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Federal min of environment move staff to maiduguri to mitigate flood effect
Federal min of environment move staff to maiduguri to mitigate flood effect
By: Bodunrin Kayode
The Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas has announced the deployment of staff to Maiduguri to address pollution and other environmental challenges.
Abbas made this known over the weekend while consoling Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, when he led a delegation of heads of relevant agencies in the Ministry on an assessment visit to Maiduguri.
Abbas said the ministry has prepared for the aftermath of Alau Dam flood disaster in Maiduguri with the deployment of staff of relevant agencies to Borno.
“There are cases of pollution once you have this type of flood as there’s going to be a lot of pollutants that will come.
“A team will come to join teams in Borno to address the issues. We are bringing all the resources of the ministry to Borno to stay and address the aftermath of this flood.
“That’s why we came with all those directly involved, particularly our Director of Pollution Management, ” Abbas said.
He commended Gov. Babagana Zulum for the leadership being exhibited in handling the catastrophic incident, adding that with a reliable partner like Zulum, the challenges would be properly handled.
“The tragic loss of lives, displacement of thousands of families as well as the destruction of homes, farmlands and critical infrastructure have no doubt, caused much hardship on the government and people of Borno.
“As we mourn the unfortunate event, we must also focus on the urgent need for coordinated action to mitigate the effects of this disaster.
“The ministry remains fully committed to supporting Borno in its recovery efforts, both in the immediate response and in long-term environmental sustainability planning.
“I have directed all agencies under the ministry to work closely with the relevant state agencies in the State to provide the necessary technical and logistical support in addressing the challenges posed by this unfortunate event,” Abbas added.
In his response, Zulum lauded the ministry for its show of concern and called for sustainable solutions to the issue of the dam and desertification facing the state.
Zulum also expressed concern over the menace of elephants destroying farmlands in some local governments, soliciting the minister’s support in addressing the problem.
He assured the minister of his administration’s support in addressing the environmental challenges facing the state.
Federal min of environment move staff to maiduguri to mitigate flood effect
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
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
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
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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