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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has decried the recent wave of violent attacks across Nigeria, warning that the growing insecurity threatens the nation’s unity, peace, and stability, while also expressing gratitude to the United States for its support in combating terrorism.

In a statement posted on his official X account on Saturday, Atiku criticised the surge in violence, describing the incidents as unacceptable and harmful to the country’s identity.

He denounced the “continued acts of terrorism and brigandage,” stressing that such attacks on civilians “must never be allowed to define who we are as a people.”

The former vice president also sympathised with victims and affected communities, urging authorities to take decisive and coordinated action to tackle the worsening security situation.

“The foremost responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. It is therefore imperative that renewed urgency, coordination, and resolve be brought to bear in confronting this challenge and restoring public confidence,” he said.

Atiku further acknowledged the role of international partners, particularly the United States, in supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

“I also acknowledge, with appreciation, the continued support of the President and Government of the United States of America in the global fight against terrorism. This cooperation underscores the importance of sustained international partnership in addressing threats to peace and security,” he wrote.

His remarks come amid a fresh spate of deadly incidents in different parts of the country.

In Borno State, a coordinated attack on a military formation in Benisheikh resulted in the deaths of soldiers from the 29 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI, including Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah, with several vehicles and facilities destroyed.

The North-East continues to grapple with insurgency linked to Boko Haram and breakaway factions such as the Islamic State West Africa Province, despite prolonged military operations.

During the Easter period, separate attacks in Kaduna and Benue states also left casualties and abductions. In Kaduna, gunmen stormed churches in Ariko village, Kachia Local Government Area, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 people. In Benue, suspected armed herders killed 10 residents in Gwer East Local Government Area.

Violence was also reported in other regions, including fresh bandit assaults in Katsina State where a police officer was killed, and an attack on the Awapul community in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, where homes and shops were set ablaze.

Additionally, coordinated attacks in Kebbi and Kwara states reportedly claimed at least 49 lives, with Kebbi recording 44 deaths across several communities in Shanga Local Government Area.

Despite the grim situation, Atiku expressed confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, saying, “Nigeria will endure, and with collective resolve, we shall prevail.”

The post Atiku condemns terror attacks in Nigeria, thanks US for support appeared first on Vanguard News.

The Benue State House of Assembly has passed into law a bill establishing a Forestry, Mines and Solid Minerals Commission, marking a significant step toward economic diversification and environmental protection.

The move is expected to strengthen regulation in the state’s resource sector while addressing concerns around sustainability and local benefits.

The bill scaled third reading during plenary presided over by Speaker Rt. Hon. Berger Alfred Emberga. It followed a detailed report by the House Committee on Lands, Survey, Solid Minerals, and Environment.

Lawmakers say the new commission will coordinate the exploration and management of forest and mineral resources without clashing with federal agencies.

It is designed to attract investment through Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), while enabling the state to collect land use fees and surface rents.

The law also mandates environmental safeguards, including reforestation, and seeks to regulate mining and logging activities to improve security.

Host communities are expected to benefit through Community Development Agreements, which may deliver schools, clinics, and clean water.

The Assembly also passed the Benue State Road Maintenance Agency bill, aimed at addressing deteriorating road infrastructure and improving safety.
In addition, electricity and traffic management bills were approved to regulate energy supply especially in underserved areas and enforce vehicle inspection standards.

With multiple bills passed in a single sitting, attention now shifts to implementation. Observers say the success of these laws will depend on transparency, funding, and how effectively they impact everyday life in Benue communities.

Benue Assembly passes Forestry, Mining Commission bill to boost economy, environment

The Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, Bright Abeke, was reportedly abducted on Friday evening.

It was gathered that the incident occurred at about 7:25 p.m. at a hotel located along Owumi Road.

Eyewitnesses stated that unidentified gunmen arrived at the scene in a vehicle and opened fire before taking the chairman to an unknown location.

During the disturbance, a local vigilante member identified as Ufuoma and another individual were said to have sustained injuries.

The injured vigilante has since been taken to a medical facility, though his current condition has not been officially confirmed.

As of the time of this report, authorities have not released any official statement regarding the incident.

Supporters and associates of the chairman have gathered in the area seeking information on the chairman’s whereabouts while expressing concern over his safety.

Unknown gunmen kidnap Delta council chairman

By Steve Oko

Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, has thrown his weight behind Governor Alex Otti’s re-election bid, declaring that the governor “deserves a second term” to consolidate what he described as “unmatched achievements.”

This is as a group known as Alex Otti 4+4 Movement, said it had launched a massive grassroots mobilisation to galvanise support for Otti’s re-election bid.

Emeruwa spoke at an endorsement event for Otti organised by the Vanguard Movement for Continuity (VMC) in Owerrinta, Isiala Ngwa South LGA, where the group formally backed Otti for a second tenure in 2027.

Representing the governor at the event held at Adventist Technical Secondary College (ASTEC), the Speaker said Otti’s impact across sectors has redefined governance in the state.

“His scorecard is unmatched. Development is ongoing simultaneously across all sectors, and even the opposition cannot deny his achievements,” Emeruwa said, adding that Abians are regaining confidence in the state, with many returning home to invest.

He described the governor as “God-sent” to revive Abia, insisting that Otti “is not an option” in the next election cycle.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the group and General Manager of the Abia State Debt Management Office, Kingsley Nwaigburu, explained that VMC is a broad-based platform for supporters of good governance determined to ensure Otti’s return in 2027.

According to him, the administration has cleared salary and pension arrears, improved healthcare and education infrastructure, rehabilitated roads and bridges, enhanced security, and created a more business-friendly environment that is attracting investors.

The event also featured the launch of a book titled “Threats to Societal Values and Advancement” authored by Fineboy Joseph, a lecturer at Clifford University, Owerrinta.

Joseph said the book was inspired by growing moral decay in society, highlighting issues such as drug abuse, cultism, corruption, and declining value systems, while proposing practical solutions.

The Vice Chancellor of Clifford University, Chimezie Omeonu, described the publication as timely, urging institutions and individuals to embrace its message.

Other stakeholders at the event echoed support for the governor, citing visible infrastructure development and improved governance as reasons for backing his second-term ambition.

Vanguard reports that Otti had also been endorsed by several other groups as the political momentum begins to build ahead of the 2027 governorship race in the State.

Group begins grassroots mobilisation for Otti

In a related development, a group known as Alex Otti 4+4 Movement said it had launched a massive grassroots mobilisation to canvas support for Otti.

The move, according to the group, “is to ensure continuity of the on-going good governance, economic transformation and sustainable development across Abia State”.

Chairman of the group, Hon. Chibueze Okah, in a statement, said the group was impressed by Otti’s scorecard and strongly believed he would consolidate on the gains of his administration if given another opportunity.

He said the objectives of the group included voter education and awareness; voter registration drives; monitoring government performance for accountability and effective project delivery; economic advocacy among others.

The post Why Otti deserves 2nd term – Abia Speaker appeared first on Vanguard News.

A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Saturday that the United States has agreed to release frozen Iranian assets held in Qatar and several other foreign banks in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Iranian official described the move as a sign of “seriousness” in efforts to strike a deal with Washington during talks in Islamabad, Pakistan.

The US is yet to publicly comment on the reported asset release.

Speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, the source said the unfreezing is “directly linked to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” which is expected to be a central topic in the negotiations.

The $6 billion — initially frozen in 2018 — was scheduled for release in 2023 as part of a US-Iranian prisoner exchange.

However, the former United States President Joe Biden’s administration re-froze the funds after the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel by Hamas, the Palestinian militant group and Iranian ally.

At the time, US officials said Iran would not be able to access the money for the foreseeable future, stressing that Washington reserved the right to freeze the account entirely.

The assets originated from Iranian oil sales to South Korea and had been blocked in South Korean banks after then-President Donald Trump reimposed sanctions on Iran in 2018, during his first term, and withdrew from a multinational nuclear deal with Tehran.

Strait of Hormuz: US to release frozen Iranian assets in exchange for ‘safe passage’

By Samuel Oyadongha & Emem Idio

President Bola Tinubu has showered praise on Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, describing him as a “very progressive governor” who has demonstrated the “power of very purposeful leadership.”

Speaking at a stakeholders meeting held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall, Yenagoa during a working visit to the state where he commissioned a series of projects, the President lauded the governor’s commitment to transforming Bayelsa State.

Among the projects commissioned were the iconic 630 meters Angiama-Oporoma bridge across the River Nun, linking Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, one of the largest councils in the country to mainland Yenagoa.

The Bayelsa West segment of the senatorial roads, a corridor that will link communities from Sagbama to Agge, including Tungbo, Ekeremor, and Ofoni was virtually inaugurated. The third project was a dualised road into the fast-developing New Yenagoa City that would unlock new economic opportunities and mobility.

While praising the Bayelsa governor, President Tinubu said, “You have done a great job. I have commissioned some projects, very transformative projects, creating opportunities and jobs and hope for our nation. Thank you for that commitment.”

The President specifically highlighted the newly commissioned Independent Power Project (IPP), calling it a “blessing” and a cornerstone for future growth.

“There can be no industrialisation and skill development without power. That is a vision,” Tinubu declared. “I assure Nigerians that we will have electricity to power our growth.”

Emphasising the synergy between the state and federal governments, the President noted that the projects serve as proof of what can be achieved when both tiers of government work with a “shared purpose.”

“In our party, the APC, we believe that the people deserve to see governance translated into roads, bridges, power, jobs, and real opportunities that affect human beings,” he stated.

On the nation’s security challenges, Tinubu acknowledged the memory of past leaders who fought the battles of security, promising that the current administration will not relent.

“We will work hard. We will continue to train our men of the armed forces. We will defeat terrorism and banditry, regardless of their shenanigans,” he vowed.

The President referred to Bayelsa State as the “goose that lays the golden egg,” pledging continued federal support to ensure a “golden Niger Delta.”

He urged the governor to continue on the path of transparency and honesty, offering his full backing for further developmental projects.

“The spirit of partnership that you mentioned is there,” Tinubu concluded. “I will support you to do more. This is my assurance to Bayelsa State and Nigeria: we will continue to focus on development that makes our nation grow.”

Earlier, Governor Douye Diri, who received the President alongside top APC chieftains, thanked Tinubu for the visit and the recognition of the state’s strides in infrastructure and peace-building.

Diri described President Tinubu’s visit to the state as a “fitting witness to history” to commission four major legacy projects, including a long-awaited bridge first promised by the federal government over six decades ago.

The governor described the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma Bridge as the righting of a “historical injustice” against one of Nigeria’s top oil-producing local government areas.

He said: “This is a project promised by the Federal Government more than six decades ago, long predating your administration but left to gather dust in bureaucratic files.

“We are delighted that the modest effort of the Government of Assured Prosperity has finally addressed this pain.”

The bridge is expected to slash travel times and reduce transportation costs for over 60 communities in Southern Ijaw and Brass Local Government Areas, acting as a catalyst for local economic activity.

The governor credited the Federal Government’s policy reforms, particularly in the power sector, for enabling the state to deliver a 60-megawatt gas-fired independent power project, aimed at improving electricity supply and boosting economic activities.

“Your administration’s decisive interventions have paved the way for meaningful reforms, enabling us to deliver reliable, independent energy,” he said.

Diri noted that the newly commissioned projects, together with a 30,000-seat international stadium and a nine-storey state secretariat under construction, form a coherent strategic investment anchored in the state’s prosperity agenda.

According to the governor, the Yenagoa/Oporoma/Ukubie, Nembe/Brass, and Sagbama/Ekeremor/Agge road projects form strategic senatorial corridors that terminate at the Atlantic Ocean, positioning Bayelsa to tap into the vast potentials of the blue economy.

Diri reiterated the state’s commitment to aligning with the Federal Government’s blue economy initiative, noting that Bayelsa had taken the lead by establishing a dedicated Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

The governor, however, appealed for similar support for other ongoing road projects, including the Sagbama–Ekeremor–Agge and Yenagoa–Oporoma–Ukubie roads, and requested reimbursement for phases already executed by the state.

Diri concluded by reaffirming Bayelsa’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Federal Government, expressing optimism that the projects would enhance connectivity, economic growth, and overall development in the state and beyond.

Dignitaries present at the event were APC governors, Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Walson-Jack, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Speaker Bayelsa State House of Assembly, top government officials and traditional rulers, among others.

The post Tinubu hails Bayelsa governor’s development strides appeared first on Vanguard News.

By Steve Oko

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has issued a stern directive to newly qualified medical graduates, mandating them to complete their compulsory housemanship training within two years of registration or face a mandatory competency assessment.

MDCN Registrar Professor Fatima Kyari, who gave the warning during the induction ceremony of fresh medical doctors at Gregory University Uturu, said anyone who failed to meet the deadline “must prove continued competence to the Council or sit for and pass an assessment exam before proceeding.”

The Registrar, who was represented by the Head of the Department of Registration, Tijjani Mandaka, urged fresh medical graduates to secure placements immediately after obtaining provisional licenses, warning that expired licenses would automatically attract the assessment test.

“Housemanship training is a critical step in your professional journey. You are required to complete the housemanship within two years of your registration,” she said.

She urged graduates to secure placements immediately after obtaining provisional licenses, noting that expired licenses would also attract the test.

Kyari explained that housemanship lasts 12 months, covering all branches—Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Pediatrics—adding that it is required for full registration and eligibility for the National Youth Service.

She also cautioned against unethical conduct, stressing that any misconduct would be investigated and sanctioned.

Kyari commended the management of GUU for its efforts in training medical professionals while pledging continued partnership of the Council.

The registrar urged the fresh medical graduates to carry on their profession with utmost commitment and dedication.

“Medicine is a profession that demands not only knowledge and skills but also empathy and integrity. Please approach your practice with humility, kindness, and commitment to patients and their care.”

In his address read by the Vice Chancellor of Administration, Prof. Uwaoma Uche, the Founder of the university, Prof. Greg Ibe, charged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of medical practice, prioritize patients’ care, and contribute positively to the development of the health sector.

Reiterating that the establishment of the university was driven by his vision for massive human empowerment, particularly in the medical field, Prof Ibe expressed willingness to continue to invest in the education sector.

In a remark, the pro-chancellor of the university, Professor Augustine Uwakwe, reminded the graduands that they were transiting from knowledge acquisition to its application and charged them to handle their patients with care and empathy.

He also enjoined them to uphold the core values of the university—uncompromising integrity, compassionate service, innovation, and lifelong learning.

In her speech, the vice-chancellor, Prof. Cele Njoku, also advised the graduates to continue improving in their knowledge and to embrace technological innovation.

She charged them to strive for excellence and to treat their patients with respect and to be good ambassadors of the institution.

Congratulating the graduates for successfully enduring and navigating the rigors of their training, the VC reiterated the determination of the institution to provide quality training for medical personnel.

In a separate induction ceremony for medical laboratory graduates of the institution, the VC tasked the graduands on the accuracy of laboratory tests, as the consequences of a wrong diagnosis could be very devastating.

“The responsibility placed on you is enormous. The accuracy of your work directly impacts patients’ care and outcomes. “Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct,” she advised.

The VC, who noted that medical laboratory science plays a critical role in health service delivery, pledged the commitment of the institution to producing globally competitive graduates.

Inducting the graduands, the acting registrar of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), Dr. Donald Ofili, charged them to adhere to ethical standards in the course of their practice.

The MLSCN boss, who was represented by Dr. Gregory Uchuno, challenged the graduates to make quality contributions that would improve the profession, which, he noted, “is very crucial for health service delivery.”

“Don’t exchange samples that will create problems for generations to come,” he cautioned.

Delivering a keynote address, Dr. Bernard Agumah of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike, ‘Ebonyi State, decried the activities of quacks in the profession and called for a crackdown against the perpetrators, highlighting the danger they pose to society.

“People are dying of diseases that should have been cured because quacks gave wrong diagnoses,” he lamented.

In her valedictory speech, the best graduating student, Patricia Enugu, commended lecturers and management of the institution for giving them the best to excel.

She promised to contribute towards improving laboratory science practice in Nigeria.

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The post Finish housemanship within two years or face test – MDCN warns medical graduates appeared first on Vanguard News.

CanaanLand Golf Course and Country Club has called for improved infrastructure and increased participation of women and youth in golf.

Chairman of CanaanLand Golf Course and Country Club, Felix Aganbi, in a statement, said there are significant investment opportunities in Delta State.

He added that there is a need to grow golf in Nigeria through youth development, a warm and inclusive culture, and stronger collaboration between public and private sector actors.

Aganbi made this known as the club announced a series of activities to mark its second anniversary.

The statement read: “A significant 18-hole golf tournament featuring professional and amateur players, as well as international talent, will begin on Friday, May 8, and end on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Koko Town, Warri North Local Government Area.

“The second anniversary of CanaanLand Golf & Country Club will bring together business leaders, corporate stakeholders, public office holders, community leaders, and sportsmen and women from within and outside the country.

“Tagged ‘Inclusive and Remarkable Celebration,’ Aganbi emphasised how the club has transformed golf from an exclusive sport in the Niger Delta into a more widely embraced recreational activity.

“He highlighted two years of steady growth, expansion of the club’s facilities, investment in junior and academy programmes, promotion of amateur and recreational golf, and real estate development in Koko.

“The business mogul also announced side sports such as table tennis, badminton, and darts; a give-back programme focusing on eye care and comprehensive health check-ups at the Christiana Aganbi Sickbay; an anniversary meeting; networking opportunities for local and foreign investors; a boat cruise; refreshments; and an award presentation as part of the anniversary activities.

“An 18-hole golf course, clubhouse and recreational areas, Khashoggi Restaurant (lakeside dining experience), gazebos for relaxation and social gatherings, a smart hall for events and indoor activities, Chris Castle Apartments for accommodation, Christiana Aganbi Sickbay, a badminton court, and table tennis facilities are key features of the CanaanLand Golf Course and Country Club.”

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Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has condemned the deadly attack on the 15 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, revealing that troops had received intelligence about the impending assault three days before it occurred.

The governor made this known on Saturday during a sympathy visit to Benisheikh, following the Thursday morning attack on the military formation and the surrounding community, which claimed the life of Brigade Commander, Braimoh Oseni, and several others.

He described the incident as shocking, particularly in light of prior intelligence indicating a possible strike by suspected insurgents.

Highlighting what he considered a critical lapse, Zulum stressed that security agencies had prior warning of the attack but failed to prevent it.

He called for an urgent review of the military’s operational framework and intelligence response systems to better address evolving threats across conflict-prone areas.

“This is one of the most surprising attacks that I have witnessed in recent times.

“There was information about this attack about three days ago. There is a need for the military to review its strategies and strengthen its response mechanisms,” Zulum said.

He emphasised the need to review security protocols, noting that credible intelligence about the impending attack had been available for approximately three days.

During his visit, the governor engaged local authorities on their awareness of the intelligence reports.

Confirmation from the local council chairman that such warnings had been received further underscored concerns about gaps in coordination and response, which Zulum noted allowed the attack to proceed despite advance notice.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to security, Zulum stated that the state government would intensify support for military personnel, local vigilantes, and affected communities.

He stressed the need to strengthen grassroots defence mechanisms to prevent Benisheikh from falling under insurgent control.

In a related development, Zulum extended support to the family of a fallen military officer, Lt. Col. OC Okolo, who was killed during a separate attack by Boko Haram at Mandaragirau in Biu Local Government Area on February 16, 2026.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Security, retired Brig. Gen. Abdullahi Sabi Ishaq, the governor presented a N50m donation to the family during a funeral service held on April 10, 2026, in Obinofia Ndiuno, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

According to the governor’s spokesman, Dauda Illiya, the donation formed part of ongoing efforts by the Borno State Government to support families of personnel killed or injured in counter-insurgency operations.

“My heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, friends and colleagues of Lt. Col. Okolo on his painful demise.

“Lt. Col. OC Okolo was a gallant, dedicated and committed officer of the nation whose contributions will not be forgotten” Zulum said.

Responding on behalf of the family, Prof. Stanley Okolo expressed appreciation for the gesture, noting that the donation and the presence of government representatives at the funeral demonstrated solidarity during a difficult time.

“The family members were particularly touched by this donation of N50m and the delegations sent from Maiduguri to attend the funeral service despite the short notice,” Stanley stated.

He also commended the Chief of Army Staff and the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, for sending representatives.

The funeral service drew attendance from senior military officials, including representatives of the Chief of Army Staff, operational commanders, members of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, and members of the host community, reflecting the continued impact of insurgency-related violence on military personnel and their families.

Credible Intelligence Received Days Before Attack That Killed General — Zulum is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

A senior US official denied on Saturday a report saying Washington had agreed to release Iran’s frozen assets held in Qatar and other foreign banks.

Iranian and US delegations have arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan for talks aimed at ending the war in the Middle East.

Tehran earlier said any agreement on a permanent end to fighting must include the unfreezing of sanctioned Iranian assets and an end to Israel’s war on Hezbollah in Lebanon.

An unnamed “senior Iranian source” told news outlet Reuters that the United States had agreed to unfreeze the assets and that the move was directly linked to ensuring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a message from the White House, a senior US official responded to the report saying, “False. The meetings have not even started yet.”

On Saturday, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met US Vice President JD Vance in Islamabad, the former’s office said, adding that peace talks to end the Middle East war had “commenced.”

AFP

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