News
At the Abuja International Carnival, 2024 Borno contingent scoops second overall and several benchmark prices
At the Abuja International Carnival, 2024 Borno contingent scoops second overall and several benchmark prices
By: Sam Kayode
The Borno State culture delegation has won the second overall best award in the just concluded Abuja international carnival 2024.
A statement from the commissioner of information in Borno state Prof Usman Tar stated that the 60 man troop which participated at the 2024 Abuja International Carnival held on 21-25 November 2024 did so along participants from Nigeria, Africa and overseas.
The Abuja Carnival comprised several benchmark activities which included opening ceremony, command performance, street march, fashion parade, and culinary contest.
The Borno contingent presented the cultural/historical artifacts of Borno during the carnival, and participated actively in all the keenly contested events.
“Team Borno swept the second overall award, next to Rivers State. After a very competitive exercise.
“The Borno team won the following awards: 2nd Overall Best Carnival King Award, after Rivers, 2nd Best in International Food Competition Award. 2nd Best in Cultural Night Events Award.
“2nd Best carnival Queen Award. 2nd Best carnival costumes Award. 3rd Best Indigenous Nigeria Fashion parade Award. 3rd Best Carnival Float Award and 2nd Overall Best State Award.” Said Tar
Meanwhile, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima who graced the opening ceremony, showed his appreciation to the Borno Team for participating in the culture show.
Senator Shettima praised Borno State Governor Prof Babagana Zulum for his investment in reinvigorating Borno’s rich culture.
Similarly, the Minister for Culture and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa, praised the Borno Team for putting up a rich show during the carnival.
As Borno State emerges from a decade-long insurgency, its participation in National Culture Festivals demonstrates the resilience and determination to overcome its challenges and showcase the state’s deep history and splendour in the national culture events.
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof Usman Tar in his remarks stated that: “Borno’s 25 year development plan projects cultural renaissance and social reorientation as a pillar of our recovery and sustainable development under the watch of the Executive Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum.
“What we are witnessing is a bold step to reposition our state in the national cultural map, as a strong and active constituent part of the Nigerian federation.
At the Abuja International Carnival, 2024 Borno contingent scoops second overall and several benchmark prices
News
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
News
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
News
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
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