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By Zayyad I. Muhammad

In just one week, bandits and Boko Haram terrorists have abducted scores of students, female IDPs, Almajiris and other innocent citizens across Northern Nigeria.

On February 28, 2024, bandits killed two residents of Anguwan Auta in Gonin Gora, Kaduna state and kidnapped 16 others. The kidnappers are demanding a ransom of N40 trillion, along with 11 Hilux vans and 150 motorcycles, for their release.

On March 7th, 2024, 287 students, boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 15, were abducted by bandits from primary and secondary schools in the town of Kuriga in Kaduna State. The bandits have demanded a N1 billion ransom to set their captives free. They also threatened to kill the victims if the ransom was not paid in 20 days. It was reported that, on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, the bandits made contact through the principal of the school, Abubakar Isah, who was abducted alongside the students. The bandits contacted Aminu Kuriga, a friend of the school’s principal, at around 2 p.m. on that Tuesday, asking for the amount.

On Friday, March 8, 2024, Amnesty International (AI) reported that Boko Haram terrorists abducted over 400 people, including women and children, in Borno State. Boko Haram kidnapped the IDPs from different IDP camps in the Gamboru Ngala area of the state, which is one of the least secure parts of troubled Borno State, according to some observers.

In the early hours of Saturday, March 9, 2024, 15 Quranic school students and an elderly woman were kidnapped when bandits raided Gidan Bakuso village in the Gada Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Looking at outrageous demands and the targets, the bandits and the Boko Haram terrorists are all out to embarrass the government and cash out from it because most of their targets are soft and in rural areas.

However, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Muhammed Idris, was quoted as saying that President Tinubu has directed that security agencies must, as a matter of urgency, ensure that these children and all those who have been kidnapped are brought back in safety and also in the process, to ensure that not a dime is paid as ransom.

Can the government secure the release of the hostages as soon as possible without negotiation or payment of a ransom? Have the terrorists discovered a loophole in the current approach? It appears that the bandits and terrorists are exploiting the successes achieved in certain hotspots, possibly causing security agents to focus on other areas.

What needs to be done is a holistic approach to the deployment of both the kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.

The state, federal, and local communities should work together; collaboration is key to security management. On March 14, 2024, The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, all the service chiefs have met with all 19 northern governors to deliberate on the issue of security. This is good.

Managing security in a vast country like Nigeria with inadequate modern technology for security management is difficult, and federal security operatives cannot be everywhere and anywhere at the same time. And, Here comes the importance of a well-designed and structured state police. They play a crucial role in maintaining law and order within their respective states by enforcing state laws, responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, and ensuring public safety. Thereby, they contribute significantly to the overall security and well-being of the citizens within their jurisdiction, while complementing the efforts of other federal security agencies.

The hope is that the government should consider revitalising and re-strategizing both kinetic and non-kinetic security approaches as being implemented by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). This will not only lead to more successes and breakthroughs; however, more intelligence gathering is needed. Community engagement and direct psychological communication with the bandits should be employed. In community engagement, communities should be made to feel like part of the solution in security management, thus providing intelligence and also acting as watchdogs for security operatives without being endangered. Secondly, the reported ongoing soft approach’ should be sustained, and in direct communication with the bandits, psychological, social media, and artificial intelligence (AI) methods should be greatly utilized. Most bandits and Boko Haram terrorists now also use social media. Therefore, a coordinated effort should be launched by the ONSA and other relevant bodies to recruit individuals who speak the languages of the bandits. These individuals can then send convincing messages to them regarding the disadvantages and dangers associated with their activities, while also highlighting the benefits of adopting a normal lifestyle. This includes attending both Western and religious schools while still maintaining their culture, beliefs, and legal trade inherited from their communities.

Furthermore, radio and TV remain effective tools to reach the bandits, especially with the widespread availability of satellite TV and advancements in solar power technology. This allows bandits hiding in thick forests to charge their phones, watch TV, and listen to the radio and watch satellite TV.

To enhance security for soft targets and rural schools, the government at all levels, along with security agencies and local communities, should collaborate on implementing both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja. He can be reached via 08036070980, zaymohd@yahoo.com

By Tijani Abiola

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country located in West Africa. It shares boundaries with six countries: Mali to the north, Niger to the east, Benin to the southeast, Togo and Ghana to the south, and Côte d’Ivoire to the southwest. As of the last knowledge update in January 2022, the total population of Burkina Faso was 21 million people. The country’s official language is French, which is spoken alongside different indigenous languages.

Economically, Burkina Faso is mainly an agricultural country, though there is also a very strong presence of gold mining. However, this country is troubled by poverty, drought, and political instability.

Mali, on the other hand, also in West Africa, shares borders with Algeria to the north, Niger to the east, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast to the south, Guinea to the southwest and Senegal and Mauritania to the west, with a population of about 20 million people. The official language is French, and Bambara is also widely spoken.

Political instability, ethnic tension, and conflicts with extremist groups positioned mostly in the northern parts of the country have also challenged Mali in the years past. It lies in the region bordered by Libya to the northeast, Chad to the east, Nigeria and Benin to the south, Burkina Faso and Mali to the west, and Algeria to the northwest. It has a population of about 24 million people. 

The official language is French, and many indigenous languages are spoken. Niger is largely an agrarian society, with subsistence farming forming a very critical part of the economy. Uranium mining is also a very important industry. The country faces challenges such as poverty, desertification, and food insecurity.

All three have diverse cultures and histories, and all have unique challenges. The Sahel region, including the northern parts of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, has seen a particular outbreak of security issues, including conflicts with jihadist groups and ethnic tensions.

Meanwhile, in the years 2020, 2021 and 2023 in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, respectively, there were successful military coups which still reign to date.  The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) turned an eye to their decision and style of new leadership of the bloc’s member-states. Efforts towards national reconciliation have been in vain. 

The Economic Community of West African States is a regional political and economic union comprising fifteen countries located in West Africa, of which the above-mentioned Countries are members.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and the Niger Republic have all in recent times expressed intention to part ways with ECOWAS bloc bodies. That decision has been a climax and a very big bottleneck for ECOWAS, as the trio of these countries are some of the most resourceful countries which shoulder a huge part of the yearly ECOWAS budget and yet one of the poorest countries on the African continent. After their decision to leave the West African regional bloc of ECOWAS, what effect will this have on ECOWAS?

This country represents almost 20% of the ECOWAS population – that is 66 million out of 420 million people. As mentioned above, cotton, gold, and uranium ore are precious resources for Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, respectively.

Is ECOWAS blind to these facts?

I will say no, but will they have intensified negotiations before now? Yes. Their belief may be that they will soon get tired and comply or call for help after being deprived of some amenities benefited from nearby ECOWAS countries. Yet, they still remain adamant about their decision. For such countries to make such decisions looks like a threat to other ECOWAS countries.

ECOWAS should know this is no joke. The pumping question is: what if they excel in their decisions and their leaders are able to change their countries and become the best in years to come? What will happen to other ECOWAS countries whose corruption still influences their development?

Is dumping ECOWAS best for Burkina Faso, Mali, and the Niger Republic?

This decision will not only restrict their access to large international markets for foreign exchange and development provided by ECOWAS but also international partnerships that help in country development. Also, the free visa for all ECOWAS states is another big opportunity they might be deprived of from ECOWAS countries.

Though their decision has not been formally in writing to ECOWAS, they may be nursing second thoughts in the decision or calling for attention to negotiation stylishly. The poking questions are;

Is this the best idea for these three countries?

Will they stand without ECOWAS?

Won’t they be a threat to other ECOWAS countries if their decision is granted?

Does ECOWAS need to let them be?

Africa is a blessed continent with all its natural resources, but a continent with the highest rate of poverty and a corrupt leadership style needs to be resolved.

Tijani Abiola wrote via abiolatijani001@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Comrade Ali Ciroma, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s labor movement and former president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has passed away.

His demise occurred on Tuesday in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, following a brief illness.

The sad news was conveyed through a statement issued by Ali Ciroma, the Secretary of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Borno State Council, on behalf of the family.

The statement expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Comrade Ali Ciroma, noting that he breathed his last at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

According to the statement, the funeral arrangements are scheduled for the following day (Wednesday) at the deceased’s residence located at No. 7 A along Galadima Road, near Muhammadu Shuwa Memorial Hospital (Nursing Home), Maiduguri.

Comrade Ali Ciroma had served as the president of the NLC from 1984 to 1988, leaving a significant mark on the labor movement during his tenure.

Prior to his leadership in the NLC, he held the position of president in the Rural Health Workers of Nigeria in 1960, which later evolved into the Medical and Health Workers Association.

His contributions to the labor sector have left a lasting legacy in Nigeria.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Two students were forcibly taken from their hostel at Federal University Wukari, Taraba state, on Monday night.

Late Monday evening, a set of armed assailants raided a students’ hostel situated along the Wukari-Zaki Biam road and kidnapped a male and a female student from the Microbiology and Economics Departments, respectively.

The brazen abduction has thrown panic into the university community and beyond. 

Confirming the distressing incident, Mrs. Adore Auwudu, the University’s Police Public Relations Officer, disclosed that security forces, in collaboration with local youths, have launched a comprehensive search operation to locate the abducted students.

However, the abduction has reignited concerns raised by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jude Sammani Rabo, regarding the inadequate hostel accommodations, which not only jeopardize students’ security but also undermine their overall well-being. 

Taraba State, grappling with the wider issue of insecurity plaguing the nation, finds itself embroiled in a disturbing pattern of violence and kidnappings.

The latest abduction serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for proactive measures to address the prevailing security challenges. Efforts to solicit comments from Taraba State Police Commissioner, David Lloyanomon, were hampered by his unavailability due to ongoing engagements.

However, in a text message response, the Commissioner noted the imperative of verifying the victims’ student status, reflecting the complexities surrounding such incidents amidst the tumultuous security landscape. 

As investigations continue and the fate of the abducted students hangs in the balance, stakeholders are urged to redouble efforts in ensuring the safety and security of students within educational institutions across the region. 

By Harajana Umar Ragada

It all began with a small lump on her left breast. Over time, it grew larger with each passing day. Concerned, her husband took her to the hospital, where they were informed that a minor surgery was necessary. The doctor assured them of its safety and that she would go home immediately after the procedure.

However, an elderly woman approached her with a warning. She advised against allowing anyone to touch her breast at such a young age, claiming it was too risky. Unfortunately, she heeded the woman’s advice, ignoring her husband’s attempts to convince her otherwise. Instead, she returned home and relied on local herbs, hoping for a cure.

To her dismay, the condition worsened and developed into cancer. She underwent numerous treatments, including chemotherapy. I watched as she silently suffered, fervently praying for her quick recovery. However, she eventually succumbed to the illness after a lengthy stay at the hospital. She left behind three children, with the youngest just weaned off due to the mother’s illness.

Her death deeply affected me and shed light on the lack of awareness among many women about breast cancer, its preventive measures, predisposing factors, and signs to look out for.

According to findings from the World Health Organisation (WHO), in Nigeria alone, over 10,000 women die annually from cancer-related issues, with approximately 250,000 new cases recorded every year. These numbers are alarming, prompting me to contemplate how I could help.

That’s when I discovered Raise Foundation, an organisation dedicated to providing free cancer screening, raising awareness about breast cancer, and supporting patients through their journey, founded by the wife of the former Niger State Governor, Haj. Amina Abubakar Bello.

In an interaction with the CEO of Raise Foundation, Mrs Toyin Dauda, she disclosed that their mission is to create awareness and opportunities for women and girls, allowing them to realise their full potential in a safe environment for pregnancy and childbirth. They aim to empower women to make informed decisions and seize available opportunities.

“We established the Raise Foundation in 2015, and we are proud to have the first breast and cervical cancer screening centre in Niger State. Additionally, we conduct outreach programs in hard-to-reach areas, where we screen women and educate them about breast cancer. We promote early detection and offer assistance to those diagnosed with cervical or breast cancer,” She affirmed.

Mrs.Toyin further explained that the screening is completely free of charge. Their healthcare professionals use gloves for examination, and if they identify any abnormalities or lumps, the woman will need to undergo a scan, which costs ₦4000. For women over 35, a mammography is recommended, priced at ₦10,000.

However, during October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they provide all these services for free. Operating from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mrs Toyin urged women not to wait for the designated month but to seek screenings earlier. The foundation also guides self-breast exams.

Moreover, the Raise Foundation offers financial support for breast cancer patients. Rather than giving patients money directly, they cover the costs and provide receipts. They have partnerships that help fund their initiatives, allowing them to support women across Nigeria. Mrs Toyin appealed to governments, organisations, and individuals to contribute funds as the number of patients rose.

Furthermore, the program coordinator for Raise Foundation, Dr Fatima Tafida, emphasised the importance of understanding the risk factors associated with breast cancer and taking action to address them. She highlighted the risk factors, the consequences, the signs and symptoms, preventive measures, and how to perform self-breast exams.

According to Dr Fatima, the risk factors include being female, as breast tissue is present, an increasing trend of breast cancer among younger women (even as young as 25 years), early onset of menstruation, late menopause, not having been pregnant or breastfed, family history of breast cancer, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet or obesity.

She added that cancer is a significant threat as it impacts individuals socially, physically, emotionally, and financially. 

“Signs and symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type. The most common sign is the presence of a small lump in the breast, which may or may not be painful. Other indicators include the growth of the lump, cracks on the nipples, or the presence of bloody or Clear discharge. Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware that they have cancer until it has progressed.

“To prevent cancer, there are several measures that can be taken. Firstly, creating awareness about the disease and its risk factors is crucial. Secondly, modifying one’s lifestyle by quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption is essential. Additionally, individuals who are obese should aim to lose weight and incorporate regular exercise into their routine. Maintaining a balanced diet is also important in preventing cancer. Conducting regular self-breast exams is recommended for those with a family history of the disease. Lastly, performing self-breast exams at the end of the menstrual cycle can help in the early detection of any abnormalities.” She stressed.

Dr Fatima Tafida also underlined the importance of regular self-breast exams. She provided step-by-step instructions on how to perform a self-exam for early detection. 

She advised standing in front of a mirror with the left hand raised above the head. Using the fingers of the right hand, one should palpate the whole breast, pressing the nipple and checking for any cracks or nipple discharge, be it bloody or clear. The person should then move their hand under the armpits and check for enlarged lymph nodes. 

Dr. Fatima also highlighted signs to look out for, such as an orange peel appearance of the skin, one breast being bigger than the other, nipple retraction, or sores around the breast or nipples. These indicators could suggest a problem, and medical attention should be sought immediately. 

She stressed the importance of early detection and shared the example of Angelina Jolie, who underwent a double mastectomy after testing positive for a breast cancer gene due to her family history.

For women over the age of 40, Dr. Fatima underscored the importance of getting a yearly mammogram. She advised against relying solely on herbal medicines and encouraged sticking to scientifically proven methods of treatment and prevention. She said teenagers should be aware and proactive in screening themselves. While adding that wearing bras made from secondhand clothes, often of European origin, does not increase any chance of having breast cancer.

In conclusion, Dr. Fatima appealed to society to show kindness and support to breast cancer patients. She highlighted the high costs associated with treating breast cancer and urged governments, NGOs, and individuals to provide assistance and support to these patients.

The Raise Foundation has received heartfelt gratitude from beneficiaries who have received free treatment and support. One patient expressed her appreciation, acknowledging that she would not have been able to afford the treatment without the foundation’s help. Another beneficiary thanked the foundation and called on the state government, NGOs, and individuals to support breast cancer patients.

As breast cancer continues to devastate lives, we must come together and fight it collectively. Let us join hands in raising awareness, providing support, and working towards a future where breast cancer no longer exists.

Harajana Umar Ragada wrote via kharajnah@gmail.com. 

By Uzair Adam Imam

Armed bandits struck terror into the hearts of travellers on their way to the southeast for Easter celebrations, intercepting an Abakaliki-bound luxury bus along the Ijebu Ode-Ore-Benin expressway in Ogun State.

The harrowing incident occurred at the Oke Ado junction at Ijebu Mushin.

Confirming the distressing event, SP Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson of the Ogun State Police Command, revealed that the criminals, armed with cutlasses, stopped the luxury Mercedes-Benz bus that originated from Maza Maza.

They proceeded to rob all 59 passengers on board, leaving them stripped of their belongings. Without hesitation, they locked the passengers inside the bus and set it ablaze.

However, by sheer willpower and determination, the passengers managed to break the glass windows and escape from the inferno before it engulfed the entire bus.

The survivors recounted the terrifying ordeal, expressing gratitude that no lives were lost despite the loss of their possessions.

The management of Ifesinachi Transport Nig. Ltd. confirmed that the attacked bus belonged to their company, expressing shock and dismay over the tragic turn of events.

In a distressing video shared on social media, survivors recounted the brutality of the bandits, who subjected them to physical assault and robbed them of everything they possessed.

Despite the trauma inflicted upon them, they expressed gratitude for their survival.

As investigations continue into this appalling incident, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing travellers on Nigerian highways.

The authorities are urged to take swift and decisive action to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the safety of all citizens.

By Muhammed Sodangi

Let me begin with the famous saying of the South African anti-apartheid revolutionary leader, Nelson Mandela, who said, “It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mine worker can become the head of the mine, that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation. It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another.”

On August 23, 2023, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, approved the payment of ₦700 million to 7,000 Kano indigenous students at Bayero University, Kano.

This commendable gesture has put smiles on the faces of a great number of students who were utterly struggling for the survival of their academic pursuits at the time.

Under your stewardship, Your Excellency, approximately 550 indigent students from Kano State were sponsored to travel overseas for a master’s scholarship program.

Thus, it is a clear testimony that the education sector has been prioritized by investing heavily in the future leaders of our state.

However, students studying at various universities outside the state risk deferment or withdrawal for not settling their tuition fees as promised by the Kano State government.

On March 2, 2024, the Kano governor held a meeting with the “Joint Consultative Forum of Kano Universities Students” to address the lingering issue regarding the payment of their tuition fees.

A few days later, a screening team from the scholarship board was dispatched to various universities, but no progress has been recorded yet.

Your Excellency, many students have missed tests and are on the brink of missing exams. We are thus calling on your intervention as soon as possible.

Thank you.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Shehu Sani, the former Senator representing Kaduna Central, has raised the alarm over the suffocating debt burden gripping Kaduna State under the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Sani expressed regret that his warnings against El-Rufai’s aggressive borrowing were ignored, leading the state into a financial crisis of significant proportions.

Speaking to reporters, Sani highlighted the dire consequences of the debt accumulation, emphasizing that if his advice had been heeded, the state would not be grappling with the current predicament.

He recalled facing criticism for opposing a $350 million World Bank loan sought by the El-Rufai administration, foreseeing the looming challenges now faced by the state.

Governor Uba Sani, in a recent town hall meeting, disclosed that the state inherited a staggering debt of $587 million, ₦85 billion, and ₦115 billion in contractual liabilities from the previous administration.

This heavy financial burden has severely hampered the state’s ability to meet its financial obligations, including salary payments.

The current administration disclosed that a substantial portion of the state’s federal allocation is being diverted toward servicing the debt, leaving insufficient funds for essential expenditures such as salary payments.

With the sharp increase in exchange rates, the amount being repaid has almost tripled, exacerbating the financial strain on the state.

Out of the N10 billion received as federal allocation in March, N7 billion was deducted to service the state’s debt, leaving only N3 billion available.

However, this amount falls short of covering the state’s monthly salary bill of N5.2 billion, further exacerbating the financial crisis.

Sani cautioned that the repercussions of the state’s debt burden are now being felt acutely, underscoring the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the financial challenges facing Kaduna State.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Bauchi State Police Command apprehended Isyaku Babale, 30, following the tragic demise of his brother during a heated dispute.

In a statement released by SP Ahmed Wakil, the police disclosed that the arrest came after the victim succumbed to his injuries at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) Bauchi.

“Isyaku Babale, a resident of Anguwan Dawaki, was detained by operatives from the township Police Divisional headquarters for an alleged culpable homicide,” stated SP Ahmed Wakil.

He continued, “Initial investigations unveiled that the suspect employed a knife, fatally stabbing his older sibling during an altercation that erupted between them on March 31st, 2024, around 04:00hrs.”

Reportedly, the dispute ignited when Babale urged his brother to cease consuming Cold Patch liquid, locally known as ‘Sholi,’ due to its foul odor.

The disagreement escalated into a physical confrontation, leading to the fatal stabbing. Further inquiries revealed a history of violent altercations involving dangerous weapons between the siblings.

Commissioner of Police, CP Auwal Musa Mohammed, has directed a comprehensive investigation to ascertain any underlying motives behind the incident, emphasizing the importance of bringing the perpetrator to justice through legal proceedings.

By Uzair Adam Imam  

Negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip are scheduled to recommence in Cairo on Sunday, as reported by Egyptian outlet Al-Qahera. 

This development follows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent approval for renewed talks. 

An anchor for Al-Qahera News, closely associated with Egypt’s intelligence services, confirmed the resumption of negotiations, citing an Egyptian security source.  

Previous rounds of talks, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, have yet to yield a viable agreement. 

Despite hopes to reach a ceasefire before Ramadan, progress has been slow, with the Muslim holy month now more than halfway through. 

Netanyahu’s endorsement of the new negotiations, set to take place in both Doha and Cairo, was announced on Friday.  

While details regarding the involvement of Mossad chief David Barnea remain undisclosed, Netanyahu’s office confirmed discussions with Barnea regarding the talks. 

Simultaneously, protests erupted in Israel’s largest city, with demonstrators blocking a major road in demand for the release of hostages held in Gaza and criticising the government’s handling of the conflict.  

Approximately 130 hostages, out of an initial 250 seized during the October 7 attacks that triggered the conflict, are believed to remain in Gaza.

Central to the ceasefire negotiations is the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.  

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, along with counterparts from Egypt and Jordan, noted the urgent need for a permanent ceasefire and the release of all hostages during meetings in Cairo. 

Furthermore, France intends to propose a draft resolution at the UN Security Council outlining a “political” settlement for the conflict. 

While recent international efforts, including a Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire and a UN court order for humanitarian assistance, aim to alleviate the situation, the conflict persists.  

Hamas’s initial attacks on October 7 resulted in significant casualties in Israel, while Israel’s retaliatory campaign in Gaza has claimed thousands of lives, predominantly among civilians, according to official figures.