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Step Up Your Game To End Insecurity, Tinubu Tells Military, Security Agencies

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Step Up Your Game To End Insecurity, Tinubu Tells Military, Security Agencies

  • Inducts 2 NAF helicopters, aircraft, calls for change in mindset, strategy, tactics

By: Our Reporter

President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has implored the Nigerian military and other security agencies to intensify efforts at containing the multi-dimensional security challenges in the country.

He restated his administration’s continued support to the nation’s security forces through the modernization of fleets, training and welfare of personnel.

The President gave the charge on Tuesday during the induction ceremony of two TK-129 ATAK Helicopters and a King Air 360i Aircraft at Nigeria Air (NAF) Base, Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

President Tinubu who was represented at the event by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, recalled the commissioning and induction of four additional Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft into the arsenal of the Nigerian Air Force about two months ago, saying it is a symbol of his government’s enduring commitment to the ideals of patriotism and investment in the nation’s security.

“Indeed, our solemn commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s security hinges upon the realisation that without vigilant attention to the needs of our Armed Forces who are saddled with the maintenance of peace, law, order and stability, anarchy and lawlessness would surely prevail,” he stated.

Delivering the President’s address, VP Shettima noted that the acquisition of helicopters and aircraft had become necessary to improve the strategic use of air power in combating terrorism, insurgency and other security challenges plaguing the nation.

Urging the nation’s security forces to step up their game, President Tinubu said, “I have no doubt that the deployment of these platforms would add impetus to the combat efficiency of the Nigerian Air Force in addressing our contemporary security challenges, not only within the shores of our country but also in the West African region. We are committed to taking the right steps to achieve the desired results.

“The acquisition of these aircraft amongst other military equipment despite our budgetary constraints is an expression of our commitment. We shall ensure that every sector of our nation benefits from the change that we promised. I therefore expect discipline in operation and a strong maintenance culture that will enable the nation to derive maximum benefits from these acquisitions.”

He recalled how since it was established in 1964, the Nigerian Air Force had been playing critical roles in national security, peace-keeping and humanitarian operations globally, noting that its “contributions to the sustenance and maintenance of peace and security in places like The Gambia, Guinea Conakry, Mozambique, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali, Guinea Bissau and Cameroun have not only been a source of pride to Nigeria but have projected the nation as a reliable regional power.

“This is indeed most commendable just as the Nigerian Air Force continues to synergize with other security agencies in curtailing the threats posed by terrorists, insurgents and other criminal elements in the country,” he further stated.

Recalling his promise during his inaugural speech last year that security shall be the top priority of his administration, the President said about six months after his proclamations, “So much has been achieved due to the gallant and synergistic efforts of our various security agencies”.

He expressed delight that coordination among security agencies has improved significantly, just as he declared that “there is no room for celebrations until we put an end to the security logjam; until we can bring our troops back to their localities, and until we can free up resources for our critical economic expansion programme”.

President Tinubu assured that “professionalism, capacity building and adequate equipping of our Armed Forces and other security agencies are a major policy thrust” of his administration.

He, therefore, reiterated that under his watch, the Federal Government “will continue to re-professionalise and re-equip the Armed Forces and security agencies to effectively discharge their duties to our nation”, noting further that as Chairman of the ECOWAS, he was working diligently to enhance regional conflict management and development mechanisms.

Inducting the aircraft and helicopters, the President said, “Finally, I congratulate the Chief of the Air Staff and all the personnel of the Air Force on this occasion of the commissioning of the T-129 ATAK helicopters and King Air 360i aircraft into the Service. At this juncture, I hereby induct the 2 x T -129 ATAK helicopters as NAF 500 and NAF 501 and King Air 360i as NAF 205 into the Service of the Nigerian Air Force and our country”.

Earlier in his welcome address, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, noted that the acquisition and induction of the T129 Atak helicopter and Beechcraft King Air 360i aircraft is a testimony of the Federal Government’s unwavering resolve to equip and empower the air force and enhance its capacity to address security challenges confronting the nation, in conjunction with sister forces and security agencies.

He thanked President Tinubu for the provision to enable the Nigerian Air Force to acquire seven brand-new aircraft within six months of his administration.

The Air Chief disclosed that the Air Force is currently overhauling its operational platforms, equipment and the entire environment to improve its efficiency and service delivery.

On his part, Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, said the induction of the new platforms for the Air Force is a testimony of President Tinubu’s resolve to add impetus to the armed forces’ fight against security challenges in the country.

He commended the armed forces for the commitment to executing their assignments in line with the counter-terrorism plan of the present administration, just as he urged the military to imbibe a positive maintenance culture in utilizing platforms purchased by the government.

Also present at the event were the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State; some members of the National Assembly from Benue State and members of the state House of Assembly, among others.

Step Up Your Game To End Insecurity, Tinubu Tells Military, Security Agencies

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EU Supports IDPs In Five Nigerian States With 15m Euros

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EU Supports IDPs In Five Nigerian States With 15m Euros

By: Michael Mike

The European Union (EU) has provided €15 million to support for the needs of internally displaced persons and deliver protection assistance and durable solutions in Yobe, Adamawa, Kano, Sokoto and Benue States.

EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot announced this in Abuja at the launch of the EU Support for Internally Displaced Persons(IDPs) in Yobe, Adamawa, Benue and Kano States (SIDPIN) and the EU Support for Protection, Assistance and Durable Solutions in Sokoto (SPADS).

Mignot disclosed that the two interventions, which worth a 15 million euros, reflect the European Union’s deep commitment to advancing human dignity, resilience, and sustainable development for displaced persons and the communities that host them.

He said: “Together with the Federal and State authorities, our partners including the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and Danish Refugee Council (DRC) will spearhead this initiative by focusing on local integration in urban and urbanising areas, adopting a multi-scale, integrated, and area-based territorial approach.

“The overall objective of these actions is to strengthen durable solutions through local integration, with a specific focus on women and children.

“We aim to improve the living conditions of displaced populations and host communities in Adamawa, Yobe, Benue, Kano, and Sokoto States through sustainable local urban integration approaches that are replicable and scalable.”

He also noted that displacement in Nigeria particularly in the northeast, north central and northwest has affected over 3.5 million people.

The envoy pointed out that these individuals are not just statistics, but “lives interrupted, dreams deferred, families torn from their homes and futures.”

He added that: “Many of these IDPs want to return home to the place they were forced to leave.

“But some cannot do so in a foreseeable future, especially, because security conditions do not allow it.

“Others have made the choice to remain where they were resettled and this is a respectable personal choice.

He said that the European Union believes that the response must go beyond emergency aid.

Mignot said: “We must look at the root causes of displacement, and just as importantly, at the pathways to sustainable solutions.

“Our two projects will not only address immediate challenges but also contribute to laying the foundation for long-term stability, urban resilience, and peaceful coexistence outcomes that benefit everyone.

“This is why these projects focus on integration in urban and urbanising areas to support those staying in town.

“We recognise the leadership of the Government of Nigeria, both at the federal and state levels, in making these projects possible.

“They were developed through a consultative process involving MDAs, state governments, IDPs, and host communities to make sure that they align with the needs and priorities of our Nigerian partners.

“At the heart of our vision is the principle of local ownership and leadership. True progress happens when communities are empowered, when governments take the lead, and when development is rooted in participation, inclusion, and equity.”

Mignot, therefore, commended the implementing partners such as IOM, UNHCR, UN-Habitat, and the Danish Refugee Council for their expertise, dedication, and shared vision of a better future for displaced persons.

He expressed optimism that the launch of SIDPIN and SPADS would mark the beginning of a new chapter in “how we respond to displacement not only in Nigeria, but also as a model for the region.”

“Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind, and that every displaced person has the opportunity not just to survive, but to rebuild his/her own life, to meaningfully contribute to communities, and become self-reliant,” he said.

In his remarks, Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, thanked the EU and all the implementing partners for their unwavering support.

He pledged the state government support and cooperation to the implementation of the projects.

On his part, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall,

noted that the EU Support for Internally Displaced Persons in Yobe, Adamawa, Benue, and Kano States (SIDPIN), and the EU Support for Protection, Assistance and Durable Solutions in Sokoto State (SPADS) initiatives matter because they touch the heart of human dignity. They are about restoring lives interrupted by conflict and displacement, ensuring that children can grow in safe environments, and that women and men can rebuild their futures with dignity and opportunity.

He added that: “As the UN Secretary-General has reminded us, “leaving no one behind is not a slogan—it is a commitment.” Today we reaffirm that commitment in Nigeria.

“For Nigeria, these programmes are important because displacement challenges go beyond humanitarian needs; they affect development, stability, and peace. Nigeria is a nation of extraordinary resilience and potential. By addressing displacement with durable solutions, we are strengthening the social fabric, deepening trust in institutions, and creating pathways to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. In doing so, we help secure a future where prosperity is shared, and no community is excluded from progress.”

He said: “The United Nations in Nigeria is fully aligned with this vision. Through the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023–2027), we are working with government and partners to integrate durable solutions into broader development planning. These initiatives are anchored in the triple nexus—linking humanitarian action, peace, and development. They aim not only to respond to urgent needs but also to build resilience, expand access to services, and empower communities to thrive.”

The “Sustainable Urban Integration of Displaced Populations in Adamawa, Yobe, and Kano States in Nigeria (SIDPIN)” and the “EU Support for Protection, Assistance, and Durable Solutions in Sokoto (SPADS)”

projects are part of a multi-agency effort to address displacement through sustainable urban integration, with a strong focus on women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Developed through an inclusive consultative process involving State Governors, relevant Federal and State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), IDP communities, and other stakeholders, the projects align with both national and state displacement action plans, as well as the European Union’s regional protection and solutions strategy for West Africa.

EU Supports IDPs In Five Nigerian States With 15m Euros

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Tension at UMTH as patients, relatives locked out by security officer

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Tension at UMTH as patients, relatives locked out by security officer

By: Zagazola Makama

A tense situation is unfolding at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) after the Chief Security Officer, Mr Izge Ibrahim, allegedly ordered a total lockdown of the gates, preventing patients and their families from gaining access.

The action, which has left hundreds of patients and relatives stranded outside, has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about the safety and welfare of those on admission.

Families lamented that they were barred from delivering food and essential items to their loved ones, after Ibrahim allegedly introduced a controversial directive banning meals in food flasks, describing them as “a new way of stealing.”

The development has thrown patients into hunger and distress, with some reportedly left without meals for hours. Relatives who spoke to Zagazola described the order as inhuman, reckless, and life-threatening.

“This is wickedness. How can a man come in and suddenly shut down the hospital gate, blocking us from seeing our sick relatives? People are starving inside. Patients need food and care, not punishment,” one aggrieved relative said.

Zagazola observed chaotic scenes at the hospital entrance, as desperate relatives argued and pleaded with security personnel while patients inside reportedly cried for help. The situation created an atmosphere of anger and fear, with growing concern that lives could be endangered if urgent action is not taken.

As at the time of filing this report, the hospital management has not made any official statement on the matter.
End

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Four killed, 15 injured as rival cult groups clash in Anambra

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Four killed, 15 injured as rival cult groups clash in Anambra

By: Zagazola Makama

Atleast four persons have been killed and 15 others injured following a suspected cult-related attack in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area.

Sources said that the attack occurred late on Thursday during a family meeting ahead of the burial of one Uche Ndilika, a plumber and alleged member of the Aye cult group.

“Armed men suspected to be cultists stormed the gathering at Ezi village, Ogidi, and opened fire on the mourners.

“Police operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer, Ogidi, responded swiftly and rushed the victims to Iyi-Enu Teaching Hospital, where four were confirmed dead and deposited at the morgue for autopsy.

“Fifteen others sustained varying degrees of gunshot injuries and are receiving treatment at Iyi-Enu Teaching Hospital and Twinkle Hospital, Ogidi,” the sources said.

The sources said 16 expended cartridges were recovered at the scene of the attack.

The sources added that preliminary investigations linked the assailants to the rival Bagger cult group, noting that detectives had commenced a manhunt for the perpetrators.

Four killed, 15 injured as rival cult groups clash in Anambra

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