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SPPG holds 2024 Conference in Abuja, October
SPPG holds 2024 Conference in Abuja, October
By: Michael Mike
As political, economic, and social crises continue to ravage Africa, the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) is set to host its 2024 Africa Conference from 3rd to 4th October, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, with the aim to rethink governance and leadership in Africa.
The conference, which is expected to bring together value-orientated politicians, policymakers, and civil society leaders from across the continent, will also see participants connect, share insights, and develop actionable solutions to the governance challenges facing Africa today.
Former Minister of Education and founder of SPPG, Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, while giving views about the conference, said the time has come for Africa to bring on board leaders who are courageous, can change the narrative, and will prioritise citizens’ welfare and interest above self-interest.
According to the World Food Programme (WFP), Africa faces a complex confluence of crises, including an alarming food and nutrition emergency and also regional insecurity, climate-related disasters, the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, and global economic disruptions that have combined to exacerbate governance challenges. Protests and unrest, driven by electoral disputes, governance failures, and rising living costs, have erupted in countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, and Tunisia, with a surge in coups in the Sahel since 2020.
The WFP added that since 2020, multiple coups d’état in the Sahel region and widespread civil unrest from Nigeria to Tunisia have demonstrated the urgent need for a reformed governance model that centres on African citizens. Civil society organisations and social movements across the continent are sounding the alarm, calling for more inclusive, citizen-focused leadership.
Despite these challenges, however, African civil society and social movements have consistently called for a transformation of the continent’s governance systems. They advocate for a future where the interests of African citizens are at the heart of decision-making, driven by effective and accountable leadership.
“Africa Conference 2024 presents a unique platform for leaders who are committed to disruption, not for disruption’s sake, but for the transformation and betterment of our nations.
“At a time when our continent faces multiple crises, we need leaders who possess both the values and the courage to reimagine governance, prioritise citizens’ interests and foster resilience,” Ezekwesili, a leading advocate for transparent governance, said.
The two-day event will feature expert panels, facilitated discussions, and breakout sessions designed to explore innovative solutions to Africa’s governance challenges. These sessions will focus on political leadership, institutions and policies, and citizen engagement. The event will also include a Citizens’ Solidarity Walk, symbolising participants’ commitment to building connections and reinforcing solidarity across Africa.
The conference, which has its theme titled “Good Governance in Africa: Leaders and Citizens Driving Systematic Change,” will have a Member of Parliament for Klottey Korie Constituency, Accra, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, as key note speaker.
Also to speak at the event among others are Adama Gaye, Co-convener, Fixpolitics & SPPG Senegal; Gift ‘Ostallos’ Siziba, Member of Parliament-elect, Pelandaba-Tshabalala Constituency, Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe; Lahiani Najla, Member of Tunisian Parliament; Ambassador Erastus Nwencha, member, Fixpolitics & SPPG, Kenya; Comrade Reagan Miviri, Executive Director, La Lucha, DR Congo; Ayobami Olunloyo, SPPG Alumnus; Dr Abiola Akiyode, Dean, SPPG Nigeria; Alero Ayida-Otobo, CEO, The SPPG; Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, Founder and Chair, Fixpolitics & The SPPG.
According to the organisers, through discussions and collaborative efforts, Africa Conference 2024 aims to develop strategies for systemic change that will influence governance in the short, medium, and long term with the objective to build a future where political leadership, institutions, and policies work effectively for the people and not against them.
SPPG holds 2024 Conference in Abuja, October
Bandits abduct two women in Zamfara, security forces launch rescue operation
By: Zagazola Makama
The Zamfara State Police Command says suspected armed bandits have abducted two women during a night attack on Wanzamai village in Tsafe Local Government Area.
Sources said that the incident occurred on April 15, 2026, at about 10:10 p.m., when armed men riding on motorcycles and wielding sophisticated weapons invaded the residence of one Shafiu Auta at the western outskirts of the community.
According to the sources, the attackers abducted two women during the raid, identified as Maryam Shafiu Auta, 20, the wife of the homeowner, and Anisa Auwal, 22, the wife of his brother.
The DPO Tsafe Division confirmed the incident, noting that troops under Operation Fansan Yamma were immediately alerted and mobilised to the scene.
However, the bandits were said to have escaped with the victims before security forces arrived.
The command said joint security operatives have intensified search-and-rescue operations across likely escape routes, while intelligence teams are engaging local vigilantes and residents to track the movement of the abductors.
It added that efforts are ongoing to determine whether any ransom demands have been made or if communication has been established with the kidnappers.
Bandits abduct two women in Zamfara, security forces launch rescue operation
Military, police foil bandit attack in Zamfara, launch follow-up operations
By: Zagazola Makama
The joint troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA has foiled an attempted bandit attack on Farin Ruwa settlement in Maru Local Government Area.
Zagazola report that the incident occurred on April 15, 2026, at about 3:40 p.m., when suspected armed bandits from Bayan Ruwa hideouts in Maradun Local Government Area attempted to invade the community.
According to the sources , the troops under Operation Fansan Yamma, as well as police patrol swiftly responded to the distress call.
The security forces engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes with possible gunshot injuries.
The troops said the swift response prevented the attack and restored normalcy in the area, with residents returning to their daily activities.
It added that follow-up operations, including combing of the withdrawal routes, have been ordered to determine whether any of the bandits were neutralised or injured, and to recover possible weapons or traces of blood.
The sources said no casualties have been confirmed among civilians or security personnel at the time of the report.
The command further directed intelligence exploitation and debriefing of local residents to ascertain the strength, movement patterns, and direction of the fleeing bandits.
Military, police foil bandit attack in Zamfara, launch follow-up operations
Three vigilantes killed, village head abducted in Kebbi attack
By: Zagazola Makama
Three vigilante members have been killed and a village head abducted following a suspected terrorist attack on Yantala village in Bagudu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Security sources said the incident occurred on April 15, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m., when armed men stormed the community and opened fire sporadically on residents.
The attackers, believed to be members of a terrorist group locally referred to as “Mamudawa Boko Haram,” reportedly killed three vigilantes identified as Usman Riga of Sabon Gari village, Bande of the same address, and Bala Dan Chako of Yantala village.
They were also said to have abducted the village head of Yantala, Garba Ahmadu (85), alongside another resident, Bala Mazuga.
During the assault, one motorcycle was set ablaze before the attackers fled into nearby bush paths.
Local sources said the assailants operated with superior firepower, forcing residents to flee for safety.
Efforts are reportedly ongoing to rescue the abducted victims and track down those responsible for the attack, while tension remains high in the affected community.
Three vigilantes killed, village head abducted in Kebbi attack
Troops recover 74 rustled livestock in Katsina
Police officer arrested after fatal armed robbery at Kontagora filling station
Bandits abduct two women in Zamfara, security forces launch rescue operation
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