16/01/2026
ICT & Development Journalism: A Journey of Growth and Friendship
Today, I had a meaningful meeting with my close friends and classmates, Usman Kabir Sulaiman and Shafi’u Muhammad, a moment that reminded me how far our journeys have taken us.
I met Shafi’u Muhammad during our Basic Certificate in Development Journalism programme at Kano Development Journalism Academy. After graduation, Shafi’u continued to grow academically before eventually focusing on business, where he is now doing well. His journey reflects resilience and adaptability.
Usman Kabir Sulaiman is my close friend from our B.Sc. Information and Communication Technology programme at Northwest University, Kano. We were both members of the Young Programmers Forum, a platform where we learned and practiced coding. We specialized in web development, and after lectures, we often visited the Kano State Library to read and sharpen our skills. Today, Usman is a strategic professional who focuses on Web Development and Cybersecurity, combining technical expertise with business insight.
I shared with them that my team and I have established an online newspaper, publishing in both English and Hausa (TAV News and TAV News Hausa). With my background in Development Journalism, Information and Communication Technology, and Computer Science, this initiative represents a deliberate effort to create jobs, tell authentic stories, and contribute to development.
I must also acknowledge Dr. Sani Danjuma, the Principal Private Secretary (PPS) to the Governor of Kano State. During our studies, he served as our Level Coordinator and supported us immensely by providing thousands of books. This initiative played a major role in helping us master web programming and build a strong learning culture.
The encouragement and advice I received today were truly uplifting. This journey is a reminder that education, mentorship, friendship, and persistence are powerful tools for success.
Shaddadu Danjuma Aliyu Gwarzo, Special Assistant on Development to the Governor of Kano State, Alh Abba Kabir Yusuf