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BORNO GOVERNOR GRANTS PARDON TO 66 INMATES ON DEMOCRACY DAY

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has granted state and partial pardons to 66 inmates at the Maiduguri Maximum Custodial Centre as part of activities to commemorate the 2025 Democracy Day. During his visit to the facility, Zulum commuted some death sentences to life imprisonment and reduced other jail terms. “Based on the powers conferred on me under Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, I hereby grant state and partial pardons to 66 inmates of the Maximum Custodial Centre,” Zulum declared. The governor also announced plans to enhance vocational training at the prison, introducing programs in literacy, numeracy, and digital skills. “I have directed the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation to liaise with the management of Maiduguri Maximum Custodial Centre to enhance the vocational training centre, ensuring the provision of intensive literacy, numeracy and digital skills,” he said. In a gesture of goodwill, Zulum donated 300 bags of rice, 50 jerrycans of cooking oil, and five cows to the inmates. Each of the 1,280 inmates also received a cash gift of ₦20,000, which will be managed by officials of the Correctional Centre. “Let me clarify that the ₦20,000 cash assistance will be handed over to officials of the Correctional Centre, as stipulated by law, but you will have access to it whenever needed,” Zulum emphasized. Controller of Borno State Correctional Service, Ahmed Bawa, commended the governor for his unprecedented support, describing it as the first of its kind. “This is the first time in history that we have received such immense support from the Borno State Government under the leadership of Professor Babagana Umara Zulum,” Bawa said. Inmate leader Daniel Simon also praised the governor’s magnanimity, expressing gratitude that the dividends of good governance under Zulum’s leadership are being felt even in the correctional centre.

FORMER NIGERIAN ARMY CHIEF LT. GEN. BURATAI NARROWLY ESCAPES DEATH IN BOKO HARAM ATTACK

A recent attack in Borno State has put Nigeria’s security situation in the spotlight once again. Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, narrowly escaped death when his convoy was ambushed by suspected Boko Haram insurgents near a military base. The attackers targeted high-value equipment, including armored vehicles and tanks, some of which were destroyed or stolen. Buratai served as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff from 2015 to 2021 and was a central figure in the country’s counterinsurgency campaign. Since his retirement, he has remained an influential figure in security circles. This incident highlights the growing concerns about the country’s security landscape. Lawmaker representing Borno South, Senator Ali Ndume described the situation as a “full-blown crisis,” with insurgents moving freely and attacking military personnel and equipment. The threat from groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa is significant, and Nigeria is considered one of the countries with the highest terrorism threat levels globally. The attackers reportedly targeted high-value equipment, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles (MRAPVs), tanks, and machine guns. In some cases, the insurgents not only destroy these assets but also cart away weaponry and equipment. The security challenges in Nigeria are not limited to the North-East region. According to Senator Ndume, all six geopolitical zones are experiencing security issues, including violent conflict, banditry, and economic sabotage like oil theft. The South-West region appears to be the only relatively safe area. The attack on Buratai has sparked renewed calls for a more effective approach to addressing Nigeria’s security problems.

MANY KILLED IN BORNO BUS STOP BOMBING

A devastating explosion occurred at a local bus stop in Mairari village, Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State, killing many passengers and injuring several others. The incident happened around 11am on Sunday after an improvised explosive device (IED) planted at the bus stop detonated. The Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, confirmed the incident, expressing his condolences to the families of the deceased. “It is unfortunate that many of my resilient constituents were killed by planted IEDs while waiting to board vehicles at a local bus stop in Mairari village,” Lawan said. He explained that the village, which was previously resettled twice with civil authority, has been deserted due to Boko Haram/ISWAP attacks. Many people who have taken refuge in nearby towns often visit Mairari to engage in farming, and the terrorists have been monitoring their movements. Lawan appealed to the military and other security agencies to restore safety in Guzamala, especially in Gudumbali, the council headquarters, Mairari village, and surrounding areas, which have been under Boko Haram control without civil authority for many years. “May Allah grant their souls Aljanatul Firdaus,” Lawan prayed, also wishing for the swift recovery of those injured in the incident. The lawmaker’s appeal highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the need for increased protection for civilians.

MOTHER AND CHILD AMONG SEVERAL KILLED IN CHIBOK VILLAGE BOMB BLAST

A devastating incident occurred on Monday in Sikarkur village, Chibok Local Government, Borno State, as a notorious terrorist sect, Boko Haram, attacked the village, leaving many dead, including a mother and child. The tragedy occurred when a civilian vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) reportedly planted by the Islamic State-affiliated faction of Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). According to local sources, the IED was likely intended to target military vehicles patrolling the area. “Yesterday, Boko Haram set a trap bomb on a road in Sikarkur village for soldiers. Sadly, a civilian vehicle ran over it, killing many people, including a mother and her baby,” a resident revealed. The sister who was with her and others are receiving treatment at Chibok General Hospital. This incident is part of a series of recent attacks by ISWAP in the region, including the burning of a church and multiple homes in neighboring communities. Since the death of Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau, ISWAP has increased its operations in Northern Nigeria, particularly around Lake Chad. The group has absorbed many former Boko Haram fighters, bolstering its ranks and intensifying its activities in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. The use of IEDs and ambush tactics continues to pose a significant challenge for military forces combating insurgency in the region. These attacks have caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands and displaced millions over the years. Chibok gained international attention in April 2014 following the abduction of 276 schoolgirls by Boko Haram, sparking global outrage and advocacy for their release. While some of the girls have been rescued, others remain unaccounted for. The Nigerian government and military continue efforts to address insurgency threats, but attacks like these underscore the persistent security challenges in the region.

BORNO STATE ESTABLISHES CATTLE RANCHES IN 3 SENATORIAL DISTRICTS

In a groundbreaking move, the Borno State Government has established three modern cattle ranches in the state’s three senatorial districts. This collaborative initiative between the Federal Government and Borno State Government marks a significant step towards addressing the country’s agricultural and security challenges. According to Professor Attahiru Jega, Co-Chair of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Committee, Governor Babagana Zulum is “first among equals” in implementing the Federal Government’s livestock reform program. Jega commended Zulum’s vision and commitment to livestock development, stating, “I must say that I witnessed something I had never seen in our country today. We have seen today the vision of a leader, the passion and commitment to what clearly will help drive economic growth, uplift the lives and livelihood of people and provide employment to our citizens.” The three ranches, located in Mafa, Askira Uba, and Gubio Local Government Areas, are designed as integrated communities with facilities including military units, police stations, grazing areas, hospitals, schools, and markets. Each resident is provided with a “starter pack” consisting of a fully furnished house, livestock, food items, clothing, and cash support. Governor Zulum warned beneficiaries to remain committed to the ranching scheme, emphasizing the need to take full advantage of the facility. The ranching scheme is expected to modernize the livestock value chain, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and increase livestock yields for internal consumption and export. The Minister of Livestock Development, Hon. Maiha, recognized Governor Zulum as a Brand Ambassador for his commitment to livestock development. Zulum, a Professor of Agricultural Engineering, is pursuing a vision of agricultural development and livestock reform with a team of experienced experts and administrators.

IGP ORDERS CLAMPDOWN ON ATTACKERS OF POLICE STATION IN BORNO

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has condemned the recent explosion attack at Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters, Borno State, which resulted in the death of two police officers. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed in a statement that the IGP has ordered an immediate and thorough clampdown on the perpetrators, emphasizing that “any cop-killers will go unpunished.” Adejobi further stated that the IGP expresses deep condolences to the families of the deceased officers, Inspector Bartholomew Kalawa and Corporal Mustapha Huzaifat, affirming that their sacrifice in the line of duty will not be forgotten. The IGP has assured that their benefits and entitlements will be immediately paid to their families. Adejobi stated that the IGP has directed the Zone 15 Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, to mobilize adequate resources and personnel, collaborate with other security agencies to ensure the perpetrators of this nefarious act are found and caused to face the full wrath of the law. As investigations continue, Adejobi quoted the IGP as reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to holding accountable those who jeopardize and disrupt the security arrangement and safety in Nigeria.

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONDEMNS TERRORIST ATTACK ON ARMY BASE IN BORNO, PRAISES MILITARY RESPONSE

President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt sympathy to the military authorities and families of the six brave soldiers who lost their lives during a dawn terrorist attack on January 4, 2025, on an army base in Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State. In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commends the armed forces for their swift and decisive response to the attack. Bayo Onanuga stated that the President calls for a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident and ensure that it serves as a valuable lesson to prevent similar occurrences. Onanuga added that President Tinubu praises the targeted air raids launched by the air component, which resulted in the significant neutralisation of numerous terrorists and the destruction of their assets as they attempted to flee. President Tinubu remarks: “This resolute action by the Army demonstrates the capability and readiness of our military to confront and defeat threats to our nation’s security. Their actions testify to our resolve to eradicate terrorism and banditry, paving the way for a future where peace and security prevail for all Nigerians.” Furthermore, President Tinubu urges the military to proactively take the war to the camps of bandits and terrorists, particularly in the Northwest, where these criminals continue to threaten the lives and homes of innocent villagers. Onanuga noted that the President also appeals to Nigerians and the media to support the military’s efforts to restore peace and security in the country.

BORNO STATE GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES PETROL SUBSIDY FOR FARMERS IN INSURGENCY-HIT COMMUNITIES

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has announced a significant reduction in the cost of petrol for farmers in insurgency-hit communities, from N1,200 to N600 per litre. This move aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by farmers in communities that have suffered economic and infrastructural destruction due to years of conflict. The subsidy was announced during the flag-off ceremony for the distribution of farm inputs to over 5,000 farmers in Bama town, who were previously displaced by Boko Haram insurgents. Governor Zulum emphasized that the subsidy would help address one of the major challenges faced by farming communities in the area, namely the increasing cost of fuel for irrigation farming. “One of the major challenges that are facing the farming communities here as regards irrigation farming is the increasing cost of fuel. As a result, I want to announce to the general public that government will procure petroleum products and sell to the farmers at a subsidised rate,” Governor Zulum said. In addition to the petrol subsidy, the governor also distributed farm inputs to support the farmers. This initiative is part of the state government’s efforts to boost agricultural productivity and enhance food security in the region. Governor Zulum has also promised to construct additional tube wells for irrigation farmers, with over 100 already built and plans for an additional 250. The governor’s announcement has been welcomed by farmers in the region, who have been struggling to cope with the high cost of fuel and other agricultural inputs. The subsidy is expected to help reduce the financial burden on farmers and enable them to increase their productivity and contribute to the region’s food security.

VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA COMMISERATES WITH VICTIMS OF MILITARY AIR STRIKE IN SOKOTO, PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT TO GOV NAMADI IN JIGAWA

Vice President Kashim Shettima has extended his condolences to the government and people of Sokoto State over the loss of lives in the coordinated joint operation against the Lakurawa terrorist groups in Silame Local Government Area, as stated by Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha. About 10 villagers lost their lives on December 25, 2024, when the military targeted a logistics base of the Lakurawa insurgent group, leaving many others injured. Senator Shettima expressed regret over the incident, soliciting more support for the troops. He noted that with useful information, the officers will maintain accuracy and precision in fishing out the terrorists from among innocent villagers. According to Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima assured the people of the state of federal government’s support, vowing that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not rest until terror groups and other criminal elements are completely wiped out of the country. Shettima said, “I would like to extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the Government and people of Sokoto State, particularly families of those who lost their lives… I must say we are sorry and dismayed at the civilian casualties incurred and the excruciating pain that ensues in these extremely difficult times.” Meanwhile, Vice President Shettima led a delegation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on a condolence visit to the government and people of Jigawa State on the passing of the mother and son of the state governor, Alhaji Umar Namadi. As reported by Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima was accompanied on the visit by Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State and other top government functionaries. During the condolence visit, the VP noted that “death is an inevitable destiny that is hanging on everyone’s neck.” He said, “We are here on a very sad note to condole with you over the loss of the matriarch of your family and pillar of support for you and followed sadly by that of your beloved son. May Allah grant the souls of the deceased eternal rest and Aljannah Firdaus.”