News
FG to Commission multi-billion Naira projects in Ondo, Bayelsa

FG to Commission multi-billion Naira projects in Ondo, Bayelsa
By: Michael Mike
Two major projects worth over N32 billion are to be commissioned in the oil rich Niger Delta region, the Ministry of Niger Delta Development has disclosed.
The commissioning which will be carried out by the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Abubakar Momoh are located in Bayelsa and Ondo States.
According to a statement by the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister, Mr. John Mayaki, the projects include the 25.753 kilometres Ogbia-Nembe Road and Bridges, worth N24.4 billion and represents a lifeline for the long-isolated oil-producing communities, traversing swampy terrains.
The project, according to minister was constructed in collaboration with Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria Ltd (SPDC).
The statement quoted the minister as saying that the “infrastructure not only establishes a vital connection between Nembe and the nation. It also promises to ignite economic prosperity across the region.
“This project cost the sum of N24,421,857,276.16 (Twenty – Four Billion, Four Hundred and Twenty – One Million, Eight Hundred and Fifty – Seven Thousand, Two Hundred and Seventy-Six Naira, Sixteen kobo), and the scope is 25.753 km asphalt pavement single carriage way; 9.15 km of pre-fabricated vertical drains on the swamp, and Seven bridges.
“There’s no denying that the completion of this road will revolutionize transportation, significantly reducing travel time and stimulating development across 14 communities.”
The second project, the Okitipupa Electricity Project in Ondo State, the minister said holds immense promise in brightening the lives of thousands across five local government areas.
He said, “We are elated by this significant achievement, as reliable electricity access will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, elevate living standards, and pave the way for a more promising future.”
The cost of the project is N8, 152,952,040.57 (Eight Billion, One Hundred and Fifty – Two Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty – Two Thousand, Forty Naira, Fifty – Seven Kobo) while the scope of the project include the construction of 45km 132 KV feeder line from Omotosho to Okitipupa; the construction of 2 nos 30/40 MVA 132/33KV Injection substations with breakers gantry and substation automation; the construction of 3 Bedroom semi-detached bungalow as service quarters; the provision of 2 x 60 MVA, 132/33KV transformer at Okitipupa Injection Substation; the rehabilitation of 33 km 33/11 KV transmission from Okitipupa – Igbokoda – Ubgbonla and environs; and the construction of 1km rigid pavement with drains.
FG to Commission multi-billion Naira projects in Ondo, Bayelsa
News
Nigerian Army troops rescue eight kidnapped victims, neutralize one kidnapper at Kogi-Enugu border

Nigerian Army troops rescue eight kidnapped victims, neutralize one kidnapper at Kogi-Enugu border
By: Zagazola Makama
Nigerian Army troops and other joint security agencies acting on credible intelligence stormed a kidnappers’ den around Isi River, located at the boundary between Nokwa Community in Kogi State and Nimbo in Enugu State, on May 23, 2025, at about 2:00 p.m., rescuing eight kidnapped victims and neutralizing one suspected kidnapper.
The troops engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, forcing them to flee the scene. The rescued victims, who were unharmed, include:
Ugwuoke Victor Chidera (male) of Amaebo Ovoko, Asogwa Sochima (male) of Umuekada Ovoko, Igboeze South LGA, Calister Ezema (female) of Ebugwu Ibagwa Ani, Ezugwu Charity (female) of Mgboko Aku, Igbo Etiti LGA, Ezugwu Kenneth (male) of Mgboko Aku, Ike Nnamdi (male) of Achom Alunor and Francis Okoro (male) and Ikenna Okeagu (male), both of Abi in Uzuwani LGA.
The troops have intensified Operations in the general area.
Nigerian Army troops rescue eight kidnapped victims, neutralize one kidnapper at Kogi-Enugu border
News
Youths break peace accord in Taraba, trigger deadly reprisal attacks despite repeated warnings

Youths break peace accord in Taraba, trigger deadly reprisal attacks despite repeated warnings
By: Zagazola Makama
Barely weeks after security forces brokered a peace accord between farmers and herders in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, renewed violence has broken out, triggered by actions that have now led to death, destruction and growing instability in the region.
Zagazola Makama was reliably informed by intelligence sources that despite the security agencies holding three separate meetings with youth and community leaders where appeals for restraint and peaceful coexistence were passionately made, local youths in Badanwa reportedly violated the terms of the agreement by launching attacks on Fulani herders grazing near their farms.
The sources said that the troops deployed under Operation Lafiyan Jamaa responded swiftly to a distress call at about 2:50 p.m. on Friday, May 23. Upon arrival, the troops discovered that some fleeing Fulani herders had retaliated in panic, killing two locals believed to be from Munga Lelau village. The victims, according to sources, were attacked with machetes during the chaos and confusion that ensued.
The violence spiraled further when troops, while pursuing leads into the unfolding crisis, encountered armed bandits burning houses in Munga Lelau. In the exchange of fire, troops neutralised two of the bandits and recovered a dane gun, a cell phone, a fabricated pistol, and four cartridges. Further searches around Munga Doso village led to more arms recovery.
The crisis, according to security officials, could have been avoided if community leaders had been obeyed and the peace agreement upheld.
“You cannot go and attack people grazing near your village and expect them not to retaliate. That is the reality we are dealing with. We had already put a framework in place for dialogue and monitoring,”
The resurgence of hostilities was a a result of a reckless mob action and the failure of some community elements to honour peace initiatives facilitated by security agencies. Just because you see a Fulani man with his livestock, you the. Pick up sticks, cutlass and other weapons and began shouting hochebe hey hochebe hey. And now that it has become bad, you are calling on the security agencies to defend you,” a senior security officer who spoke on condition of anonymity said.
Security forces have since intensified patrols in the general area to forestall further escalation. However, the general situation remains volatile, with fresh tensions threatening to undo months of painstaking confidence-building efforts.
In the wake of these developments, security authorities have suggested that the local government consider imposing a curfew in the affected areas as a short-term measure to prevent further reprisal attacks and restore normalcy.
“It’s time to go beyond warnings. There must be consequences for those who break peace accords or act as enablers of violence. No community can progress in a state of perpetual suspicion and provocation,” said Bala Ibrahim, a conflict resolution expert based in Jalingo.
Zagazola report that for now, the military and other security agencies have continue to dominate the general area with strategic patrols. But the challenge ahead is steep: rebuilding broken trust, enforcing accountability, and ensuring that peace is not just signed but sincerely upheld.
Youths break peace accord in Taraba, trigger deadly reprisal attacks despite repeated warnings
News
Zulum begins 100-bed hospital, market complex in Dikwa

Zulum begins 100-bed hospital, market complex in Dikwa
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has commenced the construction of a new 100-bed capacity general hospital and a market complex in Dikwa.
Zulum assessed the proposed project site on Thursday and directed that work should begin immediately.
The new hospital will include features such as modern medical equipment and specialised units to address the various health challenges faced by the community.

When completed, the hospital will offer comprehensive medical services, such as emergency care, maternal health, and outpatient services, to the residents of Dikwa and surrounding communities.
According to the governor, projects are part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to restore stability, improve healthcare, and boost economic activities in places affected by the over one decade old insurgency.
Speaking separately, Zulum charged the contractors to ensure compliance with all engineering specifications.

The Governor was accompanied by a member of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba, a member representing Dikwa at the State House of Assembly; Zakariya Mohammed, Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mai Mele; Commissioner for Agriculture, Engr Bawu Musami; Permanent Secretary of Government House, Barr. Mustapha Ali Busuguma, among many senior officials.
Zulum begins 100-bed hospital, market complex in Dikwa
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