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UN Calls for Upholding of International Humanitarian Law in War Against Terrorism

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UN Calls for Upholding of International Humanitarian Law in War Against Terrorism

…Asked for Protection of Humanitarian Workers, Civilians at all Times

By: Michael Mike

The United Nations (UN) has called for the upholding of the international humanitarian law in the ongoing battle between Nigeria and non-state actors, insisting that humanitarian workers and civilians must be protected at all times.

A statement jointly signed on Tuesday by the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall and the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Sununu to commemorate World Humanitarian Day 2025, read: “We urgently call for the protection of humanitarian workers and civilians across the globe. We ask that international humanitarian law be upheld and that protection be provided to all those affected by conflict and disaster. We particularly call for the protection of women and girls, who are among the most vulnerable and most profoundly affected. Attacks on humanitarian workers—and more importantly, the people they seek to assist—must stop.

“This year’s World Humanitarian Day comes at a time when global solidarity with people in humanitarian need is at its lowest ebb. International humanitarian financing is collapsing. Many of the most vulnerable people have little or no support. In Nigeria, humanitarian needs are increasing, with food insecurity and malnutrition becoming an unfolding disaster. Pipelines for food and nutrition—lifelines for millions of people, especially children under the age of five—are severely disrupted, if not completely depleted.

“Millions of children are at risk of life-threatening severe acute malnutrition (SAM). It is estimated that some 31 million people are food insecure, over 10 million children under five are acutely malnourished, and 3.5 million are severely malnourished—2.5 million of these in six states. Urgent action is needed for about 400,000 SAM children, whose lives hang in the balance if immediate steps are not taken to reverse the situation.

“Globally, the humanitarian community is faced with unprecedented challenges. International humanitarian law is treated with disdain. Multilateralism has been replaced with short-term self-interest. And humanitarianism is under attack. The reform of the humanitarian system is urgently needed—building on the lessons learned over the last six decades and the incredible know-how and experience of humanitarian partners, both local and international.

“In Nigeria, humanitarian operations must become more efficient, accountable, and transparent. They must be led by the Government and implemented by local partners to the extent possible, and funded through local resources supported by the international community.”

The statement added that: Towards this end, the humanitarian community in Nigeria commits to: Fully supporting humanitarian response and action under the leadership of the Government of Nigeria, coordinated with guidance by the Government of Nigeria; Working with the Government to ensure a transition from an internationally supported humanitarian operation to locally led action by the end of the transition period; and ensuring a shift from the direct delivery of humanitarian aid to an enabling role for local actors, while preserving core functions such as humanitarian diplomacy, coordination, protection, and upholding humanitarian principles.

In a related development, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) paid tribute to the selfless dedication and sacrifices of humanitarian workers worldwide.

In a statement to commemorate the day in Abuja Tuesday, Executive Secretary of the Commission Dr. Tony Ojukwu said humanitarian workers are heroes who risk their lives to provide critical assistance to vulnerable populations, including Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), refugees, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups and population of concern.

He said: “As we commemorate this day, we recognize the tireless efforts of humanitarian workers who strive to alleviate suffering, protect human dignity, and promote resilience in the face of crises. Their work is a testament to the power of compassion, empathy, and solidarity in the protection of civilians.

He stated that despite their courageous efforts, many vulnerable populations continue to face significant challenges in accessing essential services, protection, and support.

He emphasized that it is imperative that stakeholders – governments, civil society organisations, international partners, and individuals – come together to strengthen humanitarian work and ensure that those in need receive the help they deserve.

He noted that the NHRC in collaboration with UNHCR is currently undertaking a critical project to document reports of human rights situations affecting vulnerable populations like the forcibly displaced persons across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

This initiative according to him aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by these groups and inform evidence-based interventions to address their needs. This will be followed by a quarterly Humanitarian Dashboard on humanitarian situation in the country

The Executive Secretary used the opportunity to call on all stakeholders to prioritize the protection and dignity of vulnerable populations, enhance collaboration and coordination to address humanitarian challenges, increase support for humanitarian workers and initiatives, as well as promote inclusive and sustainable humanitarian responses.

He thanked the humanitarian community in Nigeria, the UN system especially the UNHCR, the Red Cross, ICRC and host of international agencies, CSOs who continue to support the protection of civilians and other vulnerable population in need.

He said: “As we honour the sacrifices of humanitarian workers, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding human rights and dignity. Together, we can create a more just, equitable, and compassionate world for all.”

UN Calls for Upholding of International Humanitarian Law in War Against Terrorism

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National Progressive Hub (NPH) Urges Support for President Tinubu’s Second Tenure

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National Progressive Hub (NPH) Urges Support for President Tinubu's Second Tenure

National Progressive Hub (NPH) Urges Support for President Tinubu’s Second Tenure

By Comrade Philip Ikodor

The National Progressive Hub (NPH), a leading support group for the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on all Nigerians to rally behind President Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR for a successful second term in office come 2027.

In a statement, National Coordinator/Convener, Honorable Bukie Okangbe, praised the APC administration for its efforts towards nation-building and economic stability. Okangbe highlighted the NPH’s previous support for President Tinubu, including a National Security and Endorsement event in 2022 that contributed to the party’s successful general election outcome.

The NPH is gearing up for a Grand Endorsement event for President Tinubu’s second term, scheduled to hold on February 26th at the Musa Yaradua Center, CBD, Abuja. The event will also feature the inauguration of 36 state coordinators, including the FCT, and address critical national issues.

“We invite everyone to join us at this significant event,” Okangbe said. “Your presence will be a testament to our collective commitment to Nigeria’s progress and the APC’s vision for a better future.”

The event promises to be a landmark occasion, showcasing the NPH’s dedication to the APC and President Tinubu’s leadership.

National Progressive Hub (NPH) Urges Support for President Tinubu’s Second Tenure

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Borno: Zulum distributes farm tools, commissions school in Damasak

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Borno: Zulum distributes farm tools, commissions school in Damasak

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Sunday, distributed farm tools to farmers and commissioned a new high Islamic school in Damasak, headquarters of Mobbar Local Government Area.

Governor Zulum was accompanied by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.

Zulum’s agricultural intervention aimed to boost dry-season farming and enhance the livelihoods of returnees who are gradually resettling in the community.

Zulum said, “From the beginning of this administration, dry season irrigation farming was adopted as a strategic component of the state’s food security framework. Recognising the limitations of rain-fed agriculture in the context of climate variability, insecurity, and population growth, the government implemented a dual-season production strategy to ensure year-round farming.”

He added, “Today’s distribution of 1,000 solar-powered water pumps and 200 complete tubewell drilling kits build upon earlier targeted interventions in Damasak and surrounding communities, including irrigation infrastructure development, mechanisation services, farmer-training, cooperative support, and security stabilisation measures.”

He stated, “The state remains aligned with the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit and continues collaboration with relevant Federal Ministries and development partners to strengthen agricultural productivity, processing, and market integration.”

At the commissioning of the newly constructed high Islamic school, Zulum noted, “the commissioning of the Higher Islamic College, Damasak, represents a major milestone in the state government’s policy to expand and modernise sangaya education across Borno State. This intervention reflects our commitment to building an inclusive education system that integrates spiritual development with academic and vocational advancement.”

“All Higher Islamic Colleges operate under the approved curriculum of the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS), enabling students to obtain O-Level equivalent certification and pursue further education where desired.”

In his remarks, the commissioner of education, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, underscores Governor Zulum’s giant strides, stating, “this institution forms part of a wider education recovery and expansion programme implemented across Borno State. Under the leadership of His Excellency,”

“The state has constructed One Hundred and Four (104) Mega Schools, rehabilitated and remodelled One Thousand and Eighty-Seven (1,087) classrooms, executed major works in forty (40) additional schools, restored thirty (30) flood-affected schools, and delivered numerous classroom projects through the State Universal Basic Education Board.”

“These strategic investments have yielded measurable progress. The number of out-of-school children has declined significantly from approximately 2.2 million to fewer than Eight Hundred Thousand (800,000). Current enrolment for the 2025 academic year stands at One Million Four Hundred and Eighteen thousand two hundred and seventy-nine (1,418,279) learners, with further increases expected as Women Leader, Hajiya Fati Alkali Kakenna.

Borno: Zulum distributes farm tools, commissions school in Damasak

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Air-ground offensive foils Kukawa attack, destroys gun trucks

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Air-ground offensive foils Kukawa attack, destroys gun trucks

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops have thwarted a coordinated multi-pronged terrorist assault on positions in Kukawa after a prolonged overnight battle supported by air strikes.

Military sources said the attackers, mounted on gun trucks, motorcycles and on foot, launched the assault from multiple directions late on Feb. 20.

Troops mounted a determined defence, engaging the insurgents in intense combat that lasted into the early hours of Feb. 21 before forcing them to withdraw while dragging away casualties.

Air strikes later destroyed one gun truck and several motorcycles carrying fleeing fighters, neutralising additional terrorists.

During follow-up exploitation, troops recovered 13 AK-47 rifles, 16 loaded magazines, three handheld radios, and other items believed to have been used by the attackers, as well as evidence of casualties evacuated by the group.

One soldier was killed during the encounter, while some equipment was damaged by rocket fire. Injured personnel were evacuated and are reported to be in stable condition.

Military authorities said the coordinated operations demonstrated sustained pressure on insurgent elements and continued efforts to degrade their combat capability across the theatre.

Air-ground offensive foils Kukawa attack, destroys gun trucks

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