The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Category: News

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  • Peter Obi questions President Tinubu’s foreign trips, absence

    Peter Obi questions President Tinubu’s foreign trips, absence

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has accused President Bola Tinubu of being absent at a time the country needs him the most.

    In a statement on X on Monday, Obi questioned the President’s visibility as Nigeria battles deepening poverty, hunger, insecurity, and rising unemployment, noting that the country is projected to have about 140 million people living in extreme poverty by the end of the year, the highest figure globally.

    He said Nigeria is grappling with one of the hungriest populations in the world, worsening insecurity, an unemployment crisis affecting over 80 million youths, and alarming infant mortality rates that make the country one of the worst places to be born.

    According to him, President Tinubu spent 196 days outside the country in 2025 alone, a period he said exceeded the time the President spent within Nigeria despite the scale of the national crises.

    Obi also faulted the President’s silence since December 2025, alleging that Nigerians entered the New Year without a presidential address or national broadcast, while reports suggested the President was on holiday in Europe.

    He argued that the lack of direct communication from the President during critical moments has left Nigerians anxious and uninformed, especially on major security issues, including reported U.S. military strikes on Nigerian soil, which he said citizens learned about through foreign media and official statements from the United States rather than from their own government.

    The former Anambra State governor said the situation reflects a failure of leadership, stressing that governance requires presence, direct engagement and clear communication with citizens, not press releases or second-hand briefings.

    He further criticised the President’s participation in foreign summits while remaining largely absent at home.

    He wrote, “Where is the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?

    “This is not just a question; it’s a critical demand for accountability in a national emergency. As we approach the end of this year, Nigeria will be home to approximately 140 million people living in extreme poverty—the highest number in the world. We are grappling with one of the hungriest populations globally, staggering insecurity, an unemployment rate exceeding 80 million among our youth, and one of the worst places to be born, with infant mortality rates worse than those of a nation seven times our size.

    “In the midst of this chaos, where has our President been? Spending 196 days abroad in 2025 alone—more than he has spent within his own country, at a time when we face profound crises.

    “Since December 2025, Nigerians have not heard a word from their President. Reports indicate he opted for a holiday in Europe while the nation was plunged into a New Year marked by hunger, anxiety, and uncertainty. There was no New Year address, no national broadcast, no leadership voice to provide reassurance or guidance.

    “This lack of presence starkly contrasts with what we see in comparable developing nations where leaders step up in times of crisis. In Nigeria, following U.S. military strikes on our soil, our President remained silent. Instead of directly addressing the nation, Nigerians learned about these critical events from foreign media, American officials, and the vague communications from the Presidency’s aides known for their propaganda, rather than from their own leader.

    “This is not governance; it’s neglect. The President was seen abroad yet again for another summit while remaining absent from his own country when he is needed the most. Earlier this year, he even sent an AI-generated image to the nation instead of addressing his people face-to-face.

    “Are we to believe Nigeria is being governed, or is it merely being managed from elsewhere? Leadership is not simply issuing press releases; it’s about standing before the people, engaging with them, and offering clarity.

    “We are not asking for perfection; we demand presence. Nigerians are eager to hear from their President through direct media briefings. They deserve to understand the state of their country. You cannot run Nigeria like a personal business or a private club; it is imperative to rebuild and grow our economy through unity and clarity.

    “Progress is impossible without unity and consensus, and it begins with strong leadership that sets the tone. No policy, reform, economic plan, or security measure can thrive in a divided nation. When leadership withdraws, unity falters, and the fabric of our society unravels under the weight of mistrust and division.

    “In a time of crisis, the absence of leadership is not just troubling; it is perilous. Silence in the face of crisis is the loudest form of failure.

    “A New Nigeria is not just POssible; it is essential. -PO”

  • Rangers Secures Fashion Apparel Deal with Nzapi

    Rangers Secures Fashion Apparel Deal with Nzapi

    Doris Ewoh, Enugu

    Rangers International Football Club has secured a fashion apparel and manufacturing partnership with Nzapi Fashion Brand to produce rebranded shirts, face caps, and costumes for the club and its supporters, aimed at boosting the club’s revenue.

    The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place on Monday, January 12, 2025, at the Rangers FC office in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), Enugu, with officials from Nzapi Fashion Brand in attendance.

    The General Manager of Rangers FC, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, describing Nzapi as “a fashion and apparel design and manufacturing company that understands not just fashion but culture, identity, and storytelling.”

    On the identity of Rangers and the significance of the collaboration, Ezeaku said:

    “We are not just a football club. We are history, pride, resilience, and a symbol that cuts across generations since our establishment in 1970. This partnership is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: Rangers must look like where we are going. With Nzapi, we are committing to merchandise that speaks to the younger generation, who see Rangers not only on the pitch but as a lifestyle brand.

    “And then the older generation, who carry the memories, values, and legacy of this great club. The merchandise going forward will not just be worn – it will be felt. It will tell stories of tradition, stories of excellence, and modern ambition.”

    Ezeaku also described the partnership as a strategic business decision, noting that merchandising is key to financial sustainability in modern football.

    “Our vision is clear: to professionalize Rangers…to expand availability locally and internationally, creating products that fans are proud to own, wear, and pass on. We are deliberately building Rangers into a self-sustaining institution, where football success is supported by strong commercial foundations like Nzapi.”

    Expressing gratitude to Nzapi and the supporters, he added:

    “From us to Nzapi, we say thank you for believing in this vision and for choosing to grow with us. It is a partnership built on shared values and long-term ambition. And of course, to our fans, whom we will see on Wednesday, being Matchday: this partnership is for you. It’s for your pride. It’s for your identity. It’s for your connection to Rangers and the Rangers movement.

    Our Correspondent reports that the Creative Lead of Nzapi, Mr. Odinaka Ugwuozor, said the partnership symbolizes storytelling through apparel, noting that Rangers represents more than football. He described Rangers as “not just a football club but a carrier of the history of a particular region.”

    “This isn’t just about a collaboration with Rangers, but a way of promoting what we are deeply rooted in. This is a signal of intent and our commitment to helping drive something that is deeply rooted in our culture. This is beyond us. Rangers will outlive us. Nzapi will outlive us. And this is our commitment to ensuring that this is perpetually structured. That’s the idea.”

  • Lagos gov’t orders probe of death of Chimamanda Adichie’s son, as hospital breaks silence on accusation

    Lagos gov’t orders probe of death of Chimamanda Adichie’s son, as hospital breaks silence on accusation

    Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered for a probe into the alleged medical negligence that reportedly led to the death of Nnamdi Nkanu, son of renowned Nigerian author, Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private healthcare facility in Lagos.

    The governor gave the directive through the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), following public concern generated by Ms. Adichie’s account of the tragic incident, which occurred on January 6.

    In a press statement signed by the Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, he expressed deep condolences to the grieving family, describing the loss of a child as “a profound tragedy.”

    “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time,” the statement read.

    The government reaffirmed its zero tolerance for medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state.

    “Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the State,” the statement added.

    According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, HEFAMAA has already commenced investigation into the matter and has visited the facility involved.

    “The Governor has directed HEFAMAA to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to unraveling the immediate and remote causes of the death,” Ogunyemi said.

    She explained that the investigation would involve a detailed review of clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties connected to the case.

    HEFAMAA, she noted, would also collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other regulatory bodies to ensure credibility and professionalism in the process.

    “The Agency will work in close collaboration with the MDCN and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a holistic, credible, and professional review process,” she stated.

    The government assured Lagos residents that the findings of the investigation would be made public.“Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” Ogunyemi said.

    She warned that any health facility or professional found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

    “Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct, or regulatory violations will face the full wrath of the law, in accordance with existing legal and regulatory frameworks,” the statement declared.

    While urging the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, the state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety, and health of all residents.

    “Lagos State remains committed to continuously strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents,” Ogunyemi said.

    The government extended its condolences to Ms. Adichie and her family, assuring them that justice and due process would not be compromised.

    Euracare Hospital Empathises with Chimamanda Adichie, Clarifies Circumstances of Son’s Death 
    Euracare Multispecialist Hospital has expressed deep sympathy to renowned writer Chimamanda Adichie and her family over the death of their son, describing the loss as profound and heartbreaking.
    In a statement issued by its management, the hospital extended its “deepest sympathies” to the family, noting that the loss of a child is “beyond words.”
    It assured the family of its continued support during what it described as a deeply distressing period.
    The hospital, however, said it was necessary to clarify what it termed inaccuracies in some reports circulating about the incident.
    According to Euracare, the patient was critically ill and had been referred to its facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment for a period of time at two paediatric centres.
    It stated that upon the patient’s arrival, its internationally trained clinical team immediately provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, including the administration of sedation where clinically indicated.
    The hospital added that it worked collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by the family and ensured that all necessary clinical support was provided.
    “Despite these concerted efforts, the patient sadly passed away less than 24 hours after presenting at our facility,” the statement said.
    Euracare further disclosed that it has commenced a detailed investigation in line with its clinical governance standards and best practices, stressing its commitment to transparency and responsible engagement with all clinical and regulatory processes.
    “As medical professionals, we carry the weight of this loss deeply,” the hospital said, adding that its priority remains compassion, patient safety, and the responsible handling of the matter, while respecting the family’s privacy and allowing due process to take its course.
  • Chimamanda Alleges Negligence by Lagos Hospital as Cause of Son’s Death

    Chimamanda Alleges Negligence by Lagos Hospital as Cause of Son’s Death

    Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who recently lost her 21-month-old son, has released a statement detailing the circumstances surrounding his death.

    According to ARISE News, “ARISE News reached out to Adichie’s media team, who confirmed that she did author the statement. According to her representatives, the message was originally sent privately to family members and a few close friends”.

    The message which has since gone viral on social media is reproduced below:

    My son would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th.

    We were in Lagos for Christmas. Nkanu had what we first thought was just a cold, but soon turned into a very serious infection and he was admitted to Atlantis hospital.

    He was to travel to the US the next day, January 7th, accompanied by Travelling Doctors. A team at Johns Hopkins was waiting to receive him in Baltimore. The Hopkins team had asked for a lumbar puncture test and an MRI. The Nigerian team had also decided to put in a ‘central line’ (used to administer iv medications) in preparation for Nkanu’s flight. Atlantis hospital referred us to Euracare Hospital, which was said to be the best place to have the procedures done.

    The morning of the 6th, we left Atlantis hospital for Euracare, Nkanu carried in his father’s arms. We were told he would need to be sedated to prevent him from moving during the MRI and the ‘central line’ procedure.

    I was waiting just outside the theater. I saw people, including Dr M, rushing into the theater and immediately knew something had happened.

    A short time later, Dr M came out and told me Nkanu had been given too much propofol by the anesthesiologist, had become unresponsive and was quickly resuscitated. But suddenly Nkanu was on a ventilator, he was intubated and placed in the ICU. The next thing I heard was that he had seizures. Cardiac arrest. All these had never happened before. Some hours later, Nkanu was gone

    It turns out that Nkanu was NEVER monitored after being given too much propofol. The anesthesiologist had just casually carried Nkanu on his shoulder to the theater, so nobody knows when exactly Nkanu became unresponsive.

    How can you sedate a sick child and neglect to monitor him? Later, after the ‘central line’ procedure, the anesthesiologist casually switched off Nkanu’s oxygen and again decided to carry him on his shoulder to the ICU!

    The anesthesiologist was CRIMINALLY negligent. He was fatally casual and careless with the precious life of a child. No proper protocol was followed.

    We brought in a child who was unwell but stable and scheduled to travel the next day. We came to conduct basic procedures. And suddenly, our beautiful little boy was gone forever. It is like living your worst nightmare. I will never survive the loss of my child.

    We have now heard about two previous cases of this same anesthesiologist overdosing children. Why did Euracare allow him to keep working? This must never happen to another child.

  • Minister Udeh Deepens Senate Collaboration to Drive Renewed Hope STI Agenda

    Minister Udeh Deepens Senate Collaboration to Drive Renewed Hope STI Agenda

    The Honorable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochi Udeh, SAN, has paid an official familiarization visit to the Chairman, Senate Committee on Science and Technology, Distinguished Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the Executive and the Legislature in advancing Nigeria’s Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) agenda.

    The Minister, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Philip Ndiomu, expressed appreciation for the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda continues to provide strategic direction for the repositioning of the STI sector as a catalyst for national development.

    Dr. Udeh reaffirmed the President’s commitment to building a responsive and result-driven STI ecosystem capable of accelerating economic diversification, industrial growth, and global competitiveness.

    He emphasized the importance of sustained synergy between the Ministry and the National Assembly in ensuring effective policy implementation and timely passage of critical legislation.

    In his response, Distinguished Senator Aminu Iya Abbas welcomed the Honorable Minister and assured him of the Senate Committee’s full legislative support, including expeditious consideration of bills and programmes related to the Ministry and its agencies.

    He expressed confidence in the Minister’s capacity to deliver on the STI mandate in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The visit featured strategic discussions aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration and accelerating Nigeria’s Science, Technology and Innovation development.

    Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together in the national interest to advance innovation-led growth in Nigeria.

  • Soludo Donates 30 Operational Vehicles to Nigeria Police to Boost Security

    Soludo Donates 30 Operational Vehicles to Nigeria Police to Boost Security

    Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has donated 30 operational vehicles to the Nigeria Police, Anambra State Command. The handover is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity and deepen community safety.

    Recall that last year, the state government had donated 170 operational vehicles to security agencies in the state.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Soludo reflected on the imperative of security, recalling that in January last year, his administration launched the Agunechemba law alongside Operation Udo Ga Achị, a joint task force designed to combat the wave of criminality that once ravaged many parts of Anambra.

    “Twelve months after, the difference is clear,” he said, noting the marked improvement in peace and order.

    The Governor credited the security agencies for their unwavering vigilance.

    “Thanks to the security agencies for keeping awake to make sure we sleep.” He highlighted that these efforts have encouraged a mass return of Anambra indigenes to their communities this Christmas, confident in the safety of their homeland.

    Governor Soludo further emphasized that security remains a top priority.

    “Security is too important in Anambra. It is a continuous work in progress.”

    He reminded the audience that last year, 170 vehicles were provided to security agencies, and this new addition of 30 Hilux vehicles is specifically for the Nigeria Police Force to enhance mobility and responsiveness in fighting crime and keeping the State safe.

    Receiving the vehicles on behalf of The Police Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, expressed gratitude for the augmentation in resources, recognizing the vehicles as critical tools for effective policing and rapid response to threats.

    The donation is expected to improve patrolling, curb criminal activities, and reinforce the state’s positive security trajectory.

  • Uzodimma Unveils  Imo Vigilante Organisation To Beef Up Security

    Uzodimma Unveils  Imo Vigilante Organisation To Beef Up Security

    Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has officially inaugurated the Imo Vigilante Organization, marking a strategic move by the State Government to strengthen community-based security and enhance public safety across Imo State.

    The event which held at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, Owerri, brought together government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders. According to the Governor, the establishment of the vigilante organization is part of ongoing efforts to complement formal security structures and support grassroots cooperation in crime prevention.

    The Governor also noted that creating a safe and stable environment remains essential for fostering development and sustaining economic activities in the State. He emphasized that the vigilante group will operate under clear regulations and in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, ensuring professionalism and respect for human rights.

    The Imo Vigilante Organization is expected to commence operations immediately, with its members drawn from various communities across the state to work closely with traditional institutions, youth groups, and security formations.

    #HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

    In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe, said the launch of the Imo State Security Organization (ISSO) is a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and security.

    He noted that the initiative represents a bold, strategic, and visionary step toward addressing security challenges and ensuring a peaceful future for all residents of the state.

    According to him, the establishment of the Imo State Security Organisation signals the beginning of a new era of peace, safety, and prosperity, pointing out  that the outfit was created in response to growing concerns over crime and insecurity in various communities.

    The Commissioner commended Governor Uzodimma for his proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to prioritizing the security and wellbeing of Imo people. “Security remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and economic growth,” Osakwe emphasized.

    He expressed optimism that the new security organisation would strengthen collaboration between conventional security agencies and local communities, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response to security threats.

    The Commissioner therefore called on residents to cooperate with the Imo State Security Organisation and actively participate in community safety initiatives, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

    The high points of the event was the unavailing of security provided by the State government for the 27 Local Governments of the State, as well as awards to Best Legal Lecturer, Best Parade Commander, Best in Drills, Best Guard Commander, Best LGA Chairman on Mobilization  Skills, Best in Academics and Best Behaved Recruit.

    Present at the event were; the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru,  Senators representing Imo West and North – Senators Osita Izunaso and Patrick Ndubueze,  members of the House of Representatives, members of the State House of Assembly, the  Secretary to Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, members of the Imo State expanded Executive Council and other government appointees, Local Government Council Chairmen, Councillors, Heads of Security Agencies and Para-military, traditional rulers among others.

  • AFRD: DCG Igwesi Commends Mbah’s Sustainable Support for Nigerian Legion

    AFRD: DCG Igwesi Commends Mbah’s Sustainable Support for Nigerian Legion

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has been commended by the Deputy Commandant General and Enugu State Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Dr Emeka Norman Igwesi, for his support to the welfare of Nigeria’s ex-servicemen and fallen heroes.

    Igwesi made the commendation during the official unveiling and launch of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem held at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, on Tuesday.

    “Your government has been giving us support and we are actually asking them to do more to support the fallen heroes’ project the more they can and also support the project of the living heroes, not necessarily by way of cash, but by introducing programmes and policies that will help the welfare of the military retirees and fallen heroes’ dependants and widows.

    Dr. Emeka Igwesi, who is also the National Coordinating Commandant, Nigerian Legion Corps of Commissionaires, regretted that many of promises made to the veterans by individuals and corporate organisations during emblem launch and Armed Forces Remembrance Day were usually not fulfilled.

    “Yearly, we gather here to be part of this emblem launch. Some climb this hallowed podium, addressing Nigerians, make pledges and promises, and end up not redeeming them. It is very unfortunate,” he said.

    He, however, commended Mbah for always living up to his words and for the good governance of Enugu State, which also benefits the ex-servicemen and their families.

    He also pushed for a better utilisation of the skills and experience of the ex-servicemen by government, stating that while they were retired, many of them were not tired yet.

    “But we express our profound felicitation and strong support for the governor, for the good works he is doing in the state. You will agree with the military ex-servicemen that Enugu state is fast becoming a modern state.

    “Again, military veterans are highly disciplined and experienced persons. Many are still strong to contribute to the development of the state. The body also has its sub-body called Corps of Commissionaires, who are well trained and young and ready to serve, so we call on the state government to make effective use of the retired military men and our members of the Corps of Commissionaires,” he said.

    He also highlighted other needs such as security vehicles, monthly subvention, offering scholarships to indigent children and orphans of both fallen and living heroes, and empowering widows of servicemen, which he appealed to the governor to look into.

    Igwesi further described Gov. Peter Mbah, in his words, as “the best governor in the world”.

    Speaking, Mbah extolled the sacrifices of Nigeria’s ex-servicemen and fallen heroes for the safety of citizens and the nation’s territorial integrity.

    The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, advocated a better structured and more sustainable means of ensuring a better welfare for the Nigerian Legion.

    “It is important that we express to you how we feel about your selfless sacrifices, secure our democracy, strengthen our ability and above all protect our integrity – ensuring that each and everyone of us is able to explore and exploit our God given talents. So, on behalf of the people of Enugu State, I must say that we are very grateful to you.

    “While veterans’ day, as this when we commemorate the service and make contributions to support you, I think a sustainable relationship through a structure that is organised will make more meaning. So, struggle to put together a programme, engage our office, the government, develop a protocol of engagement on how we can work with you to make things right, meaningfully and sustainably, for those that served.

    “Again, we are a government that has embarked on aggressive efforts to rebuild Enugu State and expand opportunities for those who live here. In a state where we assemble 800 tractors for agriculture, where we are building farm estate in every political ward, where we are expanding our road infrastructure, constructing 260 Smart Schools, 260 Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres, I am sure, if you look inward and develop an engagement protocol, we will be able to develop a partnership that will be sustainable and beneficial to you and to us as a people.

    “So, today is not much about the donations only, but it is about the acknowledgement of the sacrifices that the veterans made – sacrifices rooted in the personal willingness to lay their lives for the rest of us,” he stated.

  • Lagos to establish leadership academy for young people

    Lagos to establish leadership academy for young people

    The Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development said it had concluded plans for the 2026 Ibile Youth Academy.

    This was announced on Thursday by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, at the state secretariat, Alausa, where he reeled out the lineup of activities for the programme.

    According to Ogunlende, the physical screening of applicants will hold from January 5 to 9, 2026, while training will run from January 26 to 29, 2026, across the five divisions of Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe.

    He said a one-day leadership seminar would be held on different days from February 3 to 5, 2026, while the residential boot camp would take place afterwards.

    In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, stressed the importance the ministry attaches to the annual programme.

    Oke-Osanyintolu said, “The Ibile Youth Academy is one of the major programmes of the ministry, designed to inculcate in our youth the virtues of volunteerism, citizenship and leadership.

    “It is aimed at equipping young people, who are expected to take over the mantle of leadership from adults, with everything they need to perform even better than their predecessors in any walk of life they find themselves in.

    “This programme, which aligns perfectly with Mr Governor’s youth development policy under the THEMES Plus Agenda, has over the years produced young leaders who are making waves in different spheres of life.”

    The Permanent Secretary noted that the overall best participant would be selected as the State Youth Ambassador, while the next five outstanding participants would be chosen as divisional ambassadors representing the five divisions of the state.

  • Police disrupt interstate car theft ring in Enugu, recover trucks stolen in Aba, Lagos

    Police disrupt interstate car theft ring in Enugu, recover trucks stolen in Aba, Lagos

    The Enugu State Police Command has disrupted an interstate vehicle theft syndicate and recovered two Mack trucks and a Toyota Highlander Jeep stolen in Abia and Lagos states.

    The police said operatives attached to the Emene Police Division recovered the two Mack trucks on December 22, 2025, following credible intelligence on truck theft. The trucks—a yellow Mack truck conveying a 40-foot container and a white Mack truck without a registration number—were recovered in Emene, Enugu State.

    According to the police, the trucks were stolen in Aba, Abia State, and transported to Enugu to be sold before they were intercepted by operatives.

    Two suspects, Okenwa Chinedu, 33, and Adaka Emmanuel, 28, were arrested in connection with the incident. Okenwa allegedly conveyed the stolen trucks from Aba to Enugu, while Adaka was said to be a prospective buyer.

    Preliminary investigations showed that Okenwa is a Mack truck mechanic based in Aba, while Adaka is a scrap dealer. The owners of the recovered vehicles have since identified them, as investigations continue to track other members of the syndicate.

    In a related operation, operatives of the Uwani Police Division arrested Emmanuel Chukwu on December 17, 2025, while he was attempting to sell a stolen Toyota Highlander Jeep at a car stand in Uwani, Enugu.

    The ox-blood-coloured Toyota Highlander, with registration number AGL 929 FX, was reportedly stolen from Isolo, Lagos State. The suspect and the recovered vehicle have been transferred to the police division in Lagos where the theft was initially reported for further investigation.

    Commending the operatives, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, praised their professionalism and swift response. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to public safety and urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible infor mation.

  • Citing Global Tensions, Gov Mbah Tasks Enugu MDAs on N870bn IGR Target

    Citing Global Tensions, Gov Mbah Tasks Enugu MDAs on N870bn IGR Target

    …Promises Renewed Vigour

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has tasked the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the state government to meet the N870 billion target projected in the state’s 2026 budget, citing the unpredictability of external revenue sources like the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) allocation, given the prevailing geo-political tensions around the globe.

    Mbah gave the charge on Monday during a Holy Mass at the Government House Chapel to formally kick-start work in all government offices in the new year.

    He said that given global developments, the state should not allow itself to be taken unawares.

    Recall that Mbah recently signed a record N1.62 trillion 2026 budget, which he explained would be funded through an anticipated N870 billion IGR, N387 billion FAAC allocation, and N329 billion capital receipts.

    Speaking at the Holy Mass attended by the heads and members of the three arms of government, political office holders, captains of industry, traditional rulers, among other critical stakeholders, he called on all political appointees and civil servants alike to redouble their efforts, noting that the projected IGR could come from the quality of service they render to businesses and the people of the state.

    “Given all the geo-political tensions across the globe, it is not going to be easy, particularly with our revenue projections. We just do not have clarity as to the direction things would go. It is extremely important we ensure that we realise the domestic revenue projection we set for ourselves this year so that we are then able to absorb the shock coming from all these geo-political tensions across the globe.

    “To realise that projection comes from doing your own bit. We have ambitious revenue targets across the different MDAs. Our revenue comes based on the speed and quality of services you render. Let us have a renewed vigour to do our own bit and play our own roles,” he stated.

    He stressed the need for dedication and team spirit among the state’s civil servants in 2026, describing them as the anvil of whatever the administration achieves or fails to achieve in the new year.

    “Importantly, to our workers, we are still going to be counting on your support as civil servants and Permanent Secretaries. We have always said that you are the engine room of whatever success we achieve. We have to double down this year. Those little things we do, getting to work on time, treating documents expeditiously, and making sure that we play our own part in the scheme of things, matter a lot.

    “We also have to continue to be champions of teamwork. We have to essentially understand that we are only as good as our weakest link. We need to support one another, knowing that we are working for one common objective; to serve the people,” he said.

    While thanking the people of the state and the church for their continued prayers, good counsel, and support, he stressed the need for undiluted and unfettered feedback.

    “We do not lay claim to being perfect. What we lay claim to is our resolve to serve the people optimally. That is why undiluted feedback and holding us to account become very important,” he concluded.

    In his homily, the Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Rev. Fr. Anthony Udeh, described Governor Mbah as a servant leader earnestly dedicated to the wellbeing of his people.

    He cited the thousands of both completed and ongoing projects as well as reforms initiated by the Mbah Administration, saying that such could only come from a leader with a burning passion to serve his people and build a better future for the children of the state and posterity.

    The Holy Mass was attended by high-profile government functionaries, including the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Afojulu Ozoemena; and the Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, among a host of others.

  • Troops dismantle suicide bombing network, intercept terrorists’ logistics in Adamawa

    Troops dismantle suicide bombing network, intercept terrorists’ logistics in Adamawa

    Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have dismantled a suspected suicide bombing network and intercepted logistics believed to be meant for terrorists during separate operations in Adamawa state.

    The military said the operations were part of intensified cordon-and-search efforts targeting those behind the Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing.

    According to the Joint Task Force (North East), troops carried out a coordinated operation in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South LGA in the early hours of January 5, arresting eight suspects. Two of those apprehended were described as principal facilitators in the suicide bombing network.

    Items recovered from the suspects’ residence included cash, mobile phones, identification documents, ATM cards, jewellery, and other personal effects. The items are undergoing forensic analysis to aid ongoing investigations.

    The military said a suspect already in custody identified the two principal suspects as suppliers of materials used in assembling the improvised explosive device. Other occupants of the residence were also linked to the network.

    All suspects are currently in military custody and undergoing interrogation before being handed over for further investigation.

    In a related operation on January 4, troops intercepted suspected terrorists’ logistics in Mayo Nguli, Maiha LGA. The soldiers seized 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit, estimated at about 1,125 litres, believed to have been smuggled for terrorist use.

    The suppliers reportedly fled on sighting the troops, abandoning the fuel, which has been taken into military custody. No casualties were recorded during the operation.

    The military said the operations underscore its resolve to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt supply chains, prevent future attacks, and bring collaborators to justice. It also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to sustain security across the North East.