The Qatari government recently unveiled plans to provide significant support to over 1,000 orphans affected by the Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State, Nigeria. This announcement was made during a meeting between the Qatari ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Ali Bn Ghanem Al-Hajari, and the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, held at the Government House in Maiduguri. During the meeting, Dr. Al-Hajari pledged essential assistance for approximately 1,000 orphans in Borno State, emphasizing Qatar’s commitment to supporting the region. Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for the construction of a new primary school in Maiduguri, aligning with the government’s…
Author: Muhammed Hassan
On April 24, 2024, the House Committee on Army, headed by Chairman Honorable Abdullahi Mamudu, conducted a visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) at Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri. The purpose of the visit was to oversee the activities of the JTF OPHK and gain insights into various aspects of their operations. During the visit, Colonel MI Ibrahim provided a comprehensive briefing to the committee, covering topics such as an overview of OPHK, military kinetic operations, resettlement efforts for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), the surrender of terrorists, and the ongoing threat of…
The United States Government recently released its ‘2023 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices Nigeria’, shedding light on significant issues within Nigeria’s judicial system. One major concern highlighted by the report was the arbitrary arrests of individuals like Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by Nigerian security personnel. Emefiele’s case, in particular, drew attention as he was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) on June 10 for what was termed “investigative reasons.” Despite being granted bail by a Federal High Court…
The Federal Government has initiated a plan to enhance the quality of education across the nation by embarking on the upgrade of 50 selected senior secondary schools. This ambitious project aims to improve the educational infrastructure and facilities available to students in these institutions, thus enhancing an environment conducive to effective learning and development. Dr. Iyela Ajayi, the Executive Secretary of the Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSCE), revealed this pivotal initiative during a recent engagement in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State. Speaking at a courtesy visit hosted by Dr. John Mamman, the Commissioner of Education, Dr. Ajayi said the…
The Mission Director of United States Agency for International Development USAID, Melisa Jones, spoke to journalists at the Government House Maiduguri, praising Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, for his dedication to improving the lives of Borno citizens. Jones affirmed Zulum’s commitment to the welfare of his people and expressed USAID’s ongoing support for his initiative and highlighted the importance of their partnership, noting that it would be further strengthened under Zulum’s leadership. “Our partnership is with this government, and our partnership would be strengthened by this visit and by the leadership of this Governor (Zulum). We are very appreciative…
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, made an appearance in Gombe on Wednesday for the commissioning of a road constructed under the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya. This newly inaugurated road, spanning 1.6 kilometers, connects several communities within Akko local government area, including Nayi-Nawa, Kuwait, Bagadaza, Hammadu kafi, and Wuro Biriji, ultimately linking the GRA to the Gombe Southern By-pass. The significance of this road lies not only in its physical infrastructure but also in its potential to alleviate the daily struggles faced by the residents of these densely populated areas and…
The federal government has taken a significant step in the mining sector, revoking a total of 924 dormant licenses spread across four key areas, exploration, mining, small-scale mining, and quarrying. This move, announced by Dele Alake, the minister of solid minerals development, came to light during a press conference held on Wednesday. In ensuring transparency and adherence to constitutional protocols, Alake emphasized that ample notice had been provided to all relevant stakeholders. The notification process was conducted through the official Gazette of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, specifically highlighted in No. 227, which was published on December 27, 2023, shows…
Boko Haram fighters recently launched an ambush in southeastern Niger, targeting five soldiers who were guarding a crucial agricultural site near the Nigerian border. This site, part of Niger’s efforts to bolster rice and wheat production and create over 12,000 jobs, fell under attack, according to local authorities. General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma, the governor of Diffa region, confirmed the incident on national television, attributing it to “Boko Haram elements.” Despite the setback, General Bagadoma expressed determination to continue the agricultural development program for the benefit of the local population. “We are determined to continue this (cultivation) work in the interest…
The Birnin-Gwari Emirate Progressive Union (BEPU) of Kaduna State has raised serious concerns about the alarming rise in bandit attacks plaguing their community. In a statement issued by their chairperson, Pharm Jamila Sani, on Tuesday, BEPU highlighted the urgent need for immediate action to address the surge in insecurity gripping the area. The statement underscored the pervasive atmosphere of fear gripping the local population and stressed the pressing need for enhanced security measures to restore peace and stability to the region. Despite acknowledging the efforts of both the state government and security agencies in tackling the menace, BEPU called for…
Vice President Kashim Shettima made a significant announcement during a dialogue on nutrition in Nigeria held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had given the green light for 20 percent of food intervention programs to be directed through religious and traditional institutions. This move aims to address concerns raised by various religious leaders, including the Imam of Bayero University, regarding the exclusion of these institutions from the distribution of palliatives. Specifically, Shettima highlighted that organizations such as Tsangaya schools and mission schools would be specifically targeted for this intervention. To ensure effective implementation, the…
The Plateau State Government recently announced a significant allocation of Three Hundred Million Naira (N300,000,000) monthly to address outstanding pensions, gratuities, and death benefits dating back to 1986. This effort, led by Governor Caleb Muftwang, underscores the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations to retired civil servants. The State Head of Service, Barrister Rauta Dakok, shared this development during a press briefing in Jos, Plateau State. He emphasized the administration’s accomplishments, including promptly initiating monthly pension payments for retirees and revising the salary structure. Additionally, the government resolved an ongoing strike by state workers and increased Hazard Allowances for medical…
Two teenagers, known for their expertise in making improvised explosive devices (IEDs) for the terrorist group Boko Haram, have surrendered to troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in Monguno, Borno State. A press statement from Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, the MNJTF spokesperson, identified the teenagers as 19-year-old Abubakar Mohammed, also known as Garba, and 13-year-old Bana Modu. The statement explained that Mohammed and Modu were en route to plant an IED along the Baga road in Kukawa Local Government Area when they decided to abandon their mission and turn themselves into Sector 3 of the MNJTF. Rather than…
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, Yusuf Tuggar, made a concerning revelation during his speech at the African Counter-Terrorism meeting in Abuja. He emphasized that terrorists in Nigeria and across Africa wield control over a staggering number of arms, totaling over 40 million. This revelation underscores the grave threat posed by terrorism on the continent. “For many years, we have pushed for greater cooperation to counter terrorism and tackle the proliferation of unregistered and untraceable small arms. There are 40 million small arms and light weapons under the control of non-state actors in Africa.” Tuggar underscored the gravity of…
Former President Goodluck Jonathan recently spoke at a one-day national dialogue on state policing organized by the House of Representatives in Abuja. During his address, he emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s policing system. He asserted that the debate on whether to implement state police had been settled and that the focus should now shift to enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement operations. “The issue today is very critical. One thing is that we don’t need to debate on whether we should have state police or not. I think the matter has been concluded. The issue…
The incident in the Alawa area of Shiroro local government, Niger State, Nigeria, involving missing military personnel and suspected members of the Boko Haram sect, unfolded during a confrontation last Friday. Reportedly, gunmen believed to be affiliated with Boko Haram, besieged the Bassa community for three days, culminating in a fierce clash with a joint task force comprising military and vigilante groups from Alawa, Erena, and Pandogari, in the vicinity of Lolo in Alawa. Sources, speaking anonymously, revealed that among the casualties were a captain, a major, and four others from the security forces. Tragically, the security officers reportedly lost…
Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) is reportedly planning to launch an online radio station called “Radio Raeed” as part of its propaganda efforts. The move, according to Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, is likely intended to attract more recruits from the North East. Makama suggests that Radio Raeed will be located in Kangarwa and will serve as a supporter of the Islamic State, broadcasting weekly news propaganda summaries in Hausa, Arabic, and Kanuri languages. He emphasizes that this development signals the insurgency’s adaptability in utilizing various propaganda channels to recruit new…
El-Kanemi Warriors, a football club hailing from Borno, has clinched a highly sought-after position in the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super Eight playoffs following an impressive performance in Group C of the competition. Their journey to qualification was marked by a hard-fought victory over Yobe Desert Stars, securing a lone goal and propelling them to the top of the Group C standings with an impressive 34 points from 16 games. Having secured their spot, El-Kanemi Warriors now shifts its focus to the Super Eight playoffs, where they aim to compete for the prestigious title of 2024 NNL champions. Yet, the…
The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Honorable Justice Josiah Majebi, recently emphasized the significance of having a court within a community, stating that it symbolizes civilization and underscores the community’s commitment to upholding the rule of law. This assertion came during the commissioning ceremony of a Senior Magistrate’s Court in Imane, Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State. In his remarks, Justice Majebi highlighted that a society’s faith in the administration of justice and its willingness to create a conducive environment for legal proceedings are hallmarks of a civilized society. “I want to thank all of you that made donations…
A tragic road accident occurred at Gaya Junction along the Kano-Maiduguri Expressway in Kano State, resulting in the loss of 11 lives and injuries to 16 others. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kano State Sector Command, through its Public Education Officer, A.A. Labaran, provided details of the incident. It was reported that the accident involved two vehicles a Toyota hummer bus and a Hijet mini Pick-up. Preliminary investigations suggested that over-speeding led to the loss of control, resulting in the crash and subsequent fire outbreak around 3:45 pm on Friday. Out of the 28 individuals involved, 11 lost their…
During the weekly press conference held in Abuja, Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, the ECOWAS Commissioner on Human Development and Social Affairs, shed light on the organization’s concerted efforts to address humanitarian crises plaguing West African nations. Prof. Sarr underscored the pivotal role of the department, which operates within a comprehensive mandate spanning humanitarian concerns, cultural preservation, educational advancement, and scientific endeavors. Detailing the scope of ECOWAS’s humanitarian initiatives, Prof. Sarr disclosed the allocation of significant financial resources toward alleviating the plight of internally displaced persons, refugees, asylum seekers, and the communities hosting them across all 15 member states. Specifically, in…
At least 16 individuals lost their lives, with around 20 others sustaining injuries along Baga-Kukawa Road, after a commercial vehicle triggered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) believed to have been planted by the ISWAP terrorist group. Zagazola Makama, a respected counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region, initially reported 10 fatalities, but subsequent information from reliable sources indicated that the death toll was higher, with at least 16 people confirmed dead. The spokesperson for the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lt Col Ajemusu Jingina, declined to comment on the incident, citing the jurisdiction of the Multi-National…
The Nigerian Army’s troops have achieved a breakthrough by seizing control of a stronghold belonging to Boko Haram/Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) in Borno State. This successful offensive, Operation Desert Sanity III, involved a coordinated effort utilizing artillery and air bombardments, alongside ground combat operations along Ngumne, Kawaran, and Mangu Axis in the Sambisa Forest and Timbuktu Triangle. Despite encountering threats such as improvised explosive devices and fierce resistance from the terrorists, the troops effectively engaged them with substantial firepower, ultimately dislodging them from their stronghold. As a result of this operation, the brave troops managed to recover…
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has initiated the distribution of food baskets generously donated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) in Katsina State. This initiative aims to provide crucial support to vulnerable individuals across Katsina and Borno States. The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Farouk Lawal, who represented Governor Dikko Umar Radda. Notably, similar distributions have already taken place in Kano, Katsina, and a camp in Maiduguri, Borno State. During the event, the Deputy Governor conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Federal Government,…
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, recently issued a stark warning to Nigerians about the impending threat of flooding across the nation. Speaking at the public presentation of the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) in Abuja, Utsev stressed the importance of readiness, revealing that a staggering 31 states and 148 local government councils are under significant risk. The Annual Flood Outlook serves as a comprehensive roadmap to mitigate the devastating impacts of floods on communities nationwide. Utsev underscored the necessity for collaborative efforts from both governmental and non-governmental sectors, urging all stakeholders to take proactive…
The air squad of Operation Hadarin Kai (OPHK) carried out a precise airstrike on the hideouts of ISWAP terrorists in Kolleram village along Lake Chad. This happened on April 13, 2024, and it led to the elimination of more than 30 terrorists, including senior commanders Ali Dawud, Bakura Fallujah, and Mallam Ari. Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, who is the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, confirmed the success of the operation in a statement today. In his statement, he mentioned that the operation conducted on April 13, 2024, was highly successful. The assessment after…
The Nigeria Army has clinched victory in the 2024 National Open Shooting Championship, generously sponsored by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS). Their stellar performance at the five-day event, held at the indoor sports hall of Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, earned them a total of 10 medals: 7 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze. Brigadier General Abdulrahim Bello, Acting Director of Physical Training for the Nigerian Army, expressed his admiration for the shooters’ exceptional performances throughout the Championship. He emphasized the Army’s continued dedication to supporting the growth of sports, citing their dominant presence in…
The Federal Government announced on Monday that it will do a mini-census focusing on education to help deal with the many problems in the sector. The Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, said this in Abuja during a workshop for desk officers in the ministry and its agencies. The workshop was about implementing government priorities for education. The Minister said the government would work with an ICT company to collect data on all schools in Nigeria, including the number of schools, teachers, students, and classrooms. This data will help in decision-making and planning. It will also help advise state governments…
In a recent incident in Tsafe town, Zamfara state, a group of stubborn bandits brought trouble and fear to the community. The town, where the government of Tsafe local government council operates, faced a violent attack by these bandits, resulting in significant damage and loss. According to eyewitness accounts, the bandits, arriving on motorcycles around 11:00 pm on Sunday, divided into three groups. One group targeted the Zamfara state College of Health Science and Technology, while the other two groups entered the town, firing guns indiscriminately. The purpose of the attack seemed to be to create fear among the residents…
Six students from Kuriga School who were kidnapped have been freed from the kidnappers’ hideout and are currently receiving treatment in Kaduna, according to the military. The General Officer Commanding (GOC) First Mechanised Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, handed over 131 of their mates to the state government. The military used both kinetic and non-kinetic methods to secure their release without paying any ransom. The six rescued students, one male and five females, are undergoing treatment at the Darlet Barracks military hospital. They will later receive psycho-social therapy before returning to Kuriga. During their captivity, the…
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) recently carried out airstrikes as part of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) targeting terrorists’ hideouts in the Tumbuns region near Lake Chad. The Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, provided details in a statement on Monday. The airstrikes, which occurred on March 24, 2024, targeted a location Northwest of Arina Woje in the Tumbuns area. The decision to conduct these airstrikes was based on intelligence indicating the presence of terrorist hideouts in the area. Additionally, the intelligence highlighted increased terrorist activities around clusters of structures hidden under trees near the…
