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As ECOWAS States’ Association Awards DSP Barau for Legislative Excellence

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By Abba Anwar

The Deputy Senate President Distinguished Senator Barau Jibrin’s commitment and Pan African posture is recognized beyond the showers of Nigeria, as an association from ECOWAS States, called
Réseau des Jeunes du Sahel pour le Progrès, le Développement et la Démocratie (Network of Sahel Youth for Progress, Development and Democracy) recognizes him with SANKOFA Award for Legislative Excellence in Africa.

Mr Fassoko Doumbia, the President of the association who was represented by Dr Najib Usman, during the Award Ceremony, discloses that, “This year’s Award goes to a man who embodies the spirit of unity and visionary leadership. Senator Barau I. Jibrin of Nigeria, stood out among six exceptional nominees from across the region to win this inaugural Award.”

They encouraged that, “As Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Barau has been a champion of inclusive development, infrastructure growth, and educational reform. His leadership shows us that legislation can be more than just lawmaking — it can be nation-building.”

It is crystal clear for all to understand how relevant and important Deputy Senate President, who also happens to be the First Deputy Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Barau is, to the progress and development of our sub-region.

This Award gives proper interpretation of how the awardee proves his mettle when it comes to the definition in humor, progressive engagement, unwavering patriotism, invaluable commitment to democracy and development.

It is as inarguable as it is a reality that Africa is not only interested in this gentleman, even his legislative steps and his indelible mark in governance are closely observed by sub-regional democratic tools. This association, in this context.

Mr Usman, talking from the standpoint of Pan Africanism and in appreciation of DSP’s role across the sub-region, urges that, “The Sahel and West Africa stand at a crossroads. The challenges we face — insecurity, poverty, and political instability — will not be solved by isolation or division.

It is time to heal, to reconcile, and to rebuild our bonds as one region, one family. We therefore call on ECOWAS and all regional leaders to take bold steps to readmit Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali into the community of nations. Unity is not a luxury — it is a necessity for progress.”

The Award is the first of its kind to an illustrious son of Africa. Which signifies that our Nigerian Senator, in person of DSP Barau, is not only a symbol of excellence, hardwork, genuine commitment, embodiment of courage and humility all in the spirit of brotherhood, but a great asset of substance and fruitful engagement for Africa’s sustainable development.

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Which prompted the SANKOFA Award to come his way. Especially when the President of the association acknowledged that, “Today marks a historic moment for our network and for our beloved region. For the very first time, we gather to present the Sankofa Award for Legislative Excellence — an award designed to honor those whose work in the legislature is shaping a better tomorrow for Africa.”

It is no longer a secret to say that with political leaders like DSP Barau, sub-regional and regional integration are but few miles away, that can be reached in no distance future. As put by Dr Usman who disclosed that, ” This event is also a testament to our collective commitment to regional solidarity. Some of our most dedicated members have traveled from across the Sahel and spent the last five days here in Abuja preparing for this presentation.

I wish to specially recognize Mr. Ndao from Senegal, Mr. Bukum from Mopti, Mali, and Mr. Diallo from Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Your presence here reminds us that this award is not just a Nigerian affair — it is a celebration of the entire region’s hope for better governance and stronger democracies.”

As the Award is being handed over to the Awardee, Dr Usman appreciates that, ” Senator Barau, it is my great honor to present you with the first-ever Sankofa Award for Legislative Excellence. May this inspire not just you, but all of us, to work together for a Sahel that is peaceful, united, and prosperous.”

Come and listen to this gentleman and a rare gem of abundant substance in his response after receiving the Award Distinguished Senator Barau appreciated that, “I thank you for recognizing what I have been doing in the legislature of our country. And for the unity of our continent. I feel this Award is not the end of the entire thing. It is a wake up call for me to do more. So I take it as a challenge.”

To tell you how fast and engaging is the Senator in fulfilling his assigned responsibility from ECOWAS Parliament, he reveals that, “As the Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, I and my other colleagues are up and doing to work round the clock, to foster unity. For the integration of the people of the sub-region.”

The patriotism and Pan Africanism in him led his mind to pray that, “We do hope that Mali, Niger Republic and Barkina Faso will soon come on board, like Guinea. If you look at the configuration of our people, we are one and the same. So let’s continue to put heads together for the integration, progress and development of the sub-region and Africa as a whole.”

As he acknowledged and appreciated the group, he said. “What you are doing now is in line with our core mandate, to integrate our people. I can’t thank you enough. The fact that you have spoken your local languages, shows that, yes you are all ready for the integration of our people.”

The Deputy Senate President, with a courageous voice filled with hope assured how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing wonderfully well in integrating people and their environment across the Sahel. His words, ” We are also thankful that the Chairman of ECOWAS, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing well in this respect for integrating our people.”

The philosophy behind SANKOFA was mentioned, when Dr Usman highlighted that, “The Sankofa bird teaches us to look back and learn, even as we move forward. And today, as we celebrate our honoree, we must also challenge ourselves to reflect on the state of governance, peace, and unity in our region.”

Anwar writes from Kano State
Sunday, 7th September, 2025

Politics

From Grassroots To NASS:Hon Haruna Kabiru Wakili Answers Fagge’s 2027 Call

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The people of Fagge Local Government Area have praised the efforts, patriotism, and support shown by one of the area’s young men across different aspects of life, despite not holding any political office.

Hon. Kabiru Haruna Wakili has become prominent in Fagge for his service to the community. He is a politician who builds youth development from the grassroots by supporting self-reliance skills and access to education.

Because of his drive and passion to keep supporting the people, the community in Fagge is backing his political journey. They believe that if given the opportunity, he will further develop the area.

Wakili is well known in the political struggle. He has stood on his own, once led a political party, and contested for the House of Representatives in the last election.

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Hon. Kabiru Haruna Wakili is now a member of the APC. He has a strong relationship and good rapport with politicians and the wider community in Fagge, right from the grassroots. That is why, as the 2027 elections approach, many believe he deserves their support.

Youths and elders, men and women in Fagge are urging APC delegates in the primaries to field credible people who stand with the community. They have strong confidence in Hon. Wakili for this election season.

The people of Fagge say Hon. Kabiru Haruna Wakili is with them and involved in their affairs. They believe that if he gets the mandate, he will not distance himself from them, unlike some past representatives who often ignored the needs of their constituents.

Following repeated calls from the people of Fagge, Hon. Haruna Kabiru Wakili has responded that, by God’s grace, he will contest for the House of Representatives under the APC.

He appealed to party members, elders, leaders, and executives of the APC in Fagge, both men and women, to give him their cooperation and support to secure victory.

Hon. Wakili also called on party stakeholders to confirm him as the consensus candidate, since it was the people of Fagge who asked him to run.

He added that even if it comes to a primary election, he is confident the people of Fagge will back him to clinch the APC ticket, and in the 2027 general election they will turn out to vote for him.

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How Abdurrahman Mainasara Salga Built ADC Into A Political Force In Dala

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There are many people with noble intentions who genuinely desire the progress of society. Every day, they strive to serve and support their communities in various aspects of life with their personal resources, without holding any official position or title.

This is driven by patriotism, compassion, and the desire to see people especially the less privileged and upcoming youth — live a life of ease without hardship.

Many people can attest to the kind of community support and development efforts carried out by some individuals.

Ambassador Abdulrahman Mansur Mainasara Salga is one of the well-known figures in Dala Local Government Area and Kano State at large, recognized for his good character, generosity, and commitment to community development.

Because of his generosity and kindness to the people, many have encouraged him to join politics. They believe it would give him more confidence and opportunity to advance his goal of continuing to support the public. This is what motivated him to venture into politics.

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He is a politician who believes in doing what is right. That is why he advocates for everything to be placed on the path of truth and justice. In the 2023 elections, he contested for the Federal House of Representatives seat in Dala Local Government. It is well known how he stood firm in ensuring fairness and justice within the party under which he contested, especially during the primary elections.

Everyone knows that Amb. Abdulrahman Mainasara has been at the forefront of serving the ADC since he joined. He made the party gain acceptance in Dala Local Government Area long before other political heavyweights in Kano joined the party, which has now become the major opposition party in the country.

The people of Dala Local Government are witnesses to how Hon. Abdulrahman Mainasara Salga devoted his time to building the ADC. He ensured it was accepted and established a strong foothold in Dala — a local government that serves as the political hub of Kano State. He served the party, opened offices for it, and mobilized support, in addition to his efforts in addressing community needs.

Indeed, the current political momentum in Dala, especially within the ADC, echoes the efforts of Ambassador Abdulrahman Salga Mainasara. He is seen by people in the area as the backbone of the party’s acceptance, and the most qualified to be put forward for the Federal House of Representatives seat in the local government. He is the only person who stood and nurtured the party to the level it has reached today.

Politicians and political observers have noted how many people are now joining the party. Many of them came in solely with the ambition to contest elections. For this reason, they are calling on party leaders and elders, such as Kwankwasiyya leader Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and other ADC stakeholders, to carefully consider fielding individuals who truly have the people’s development at heart during the primaries.

Consequently, in Dala Local Government, no one is seen by the community as more suitable, deserving, and credible to be fielded as the ADC candidate for the Federal House of Representatives than Ambassador Abdulrahman Mansur Mainasara Salga. He is the man who stood to ensure the party’s growth while also supporting community development. All the people of Dala would trust him in the 2027 elections.

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Kano Deputy Governorship, My Reiterated Position : My Challenge Against Riffraff

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By Abba Anwar

It very clear to my readers, that I kept quite at the initial stage of the heated debate hovering around our political development in Kano. When Deputy Governor His Excellency, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, resigned from his position few days back.

I kept quite not because I had nothing to contribute to the debate. I was only observing genuine and fake commentators. Those who talk directly from their clean hearts. And those who say one thing before point A and change tone under the same issue before point B.

Before reiterating my position, which was already in the public domain, “Why Hues, Cries Against Garo,” authored April 5th, 2026, let me say this, with all sincerity of purpose, while referring my readers back to what I wrote before now. All the write-ups are still available and can be searched.

What is that I want to say? I am an ardent advocate for unity and cooperation among leaders and followers of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano state. On this particular issue of unity, I am more concerned with Kano than Nigeria as a whole.

Secondly I don’t hide my political feelings all along. My defence are my write-ups. For the simple reason that, I write frequently for His Excellency, Deputy Senate President, Barau I Jibrin, CFR, that doesn’t mean I cannot write something and praise His Excellency, Deputy Gubernatorial Candidate, under APC, in 2023 election, Murtala Sule Garo.

It is double standard if I cannot tell Barau how I respect Garo. And vice versa. Nowhere in the past, when I support any form of divisions among our political leaders. I always called for unity, internal cohesion and coming together for a united front and purpose.

Yes I write more and more for Barau than Garo, but that does not mean I cannot express my political feelings or reasoning, that may not likely be palatable for Barau.

On 5th October, 2024, please go and search, I wrote “Barau’s Political Gamble : Ignoring His Supporters for Kwankwasiyya and NNPP Defectors.” In it I said, “Senator Barau, despite his admirable record of representation and infrastructure projects, seems distracted by these unnecessary political maneuvers. The time spent wooing disloyal members of rival parties would be better utilized in strengthening his political base. He should focus on empowering those who have supported him from the start, especially the youth and grassroots leaders who have been instrumental in his rise.”

As I said the above for Barau, I said this for Garo, in my write – up captioned, “Garo’s Bitter Truth and Kano’s Development,” dated January 5th, 2025, “For the first time, yes first time, in this republic, I mean since the restoration of our democracy from 1999 to date, I came across a prominent politician in Kano, blaming our leading politicians in the state, particularly past governors, over non-challant attitudes towards teaming up for the sake of state development.”

Not only Garo, with all my good write – ups for Barau, I still found it desirable to wrote something and commend Hon Abubakar Kabir Bichi, member representing Bichi federal constituency, at the House of Representatives. Bichi too, is seen by many as a die-hard political opponent for Barau. Go and search my piece titled, “Fateful Triangle : Kano APC’s Stronghold, Kano North,” dated 5th May, 2025.

I don’t hide my political leaning to anybody. Let people know that, with all modesty, I am just above collecting resources from so so person and write bad thing against another person in this race for Deputy Governorship in Kano. I cannot collect any inducement from opponents to write bad about Hon Kabiru Alasan Rurum, or Hon Rabi’u Sulaiman Bichi or HE Garo or Right Honourable Speaker, State House of Assembly, Hon Falgore.

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I cannot do that. And at the same time, I cannot write any bad thing and give to other opponents to write someone’s name. I don’t do that! Man, I am above that! When I believe in something, I dont hide.

LET ME PUT MY CHALLENGE FORWARD, WHOEVER KNOWS THAT SO SO PERSON GAVE ME SOMETHING AND I WROTE A SINGLE LINE EVEN, OR A PARAGRAPH, OR A COMPLETE ARTICLE AND GAVE IT TO ANOTHER PERSON’S OPPONENT TO PUT A PEN NAME, NOT MY NAME, AND USE IT AGAINST SOMEONE, WHOEVER KNOWS THIS AND KEEPS QUITE MAY ALLAH CURSE HIS LIFE COMPLETELY. LET HIM COME FORWARD WITH HIS EVIDENCE PLEASE AND MAKE IT PUBLIC. AND IF I DID THAT AND NOW SAID I DIDN’T DO, MAY ALLAH, OUR CREATOR, CURSE MY LIFE COMPLETELY TOO!!! AND WHOEVER GAVE ME A PENNY TO DO THAT AND KEEPS QUITE, MAY ALLAH CURSE HIM TOO!!!

Whenever I write something, I own it, no matter what. Let me give an example here, yes I worked under His Excellency, former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, as his Chief Press Secretary, for six good years, but few months back during Tsanyawa /Kunchi and Bagwai/Shanono by-elections, after the declaration of the results by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), what I saw was nothing to write home about. Not impressive at all.

I immediately picked my pen and wrote an article, captioned, “Kano By-election : The Beginning of an End Era,” dated 17th August, 2025, in it, I called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, that he should review his political appointees who came from there, Kano North and immediately remove those who cannot perform as his good Ambassadors. I gave an example with the son of my boss, Engineer Abba Ganduje. I didn’t use any other name. I wrote it, I owned it and it was published and widely circulated. Please go and check.

The piece partly says, “To Allah Who Created me from nothing, if sadism, treachery and unnecessary political confrontation continue to take lead in our political relationship, especially among our leaders, APC is going nowhere in Kano. Even if it is leading Africa not Nigeria. Kano is known for its radical political engagement. I suggest President Tinubu should, I can’t say must – being a President – hastily look inward in Kano’s appointments and make necessary modifications.

For example, looking at the Kano North, where APC lost in this by-election, what is the use and relevance of appointments like that of Eng Umar Abdullahi Umar (Abba Ganduje) among other irrelevant appointments? What is the wisdom behind dropping people like Murtala Garo from the zone? What is the wisdom behind the unnecessary face-off between our elected people from the zone? What for?!”

When I wrote another article, where I blamed APC leadership in Kano for distraction and destruction, who gave me penny? And whose name was there as the author? The piece is titled, “Kano APC in Discombobulation : As Ploys Against DSP Barau Thickens,” dated December 15th, 2025. So I am beyond that, with all sense of modesty.

My position for Deputy Governorship, as I said very clearly in my recent write-up, captioned, “Why Hues, Cries Against Garo,” dated April, 5th, 2026, is Garo. I spoke out my reasons for his choice. My reader can kindly go and search.

In it I said, “And the way I see it, Garo is not desperate about it. He isn’t so desperate to become a Deputy Governor. My view, I stand to be corrected. As it is now, former Governors and former Deputy Governors, are still benefiting from him, from many standpoints.

Garo, unlike former Deputy Governor and Gubernatorial candidate under the platform of APC in 2023 election, His Excellency Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, who after he lost 2023 election was appointed, Chairman Governing Board, Bayero University, Kano and Chairman Board of Directors of Mortgage Bank, exited from APC recently to African Democratic Congress (ADC), in search of more political breathing space, Garo remains in the party without any appointment, whatsoever.

All along, nowhere was it reported that Garo was castigating the party at either state or national level. Now a vacancy arises, and the space is naturally available without any effort from anybody. Who then is in the best position to be compensated? If not Garo, who?”

When the write – up was published, Barau didn’t rise an eyebrow about it. In fact I sent him the links of all the online platforms that published the piece. The same way as, whenever I wrote something about Barau, Garo was one of the first people I send my write-ups to. Even for once, Garo never complained about it. And he didn’t change mood when we meet. I still believe misunderstanding between Barau and Garo or between Barau and Abban Bichi or between Garo and former State Party Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, or between any other leader or their followers, is not necessary please. All the leaders need each other. They believe it or not.

Anwar writes from Kano
Friday 17th April, 2026

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