News
Better Days for the Elderly as Nana Kashim unveils Renewed Hope initiative

Better Days for the Elderly as Nana Kashim unveils Renewed Hope initiative
….. Unveils Economy Empowerment and Health Support Scheme for elderly in Borno
By: Our Reporter
The Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIES) borne out of commitment to welfare of the elderly citizens is aimed at providing economic empowerment and healthcare services to the elderly across all the states of the federation including the FCT. The targeted beneficiaries are the elderly from the age of 65 and above, as well as the physically challenged.
Unveiling the Scheme at the Cyprian Ekwensi center for arts and culture Garki abuja on the 21st of December the National Chairman and First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu represented by the National Vice chairman and wife of the vice president Hajiya Nana Shettima stated that the initiative has earmarked Nine hundred and Fifty Million Naira to be shared to the beneficiaries. Each state, according to Hajiya Nana shettima, is allocated twenty-five million Naira for onward distribution. She urged the senior citizens to embrace life to the fullest, prioritizing their health and bond with loved ones.

Hajiya Nana Shettima emphasized that in the spirit of this season which is a time of joy and comfort ,the administration of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu seeks for your continued support and prayers as the nation look forward to better days ahead.
During the symbolic presentation, the wife of the vice president announced that Beneficiaries are to take home 100,000 Naira to assist them during the festive period .
In an opening remarks the Minister for State FCT Dr Mariya Mahmoud Bunure said the Mission of the Renewed Hope Initiative is not just about distributing material items,it is also about fostering a sense of community, compassion and respect for our elders, youths, girl child and widows.
The minister said the distribution by the First Lady is a gesture that reflects her commitment to ensuring the comfort and well-being of those who have paved the way for us.
Dr Mariya added that as we hand out these items, let us also take a moment to engage with our elders, listen to their stories, and learn from their rich tapestry of life experiences.
High point of the event was interactive session with the elderly and an interview by a physically challenged Reporter from a national broadcast station by wife of the vice president Hajiya Nana Shettima aside the symbolic presentation of cash and gift items.
The Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) for the FCTA is coordinated by the mandate secretary women affairs secretariat Mrs Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi.
Better Days for the Elderly as Nana Kashim unveils Renewed Hope initiative
News
Russia Strengthens Strategic Ties with Sahel States Amid Geopolitical Shifts

Russia Strengthens Strategic Ties with Sahel States Amid Geopolitical Shifts
By: Zagazola Makama
Russia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, as Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hosted his counterparts from the three Sahel states in Moscow. The high-level meeting signals deepening cooperation in security, economic development, and diplomatic coordination, amid shifting global alliances and the growing influence of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
The discussions, held in a quadrilateral format for the first time, focused on enhancing military collaboration, investment opportunities, and regional security strategies. Lavrov welcomed the delegation, emphasizing Russia’s support for the sovereignty of the three nations as they seek to assert independence in their policymaking and security frameworks.
“We appreciate the determination of your countries to build a new regional security architecture based on your own strengths while remaining open to mutually beneficial cooperation,” Lavrov said. He commended the “dynamic integration” efforts within the AES and highlighted ongoing projects in trade, finance, infrastructure, and human resource development.
The visit comes amid rising geopolitical tensions and the Sahel states’ increasing shift away from Western partnerships. Following military takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, the three countries have strengthened ties with Russia, particularly in military cooperation and counterterrorism efforts. They have also distanced themselves from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), forming the AES as a regional bloc focused on collective security and economic cooperation.
Lavrov noted that Russia is ready to support the AES beyond bilateral engagements, stating that collaboration would extend to international platforms, including the Russia-Africa Forum. The next ministerial meeting of the forum is expected to take place in Africa later this year, ahead of the 2026 Russia-Africa Summit.
In his remarks, Mali’s Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening ties with Russia, underscoring the importance of strategic alliances in addressing security and development challenges.
The meeting marks a new phase in Russia’s engagement with Africa, particularly in regions seeking alternative partnerships. As the global political landscape evolves, the AES-Russia partnership is expected to influence security dynamics and economic cooperation in the Sahel and beyond.
Russia Strengthens Strategic Ties with Sahel States Amid Geopolitical Shifts
News
Man Killed in Accidental Shooting During Joint Security Operation in Adamawa

Man Killed in Accidental Shooting During Joint Security Operation in Adamawa
By: Zagazola Makama
A tragic incident occurred on April 3, 2025, during a joint security operation in Girei Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State.
The operation, which involved personnel from the Police, Military, Department of State Security Services (DSS), and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), aimed to raid criminal hideouts in the area.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that during the operation, one of the security personnel accidentally discharged their firearm, striking 21-year-old Bara Adamu of Wuro Bulama, Girei LGA.
The victim was immediately rushed to Specialist Hospital for medical attention but was sadly confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
Man Killed in Accidental Shooting During Joint Security Operation in Adamawa
Crime
Armed Bandits Kill One in Attack on Commercial Vehicle in Sokoto

Armed Bandits Kill One in Attack on Commercial Vehicle in Sokoto
By: Zagazola Makama
On April 3, 2025, at approximately 1130 hours, a group of armed bandits riding motorcycles, opened fire on a commercial vehicle traveling from Kebbi to Sokoto.
The attack resulted in the death of one Dan Gande Usman, who was shot in the head. The victim succumbed to his injuries while being transported to the hospital.
In response to the attack, troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA were deployed to the area to ensure sanity.
Armed Bandits Kill One in Attack on Commercial Vehicle in Sokoto
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