Watch LIVE
Watch LIVE
Home Blog Page 30

Army Convenes Security Stakeholders’ Meeting to Address Rising Tensions in Taraba

ADBN News
-
0
Army Convenes Security Stakeholders’ Meeting to Address Rising Tensions in Taraba

The Commander of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), on Wednesday convened a high-level security stakeholders’ meeting in Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State to address growing security concerns and communal tensions.

Held at the Palace of the Emir of Ibi, the session brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials and security representatives to discuss persistent threats to peace across the local government. Key issues on the agenda included incursions by criminals from neighbouring states, farmland disputes, illegal crop harvesting and longstanding chieftaincy disagreements in Dampar, Tapga, Sarkin Kudu and Gidan Kiye communities—factors that have led to loss of lives and destruction of property.

The meeting was attended by the Emir of Ibi, Alhaji Abubakar Salihu Danbauro, the Chairman of Ibi Local Government Council, Emmanuel Ubandoma, district heads, local chiefs, community leaders and operatives from sister security agencies.

Addressing the gathering, Brigade Commander Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa urged stakeholders to strengthen their commitment to peaceful coexistence and condemned reports of individuals blocking farmers from harvesting their crops. He described the actions as “provocative” and capable of triggering violent clashes, warning that such behaviour would now attract serious consequences.

He also reminded traditional and community leaders of their responsibility to maintain peace within their domains, cautioning that security agencies would take decisive action against anyone found inciting or escalating crises.

The meeting ended on a peaceful note, with all parties pledging to collaborate more effectively to safeguard stability across the area.

ICRC, NMA Drive New Push To Standardise Reporting Of Violence In Healthcare

ADBN News
-
0
ICRC, NMA Drive New Push To Standardise Reporting Of Violence In Healthcare

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) have strengthened joint efforts to address the growing attacks on health workers and medical facilities across the country.

This commitment was the focus of a sensitisation and data engagement meeting held on Thursday in Abuja, aimed at improving structured incident reporting and enhancing the protection of healthcare services nationwide.

The Deputy Head of Delegation of the ICRC, James Mathews, said the collaboration represents a crucial step toward safeguarding hospitals, health workers, and patients. He noted that many attacks remain undocumented, weakening national response mechanisms and making it harder to advocate for effective policy interventions.

He explained that the meeting is intended to build a unified, systematic approach to documenting violence against healthcare, stressing that reliable data is essential for analysis, accountability, and evidence-based action at both national and state levels.

Representing the NMA President, Dr. Ushakuma Anenga commended the ICRC for sustaining its partnership with the Association. He said health workers continue to face intimidation, disruptions, assaults and violent attacks issues particularly prevalent in northern states which undermine service delivery and endanger medical personnel.

Dr. Anenga highlighted the value of the Healthcare in Danger (HCiD) data system in providing an objective method for capturing incidents. He urged NMA Branch Secretaries, described as the Association’s “engine room,” to demonstrate commitment through timely documentation, validation and submission of reports from their states.

Also speaking, NMA Secretary-General, Dr. Ben Egbo, drew attention to the rising cases of violence against health workers, citing the recent assault on a female medical doctor in Yobe State, which led to a doctors’ strike and an ongoing court case. He said the absence of harmonised national statistics has made it difficult to convince policymakers of the severity of the problem.

Dr. Egbo said the new reporting system will provide credible, structured evidence to strengthen advocacy and improve accountability. He assured that all state reports will be channelled to his office for proper collation with support from NMA secretariat staff.

The meeting brought together NMA Branch Secretaries from northern states and the FCT for training on the HCiD incident documentation and reporting tool. Branches are expected to begin monthly submissions of incident data to the NMA Headquarters for consolidation and onward sharing with the ICRC.

FAAN Cautions Public Over Fraudulent AVSEC Hiring Advertisement

ADBN News
-
0
FAAN Cautions Public Over Fraudulent AVSEC Hiring Advertisement

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has warned the public to disregard a fraudulent online aviation recruitment advertisement claiming to hire Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel through a link allegedly associated with the agency.

In a statement signed by Henry Agbebire, Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, FAAN stressed that no AVSEC recruitment is currently ongoing and cautioned Nigerians against clicking on the link or sharing personal information with unknown sources.

The authority urged the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious messages or websites to the appropriate authorities, and rely solely on FAAN’s verified channels for authentic updates. The statement described the circulating advert and its link as fake, misleading, and entirely unconnected to FAAN.

Niger Bandits Launch Raid, Kidnap Farmers Amid Military Presence

ADBN News
-
0
Niger Bandits Launch Raid, Kidnap Farmers Amid Military Presence

Bandits have launched a deadly attack in Palaita community, Erena Ward, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, abducting 24 people, including pregnant women, from a rice farm. The attackers struck around 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday while residents were harvesting crops, escaping with the victims despite the community’s proximity to a military base.

Earlier on the same day, another group of armed men invaded Kakuru community in Erena Ward, where they brutalised a blind resident, severing his right hand after taking a mobile phone that belonged to a neighbour. The victim is currently receiving first aid at a local patent medicine shop in Kuduru community.

The Niger State Police Command, through Public Relations Officer Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incidents and said efforts are ongoing to rescue the abducted victims. This latest attack follows a recent spate of kidnappings, including the abduction of over 300 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, highlighting a worsening security crisis across northern Nigeria.

Adamawa Strengthens UN Partnership to Boost Peace and Development

ADBN News
-
0
Adamawa Strengthens UN Partnership to Boost Peace and Development

The Adamawa State Government is intensifying its collaboration with international development partners to address persistent humanitarian challenges arising from insecurity, displacement, and limited access to basic services.

Deputy Governor Professor Kaletapwa Farauta called for deeper cooperation during a courtesy visit by a United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) delegation, led by its head in Nigeria, Mr. Trond Jensen, at the Government House in Yola. She emphasized that as the global humanitarian system undergoes a major reset, the engagement provided a crucial platform for aligning priorities, improving coordination, and ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most.

Professor Farauta reiterated Adamawa State’s commitment to transparent cooperation, joint planning, and strengthening the humanitarian-development nexus to achieve sustainable impact for its people.

Mr. Jensen expressed confidence in working with the state government and humanitarian partners to address the challenges facing vulnerable communities. He noted that the visit aimed to highlight the humanitarian needs in Adamawa and stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to provide timely support to affected populations.

Nigeria’s Gas Resources Poised to Close Africa’s Energy Gap, IEA Confirms

ADBN News
-
0
Nigeria’s Gas Resources Poised to Close Africa’s Energy Gap, IEA Confirms

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s abundant gas resources could play a critical role in closing Africa’s energy access deficit, where nearly 600 million people remain without electricity.

The agency highlighted this during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), aimed at strengthening collaboration on data integrity, energy transition, investment climate, and upstream sector governance. The IEA noted that even if Africa fully exploits its gas reserves, global emissions would increase by only 0.5%, illustrating the continent’s minimal climate impact and its right to develop energy resources.

The agency commended NUPRC for integrating decarbonisation requirements into upstream project approvals and embedding green strategies into Field Development Plans (FDPs), aligning with global expectations for low-carbon investment.

IEA further expressed readiness to provide Nigeria with access to select market intelligence tools such as the Monthly Oil Market Report, host joint workshops on gas monetisation and Africa’s energy transition, expand technical-level data exchanges with NUPRC experts, and support Nigeria’s participation in high-level international energy forums.

Speaking on behalf of NUPRC, Commission Chief Executive Engr. Gbenga Komolafe reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transparent regulation, investor confidence, and sustainable development under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021. He emphasised that NUPRC will maintain an open-door policy to ensure continuous engagement with the IEA and other development partners, positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s energy transition and upstream investment growth.

FG Denounces Military Takeover in Guinea-Bissau, Warns Coup Leaders of Accountability

ADBN News
-
0
FG Denounces Military Takeover in Guinea-Bissau, Warns Coup Leaders of Accountability

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the recent military coup in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, describing it as a serious threat to democratic governance and stability in West Africa.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria expressed deep concern over the development, noting that it violates regional democratic principles. Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa stated that Nigeria “in the strongest possible terms, condemns this act of military insurrection which undermines the democratic progress, constitutional order, and stability not only of Guinea-Bissau but of the entire West African sub-region.”

The government emphasized that the coup contravenes the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which rejects any attempt to seize power through unconstitutional means. Nigeria expressed solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and demanded the immediate restoration of constitutional rule, urging the coup leaders to respect democratic institutions and ensure the safety of all detainees, including election observers still in the country.

Abuja also called for calm, peaceful dialogue, and adherence to the choice of the electorate. The government warned that those responsible for the takeover would be held accountable for actions capable of destabilizing the country and reversing democratic gains.

As a key member of ECOWAS and the African Union, Nigeria affirmed its commitment to working with regional and international partners to ensure a speedy return to constitutional order. “We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the promotion of democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent,” the statement concluded.

Prominent Islamic Scholar Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi Dies at 102

ADBN News
-
0
Prominent Islamic Scholar Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi Dies at 102

Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi, one of the most influential leaders of the Tijjaniyya Islamic sect and a towering figure in West African Islamic scholarship, has died at the age of 102.

The revered cleric passed away in the early hours of Thursday at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi.

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed confirmed the passing and extended condolences to the late scholar’s family, students, followers, and the wider Muslim Ummah across Nigeria and beyond. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor described Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi as a man of deep faith, humility, and immense wisdom.

He noted that the late Sheikh devoted his entire life to propagating Islam, teaching the Holy Qur’an, and uplifting communities morally and spiritually. He highlighted that through his many schools and learning centres, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi mentored thousands who went on to memorise the Qur’an and spread Islamic knowledge across Africa.

Governor Mohammed said the cleric’s contributions to theology, jurisprudence, and Islamic history have left an enduring impact on the intellectual and spiritual life of the nation. He added that the state government would continue to honour his legacy by supporting the Islamic institutions and values he championed.

The governor prayed for Allah’s forgiveness upon the late scholar and for Aljannatul Firdaus to be granted to him, while asking God to give his family, followers, and the Ummah the strength to bear the loss.

Diri Unveils Bayelsa’s First Commercial Aircraft In Historic Inaugural Flight

ADBN News
-
0
Diri Unveils Bayelsa’s First Commercial Aircraft In Historic Inaugural Flight

Bayelsa State has recorded a major milestone as Governor Douye Diri on Tuesday led top dignitaries on the inaugural commercial flight into the Bayelsa International Airport, marking the launch of the state’s first government-owned aircraft.

The 72-seater ATR-72/600 aircraft, one of two newly acquired by the state, departed Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 9:30 a.m. with about 50 passengers on board, including Governor Diri; former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah; members of the state’s National Assembly Caucus; the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Sam Ogbuku; President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Ben Okaba; and PANDEF National Chairman, Dr. Boladei Igali.
The aircraft touched down in Yenagoa at 10:40 a.m. to jubilant crowds and a traditional water cannon salute.

Governor Diri described the occasion as a historic fulfilment of his administration’s promise to connect Bayelsa to the rest of the country by air. He said the launch represented a decisive step toward strengthening the state’s aviation capacity and unlocking new economic opportunities.

“Six years ago, we promised the people of Bayelsa a future of air connectivity and opportunity. Today, that promise takes wing,” he said. “This achievement marks the beginning of a new era of connectivity for Bayelsa, bringing regular and reliable air services that fuel modern commerce and development.”

He added that the aircraft, currently registered under Pioneer Airline, would be renamed Air Bayelsa or Bayelsa Air before commercial operations begin, emphasising that the airline is fully state-owned.

Diri also acknowledged the contributions of former Governors Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and Seriake Dickson, noting that the state’s aviation successes would not be complete without their pioneering roles. He further expressed appreciation to Premium Trust Bank, Pioneer Airline, and the Bayelsa State House of Assembly for their support.

Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, Air Vice-Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), announced that the airline will operate daily flights to Lagos and Abuja, with intentions to expand into other Niger Delta states. Pioneer Airlines MD, Captain Henry Ungbuku, pledged that the company would live up to the expectations of the state and its people.

Premium Trust Bank CEO Emmanuel Emefienim described the achievement as a testament to strategic partnership, while Senator Konbowei Benson, speaking for the National Assembly Caucus, commended the governor’s foresight and pledged continued support.

Senator Lokpobiri urged the state government to sustain the airline by ensuring officials pay for tickets when using the service, while NDDC MD Ogbuku hailed the launch as a significant development that will boost regional connectivity.

PANDEF National President Dr. Boladei Igali said the people of the Niger Delta were proud of the governor’s accomplishment and promised the forum’s continued support as the state positions itself for new heights in development.

Bayelsa State has recorded a major milestone as Governor Douye Diri on Tuesday led top dignitaries on the inaugural commercial flight into the Bayelsa International Airport, marking the launch of the state’s first government-owned aircraft.

The 72-seater ATR-72/600 aircraft, one of two newly acquired by the state, departed Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 9:30 a.m. with about 50 passengers on board, including Governor Diri; former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah; members of the state’s National Assembly Caucus; the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Sam Ogbuku; President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Ben Okaba; and PANDEF National Chairman, Dr. Boladei Igali.
The aircraft touched down in Yenagoa at 10:40 a.m. to jubilant crowds and a traditional water cannon salute.

Governor Diri described the occasion as a historic fulfilment of his administration’s promise to connect Bayelsa to the rest of the country by air. He said the launch represented a decisive step toward strengthening the state’s aviation capacity and unlocking new economic opportunities.

“Six years ago, we promised the people of Bayelsa a future of air connectivity and opportunity. Today, that promise takes wing,” he said. “This achievement marks the beginning of a new era of connectivity for Bayelsa, bringing regular and reliable air services that fuel modern commerce and development.”

He added that the aircraft, currently registered under Pioneer Airline, would be renamed Air Bayelsa or Bayelsa Air before commercial operations begin, emphasising that the airline is fully state-owned.

Diri also acknowledged the contributions of former Governors Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and Seriake Dickson, noting that the state’s aviation successes would not be complete without their pioneering roles. He further expressed appreciation to Premium Trust Bank, Pioneer Airline, and the Bayelsa State House of Assembly for their support.

Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, Air Vice-Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), announced that the airline will operate daily flights to Lagos and Abuja, with intentions to expand into other Niger Delta states. Pioneer Airlines MD, Captain Henry Ungbuku, pledged that the company would live up to the expectations of the state and its people.

Premium Trust Bank CEO Emmanuel Emefienim described the achievement as a testament to strategic partnership, while Senator Konbowei Benson, speaking for the National Assembly Caucus, commended the governor’s foresight and pledged continued support.

Senator Lokpobiri urged the state government to sustain the airline by ensuring officials pay for tickets when using the service, while NDDC MD Ogbuku hailed the launch as a significant development that will boost regional connectivity.

PANDEF National President Dr. Boladei Igali said the people of the Niger Delta were proud of the governor’s accomplishment and promised the forum’s continued support as the state positions itself for new heights in development.

NAF, NNPC Partner To Secure Critical Oil, Gas Infrastructure

ADBN News
-
0
NAF, NNPC Partner To Secure Critical Oil, Gas Infrastructure

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) have renewed their collaboration to protect vital oil and gas assets across the country.

The strengthened cooperation was announced in a statement by NAF Director of Public Relations, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, following a courtesy visit by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, in Abuja.

During the visit, Aneke stressed the strategic importance of safeguarding pipelines, flow stations, offshore platforms, and other critical energy installations. He underscored the need for advanced technology and intelligence—particularly expanded surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities—to ensure early threat detection and rapid response.

He noted that better alignment between NAF operations and NNPC priorities would guarantee uninterrupted energy supply, boost production, and reinforce economic stability. According to him, the Air Force has already recorded significant progress in combating oil theft through coordinated efforts with other security agencies.

Ojulari, in his response, commended the Air Force for its commitment and described the renewed partnership as timely under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for NNPC to ramp up investment and productivity. He reaffirmed NNPC’s support for joint initiatives, including intelligence sharing, operational planning, and the deployment of modern security technologies to safeguard vulnerable assets.

Aneke added that the enhanced cooperation would protect national resources, strengthen coastal and maritime security, and counter threats posed by insurgents and criminal networks.

Again, Gunmen Strike Kwara Community, Kidnap Pregnant Woman, Children, Others

ADBN News
-
0
Again, Gunmen Strike Kwara Community, Kidnap Pregnant Woman, Children, Others

At least 11 residents, including a pregnant woman, two nursing mothers, and several children, were abducted in a fresh attack in Isapa, Ekiti Local Government Area, Kwara State.

The raid occurred around 6:00 p.m. on Monday, carried out by 20 to 30 armed bandits who fired sporadically, forcing residents to flee. An elderly woman was reportedly hit by a stray bullet. Expended AK-47 shells were recovered across the community after the attackers retreated with their captives.

The kidnapped victims include:

  • Talatu Kabiru (20)
  • Magaji (6)
  • Kande (5)
  • Hadiza (10)
  • Mariam (6)
  • Saima (5)
  • Habibat (housewife)
  • Fatima Yusufu (housewife, pregnant)
  • Sarah Sunday (22, pregnant)
  • Lami Fidelis (23, nursing mother)
  • Haja Na Allah (nursing mother)

The attack comes less than 24 hours after the release of previous abductees from a Christ Apostolic Church in Ekuru, where gunmen had earlier killed three worshippers and abducted 38 others.

Eyewitnesses reported that bandits moved through several sections of Isapa, leaving bullet holes in doors and walls, spreading fear among residents.

Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, confirmed the incident, saying he was on his way to Isapa from Ilorin and would provide updates on the situation. Security agencies and local vigilante groups are actively working to locate the kidnappers and rescue the victims.

The incident underscores the escalating security crisis in Nigeria, which has prompted mass school closures in affected regions, particularly in the North.

1...293031...552Page 30 of 552

Company

More

Our Programs

Copyright © Advocate Broadcasting Network 2024. All Rights Reserved