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CDS, COAS Arrive Maiduguri for Operational Assessment

Mosunmola Ore
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0
CDS, COAS Arrive Maiduguri for Operational Assessment

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, have arrived in Maiduguri on an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command of Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI.

The high-level visit comes barely 24 hours after recent suicide bomb incidents within the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, underscoring renewed military focus on strengthening security and counter-terrorism efforts in the region.

Addressing officers and troops at the Maimalari Cantonment, the CDS commended the troops for their resilience, sacrifice, and sustained operational pressure against terrorist elements across the theatre. He charged personnel to remain fully committed and resolute in the execution of their duties.

In line with the need to consolidate gains and prevent a recurrence of recent incidents, General Oluyede directed commanders to intensify offensive operations against terrorist elements, strengthen intelligence architecture, and adopt innovative and proactive strategies to dominate the battle space.

He emphasised the imperative of maintaining operational momentum and assured troops of sustained strategic support from Defence Headquarters towards achieving the decisive defeat of terrorism.

Speaking subsequently, the COAS also commended the troops for their unwavering dedication, doggedness, and consistent pressure on the adversary.

He charged the field commanders to sustain and intensify ongoing offensive operations, while institutionalising a firm “never again” posture to deny terrorist elements any operational space or opportunity to strike, particularly during critical periods such as Ramadan and beyond.

The COAS further assured the Theatre Command of additional support and critical enablers to enhance operational effectiveness, strengthen force protection, and reinforce the ongoing intensified offensive across the theatre.

Earlier, the Theatre Commander presented a comprehensive operational brief on activities within the Joint Operations Area, highlighting ongoing engagements, operational challenges, and recent successes.

He noted that despite isolated setbacks, troops have continued to dominate the battlespace through sustained offensive actions with utmost commitment and professionalism.

He disclosed that over 200 terrorist elements were neutralised in recent operations, while several others sustained severe injuries, significantly degrading their combat capability and preventing their return to the battlefield.

The Theatre Commander reaffirmed that OPHK troops remain resolute, undeterred, and fully committed to sustaining intensified offensive operations aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action and restoring enduring peace and economic stability across the North East region.

 

First Power Seeks Partnership to Improve Supply

Mosunmola Ore
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First Power Seeks Partnership to Improve Supply

First Power Electricity Distribution Company Limited (FirstPower) has announced plans to reduce its dependence on Nigeria’s national grid by developing embedded power generation in Anambra State, part of a broader strategy to stabilise electricity supply and improve service delivery.

The initiative, to be executed in partnership with private sector investors, is expected to provide alternative energy sources to complement grid supply and address persistent challenges such as generation shortfalls, transmission constraints and funding gaps across Nigeria’s power sector.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FirstPower, formerly the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), Engr. Okechukwu Okafor disclosed this at the company’s 2026 Customer Engagement Programme themed “Stakeholder Engagement for Customers in Awka/Abagana,” held in Awka, the state capital.

Okafor acknowledged growing customer frustration over erratic electricity supply, noting that Anambra State experienced a significant drop in energy allocation in late 2025, receiving only about 45 per cent of its usual supply between November and December due to reduced generation capacity, largely linked to gas supply constraints. Although there has been a slight improvement in recent months, he said supply remains unstable.

He explained that electricity distribution companies operate at the end of the value chain and depend entirely on power generated and transmitted by upstream operators.

Revenue collected from customers, he added, is used to sustain the entire system, including generation, transmission and gas supply.
“Any disruption along the value chain ultimately affects supply to consumers. Without adequate funding across the system, electricity delivery cannot be sustained,” Okafor said.

He stressed the need for stronger collaboration between the company and consumers, pointing to vandalism, energy theft and non-payment of bills as key local challenges affecting service delivery.

Okafor urged communities to take responsibility for safeguarding electricity infrastructure, including transformers and distribution lines, and recommended the installation of solar-powered lighting and surveillance systems around critical facilities to deter vandalism.

During technical presentations, the Head of Technical Services, Engr. Okwudili Udechukwu warned that vandalism, illegal connections and unauthorised interference with installations remain major threats to efficient electricity distribution. He called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

The Chief Technical Officer, Dr Emeka Egbujor, provided further clarity on the electricity value chain, emphasising that distribution companies are responsible only for delivering power received from generation and transmission companies. He noted that disruptions at any stage inevitably affect end users.

On safety, the Head of Health, Safety and Environment, Dr Tosin Fadairo, cautioned against building or operating businesses within power line right-of-way corridors, citing risks such as electrocution and fire hazards.

He added that the company would enforce compliance, including the disconnection of structures that violate safety regulations.
Addressing customer relations, the Head of Customer Service, Mrs Obianuju Okafor, encouraged consumers to use official complaint and payment channels and to always request receipts for transactions to ensure transparency and accountability.

FirstPower also reiterated that customers are not required to pay for the repair or replacement of damaged infrastructure such as transformers, cables or meters, stressing that such responsibilities rest solely with the company. Customers were advised to report any unauthorised requests for payments by field staff.

On metering, the company disclosed that more than 13,000 prepaid meters are being deployed in Anambra as part of efforts to close the metering gap, with additional units expected under a federal government-backed programme. However, officials acknowledged that demand still far exceeds supply.

To accelerate deployment, FirstPower announced the establishment of a meter production facility in Onitsha, with a daily capacity of about 2,500 units, aimed at reducing reliance on estimated billing.

Technical experts at the forum also outlined ongoing interventions to improve network stability, including load balancing, feeder reconfiguration, transformer maintenance and system expansion to meet growing demand.
Customers at the event called for more transparent billing practices and faster response to service complaints, while company representatives assured them of improved communication channels and quicker resolution mechanisms.

The engagement programme concluded with a renewed call for cooperation, with FirstPower urging consumers to see themselves as active partners in building a more reliable electricity system.

Despite ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s power sector, Okafor expressed optimism that sustained collaboration, investment and improved understanding among stakeholders would gradually lead to a more stable electricity supply.

Women Affairs Minister Urges global support for women empowerment

Ademola Adepoju
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Women Affairs Minister Urges global support for women empowerment

Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has called for strengthened global partnerships, sustained financing, and policy-driven interventions to advance women’s empowerment, protection, and social development.

Delivering a keynote address at the Women’s Diaspora Leadership Dinner on the margins of President Tinubu’s State visit in London, she emphasised the centrality of social policy to national development, stating, “The condition of women, children and families is not a side issue in national development. It is the issue.”

She further underscored governance implications, noting, “When women are unsafe, society is unsafe. When families are broken, communities are weakened. When girls are violated, futures are stolen.”

Highlighting the needed support for gender-based violence,  “We must build systems. We must invest in protection. We must fund recovery. We must support survivors,” she stated.

Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted that 2026 has been declared the Year of Families and Social Development, driving nationwide interventions.
“Empowerment cannot stop in Abuja… the woman in the village matters. The woman in the camp matters. The survivor matters,” she said.

She outlined initiatives including EmpowerHer774, Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up, WAVE, PowerHer774, Women-on-Wheels, and the Happy Woman App to expand economic inclusion, digital access, and enterprise support.

On protection systems, she said, “Nigeria now has about 50 Sexual Assault Referral Centres… but… we need far more… at least 500 centres nationwide,” stressing the need for scale.

Calling for investment, she stated, “We need funding… protection costs money. Dignity costs money. Systems cost money.” Quoting national leadership, she added, “Put money in the hands of women.”

She urged diaspora engagement, stating, “I do not want your pity. I want your partnership… a mission where no woman is invisible.”

The Minister concluded with a call to action: “The time is now… it is indeed Women O’Clock.”

The Women’s Diaspora Leadership Dinner High-Level Stakeholders Dialogue was organised by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in partnership with Elevate Africa.

Anambra First Lady Salutes Muslims, Urges Unity

Mosunmola Ore
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0
Anambra First Lady Salutes Muslims, Urges Unity

The Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Nonye Soludo has extended warm congratulations to Muslims across Nigeria and beyond as they celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a goodwill message released on Thursday, the First Lady encouraged Nigerians to embrace love, unity, and peaceful coexistence, highlighting the enduring values that define the festive period.

She noted that “Eid ul-Fitr offers a powerful reminder that sacrifice, compassion, and tolerance are essential pillars for building harmonious societies.’

Mrs. Soludo, who is also the founder of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative promoting wellness and healthy lifestyles, used the occasion to inspire hope and positivity, particularly among Nigerian Muslims.

She commended their resilience, faith, and commitment demonstrated throughout Ramadan, describing them as ‘shining examples of discipline and spiritual devotion.’

She emphasised that  Eid ul-Fitr is not only a celebration of faith but also a time for reflection, gratitude to Allah, and renewed commitment to humanity.

According to her, “the festival strengthens communal bonds through shared prayers, acts of charity, family reunions, and the exchange of gifts—practices that foster unity, generosity, and joy across communities.”

“Ramadan Kareem to the Muslim Ummah in Anambra State and to all faithful across Nigeria and around the world celebrating this important occasion,” she said.

She said; “Eid ul-Fitr reminds us that love, sacrifice, and tolerance remain the strongest foundations of harmony and peaceful coexistence. Your dedication throughout Ramadan is deeply inspiring and a testament to the enduring strength of faith.”

Encouraging a spirit of kindness and inclusiveness, Mrs Soludo said, “As you celebrate, remember that this season calls for spreading genuine love and happiness. Let your actions bring smiles to those around you and strengthen the bonds that unite us all.”

She concluded with a message of hope and solidarity: “Let love, kindness, and oneness guide us as a nation. May this Eid bring renewed peace, prosperity, and continued blessings to every Muslim family. Eid Mubarak to you and your loved ones.”

Group Promotes Sickle Cell Awareness, Supports Vulnerable Persons

Christopher Ojilere
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Group Promotes Sickle Cell Awareness, Supports Vulnerable Persons

A group under the aegis of Mai Dunama Sickle Cell Foundation (MAISCEF) has stepped up efforts to raise awareness on sickle cell disorder, urging the government to intensify awareness and support initiatives on the condition.

The group made this known as it distributed Ramadan packages and medications to vulnerable individuals.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Rabi Mai Dunama, said the outreach underscores the foundation’s commitment to educating the public about sickle cell disorder and supporting affected persons, especially the less privileged.

She noted that the Ramadan packaged initiative was part of its humanitarian efforts to support the needy during the fasting period while promoting charitable giving.

Miss Maidunama explained that “the foundation engages in community and school outreaches, premarital counselling, and free genotype testing for youths to promote informed marital decisions and reduce the spread of the disease.”

According to her, “the group also trains healthcare workers on basic management of sickle cell cases and works to correct widespread misconceptions about the condition, especially regarding its pattern of inheritance.”

She further called on the government and stakeholders to introduce and enforce policies that would make genotype testing compulsory before marriage, noting that stronger collaboration with religious and cultural institutions is critical in curbing the prevalence of the disorder.

Also speaking, a beneficiary, Yahanasu Ahmed Mohammed, commended the founder for her compassion and sustained support to people living with sickle cell.

She appealed to the government at all levels to provide adequate support, including access to free medication, improved healthcare services, and sustained awareness programmes to ease the burden on affected families.

MAISCEF continues to expand its advocacy through education, healthcare support, and community-based interventions across the country.

 

NSIA, UK Firm Seal $496m Dairy Deal, 7,500 Jobs

Oluchi Okwuego
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NSIA, UK Firm Seal $496m Dairy Deal, 7,500 Jobs

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with UK-based Asset Green Ltd to develop a $496 million integrated dairy livestock production and processing project aimed at reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported milk and boosting food security.

The agreement, signed in London, provides a framework for collaboration and outlines commitments for the project’s development phase ahead of a formal shareholders’ agreement.

A statement by the British High Commission in Nigeria, signed by Senior Press and Public Affairs Officer Ndidiamaka Eze, noted that the large-scale initiative will integrate 20,000 hectares of climate-smart, regenerative crop and forage production with a 10,000-milking-cow dairy operation. It will also feature a processing facility capable of producing fresh milk, milk powder, butter, cream, and up to 15,000 metric tonnes of infant formula annually.

When operational, the project is expected to generate over $620 million in annual revenue and create about 2,500 direct and 5,000 indirect jobs across the country. It is also designed to incorporate up to 10,000 rural households into its supply chain through out-grower schemes.

READ ALSO: UK Deputy PM, Stakeholders Laud  Women Entrepreneurship Support 

The British Deputy High Commissioner in Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, said the partnership underscores the long-standing economic ties between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, adding that previous UK support contributed to establishing NSIA as a credible investment institution.

“That early institutional investment has paid dividends, helping to build a resilient Nigerian institution capable of creating jobs and driving transformational, long-term development. The agreement marks “a full-circle moment” in bilateral relations and underscores a shared commitment to sustainable, private sector-led growth, Baxter. said.

Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Aminu Umar-Sadiq described the project as one of the most ambitious efforts in a generation to strengthen Nigeria’s food and nutrition security.

“By combining climate-smart farming, advanced processing capacity, and inclusive out-grower participation, we are laying the foundation for a modern, competitive dairy sector that reduces import dependence, creates meaningful jobs, and delivers long-term value for Nigerians,” he said.

Also speaking, Asset Green Ltd Director and Agrium Capital Ltd CEO Rod Bassett said the investment represents a strategic effort to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector through large-scale infrastructure and innovation.

“This $500 million greenfield investment allows for the development of advanced and necessary infrastructure spanning the full production and supply system to enhance local production, reduce reliance on imports, deliver environmental services and strengthen national food sovereignty,” Bassett said.

The project underscores growing commercial ties between Nigeria and the UK and builds on years of technical and financial cooperation that supported the establishment of the NSIA in 2011.

Defence Ministry Advocates Technology-Driven Intelligence at DIA

Oluchi Okwuego
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Defence Ministry Advocates Technology-Driven Intelligence at DIA

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, has urged faster adoption of advanced technologies to strengthen Nigeria’s intelligence system and improve early warning against emerging threats.

He made the call during a familiarisation visit to the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) in Abuja, where he commended personnel for their professionalism and highlighted the agency’s role in tackling terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges.

Pheelangwah stressed the need for continuous investment in technology, human capital, and personnel welfare to sustain operational effectiveness, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the DIA’s capabilities.

READ ALSO: Defence Minister Reaffirms Fight Against Terrorism, Banditry

In response, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing security threats, noting that over 1,300 personnel have been trained and technology integration has enhanced operations.

He, however, cited challenges including limited capacity, equipment shortages, and funding gaps, calling for sustained support.

CDS Tasks Borno, Yobe Residents On Ownership Of Security

Mosunmola Ore
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0
CDS Tasks Borno, Yobe Residents On Ownership Of Security

The Chief of Defence Staff ( CDS ), General Olufemi Oluyede, has called for the support and cooperation of residents in Borno and Yobe states to take ownership of security against Boko Haram/ ISWAP terrorists.

General Oluyede made the call during his operational visit to the command and control centre of Operation Hadin Kai Joint Taskforce Northeast following the triple suicide bomb attacks in Maiduguri, which claimed over 25 lives with several others sustaining various degrees of injuries.

The CDS who visited Maiduguri alongside the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, noted that the military has been doing its very best to checkmate terrorist attacks recently and would continue to do that.

” This challenge is something that have been going all around for the past 15 years, or there about, and I want to put it out here clearly this afternoon, that for us to end this act of terrorism, the people of Borno State and Yobe state must take ownership of this problem, Because the bulk of the people perpetuating this heinous acts are from the states,” he said.

The CDS added that, “They are our brothers, our sisters, our cousins, and we know them. I’ll give you an example. When we conducted a cordon and search after the attacks in Kukawa, two of the people who came to attack Kukawa, who were wounded inside that village, were living in the area before the attacks, meaning that people are complicit.

” Our people must resolve that this has to come to an end, and we must take ownership of this problem. That is my message to the people of Borno and Yobe State today,” he said.

 

China–Nigeria Deepen Cultural Ties at International Taijiquan Day Celebration

Victoria Ibanga
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China–Nigeria Deepen Cultural Ties at International Taijiquan Day Celebration

China and  Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their diplomatic ties through cultural exchange programmes,  enhancing understanding and deepening friendship through mutual learning between the two countries’ civilisations.

This was disclosed  as officials, practitioners and enthusiasts gathered in  Abuja to celebrate International Taijiquan Day under the theme “China-Nigeria Good Partners.”


Speaking at the event, the Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director, China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Yang Jianxing, described Tai Chi as a global cultural symbol with deep historical roots and growing international relevance.

“Tai Chi Quan is one of the most well-known Chinese martial arts, loved by people all over the world, with a history of more than 400 years. 

its recognition by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020“, he said
He explained that the practice, now embraced by hundreds of millions of people in more than 180 countries and regions, represents harmony between humans and nature and promotes a healthy lifestyle.


“Tai Chi Quan Day aims to showcase the unique charm and profound heritage of Tai Chi Quan, sharing excellent traditional Chinese culture and a scientifically healthy lifestyle with the people of Nigeria.

 Scientific research shows that Tai Chi Quan has significant effects on improving chronic diseases and enhancing mental health, and its concept of prevention of disease is being incorporated into the global public health system” 
he explained
Yang highlighted the global significance of the day, recently designated by UNESCO to be marked annually on March 21.

According to him, the celebration was designed to showcase Chinese culture while fostering mutual understanding.

“This is the first international day in the UN system named after a martial arts discipline, signifying the widespread global recognition of the important value of Tai Chi Quan.

We hope to enhance understanding and deepen friendship through mutual learning between our two countries’ civilisations,” he said.

Yang also linked the celebration to broader diplomatic milestones, noting that 2026 marks 55 years of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China.


He referenced recent economic initiatives announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping, including zero-tariff measures for African countries, describing them as steps to boost trade and livelihoods.

“Over the past 55 years, political mutual trust between the two countries has deepened. Economic and trade cooperation has yielded fruitful results.

People-to-people exchanges have become increasingly close, and we have supported each other in international affairs, making the friendship between China and Nigeria ever stronger”, he added.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the  National Sports Commission in Nigeria, Mr Shehu Dikko, said the event underscored the intersection of sport, culture and diplomacy.

“It’s a convergence of culture, history, education, health and lifestyle, all in one particular event, and it is also a sport.

We endorse it, we support it. ” It enhances the potential of diplomacy and cultural exchanges between Nigeria and China”, he said
He added that such initiatives contribute to youth development and align with national goals.

“We’ll continue to do whatever we can to see how we can collaborate to advance the mutual relationship between Nigeria and China. And indeed, to be able to key into what you are doing to enhance the vision of our president, the renewed hope and shared prosperity vision of our president”, he added.

On her part, the  Permanent Secretary, Social Development Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Olubunmi Olowokere, said  Tai Chi is more than a physical exercise, but a moving meditation with significant benefits for public health.

“In our fast-paced world, where stress and lifestyle-related illnesses are on the rise, the principles of Tai Chi offer a powerful antidote,” she said.

Mrs Olowokere stressed that the discipline aligns with the Secretariat’s mandate on welfare and community development.

“It is an activity with no barriers. It can be practised by the young and the old alike, by men and women. It promotes balance, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally,” she added.

She added that a society that practises Tai Chi prioritises peace, patience, and inner strength. Urging  Nigerians to integrate Tai Chi into community life and encourage wider adoption.

By teaching the forms and philosophy of Wushu, you are not just sharing a sport; you are sharing a tool for healthier living. Let us use this partnership to build a healthier, more focused, and socially inclusive society.

As we move through the demonstrations today, let us reflect on the harmony of movement and breath, and let that harmony inspire our continued collaboration”,  she said.

Other highlights of the event include the demonstrations by local practitioners and cultural exchange activities, reinforcing the role of people-to-people engagement in strengthening bilateral relations.


The celebration organised by the China Cultural Centre reflects a shared commitment to cultural exchange, wellness and sustained friendship between both nations.

 

 

Victoria Ibanga

Police Intensify Security Ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrations in Sokoto

Mosunmola Ore
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0
Police Intensify Security Ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrations in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Ahmed Musa, has assured residents across the State that the command would intensify patrols, intelligence-led operations and visible policing before, during and after Sallah.

In a statement by the Command Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Rufai, the Commissioner directed all Area Commanders, DPOs and Tactical Commanders to ensure frequent surveillance for successful celebration during the period.

He explained that the Command has massively deployed operatives statewide and will work with sister agencies, community leaders and stakeholders to sustain peace and security.

The Commissioner, in a statement, urged parents and guardians to monitor their wards to curb reckless behaviour during the celebration.

He further called on the general public to remain law-abiding, vigilant and report suspicious activity to the nearest police station or Command Control: 08026451719.

He congratulated and felicitated with Muslim faithfuls and all residents on Eid-el-Fitr and wished them a successful celebration.

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