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Kano stand still as VP, govs, ministers storm emir’s coronation

Published

5 years ago

July 4, 2021

Confusion as Gambari reads Buhari’s message

The ancient city of Kano on Saturday stood still as the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, formally received his staff of office from the state governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, 15 months after his appointment.

The event which witnessed several dignitaries including Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, was held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, the same location the father of the Emir, late Ado Bayero, received his staff of office from the then northern government some 58 years ago.

His predecessor, Muhammadu Sanusi, who was deposed last year by the state governor, had his coronation inside the Coronation Hall of Government House.

The delegation of the FG comprised ministers of Defense, Major General Bashir Magashi (Rtd), Agriculture and Rural Development, Sabo Nanono, Water Resources, Engineer Sulaiman Adamu, Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika as well as the Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media and Publicity), Garba Shehu and Yusuf Buhari, the President’s son.

The Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, as well as governors of Jigawa (Badaru Abubakar), Kogi (Yahaya Bello), Lagos (Babajide Sanwo-Olu), Katsina (Aminu Masari), Zamfara (Bello Matawalle),

Bauchi (Bala Mohammed), Sokoto (Aminu Tambuwal) and the former governors of Zamfara (Abdulaziz Yari) Jigawa (Sule Lamido) Kano (Ibrahim Shakarau) were among the dignitaries at the occasion.

Others are the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar; the Ọọni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe; and Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare as well as representative of the President of Niger Republic, members of the diplomatic corps and captains of industries, including Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who also witnessed the coronation of late Emir Ado Bayero

As early as 6am, well-wishers and spectators from the states and neighbouring states stormed the venue for the coronation ceremony while several others lined up on the street to receive the dignitaries.

The stadium gradually became adorned with hundreds of horses beautifully decorated with colourful horse attires. The venue was flooded with heavy security presence as not less than 4,000 security personnel was said to be deployed to provide security during the historic event.

After being adorned with the legendary Ibrahim Dabo’s hat, bow and arrow as well as the traditional regalia of Dabo from the Madakin Kano, the Emir was administered the oath of office by the Chief Imam of Kano, Professor Muhammad Sani Zahraddeen.

After his coronation by the executive governor of Kano, the emir gave his speech in which he said that his being the Emir of Kano doesn’t mean he is better than others but it is the will of Allah.

“I inherited my forefathers, not because I am better than others, this is the will of Allah,” he said.

The emir also called on people in various positions to remember that they will be accountable before God. He also pledged to protect the rights of his subject to the best of his ability as the Emir of Kano.

Osinbajo thrills audience in Hausa

Speaking at the event, Osinbajo, who represented President Muhammadu Buhari eulogised the Emir, Kano city, the emirate and the late Emir Ado Bayero.

“This city of Kano is no ordinary city in both historical and modern times, Kano has always been revered as the major commercial and economic centre in Africa and the melting pot of diverse tribes and culture,” he said.

He added that it is only with the tolerant culture of the city that opposite ideas can co-exist peacefully “that you could have a thriving, free-market economy with several millionaires and yet also be the base for the radical left-centre of the political idea. This is, after all, the city of the socialist man of the masses, Malam Aminu Kano and is also the home of the capitalist richest man in Africa, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.”

Speaking in Hausa to the cheering of the crowd, the VP reiterated the popular saying of the people of Kano that “Kano ko da mai ka so, an fi ka”, which loosely translate as with whenever you arrive in Kano, the city or its people will surpass you.

“We are all proud of this city, proud of its legacy of tolerance and warmth and that it remains a home for all Nigerians,” he added.

To the emir, the VP said he must recognise that the privilege of emirship “comes with the obligation of preserving the rich tradition of a brotherhood of all tribes and tongues.

“You did not only inherit one of the most revered thrones in Africa but on a more personal level, your late father was known for his wisdom, courage and integrity. He loved his people and served them with honour and complete commitment, you have a good inheritance and a difficult task to accomplish. But we are confident that by the grace of God you will accomplish the task.”

Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, described the emir as a man of the people, which he said explained “the reason for exceptional jubilation in Kano by thousands of well-wishers after his appointment as the new Emir of Kano. The new Emir is among the few princes who are down to earth and freely intermingle with ordinary people.”

He said his administration “holds the traditional institution in high esteem”, and therefore charged the Emir to make good use of his position to promote peace and unity in his domain and the state at large

He also charged the Emir to “distance himself from anything capable of tarnishing your revered position. I advise that you remain the father of all Kano people and not allow yourself to be used by self-centred persons.”

Meanwhile, there was confusion during the event when the Master of Ceremony (MC) invited Ibrahim Gambari, the Chief of Staff to the President, who is also an uncle to the emir and who led the FG delegation to deliver his goodwill message, but instead announced that he was reading the goodwill message of the President.

The MC, the emir and the state governor had all referred to the VP as the representative of the President, a position also confirmed by the VP when it was his turn to address the gathering.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday in Kano advised the new Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, to emulate his late father.

President Buhari gave the advice in a letter he sent to the Emir at his coronation ceremony read and presented by the Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, who is also an uncle to the new Emir.

The President, who extolled the virtues of Alhaji Ado Bayero, the late Emir of Kano, described him as a man of remarkable culture and principles, who staked his own life at several junctures in the defense of his people.

The president shared some memories and anecdotes of his interactions with the late Emir whom he said was his friend.

“I remember with nostalgia, the passion and commitment he always exhibited in pursuit of any cause he believed in, a distinctive character that almost cost him his life prematurely on January 19th, 2013 because of his vociferous stand against Boko Haram terrorists,” said the President.

The President, who expressed his belief in Aminu Ado Bayero, said: “I have confidence that you would exhibit such leadership qualities and much more as you have demonstrated in the few months of your Emirship.”

President Buhari, in the letter delivered by the special delegation, said: “deep and wholehearted congratulations to you for your ascension to the throne of your forefathers as the 15th Fulani Emir of Kano from Sullubawa Clan.”

He added that “your turbaning is providential because it is happening at a time in the history of our country when prevailing social and political conditions resonate with the ascension to the throne of my friend, your late father, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero. May his soul Rest In Peace.”

President, who prayed for the success of the Emir, said he looked forward to his contributions to uplifting the people of Kano Emirate in particular and the nation in general while assuring him of his support towards leaving a sustainable legacy.

News

Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms

Published

1 hour ago

April 14, 2026

Trends Admin

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has entered a new phase of economic transformation, insisting that the country will no longer operate a “broken, inefficient and unfair revenue system” as his administration intensifies fiscal and tax reforms.

Tinubu made the remarks in Abuja during the commissioning of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters, where he reaffirmed that ongoing reforms are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s tax system, improving revenue generation, and restoring public confidence in governance.

He described the reforms as a “covenant with Nigerians,” stressing that they are not political rhetoric but a deliberate effort to rebuild the country’s economic foundations and ensure long-term stability.

According to him, Nigeria is gradually transitioning “from uncertainty to renewed hope” through structural reforms designed to improve efficiency, fairness, and transparency in revenue administration.

The President emphasized that no country can achieve sustainable development with a weak fiscal structure, adding that his administration deliberately embarked on overhauling the system to eliminate leakages, improve compliance, and ensure that national revenue is effectively deployed for development.

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“No nation achieves lasting prosperity on a weak and fragmented revenue system,” Tinubu said, adding that government must earn public trust through a fair and transparent tax structure.

He noted that the reforms are focused on simplifying tax processes, reducing distortions, and creating a more investment-friendly environment that encourages both local and foreign investors.

Tinubu also highlighted early signs of progress, pointing to improvements in fiscal stability, stronger reserves, and increased investor confidence as indicators that the reforms are beginning to yield results.

He attributed these gains to what he called “deliberate policy choices and national discipline,” insisting that the government remains committed to long-term structural changes rather than short-term economic fixes.

The President described the newly commissioned NRS headquarters as a symbol of institutional renewal and administrative efficiency, noting that it represents more than just a physical structure.

“This building is more than concrete and steel. It is a symbol of professionalism, transparency, efficiency and service delivery,” he said.

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Tinubu also tasked the Nigerian Revenue Service with evolving beyond revenue collection into a trust-building institution that reflects accountability and fairness in its operations. He stressed that taxpayers must see clear value for their contributions through improved public services and national development.

“The Nigerian Revenue Service must not only collect revenue, it must build trust,” he said, adding that institutions must demonstrate integrity and responsiveness to citizens.

He further acknowledged the challenges associated with economic reforms, noting that while such policies may cause short-term hardship, they are necessary for long-term prosperity and national stability.

Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of ongoing reforms, saying sustainable development requires shared sacrifice and collective commitment.

The President also reiterated that Nigeria’s future depends on deliberate policy choices and strong institutions capable of driving inclusive growth and global competitiveness.

“We have chosen reform, we have chosen discipline, we have chosen progress,” he said. “We will stay the course until the promise of Nigeria is matched by the performance of its institutions.”

The commissioning of the NRS headquarters marks a key milestone in the federal government’s broader economic reforms in Nigeria, particularly in tax administration and public finance management, as authorities push to diversify revenue sources beyond oil dependence.

Tinubu Declares End to “Broken Revenue System”, Unveils New Economic Reforms

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JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres

Published

1 hour ago

April 14, 2026

Trends Admin

JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres

The Nigeria Police Force has ramped up security preparations ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), dismissing circulating reports of threats to candidates as false while deploying personnel and rapid response teams across the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the police were aware of “recent unfounded rumours” concerning the safety of examination centres, particularly in parts of the North-Central region. He stressed that the claims lack credibility and should be disregarded by the public.

According to the police, there is no verified intelligence pointing to planned attacks on UTME centres. However, the Force noted that concerns raised by Nigerians—especially regarding the safety of candidates—have been taken seriously, prompting proactive measures to ensure a secure environment nationwide.

To guarantee security at UTME centres, the police confirmed the deployment of both overt and covert personnel, including rapid response teams, patrol units, and surveillance operatives positioned strategically across examination venues. These efforts are aimed at preventing disruptions and ensuring a smooth conduct of the examination.

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The UTME, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is scheduled to commence on April 16, 2026. As one of the most critical examinations in Nigeria, the JAMB 2026 UTME will see hundreds of thousands of candidates sit for entry into tertiary institutions nationwide.

The police further disclosed ongoing collaboration with other security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and response coordination. Authorities warned that any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process would be identified and dealt with decisively.

Candidates and parents were reassured of adequate security during JAMB exams, with advice for candidates to arrive early at their centres, comply with all examination regulations, and promptly report any suspicious activity to security personnel.

The Force also cautioned against spreading misinformation, emphasizing that fake security alerts could create panic and undermine public confidence. Nigerians were urged to rely solely on verified updates from the police and JAMB.

Reaffirming its commitment, the Nigeria Police stated that safeguarding lives, property, and national activities remains a top priority, assuring the public of a peaceful and orderly examination process across the country.

JAMB 2026: Police Dismiss Threat Rumours, Deploy Nationwide Security for UTME Centres

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Akpabio: Insecurity in Nigeria Will End Two Weeks After Elections

Published

2 hours ago

April 14, 2026

Trends Admin

Senate President Godswill Akpabio

Akpabio: Insecurity in Nigeria Will End Two Weeks After Elections

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has attributed Nigeria’s rising insecurity to political activities ahead of upcoming elections, expressing confidence that the situation will subside shortly after the polls. Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja at the commissioning of the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) Corporate Headquarters, Akpabio said the surge in violence is being driven by individuals allegedly sponsoring unrest due to desperation linked to the electoral process.

According to him, Nigeria insecurity, election violence, and political unrest are interconnected, stressing that the trend will reverse once elections are concluded. He stated that within two weeks after the elections, insecurity across the country would significantly reduce, insisting that those behind the acts are politically motivated. His comments come amid growing concerns over banditry in Nigeria, terrorism, and kidnappings, which continue to affect several regions.

Akpabio also strongly defended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the government is making progress despite criticism. He argued that opponents of the administration, unable to counter its performance, are resorting to sponsoring instability. The Senate President urged Nigerians to remain patient, noting that ongoing reforms under the current government would yield positive results.

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Taking a swipe at the opposition, Akpabio suggested that it is fragmented and lacks direction. In an apparent reference to Peter Obi, he criticised what he described as political inconsistency, claiming that opposition figures are abandoning their platforms while blaming the ruling party for the country’s challenges.

The Senate President also used the occasion to commend the Executive Chairman of the NRS, Zacch Adedeji, describing him as a tax administrator widely accepted by Nigerians. He noted that unlike traditional perceptions of tax officials, Adedeji has earned public trust and is driving reforms in the country’s revenue system.

The high-profile event was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Several governors were also present, including Babagana Zulum, Charles Soludo, Caleb Mutfwang, Hope Uzodimma, and Usman Ododo.

The newly commissioned Nigerian Revenue Service headquarters is described as a world-class facility designed to enhance tax administration in Nigeria and boost revenue generation. The complex features three towers spanning 16 floors, with capacity to accommodate about 3,000 personnel. The development follows the signing of the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act in June 2025 by President Tinubu, transforming the former FIRS into the NRS as part of broader economic reforms in Nigeria.

Akpabio’s remarks have sparked debate among analysts and stakeholders, with many questioning the claim that insecurity is largely politically sponsored. While the Senate President maintains that the end of elections will bring relief, experts argue that addressing Nigeria security challenges requires deeper structural reforms beyond the political cycle.