News
Tribute to Mr. Stanley Mshelia (Ya Sta)

Tribute to Mr. Stanley Mshelia (Ya Sta)
By: Kwapchi Bata Hamman
I always find it difficult to write a tribute when a close one passes. The last time I wrote one was on 24th December 2015, when my father passed away. Tributes remind me of memories though good to share in order to ease the pain of loss but for me, I have often lacked the courage to put my emotions into words. I have experienced many deaths, and each time, the pain remains. I never had the courage to openly share my deepest grief.
Today, however, I have taken the bold step to write this tribute to a very special boss—one every young person and beginner would wish to have as a supervisor and mentor.
Ya Sta, as we fondly called you, was not just a boss but an exceptional leader. He discovered my potential in the journalism profession from the very first audition I did as an intern in the NTA Maiduguri Newsroom. He never underestimated my knowledge or ability. I was the “baby” (and a bit naughty) in the newsroom then. I had the great opportunity of being guided by Ya Sta, Mohammed Umar, Charles Bula, Idris Akanmu, Evelyn Onyilo, Lydia Samson, Aliyu Mshelia, and the late Jemima Bassi.
As Head of News, Stanley Mshelia took a special interest in me. He encouraged the editors to assign me tasks that some thought I could not handle, but I managed to deliver though not without some hurdles along the way. He once gave me the nickname(Kwapchi Kwapsy) after I failed to deliver on a particular assignment, a situation that nearly got the station into trouble.
Despite that, he never stopped pushing me to actualize my dreams, nor was he discouraged from supporting me to become a reporter. I learnt from him that hard work never goes unrewarded. On days I did well, I always received a tip from him, and that shaped how I interact with people in my own work environment.
As I mourn his death, which came as a shock, I remain deeply grateful for his unwavering support and trust, which have been instrumental in my growth and development. Thank you for believing in me, for challenging me to reach new heights, and for creating an environment where I could thrive.
Your leadership as Head of News at NTA Maiduguri Zonal Network Centre not only inspired me professionally but also personally. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked under your guidance and will always cherish the lessons learned and the memories shared.
I pray God grants your wife divine strength to bear this irreparable loss,a loss to heavy for any person to bear. and to all your loved ones, may the cherished moments remain ever green in our hearts
Thank you for being such an amazing boss and mentor.
Kwapchi Bata Hamman
2nd August 2025
Tribute to Mr. Stanley Mshelia (Ya Sta)
News
Police arrest officer in Lagos over alleged N915,000 rice fraud

Police arrest officer in Lagos over alleged N915,000 rice fraud
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police Command in Lagos State has arrested a serving officer over alleged fraud involving N915,000 in a failed rice supply deal.
Sources said the case was reported on Sept. 11 at about 2:34 p.m.
According to sources, it was alleged that a Complainant (name witheld) in January 2024, gave a Police Inspector attached to Lagos State Command, the sum of N915,000 to supply 20 bags of rice.
“Ever since she received the money, she went into hiding until she was traced to her residence at Olusosun area of Ojota and brought to the station,” said the sources.
The sources added that on interrogation, the officer admitted to the crime and had been detained for appropriate disciplinary action.
The sources said investigation into the case was ongoing.
Police arrest officer in Lagos over alleged N915,000 rice fraud
Crime
Addressing Security Concerns at UMTH: Clarifying Misunderstandings

Addressing Security Concerns at UMTH: Clarifying Misunderstandings
By: Lazarus Balami
The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) has recently faced concerns regarding the allegedly restricted access of patients’ relatives to hospital wards due to security issues.
Earlier reports, including one by Zagazola Makama, have suggested that the gates at the hospital have been closed to limit entry.

NEWSng, however, reports that this summary of the situation does not fully represent the complexities involved that informed the measures taken.

The primary reason for these measures relates to rising security incidents within the hospital. It has been reported that thieves, posing as patients’ relatives, have managed to gain unauthorized access to the wards and steal phones and other valuables of patients and their relatives.

These individuals have exploited the vulnerabilities in the hospital’s entry protocols to commit theft and other illegal activities.

Such incidents have understandably raised alarm among hospital management and staff, prompting them to take action to ensure the safety of all patients and visitors.

Another source from the hospital confirmed that it was in response to these security breaches that the hospital security team took a proactive measure.
They have implemented stricter security measures, including monitoring the entrances more closely and conducting regular patrols within the hospital premises.

The situation has improved after security personnel apprehended several suspects involved in these criminal activities.
These individuals were handed over to the Gwange Police Station for further investigation and legal action.” The source said.
NEWSng reports that the actions taken by the security team demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to not only providing medical care but also ensuring a safe environment for its patients and their families.
It is, therefore, crucial to clarify that access to wards has not been entirely closed off. The hospital continues to prioritize patient care and recognizes the importance of having family members present to support their loved ones.
Security measures are designed not to alienate relatives but to protect them and the hospital community. Procedures may be more stringent, but they aim to safeguard both patients and visitors from potential harm.
Communication is vital in these situations. The media should seek clarity of information before reaching out to the public.
The hospital administration is also doing the necessary to ensure that information reaches the public effectively, alleviating concerns about restricted access.
Transparent communication can help foster understanding among relatives, patients, and hospital staff, thereby reinforcing trust.
Addressing Security Concerns at UMTH: Clarifying Misunderstandings
News
Troops of Op-MESA intercepts nine illegal immigrants in Ogun

Troops of Op-MESA intercepts nine illegal immigrants in Ogun
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation MESA have intercepted nine suspected illegal immigrants in Ogun State.
Sources who confirmed the developments to Zagazola said the interception took place on Sept. 11 at about 6:00 a.m. when Op-MESA Team 9, led by ASP Vincent Ohilebo, was on duty at the Laderin pin-down point near the Immigration office.
“The nine intercepted persons, all male, confessed to being illegal immigrants.
“They were immediately handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service through its officer, Prince Omotola Adefemi, for necessary action,” said the sources.
The sources added that security agencies remained on alert to check the influx of irregular migrants into the state.
Troops of Op-MESA intercepts nine illegal immigrants in Ogun
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