NSCDC Arrests 12 Suspected Vandals in FCT during Sallah Holiday

By: Michael Mike

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC) has arrested 12 suspected vandals at different locations within the federal capital territory during the sallah holiday.

Briefing reporters on Tuesday in Abuja, the NSCDC Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commander, Dr. Olusola Odumosu said the
arrest was made possible by the Tactical Squad of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure of the FCT Command who were on routine patrol during the festival to ensure safety of lives and properties in the Federal Capital City.

Odumosu said the suspects are Istifani Stephen, 43 years; Samson Danladi, 29; and Yakubu Thankgod, 35; Barnabas Sobok, 25; Zayyanu Muhammad, 21 years;

Others are Sani Wakili, 55 years; Usman Dankastina, 38 years; Abdulahi Saidu, 31; Ibrahim Haruna, 32; Sambo Abraham, 34: Umar Suleiman; Musa Ibrahim, 20

He noted that exhibits recovered from them include armoured cables, telecommunication masts accessories, three shoves, three dagger, an axe, pieces of galvanized iron rods and billboards, among others.

Commenting on the arrest, Odumosu, said the command was determine to bring to an end the rascality of vandals in the FCT.

He said: “You know, these criminals take advantage of festive season to perpetrate their heinous acts, we are not unaware of their tactics, that is reason we manned tighter surveillance during celebration period to beat them at their game

“It is disheartening that the Federal Government and the FCT Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike, are practically demonstrating their own part by providing the citizenry with the essential facilities to make life meaningful and here we have some unscrupulous elements busy Vandalizing this National Assets for their selfish interests, this must have to stop.”

Odumosu maintained that the FCT Command is poised to go all out come rain or shine to provide protection for all Critical National Assets and Infrastructure under their purview.

He said: “We are here to serve our father’s land, we have the responsibility to protect manhole covers, telecommunication masts and their accessories, water pipelines and other Critical National Assets provided by government to make life meaningful for the people of the FCT and we cannot renege in our efforts to actualize these all important National assignment.”

He however warned criminally minded elements to desist from sabotaging the efforts of the government or be ready to face the full weight of the law adding that disobedience to the law especially theft and vandalism of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure will not be treated with levity when caught.

The FCT Commandant appealed to FCT residents to assists the Corps with vital intelligence information to help them deliver on their mandate.

NSCDC Arrests 12 Suspected Vandals in FCT during Sallah Holiday

Youths Take the Lead: Over 1,000 Students to Convene in Maiduguri for High-Level Peacebuilding Summit

By Our Reporter

Maiduguri, Borno State — In a bold step towards ending violent extremism and fostering sustainable peace in Northeast Nigeria, the Kalthum Foundation for Peace (KFP), in collaboration with the Network of Civil Society Organisations Borno State (NECSOB) and the Borno Youth Parliament, will host a groundbreaking one-day multi-sectoral engagement focused on countering violent extremism, terrorism, and promoting peace.

The event, which will hold on June 28, 2025, at the prestigious Indimi Hall, University of Maiduguri, is expected to bring together more than 1,000 students and youths from Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. It is strategically designed to empower the younger generation with practical tools for community engagement, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding — key elements of the Counter-Insurgency (COIN) strategy.

Themed “Countering Violent Extremism, Terrorism, and Peacebuilding: A Youth-Driven Multi-Sectoral Dialogue,” the summit will serve as a melting pot of ideas, collaboration, and inclusive engagement between young people, security agencies, traditional rulers, academia, and civil society leaders.

High-profile dignitaries are expected to grace the occasion, including the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour. Also expected is the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as Distinguished Guest of Honour. Their presence highlights the strategic importance of youth inclusion in peace and security efforts.

Other notable guests include the Shehu of Borno, HRH Dr. Abubakar ibn Garbai el-Kanemi; Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan; Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar; GOC 7 Division, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu; National Coordinator for Counterterrorism, ONSA, Major General AG Laka; and Professor Ibrahim Umara of the University of Maiduguri.

According to the Founder/CEO of KFP, Ambassador Ummu Kalthum Muhammad Rabiu, “This summit is not just a meeting; it’s a movement. It’s about shifting the narrative and ensuring that our youths are seen as active agents of peace, not as passive victims of conflict.”

The Executive Director of NECSOB, Comrade Bulama Abiso, emphasized the role of civil society in bridging gaps and sustaining peace at the grassroots. “Through platforms like this, we can create long-lasting impacts that resonate beyond just dialogue — we build understanding, networks, and community resilience.”

Echoing similar sentiments, the Speaker of the Borno Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Usman, stated, “This is our moment. Our generation must rise to lead the charge for peace. No one understands our struggles like we do.”

With its blend of experienced policymakers, traditional authorities, and passionate youths, the summit is set to be a landmark event in shaping a new narrative of peace and resilience across the Northeast region.

BuildingPeaceTogether #YouthsForPeace #SayNoToExtremism

Youths Take the Lead: Over 1,000 Students to Convene in Maiduguri for High-Level Peacebuilding Summit

Exclusive: Professor Ahidjo explains why UMTH established the ICT Center

By: Our Reporter

The Chief Medical Director, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, has said the primary objective of establishing the ICT Center at University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) is to enhance human capacity development specifically within the realm of medical ICT. 

According to the CMD, this initiative aims to equip healthcare professionals and students with essential digital skills required for efficient healthcare delivery and management. Interestingly, by integrating advanced ICT tools and training programs, UMTH seeks to foster a workforce capable of leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes and streamline medical processes. 

“Human capacity development through the ICT Center involves providing formal training, access to resources, and practical exposure to current technological advancements in medicine. This aligns with findings from similar educational contexts where formal ICT training significantly improves knowledge and utilization among medical students, thereby enhancing their professional competence. Consequently, the center not only supports individual skill enhancement but also contributes to institutional growth by promoting a culture of continuous learning in medical informatics.” He explained. 

NEWSng reports that the UMTH ICT Centre serves as a pivotal platform for building proficient healthcare personnel adept in medical ICT. Its establishment reflects an understanding that modern healthcare increasingly depends on digital literacy and technological innovation, reinforcing UMTH’s commitment to advancing health service quality through human capital development.

Speaking to the CMD, he explained that it has been observed that newly employed ICT graduates from universities and polytechnics often require a significant adjustment period to fully comprehend the specific ICT systems and operational needs within a hospital environment. This delay he observed can be attributed to the unique demands of healthcare settings, which differ substantially from general ICT applications taught in academic institutions. The complexity of hospital information systems, he also said, includes patient data management and medical device integration, adding that this necessitates specialized knowledge beyond standard ICT curricula.

“These graduates may lack practical exposure to healthcare workflows during their training, resulting in an initial gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Bridging this gap involves targeted on-the-job training and mentorship tailored to hospital-specific technologies. The establishment of the ICT center, therefore, in addressing these challenges, is crucial for improving system efficiency and ensuring that ICT professionals can effectively support critical healthcare operations at UMTH.” The CMD said. 

Professor Ahmed Ahidjo explained that the UMTH has resolved to establish a Diploma Course in Medical Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to address the growing intersection between healthcare and technology. This program aims to equip students with foundational knowledge in both core ICT competencies and essential medical sciences, fostering interdisciplinary expertise crucial for modern healthcare environments.

“The curriculum will integrate modules covering computer systems, data management, and software applications alongside medical subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and healthcare ethics. This balanced approach ensures graduates are proficient in managing health information systems while understanding clinical contexts, thereby enhancing their ability to support digital health initiatives effectively. Furthermore, embedding practical training within clinical settings will enable students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

“This diploma course at UMTH is designed to prepare competent professionals who can navigate the complexities of medical ICT. By combining rigorous ICT education with relevant medical courses, the program addresses current workforce demands in healthcare technology integration.” He added. 

He explained that there is a strategic initiative to offer conversion courses aimed at medical personnel interested in information and communication technology (ICT). This interdisciplinary approach seeks to equip healthcare professionals with digital skills essential for addressing evolving global health demands. Integrating ICT into medical practice can enhance data management, improve patient care, and foster innovation in telemedicine, which is critical in today’s interconnected world. 

According to him, the rationale behind these conversion courses lies in bridging the gap between healthcare expertise and technological proficiency. As digital transformation reshapes various sectors, including agriculture and health, equipping medical personnel with ICT competencies aligns with global trends toward digitization. Such education empowers practitioners to contribute effectively to healthcare digitization initiatives and respond adaptively to emerging challenges.

“Overall, UMTH’s commitment reflects a forward-thinking educational model that addresses global needs by fostering cross-disciplinary knowledge. By preparing medical personnel for ICT integration through conversion courses, UMTH positions itself as a leader in cultivating professionals capable of leveraging technology for improved health outcomes.” He said. 

Exclusive: Professor Ahidjo explains why UMTH established the ICT Center