Nation

THE STATES

Published

10 years ago

April 7, 2017

Bauchi
The Bauchi State Police Command says it has arrested over 150 suspected thugs popularly called Sara Suka within seven days.
According to a statement signed on Monday by the State Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Garba Umar, the arrest followed renewed strategies perfected by the command.
Umar said that the suspects were arrested at various black spots within the Bauchi metropolis.
He said that knives, machetes Shisha pots, packets of Tramadol tablets and other assorted drugs, suspected to be hard drugs were recovered from the suspects.
According to him, other items recovered include, seven packet of vulcanising solutions, 34 wraps of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp and six motorcycles suspected to be stolen.
Umar noted that some self-centered politicians in the state had perfected plans to disrupt the prevailing relative peace in the state their selfish interests.

Benue
Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue has commended the Nigerian Military for effectively tackling insurgency in the North-East.
Ortom made the commendation in Makurdi on Tuesday when the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal, Sadique Abubakar, visited him.
He said that posterity would not forget the military personnel who paid the supreme price for the country.
Ortom commended President Muhammadu Buhari for giving topmost priority to security in his administration.
He urged all security agencies in the country to work together for the overall benefit of the society.
The governor urged the people of the state to always provide intelligence reports to the security agencies to assist them to fight crime.

Borno
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) said last Tuesday that it was working towards re-opening of its Orientation Camp in Maiduguri following return of relative peace to the State.
Director- General of NYSC, Brig:-Gen. Suleiman Kazaure, gave the hint while speaking with newsmen in Maiduguri.
Kazaure said NYSC was eager to re-open the camp following the return of peace to the state ravaged by the Boko Haram insurgency.
“There is relative peace now in the state, so we will like to come back as soon as possible. Remember, the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are still occupying the Orientation Camp”, he said.
Kazaure said the camp would be re-opened once the IDPs were evacuated from it.
” It is only in Borno that our corps members have yet to have their orientation camp in place.

FCT
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has decried the alleged rape of a 15-year-old girl by a traditional ruler in Katsina State.
The commission also described as worrisome the reported defilement of a seven-month-old baby by her 55-year-old stepfather in Musawa Local Government Area of the state.
The acting Executive Secretary of the commission, Mrs Oti Ovrawah, made the assertion in a statement signed by the commission’s Chief Press Officer, Fatimah Mohammad, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Ovrawah called on the Katsina State Government to ensure that the traditional ruler and the step-father were investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law to serve as deterrent to other Nigerians.
She called on the Police, judiciary and other stakeholders to be more diligent in ensuring that all reported cases of rape were thoroughly investigated.

Jigawa
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Jigawa says it has arrested 27 suspects, including six nationals of Niger Republic, for allegedly burning down its office in Maigatari Local Government Area of the state.
The corps’ spokesman, Mr Adamu Abdullahi, confirmed the arrest to newsmen in Dutse last Tuesday.
Some suspected hoodlums had on March 30 allegedly razed down the NSCDC’s office in Maigatari town.
“As I told you the other time, we had identified those suspected to have participated in burning down our office in Maigatari.
“So, yesterday in the night, we sent our men to the area and were able to arrest 27 suspects”, he said.

Kaduna
The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) last Tuesday said it had evacuated no fewer than 139 destitutes from Kaduna metropolis between March 17 and April 3.
The command’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Orndiir Terzungwe, told newsmen in Kaduna that the age of the destitutes ranged from Six to 17 years.
Terzungwe said that the destitutes were initially kept at the State Rehabilitation Centre in Makera, Kaduna South Local Government Area, but were finally taken to Makarfi.
“Those who are from the state have been moved to Makarfi rehabilitation camp in Makarfi Local Government Area, where they will be properly rehabilitated.
“After rehabilitation those from the State will be taken to their local government areas of origin.

Kano
The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, Mr Rabiu Yusuf, has warned officers and men against demanding for money or any form of favour before granting bail to the suspects.
Yusuf also cautioned them against illegal investigation of cases, unlawful detention of suspects and prolonged detention, saying that they should respect human rights in the course of all investigations.
The police chief spoke at a lecture/ parade with officers and men working at State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Divisional Crime Officers and Investigation Police Officers (IPOs) in the state.
Yusuf, according to a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Magaji Majiya, said that the era of bribery and corruption was over in the police circle.

Katsina
The Police Command in Katsina State has warned against acts that could portray its officers and men in bad light.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Alhaji Abdullahi Usman, gave the warning while addressing police officers and men at Mai’adua on Tuesday.
Usman said he would sanction any officer found to have indulged in behaviours that could damage the reputation of the police.
He, however, assured them that their welfare would be taken care of ” to motivate you for effective performance”.
He urged the Mai’adua Local Government to report activities of criminals in the area to police for prompt action.
The commissioner lauded the Federal Government over the recent recruitment of 10,000 policemen which he said would enhance effective policing.

Kogi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) last Tuesday said its decision on the November 21, 2015 governorship election in Kogi was not influenced by any external force.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, stated this while responding to issues at a stakeholders’ conference organised by the commission to validate its 2017-2021 Strategic Plan in Abuja.
Yakubu said that it was untrue that INEC’s decision to allow a particular political party to contest the election without a running mate for its candidate was at the instance of Attorney-General of the Federation.
He said that the election held on a Saturday had already been declared inconclusive before the All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate, Chief Abubakar Audu, died on Sunday.

Lagos
The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) has called for removal of the inscription “Bail is Free” from police stations and law courts, saying that it is misleading.
In a statement in Lagos on Tuesday, the state Chairman of CLO, Mr Ehi Omokhuale, said that bail had not been free, and that the public should be properly informed.
“The CLO upholds that the “Bail is Free” inscription in our police stations and law courts is not only an institutionalised fraud against the citizenry, but a practice that makes our human rights stance a laughing stock in the eyes of the civilised world.
“We demand, therefore, that bail fees charged by the police and our law courts for the different offences should be published and the “Bail is Free” inscription replaced with “Bail Fees” Omokhuale said.
He also called on the state police command, local governments in the state and Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA) to curb extortion among their men and agents.

Niger
The Child Right Protection Agency in Niger last Tuesday received a 9-year-old boy found sleeping on the street in Minna from a good Samaritan, Malam Umar Tanko.
Tanko, who presented the boy to the Agency said the boy was found along Bosso Road, Bosso Local Government Area in Niger.
Tanko said the boy, found with bruises on his body, identified himself as Bayo from Ogun.
He said Bayo, who speaks only Yoruba, was seen sleeping in front of a shop near his house on March 29.
“When I asked what he was doing outside at night, he responded in Yoruba. I don’t understand the language, so, I called my younger brother who interpreted what the boy was saying.

Ogun
The Ogun State Government is to amend the law establishing Tai Solarin College of Education (TASCE), Omu- Ijebu.
Chairman, Ogun State House Committee on Education, Mr Victor Fasanya, said this during oversight visit to the institution on Tuesday.
He explained that the aim was to address the issue of two state institutions named after the late social crusader, Tai Solarin.
He added that the amendment was to effect adjustment in the institution’s name in fulfilment of the recommendations of the National Council of Colleges of Education accreditation team.
According to him, this is to ensure full accreditation of all programmes run by the institution.
The lawmaker commended the management of the institution for upgrading its facilities which had aided teaching and learning as well as adding beauty to the college.

Sokoto
Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State last Tuesday day approved the appointment of Alhaji Chika Sanyinna as the new General Manager of the State Transport Company (SSTA).
The governor also approved the appointment of six new Director-Generals including the immediate past General Manager of the transport company, Alhaji Ladan Balarabe.
According to a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Malam Imam Imam in Sokoto, the governor urged Sanyinna to reposition the company and make it a model.
He also urged him to justify his appointment by adopting innovative measures that would enhance the growth and development of transport sector in the state.

Nation

Army Graduates 384 Female Soldiers In Abuja

Published

3 days 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

2 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

2 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.