Education
UKAid depeens campaigns against cybercrime, cultism across Nigeria•THRIVE ONLINE, CANCEL CULTS programmes transforming lives in Lagos, Edo, Bayelsa
UKAid depeens campaigns against cybercrime, cultism across Nigeria
•THRIVE ONLINE, CANCEL CULTS programmes transforming lives in Lagos, Edo, Bayelsa
By: Michael Mike
The THRIVE ONLINE campaign, a vital component of the broader BRIGHTER FUTURES programme supported by the UK government, continues its proactive efforts to combat cybercrime and cultism in Nigeria.
With a targeted focus on Lagos, Edo, and Bayelsa States, the campaign aims to safeguard individuals, families, and communities from the detrimental impacts of these societal scourges.
Ahmad Jumare, one of the Communications Managers of the Programme, underscored the grave threat posed by cybercrime in Nigeria. He emphasised the far-reaching consequences, including financial losses and compromised online safety for citizens.
Highlighting data from Kaspersky, a leading cybersecurity firm, Jumare reiterated Nigeria’s unfortunate distinction as the African country with the highest number of cyber threats over the past year.
In response, the THRIVE ONLINE campaign has ramped up its efforts to promote online safety and awareness.
Through its online platform thriveonlinenigeria.com, Facebook page, and monthly radio show on Eco FM, the campaign disseminates valuable information and best practices to mitigate cyber risks. Additionally, targeted interventions focus on mentoring young individuals at risk of involvement in cybercrime, redirecting their trajectories towards positive opportunities.
In the same vein, the CANCEL CULTS campaign addresses the pervasive issue of cultism and serious organised crime, particularly in Edo and Bayelsa States.
Utilising various platforms such as Facebook, radio talk shows, awareness events, and school engagements, the campaign delivers targeted messages aimed at preventing youth from succumbing to cult-related violence and criminal activities.
Mentorship programmes and sports initiatives play a pivotal role in sensitising vulnerable youths to the dangers of cultism while offering alternative pathways to personal and professional development. By collaborating with government agencies and civil society organisations, the CANCEL CULTS campaign strives to create an enabling environment where youths can thrive through legitimate means.
Both campaigns are integral parts of the overarching BRIGHTER FUTURES programme, which has already made significant strides in transforming the lives of vulnerable youths across various communities. By providing skills acquisition programs, community-based initiatives, and mentorship opportunities, the programme empowers individuals to build sustainable livelihoods while addressing past trauma and enhancing self-worth.
Philip Slaboh, Bayelsa state coordinator for the program, commended the positive impact of the Bright Futures Project, noting tangible changes in the behavior and outlook of youths involved in drugs and cultism. He underlined the importance of intervention programs in steering young people towards constructive pathways and away from the perils of criminality.
Similarly, Williams Ehisogie, head of Edo State Security Network (ESSN) in Idogbo secretariat, Ikpoba- Okha LGA, shared, “The Brighter Futures project introduced valuable skills, such as interacting with organizations mandated for crime prevention. For instance, when we rescued a human trafficking victim in Ikpoba-Okha LGA, I contacted the project team, who connected me with NAPTIP for prosecution—a testament to the effectiveness of collaboration.”
Meanwhile, Mrs Blessing Abiri, Lagos state coordinator for the programme, stressed: “Success in preventing serious and organized crime hinges on building resilience and strategically mapping goals to experience transformative life changes. The Brighter Futures interventions have opened beneficiaries up to the impact of a growth mindset and self-confidence to thrive in their communities without fear, empowering them with renewed hope for a bright future.”
The THRIVE ONLINE and CANCEL CULTS campaigns represent proactive measures aimed at safeguarding Nigerian communities and fostering a brighter future for all citizens.
UKAid depeens campaigns against cybercrime, cultism across Nigeria
•THRIVE ONLINE, CANCEL CULTS programmes transforming lives in Lagos, Edo, Bayelsa
UNIMAID Student Drowns in Gwange River, Another Rescued
By: Zagazola Makama
A tragic drowning incident has claimed the life of a University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) student, while another was rescued after they went swimming at the Gwange River Bank in Maiduguri.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on March 14, 2025, around 7:00 p.m., when two UNIMAID students, identified as Abafras Abdiel from the Department of Forestry and Silas Sule from the Department of Geology, went to the Gwange River Bank behind ECWA Church for a swim.
While diving, both students drowned in the river, prompting an emergency response. A combined rescue team, including the police, divers, and fire service personnel, was immediately mobilized to the scene.
The rescue team managed to retrieve both victims and rushed them to the State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri. While Abafras Abdiel was admitted for treatment, Silas Sule was unfortunately certified dead by doctors. His body has since been deposited at the hospital for autopsy and further investigations.
The authorities have urged students and residents to exercise caution when engaging in activities near water bodies, especially during the dry season, when river currents can be unpredictable.
UNIMAID Student Drowns in Gwange River, Another Rescued
Federal University Gusau: A 300-level student died in a bandit’s den in Zamfara
By: Our Reporter
This is truly heartbreaking. Zarah Abubakar Shehu, a 21-year-old 300-level student at Federal University Gusau, was abducted along with her two siblings by bandits in the early hours of Sunday, November 3, 2024, from their home in the Damba area of Gusau, Zamfara State.
The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦35 million for their release. After much struggle, the family managed to gather ₦10 million, which the kidnappers agreed to accept. However, even after receiving the money, they still refused to release Zarah. Instead, they demanded four motorcycles (Boza) and four cartons of engine oil.
Zarah and her siblings spent four months in captivity. When all the items were finally gathered, the kidnappers’ leader was informed. He then called his men to check on the captives. To everyone’s horror, his men responded that only two children remained; one of them, Zarah, had passed away and had already been buried two days earlier.
Zarah was the only daughter of her mother, making her loss even more devastating. Her passing is not just a tragedy for her family but a heartbreaking reflection of the ongoing insecurity in Zamfara State and the pain that countless families endure.
Federal University Gusau: A 300-level student died in a bandit’s den in Zamfara
Gunmen Kidnap Four Students in Katsina State
By: Zagazola Makama
Suspected armed bandits have abducted four students from Paris Quarters, behind the Federal University, Dutsinma, in Katsina State, security sources told Zagazola Makama on Sunday.
The attack occurred at about 2:20 a.m. on Sunday, when the assailants, reportedly in large numbers, quietly invaded the area and whisked away four individuals.
The victims have been identified as Wali Kayode (25), Fahad Muhammad (20), Emmanuel (surname unknown), and another yet-to-be-identified person.
Security operatives were mobilized to the scene immediately after receiving a distress call but the bandits had fled.
Security sources said that Efforts are ongoing to track down the kidnappers and rescue the victims safely.
Gunmen Kidnap Four Students in Katsina State
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