Security forces foil rustling, recover 22 animals in Katsina

By: Zagazola Makama

Security operatives in Katsina State have foiled a livestock rustling attempt and recovered 22 stolen animals in Jibia Local Government Area.

Police sources said the incident occurred in the early hours of April 12 following a distress call received at about 12:45 a.m. that suspected armed bandits had rustled livestock from neighbouring Niger Republic.

According to the sources, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jibia swiftly mobilised a joint team comprising police, military and community watch personnel to the area.

They added that the operatives strategically blocked the escape routes of the suspects and engaged them in a gun duel.

“The superior firepower of the security team forced the bandits to abandon the rustled animals and flee into the bush,” the sources said.

The sources disclosed that all 22 sheep and goats were recovered intact during the operation.

They noted that the area has been cordoned off, while aggressive clearance operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Further developments will be communicated as investigations continue, the sources added.

Security forces foil rustling, recover 22 animals in Katsina

Troops arrest suspected Boko Haram member in Yobe

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 233 Battalion have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS member within the Damaturu Military Cantonment in Yobe State.

Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 11:00 p.m. on April 12 between Charlie 2 and Charlie 3 areas of the cantonment in Damaturu Local Government Area.

According to the sources, troops recovered a bag containing clothes and a SIM card from the suspect.

They added that during preliminary investigation, the suspect claimed he was heading to Potiskum and identified himself as an almajiri from the 1000 Area of Maiduguri.

The sources, however, noted that his statements were incoherent, while further physical examination reportedly revealed a rifle sling mark on his shoulder, raising further suspicion.

They said the suspect is currently in custody for further investigation and necessary action.

Troops arrest suspected Boko Haram member in Yobe

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Collaboration, Innovation at AFRIDEX 2026

By: Michael Mike

Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to inter-agency collaboration, innovation, and national development during a high-level engagement with organisers of the African International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026.

The Minister made this known while receiving Maj. Gen. Umar Alkali and his delegation on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.

Describing AFRIDEX as “a very special programme,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that meaningful progress within Nigeria’s defence and security architecture can only be achieved through collaboration rather than isolated efforts. He stressed the need for institutions to embrace openness, synergy, and strategic partnerships to maximise national impact and drive sustainable development.

He commended the AFRIDEX initiative as a critical platform for both emerging and established innovators, particularly Nigerian youths who continue to demonstrate exceptional ingenuity in digital and cybersecurity sectors. According to the Minister, providing visibility for such talents is essential for strengthening national pride, advancing economic growth, and enhancing global competitiveness.

Highlighting the central role of research in national development, Tunji-Ojo called for stronger linkages between innovation and market opportunities. He noted that creating platforms where innovators, manufacturers, and investors can interact is key to translating research into tangible economic value.

Encouraging the organisers, the Minister advised that AFRIDEX should be institutionalised as an annual event. While acknowledging that the maiden edition may present challenges, he noted that it would also offer valuable lessons to improve future editions. He further called for deeper collaboration among security and intelligence agencies, stressing that “this is not a time for territorial thinking, but for collective progress.”

Reaffirming the Ministry’s support, he described AFRIDEX as an initiative that represents “the future, not just the present,” adding that sustained efforts would attract international participation and promote the growth of indigenous industries.

On visa facilitation, the Minister acknowledged ongoing improvements but recommended the establishment of a dedicated support desk to ensure seamless entry processes for the expected influx of international participants.

Earlier, Maj. Gen. Alkali expressed appreciation to the Minister for the audience and commended his continued support for capacity building and inter-agency cooperation. He formally introduced AFRIDEX as a premier global defence and security exhibition scheduled to hold from October 26–29, 2026, at Eko Atlantic City.

Organised with the support of the Federal Government of Nigeria and hosted by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, the event is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators. The exhibition will showcase cutting-edge solutions across land, air, maritime, space, and cyber domains, with over 30,000 international participants and 500 exhibitors anticipated.

Alkali also highlighted the critical role of the Ministry of Interior in ensuring the success of the event, particularly in the areas of security coordination and visa facilitation. He formally invited the Honourable Minister to participate and requested the Ministry’s support in promoting AFRIDEX through its platforms, as well as encouraging participation from agencies under its supervision.

The visit concluded with a shared commitment to strategic partnership and a unified vision of positioning Nigeria as a global hub for defence innovation and security solutions.

FG Reaffirms Commitment to Collaboration, Innovation at AFRIDEX 2026