DEPOWA President supports wounded-in-action soldiers in Kaduna


Tuggar made the call on Friday in Abuja, responding to a reported social media post by the U.S. Embassy, Abuja, concerning Nigeria’s security situation.
In a statement issued by ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Tuggar expressed concern over recent remarks by Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and Reverend Father Remigius Ihyula.
Their testimonies during the U.S. Congressional Hearing on Religious Persecution in Nigeria reportedly highlighted threats faced following their appearance at the hearing.
Tuggar said although their views oversimplify a complex national issue, the clerics are entitled to freedom of expression and association under Nigeria’s constitution.
He added: “The claim that the Nigerian government has allowed violence to escalate unchecked is both inaccurate and unfair.”
The minister explained that the government has consistently taken action, including deploying security forces to areas impacted by communal violence.
It has also implemented peace-building initiatives between farmers and herders, improved intelligence gathering and introduced land reforms and economic development programmes.
He stressed that it is wrong to suggest the government is inactive amid various threats, including banditry, terrorism and organised crime affecting diverse communities.
According to him, the government remains committed to protecting freedom of religion and expression, promising to investigate threats against religious leaders.
“Nigeria values its partnership with the U.S. and other global allies in tackling security challenges,” Tuggar noted.
He urged caution against narratives that deepen religious divides or misrepresent the country’s situation, and not encouraging support for peacebuilding efforts.
Tuggar added: “While Nigeria acknowledges concerns raised, it firmly rejects portrayals of the crisis as an ‘Islamist extermination’ of Christians.”
He reaffirmed government’s priority to protecting all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity, through national and international security cooperation.
“We urge responsible reporting that captures the complexity of the situation and promotes constructive dialogue rather than polarisation,” Tuggar said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
By Sumaila Ogbaje
Dr John Metchie, Traditional Prime Minister, Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), says that fake native doctors in the state have deceived many youths into various heinous crimes.
Metchie, who is the Deputy Commander-General of Nigeria Forest Security Service, said this in an interview with newsmen in Abuja.
He commended Gov. Charles Soludo for his efforts towards saving the youths from decadence occasioned by get rich quick syndrome.
He said what the level of societal decay in Anambra would have degenerated if Soludo had not intervened when he did.
Metchie lamented the case of drug trafficking involving 23 Anambra indigenes, who had already been convicted and on death row in Indonesia.
According to him, the governor, addressing this issue recently, attributed the problem to the activities of fake native doctors, whom his government has outlawed.
“Soludo raised alarm over the rising number of young indigenes of the state falling victims of drug trafficking scams.
“The Governor heaped the blame on deceptive native doctors, who misled these youths with false promises of supernatural protection.
“Governor Soludo’s mandate needs to be renewed for another four year-term to enable him consolidate on the current reforms.
“Soludo has demonstrated both capacity and competence in reformation and physical development for better positioning of Anambra and our people in Nigeria and internationally,” he said.
Metchie said that the determination of the governor to protect the moral and social fabric of Anambra could best be described as overwhelming, adding that those destroying the society did not see the cleansing waves.
According to him, Soludo had revealed that the 23 Anambra indigenes on death row in Indonesia for drug-related offences were manipulated by self-proclaimed native doctors.
He quoted Soludo as saying that the native doctors sold to the affected youths the dangerous belief that charms could render airport security systems ineffective.
“The governor has condemned the surge in get rich quick approach to life and fetish practices, particularly the rise of “oke ite” (money ritual) peddlers who promote the illusion of instant wealth without hard work.
“He warned that anyone caught making false spiritual claims or promoting illicit wealth schemes would be arrested.
“The governor has drawn a clear line between genuine traditional worship and fraudulent practices, noting that traditionalists of old were among the most upright who believed the gods would punish wrongdoing,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
By Rita Iliya
The Niger Government has received 17 kidnapped victims handed over to the government by the police command in the state.
Deputy Governor of the state, Mr Yakubu Garba, received the victims on behalf of Gov. Umaru Bago at the police headquarters in Minna on Friday.
He disclosed that the victims were rescued by operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
Garba said the victims were from Wuloto and Kango Communities under Kuchi Ward in Muyan Local Government of Niger.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his efforts at reducing insecurity in the country and the National Security Adviser for coordinating security efforts.
He also appreciated the Kaduna State Government and the police for their humanitarian efforts in assessing the victims’ psychological health before handing them over.
He said that the incident highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration, as the victims were rescued in Kaduna and returned to Niger State.
Garba urged the police to intensify efforts to combat insecurity and encouraged citizens to support Gov. Bago in prayers.
“The success of Bago-led administration is a blessing to the people.
“Within two years, insecurity and youth restiveness have reduced in the state and the governor needs our prayers and support to succeed.
“We appeal to parents and relatives of the victims to be patient and not rush to take them away.
“Their lives and health condition must be ascertained before handing them over to their parents,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr Adamu Elleman, the newly appointed Police Commissioner in Niger, noted that the victims were 11 females and six males, from Wuloto Village in Kuchi, Sarkin-Pawa, Munya LGA.
He attributed the successful rescue to a non-kinetic method showcasing the police’s strategic approach to combating crime.
Elleman pledged to rid the state of criminal elements and vowed to intensify efforts to eliminate crime in the state through constant patrols, stop-and-search operations, and arrests.
He assured that criminals would face justice, adding that, “I will not relent; I will ensure they are brought to book.”
One of the victims, Victoria Ishaya, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that 15 of them were kidnapped from one household.
“We were kidnapped about six months ago; our abductors came in the midnight took us and crossed the river with us to one place in Kaduna,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yetunde Fatungase/Joe Idika
By Abiodun Abegunde
Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO), on Thursday in Lagos, commenced a two-day training for officers of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS).
The training with funding from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC ) is with the theme: “Strengthening the Capacity of Correctional Officers Towards Advancing the Implementation of Non-Custodial Measures”.
Speaking at the opening of the training, Dr Uju Agomoh, President, PRAWA, said the focus of the NGO was on issues bordering on justice sector reforms, adding that the organisation had done quite a lot around correctional services.
She said that the training would look at challenges such as over crowding in custodian centres among other problems.
She noted that participants of the training were officers from the correctional services, working in the community sector called non-custodial.
“The Nigerian Correctional Services should encourage every step they need to take to ensure they give support to the non custodial directorate as a unit of the NCoS.
In her remarks, Ijimakinwa Ajibola, State Project Coordinator, RoLAC, Lagos, said that during the first phase of the programme which ended in 2023, the organisation supported PRAWA to implement non custodial solutions in the NCoS.
Ijimakinwa said that this second round of funding to PRAWA, was about advancing the implementation.
“As we know, community service has been entrenched in most of our states, there are still some other measures and solutions that have yet to be advanced like parole, suspended sentencing, restorative justice and probation.
“The essence of the support is to ensure that other non custodial measures are implemented in all our focal states which are Anambra, Edo, Pleatue, Abia, and Lagos.
“PRAWA has been a CSO on ground that has done the ground work as per ensuring that the Act was passed in 2019, so of course it is important that they are part of the implementation process” she said.
Similarly, the state Controller, Nigerian Correctional Service, Lagos Command, George Daramola, said in 2019, NCoS was restructured into two distinct entities; Custodial and Non-Custodial Services.
Daramola said that the establishment of Non-Custodial service was a strategic decision aimed at decongesting custodial centers while ensuring that offenders receive appropriate interventions to aid their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
He said that NCoS was particularly happy about enhancing the understanding of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019 and exploring effective ways to incorporate non-custodial measures into the nation’s justice system.
He added that the focal points of the training; community service, restorative justice, parole, probation and other non-custodial solutions were integral to the ongoing reform efforts within correctional framework.
The controller said that critical discussion surrounding the reduction of overcrowding, as well as the reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders were of paramount important to NCS.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deborah Coker
By Ibironke Ariyo
The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, on Thursday called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to empower young women and advance national development.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim made the call in Abuja at the opening ceremony of a three-day royal ambassadors gathering week 2025 with the theme, “Building Global Partnership for sustainable impacts, Innovations and development.”
The minister, who was represented by a Director in the Ministry , Dr Mrs Ola Erinfolami, emphasised that empowering young women remained critical to the nation’s growth and progress.
She acknowledged the ministry’s achievements in promoting gender equality, development and peace, noting that more work must be done to close existing gaps.
“Young women continue to face challenges in education, economic opportunities, healthcare and leadership.
“It is our responsibility to address these disparities and create an enabling environment for women to thrive,” she said.
The minister, however, outlined four key areas of focus in the ministry’s agenda to include access to quality education and skills training, supporting entrepreneurship and job creation.
This, she also said, includes ensuring healthcare access, promoting well-being and encouraging women’s participation in leadership and decision-making.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting policies and programmes that empowered young women, adding that collaboration with stakeholders remained vital.
“I urge all stakeholders to join us in this effort. Let’s work together to empower more young women and create a brighter future for our nation,” she added.
In his opening remarks, the Founder and Director-General of the Royal Ambassadors Family Enlightenment Foundation (RAFEF), Jonathan Okwudiri, called for stronger global partnerships to drive sustainable development and innovation in Nigeria.
Okwudiri, who doubled as the convener of the event stressed that unity, collaboration and collective action were crucial in achieving national progress.
He said that in a world where challenges like poverty, unemployment, food insecurity and social inequality threatened the collective future, the need for action had never been greater.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the RAFEF, Green Revolution Farmers Feed the Nation Foundation (GRFFNF), and Young Women Rise Empowerment Initiative (YWREI) are the three NGOs working to reshape the society.
These are done through strategic empowerment, economic development and social transformation.
The groups are also dedicated to poverty eradication (SDG 1), quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and zero hunger (SDG 2).
Okwudiri, who oversees a network of over one million women and youths across the 36 states and the FCT, said that the NGO was a formidable force dedicated to nation-building through empowerment, agriculture, and youth development.
He announced the launch of major initiatives under the GRFFNF, including Operation Feed the Nation, inaugurated in December 2024, and the Green Rewards Smart Farm Settlement (GRSFS), aimed at providing employment opportunities for one million Nigerians.
He said that the group’s Agricultural Farming Project Fund and Empowerment Scheme would provide financial grants to farmers to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
“This gathering is a testament to the power of collaboration. As Royal Ambassadors, we are determined to work with visionary partners to create lasting impacts,” he said.
Okwudiri also highlighted the achievements of the RAFEF in training over 1,000 women and youths in entrepreneurial skills, seeking partnerships and support to enable the trainees to start their businesses.
He reiterated the organisation’s readiness to align with President Bola Tinubu’s administration policy, particularly the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focused on promoting agricultural development, food security, and job creation.
“As nation-builders, we support any leader who prioritises the empowerment of women and youth. Together, we can shape the future of our country,” Okwudiri said.
Okwudiri commended the Board of Trustees, management teams, and the media for their contributions to the growth of the organisations and urged participants to use the gathering to connect, learn, and collaborate.
“We are not just here to celebrate; we are here to build. Let us rise to the challenge and create the future we envision,” he said.
The event also features the inauguration of the National and State Executive Officers of the Young Women Rise Empowerment and Support Initiative (YWRESI) and the crowning of Miss Global Royalty Africa 2025.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Maureen Ojinaka and Yakubu Uba
By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chairman of Pakistani Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Gen. Shahir Mirza, has commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria, for its efforts in the fight against terrorism, insurgency and other forms of insecurity.
Mirza gave the commendation during a visit to his Nigerian counterpart, Gen. Christopher Musa at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
The Pakistani Chief also appreciated the long-standing mutual relationship between Nigeria and Pakistan, adding that both countries shared similarity in culture, religion and other diversity.
He also described Nigeria as a giant leader in Africa, with a geo-strategic importance to Pakistan.
Mirza maintained that both countries shared similar experiences in fighting terrorism, insurgency, and other forms of insecurity.
He said that the Pakistani military looked forward to a robust partnership with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).
In his response, Nigeria’s defence chief, Gen. Musa thanked the Pakistani defence chief for the visit and assured him that the Nigerian military would continue to build capacity in collaboration with the Pakistani Armed Forces.
The CDS emphasised the importance of strategic collaboration between the two countries in the areas of training, particularly, Special Forces Training, management of Veteran Affairs, border security and intelligence sharing among others.
According to him, these collaborative efforts have so far ensured the training of over two thousand officers in various Pakistani military institutions. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
By Ibironke Ariyo
During the inauguration of new facilities at FRSC headquarters on Thursday in Abuja, Plang expressed satisfaction with the Corps’ ongoing transformation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the facilities inaugurated include an ICT hall, fourth-floor lobby, data collection centre, reception, and call centres.
Sen. Diket Plang with the FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed and the Executive Chairman, Federal Character Commission, Dr Muheeba Dankaba
Plang said he had visited the Corps on several occasions and was consistently impressed by its rapid development and achievements.
He recalled that the ICT training centre was once only a proposal and praised management for making it a reality.
He described the newly inaugurated ICT hall as “unprecedented” in both quality and execution.
“I’ve visited at different times, and I’m always amazed by the pace of change,” the Senator said.
Plang also highlighted the new digital gate and operational efficiency of FRSC Radio 107.1 FM as key achievements.
He praised the station’s clear signal, strong reception, and the professionalism of staff who transitioned from safety officers to broadcasters.
“I see teamwork, dedication, and joy. It clearly reflects inclusive leadership, innovation, and progress,” he emphasised.
Speaking on behalf of the 10th Senate, Plang commended the FRSC leadership, management, and staff for their commitment and service.
He stressed the vital role land transportation plays in Nigeria’s economy as the most widely used mode of travel.
“There are no roads in the sky. Most goods and people move on land.
“Our economy depends greatly on moving goods efficiently across the country,” Plang noted.
He described the Corps’ digital transformation as timely, especially in enhancing public education through ICT and radio.
Plang pledged the Senate’s continued legislative and financial support to help the FRSC fulfil its mandates effectively.
On staff welfare, he stressed that leadership must go beyond paying salaries to investing in staff development and training.
“Knowledge is power. If we work together and share ideas, Nigeria will progress,” he maintained.
Plang praised President Bola Tinubu’s recent approval of the new minimum wage, calling it a welcome development.
He, however, said leaders must also create friendly and accessible work environments for better productivity.
“Accessible leadership boosts morale. Let’s foster environments where feedback is valued and appreciation is shown,” he added.
He advised that outstanding staff should be rewarded not just with money, but also with commendation letters and awards.
He urged FRSC leadership to continue recognising hardworking staff and sector commanders across the country.
“Even a written commendation lasts longer than spoken praise. It inspires and motivates more effort,” he said.
Earlier, FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, reiterated the Corps’ support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
Mohammed thanked the President for the opportunity to serve and contribute to national growth and development.
“Our first step is to provide a conducive environment to motivate and enhance staff productivity,” he stated.
He listed completed and ongoing projects, showing FRSC’s commitment to development and staff welfare.
He noted the completion of Kaduna Zonal Command and ongoing works in Benue, Osogbo, and Yobe sectors.
“These projects will be commissioned as soon as they’re completed,” he assured.
Mohammed said the goal is to make a strong first impression that reflects professionalism and dedication.
He thanked stakeholders for their support and pledged the FRSC would maintain its focus on delivering excellent service. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
By Sumaila Ogbaje
Peace, Security and Development Initiatives (PSDI), a Civil Society Organisations, has urged Nigerians to stop politicising the prevailing security challenges bedeviling the country.
The Publicity Secretary of PSDI, Amechi Oyema, made the call while briefing newsmen on the State of the nation with the theme “Unholy Attempt to Politicise Security Challenges”, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Oyema said that President Bola Tinubu had continued to provide the needed support to the Armed forces of Nigeria and other security agencies to be able to deliver on their mandates.
He alleged that some politicians had decided to politicise the security challenges, adding that they would want the crisis to persist and go out of hand.
“Just recently, when 16 Kano-bound hunters were lynched in Uromi, a prominent politician condemned the killings, and demanded probe.
“Fast-forward to the massacre of 60 Plateau villagers, the same politician immediately faulted Tinubu’s security architecture, as if Uromi had a specially designed security architecture.
“Another attempt to politicise the security challenges is the recent divine intervention that led to the rescue of the former Director-General of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC), retired Brig.-Gen. Maharazu Tsiga.
“Rather than appreciating God and the Armed Forces of Nigeria for the rescue, some have decided to give a different narrative aimed at portraying the government and the Armed Forces of Nigeria as a failure.
“This set of politicians have refused to see anything good in the present administration, hence they will turn their face from the several laudable efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said.
Oyema urged politicians to stop demoralising the troops who are making sacrifices to keep the country safe.
According to him, some of them would rather see the country in flames so they can have an avenue to attack the administration.
He called on politicians to show statesmanship in their approach and support the armed forces to defeat the enemies of the country.
According to him, terrorists, bandits and other criminals are surrendering in droves while some stubborn ones are being killed.
“We use this opportunity to advise especially our youths to shun all negative vices and this set of politicians who have their children abroad but would always want to use innocent youths at home to foment trouble.
“Be aware that the military is equal to the task and you won’t go scot free if you allow desperate politicians to use you.
“We want to quote Brig.-Gen. Tsiga who said, “we should not sit down and believe that the government can do it alone. We must do it ourselves,” Oyema added. (NAN)
Edited by Yakubu Uba