Author: Gabby

The kidnapped principal of a school in Oyo State, Mrs. Alamu, has issued a heartfelt plea through a newly released video, calling on the government, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and President Bola Tinubu to intervene urgently. In the footage, she describes the captives’ dire conditions, noting that teachers and students have endured extreme weather—both cold and heat—for weeks while in the hands of their abductors.

Mrs. Alamu also revealed that the kidnappers have grown increasingly restless and have threatened to kill one of the hostages following a previous rescue attempt that failed. She implored authorities and the public to help secure their release before matters escalate further.

“Please, help us. I am calling on the NUT to negotiate with them. Do not use force. All they need to do is talk and set us free. We are in the cold and under the sun. We are begging you,” she said in the video.

Background: On May 15, 2026, armed men abducted several pupils and teachers from the communities of Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State. A similar abduction occurred around the same time in Askira-Uba Local Government Area, Borno State, resulting in over 40 students being taken. Tragically, one of the captives, teacher Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed by the kidnappers.

During his third anniversary address at Umuahia Township Stadium, Abia State Governor Alex Otti disclosed the extent of criminal domination his administration faced upon taking office. He stated that kidnappers, armed robbers, and other gangs had established camps in forests, from where they terrorized local residents, causing widespread fear and displacement.

Otti highlighted that through effective collaboration with security agencies, the state government successfully reclaimed these areas, restoring peace and order. He commended security heads and traditional rulers for their pivotal roles in this achievement and urged citizens to continue providing actionable intelligence to sustain the fight against crime.

In addition to security gains, Otti noted that his administration cleared 2,997 truckloads of refuse from the streets shortly after assuming power in 2023, mitigating environmental pollution and health risks. He also emphasized that civil servants and pensioners no longer face delays in receiving salaries and pensions, contrasting with past hardships.

Expressing gratitude for public support, the governor assured that state resources would be managed prudently and never squandered on frivolities. He called on Abians to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to maintain the improved security situation.

Benue State is experiencing a revival under his watch, Governor Hyacinth Alia asserted during the third anniversary of his administration. Speaking at a gathering in Makurdi on Friday, he described his tenure as a journey marked by bold decisions, sacrifice, and measurable progress.

Alia acknowledged the daunting challenges inherited upon assuming office in 2023, including widespread insecurity, crumbling infrastructure, unpaid salaries, pension arrears, weakened institutions, and eroded public trust. He noted that his government has worked tirelessly to reverse these setbacks.

The governor outlined significant strides in security, revealing that 150 Hilux vehicles and over 600 motorcycles have been deployed to support security agencies, especially in remote areas. He also highlighted the creation of the Civil Protection Guards and a joint security initiative called “Anyam Nyor” to bolster crime-fighting efforts. Alia thanked President Bola Tinubu for federal support, adding that many internally displaced persons are gradually returning to their communities.

On fiscal management, Alia said regular salary payments have been restored through prudent resource management and fiscal discipline. Pension reforms, he added, are restoring hope among retirees. “A motivated workforce is essential for productivity and efficient service,” he stated.

Infrastructure development has been a key focus, with over 50 intra-city roads completed and another 50 under construction. The governor also reported that about 370 kilometers of rural roads have been built, and the Makurdi and Gboko interchanges are finished, with the Otukpo interchange set to begin soon. A four-kilometer drainage channel alleviating flooding in Makurdi, along with 30 modern drainage systems statewide, were completed. The “Project Light-Up Makurdi” initiative has installed solar streetlights to enhance security and nighttime economic activity.

In education and health, Alia announced that more than 400 school buildings were renovated or newly constructed, and over 9,700 teachers and 500 health workers were employed. Upgrades at the Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi are transforming it into a medical tourism destination.

Agricultural and industrial initiatives include a tractor assembly workshop that has trained over 200 youths. The $250 million National Food City Complex in Otukpo is progressing and expected to create more than 20,000 jobs. Additionally, the Food Basket Brewery and a fruit juice processing company have been established to spur industrial growth.

For technology and digital development, over 10,000 youths received digital skills training, and about 40,000 civil servants are undergoing training in e-governance and ICT. “One thing is undeniable—Benue is rising again. Hope has returned, and confidence in government is being restored,” Alia concluded, vowing to continue delivering democratic dividends.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has voiced strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as his administration reaches the three-year milestone, characterizing the government’s economic and infrastructure policies as essential moves for enduring national progress.

During a statement on Thursday celebrating Tinubu’s third year in office, Akpabio highlighted the President’s stewardship, contending that major policy moves and development projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda are starting to transform Nigeria’s economic landscape.

The Senate President referenced significant government initiatives such as the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme, the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, the introduction of CNG buses and conversion centers, tax reforms, and the finalization of the OB3 gas pipeline project as proof of the administration’s reform momentum.

According to Akpabio, even the most contentious decisions—like ending fuel subsidies and harmonizing foreign exchange rates—were tough yet essential actions aimed at building a more stable economic base.

He remarked that the boldness to tackle fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and infrastructure development despite global obstacles shows a leader dedicated to long-term prosperity rather than immediate gratification.

Akpabio also reiterated that the 10th National Assembly will continue to back the administration through legislation designed to maintain ongoing reforms.

Beyond praising the government’s accomplishments, the Senate President seemed to offer early political backing for Tinubu’s future electoral ambitions, expressing desire for the President to finish his term successfully and win upcoming elections.

This endorsement arrives amid ongoing discussions about the effects of the government’s economic policies. Supporters say the reforms are preparing the ground for future expansion, while detractors argue that increasing living costs and inflation have caused substantial suffering for many Nigerians.

Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, and his administration’s economic reforms remain some of the most impactful and closely watched policy changes in Nigeria’s modern history.

In a coordinated series of security operations, troops from Operation FANSAN YAMMA have successfully liberated 31 individuals who had been abducted and neutralized five suspected terrorists. The missions were carried out across Zamfara and Katsina states, underscoring the military’s intensified campaign against criminal elements in the region.

According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 8 Division, the rescues occurred during a targeted operation near the Bagega–Kawaye corridor in Anka Local Government Area, Zamfara. The breakthrough was achieved through a combination of precision aerial strikes by the Air Component and a subsequent ground assault on militant strongholds located west of Bagega Forest.

The freed captives, who had been held for several weeks, originated from communities in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi states. Osoba confirmed that all rescued individuals have received necessary medical care and are being processed for reunification with their families.

In a separate engagement along the Maradun–Gidan Dan Jaja axis, troops confronted and killed two militants, dismantled multiple camps, and seized locally made rifles and four motorcycles believed to have been used by the assailants.

Further operations in Katsina State saw troops intercept a group of suspects near Ruwan Godiya and along Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area, as they were reportedly preparing to launch an attack. During the clash, three militants were killed, and weapons and ammunition were recovered. One of the deceased was identified as a foot soldier affiliated with the notorious bandit leader Muhammad Fulani.

Osoba reiterated the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to maintaining relentless pressure on terrorist and criminal networks throughout the North-West, ensuring sustained offensive actions to restore peace and security.

In a bid to strengthen security operations across Niger State, Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barr. Morice Magaji, has announced a comprehensive framework designed to address deep-seated issues of public distrust and compromised intelligence. Speaking at a press conference in Minna on Friday, which marked the third anniversary of the current administration, Magaji highlighted the critical role of community confidence in ensuring effective security collaboration.

According to Magaji, one of the most pressing challenges has been the presence of informants who either leak sensitive information or betray their own communities, thereby undermining security efforts and eroding the public’s faith in the system. To counter this, the government has developed a structured approach aimed at rebuilding trust between citizens and security forces, with a strong emphasis on confidentiality and the protection of shared intelligence.

He stated: “We identified significant gaps, particularly in the level of trust within communities and in the flow of information. This necessitated the creation of a framework to restore the confidence of our people.” Magaji further assured residents that any intelligence provided would be handled with strict confidentiality, enabling security agencies to operate more effectively with reliable data.

Under the directive of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, the state has shifted to a proactive security strategy, focusing on anticipating threats before they materialize. A standing security committee, composed of various relevant agencies, has been established and convenes regularly to evaluate challenges and coordinate responses across the state. Additionally, traditional institutions have been integrated into the security architecture as primary sources of grassroots intelligence.

Community advocacy efforts have also been intensified, encouraging locals to report unusual activities, such as the stockpiling of food items, fuel, or other supplies, which may indicate impending criminal operations. Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Obed Nana, noted that the briefing was part of efforts to highlight the administration’s achievements over the past three years, with a continued focus on sustainable growth, economic prosperity, and inclusive development. He urged journalists to maintain objectivity in their reporting to foster peace and unity.