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Barau Scholarship, Global Courses and Addressing Northern Underdevelopment

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Senator Barau Jibrin

 

By Abba Anwar

I deliberately coined Barauism as a concept being inspired by values and principles of the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, suggesting his philosophy, movement and ideology for hastening the process of development in Kano, other parts of Northern Nigeria and the nation by extension.

Let me start by congratulating, not DSP Barau for now, but the process for the selection of his scholarship beneficiaries, numbering 70. Out of this number, 65 are males, while the remaining 5 are females.

Due diligence, merit, clear vision and above all, independence of the process and procedures, from start to finish, were the bedrock of the political will, which brought the successful candidates into limelight.

The first time, to my knowledge, in Northern Nigeria, probably the South also, except in rare case(s) if that existed, when an individual political office holder and/or elected representative, provided similar scholarship for the study of these carefully selected courses, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Robotic Science for such number of students. At a go. I stand to be corrected.

These are areas that shape our world today. Making those selected to be global citizens who, after finishing their programmes would come and hasten the process of development in Kano and the nation in general.

The first time in Kano recent history, when such number of students were sent abroad to study 21st Century programmes, at a go. I mean all courses of study for the entire 70 beneficiaries are 21st Century fields. Not even a government, talkless of an individual philanthropist. I am referring to the chosen areas of study. I stand to be corrected.

Just like Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, of Kano South and Hon Abubakar Bichi, representing Bichi Federal Constituency, Senator Barau moves to second stage of human Empowerment. With different style and approach. As the courses, country of study and institutions indicate.

This time around, not cash grants or craft tools, like sewing machines, farming implements and the rest. But education, education and education. Of carefully selected programmes.

Surely Barau understands the velocity at which societal growth and development move and fit into modern technology, that have all potentialities for global recognition and acceptance.

When it comes to improved healthcare, increased efficiency in all fabrics of the society, enhanced education and smart infrastructure, among others, Artificial Intelligence is there.

For improving and engaging real technology for national security, job creation and sustainable economic growth and development, among others, Cybersecurity takes charge. Barau has the intelligence to understand this calculus.

As Hon Barau clearly sees beyond local politics, he chooses some of the most relevant and marketable programmes for the already airlifted students for their higher Degrees. The choice of India, for these courses, is in itself extraordinary and engaging.

Under Robotics Science, industrial automation, productivity, accuracy and efficiency in manufacturing are well placed for improvement. While in the healthcare sector this all-important programme, plays an important role in adding up in the areas of patient care, surgeries as well as rehabilitation of global standard.

It also helps much in monitoring and mitigating effects of climate change, pollution and other natural disasters. People of such educational attainment, in Robotics, have an added advantage over others in studying and understanding the universe in a scientific way. That is space exploration at its best.

Just two days to new year, Barau witnessed the airlift of those beneficiaries, when he reveals that, “One of the areas that we have a problem in educating our youth is the northwestern part of this country. We have a youth population, which is an asset to us, but our problem is that they are not well-educated. And I feel that our number one solution to our problems is educating our youth.”

“And we understand the importance of human capital. It’s key to the development of every nation.

It’s in this regard that I feel that the best thing to do is to begin to educate, help, or complement what the president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is doing in terms of giving access to indigent students, our youth, who do not have the wherewithal, whose parents do not have the wherewithal to train them educationally.”

So he has the entire Northwest in mind.

As he also promised that, he would provide the beneficiaries with resources for their startups. This tells us that, Hon Barau is targeting at making Kano excel in innovation and entrepreneurship. To become Nigeria’s Silicon Valley.

Which will automatically lead to the emergence of new businesses and job opportunities for the overall development of the state.

While at the same time, such effort automatically leads to skills development, collaboration and teamwork for socio-economic impacts.

The nature and style of this scholarship where beneficiaries come from across local governments, not limited to his Constituency Kano North, but from all parts of the state, is the first of its kind.

People expect and wish that, other politicians, not only from All Progressives Congress (APC) should take a leaf from the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Barau I. Jibrin. Moving to second stage of empowerment programmes.

Anwar was former Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Can be reach @ fatimanbaba1@gmail.com
31st December, 2024

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Opinion

Uromi Killings, Barau’s Intervention and Responsible Representation

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By Abba Anwar

Before any note on the barbaric Uromi mob action, let me begin with prayer for The Almighty Allah to Bless and Forgive the gentle soul of Galadiman Kano, Alhaji Abbas Sanusi, the son of the late Emir of Kano and Grand Khalifa of Tijjaniyya, Sir Muhammadu Sanusi and the father of the Kano State Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Abbas.

Whenever I sighted the late Galadiman Kano, my mind naturally recollects the face of his respected and revered father, our Tijjaniyya guide, beacon of hope, an epitome of greatness and scholarship, Sir Sanusi, whom I was privilege to visit in both Azare and Wudil, with my parents, when I was much younger, but not toddling.

We had a tradition back in the family, that the younger ones were included in such visits turn by turn. So I was included in two visits to Azare and two visits to Wudil. Where the blessed hands of Sir Sanusi were on my head full with prayers. Alhamdulillah.

ALLAH YA JIKAN GALADIMAN KANO, ALHAJI ABBAS SANUSI

Coming down to the barbaric incident that affected legitimate hunters, in Uromi, Esan North East of Edo state, where 16 hunters were burned to death, an incident that went viral in both the traditional and the new media, the action was condemned across the nation.

Political leaders, governments and other humane elements were up and doing dismissing the anti-human development as condemnable and animalistic.

While I acknowledge and appreciate the concerns of many, I was personally moved by extra efforts put by the Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin, for moving extra miles and strategizing ways for redress. Responsive and responsible leadership at work.

He immediately condemned the mob action dastardly exhibited when it happened. Then followed by many other well meaning Nigerians. Kudos to all in this direction.

When the Governor of Edo state, H. E. Monday Okpebholo paid a condolence visit to Barau in Abuja, the Deputy Senate President said,
“We cannot undo what has been done. But we all want – all Nigerians, what they are looking forward to, is to make sure that these people are arrested and brought to justice. And you are doing well in that direction. And I’m also glad you’ve spoken about the fact that your government is ready to assist the families of those affected.”

To tell you how concerned Barau is he further stated that, ” I want you to continue to pursue the case so that all those who were involved in these barbaric actions are brought to justice. It’s a barbaric action, to say the facts.

If they are brought to justice, it would serve as a deterrent to those who might want to do this in future. I know that people from other parts of the country have been staying with your people in Edo for centuries in a very conducive atmosphere. And this barbaric act has never happened. I’m sure, under your watch, this will not happen again.”

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The Deputy Senate President didn’t stop at that, he called the attention of the President and other well meaning Nigerians, including the security agencies, lamenting over the sad development.

Edo state Governor, started with Senator Barau and from there, based on his fruitful discussion with the Deputy Senate President, he was convinced that his coming to Kano, could douse tension and portray him (Edo Governor) as right thinking leader. Of which he attested to that.

Even before he left Senator Barau in Abuja for Kano, the Governor was made to understand the importance of paying condolence visit to the hometown of the slained victims. Which he also complied. A good of him indeed.

So he came to Kano, visited the Governor of Kano State, His Excellency Abba Kabir Yusuf. From there he proceeded to the see the families of the victims.

What I am trying to portray here is, how the DSP put all the strategies in place for bringing the culprits to book, to douse tension and see ways of giving helping hand to the families of the deceased and to those who sustained injuries.

Governor Okpebholo’s first disclosure about his effort in dealing with the situation was first known during his visit to the Deputy Senate President, when he explained that, “It’s unfortunate that it happened in our state. We are here to say, to let you and other people know that we are not happy.

The President is doing something drastic about this. He is not happy also. The IG has swung into action. The DIG CID is in charge. So far, they have arrested 14 suspects.

So they are bringing them to Abuja for interrogation. We have also set up a Committee to see that we take care of the families of the deceased.”

Distinguished Senator Barau did not stop at that, he visited families of the victims who were gathered at At-Taqwa Mosque, Sabon Fegi, Bunkure local government, as all victims came from Bunkure, Rano and Kibiya local governments, Kano state.

To cushion the effect of trauma in those families he gave the sum of One Million Naira (N1m) to each of families of the 16 deceased ones. Making it a total of N16m in all.

During his visit he was quoted to have said, “I was worried when the incident happened. I had to call the Governor, security agencies and all stakeholders involved.

They swung into action. So far apart from the 14 people who have been arrested, two more suspects have been nabbed. The state governor, who visited my house in Abuja, has assured me that the state government will support you.

We will not take it lightly. We will ensure that the culprits are brought to book and face the wrath of the law.”

Examining and appreciating Barau’s leadership qualities since the occurrence of the ugly incident, the entire families of the deceased commended him through the Chief Imam of the area, Sheikh Zainul Abidina Auwal.

They unequivocally thanked the Senator for his unwavering efforts in ensuring justice, adding that, “Rankai dade Senator you prove to be an excellent representative of your people. You are the leader we so much cherish. Your style of leadership is direly needed for the country’s development.”

To compliment his effort with legislative action, DSP Barau assured that when Senate resumes after Sallah holiday, he would sponsor a Bill to look into the activities of Vigilant groups and their modus operandi.

This will go a long way in checkmating their legitimate activities and other nefarious activities allegedly attach to their operations across the country.

His understanding of the situation and his great concern for Nigerians regardless of where they come from, prompts his moves from multi – faceted approach to make sure that Nigeria is safe and developed.

Anwar was Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje CON and can be reached at fatimanbaba1@gmail.com

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Opinion

Clarification On Recent Events During The Eid-El-Fitr Celebration In Kano: A Response To The GiGG’s Malicious Statement

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Clarification On Recent Events During The Eid-El-Fitr Celebration In Kano: A Response To The GiGG’s Malicious Statement

In light of the recent malicious statement issued by the Global Initiatives for Good Governance (GIGG), which disrespects constituted authority and has the potential to cause uncertainty and security breaches regarding the events during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in Kano, it is important to provide clarification regarding the actions of both the Emir of Kano, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi II, and Governor HE. Abba Kabir Yusuf.

First and foremost, it is essential to clarify that there was no Durbar held during this Eid celebration. Rather, what took place was the Emir’s procession to and from the Eid prayer at Kofar Mata, located outside the eastern city wall. This procession is a long-standing Islamic tradition (Sunnah), which involves taking a different route from the one followed to the prayer ground when returning. The Emir’s procession, limited to his guards and close officials, followed this practice in accordance with Islamic traditions. Unlike the Durbar, which is a formal parade involving district heads and traditional horse riders symbolizing allegiance to the Emir and the Emirate, this procession was conducted with full attention to both tradition and public safety.

Durbar celebrations, as historically practiced, have not been held regularly in recent years, mainly due to concerns from security forces. The recent event was no exception. Both the Emir and the Governor acted with the intention of striking a balance between preserving cultural practices and ensuring the safety and security of the public. They did not disregard the law or public safety, rather, their actions were aimed at preventing the potential exploitation of the occasion by individuals seeking to disrupt peace and stability.

The breakdown of law and order that occurred was due to the actions of alleged, sponsored criminal elements who hijacked the occasion to create chaos. These individuals sought to tarnish the reputations of both the Emir and the Governor, possibly even attempting to blackmail them and state. We commend the Nigeria Police Force for their swift action in making arrests, which is an important step toward uncovering the full extent of the individuals and networks behind these destructive activities.

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It is also essential to address the concerns raised by the faceless NGO. While the police do not have the constitutional authority to outrightly ban traditional programs such as this, they are within their rights to call for a suspension or cancellation based on actionable intelligence aimed at maintaining public safety. Any formal ban, however, would require adherence to due legal process.

The nation is now closely watching the Nigeria Police Force, and we are hopeful that justice will be served swiftly. We trust that ongoing investigations will identify all those responsible for these disruptive actions and ensure accountability.

A.T. Abdullahi
A Concerned Kano Indigene
31st March 2025

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Periscoping Waiya’s Alleged Assault on Free Press Viz the Preponderance of Mob Reasoning

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By Al Amin Ubandoma

The recent controversy surrounding Kano State Commissioner for Information, Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya, has sparked heated debates about free press and mob reasoning. The controversy began with an opinionated article written by one Auwalu Ismail, which criticized Waiya that was widely circulated online.

The article contained allegedly malicious and defamatory statements about Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya. As a public figure, Waiya has the right to defend himself against such attacks, and his decision to report the matter to the police was a legitimate exercise of this right.

However, the response from journalists and Amnesty International was swift and merciless. Without recourse to the violation of Waiya’s rights, they condemned his actions as an assault on free press and a threat to democracy.

This mob-like response is a classic example of mob reasoning, where emotions and sensationalism override rational thinking and fairness.

The implications of this response are far-reaching. If public figures like Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya are not allowed to defend themselves against malicious attacks, it could create a culture of impunity where anyone can make false and defamatory statements without consequence.

Furthermore, the response from journalists and Amnesty International undermines the principles of fairness and justice as enshrined in journalistic ethics.

By failing to consider Waiya’s side of the story and his right to defend himself, Amnesty international, and its co-travellers perpetuated a one-sided narrative that ignored the complexities of the issue at stake.

The controversy surrounding Waiya highlights the need for fairness and balance in public discourse. While free press is essential to democracy, it is equally important to protect the rights and privileges of public figures like Ambassador Waiya.

By prioritizing fairness and justice, we can create a more equitable and just society for all. This requires a commitment to considering multiple perspectives and upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures.

The mob-like response from journalists and Amnesty International is a reminder that even in the pursuit of press freedom, we must not trample on the rights of others.

Indeed, Ambassador Waiya’s experience serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of mob reasoning and the importance of upholding fairness and justice in public discourse.

As we move forward, it is essential that we learn from Waiya’s experience and prioritize fairness and balance in public discourse. This requires a commitment to considering multiple perspectives and upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals.

The protection of human rights is essential to creating a just and equitable society. By upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures like Waiya, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

In conclusion, Ambassador Waiya’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures.

The debate surrounding Waiya’s actions is a reminder that the pursuit of press freedom is complex and multifaceted. While it is essential to protect the rights of journalists and writers, it is equally important to uphold the rights and privileges of public figures.

Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Waiya and the opinionated article highlights the need for a more nuanced and balanced approach to public discourse.

By prioritizing fairness and justice, we can create a more equitable and just society for all. This requires a commitment to considering multiple perspectives and upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals.

As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize fairness and balance in public discourse. This requires a commitment to considering multiple perspectives and upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals.

The importance of protecting the rights and privileges of public figures like Ambassador Waiya cannot be overstated.

By upholding the rights and privileges of all individuals, including public figures, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

In the end, Ambassador Waiya’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing fairness and balance in public discourse, and it has indeed brought to fore how not to deployed mob reasoning on issues of human rights

Al Amin Ubandoma, a Public Affairs Analyst writes from Lagos.

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