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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 intercept 11 youths with donkeys during patrol in Borno

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Troops intercept 11 youths with donkeys during patrol in Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 68 Battalion have intercepted 11 youths during a routine patrol in Mallam Fatori area of Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State.

Security sources said the interception occurred along the Bulagana–Cheisa axis on April 2 during ongoing clearance operations in the area.

According to the sources, the individuals were found moving in the area with 12 donkeys when they were stopped and briefly interrogated by troops.

The sources added that the youths were later handed over, alongside the animals, to relevant authorities in a neighbouring country for further necessary action.

The military said the patrol was part of sustained efforts to maintain security dominance and prevent exploitation of border communities by criminal elements.

Troops intercept 11 youths with donkeys during patrol in Borno

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Troops recover ammunition, logistics items in Kwara patrol operation

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Troops recover ammunition, logistics items in Kwara patrol operation

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 22 Brigade have recovered ammunition and other logistics items during a fighting patrol in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

A security source disclosed that the operation was conducted at about 4:00 p.m. on April 2 at Daban Lema, where troops of the brigade, operating from the Patrol Base, encountered signs of suspected terrorist activities in a deserted location.

According to the source, the troops immediately carried out exploitation of the area, leading to the recovery of four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and one empty PKT ammunition belt link.

Other items recovered include four mobile phones, two head warmers, two small solar panels, and assorted repair tools believed to have been used by the suspected terrorists.

The source added that the recovery indicates the presence and movement of suspected criminal elements within the area, noting that troops have intensified surveillance and patrols to deny them freedom of action.

Troops recover ammunition, logistics items in Kwara patrol operation

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Troops foil attack by Criminal Youths, rescue victims, arrest suspects in plateau

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Troops foil attack by Criminal Youths, rescue victims, arrest suspects in plateau

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), have foiled an attack on residents at Dutse Uku in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

A security source said the troops responded swiftly to a report of sporadic gunshots in the area at about 11:50 p.m. on April 2.

According to the source, upon arrival at the scene, the suspected criminals fled, abandoning their operation due to the prompt intervention of the troops.

He said the troops rescued two victims who sustained gunshot wounds during the incident and immediately evacuated them to a hospital for medical attention.

The source further disclosed that two suspects, dressed in black attire, were arrested at the scene.

Items recovered from the suspects include a cutlass and a knife.

He added that the suspects are currently in military custody and undergoing preliminary investigation, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the group.

Zagazola report that despite heightened security, there has been report of pocket of attacks in some communities.

The source reassured residents of the military’s commitment to protecting lives and property and urged the public to continue providing timely information to security agencies.

Troops foil attack by Criminal Youths, rescue victims, arrest suspects in plateau

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