Celebration as ECWA Pastor Released, Reunited with Family in Sanga LGA

By: Zagazola Makama

Joy filled Mararaban Abros in Sanga Local Government Area yesterday as Samson Ndah Ali, a 30‑year‑old pastor of the ECWA Church, was released by his captors and reunited with his family.

Zagazola Makama reported that Pastor Ali was abducted on April 8, 2025, by unknown gunmen while travelling in the area.

The Kidnappers have earlier demanded a ransom of N100 million for the release of Pastor Samson. A joint team of security operatives comprising the Nigerian Army, the police, and the Department of State Services (DSS) has launched an operation in a bid to rescue the abducted cleric.

His congregation and relatives had been anxiously awaiting news of his safety. On the morning of April 10 at about 9:00 a.m., intelligent sources confirmed that the pastor had regained his freedom and was en route home.

Upon his return, church members and neighbours gathered at his residence to offer prayers of thanksgiving. “We give thanks to God for his safe return,” said one church elder, as tears of relief turned quickly to shouts of praise. Children released balloons, and women sang hymns to mark the occasion.

Pastor Ali is currently resting at home and is reported to be in good health. No further confirmation if ransom was paid for his release.

Celebration as ECWA Pastor Released, Reunited with Family in Sanga LGA

ECOWAS Court Honours Four Retiring Staff

By: Michael Mike

 The Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS held a retirement celebration in honour of four esteemed staff members – Dr Athanase Atannon, Dr William Deiyan Towah, Mr Félicien Hounkanrin and Mr Iliyas Jonah – in recognition of their remarkable years of dedicated service, professionalism and commitment to the institution.
 
In his address, Honourable President of the Court, Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, commended the retirees for their unwavering commitment, hardwork and exemplary professionalism. “We cannot fail to tell you, honored gentlemen, here and now, that the Court owes you all a deep debt of gratitude,” the President remarked. “Each of you leaves an indelible mark on this institution through your professional achievements and impact on your colleagues.”
 
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Dr Yaouza Ouro-Sama, Chief Registrar of the Court, reflected on the invaluable contributions of the retirees to the Court’s operational success. He praised their dedication, passion for excellence and hard work that have left a lasting impact’ on the Court and the staff members.
 
A staff representative, Mr Ghislain Agbozo also delivered a heartfelt tribute on behalf of the staff members. He shared some highlights that reflected the dedicated service and warm friendship of the retirees.  “You have dedicated most of your professional lives to serving the Community,” he noted. ‘It is with great pleasure and deep respect that we pay tribute to each of you today, acknowledging the invaluable contributions you have made’ and celebrating the values you exemplified throughout your service.
 
Dr William Deiyan Towah who spoke on behalf of the retirees expressed their gratitude for the privilege to serve the institution and the wider Community. “My colleagues and I are about to retire, having served our Community with dedication and commitment, guided by the values we hold dear.” He further expressed hope that the institution would continue to uphold the ideals for which it was founded.           
 
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Honourable Vice President Sengu Mohamed Koroma who extended sincere appreciation to all attendees and the organizing team.  “To the retirees, as you embark on this new chapter, we wish all of you the best in your retirement  – a time filled with joy, relaxation, and the pursuit of new adventures”, he said.
 
The event, held at Abuja Continental Hotel was filled with moments of reflection, laughter and celebration. Retirees were honoured with plaques and certificates of appreciation, while colleagues shared heartfelt memories and best wishes.
 
Members of the Court, staff and families of the retirees gathered to celebrate the careers and legacies of these four exceptional individuals. Their contributions will remain embedded in the history of the Court.

ECOWAS Court Honours Four Retiring Staff

Boko Haram: Zulum Meets Army, Naval, Air Force Chiefs in Abuja

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, held a crucial closed-door meeting with Nigeria’s top military leadership in Abuja on Thursday.

The meeting, which was held separately behind closed doors with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, was to deploy a renewed push for coordinated action against the insurgents.

Sources from the meeting revealed that the discussions centred on strengthening military operations in the Northeast, improving intelligence sharing, and addressing the recent surge in attacks by the terror group.

Governor Zulum had on Tuesday, during an expanded security meeting held in Maiduguri, lamented the recent surge in attacks by the terrorists on civilian and military facilities, calling for decisive action to avert the situation from getting out of control.

Zulum was accompanied by the senators representing Borno South, Mohammed Ali Ndume, Borno North, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan.

Others in the governor’s entourage include Mukhtar Betera Aliyu and Engr Bukar Talba, members of the House of Representatives, and Professor Usman Tar, Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security.

Boko Haram: Zulum Meets Army, Naval, Air Force Chiefs in Abuja