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, welcomed guests and described the day as historic for the council and online media practitioners.

He explained that the decision to establish the Online Media Chapel was borne out of the need to accommodate the growing number of journalists operating on digital platforms within Kano State.

Comrade Dederi noted that the chapel would serve as a platform for capacity building, ethical regulation, and collective engagement, aimed at improving the welfare and professional competence of its members. He reiterated the council’s commitment to fostering unity among all chapels under the NUJ umbrella, emphasizing that journalism thrives best in an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect.

Online Media Chapel’s Commitment
Speaking on behalf of online media practitioners, the Kano State Chairman of the Online Media Chapel, Comrade Abubakar Abdulkadir Dangambo, described the commissioning as a dream fulfilled and a turning point for online journalism in Kano State.

He expressed gratitude to the NUJ leadership at both state and national levels for formally recognizing online journalists as critical stakeholders in the media industry.

Comrade Dangambo pledged that members of the chapel would operate with professionalism, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility to the public. He emphasized that the chapel would prioritize training, mentorship, and internal regulation to ensure members uphold the ethics of journalism at all times.

He further stressed the collective resolve of members to combat fake news, hate speech, and sensational reporting that could undermine social harmony, calling on online journalists to see the chapel as a platform for unity, self-discipline, and continuous learning in line with global journalism standards.

Conclusion
The atmosphere of the event reflected shared optimism and commitment by all stakeholders toward strengthening journalism practice in the digital era. Participants expressed confidence that the Online Media Chapel would contribute positively to professional development, public trust, and credible information dissemination.

The establishment of the chapel was widely acknowledged as a proactive response to the challenges and opportunities presented by digital journalism. The commissioning ceremony concluded with a collective call for ethical journalism, unity among practitioners, and sustained engagement in advancing the role of the media in national development.

The Kano State Online Media Chapel now stands as a symbol of progress, professionalism, and adaptation, reflecting the enduring relevance of journalism in a rapidly changing digital world.

 

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Sharada Highlights Africa’s Security Concerns at Washington Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum

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Hon. Sohan Dasgupta, Former Assistant Secretary for Trade and Economic Security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, with Hon. Shaaban Sharada.

 

 

As the 31st Washington Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum (PI-SF) concluded, participants exchanged ideas on pressing global security challenges and explored actionable solutions aimed at making the world a safer place. The forum brought together lawmakers, security experts, and policymakers from across the globe to deliberate on strategies for peace, intelligence cooperation, and stability.

Speaking after the meeting, Hon. Shaaban Ibrahim Sharada, former Chairman of Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence, emphasized the importance of leveraging such platforms to address Africa’s unique security concerns.

Sharada, who also serves as the Forum’s Director for African Parliamentarians Engagements and a member of its steering committee, noted that discussions at the event were particularly relevant to Nigeria and the wider African continent during this challenging period.

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“I engaged in meaningful discussions on peace and stability in Africa, particularly in my country, during this trying moment,” Sharada stated. He expressed optimism that the knowledge gained at the forum would be communicated back to stakeholders within his jurisdiction, fostering collaboration with PI-SF to strengthen Africa’s security architecture and promote global understanding.

Sharada said there is the need for African leaders to take advantage of international platforms like PI-SF to build partnerships that can help tackle terrorism, insurgency, and other transnational threats. He stressed that Africa’s security challenges require not only local solutions but also global cooperation, given their impact on international peace and stability.

The Washington Parliamentary Intelligence Security Forum has become a key gathering for legislators and security professionals worldwide, providing a space to share experiences and develop strategies to counter evolving threats. With Sharada’s active role in bridging African parliamentarians and the forum, Nigeria’s voice continues to resonate in global security dialogues.

 

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