News
US Provides $400,000 to Preserve Ancient Nigerian Earthworks at Sungbo’s Eredo
US Provides $400,000 to Preserve Ancient Nigerian Earthworks at Sungbo’s Eredo
By: Michael Mike
United States has provided $400,000 to preserve the Ancient Nigerian Earthworks at Sungbo’s Eredo
According to a statement on Wednesday by the US Embassy in Nigeria, the U.S. Mission to Nigeria proudly marks the culmination of a five-year effort to preserve and document Sungbo’s Eredo, a historic 100-mile system of earthworks in southwest Nigeria.
Funded by a $400,000 grant from the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) in 2019, the project underscores the United States’ commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage and fostering international collaboration.
Built between 800-1000 C.E. as part of the Yoruba Ijebu Kingdom, Sungbo’s Eredo is believed to be one of the largest ancient cities in the world. The statement said the AFCP grant enabled the College of William and Mary to deploy advanced remote sensing and 3D scanning technology to document the structure comprehensively. In addition to producing survey data, the project designed a conservation strategy for two five-mile sections of the enclosure and raised awareness to support Sungbo’s Eredo’s nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During a December 10 ceremonial handover of the project’s survey data to Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission David Greene spoke about cultural heritage preservation as a bridge between nations.
“Preserving cultural heritage strengthens the bonds between nations and connects future generations to their history,” Greene remarked. “Over the last five years, the United States has allocated $1.2 million to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage through 15 AFCP projects across 21 states. Today, we celebrate the collaborative work at Sungbo’s Eredo, which not only honors Nigeria’s history but also paves the way for sustainable tourism and cultural resilience.”
The survey data will be instrumental in planning restoration efforts and developing strategies to protect Sungbo’s Eredo from natural disasters. The project is a testament to the longstanding partnership between the United States and Nigeria in protecting cultural landmarks. From reviving the Sukur UNESCO Heritage Site in Adamawa State to digital surveys of the Busanyin Shrine in the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, the U.S. Mission has supported numerous initiatives to safeguard Nigeria’s historical treasures.
The U.S. Mission looks forward to continuing its work with Nigerian partners such as NCMM, and international institutions, to preserve and celebrate Nigeria’s extraordinary cultural legacy for future generations.
US Provides $400,000 to Preserve Ancient Nigerian Earthworks at Sungbo’s Eredo
Two killed, several injured as bandits attack vigilantes in Kwara
By: Zagazola Makama
Two persons have been confirmed dead and several others injured following a bandit attack on vigilante operatives in Edogi, Lafiagi axis of Kwara State.
The incident, which occurred during a clash between the vigilantes and suspected bandits, also left four persons with gunshot wounds. Among the injured are Mohammed Ndagi,Saidu Jiya,and Philips John,all members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN). A civilian passerby, Babangida Daniel was also caught in the crossfire.
They were rushed to the General Hospital in Lafiagi for emergency treatment. However, the VGN Commander, Mohammed Yatsu (50), and Babangida Daniel were confirmed dead by medical personnel.
The remaining injured victims have been referred to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) for further medical care.
Meanwhile, ASP Sado Sunday, who was reportedly involved in the operation, remains missing as search efforts continue.
Security sources say efforts are underway to track down the perpetrators and restore calm in the area.
Two killed, several injured as bandits attack vigilantes in Kwara
Security forces repel attack, reclaim villages in Bokkos LGA, Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
A joint security operation has reclaimed several deserted villages in the Horop District of Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, following persistent attacks and occupation by suspected Fulani militias.
Zagazola Makama was reliably informed that the clearance operation was launched after residents of Hokk and neighboring villages fled their homes, reporting that the attackers had taken over their communities and erected temporary shelters.
In response, a combined troops of the Nigerian Army, team of Special Intervention Squad (SIS) and Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel were deployed to the area to restore order and secure the villages.
The troops, encountered strong resistance from the armed attackers. A fierce gun battle ensued, but the attackers were eventually overpowered and forced to retreat into nearby bushes.
During the operation, several makeshift huts erected by the militias were destroyed, and two motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing assailants were recovered.
Authorities say patrols and security presence in the area have been intensified to prevent further incursions and allow displaced villagers to safely return to their homes.
Security forces repel attack, reclaim villages in Bokkos LGA, Plateau
Troops arrest 25 suspected bandits, kidnappers in Katsina-Ala, Benue
By: Zagazola Makama
Joint security operatives have arrested 25 suspected bandits and kidnappers during a coordinated operation along the Katsina-Ala–Takum Federal Highway in Benue State.
Zagazola Makama learnt that the patrol, which was conducted on Monday, was initiated following intelligence reports of planned attacks on Tor-Donga town by suspected armed herdsmen and bandits, the Benue State Police Command said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
According to the statement, credible intelligence led the patrol team to Gbisetown, a known flashpoint along the highway, where four suspects were initially apprehended after attempting to flee upon sighting the security convoy.
“While returning to Tor-Donga, the operatives again sighted suspicious movement around the same Gbisetown area. A general raid of the surroundings was carried out, leading to the arrest of 21 more suspects believed to be linked to recent kidnappings and banditry in the area,” said the sources.
Security has been heightened in Katsina-Ala and its environs in response to growing concerns over armed herdsmen attacks and kidnapping incidents.
Troops arrest 25 suspected bandits, kidnappers in Katsina-Ala, Benue
Two killed, several injured as bandits attack vigilantes in Kwara
Security forces repel attack, reclaim villages in Bokkos LGA, Plateau
Fourteen arrested bandits confirmed loyal to notorious militia leader Konyo in Benue
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