News
Gombe Appeals for Deployment of More Civil Defence to Combat Farmers/Herders Clashes
Gombe Appeals for Deployment of More Civil Defence to Combat Farmers/Herders Clashes
By: Michael Mike
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya has appealed to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to deploy more personnel to the state to help manage the incessant farmers/herders clashes.
The call was made on Tuesday during his visit to the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Audi, at the Corps’ National Headquarters in Abuja.
According to a statement on Tuesday in Abuja by the Corps Public Relations Officer, Mr Babawale Afolabi, Yahaya said there was a need for more presence of the Corps to help control farmers/ herders clashes and improve security in schools as well as ensure general security of lives and property in Gombe State.
The governor specifically asked for the deployment of the Agro Rangers Unit and general duty operatives to assist in the control of farmers/clashes among other forms of insecurity bedevilling the State.
He also expressed hope that the presence of the Agro Rangers personnel who are specifically trained to attend to such complex issues of farmers and herders conflict would save the state from such menace towards the end of October as the rains cease.
The governor said: “The demand for additional deployment of Agro Rangers personnel before October ends is to avert incidence of clashes as the movement of cattle rearers usually commence at that period and the personnel will be of immense benefits to control clashes and mediate conflict if any.”
He expressed optimism that if the security of lives and property was achieved there would be food security.
He however decried the high rate of out-of-school children especially girl-child which he attributed to the closure of almost all boarding schools for girls in the state except one, and further solicited the assistance of the Corps to reverse the situation by ensuring a safe and secure environment for learning.
Responding, the CG assured him of his agency’s cooperation and collaboration, promising that his request would be attended to upon the completion of the ongoing quarterly training of Agro Rangers personnel.
He explained that the Agro Rangers Unit had resolved more than 1,000 cases nationwide, adding that as a special unit, Agro Rangers provide security for farmers and agro-allied investments.
Audi added that as a lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and Infrastructure, his administration would respond to the protection of schools in Gombe State under the Safe Schools Project whose Headquarters is housed by the Corps.
Gombe Appeals for Deployment of More Civil Defence to Combat Farmers/Herders Clashes
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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