Ado Sabongida Sunusi extends his warmest congratulations to his esteemed boss, Professor Salisu Shehu, on his well-deserved appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Education Research and Development Council (NERDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
As someone who has had the privilege of knowing Professor Shehu for decades, Sabongida can attest to his exceptional work ethic, kindness, and dedication to mentoring and teaching others. Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Shehu has consistently demonstrated his commitment to promoting education and development.
As the pioneer Director of the Center for Continuing Education at Bayero University Kano (BUK), Professor Shehu introduced numerous positive reforms that significantly enhanced the institute’s growth. Similarly, during his tenure as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of Al-Istiqama University Sumaila, Kano, he prioritized the development of both academic and non-teaching staff by organizing workshops, seminars, and intellectual forums that boosted their intellectual capacity, ultimately benefiting the students as well.
Sabongida commends President Tinubu for appointing Professor Shehu to this critical role, recognizing that he is the right person for the job. With his exceptional leadership skills and vast experience, Professor Shehu is poised to exceed expectations in his new position.
Once again, congratulations to Professor Salisu Shehu on this remarkable achievement.
Sincerely, Ado Sunusi Sabongida Media Aid to the VC.
— As Key Development Projects Inspected by the Commissioner of Works and Housing
The Honourable Commissioner for Works and Housing, Engr. Marwa Ahmad, has concluded the fourth day of an intensive supervision tour to assess the progress of critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving Kano State’s socio-economic landscape.
During the inspection, Engr. Ahmad evaluated several significant projects, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure to enhance the lives of Kano State residents. The projects inspected include, Doguwa 5km Road – This road, once completed, will significantly improve access and connectivity in the Doguwa area, boosting local commerce and transportation, Kura 5km Road – A strategic development aimed at facilitating mobility and fostering economic growth in Kura town, Kura to Kubarachi Road – A critical link connecting kura and madobi communities, designed to enhance rural-urban integration and support agricultural trade, Bagauda Fisheries Institute – A key institution poised to advance fisheries education and research, contributing to food security and employment generation and Sports Institute, Karfi – A hub for nurturing young sports talent in Kano State, providing facilities that align with global standards for athletic training and development
During his tour, the Commissioner expressed his satisfaction with the progress made on the projects and commended the contractors for adhering to timelines and quality standards. Engr. Marwa Ahmad also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for his unwavering support and visionary leadership in prioritizing infrastructural development across the state.
“The vision and dedication of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, have been instrumental in driving these transformative projects. The investments in roads, education, and sports infrastructure reflect the administration’s commitment to fostering inclusive development for the benefit of all Kano citizens,” Engr. Ahmad stated.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to ensure the timely completion of all ongoing projects without compromising quality. He further called on the contractors and stakeholders to sustain the momentum to meet the expectations of the people of Kano State.
Sa’adatu Suleiman is the Public Relations Officer Ministry of Works and Housing
Day 3 of Commissioner’s Visit to Ongoing Projects Across the State
In line with its unwavering commitment to improving infrastructure and housing across Kano State, the Honorable Commissioner for Works and Housing, Engineer Marwan Ahmad, continued his inspection tour of ongoing projects under the supervision of the Ministry of Works and Housing on the third day of his official site visits.
The inspection exercise, which began earlier this week, has been a crucial platform for assessing the progress, quality, and impact of various government projects aimed at enhancing the lives of Kano residents. Day three of the tour focused on key sites, including roads, bridges, and housing projects spread across multiple local government areas of the state.
During the visits, Engineer Marwan Ahmad, accompanied by senior ministry officials, project contractors, and community representatives, expressed satisfaction with the progress on several projects while emphasizing the need for timely completion without compromising quality. The commissioner also used the opportunity to engage with contractors and stakeholders, reiterating the state government’s dedication to ensuring accountability and efficient service delivery.
Project inspected includes, Renovations of classroom at Kano state school of Technology, General renovation of Gidan Murtala, General renovation of Government Printing Press, Dan Agundi interchange, Fencing of Sagagi Graveyard, Construction of Kofar Waika/Dabai Road, BUK Pedestrian Bridge, Fencing of Rijiyar Zaki graveyard, .Dorayi/Kuntau Road, Madobi Underpass junction to Panshekara.
Other projects inspected by the Commissioner are, Kumbotso 5Km Road, Electrification of Kwankwasiyya and Amana Cities, Unguwa uku to Yan awaki road As well as Islamiyya school at madugu link giginyu
Engineer Marwan Ahmad commended His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, for his visionary leadership and unwavering support in driving infrastructure development across the state. He also lauded the cooperation of the public and the dedication of the ministry’s staff in ensuring the successful implementation of these projects.
” We will remains steadfast in our mission to deliver world-class infrastructure and housing projects that will transform Kano State into a hub of economic prosperity and social well-being”. Engr. Marwan Ahmad
Sa’adatu Suleiman is the Public Relations Office Kano State Ministry of Works and Housing
Village and Ward Heads in Dala local government area have been urged to give their maximum cooperation and support to Government policies and programmes for the welfare of the citizenry.
The Council Chairman, Alhaji Surajo Ibrahim Imam made the call while receiving a delegation of village and ward heads in his office led by representative of Wakilin Fuskar Arewa, Alhaji Faruk Ahmad Yola.
He emphasized that the responsibility of the welfare of the people rests on the leaders.
Alhaji Surajo Imam further disclosed plans by the local Administration to revive health sector through retainership programs aimed at assisting the less privileged.
This initiative according to him requires the cooperation of ward heads to confirm the indigene ship of the beneficiaries so that only genuine residents of Dala will benefit from the program.
Alhaji Surajo who acknowledged the significant role of ward heads in community harmony assured them of his administrations commitment to address their complaints.
On his part, the leader of the delegation the Wakili of Fuskar Arewa, Alhaji Faruk Ahmad Yola, said the visit was to congratulate the Chairman and other council members on their assumption of office.
Hassana Aminu is The Information Officer, Dala Local Government
Politics is a complex game of competing values, interests, and ambitions. Elected officials and governments have a responsibility to protect the values of their constituents, including religious, traditional, cultural, and family values, as well as environmental concerns. In politics from the post of elected president and elected councillor are all servants of the people.
Moreover, governments must prioritize the interests of their people, focusing on economic growth and development, food and want security, education, healthcare, human rights, equal opportunities, and women’s rights. Every nation or society must also have an ambition to develop, driving infrastructural growth, economic interests, energy supply, higher education, and transportation systems – the backbone of economic interplay.
This is the essence of political democracy, where representatives of the people are elected to be their voice and ambassadors within the corridors of power. In a constitutional democracy, these representatives are expected to speak on behalf of the people, upholding their values, interests, and ambitions.
In the context of Nigeria’s tax reform, President Bola Tinubu’s administration must balance competing values, interests, and ambitions. The proposed tax reform aims to promote economic growth, reduce inequality, and increase government revenue. However, it is crucial to ensure that the reform prioritizes the needs and interests of all Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable populations.
Ultimately, the success of Nigeria’s tax reform depends on the government’s ability to navigate the complex game of politics, balancing competing values, interests, and ambitions while prioritizing the needs and interests of all Nigerians.
Kudos to His Excellency the President of Nigeria Senator Bola Tunubu for his willingness to listen to the complain of Nigerians on the issue of tax reform. For many years there’s no much contrivances in Nigeria like the current situation of tax reform especially from the Northern part of Nigeria whereby the elites and stakeholders in the region criticized the tax reform bill for the fact that will bastardize the economy of region.
President Bola Tinubu’s directive to the Ministry of Justice to collaborate with the National Assembly and identify areas of complaint regarding the proposed tax reform in Nigeria marks a significant step towards addressing the country’s fiscal challenges.
The proposed tax reform aims to reshape Nigeria’s fiscal framework and establish a comprehensive legal framework governing taxation of incomes, transactions, and instruments.
The tax reform proposal has sparked controversy, with governors and traditional rulers of Northern Nigerian states rejecting the bill, citing that it does not align with the interests of the North and other sub-national entities. Despite this, the administration remains optimistic about the reform’s potential to transform Nigeria’s tax landscape and achieve a minimum of 18% tax-to-GDP ratio within the next three years.
*Key provisions of the proposed tax reform include:
Increment in VAT: Raising the value-added tax (VAT) from 7.5% to 10% by 2025, with further increases to 12.5% from 2026 to 2029, and 15% from 2030 onwards. In the opinion of this writing this will create more inflation or even stagflation especially in the Northern Region of the Country whereby the system of “Family Welfarism System” Exists for Centuries.
27.5% Company Tax:
Imposing a tax rate of 27.5% on companies, with small firms taxed at 0%. Another point that can lead to inflationary problems for the fact that companies that producing products will automatically increase the prices of their goods.
4% Development Levy on Companies: Introducing a development levy on companies, excluding small and non-resident companies, to fund the Student Education Loan Fund. In reality and practice can this be practicable? Sincerely, in capitalist market system the target of every company is profit; can they sacrifice 4% for students education loan fund? In the opinion of this writing it will be very much difficult in practicalities of this.
5% Excise Tax on Lottery and Gaming Income:
Imposing a 5% excise duty on revenue from lottery and gaming trades or businesses. This acceptable, indeed.
The proposed tax reform also aims to digitize revenue collection, streamline taxes, and create a more conducive business environment.The administration’s efforts to address fiscal indiscipline, reduce the cost of governance, and promote prudent utilization of existing resources are crucial in fostering compliance and reducing the costs associated with tax collection. Excellent idea, indeed.
Ultimately, the success of the tax reform hinges on the administration’s ability to address the concerns of various stakeholders, including those who have rejected the proposal. By doing so, Nigeria can move closer to achieving a more efficient and effective tax system that supports sustainable development and economic growth.
To be continued Insha’Allah.
Dr. Abbati Bako,Political Strategy and Communication Consultant @IPRC, Nigeria, Researcher in International Politics@Skyline University, Kano and Treasurer@Kano Chamber of Commerce Email abbatibako@gmail.com Gsm 09077889959
The Kano State Ministry of Works and Housing is pleased to announce the successful inspection tour conducted by the Honorable Commissioner, Engr. Marwan Ahmad. The tour aimed to assess the progress of 15 key infrastructural projects currently underway across the state.
This initiative reflects the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the timely delivery of critical infrastructure that will significantly improve the lives of Kano State
The projects inspected include various road construction strategically designed to enhance connectivity and alleviate transportation challenges within the state. The key projects inspected includes eleven 5 Kilo Meter Roads located at Local Governments, Yargaya Isolation Center, Rijiyar Gwangwan Islamiya/Masji. Ministry of Internal Security Building and Neighborhood Vigilante Headquarters, Hotoro.
During the inspection, the Honorable Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the quality of work completed thus far and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to providing world-class infrastructure that addresses the needs of Kano’s growing population.
“Our administration is committed to ensuring that every project we initiate is completed on schedule and meets the highest standards of quality. These roads are not just pathways but vital lifelines for businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and the daily lives of our people,” said Engr. Marwan Ahmad.
The Commissioner also engaged with stakeholders and contractors on-site, emphasizing the importance of adhering to project timelines while minimizing disruptions to local communities during construction.
This inspection highlights the Ministry’s proactive approach to monitoring projects and ensuring that public funds are effectively utilized. The inspected projects are expected to:
Enhance economic activities by improving connections between urban and rural areas.
Reduce travel time and transportation costs for residents.
Improve access to essential services, including healthcare, education, and markets.
The Kano State Ministry of Works and Housing extends its gratitude to the citizens for their continued support of these developmental efforts. The Ministry remains steadfast in its mandate to provide sustainable infrastructure that drives socio-economic growth.
Sa’adatu Suleiman is the Public Relations officer Kano State Ministry of Works and Housing
Senator Ruf’a’i Sani Hanga, representing Kano Central Senatorial District, has generously donated a block of classrooms, Toilets to GSS Gora and renovates Gara Primary Healthcare in Madobi local Government area.
The donation was received by the Chairman of the Council Hon Suleiman Dan Azumi alongside the Commissioner of Education Dr Umar Haruna Doguwa.
The Hounarable Commissioner who was represented by Director Partnership from KSSSMB Hon Nura Abba Dandago said this philanthropic gesture by Senator Hanga demonstrates his commitment to supporting education and improving the learning environment for students in his senatorial district.
Added that the new classrooms and toilets will provide a conducive space for students to learn and grow, ultimately contributing to the development of the state at large.
Earlier, the council chairman of the area Hon Suleiman Dan Azumi requested Kano Central Senator to provides more Science laboratories to secondary schools in the area for the benefit of the science Students.
Dan Azumi also emphasized the importance of private sector participation in supporting education and encouraged other well-meaning individuals to emulate Senator Hanga’s example.
Responding , Senator representing Kano Central senator Rufa’i Sani Hanga represented by his Director Campaign Alhaji Shehu Tijjani Usman said this donation is not Senator Hanga’s first philanthropic effort.
He has previously donated materials to his constituents, including 5,000 pieces of white fabric and clay pots His continued support for education and community development is a testament to his dedication to the well-being of his constituents.
Alhaji Tijjani Shehu further maintained that , the distinguish Senator will soon Flag off mass empowerment programs across his constituents.
In their Separates remarks, the NNPP Cocus chairman Hon Habib Hassan EL-Yakub and Hounarable Sunusi Surajo Kwankwaso expressed their gratitudes to Senator Hanga for his kindness and generosity.
Ward elected Councilors, Supervisory Councilors, prominent politicians, Education Secretary, Primary Healthcare Coordinator, Students, Village head of Gora, Malam Murtala Musa Gora were among the dignitaries that attend the occasion.
Signed Information Officer Madobi Local Government Auwalu Musa Yola 3/12/2024.
The Chairman of Dambatta Local Government, Alhaji Jamilu Abubakar Dambatta, has donated a sum of 500,000 Naira to Kofar Yamma Islamic School as part of efforts to enhance Quranic recitation and Islamic education in the area. The donation underscores the Chairman’s commitment to promoting education and moral development within the community.
The funds were presented on behalf of the Chairman by Alhaji Nura Shehu Land Offer, accompanied by the Supervisory Councilor for Religious Affairs, Alhaji Malam Kamalu Abubakar.
Speaking during the presentation, Malam Kamalu highlighted the Chairman’s dedication to education, recalling his inaugural promise to prioritize educational development in the local government.
In his remarks one of the School Representative , Malam Musa Dambatta, on behalf of the headmaster, expressed gratitude for the support. He assured that the funds would be utilized judiciously to expand the school’s Islamic programs and acquire teaching aids, further boosting students’ morale and educational outcomes.
The event concluded with prayers for peace and progress in the country and Dambatta Local Government.
Munzali Muhd Hausawa is the Zonal information officer Dambatta Zone
The ongoing polio immunization exercise in Kura Local Government Area has entered its fourth day, with efforts to ensure the complete immunization of children under the age of five across the area
The campaign targets all children in the local government to ensure no child left behind until he receive the vaccination
On his part the primary healthcare coordinator of the area Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Bagwai commended the effort of All the health personell,calling them to maintain their tempo in discharging their duties
Sani Bagwai also reiterated his determination to ensure each And every child under five raceive OBR and routine immunisation in order to tackle the menece of the diseases
On his remarks the Distric head of the area Alhaji Bello Ado Bayero represented by his wakili Asked village And ward heads to continue mobilizing their subject About the importance of the vaccine
He therfore commended the Local Government council for their meaningfull support in Actualizing the exercise
The meeting was Attended by All members of task force committee on polio immunisation
Jamilu Mustapha Yakasai is the Information officer Madobi Local Government
In a democratic system, the government is accountable to its citizens. As Sir David Easton, a renowned political scientist, defines democracy: “A democratic government is one in which the decision-makers are accountable to the general population and are chosen through competitive elections.” (Easton, 1953) This definition highlights the importance of accountability, representation, and the protection of citizens’ rights in a democratic government. Furthermore, democracy involves “the authoritative allocation of values for the whole society,” (Easton, 1953) emphasizing the government’s role in making decisions that reflect the values and interests of all its citizens.
The removal of the petroleum subsidy has undoubtedly had a profound impact on the lives of Nigerians, making it increasingly challenging for many to afford basic necessities like food, drugs, and shelter. This experience has created a sense of unease and skepticism towards any new reforms that the government may introduce, particularly with regards to tax reforms. Consequently, it is imperative that the government prioritizes transparency, accountability, and effective communication to rebuild trust and confidence among the citizenry.
The price of petrol in Nigeria has fluctuated significantly over the years. For instance, in 1999, the price of petrol was around ₦20 per liter, while in December 2024, it has skyrocketed to ₦1,150 per liter. This significant increase has had a devastating impact on the lives of many Nigerians, particularly those in low-income households.
To rebuild trust and confidence, the government needs to prioritize making life better for Nigerians. Implementing policies that make food more affordable and accessible to alleviate the burden on vulnerable households. Furthermore, the government should ensure that its economic policies are inclusive, equitable, and sustainable. While the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy and promote growth are commendable, it is essential to ensure that these reforms benefit the most vulnerable populations.
To address the current situation, the government can consider implementing several key measures. Firstly, improving exchange rate management can reduce distortions in allocations in the private and public sectors by increasing transparency and predictability in exchange rate management policies. Secondly, enhancing social protection programs can provide critical support to vulnerable households, helping to mitigate the impact of economic shocks. Leveraging programs like the National Social Safety Nets Program (NASSP) can provide transfers to additional households and temporarily increase transfers to current beneficiaries. Finally, promoting fiscal sustainability can help mobilize domestic non-oil revenue, reducing reliance on oil exports.
As citizens, it is essential that we hold our elected officials accountable and demand transparency and representation that serves the people. This can be achieved by promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance in Nigeria. Effective public institutions are essential for national development, and accountability and transparency are crucial ingredients for developing these institutions.
The role of our Senators and Members of the House of Representatives in a democratic system is indeed crucial in protecting the interests of their constituents and ensuring that the government is accountable to the people. Legislators must understand the needs and concerns of their constituents and represent their interests in the lawmaking process. This requires legislators to be in touch with the people they serve and to be responsive to their needs. They should engage in rigorous debate, analysis, and negotiation to ensure that the laws they pass are in the best interests of their constituents.
In addition to these responsibilities, legislators must also carefully consider the pros and cons of reforms to make informed decisions that benefit their constituents. This involves promoting good governance, accountability, and transparency in government. By fulfilling these responsibilities, legislators can promote good governance, accountability, and transparency in government.
Furthermore, the government can explore alternative sources of revenue, such as increasing taxes on luxury goods and services, to reduce the burden on low-income households. Additionally, investing in human capital development, such as education and healthcare, can help improve the productivity and competitiveness of the Nigerian workforce.
In conclusion, rebuilding trust and promoting economic recovery in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach. The government must prioritize making life better for Nigerians, implement policies that promote fiscal sustainability, and ensure that elected officials are held accountable for their actions. By doing so, Nigeria can promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve the overall well-being of its citizens.
Dr. Sagir S Buhari FCIA (Studied Political Science and International Relations) buharisageer@gmail.com 3rd December, 2024
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