Passenger Abducted in Katsina-Ala–Takum Boundary Attack in Benue

By: Zagazola Makama

Armed men have abducted a passenger from a commercial vehicle along the Katsina-Ala–Takum road, Benue State.

Zagazola Makama gathered that the incident occurred at about 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, when the Toyota Carina II, with registration number KLD 108 AA, was heading to Katsina-Ala from Takum, Taraba State, with seven passengers onboard.

At Tsede Village, which lies on the boundary between Katsina-Ala and Takum, the gunmen blocked the road, robbed the occupants, and whisked away one passenger later identified as NYSC member Saadu Dauda from Zamfara State.

His identity was confirmed through a corps member ID card found in his bag left in the vehicle.

Security operatives have launched a coordinated operation to track the assailants and rescue the victim.
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Transcorp Hilton Abuja Appoints New General Manager

By: Michael Mike

The Management of Transcorp Hilton Abuja has appointed Mr. Martin Zarybnicky, as the new General Manager. His appointment took effect on August 1st 2025.

This was disclosed in a statement made available at the weekend by the eCommerce Manager, Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Ijeoma Osuji.

According to the statement, Martin brings over 30 years of global hospitality experience to the role, having held leadership positions at international hotel brands across EMEA and APAC, including tenures in Thailand, Egypt and Russia. The new role marks Martin’s return to Hilton, where he previously served as General Manager at Hilton Sharm Waterfalls Resort.

Speaking on the latest development, thr Managing Director/CEO Transcorp Hotels Plc, Mrs. Uzo Oshogwe, said: “We are delighted to welcome Martin Zarybincky to the Transcorp Hotels family. His wealth of international experience brings fresh perspectives that will enrich our culture and elevate the guest experience we are known for. We look forward to supporting him as he settles into his new role and to the impact his leadership will bring in driving excellence for our guests.”

A seasoned hotelier, Martin has a strong track record in driving operational excellence, enhancing guest satisfaction, leading major refurbishments, and repositioning hotels for long-term commercial success. His leadership has earned multiple industry awards and recognition across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.

Andreas Lackner, Vice President, Operations, Sub-Saharan Africa & Indian Ocean, Hilton, said: “Martin brings a wealth of global hospitality experience and a strong history of impactful leadership to his new role. His background across diverse markets and brands makes him an excellent fit for Transcorp Hilton Abuja, and we are pleased to welcome him back to Hilton.”

In his new role, Martin will oversee all aspects of hotel operations, driving strategic growth, operational efficiency, and an elevated guest experience in line with Hilton’s standards of excellence.

“Nigeria remains a leading hub for inclusive growth across Africa. At Transcorp Hilton Abuja, we are committed to supporting the development of hospitality in this vibrant market. I am proud to be part of the amazing team here, and together, we are eager to continuously showcase the warmth and excellence of genuine Nigerian hospitality,” said Zarybnicky.

Located in Abuja’s commercial district, Transcorp Hilton Abuja is a 668-room iconic property that has welcomed guests since 1987. As one of the largest hotels in sub-Saharan Africa, it remains a national landmark, which is owned by Transcorp Hotels Plc and managed by Hilton under the Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand.

Transcorp Hilton Abuja Appoints New General Manager

Security forces Arrest Five, Rescue SSG Zamfara’s Family from Abductors

By: Zagazola Makama

Security forces in Zamfara have rescued family members of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Malam Mohammed Abubakar Nakwada, who were abducted on July 27.

Zagazola Makama learnt that the victims, Sadiya Nakwada, Aisha Nakwada, and Abubakar Dan Fulani were rescued following a joint operation by the Zamfara State Police Command’s tactical teams and the Force Intelligence Department’s Special Tactical Squad (FID STS) from Force Headquarters, Abuja.

Five suspects were arrested in connection with the case. They are Hamza Umar, Abubakar Abdullahi, Aisha Umar, Mohammed Ibrahim, and Igeh Mohammed, all residents of Mareri area in Damba District, Gusau LGA.

Sources said the victims have been taken to a Hospital in Gusau for medical attention, and will be reunited with their family soon.

Security forces Arrest Five, Rescue SSG Zamfara’s Family from Abductors