News
Nigeria Insists Africa Needs to Unite Against Insecurity for Growth and Development
Nigeria Insists Africa Needs to Unite Against Insecurity for Growth and Development
By: Michael Mike
African countries need to unify to combat the security challenges facing the continent, the Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ambassador Musa Nuhu has said
Nuhu, who is the Chair, ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council made the call during his welcome remarks at the joint consultation meeting between the African Union (AU)’s peace and security council (PSC) and the ECOWAS mediation and security council (MSC) at the ambassadorial level on Wednesday in Abuja.
While stating that there is urgent has need for unified response to the security threats in Africa, Nuhu said: “The security landscape in Africa is a dynamic one, constantly presenting new complex threats. From terrorism and violent extremism to unconstitutional changes of government, these challenges demand a unified response that goes beyond our national boundaries and requires collective’ efforts.
“Therefore, these joint consultative engagements between the AU and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) serve as an important platform for forging such a collective response to mitigate these challenges, in tandem with the tenets of Article 16 of the PSC Protocol, to harmonize the activities of Regional mechanisms towards promoting peace, security and stability in Africa.
“Specifically, the nexus between the missions of the AU PSC and ECOWAS MSC is highly fundamental, as it underscores the interconnectedness of peace and security efforts at both the continental and regional levels.
“By aligning strategies and actions, this joint consultation can foster a deeper understanding of regional security dynamics, harmonize efforts aimed at preventive diplomacy and develop more effective conflict resolution strategies, thereby ensuring a more cohesive and comprehensive approach to regional peace and stability.”
He however advised that the AU-REC’s dialogue should go beyond discussions on only Political Affairs, Peace and Security, insisting that it “should involve discussions on economic development, humanitarian intervention, social cohesion as well as infrastructural development which are the building blocks for good governance that would guarantee a peaceful and stable Africa.”
Meanwhile, the African Union (AU), has raised the alarm that terrorist groups, violent extremists and coup plotters are gaining prominence in West Africa.
Permanent Representative of The Gambia to the AU and Chairperson of the Peace and Security Council, Ambassador Jainaba Jagne raised the alarm while speaking at the event.
Jagne, who is a co-chair of the event, said: “Our continent is currently faced with the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism and the resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government which has serious negative consequences for peace, security and stability in our communities.
“Unfortunately, data shows that the western part of the continent is the most affected by both issues. Four out of the six AU member states suspended due to coup d’etat are from West Africa. This has never happened in the history of African Union.
“According to the African Centre for the Study of research on terrorism, the West African region is the most affected by the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism on the continent in terms of attacks, deaths and casualties,” she said.
Jagne, while lamenting that these events were happening despite significant efforts made over the years by governments and the continental and regional institutions to promote and consolidate democracy, called for a collaborative affort to reverse the unfortunate trend.
She said: “This meeting will be an opportunity for two councils to brainstorm on the effective means and ways of preventing and responding to the recurrences of Unconstitutional Change of Government (UCG).
“We must find alternate options and tools to effectively address the crises and challenges that beset our continent. It is also very important and a very good occasion to further reflect on the proliferation of terrorist groups that threaten peace, security and development, as well as the territorial integrity of the member states directly affected by these unfortunate events.”
Nigeria Insists Africa Needs to Unite Against Insecurity for Growth and Development
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued two kidnapped victims during a routine patrol in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Security sources said the operation took place at about 7:01 p.m. on April 30 when troops of 12 Brigade deployed at Okoloke Patrol Base intercepted suspected kidnappers at Ejiba community.
The sources disclosed that the troops acted swiftly, forcing the suspects to abandon their victims.
According to the sources, the two kidnapped persons were successfully rescued and later reunited with their families.
They added that security patrols have been intensified in the area to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents.
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa following mounting concerns over a fresh wave of anti-foreigner protests and reported attacks targeting Nigerian citizens and their businesses.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that the envoy is expected at its headquarters in Abuja on Monday, May 4, 2026, where Nigerian authorities will formally register their strong displeasure over developments seen as threatening the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between both countries.
At the heart of the meeting are recent demonstrations by various groups in South Africa, which have reportedly degenerated into harassment, violence, and destruction of foreign-owned businesses—many belonging to Nigerians. The incidents have triggered widespread anger among Nigerians, amid fears for the safety of thousands living and working in South Africa.
Spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa on Saturday said the government is deeply worried about the implications of the unrest on bilateral relations, stressing that Nigeria remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad while pursuing diplomatic solutions.
Despite the rising tension, the Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain calm, assuring that steps are being taken at the highest diplomatic levels to address the situation and ensure the safety and dignity of its nationals.
Nigeria and South Africa share one of Africa’s most strategic bilateral relationships, rooted in a history of solidarity dating back to Nigeria’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle. However, relations have repeatedly come under strain due to recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
Notably, major incidents in 2008, 2015, and 2019 saw widespread attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians, leading to deaths, looting, and destruction of properties. The 2019 crisis, in particular, sparked a diplomatic row, with Nigeria recalling its High Commissioner and boycotting the World Economic Forum on Africa 2019 in protest.
In response to past crises, both countries established diplomatic mechanisms, including an early warning system and joint consular forums, aimed at preventing further violence and protecting citizens. Despite these measures, sporadic tensions and anti-immigrant sentiments have persisted, often fueled by local grievances over unemployment and crime.
Analysts warned that the current developments, if not swiftly contained, could once again test diplomatic ties between Africa’s two largest economies and undermine regional integration efforts under frameworks such as the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The outcome of Monday’s meeting is therefore seen as crucial in determining whether both nations can de-escalate tensions and reaffirm their commitment to mutual respect, cooperation, and the protection of citizens on both sides.
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
Troops Rescue Injured Victim After Attack by Berom militia in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Safe Haven have rescued a civilian who sustained machete injuries following an attack by Berom militia along Bachi–Werreng Road in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 7:20 p.m. on May 1 when suspected criminals attacked the victim along the road.
The sources disclosed that troops of Sector 6, deployed at Bachi, swiftly responded to a distress call and moved to the scene.
According to the sources, the attackers fled upon the arrival of the troops, abandoning the injured victim.
They added that the victim, who sustained machete cuts, was immediately evacuated to a hospital in Rachi for medical treatment.
The sources further said the assailants carted away the victim’s motorcycle during the attack.
They noted that security patrols have been intensified in the area, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.
Troops Rescue Injured Victim After Attack by Berom militia in Plateau
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
Two Impostors in Military Uniform Arrested in Kaduna
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News1 year agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
