By Ismail Yahya
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced the restoration in a series of tweets on his X handle (formerly Twitter) on Thursday evening.
“I am delighted to announce the successful restoration of the national electricity transmission grid, thanks to the diligent efforts of our skilled engineers,” Adelabu said.
He said normal power supply has been reinstated across the affected areas.
“We will maintain our round-the-clock efforts to address the root causes of the disruption and proactively resolve underlying issues, ensuring the smooth operation of the electricity grid.
“We understand the inconveniences caused by the recent power outage and sincerely apologize for any disruptions you may have encountered during this period.
“Your patience and understanding have been greatly appreciated during the restoration process,” he said.
The Minister said the current state, strength, and capacity of the national grid may not be at the desired level, ongoing projects are actively working to improve, strengthen, and expand the grid infrastructure.
“New initiatives are also in progress. We are dedicated to taking all necessary measures to ensure grid stability and reliability, closely monitoring the situation to prevent future disruptions.
“Our commitment to delivering an enhanced power supply in the country remains unwavering. Thank you for your support,” the minister said.
Recall that the national grid system collapsed on Thursday morning throwing the whole country into total darkness.
The system is operated by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) from Osogbo, Osun State.
The federal government said the collapse of the grid was caused by a fire outbreak on Kainji/Jebba 330kV line, leading to about 356.63MW generation loss.
The latest collapse is coming weeks after the TCN announced that the country’s power grid had maintained uninterrupted stability for over 400 consecutive days.
The TCN had in August said the Nigerian power grid has recorded an unparalleled period of stability in the history of the power sector, operating without any major disruptions or systems collapse for a span of 400 consecutive days.
“This milestone signifies a remarkable advancement in the nation’s efforts at strengthening its power infrastructure and ensuring a reliable and dependable electricity supply to distribution load centres for onward distribution to electricity customers nationwide,” the company said in a statement.
PERSISTENT BLACKOUT AT HASSAN USMAN KATSINA POLYTECHNIC SPARKS STUDENT CONCERNS
By Aminu Ahmad Saidu
Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic has been shrouded in darkness since Wednesday night, leaving students like deeply troubled by the ongoing power outage.
The blackout, which began on Wednesday night, persisted even after the National Grid initially collapsed but later stabilized. Students at HUK Poly have been grappling with the absence of electricity, forcing them to seek alternative means to charge their electronic devices.
Dahiru Ahmad Kamal, a concerned student, expressed his frustration, saying, “We’ve been without power for days now, and it’s affecting our studies and daily routines. We rely on electricity for our coursework and communication.”
Hauwa’u Abubakar echoed similar concerns, stating, “With no power in the Polytechnic, many students have had to venture into Katsina City, Batagarawa Town, and even Federal College of Education, Katsina, just to charge their devices. It’s not only inconvenient but also poses safety risks.”
Despite the recent stabilization of the National Grid, the situation at HUK Poly remains bleak, leaving students in the dark, both figuratively and literally. The lack of electricity has not only disrupted academic activities but also raised questions about the institution’s preparedness to handle such situations.
Authorities at Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic have not yet issued an official statement regarding the blackout or outlined any plans for its resolution. Students and the local community anxiously await updates on when normalcy will be restored to the campus.
As the outage continues to impact the daily lives of students, the community, and the institution itself, there is growing pressure on HUK Poly’s administration to address the situation promptly and provide necessary solutions to prevent such incidents in the future.
NLC DEPLORES VIOLENCE OUTBREAK AT NURTW SECRETARIAT AMID LEADERSHIP TUSSLE
By Hauwa’u Abubakar
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed lamentation and regrettable over the outbreak of violence at the National Secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
The Union, in a statement signed by the Acting President, Comrade Kabir Ado Minjibir said the unfortunate event resulted in loss of life, injuries, and extensive property damage.
“In August, we raised alarm regarding the actions of the Police targeting the legitimate leadership of the Union, and the hidden motives behind wresting control for the benefit of a select few who invoked the name of the President of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We imnplored the Police leadership to reassess their actions and align them with the legal framework and international standards that govern industrial relations.
The Union regrettably said instead of heeding its plea, the Police extended their support in the unlawful occupation of the Union’s national headquarters, in stark violation of established legal and industrial relations norms.
The Acting President of the NLC stated that the democratically elected leadership of the Union was forcibly ousted while the area was cordoned off by the Police.
“We emphasized the peril this illegality posed to peace and its adverse implications for our democratic traditions.”
“Recognizing its gravity, the issue was prominently featured in the agenda of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Congress on August 31st. NEC members unanimously condemned the Police’s actions, which became our second reason leading to the successful nationwide 2-Day Warning Strike on the 5th and 6th of this month.”
He maintained that despite forewarnings, the Police persisted in their unlawful intervention, providing cover for those imposing themselves on the Union.
“We engaged in discussions with the Police leadership, reaching an understanding on a roadmap towards peace to safeguard lives and property.
“It is disheartening that our concerns were not heeded and the roadmap unimplemented.
He emphasized that, had its advice been heeded, the tragic incident could have been averted, stressing that lives could have been spared, properties safeguarded, and injuries avoided.
“We are left bewildered as to how such an incident could occur under Police presence, unless there are undisclosed motives.”
“The NLC is also alarmed by the Police’s handling of the matter. Our investigations suggest undue favouritism by the State in enforcing peace.
“We are perturbed to learn that the democratically elected leaders of the Union are being detained while the other parties have been discreetly released.
The Acting President of the NLC maintained that Justice demands equal treatment in conflicts of this nature.
According to him, “we urgently call upon the Police authorities to promptly release the democratically elected Union leaders from detention and conduct a fair investigation into the violence.
He added that “Our nation cannot afford to entertain any semblance of impunity or bias, especially at this critical juncture.
He further stated that “Let us refrain from exacerbating an already precarious situation with actions that may be construed as partiality towards illegality.”
He noted that the NLC holds the State and the Police accountable for their inaction and unwarranted interference in the internal affairs of the Union.
He explained that “Established statutory avenues for resolution exist and should have been followed, but it appears that authorities are disinclined to adhere to them.”
He further explained that disregarding democratic rights and practices inevitably leads to such regrettable incidents, which could have been avoided through steadfast adherence to democratic principles.
The Union additionally implored the Police to veer away from the unsustainable course and adhere to the previously agreed roadmap to prevent further escalation of the crisis, “In these critical times, those entrusted with public confidence must exercise prudence, and those responsible for upholding our laws must refrain from being perceived as spearheading an assault against them.” He revealed.
HUK POLY: MASS COMMUNICATION STUDENTS SHOWCASE TALENT IN REHEARSAL FOR “TALES OF A STUDENT” FILM
By Aminu Ahmad Saidu
The Mass Communication students at Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic showcased their budding filmmaking talent in a rehearsal for their upcoming film, “Tales of a Student,” which promises to be an exciting addition to their academic journey.
The film, produced by Destiny Joseph and directed by Aminu Ahmad Saidu, took center stage during the rehearsal on Thursday. It serves as an integral part of their course, “Film Production Techniques,” aimed at enhancing their technical experience and storytelling skills.
Film Director Aminu Ahmad Saidu expressed his enthusiasm for bringing this project to life, noting that it contains an impressive story written by Destiny Joseph. He commended the dedication and talent displayed during the rehearsal, setting a promising tone for the film’s production.
“The rehearsal was a success, and I’m thrilled with the commitment and passion shown by our team. We believe ‘Tales of a Student’ will not only be a learning experience but also an engaging story for our audience,” Saidu remarked.
However, Mal. Ibrahim Muhammad, the course lecturer, also shared his thoughts on the rehearsal, highlighting the outstanding performance of the students. He particularly praised the Clapper Board Operator, Ibrahim Shuaibu, for his precision, the Set Photographer, Innocent Lilian Chidera, for her creative eye, and the entire team of Camera Operators, Actors, and Crew members for their dedication.
The Mass Communication students’ dedication to their craft and the promising prospects of “Tales of a Student” exemplify their commitment to mastering the art of film production. As they continue to refine their skills, the Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic community eagerly anticipates the final product that will undoubtedly reflect their creative prowess.
STALLION TIMES EMPOWERS 40 KANO JOURNALISTS WITH MEDIA STANDARD TRAINING, EMPHASIZING GENDER AND SOCIAL INCLUSION
By Hauwa’u Abubakar
The Stallion Times Editor-in-Chief, and Project Coordinator of G-DRIP, Mr Isyaku Ahmed has called on the Journalists to promote anti-corruption, gender and social inclusion, transparency and accountability toward enhancing good governance.
The Editor-in-Chief, made the call, at Data Journalism and Media Standard training for 40 Journalists selected in Kano.
He said the aim of the training was to enrich the capacity of Kano Journalists to improve their investigative reports.
He further said the Training was organised by the Stallion Times, through its project, “Get Involved, Dialogue and Improve (G-DRIP)” with the support of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, (WSCIJ) and the MacArthur Foundation.
He said Data Journalists use numerical data, digital information, and online analytics to discover and write stories.
“Through the use of technology and software programs, journalists can develop and include infographics and data visualizations to develop a report’s narrative
“It is not just spreadsheets where journalists can find information worthy of the news.
“Other data acquisition methods include website scraping, filing freedom of information requests, hunting and gathering different complex data formats.”
Isah Ali Musa, a Research Scholar, at Digital Forensic Research Lab. Atlantic Council, took the media practitioners through data gathering, analysis, and visualization of data in storytelling.
He added that data journalism, which represented facts, would aid the public to get the right information that they could use to hold the government accountable.
NBA EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER KANO POLITICAL UNREST, APPLAUDS GOV. YUSUF FOR COMMISSIONER AND ADVISER DISMISSALS
By Hauwa’u Abubakar
The Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, Ungogo Branch, has expressed its deep concern and disturbed by the unwholesome happening in the political atmosphere in Kano State.
Barrister Mustapha Ibrahim Zubair, Publicity Secretary of the Branch, in a statement issued on Sunday lamented that some politicians make unguarded utterances that have the potential of plunging the State into serious political turmoil.
The Publicity Secretary said, “Just last week, video clips of peace threatening speeches delivered by Kano state Commissioner for Land Physical Planning and Special Adviser to the KNSG on Youth and Sports trened in social media wherein the former issued death threat to the Election Petition Tribunal Judges in Kano State while the latter launched an attack on the personality of the vice president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria HE Sen. Kashim Shettima.”
“The Nigerian Bar Association Ungogo Branch condemned in the strongest terms possible, the devilish act of these two political appointees. These acts are disheartening and unacceptable to Kano state polity.” The Publicity Secretary stated.
NBA Ungogo Branch, averred that such inflammatory statements would not yield any fruitful result to Kano state rather it would ignite the fire of socio political turbulence in the state.
He impressingly said the Kano State Government under the able leadership of HE Engr. Abba Kabir Yausf relieved the two political appointees with their appointments.
“The NBA Ungogo Branch wishes to express it’s profound appreciation to Kano State Government for taking prompt disciplinary actions against them.”
The Branch certainly said, by sacking these two personalities the entire people of Kano State not only the good members of the NBA Ungogo Branch must acknowledge the fact that, Kano State is committed to the protection of lives, properties and public peace in the State.
The NBA furthermore expressed solidarity to the Elections Petition Tribunal in particular and the rule of law in general.
HUK POLY: COMPREHENSIVE SECONDARY SCHOOL HELD ANNUAL GRADUATION AND PRIZE GIVING CEREMONY
By Aminu Ahmad Saidu
The Entrepreneurship Hall of Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic (HUK POLY) was filled with excitement and pride as the Comprehensive Secondary School celebrated its Annual Graduation and Prize Giving Ceremony. The event, hosted by Mal. Hassan Male from the Mass Communication Department of the Polytechnic, was a resounding success in the early morning of Saturday.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Dr. Ibrahim Mudi Kurfi, the former Rector of the Polytechnic, Members of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Director of the Directorate of Academic Planning and Publications (DAPP) Samaila Balarabe, Registrar Ishaq Alti, and the current Rector of the Polytechnic.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the graduating students, who were recognized and awarded prizes for their academic achievements and contributions to the school community. The joyous atmosphere was a testament to the hard work and dedication displayed by both students and educators throughout the academic year.
Dr. Ibrahim Mudi Kurfi, delivering an inspiring speech, praised the students for their commitment to education and encouraged them to continue pursuing excellence in their future endeavors. The presence of ASUP members underscored the unity and collaboration within the institution.
The event served as a reminder of the Polytechnic’s commitment to nurturing young talents and providing a conducive learning environment. The Comprehensive Secondary School’s Annual Graduation and Prize Giving Ceremony will undoubtedly remain a cherished tradition at HUK POLY for years to come.
MSSN HASSAN USMAN KATSINA POLYTECHNIC CHAPTER STEPS UP DURING CAMPUS BLACKOUT
By Aminu Ahmad Saidu
In a remarkable show of solidarity and support, the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic Chapter, has taken an innovative step to address the persistent blackout affecting the Polytechnic’s campus.
Faced with the ongoing power outage, the MSSN Chapter has introduced a generator-powered electricity provision system to assist students in charging their devices. This service is available both before and after every prayer, ensuring students have access to electricity crucial for their academic activities.
The executive members of MSSN have expressed their deep concerns about the impact of the blackout on students’ education and daily lives. Providing this generator-powered electricity solution is their response to the challenging situation.
Umar Dahiru, an executive member, stated, “We understand the difficulties our fellow students are facing due to the blackout. Our aim is to alleviate some of these challenges by offering a reliable source of electricity for charging devices. This will help our peers in their academic pursuits.”
The initiative has garnered praise and appreciation from students who rely on electronic devices for coursework, research, and communication. The generator-powered electricity provision is expected to ease the burden caused by the campus blackout and promote a conducive learning environment.
Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic’s administration has yet to provide an official resolution to the persistent power outage, making the MSSN Chapter’s efforts even more crucial in ensuring students’ academic progress.
As the MSSN Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic Chapter steps up to support their fellow students during this challenging time, their commitment to the betterment of the academic experience serves as an inspiring example of unity and community engagement within the institution.
By Rapheal Nnamuchi
THE by KATSINA ROAD AGENCY ISSUES A WARNING REGARDING OVERLOADING
The Katsina State Safety and Roads Traffic Authority (KASSROTA), has warned commercial road users against overloading and reckless driving.
The Director-General of KASSROTA, Major General Garba Yahaya Rimi, gave the warning in a statement on Friday and made available to newsmen by the Public Relations Officer of the agency, Malam Marwana Abubakar.
According to him, the DG gave the warning during a meeting with various unions of commercial road users across the state and also block makers in an effort to sanitise them.
Yahaya Rimi while addressing the gathering solicited the support and cooperation of their leadership and members of the unions towards achieving the desired success.
The KASSROTA boss also “called on them to caution their members against overloading and any form of reckless driving to avoid unnecessary accidents.”
He noted that the agency would no longer tolerate all forms of reckless driving by some erring drivers, therefore anyone found wanting would face the law.
The block makers were also cautioned by the KASSROTA DG to always abide by the rules and regulations and avoid doing their businesses on roads to avoid accidents.
He also advised tricycle riders to avoid overloading or underage driving among other offences.
Some of the unions in attendance are the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO),
Others include the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Tippers drivers, Motorcycle Union Associations and Tricycle Union Associations among others.
MACOSA INITIATES”#KEEPMASSCOMMCLEAN” CAMPAIGN AT HASSAN USMAN KATSINA POLYTECHNIC
By Umar Dahiru
The Mass Communication Students Association at Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, under the dynamic leadership of President Musaddiq Abdullahi and Patron Mal. Ibrahim Muhammad, has kicked off a series of impactful projects aimed at enhancing the learning environment within the department.
Starting this Monday, the association initiated their first project by organizing a mass cleanup of the Studio premises and classrooms. Armed with brooms, mops, and a shared commitment to cleanliness, students worked tirelessly to sweep, clean, and spruce up the spaces where they hone their communication skills.
The highlight of this initiative is the launch of the #KeepMassCommClean Campaign. As part of this campaign, the association is providing dust bins strategically placed throughout the Mass Communication department to encourage students and faculty to dispose of waste responsibly. This move aligns with the broader goal of fostering a culture of cleanliness and environmental consciousness within the department.
President Musaddiq Abdullahi shared his vision for the campaign, saying, “We believe that a clean and organized learning environment is crucial for academic success. Our #KeepMassCommClean Campaign aims to instill a sense of responsibility among students and ensure that our department remains a hub for learning and creativity.”
Additionally, the Mass Communication Students Association is addressing another practical need by initiating repairs of wall clocks in all Mass Communication classrooms. These clocks, often overlooked yet essential, will help students manage their time more efficiently and stay punctual for their classes and activities.
Patron Mal. Ibrahim Muhammad praised the students’ proactive approach to improving their learning environment, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and shared responsibility. He said, “I’m delighted to see our students taking the initiative to enhance our department. These projects reflect their dedication to their studies and their commitment to creating a conducive learning atmosphere.”
The Mass Communication Students Association’s endeavors demonstrate the power of student-led initiatives to drive positive change within academic institutions. As they continue to implement projects that enhance the quality of education and promote responsible citizenship, the Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic community eagerly supports their efforts and looks forward to the lasting impact they will make.
NIGER, BURKINA FASO, AND MALI FORGE TREATY TO ADDRESS ECOWAS CHALLENGES
By Ismail Yahya
In a new twist to counter the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), three West African Sahel countries of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, all under military juntas, have on Saturday signed a security pact promising to come to the aid of each other in case of any rebellion or external aggression.
The three countries are struggling to contain insurgents linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State and have also seen their relations with neighbours and international partners strained because of the coups.
The latest coup in Niger drove a further wedge between the three countries of the regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has threatened to use force to restore constitutional rule in the country.
Mali and Burkina Faso have vowed to come to Niger’s aid if it is attacked.
“Any attack on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of one or more contracted parties will be considered an aggression against the other parties,” according to the charter of the pact, known as the Alliance of Sahel States.
It said the other states will assist individually or collectively, including with the use of armed force.
“I have today signed with the Heads of State of Burkina Faso and Niger the Liptako-Gourma charter establishing the Alliance of Sahel States, with the aim of establishing a collective defence and mutual assistance framework,” Mali junta leader Assimi Goita said on his X social media account.
All three states were members of the France-supported G5 Sahel alliance joint force with Chad and Mauritania, launched in 2017 to tackle extremists in the region.
Mali has since left the dormant organisation after a military coup, while deposed Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum said in May last year that the force is now “dead” following Mali’s departure.