A non-governmental organization, Non-Formal Development for Education and Health Initiative (NODEHI), has embarked on a sensitization program to educate persons with disabilities in Kano State about the Disability Law passed by the State Assembly. The initiative seeks to bridge the knowledge gap among the physically challenged and push for the speedy establishment of a disability commission to ensure full implementation of the law.

Speaking at the gathering, Dr. Auwalu Halilu, Adviser to NODEHI, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among persons with disabilities about their rights under the law. He noted that many physically challenged individuals were not even aware of the provisions of the legislation.

“We gathered the physically challenged persons to enlighten them on the Disability Law and the steps required for its implementation. If strictly enforced, the law will help reduce street hawking among persons with disabilities. While the law has been partially implemented, the commission that should oversee its enforcement is yet to be established. We hope our recommendations will guide the government towards proper implementation,” Dr. Halilu stated.

Participants at the event expressed both optimism and concern. Abdurazak Ado Zango, one of the attendees, acknowledged government efforts but lamented the lack of proper monitoring. He stressed the need for inclusive education and guidance, particularly in confronting challenges faced by disabled students in examinations conducted by JAMB and WAEC.

“Government is trying its best, but unfortunately, progress is not being tracked. We should be pacesetters in educating the physically challenged. Funds meant for disability support must be accessible and not diverted. Each ministry should have a desk officer to represent persons with disabilities,” Zango said.

Adding her voice, Ambassador Rabia Yusuf Gezawa, Executive Director of the Gender and Disability Inclusion Advocacy Center, described the sensitization as crucial for stakeholders. She highlighted the slow pace of implementation since the law was passed during the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and reintroduced under the current Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

“The bill has been moving very slowly. Although Governor Yusuf is familiar with the law, more needs to be done. Each ministry, department, and agency should appoint directors to ensure compliance. There should also be customized instruments and interpreters to make the law accessible to all,” Gezawa explained.

Stakeholders called for the immediate establishment of the Disability Commission, which they believe will serve as a central body to coordinate implementation, monitor compliance, and ensure that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into government programs.

The program appealed to the Kano State Government to prioritize disability inclusion, allocate more budgetary resources, and guarantee that persons with disabilities are represented across ministries and agencies.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Kano State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Yusuf Ibrahim Kofarmata, has resigned his appointment with immediate effect, citing the state’s “prevailing political turmoil.”

Kofarmata announced his decision in a formal resignation letter, expressing concern that the current political climate could compromise the independence and impartiality required of his office.

He argued that the growing tension and expectations of political loyalty risked creating a perception—or reality—of compromised judgment, which he said was inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of a State Commissioner.

“The integrity of the State Commissioner’s role rests on the ability to act without undue influence, partisan pressure, or divided allegiance,” Kofarmata stated. He added that remaining in office under such circumstances could erode public confidence in the institution.

He explained that his resignation was motivated by a desire to safeguard the credibility of his office and uphold his personal commitment to ethical public service.

Kofarmata thanked the Kano State Government for the opportunity to serve in various ministries, stating that his tenure allowed him to contribute to policy reforms and the state’s development.

“I remain grateful for the opportunity to have served, and for the trust placed in me during my tenure,” he said. He expressed hope that his departure would allow the institution to function without question or constraint.

He formally requested that his resignation be accepted as official notice of his disengagement from the Kano State Executive Council.

His resignation comes amid a period of heightened political tension and realignment in Kano, sparking public debate over governance and institutional independence in the state.

The Kano State Government has revealed that the state currently has over 4.7 million pupils enrolled in primary schools, following a comprehensive census conducted to assess the state of education.

Haladu Muhammad, Technical Adviser to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Education, disclosed the figures during the celebration of the International Day of Education held in Kano. He emphasized that the census exposed hidden challenges within the education sector, particularly the sharp drop in enrollment from primary to secondary schools.

“We have over four million pupils in primary schools, but in secondary schools, the number is not more than one million. This is largely due to the lack of classrooms, which prevents many pupils from progressing,” Muhammad explained.

Muhammad noted that the Yusuf administration is prioritizing infrastructure development to bridge the gap. He said the government is renovating dilapidated classrooms and constructing new ones to accommodate the growing population of pupils.

He further highlighted the teacher shortage, stating that Kano has 8,000 primary schools with fewer than 50,000 teachers. When the administration came into office, there were only 30,000 teachers, but recruitment has since increased the number to 50,000, with more hiring ongoing.

“Our goal is to reach a ratio of one teacher to 60 students, and eventually one teacher to 50 students,” he added.

Dr. Auwalu Halilu of the Education Forum praised the role of School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs) in improving teaching and learning. He explained that SBMCs act as community representatives, safeguarding government properties, preventing vandalism, and ensuring that children remain in school.

“Our guiding principle is to make schools community-owned, to ensure every child belongs to the community and no child is left on the streets,” Halilu said.

Ibrahim S. Saleh, Secretary of Kano SBMC, also commended the committees for tackling security challenges in schools. He cited recent incidents in Yankaba where drug addicts attempted to occupy school premises but were chased away by SBMC members.

Aminu Ilyasu, Ward Head of Kumbotso and SBMC Chairman in the area, stressed that SBMCs are playing a vital role in raising awareness about the importance of education, monitoring schools, and supporting government efforts in infrastructure development.

“We are making our people aware of the importance of education. SBMCs are overseeing schools, uplifting them, and ensuring students attend regularly,” Ilyasu said.

The Kano State Government has pledged to conduct annual pupil censuses to better understand and address the evolving challenges in the education sector. With over 4.7 million pupils in primary schools and a pressing need for infrastructure and teachers, the administration says it is determined to ensure that every child in Kano has access to quality education.