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Jubilation as ECOWAS Parliamentarians visit Kano schools
Jubilation as ECOWAS Parliamentarians visit Kano schools
…Barau donates bus, uniforms to 856 students
By: Michael Mike
There was wild jubilation in part of Kano as members of the Sixth Legislature of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament on Wednesday paid sensitization visits to two schools in Kano State as part of activities lined up for the Second Extraordinary Session of the regional legislative arm holding in the North West Nigeria town.
The Deputy President of the Senate and the Acting Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Barau Jibrin, a prominent son of Kano State led the delegation to Aliyu Saidu Bebeji Government Arabic Secondary School and Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN).
Parliamentarians from 12 countries, including Nigeria, Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote D’ Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Senegal, Sierra Leone and the Republic of Togo, are participating in the second extraordinary session of the parliament in the ancient town.
The parliamentarians were met with joyous crowds who were apparently happy that the town was hosting the iconic meeting and that their son touched their lives with impactful projects.
At the secondary school, Senator Barau explained the importance of the ECOWAS in integrating the subregion, stating that they are in the school to bring the Parliament closer to the people and for the students to tap from their wealth of experiences.
He said: “We are here today for the members of the ECOWAS Parliament to know about our educational system and to meet our students, as well as for you, the students, to learn more about the ECOWAS Parliament.
“This school is like my school. I belong to this community. I was the first House of Representatives member of this federal constituency (Tarauni) in 1999.
“Therefore, I am donating uniforms to all the school’s students, one set for each student. I will send tailors to take your measurements for the new uniforms. I will also give a new Sharon vehicle for the school and N1 million to the teachers.”
Similarly, another member of the Parliament, Paschal Agbodike, who represents Ihiala Federal Constituency of Anambra State at the House of Representatives, donated N1 million to the school.
Earlier, the state commissioner of education, Umar Doguwa, thanked the parliamentarians for the visit, describing it as the first in history.
Represented by the Director of Schools of the Ministry, Alhaji Abbas Abdullahi, the commissioner lauded Senator Barau for bringing the ECOWAS delegation to Kano, saying it would benefit the entire state.
On his part, the school’s principal, Yusuf Atiku said: “I am not surprised with what Senator Barau did to us because of his generosity. That is why he is called Maliya.
“We appreciate this kind gesture and support to us. We will never forget what you have done to us. We thank you and the entire ECOWAS Parliament.”
At MAAUN, the lawmakers interacted with the students on the significance of ECOWAS.
Jubilation as ECOWAS Parliamentarians visit Kano schools
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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