₦airaland Forum

The ancient city of Oyo, once the beating heart of the mighty Oyo Empire, is again preparing to thunder with drums, chants, fire and pride. From August 7th to 16th, 2025, thousands of Yoruba traditionalists, cultural enthusiasts, and global followers of the Sango deity will gather for the World Sango Festival 2025 — a ten-day spiritual and cultural celebration rooted in ancestral reverence and communal strength.

But this year’s edition carries even deeper meaning.

For the first time, the festival will be held under the reign of Alaafin Akeem Owoade, the newly installed king of Oyo, who also turns 50 years old this year. This symbolic alignment of leadership, age and tradition marks a new era for the people of Oyo and Yoruba culture at large.

👑 Alaafin Akeem Owoade at 50: Thunder in His Prime
At just 50, Alaafin Akeem Owoade has stepped into the royal shoes of the revered kings before him, including Sango himself — the powerful warrior-king and god of thunder and fire. His youthful wisdom and royal bearing have already begun to rekindle the pride of the Oyo people.

His Majesty is not just a ceremonial leader. He is a custodian of Yoruba heritage at a time when the world is reconnecting with its African roots. His reign is expected to revitalize traditional worship, heritage tourism, and local pride.

⚡ What Is the Sango Festival?
The Sango Festival is not just another cultural event. It is a deeply spiritual annual celebration honouring Sango, the third Alaafin of Oyo who became deified after his death. Known for his power to summon thunder and fire, Sango remains one of the most influential Orisha in the Yoruba spiritual pantheon.

From Nigeria to Cuba, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Cameroon, and even Portugal, Sango is venerated through rituals, music, dance, and oral traditions.

The festival takes place near the sacred Koso Temple in Oyo, believed to be where Sango’s divine energy still resides. Devotees dress in red and white, plait their hair, and wear traditional beads as they participate in chanting, drumming, storytelling, fire dances, and sacred rites.

New yams roasted in palm oil are shared among worshippers — a symbolic gesture of renewal, unity and ancestral bond.

Global Significance of a Local God
Sango worship has crossed oceans and survived the transatlantic slave trade, thriving in Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Brazilian religious traditions such as Santería, Candomblé, and Vodun. His mythology, power, and symbols — thunderbolt (edun ara), fire, axe — are recognised worldwide.

The World Sango Festival continues to bring together Africans and the diaspora in a unifying spiritual experience, making Oyo a cultural pilgrimage site for descendants of the African continent.

📍 World Sango Festival 2025: Come Experience the Thunder
Date: August 7–16, 2025
Venue: Festival Arena, Aafin Oyo, Oyo State
Hosted by: His Imperial Majesty Alaafin Akeem Owoade

Whether you are Yoruba, African, Afro-Brazilian, Afro-Caribbean, or a cultural explorer — this is your invitation to witness the living legacy of Sango and the rebirth of Oyo’s royal spirit.

Join the Conversation
Have you ever attended the Sango Festival before?
Are you planning to visit this August?
Let’s hear your thoughts, stories, and expectations below.👇👇👇
https://mixitv.com.ng/world-sango-festival-2025-a-new-thunder-awakens-in-oyo-as-alaafin-akeem-owoade-turns-50/

#SangoFestival2025 #AlaafinAt50 #VisitOyo #YorubaCulture #AfricanSpirituality #NaijaHeritage

Oyo 2025: Makinde Takes Over Tourism Sector, Unveils Big Plans for Agodi Gardens, Idere Hills, and More

Governor Seyi Makinde has assumed direct oversight of Oyo State’s tourism sector as he leads efforts to transform it into a serious economic driver. This was announced at the Oyo State International Tourism Summit 2025 held in Ibadan, where the governor made bold declarations to cut bureaucracy, attract investors, and rebrand tourism as big business.

🔹 Why It Matters:
Makinde says the state must move “from culture to commerce”, showing that tourism is not just about festivals—it’s about jobs, revenue, and global attention.

🔹 Key Highlights:
New Tourism Investor Liaison Unit

Fair Tourism Compact for accountability

Agodi Gardens upgrade to international standard

Focus on top sites:
• Idere Hills, Idere
• Iyake Suspended Lake, Ado-Awaye
• Bower’s Tower & Ibadan Cultural Centre
• Eleye Lake, Ibadan

Makinde also led dignitaries to tour exhibition stands, reinforcing his administration’s readiness to turn Oyo into Nigeria’s next big tourism hub.
read more: https://mixitv.com.ng/oyo-2025-a-tourism-revolution-begins-with-culture-vision-and-investment/

Is Oyo ready for tourism takeover? What site would you visit first? Let’s talk.

#Oyo2025 #MakindeCares #TourismAsBusiness #VisitOyo #NaijaTravel

The Ondo State Government has begun a bold move to revive one of Nigeria’s most iconic tourism assets—Idanre Hills—as Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa appoints Hon. Segun Afolabi as Commissioner for Culture and Tourism.

In what many observers see as a strategic decision, Afolabi recently led a high-powered team to Oke Idanre, climbing the famous 682 steps to assess the hill’s current state. The tour revealed many neglected historical and cultural monuments including the old palace, the ancient court, sacred shrines, and the dilapidated quarters that once served the ancient community.

“We cannot allow this treasure to remain in this condition. Governor Aiyedatiwa is determined to make Idanre Hills a functional, revenue-generating, world-class destination again,” said Afolabi.

Plans for “World Oke Idanre Day” with UNESCO Support
The Ondo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism is also proposing an official “World Oke Idanre Day” and plans to enlist UNESCO’s recognition. This, according to the Commissioner, will give the annual festival international visibility and preserve the unique heritage of the Idanre people.

Ondo Golf Course Also in Focus
The team didn’t stop at the hills. They also visited the Ondo State Golf Course at Atosin-Idanre, another asset left in poor condition. The Commissioner believes the golf course can become a premium leisure and sporting hub with the right investment—attracting both local and foreign visitors, and boosting the state's economy.

Strong Team, Clear Vision
Afolabi was joined by:

Mr. Adeyemi O. Sule, Permanent Secretary

Mr. Adeola Aderinola, Director of Tourism

Princess Dupe Adetuwo, SA to the Governor on Culture

Hon. Dimeji Olanegan, SA on Mobilization

The mission is clear: Restore Idanre. Reposition Ondo. Rekindle Culture.

This is coming at a time when tourism is being recognized globally as a tool for sustainable development. With a committed leadership and a passionate commissioner at the helm, many believe Idanre Hills may finally return to the global spotlight it truly deserves.

What do you think, Nairalanders?

Can Idanre Hills become Nigeria’s next big international destination again? What steps should the government take to attract investors, tourists, and global attention to this heritage site?

Let’s discuss 👇

#OndoIsLucky #IdanreHills #WorldOkeIdanreDay #OdsgCultour #NaijaTourism #TravelNigeria #AiyedatiwaInAction



















https://mixitv.com.ng/idanre-to-rise-again-aiyedatiwas-government-set-to-revive-tourism-treasure-through-strategic-leadership/

The Ondo State Government has begun a bold move to revive one of Nigeria’s most iconic tourism assets—Idanre Hills—as Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa appoints Hon. Segun Afolabi as Commissioner for Culture and Tourism.

In what many observers see as a strategic decision, Afolabi recently led a high-powered team to Oke Idanre, climbing the famous 682 steps to assess the hill’s current state. The tour revealed many neglected historical and cultural monuments including the old palace, the ancient court, sacred shrines, and the dilapidated quarters that once served the ancient community.

“We cannot allow this treasure to remain in this condition. Governor Aiyedatiwa is determined to make Idanre Hills a functional, revenue-generating, world-class destination again,” said Afolabi.

Plans for “World Oke Idanre Day” with UNESCO Support
The Ondo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism is also proposing an official “World Oke Idanre Day” and plans to enlist UNESCO’s recognition. This, according to the Commissioner, will give the annual festival international visibility and preserve the unique heritage of the Idanre people.

Ondo Golf Course Also in Focus
The team didn’t stop at the hills. They also visited the Ondo State Golf Course at Atosin-Idanre, another asset left in poor condition. The Commissioner believes the golf course can become a premium leisure and sporting hub with the right investment—attracting both local and foreign visitors, and boosting the state's economy.

Strong Team, Clear Vision
Afolabi was joined by:

Mr. Adeyemi O. Sule, Permanent Secretary

Mr. Adeola Aderinola, Director of Tourism

Princess Dupe Adetuwo, SA to the Governor on Culture

Hon. Dimeji Olanegan, SA on Mobilization

The mission is clear: Restore Idanre. Reposition Ondo. Rekindle Culture.

This is coming at a time when tourism is being recognized globally as a tool for sustainable development. With a committed leadership and a passionate commissioner at the helm, many believe Idanre Hills may finally return to the global spotlight it truly deserves.

What do you think, Nairalanders?

Can Idanre Hills become Nigeria’s next big international destination again? What steps should the government take to attract investors, tourists, and global attention to this heritage site?

Let’s discuss 👇

#OndoIsLucky #IdanreHills #WorldOkeIdanreDay #OdsgCultour #NaijaTourism #TravelNigeria #AiyedatiwaInAction



















https://mixitv.com.ng/idanre-to-rise-again-aiyedatiwas-government-set-to-revive-tourism-treasure-through-strategic-leadership/

Fellow Nairalanders,

I came across a disturbing report making the rounds – Ekiti State University (EKSU) is allegedly charging ₦125,000 for graduates to collect their original certificates. Let that sink in: not for a new degree, not for a masterclass or skill acquisition, but just to collect the one thing you worked hard for – your own certificate.

This raises serious questions:

1. What exactly are students paying for?
EKSU students pay tuition, development fees, examination fees, departmental fees, and even convocation fees. So why should there be another ₦125k hurdle for a document that should be part of the graduation process?

2. Is this legal or just pure extortion?
A university is a public institution. Unless there's a transparent, Senate-approved reason for such a fee (like printing on gold or shipping to Mars), ₦125,000 feels more like extortion than administration.

3. How does this compare to other universities?
Many federal and state universities charge between ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 for certificate collection. Even private universities with far higher tuition rarely go beyond ₦50,000. Why is EKSU this expensive?

4. What about the struggling graduates?
In a country with mass unemployment and inflation, this charge is not only unfair – it’s insensitive. Imagine a graduate who's yet to secure a job, now being asked to pay that much just to prove they graduated.

5. Accountability matters
If EKSU truly needs funds, they should publish a breakdown of the certificate production cost and make it public. Otherwise, it looks like a means to exploit thousands of students and their parents.

Final Thoughts:
Education is a right, not a luxury. The certificate is a symbol of academic achievement, not a luxury item. If graduates can't even access it without breaking the bank, what’s the point of the whole process?

Let’s speak up before other institutions copy this model. We must demand fairness, transparency, and respect for students who already sacrificed years and finances to earn their degrees.

What are your thoughts? Are you an EKSU student or alum who’s been affected? Drop your experiences.

Nigeria spends over $1.1 billion to $2.4 billion annually on medical treatment abroad — money that could easily transform our local hospitals into world-class institutions. But what if I told you that right here in Abuja, several hospitals are already offering top-tier medical procedures at international standards and far lower costs?

Yes, you read that right. Hospitals like Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, Alliance Hospital, DIFF Medical Centre, Cedarcrest, and Premier Medical Centre are already performing life-saving surgeries — kidney transplants, spine operations, orthopedic repairs, IVF treatments, oncology, and more — all here in Nigeria, often by Nigerian doctors trained overseas.

🔍 So Why Are Nigerians Still Travelling Abroad?

The truth is, perception and trust remain major issues. Even after building the flashy ₦21 billion Presidential/VIP Medical Centre in Abuja, top government officials still fly abroad for treatment, setting a poor example. This disconnect has made the public lose faith in the very system our leaders claim to be improving.

But the tide is changing — and Abuja is leading that shift.

Let’s take Zenith Medical as a case study. They’ve successfully carried out hundreds of kidney transplants at a fraction of the cost of the same procedure in India, the UK, or the US. Alliance Hospital recently made headlines for conducting complex spinal surgeries locally with excellent outcomes. These hospitals aren’t waiting for government bailouts — they’re investing, innovating, and saving lives.

💰 Cost Comparison? No Contest.

A kidney transplant that costs $70,000 abroad can be done in Abuja for around $20,000 or less — with quality post-op care included. Same goes for orthopedic and neurosurgery procedures. So why waste foreign exchange and time flying out, when the solution is just a short trip to Abuja?

🛫 Opportunity for African Travel Agents & Local Economy

If promoted properly, Abuja can become the Dubai of medical tourism in West Africa. Nigerian and African travel agents have a huge role to play — by packaging medical tourism deals that include hospital appointments, airport pickup, lodging, and follow-up care.

Abuja already has the infrastructure, diplomatic presence, and accessibility to make it work.

📌 What Needs to Happen Next?

Public trust must be restored — starting with leaders using Nigerian hospitals.

Travel agents should step into this space and create tailored medical packages.

The government should promote local medical successes and stop wasting billions abroad.

The NMA’s proposed legislation to limit foreign medical trips unless locally referred must be supported.

Nigeria doesn’t have to remain a medical tourism exporter. We can flip the script — attract patients from across Africa, retain our health spending, and build trust in our doctors.

Let’s give our hospitals the recognition they deserve.

🗣️ What do you think, Nairalanders?
Would you consider getting treated in Nigeria if the quality and cost make sense?
Have you or someone you know used any of these Abuja hospitals?
URLhttps://mixitv.com.ng/repositioning-nigeria-can-abuja-become-africas-medical-tourism-powerhouse/

Drop your comments below 👇🏾
Let’s have a real conversation about this 🇳🇬🩺

Osun State is gearing up for a landmark event — The Osun Tourism Extravaganza and Mega Expo 2025 — holding on Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th August in Osogbo. Billed as The Big Tourism Show, this two-day experience is designed to promote culture, creativity, business, and youth participation in tourism.
At a press conference held at Aeonon Suites, Osogbo, on July 22, Hon. Abiodun Ojo, the Osun Commissioner for Culture & Tourism, officially unveiled the event, calling it “a turning point for tourism development in Osun and Nigeria at large.”
Here’s what to expect:

🔹 Key Highlights of the Osun Mega Expo 2025
1. Youth Tourism Challenge
• Activities: Drawing, fashion parade, cultural dance, quiz & debate
• Participants: Primary, Secondary & Tertiary institutions
• Perks: Free entry, audience rewards (recharge cards, drinks), certificates of participation
2. Osun Cycling Tourism Challenge
• Route: Nike Arts Gallery ➡️ The Groove
• Free for cyclists with registration; includes medical check & participation tags
• Audience Entry: “Value for money” (buy from listed vendors)
3. Guided Historical Tours
• Sites include: Osun Sacred Grove, Aafin Ilu, Nike Art Gallery
• Open to registered participants (online sign-up)
4. Nigeria Cuisine Training & Food Caravan
• Learn to cook Nigerian dishes
• Participants get meals + access to dining area
• Partnership opportunities for food brands & distributors
5. Cultural Showcase & Award Night (OASIS Event Centre)
• Parade of states, drama, poetry, traditional music
• Red carpet, media coverage & special awards

What Makes This Expo Different?
• Non-monetary gate fee: Attendees gain entry by supporting local vendors (buying recharge cards, snacks, food items, etc.)
• Massive youth engagement: Targeted at students, creators, and young entrepreneurs
• Business + culture blend: MSME exhibitions, product showcases, and networking with banks and investors
• Certification: For most competitions, including cycling, cooking, and debates

Who Should Attend?
• Students & schools
• Travel & tour operators
• Creatives & content creators
• MSMEs & product marketers
• Foodies, cyclists, and cultural lovers

Calling All Brands & Sponsors
There are opportunities for sponsorship, vendor slots, brand exhibitions, and media partnerships. Join in showcasing your services and aligning your brand with a high-impact, future-facing tourism event.

📍Location: Osogbo, Osun State
📅 Dates: August 6 – 7, 2025
📞 For details/registration: To register click the link: https:///ZuA6637DdNuJSVqm9

Osun is ready. Are you?
#OsunMegaExpo2025 #TheBigTourismShow #YouthInTourism #CultureAndBusiness #TourNigeria

If you’ve never heard of Igbo-Ora, then maybe it’s time to update your travel goals—or at least your understanding of Nigeria beyond the usual cityscape noise. Just about two hours from Ibadan, this quiet town isn’t known for oil wells or skyscrapers. No, Igbo-Ora is known for twins. And not just a few—it’s considered the twin capital of the world.

I stumbled upon the Ibeji Festival research while looking for lesser-known cultural events in Nigeria. And I must say, what I found shook me—in a good way.

From Taboo to Celebration
Let’s go back a bit. In ancient Yoruba belief, twins were once seen as a spiritual imbalance—an omen. Some were even abandoned or worse. But today? Twins are rockstars in Igbo-Ora. They are paraded, celebrated, and dressed in regal attire like royalty.

The annual Ibeji Festival held in November is a massive week-long celebration of twinhood. You’ll see matching agbadas, masquerade dances, food stalls everywhere—and most importantly, you’ll feel the heartbeat of a community that has redefined its identity around something once feared.

How many of us still carry deep cultural stigmas passed down without question? The people of Igbo-Ora have turned theirs into pride. That’s powerful.

Food as Fertility? The Ilasa Theory
Now here’s the kicker—many locals believe their secret lies in a stew called Ilasa, made from okro leaves and served with Amala. They genuinely believe that eating Ilasa increases the chances of birthing twins.

Now, scientists may argue that genetics, diet, or mineral-rich water might explain the phenomenon. But let’s be honest: how many of us still trust Grandma’s herbs more than hospital prescriptions?

Whether it’s science or symbolism, what matters is that food, belief, and biology intersect in ways we often overlook.

The Rituals That Speak to the Soul
The Ere Ibeji tradition—where a carved statue represents a lost twin—is one of the most emotional parts of the festival. These aren’t just decorations. Families feed, bathe, and dress them, keeping the memory of a lost child alive and spiritually present.

It might sound strange to outsiders, but to those in Igbo-Ora, it’s a bridge between worlds. It made me think—how do we, in our urban chaos, honor the memory of loved ones? Or have we traded ritual for routine?

Nigeria Needs More of This
At a time when our country seems to be tearing at the seams—from political bitterness to ethnic division—Igbo-Ora reminds us that culture can be a healing force. It can unify, inspire, and even boost local tourism.

Let’s stop centering our cultural pride only around Lagos parties and Abuja concerts. Small towns like Igbo-Ora are keeping the soul of Nigeria alive.

Tourism boards, content creators, local businesses—pay attention. The world is craving authenticity. Igbo-Ora offers it in abundance.

So What Can We Do?
If you’re a traveler, plan a trip this November. If you’re a researcher, dig into the twin phenomenon. If you’re a content creator—tell their story. And if you’re just a regular Nigerian trying to make sense of this country, know this:

Igbo-Ora is more than a place. It’s proof that belief, when embraced positively, can shape an entire community’s destiny.

Let’s talk—have you been to Igbo-Ora? Do you believe in the Ilasa theory? Would you attend the Ibeji Festival?

Drop your thoughts 👇🏾
Let’s give this town the recognition it deserves.

Written by: Afolabi osho
Cultural Enthusiast | Advocate of Hidden Nigerian Stories

The recent appointment of Engr. Kayode Olubunmi Ojo as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Nigeria (UNN) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a significant decision that reflects the administration’s commitment to excellence in higher education leadership. Engr. Ojo’s extensive experience in business, engineering, and academia makes him an outstanding choice to oversee one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions. His pedigree as an international expert, coupled with his previous roles in university administration, positions him as an ideal leader to drive academic and institutional reforms at UNN.

A Legacy of Leadership in University Administration

Engr. Kayode Ojo has had a remarkable trajectory in university governance. His tenure as Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) demonstrated his ability to foster institutional development through strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. At FUOYE, he was instrumental in strengthening academic programs, enhancing infrastructural development, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. His leadership helped position the university as a rising hub for innovation and research in Nigeria.

Following his success at FUOYE, Engr. Ojo was appointed Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at the Federal University, Lokoja (FULOKOJA). There, he continued his legacy of promoting sustainable academic excellence, advocating for faculty development, and driving policies that improved student learning outcomes. His ability to bring together diverse stakeholders—ranging from government agencies to the private sector—enabled him to elevate FULOKOJA’s status as a competitive institution within Nigeria’s higher education landscape.

However, his tenure at FULOKOJA was not without challenges. In a surprising turn, he was compelled to resign from his position amid administrative disagreements regarding the direction of the institution’s governance. Despite this, his contributions to the university’s growth remain undeniable.

Now, with his new role at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Engr. Ojo is poised to lead one of the country’s earliest and most distinguished universities into a new era of academic growth and innovation.

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka: A Center of Excellence

Founded in 1960, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has long been a beacon of academic excellence and intellectual advancement in Africa. As Nigeria’s first indigenous university, UNN has produced generations of leaders, scholars, and professionals who have made significant contributions to various sectors globally. The institution has maintained a strong reputation for its research capabilities, particularly in engineering, medicine, humanities, and the sciences.

However, like many Nigerian universities, UNN faces challenges related to funding, infrastructure, and global competitiveness. The appointment of Engr. Ojo as Pro-Chancellor is timely, as his expertise in institutional leadership and his vast international experience can help address these issues through innovative governance and strategic partnerships.

Engr. Kayode Ojo: An International Expert in Institutional Development

Beyond academia, Engr. Ojo’s career as an accomplished businessman and engineer underscores his capacity to drive transformative change. As the CEO and Managing Director of SALTA Infrastructure and Construction Co. Limited, he has demonstrated remarkable business acumen, growing the company into a multibillion-naira enterprise with international operations in the United States, Trinidad and Tobago, and the UAE. His experience in corporate leadership will be instrumental in forging partnerships between UNN and industry leaders, fostering research funding, and enhancing the employability of graduates.

Engr. Ojo is also a founding partner of Atlas International Engineering Services (Nig) Limited, a company renowned for executing multimillion-dollar projects with international oil and gas firms. His global network and strategic insights can help UNN attract international research collaborations, exchange programs, and funding opportunities, further elevating its reputation as a center of excellence.

A Vision for UNN’s Future

As Pro-Chancellor, Engr. Ojo is expected to champion policies that enhance academic quality, infrastructure development, and institutional sustainability at UNN. His leadership will likely focus on:

Strengthening Academic Programs: By leveraging industry partnerships and fostering research innovation, Engr. Ojo can help position UNN as a global leader in education.

Infrastructure Development: His expertise in construction and infrastructure can contribute to modernizing UNN’s facilities, improving student accommodations, and expanding research centers.

Financial Sustainability: Drawing from his business acumen, he may explore alternative funding models, including endowment funds and strategic partnerships, to reduce reliance on government allocations.

Student-Centered Policies: By advocating for policies that enhance student welfare, mentorship programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives, Engr. Ojo can help produce well-rounded graduates equipped for the global workforce.

Conclusion

Engr. Kayode Olubunmi Ojo’s appointment as Pro-Chancellor of UNN represents a bold step toward strengthening Nigeria’s higher education system. His blend of academic governance experience, international business expertise, and commitment to institutional growth positions him as a transformative leader for UNN. Under his guidance, the University of Nigeria is poised to reinforce its status as a premier institution, not just in Africa, but on the global stage.

As he takes on this critical role, stakeholders in the education sector eagerly anticipate the positive impact of his leadership in shaping the future of UNN and higher education in Nigeria as a whole.

https://mixitv.com.ng/engr-kayode-olubunmi-ojo-a-strategic-leadership-shift-at-the-university-of-nigeria-an-editorial-by-afolabi-osho/

On December 14th, Senator Rufa’i Hanga, representing Kano Central Senatorial District, held a groundbreaking empowerment program at his campaign office on Hadejia Road. The initiative, which showcased his unwavering dedication to the development of Kano Central, aimed at addressing critical needs and fostering economic self-reliance across the district. With a strong focus on sustainable growth, the program catered to the residents of all 15 local government areas within Kano Central, including Dala, Dawakin Kudu, Fagge, Garun Malam, Gezawa, Gwale, Kano Municipal, Kumbotso, Kura, Madobi, Munjibir, Nassarawa, Tarauni, Ungoggo, and Warawa.
The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam, attended the event and lauded the Senator's vision. “Senator Rufa’i Hanga has set an exemplary standard for leadership with this initiative. His commitment to the people of Kano Central and his alignment with the ideals of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the Kwankwasiyya movement is evident in the breadth and depth of today’s empowerment program,” the Deputy Governor remarked.
Wide-Ranging Support for Economic Empowerment
The program distributed an impressive array of resources to individuals, families, and community leaders, addressing critical sectors such as agriculture, entrepreneurship, education, and transportation.
To boost agricultural productivity, which is a cornerstone of Kano's economy, the Senator provided 2,000 bags of fertilizer and 300 pumping machines to support irrigation farming. These contributions aim to enhance food security and reduce the region’s dependency on external food supplies.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women and youth, 700 sewing machines were distributed to support tailoring and fashion design ventures. Additionally, 300 grinding machines were provided, aiding small-scale food processing businesses and enabling recipients to establish sustainable income streams.
Transportation and Community Development
Understanding the significance of mobility in supporting small businesses and improving rural access, Senator Hanga distributed 15 cars, 100 motorcycles, and 300 bicycles. These contributions are expected to enhance the ease of transport and connectivity within the district.
In a bid to promote agricultural mechanization, 15 tillers were allocated to NNPP leaders in the local governments, emphasizing the importance of modern farming techniques. Another notable addition was the distribution of 400 high-capacity grinding machines with a 10-kilogram floor capacity, further supporting food production and small-scale businesses.
Focus on Education
The program also highlighted the Senator’s commitment to education. A total of 2,250 school uniforms and 750 school bags were distributed to students across the 15 local government areas. These efforts aim to ease the financial burden on families while encouraging school attendance.
“This gesture underscores the importance of education as a tool for empowerment,” Senator Hanga remarked. “Investing in our children is investing in the future of Kano Central.”
A Community United
The event drew a large crowd of beneficiaries, community leaders, and stakeholders, all praising Senator Hanga's efforts to combat poverty and unemployment.
Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam, the Deputy Governor, shared his admiration for the Senator’s initiative. In his words:
“Senator Hanga is a leader who understands the heartbeat of his people. His focus on empowering communities through agriculture, entrepreneurship, and education demonstrates his dedication to lifting Kano Central to new heights. Today’s event reflects his enduring commitment to the Kwankwasiyya philosophy of grassroots empowerment. I encourage every beneficiary to use these items wisely, as they have the potential to change lives.”
Transformative Leadership
Senator Hanga expressed gratitude to the residents of Kano Central for their support and called for collective efforts in ensuring the effective use of the distributed resources. “This initiative is not just about handing out items; it’s about building a foundation for sustainable development,” he said.
This empowerment program stands as a testament to Senator Rufa’i Hanga’s impactful leadership and his resolve to address pressing challenges within Kano Central. As the beneficiaries begin to utilize the resources, the region is set to witness significant progress in economic activities, education, and community development.

In an era where technological skills define the future, Senator Rufa’i Hanga’s initiative through the Rufa’i Hanga Foundation stands as a beacon of hope and a model of effective leadership in Kano Central. On Sunday, November 17, 2024, the foundation launched a remarkable sponsorship program for 30 orphans and vulnerable children, committing 30 million Naira to equip them with cutting-edge knowledge in Computer Education, Artificial Intelligence, Web Design, and Software Development. This bold move underscores Senator Hanga’s commitment to ensuring no child is left behind in the journey toward technological empowerment and societal transformation.


At the heart of this initiative is the vision to break the cycle of poverty and vulnerability by empowering the next generation with skills that are not only relevant but indispensable in today’s world. The selected students, from JSS 1 to JSS 3, will not only gain technical knowledge but also receive holistic support that reflects the foundation’s understanding of their unique needs. This includes breakfast and lunch, weekly financial support deposited into personal accounts, transport allowances of 5,000 Naira, and uniforms. Such comprehensive care goes beyond education; it fosters dignity, stability, and a sense of belonging for these children.

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The program’s implementation at Code Craft International School further demonstrates the foundation’s focus on quality. By partnering with an institution renowned for its expertise in technological education, the foundation ensures that these children receive top-notch training, preparing them for a world where digital literacy is paramount. The decision to introduce them to advanced fields like Artificial Intelligence and Software Development at an early stage is visionary. These are disciplines that are reshaping industries globally and will equip these young minds with skills to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Leadership, they say, is measured by the impact it has on people. Senator Hanga’s dedication to improving Kano Central’s socio-economic landscape through education and technology is nothing short of transformative. His initiative addresses not only the immediate needs of these children but also the broader challenge of building a skilled workforce capable of driving Nigeria’s technological advancement. It is a testament to what purposeful leadership can achieve when combined with a deep understanding of community needs.

Equally commendable are the efforts of Haj. Hadiza Rufa’i Hanga and Haj. Fatima Rufa’i Hanga, whose leadership within the foundation has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Their involvement ensures that the initiative is executed with compassion and a focus on sustainability. Their roles highlight the importance of inclusive leadership in tackling societal challenges, especially those that affect vulnerable populations.



The foundation’s approach aligns with global best practices in educational philanthropy. By providing transport allowances, meals, and uniforms, the program removes barriers that could hinder the children’s ability to participate fully. The financial support deposited weekly into personal accounts instills a sense of responsibility and financial literacy from an early age, further empowering the children to become self-reliant adults.

This initiative is not just a philanthropic gesture; it is an investment in the future of Kano Central. By equipping these children with technological skills, the foundation is creating a ripple effect that will benefit families, communities, and the nation at large. These young learners will grow to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders who can contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic development.

The Rufa’i Hanga Foundation’s focus on vulnerable children is particularly significant in a region where access to quality education remains a challenge for many. By prioritizing orphans and children from disadvantaged backgrounds, the foundation is addressing inequities that have long hindered progress in Nigeria. This is a model that other leaders and organizations should emulate.



As we celebrate this laudable initiative, it is important to recognize the role of the broader community in ensuring its success. Local governments, businesses, and individuals must support such programs to expand their reach and impact. Collaboration is key to creating a society where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive.

Senator Rufa’i Hanga’s actions remind us of the profound difference that visionary leadership can make. The Rufa’i Hanga Foundation’s program is a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize education and empowerment. It is a reminder that investing in our children is the most sustainable way to build a prosperous and equitable future for Kano Central and Nigeria as a whole.


In a world increasingly driven by technology, the foundation’s initiative places Kano Central on the map as a region preparing its youth to lead and innovate. The Rufa’i Hanga Foundation’s commitment to these children is not just a gift; it is a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Senator Hanga and the foundation’s leadership deserve commendation for their unwavering dedication to creating a brighter future for all.

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