Three Hunters Killed in Bandit Attack in Zamfaral

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 1 Brigade under Operation Fansan Yamma have responded to a terrorist attack in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where three local hunters were killed.

Security sources told Zagazola that the incident occurred at about 4:12 p.m. on April 25, when troops deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wanke, in collaboration with local vigilantes, received a report of armed bandits’ activities at Gidan Gabi village.

According to the sources, the troops swiftly mobilised to the area and pursued the fleeing attackers, but their advance was impeded by a river obstacle, allowing the assailants to escape.

The sources said that three hunters were killed during the attack, while an unspecified number of cattle were rustled by the bandits.

Efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend the perpetrators, while security presence has been intensified in the area to prevent further attacks.

Three Hunters Killed in Bandit Attack in Zamfara

Troops, DSS arrest suspected IPOB/ESN member in Enugu raid

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), have arrested a suspected member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), during a raid in Enugu State.

Security sources told Zagazola that the operation was carried out on April 25 at about 6:20 p.m. by troops of 82 Division Garrison, 103 Battalion and 197 Special Forces Battalion.

The sources said the joint team conducted the raid at Obinofia Ndiagu village, where one suspected IPOB/ESN operative was apprehended.

According to the sources, three mobile phones were recovered from the suspect during the operation.

They added that the suspect and recovered items are currently in the custody of the 82 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and necessary action.

The sources noted that the operation is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in the South-East.

Troops, DSS arrest suspected IPOB/ESN member in Enugu raid

UNESCO, CWAY Group Partner to Empower Corps Members on Reproductive Health, Life Skills

By: Michael Mike

A strategic collaboration between UNESCO and the CWAY Group is equipping National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members with critical knowledge on sexual and reproductive health, life planning, and community development.

The initiative, unveiled during an orientation programme, is part of a broader social responsibility effort aimed at reducing risky behaviours among young people while preparing them to become productive contributors to Nigeria’s development.

Speaking at the event, the National Project Officer and Head of Education Sector a.i with UNESCO, Mr. Adeyemi Oladeji explained that the intervention focuses on providing early and accurate information to corps members, particularly during their three-week orientation camp, a period often associated with exposure to risky sexual behaviour.

“This is a preventive approach,” he said. “If young people are properly informed early, they are more likely to make responsible decisions that will not derail their life goals.”

The programme addresses key issues such as teenage pregnancy, gender-based violence, HIV prevention, and life skills development. It is also designed to help young people align their personal ambitions with national development goals, ultimately contributing to Nigeria’s demographic dividend.

A key component of the initiative is the training of selected corps members under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and HIV Community Development Service (CDS) groups as master trainers. These trained volunteers will extend the campaign beyond schools by engaging out-of-school youths, particularly those in informal sectors such as mechanics, barbers, and hairdressers.

According to Oladeji, out-of-school youths remain among the most vulnerable due to limited access to accurate information and social support systems.

“Most interventions target young people in formal education, but those outside the school system are often neglected despite being highly vulnerable,” he noted.

The trained corps members will conduct community outreach programmes, peer education sessions, and sensitisation campaigns, especially in underserved areas where access to government services is limited. The initiative also emphasizes peer-to-peer education, recognizing that young people are more likely to confide in and learn from their peers.

In addition, the programme integrates voluntary HIV testing services in partnership with health organisations, encouraging corps members to know their status and adopt healthier lifestyles.

“If you know your status, you can take control of your health—whether it means staying negative or managing a positive status effectively,” Oladeji added.

Beyond the camps, the intervention extends to schools and communities. Teachers are being trained to deliver Family Life and HIV Education, while community and religious leaders are being engaged to support the reintegration of out-of-school children, particularly girls affected by early pregnancy or economic hardship.

The initiative is currently being implemented in several states, including Lagos, Ogun, Enugu, and the Federal Capital Territory, in collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps, the Federal Ministry of Youth, and the Federal Ministry of Education.

Early feedback indicates strong interest among corps members, many of whom have volunteered to participate as peer educators and community influencers.

Organisers described the response as “encouraging,” noting that participants are eager to make meaningful impact during their service year and beyond.

“This is just the beginning,” Oladeji said. “We are building a generation of informed, responsible young people who can influence others and drive positive change in their communities.”

UNESCO, CWAY Group Partner to Empower Corps Members on Reproductive Health, Life Skills