News
NALDA DG to Zulum: You are committed to achieving Tinubu’s agricultural agenda
NALDA DG to Zulum: You are committed to achieving Tinubu’s agricultural agenda
By: Babagana Wakil
The Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), Prince Paul Ikonne, has urged other stakeholders to emulate the efforts of the Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, in reviving agriculture, which he said is in line with President Tinubu’s agricultural agenda for food security.
Mr. Ikonne said, “I want to call on all other stakeholders to quickly key into this agricultural revolution of Mr. President by adopting the method of the Governor of Borno State, the method of unconditional land donation, and the method of total commitment.”
He added, “This is the mission and mindset of the President, and you are worthy of our commendation, Mr. Governor.”
Mr Ikonne made the call on Thursday during the inauguration of projects executed by NALDA in Jere Local Government Area in Central Borno.
The ES expressed gratitude to Governor Zulum for the support he has been rendering to NALDA and assured continuous partnership with the Government of Borno State.
“I thank you, Mr. Governor, for your support for agriculture, your support for development. Borno is a catchment area because of your disposition. NALDA will continue to partner with Borno State because Borno has the potential that is required to develop food production and achieve food security in Nigeria,” Mr. Ikonne said.
Speaking after inaugurating NALDA’s rural housing scheme, Zulum commended Mr. Ikonne for choosing Borno to execute such projects, noting that it will contribute to the economic development of the state.
“Let me use this opportunity to commend the hardworking Executive Secretary of NALDA for all his initiatives that are geared towards creating employment and means of livelihood for the people,” Zulum said.
The housing scheme comprises 120 housing units and livelihood support for the beneficiaries selected from among those affected by the insurgency.
About 120 heads of households benefitted, and each received a house, mattresses, other household materials, 2 she-goats, and a buck each.
Delivering the opening remarks, Borno State Commissioner of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Engr. Bawu Musami, urged Governor Zulum to consider the establishment of a drip irrigation system to encourage communities around the facillity on water management methods in farming.
He further called on the beneficiaries to make good use of the facilities to develop themselves and their families, and contribute to the economic development of the state.
NALDA DG to Zulum: You are committed to achieving Tinubu’s agricultural agenda
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
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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