Nation

THE STATES

Published

10 years ago

October 31, 2016

Benue

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in
Benue State has alerted the public of the existence of employment racket within the command.
The NSCDC Commandant, Mr Shuaibu Jibrin, told newsmen in Makurdi that the racket had been collecting money from applicants in the guise of offering them employment into the organisation.
Jibrin, however, assured that its searchlights had already been beamed on the perpetrators while explaining that all recruitment exercises by the organisation “are properly advertised through the mass media”.
“Currently, the NSCDC is not carrying out any recruitment, the NSCDC recruits based on certain criteria and merit which is always advertised through the mass media.”

Borno

The wife of the President, Mrs Aisha Buhari, has inaugurated
the distribution of relief materials, including drugs, to families and malnourished children in Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs) camps in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The relief materials are targeted at meeting the immediate needs of the families and children suffering from malnutrition occasioned by the activities of insurgents in the State.
The relief materials were part of the items donated during the inauguration of the “Get Involved’’ initiative, which was a component of the wife of the president’s pet project, ‘The Future Assured’ Programme.
The disturbing rate of malnutrition among children in the IDPs’ camps, necessitated the distribution of the relief materials by the wife of the president.

Ekiti

Teachers and students in Ekiti State have been urged to
build on their 2016 National Examination Council (NECO) performance in future public examinations.
A retired school headmistress, Mrs Ruth Olugbamila, gave the advice in an interview with newsmen in Ikole, Ekiti State.
It would be recalled that the state emerged as the best performing state in 2016 National Examination Council (NECO) result
Olugbemila noted that the current feat by the state should be sustained and also improved upon in the 2017 West African Examination Council result “so that every Nigerian will know that Ekiti is truly Fountain of Knowledge.”

Gombe
The Gombe State Government has established 313 health
facilities providing Family Planning (FP) services.
The state Family Planning Coordinator, Mrs Rejoice Bala, said the policy was part of efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality rate in the state.
Bala spoke during a one-day workshop organised by Pathfinder International for journalists and faith based organisations in Gombe.
She said the state currently has about 556,109 women within reproductive age, yet a huge number of them die as a result of preventable complications.
The Programme Facilitator, Pathfinder International, Dr Sakina Bello, said the effort was out of concern on the threatening rate of maternal mortality and its devastating effects to the family and societal well being.

Jigawa

The Chairman of Jigawa State Revenue Board, Alhaji Ibrahim
Sani, has said that the board was set to increase the state internally generated revenue in view of dwindling federal allocations.
Sani told newsmen in Dutse that the state government was looking inward to raise revenue to meet its socio-economic responsibilities to the people.
He said that the board had blocked all channels of revenue leakages.
The chairman said that since his appointment a year ago, there had been significant improvement in revenue collection in the state.

Kaduna

A Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting at Chediya G.R.A. Zaria,
Kaduna State, has remanded 4 among 14 youth from Unguwan Kaura, Zaria-city, for alleged attempted homicide.
The Police Prosecutor, Sgt. Abubakar Ibrahim, told the court that the police received a complaint on July 6 that the accused conspired and attacked one Abdurrahman Tanimu of No. 127 Anguwar Kaura, Zaria-city.
Ibrahim added that the police arrested four of the 14 accused persons found with dangerous weapons in their possession.
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Kano

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kano State chapter,
has raised concern over the casualisation of workers and refusal by some employers in the private sector to allow unions in their establishment.
The Chairman of the NLC in the state, Alhaji Kabiru Minjibir, who disclosed this to newsmen in Kano, said that the congress would soon take action on these issues.
He said that the union had received series of complaints from workers in some private organisations in the state on this trend.
“We have come to the realisation that some of the private organisations in the state do not engage permanent staff. And such action denies the workers some of their rights and benefits after working for many years. Not having Unions also denies workers the avenue to express their grievances.”

Kebbi

A 35-member medical team from the United States of
America is providing free surgery and treatment of patients suffering from cancer and diabetes in Kebbi State.
The state’s Deputy Governor, Alhaji Samaila Yombe, told newsmen in Birnin Kebbi that the surgical operations were part of government’s efforts to provide effective service delivery to the people.
He called on the people to turn out in order to avail themselves the opportunity to be treated by the visiting doctors and nurses.
Yombe said the APC-led government would continue to redeem its campaign promises as it had started boosting the agricultural activities in the state.

Kogi

The Kogi State Immunisation Officer, Mr Amaje John, says
the state has been polio-free since 2009.
John told newsmen in Lokoja that the last wild polio case in the state was in Dekina Local Government Area in 2009, stressing that the state had not recorded any other case since then.
The immunisation officer said that the state had enough vaccines for various immunisation cases, especially the polio vaccine.
“Right now, the state is doing what we called ‘Intensifying Routenisation Activities’ in all our health facilities to strengthen immunisation of children below the age of one.

Kwara

The Kwara State Government says it will commence a
task shifting policy on health to reduce maternal mortality in the state.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Atolagbe Alege, announced this in Ilorin during the National Task Shifting Policy Dissemination meeting with stakeholders.
Alege explained that the policy would help specialised health workers take on some responsibilities of more specialised workers.
He said multiple efficiencies might arise from task shifting, given that the cadre to which tasks were shifted often required shorter training periods and lower educational qualifications.

Nasarawa
The Commissioner for Education in Nasarawa State, Mrs
Ramatu Ajuji-Abubakar, says the state government is contemplating education for prison inmates in the 2017 budget.
Ajuji-Abubakar made the disclosure in an interview with newsmen in Lafia.
According to the commissioner, the move will ensure that inmates in all federal prisons in the state are properly reformed, in line with global best practices.
She said that even though the prison is a federal government establishment, the state government is a stakeholder, hence, the desire to provide for the education of inmates.
The commissioner said the modern prison yard is supposed to be a place where inmates are reformed morally, and learn one skill or the other, and be educated.

Niger

Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Bida
chapter, has expressed delight with the Federal Ministry of Education for the release of N48 million for the payment of allowances for its members.
The ASUP Chairman, Dr Umar Saganuwan, made the disclosure in an interview with newsmen in Bida.
He said the allowances paid was from January to May and that they were still awaiting allowances of June , July, August and September.
He commended the Minister of Education, Alhaji Adamu Adamu, for the gesture.
Saganuwaný expressed displeasure with the management for reducing the allowances .

Ogun

Some students in public primary and secondary schools in
Ogun State have called on Governor Ibikunle Amosun to attend to the demands of striking workers in the state.
The students, who spoke separately in interviews with newsmen in Abeokuta, described the strike as very “unfortunate.’’
They said that the strike was already affecting their academic calendar.
An SSS 2 student of African Church Grammar School, Abeokuta, Samson Asade, called for early resolution of the crisis.
He said that their colleagues in private schools were already ahead of them, and urged the state government to cooperate with the workers to end the strike.

Ondo

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, says
it has no plans to change its governorship candidate in the November 26 election.
A press statement issued in Akure by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Banji Okunomo, said nothing will happen to the candidacy of Eyitayo Jegede (SAN).
Okunomo urged party supporters to disregard what he called ”rampaging distortion of facts and misrepresentations” on the matter by a section of the party.
“We are also in the know of the syndicated report/newsflash which aim to misinform the public as regards the status of the true PDP candidate in the fast approaching gubernatorial election in the state.”
The publicity secretary assured that the party at state and national level, is working to ensure that Jegede’s candidacy remain.

Osun
The Osun Police Command said it had arrested a member of the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), Mr Imran Olalekan, 24, for alleged rape.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, SP Folasade Odoro, disclosed this to newsmen on Thursday in Osogbo.
Odoro said that the suspect committed the offense at St. Charles High School, Osogbo.
She said that the 17-year-old victim (names withheld), is an SSS III student of the school.
She said preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect had intercourse with the victim.
The PPRO said that the suspect would be charged to court as soon as investigation into the crime was concluded.

Oyo
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Oyo State chapter, says the National Health Act, if implemented, will benefit the citizenry and solve the problems militating against the health sector.
The Chairman of the association, Dr Omolola Oladele, said this when he led a delegation to submit a letter on the issue to the Gov. Abimbola Ajimobi.
The National Health Act, which took 10 years and several readings at the National Assembly was eventually passed and signed into law in 2014.
Oladele said that the objective of the visit was to awaken the consciousness of the government to the implementation of the act and for the states to key in.
“According to her, the Act protects the right of healthcare users to receive treatment and not to be rejected in the case of accident.
Oladele said that the nation had all it takes to be great.

Nation

Army Graduates 384 Female Soldiers In Abuja

Published

2 weeks ago

October 30, 2026

The Tide

The Nigerian Army has passed out 384 female soldiers of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake (90 RRI) following the successful completion of Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 in Giri, Abuja.

In a post shared on the Nigerian Army’s X handle, yesterday, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Nigerian Army Women Command, Giri, Abuja, Major Nsima Essien, said the passing-out ceremony was held on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Giri, with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, represented by Major General Umar Gital Yusuf, as the Guest of Honour.

In his address, the Army Chief commended the female personnel for their dedication, resilience, discipline and commitment throughout the training exercise.

He described the successful completion of the exercise as an important milestone in their military careers and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to developing a professional, disciplined and combat-ready force.

He urged the newly trained soldiers to uphold the values of teamwork, courage, loyalty and professionalism, while applying the knowledge and skills acquired during the exercise to their military duties.

Shaibu emphasised the importance of continuous training, physical fitness and operational preparedness in addressing contemporary security challenges before declaring the exercise closed.

Earlier, the Acting Commander of the Nigerian Army Women Command (NAWC), Colonel S. M. Ahmed, welcomed the special guest and other dignitaries to the ceremony.

Ahmed highlighted the significance of Exercise SHINING STAR 2026 in enhancing the physical fitness, military competence, discipline and operational readiness of the female personnel.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the authorities, instructors and other personnel whose efforts ensured the successful conduct of the exercise.

Highlights of the ceremony included obstacle-crossing demonstrations and weapons-handling exercises, during which the female soldiers demonstrated their ability to strip and assemble AK-47 rifles while blindfolded.

The demonstrations showcased the personnel’s physical endurance, confidence, weapons-handling skills and proficiency in basic military tasks.

“A total of 384 female personnel of the 90 RRI participated in the exercise, alongside 14 male personnel from the Headquarters, Directorate of Army Physical Training (HQ DAPT), and 70 male personnel from the 167 Special Forces Battalion, “ Ahmed said.

The ceremony attracted senior military officers from various units and formations, representatives of paramilitary agencies and other invited guests.

Eight male and female personnel who distinguished themselves during the exercise received awards presented by the Acting Commander of NAWC.

The event also featured a vote of thanks delivered by one of the beneficiaries, the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph to commemorate the successful completion of the exercise.

The exercise forms part of the Nigerian Army’s efforts to strengthen personnel development, improve military competence and enhance operational readiness in response to the country’s evolving security challenges.

Nation

IDGC: Group Takes Campaign To PH Schools

Published

4 weeks ago

October 16, 2026

The Tide

As the world marked the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child on Sunday, October 11, 2026, a non-governmental organisation, Stand Up for Women Society (SWS) has intensified its campaign against child marriage, urging schoolgirls to prioritise education, protect their rights and develop skills for a better future.
The organisation joined the global observance of the day under the theme, “International Day of the Girl Child: End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,” with a sensitisation programme at Government Girls Secondary School, Oromenike, D-Line, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Led by its Vice Chairperson, Daba Benebo, the group engaged the students in discussions on the dangers of early marriage, teenage pregnancy, sexual abuse and other challenges that threaten the education, safety and development of the girl child.
Speaking during the programme, Benebo urged the students to reject early marriage and remain focused on their studies, stressing that education would empower them to make informed decisions about their lives and future.
She cautioned the girls against allowing anyone to deprive them of their right to education and dignity, advising them to report cases of harassment, abuse and other violations of their rights to the appropriate authorities.
Benebo assured the students that SWS remained available to support them whenever they encountered violations of their rights.
She also encouraged them to maintain discipline and responsible conduct while avoiding behaviours that could expose them to negative influences and jeopardise their future.
Beyond formal education, the SWS vice chairperson urged the students to acquire vocational skills that could provide additional opportunities for economic independence and help them navigate future challenges.
The sensitisation programme, enlivened by singing, dancing and to share their views and experiences on issues affecting the girl child interactive sessions, provided an opportunity for the students to share their views and experiences on issues affecting the girl child.
One of the major issues raised during the discussion was the appropriate age for marriage. While some participants maintained that 18 years was the constitutionally approved age, the discussion highlighted the need to consider not only age but also the maturity, preparedness and responsibilities associated with marriage.

The speaker stressed that marriage required adequate mental and emotional preparation, as well as the capacity to shoulder its responsibilities.
She therefore advised the students to concentrate on acquiring a sound education before considering marriage, noting that education would equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to make responsible decisions and manage family life.
The issue of teenage pregnancy also featured prominently during the question-and-answer session.
In addressing the subject, the speaker explained that pregnancy could occur even at the age of 12, using the example to underscore the vulnerability of young girls to the consequences of early sexual activity.
She advised the students to avoid sexual intercourse and prioritise their education, personal safety and future aspirations.
The discussion also examined the difficulties some girls encounter when living with hostile spouses, relatives or guardians.
Benebo encouraged the students to cultivate patience, humility and diligence, noting that these qualities could help them navigate difficult situations and build a brighter future.
However, she warned that patience and humility should never be interpreted as an obligation to endure violence, abuse or degrading treatment.
She urged girls experiencing hostile or abusive living conditions to seek help from their parents, trusted adults or appropriate support services rather than remain in environments that could expose them to physical or emotional trauma.
“When such happens, please return to your parents and engage in petty trade or learn a skill to support your education rather than stay in a hostile environment,” Benebo stressed.
The programme also underscored the importance of protecting girls from early marriage and other harmful practices that can disrupt their education, compromise their well-being and limit their opportunities in life.
It also reinforced the need for families, schools, communities and relevant organisations to work together to ensure that girls have access to education, vocational training, protection and the support they need to realise their potential.
For SWS, the message was clear: empowering the girl child begins with protecting her rights, investing in her education and equipping her with the confidence and skills to make informed choices about her future.

Stories by Kevin Nengia

Nation

Foundation Unveils Intra-Kalabari Mass Transit Scheme

Published

4 weeks ago

October 16, 2026

The Tide

The Egberipapa Foundation has unveiled a mass transit scheme aimed at easing transportation difficulties and improving connectivity among communities in the three Kalabari local government areas of Asari-Toru, Degema and Akuku-Toru in Rivers State.
The initiative, established by former Caretaker Committee Chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Council, High Chief Sobomabo Jackrich, popularly known as Egberipapa, is designed to make transportation more accessible and affordable for residents across the Kalabari area.
The scheme was launched on Monday, October 12, 2026, and is expected to address longstanding transportation challenges confronting residents, particularly those in riverine and hard-to-reach communities.
Communities expected to benefit from the initiative include Krakrama, Minama, Angulama, Sangama, Omekwe-Tariama and Omekwe-Ama.
The project is expected to ease movement within and beyond the Central Group area, while providing residents with a more convenient means of transportation for their daily activities.
For decades, transportation difficulties have posed significant challenges to several Kalabari communities, making movement between settlements both cumbersome and expensive. These challenges have also affected commercial activities, social interactions and access to essential services.
The introduction of the mass transit scheme is therefore expected to provide relief to residents, strengthen inter-community connections and stimulate economic activities across the benefiting communities.
Beyond improving mobility, the initiative could contribute to community development by facilitating the movement of people and goods, supporting local businesses and enhancing social and economic interactions within the Kalabari area.
As the scheme gets underway, attention will be focused on its implementation, accessibility and sustainability, as well as its capacity to deliver lasting transportation benefits to the target communities.
The initiative represents a potentially significant step towards addressing transportation challenges and promoting grassroots development across the Kalabari Kingdom.