Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa-Kwankwaso, has raised alarm over the growing infiltration of armed bandits into several border communities in Kano, warning that the situation could deteriorate if the Federal Government fails to intervene decisively.
DAILY NIGERIAN reports that bandits had recently infiltrated Tsanyawa, Shanono, and Bagwai Local Government Areas, killing and abducting residents before Nigerian troops launched a counter-operation.
Speaking on Saturday at the 4th Convocation Ceremony of Skyline University Nigeria, SUN, in Kano, Mr Kwankwaso said the increasing attacks along the Katsina–Kano boundary require urgent federal attention.
He identified Tsanyawa, Shanono, Bagwai, Gwarzo, and Karaye LGAs as communities recently hit by bandits crossing over from neighbouring Katsina State.
“Kano has been secure for many years, but these recent attacks on our border towns are a serious threat,” he warned.
“We are facing attacks from bandits coming from Katsina. Our border communities are under severe pressure, and the Federal Government must act. A Commander-in-Chief must rise to the responsibility of protecting lives and property.”
Mr Kwankwaso, who is also the national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, criticised local “peace accords” reportedly established between some Katsina communities and bandits.
He described the arrangements as reckless compromises that unintentionally provide sanctuary for criminals.
“It does not make sense for one local government to sign an accord that allows bandits to operate freely and then cross into other states,” he said.
“If the government cannot protect people within its borders, it must think again.”
The former governor condoled with families who lost loved ones in the recent attacks and commended security agencies and the Kano State Government for their response.
He also used the event to commend Skyline University Nigeria for maintaining high academic standards and fostering a blend of local and expatriate expertise.
Mr Kwankwaso encouraged graduating students to embrace entrepreneurship, saying quality education should empower youths to become job creators rather than depend solely on government employment.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, also addressed the gathering, congratulating the graduates and stressing the importance of integrity, service, and strong values in national development.
He expressed delight that 60 percent of the graduating class were women, saying this signaled a promising future for female leadership and participation in development sectors.
The Vice Chancellor of Skyline University, Professor Ajith Kumar Veetil, said a total of 223 students graduated this year.
He explained that the graduates included 43 Master’s degree recipients—the university’s first-ever cohort—and 180 Bachelor’s degree graduates.
Among the undergraduates, 79 earned Second Class Upper honours while 77 graduated with Second Class Lower division.
Prof. Veetil noted that the university, established in 2018, has expanded from a single school to five schools within eight years, remaining committed to delivering world-class, value-driven education.
“This event marks another milestone in our eight-year journey of academic excellence, innovation, and transformation,” he said.
“Skyline University has continued to empower students with knowledge and values required to lead in a global context.”
