Malian Separatist Group Claims Gains, Alleges Expansion of Operations Across Key Cities

By: Zagazola Makama

The Front de libération de l’Azawad (FLN) has announced what it described as new battlefield gains in northern Mali, including the alleged capture of Kidal, while also claiming expanded operations toward Gao and other strategic locations.

In a series of statements released on social media, the group’s spokesperson, Mohamed Ould Ramdane, said FLN forces were advancing in the north and consolidating control over several localities.

He claimed that Kidal had fallen under the control of FLN fighters and that operations were ongoing in the direction of the city. He also alleged that an enemy helicopter had been shot down, though no details were provided on the aircraft type, location, or circumstances.

Ramdane further stated that several areas in Gao were now under FLN control, as fighting continued in multiple fronts across northern Mali.

In a notable political message, the spokesperson urged authorities in Burkina Faso and Niger both regional allies of Mali under a Sahelian defence arrangement to “distance themselves from the unfolding events in Mali,” suggesting possible regional diplomatic pressure linked to the conflict.

He also claimed that the group remained open to cooperation with any actor willing to support its stated objective of “the complete liberation of Azawad,” adding that the movement was prepared to work with partners, including in efforts to “overthrow the regime in Bamako,” which he described as “criminal.”

In a further escalation of rhetoric, Ramdane alleged that FLN intelligence indicated allied armed groups had taken control of “strategic zones in Bamako,” including the airport, the Kati military base, and the central city of Sévaré.

These claims could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report.

Malian Separatist Group Claims Gains, Alleges Expansion of Operations Across Key Cities

Troops Neutralise Terrorist, One Vigilante Injured in Sokoto

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised a suspected terrorist during a firefight in Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 12:10 a.m. on April 23 when troops of 8 Division Garrison, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Marnona, responded to intelligence on terrorist activities at Illela village.

The sources said the troops made contact with the assailants and engaged them in a gun battle.

“Following the exchange of fire, one terrorist was neutralised, while others fled the scene,” the sources said.

They added that a vigilante member who supported the operation sustained a gunshot wound during the encounter and was evacuated for medical attention.

According to the sources, troops have continued to dominate the general area to forestall further terrorist activities.

Troops Neutralise Terrorist, One Vigilante Injured in Sokoto

285 Graduate From the NOUN Maiduguri Centre

By: Bodunrin Kayode

285 students have graduated from the Maiduguri study centre of the National Open University (NOUN) last weekend.

The convocation ceremony which was conducted at the Baga road centre by the director Associate Prof Buba Shani was the largest so far in the history of the Borno centre.

Revealing this in a post convocation chat was the director of centre, Associate Prof Buba Shani who spoke with this reporter on the gains, achievements and the challenges associated with managing the only centre in Borno state.

He revealed that electricity supply from the national grid was the primary challenge he had to face headlong when he took charge adding that it was very obvious power supply affected the daily administration and the conducive nature of the environment for students to study.

To him, a study centre without constant electricity was a big minus on the very academics which the centre was created to support adding that they were very happy to be hooked up with the national grid now.

“But we have been able to get over it because the centre was not on the national grid but we are now connected to the national supplies after almost six years of not having supplies.

” And with support from the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and the NOUN alumni association, we now have a lighted compound where students can read even in the evenings if they wish to.” Said the director.

He said that since he took charge as head of management, the student population has increased from 600 to about 1,200 and they are still counting adding that inspite of the previous instability of the city, students now operate with peace of mind with the stability of the security within the city of Maiduguri.

Above all, Prof Shani noted that he was happy with the existing relationship within the staff and students in the centre, which is ensuring that their studies are smooth.

Restriction of law from NYSC

On restriction of some courses from the National Youth Service Corp (NYSC), he hinted that no course is suffering from that syndrome.

” Whatever applies to the centre applies to the whole country and it is not just in the Maiduguri centre alone.

” But I must tell you that the undergraduate course for law has been scrapped for now and this is a decision of the National Universities Commission (NUC).

“Sadly, the previous management did not do much about ensuring that the course is properly situated and offering it doesn’t become a challenge during their time.

“However, we admit only post graduate courses in law and related courses for now. We would continue to push to get to our expected end at all cost concerning the undergraduate law program ” he concluded.

The Maiduguri study centre has operated for about 22 years defying all the threats of the lingering insurgency in Borno State.

285 Graduate From the NOUN Maiduguri Centre