News
120 Nigerian returnees get skills, empowerment
120 Nigerian returnees get skills, empowerment
By: Michael Mike
The RECONNECT Project (Reintegration and Empowerment for Connecting and Nurturing Opportunities of Vulnerable Populations and Returning Migrants) have graduated in Abuja 120 persons, mostly Nigerian returnees from unfortunate trips outside of the country.
The three-month skill acquisition programme is designed to make them self-reliant and employers of labour.
The project, according to the Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, has supported the economic and social reintegration of vulnerable groups, including returned migrants, internally displaced persons (IDPs), persons with disabilities (PWDs), and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) through vocational training and business start-up support.
Mamedu, speaking at a graduation ceremony of the project sponsored by International Organisation for Migration (IOM), German Development Cooperation (GIZ), and GOPA in collaboration with
the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), said in total, 400 individuals across the three locations of Abuja, Lagos and Benin have been trained in market-driven skills such as fashion design, hairdressing, catering and hotel management, baking and confectionery, textile and adire making, and shoemaking.
He said. “Today, we celebrate not only the completion of a training programme for the one hundred participants in Abuja but also the beginning of new ventures, new livelihoods, and hope for these Nigerians.”
He added that: “Over the past few months, participants have undergone intensive hands-on training and entrepreneurial development through the Inspire, Create, Start and Scale (ICSS) module which is an essential component that prepares them not only to work but to lead, innovate, and create opportunities for others.
“The RECONNECT Project goes beyond reintegration. It embodies the fight against poverty and inequality. By strengthening the capacity of young Nigerians with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, we are contributing to tackling the structural causes of poverty and unemployment. We are building resilience, strengthening livelihoods, and giving people the tools to reclaim their dignity.”
Mamedu said: “As we celebrate you today, we also call on the Federal Government to create better conditions for our young people, conditions that foster opportunity, dignity, and hope. No Nigerian should feel compelled to risk their life through irregular migration in search of survival. The solution lies in empowerment, education, and inclusive development.”
The Federal Commissioner of the NCFRMI, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed, who presented certificates to the graduating returnees, charged them to remain in the country.
“I am sure after your graduation, we will not find any of you on the street begging because of the training that you have received. And also, the starter fund that you received to start your business.
“This is all about integration. This is all about empowerment. You have to put your commitment into putting this trade into action.
“Please remain in Nigeria. Please be part of this country. The government is changing, and our life system is also changing positively in Nigeria today. “
120 Nigerian returnees get skills, empowerment
Crime
Borno troops repel Boko Haram attack in Hawul, one killed
Borno troops repel Boko Haram attack in Hawul, one killed
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled simultaneous attacks by ISWAP terrorists on Jihuhi and Harang villages in Hawul Local Government Area of Borno State, leaving one person dead.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that on Jan. 27 at about 1630 hours, the terrorists invaded the villages, firing indiscriminately and setting several houses ablaze.
The attack fatally injured Adamu Inusa, also known as Daddy, 35, a member of the Hunters Group in Hawul.
He was evacuated to General Hospital Hawul, where he was confirmed dead on arrival. His corpse has been deposited at the hospital mortuary and will be released to his family for Islamic burial after clearance operations in the affected communities.
A combined team of troops of Operation HADIN KAI, police tactical units, and local Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)/Hunters groups responded promptly, engaging the terrorists and successfully repelling the attack.
The area remains under close monitoring as security forces continue clearance and patrol operations.
Borno troops repel Boko Haram attack in Hawul, one killed
News
Security forces in Gombe arrest suspected cattle rustler, recover 50 sheep
Security forces in Gombe arrest suspected cattle rustler, recover 50 sheep
By: Zagazola Makama
Gombe State Police Command has arrested a suspected cattle rustler and recovered 50 sheep following a distress call in Amada.
The report revealed that on Jan. 28 at about 8:22 p.m., a mob apprehended one Sani Jamilu, 25, of Sabon Kaura LGA, Katsina State, who was reportedly seen with a flock of sheep around Dolli and Shilto communities.
The second suspect, identified only as Lawali, escaped.
The injured suspect was rescued by police and taken to Amada Primary Health Clinic for medical attention.
Sources say Police have launched an investigation into the incident and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect.
Security forces in Gombe arrest suspected cattle rustler, recover 50 sheep
News
How We Turned from Foes to Friends — Franco-German Envoys Share Lessons with Nigeria
How We Turned from Foes to Friends — Franco-German Envoys Share Lessons with Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
The Ambassadors of Germany and France to Nigeria have urged the country to draw lessons from decades of Franco-German cooperation, stressing that reconciliation, friendship, and shared responsibility are critical drivers of growth, stability, and regional integration.
German Ambassador Annett Günther and French Ambassador Marc Fonbaustier made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during events marking the 63rd anniversary of German-French Day, which commemorates the signing of the Élysée Treaty on January 22, 1963.

Speaking jointly, the envoys reflected on how France and Germany overcame centuries of rivalry and conflict to become close partners and allies after the Second World War.
They noted that the experience demonstrates that even the most hostile relationships can be transformed through sustained dialogue and political commitment.
“The history of reconciliation and European unification shows that no matter how dark the past may seem, a different future is possible,” the ambassadors said, adding that this message is particularly relevant for Nigeria and its partners. “We are stronger together — and stronger as friends.”
They explained that Franco-German cooperation is anchored in formal treaties that mandate continuous consultation between both countries at all levels, including heads of state, foreign ministers, and senior officials. This coordination, they said, now extends beyond Europe to global and African issues.
Fielding questions from journalists, the ambassadors pointed to Nigeria’s strategic role within West Africa, saying the country could apply similar principles to strengthen the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Fonbaustier said stronger countries within a regional bloc have a responsibility to drive integration while supporting weaker members to ensure collective progress. “A union only succeeds when all its members move forward together,” he said, noting that unity should be based on shared development rather than narrow national interests.
He described Nigeria as the leading power within ECOWAS and encouraged it to continue playing a central role in promoting regional security, economic integration, and people-to-people exchange.
Günther also echoed these views, highlighting what she described as a “Franco-German reflex” of constant consultation and coordination. She said this habit of cooperation enables both countries to respond jointly to emerging challenges and align their diplomatic efforts, including in Africa.
They both stressed that the Franco-German journey from hostility to partnership offers valuable lessons for Nigeria and the African continent, particularly in fostering regional unity, managing diversity, and building long-term peace through cooperation.
How We Turned from Foes to Friends — Franco-German Envoys Share Lessons with Nigeria
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