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British High Commission Laments Low Attendance in School of Children with Disabilities

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British High Commission Laments Low Attendance in School of Children with Disabilities

By: Michael Mike

The British High Commission has lamented the low attendance of children with disabilities in school in Nigeria.

The Acting British High Commissioner, Gill Atkinson gave the lamentation while hosting a gathering of members of Nigeria’s disability rights community and their advocates as well as representatives of the diplomatic community in Abuja.

He said: “It is particularly shocking that it is estimated that only 12% of children with disabilities are in education. I know from my own experience that people with disabilities can and do make a full contribution to society – I hope that by speaking out I can help make a positive impact in Nigeria.

The envoy added that: “As I prepare to leave Nigeria, it was a priority for me that the final event I host should be one that brings the spotlight onto the challenges faced by the disabled community in Nigeria. I live with a disability myself and I know that, even with a good employer and a strong legal framework, it can be extremely challenging for people with disabilities to fulfil their capabilities and potential.”

He said: “While legal developments are part of the necessary change, it is also vital that this is mirrored by culture and attitude changes too.”

The theme for the event was the progressing the SDGs with and for persons with disabilities – aligning with International Day’s theme this year. Attendees were treated to panel discussions which included key reflections from Mr James Lalu, the Executive Secretary to the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities and Mr Jake Epelle, CEO to TAF Africa alongside a performance by the Deaf Can Dance group.

The forum was also an opportunity to spotlight women leaders in the disability space, and to learn about the particular Health and Social are challenges faced by women living with disabilities in Nigeria which is especially relevant during 16 Days of Activism.

It is no secret that there are no accurate figures on disability in Nigeria, but millions of people have disabilities. It is estimated that unemployment rates are over 60% against a national rate of 21.5% and that only 12% of children are in education compared with 57% for those without disabilities.

Women with disabilities are also up to four times more likely than other women to experience violence. The Government of Nigeria has ratified the United Nation Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities UNCRPD and passed the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in 2018. In 2015, the Government also passed the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.

British High Commission Laments Low Attendance in School of Children with Disabilities

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Troops Ambush Terrorist Logistics Suppliers, Recover Items in Borno

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Troops Ambush Terrorist Logistics Suppliers, Recover Items in Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have foiled an attempt by suspected terrorist logistics suppliers along the Ngoshe–Ashigashiya road in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

Security sources said the troops of 82 Division Task Force Battalion, deployed at Ngoshe, laid an ambush at a known crossing point along the route at about 2:20 a.m. on April 24.

The sources said the troops made contact with suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP logistics suppliers conveying items to terrorist elements and engaged them with disciplined fire.

The suspects were forced to abandon the items and fled in disarray.

Items recovered during exploitation of the area include 10 pairs of women’s slippers, 28 sachets of 500g salt, 39 sachets of powdered milk, a motorcycle tube, a pair of joggers, two pieces of clothing materials measuring 10 yards each, two one-litre containers of engine oil and a black shirt.

The sources said no casualty was recorded on the side of the troops, while casualties on the part of the fleeing suspects could not be immediately ascertained.

They added that the troops returned to base at about 6:00 a.m. after completing the operation.

According to the sources, the general security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and combat efficiency remain high.

Troops Ambush Terrorist Logistics Suppliers, Recover Items in Borno

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Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

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Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.

Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.

On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.

The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.

Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.

One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.

No military equipment was lost during the operation.

Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.

Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.

Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

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Troops Neutralise ISWAP Shura Member Abu Jirir in Yobe

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Troops Neutralise ISWAP Shura Member Abu Jirir in Yobe

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have neutralised a prominent member of the ISWAP Shura Council during an operation in Yobe State.

Security sources said the development was confirmed at about 6:12 p.m. on April 22 following intelligence reports that the senior terrorist figure, identified as Abu Jarir, was eliminated by troops in the Babangida area.

According to the sources, the neutralisation is considered a significant blow to the terrorist leadership structure in the Lake Chad region.

The sources further disclosed that the overall ISWAP commander in the Lake Chad axis, identified as Ba Shuwa, reportedly dispatched a team to recover the body of the slain commander on the same day.

The search party was said to have been sighted moving on about 12 motorcycles around the Aljanna Jaule area.

Further details on the operation are expected as exploitation continues.

Troops Neutralise ISWAP Shura Member Abu Jirir in Yobe

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