Three newly graduated Nigerian Army personnel have reportedly been abducted by suspected bandits in Zamfara State while travelling to Kebbi State after completing their military training in Kaduna.
The soldiers were said to have finished their passing-out exercise at the 26 Nigerian Army formation in Kaduna on July 2, 2026, and were expected to be transported to Zuru, Kebbi State. However, according to a report by SaharaReporters, they were allegedly dropped off in Gusau, Zamfara State, and instructed to continue the remaining part of their journey on their own the following day.
Sources familiar with the incident said the soldiers boarded a commercial vehicle from a motor park in Gusau alongside other passengers heading to Kebbi. While passing through the Anka axis of Zamfara State, the vehicle was reportedly ambushed by heavily armed bandits, who abducted the occupants, including the three soldiers and the driver.
The kidnappers were initially said to have demanded a ransom of N50 million before later reducing the demand to N5 million for each captive.
Families of the abducted soldiers alleged that they promptly informed the Nigerian Army about the incident but claimed that more than 13 days after the abduction, no rescue operation or official response had been communicated to them.
A security analyst also confirmed the incident in a video shared on social media, saying he had spoken directly with the victims’ families. According to him, six soldiers were travelling after the passing-out parade, but three managed to escape during the attack. However, only one of the escapees has reportedly been accounted for, while the whereabouts of the other two remain unknown.
The analyst described the incident as disturbing, noting that the soldiers had only recently completed their training and were travelling home before reporting for active duty. He also said the families were financially incapable of raising the ransom demanded by the kidnappers.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army had not publicly commented on the incident or the allegations made by the families.
Trainees Showcase Skills in Painting, Decoration and Finishes, Welding and Fabrication, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance
Morene Ventures Limited has successfully concluded its IDEAS-TVET closing ceremony and graduation programme, celebrating the achievements of 100 skilled artisans trained in Painting, Decoration and Finishes, Welding and Fabrication, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance.
The ceremony, which marked the completion of a six-month intensive skills development programme, also featured the presentation of participation certificates while successful trainees await the issuance of their National Skills Qualification (NSQ) Level 2 Certificates.
The event brought together government representatives, industry experts, training facilitators, assessors, community stakeholders, and families to celebrate the transformation of participants into skilled professionals ready to contribute to economic growth and national development.
A major highlight of the graduation ceremony was the exhibition and practical demonstration sessions, where trainees displayed the knowledge and skills they acquired throughout the six-month training period.
Participants showcased their expertise through completed projects and live demonstrations in Painting, Decoration and Finishes, Welding and Fabrication, and Electrical Installation and Maintenance. The exhibitions provided guests with an opportunity to witness firsthand the creativity, technical competence, and confidence developed by the trainees during the programme.
The practical sessions reinforced the importance of technical education, demonstrating that skills acquisition goes beyond classroom learning and must be applied through real-world practice.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of gifts and awards to outstanding performing trainees who distinguished themselves through exceptional practical competence, commitment, and dedication during the training programme.
The recipients of the Best Artisan Trainee Awards were:
Best Artisan Trainee in Electrical Installation and Maintenance: Mr. Kolade Ojo Oluwafemi
Best Artisan Trainee in Welding and Fabrication: Miss Aishatu Abubakar Atiku
Best Artisan Trainee in Painting, Decoration and Finishes: Mr. Suleiman Shittu
The award presentation recognised excellence across the three trade areas and celebrated trainees who consistently demonstrated outstanding technical ability, discipline, and professionalism throughout the programme. The presentation of gifts was one of the memorable moments of the ceremony, drawing applause from fellow trainees, facilitators, invited guests, and family members.
In his opening remarks, Bldr. Gyok Mathew Gyang (MNIOB, QAA, RPL), Director of Morene Ventures Limited, reflected on the transformation that skills training brings to individuals and communities.
He noted that many people who started their careers were once identified simply as labourers, but programmes such as IDEAS-TVET are changing that narrative by equipping individuals with professional skills and recognised qualifications.
He encouraged the graduates to embrace their new identity as skilled professionals and make meaningful use of the knowledge they have acquired.
Delivering a goodwill message, Bldr. Imil Iliya Asuka, Deputy Director, Directorate of Physical Facilities, University of Jos, and Director of Works, College of Education, Gindiri, encouraged the graduands to remain committed to their chosen careers.
He advised them to maintain discipline, consistency, and determination, whether they choose employment, entrepreneurship, or partnerships with others.
He reminded them that skills must be developed through continuous practice and encouraged them to always strive for excellence in whatever they do.
Mr. Rwang Yohanna Dame, Principal of Government Technical College Bukuru (BUTECHS), congratulated the graduands and described the certificates as symbols of commitment, learning, and achievement.
He emphasised that the true value of certification lies in the knowledge, practical skills, and character developed throughout the training.
He encouraged the graduates to continue learning and practising their skills, noting that employers today seek individuals who combine qualifications with competence and professionalism.
“Your certificate represents what you have learned, but your ability to apply that knowledge is what will create opportunities for you,” he advised.
Representing Bldr. Lawrence Manggei (FNIOB, EQA), Managing Director of Potter7 Skill Training Center, Abuja, Engr. Rwang Moses urged the graduands to continue practising their skills and remain committed to improvement.
He described practice as the foundation of excellence and encouraged them not to allow their training to go unused.
He challenged the graduates to pursue opportunities, overcome challenges, and continue developing themselves as they begin their professional journeys.
Speaking on behalf of the team of assessors, Bldr. Azi Emmanuel congratulated the graduands and appreciated everyone who contributed to the success of the programme.
He praised the dedication of the organisers, facilitators, and assessors who worked together to develop skilled manpower through the initiative.
He encouraged the graduates to apply their skills with integrity and professionalism while contributing positively to their communities.
Bldr. Adedeji Adeleye Paul (FNIOB, EQA) reminded the graduands that graduation marks the beginning of continuous learning rather than the end of their development.
He encouraged them not to wait passively for opportunities but to invest in themselves, seek knowledge, and continue improving their abilities.
He stressed the importance of networking, mentorship, and collaboration, advising the graduates to maintain relationships developed during the training.
According to him, certificates are valuable, but competence remains the most important factor in building successful careers.
“Employers are interested in what you can do, not only what you possess on paper,” he stated.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. Kyari Haruna, Assistant Director, highlighted the importance of technical and vocational education in national development.
He explained that technical education provides young people with practical skills for employment, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.
He encouraged more Nigerians to embrace skills training, noting that skilled professionals are increasingly valuable in today’s economy.
He also encouraged young women to confidently pursue technical careers, emphasising that excellence in skilled professions is achievable regardless of gender.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Plateau State Ministry of Education, Hajiya Sadiya Ibrahim, Bldr. Ruth Ashen, Lecturer at Plateau State University, Bokkos, urged the graduands to remain humble and committed to lifelong learning.
She encouraged them to recognise areas where they need improvement and seek guidance from mentors, colleagues, and professionals.
She reminded them that professional growth comes through collaboration, discipline, and continuous development.
Speaking on behalf of the female participants, Miss Nissi Makama, a trainee in Painting and Decoration, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, Morene Ventures Limited, facilitators, assessors, and all partners who made the programme possible.
She acknowledged that the journey required dedication and hard work but noted that participants emerged with confidence and practical skills ready to be applied.
She expressed hope that the training would enable participants to create opportunities, support their communities, and contribute positively to society.
Also speaking on behalf of the male participants, Mr. Felix Ribetnan reflected on the journey that began on 12th January, noting that the programme provided participants with practical skills that will empower their future. He praised the resilience of trainees who remained committed throughout the programme and appreciated the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Education, the IDEAS-TVET team, Morene Ventures Limited, the Quality Assurance team, facilitators, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the initiative.
In his closing remarks, Bldr. Gyok Matthew Gyang, Director of Morene Ventures Limited, encouraged the graduates to maximise the opportunity provided through the programme.
He reminded them that the purpose of the training was not only to obtain certificates but to gain practical skills that promote self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.
He also clarified that while participation certificates were presented during the ceremony, the NSQ certification process follows established procedures, and successful candidates will receive their official NSQ Level 2 certificates upon completion of the required processes.
He appreciated the Federal Government for supporting technical and vocational education and contributing to the development of a skilled workforce.
As the 100 graduates leave the training centre, they do so with more than certificates they carry practical skills, confidence, and the responsibility to use their knowledge to create opportunities and contribute to the growth of their communities and the nation.
The IDEAS-TVET graduation ceremony stands as a reminder that investing in skills development is investing in the future.
The Plateau State Internal Revenue Service (PSIRS) has announced the availability of more than 5,000 unclaimed driver’s licences received from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), urging residents to collect their documents without delay.
In a public announcement, the agency said the backlog consists of outstanding driver’s licences belonging to Plateau residents who have been waiting for their licences.
PSIRS directed all affected residents to visit its headquarters located at No. 6 Bank Road, Jos, to collect their licences during official working hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.
The agency advised applicants to come along with valid means of identification and any other relevant documents to ensure a smooth verification and collection process.
The announcement was signed by Wulashik Lucius Dafaan, Head of the Corporate Communications Department, Plateau State Internal Revenue Service.
Music lovers have a new reason to celebrate as legendary Jos and Plateau State artiste, Adu Deme, releases his latest single, Sarauniyata.
The Afrobeats-inspired track is a heartfelt celebration of love, commitment and togetherness, delivered through his signature soulful vocals and rich cultural sound.
Perfect for weddings, anniversaries and other special occasions, Sarauniyata showcases Adu Deme’s enduring artistry and passion for meaningful music.
Fans and new listeners alike are encouraged to stream, download and share the song with family and friends.
Experience the powerful message of love and unity that makes Sarauniyata a must-have on every playlist.
The Federal Government has suspended the proposed increase in registration fees for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE), pending wider consultations with key stakeholders.
The Federal Ministry of Education announced the decision on Monday, stating that it had withdrawn its June 18, 2026, circular conveying the proposed fee adjustment to allow for a comprehensive review before any final decision is made.
According to the ministry, the suspension followed concerns and constructive feedback from members of the public, underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusive, transparent and evidence-based policymaking.
The ministry explained that the proposed fee review was initially prompted by prevailing economic realities and the increasing cost of conducting credible national examinations across the country.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, directed that the proposal be placed on hold to ensure that any policy affecting millions of Nigerian students and their families is carefully considered and reflects the collective interest of the nation.
As part of the review process, the ministry said it would engage extensively with examination bodies, state ministries of education, school proprietors and administrators, parents’ associations, organised labour, education stakeholders and other critical partners.
The consultations are expected to ensure that any future decision on examination registration fees is fair, transparent, sustainable and responsive to current economic conditions while protecting access to education.
The ministry clarified that the proposed increase will not take effect until the consultation process is completed and a final decision is reached.
Reaffirming its commitment to the education sector, the ministry stated that the welfare of students, equitable access to quality education and responsible policymaking remain central to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
It also appreciated Nigerians for their understanding, patience and continued support, assuring the public that updates would be provided throughout the consultation process.
The statement was signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Folasade Boriowo.
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers ambushed a funeral convoy along the Ochadamu-Ejule Road in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting nine mourners, including two officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), while transporting the remains of a senior FRSC officer for burial.
The incident occurred around 6 p.m. on Thursday as the convoy was conveying the body of the late Deputy Corps Commander of the FRSC, Augustine Ikwue, from Osun State to his hometown of Otukpo in Benue State for burial.
According to reports, the deceased officer had died in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, after a brief illness.
The kidnappers were initially reported to have taken the corpse along with the mourners. However, the body was later found abandoned near Ejule community and recovered by security personnel before being released to the family for burial.
Confirming the incident, the Kogi State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Lawal Fagge, said nine people were abducted during the attack, including two FRSC personnel.
Fagge disclosed that the kidnappers later contacted the deceased officer’s wife using his mobile phone and demanded a ransom of N450 million for the release of those still in captivity.
“We recovered the corpse of the officer in Ejule community on Friday after frantic searching and handed it over to the family. He was buried on Saturday in his hometown of Otukpo in Benue State.
“The abductors used the cellphone of the deceased officer to call his wife, demanding a huge sum of money for those in their captivity to regain their freedom,” he said.
Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army, the police, local hunters and vigilante groups, have since launched coordinated operations in the area to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the growing insecurity on the nation’s highways and describing the attack on a funeral procession as a disturbing indication of the worsening security situation.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has denied reports alleging that the Minister of Education was responsible for delaying the resumption of newly recruited staff, insisting that no approval has been granted for fresh recruitment into the agency.
In a press statement issued by Femi Akinfala, the agency described the allegations as false and misleading, stating that NELFUND is currently overstaffed, with many employees lacking office space and clearly defined responsibilities.
According to the statement, the Chairman of NELFUND, Mr. Jim Ovia, had earlier directed a halt to all recruitment processes during a board meeting in Lagos because no formal approval had been granted for new appointments.
The statement further alleged that despite objections raised by three executive directors, the Managing Director proceeded with recruitment outside the board’s approval process.
It added that the Chairman instructed that individuals recruited without authorization should not be placed on the agency’s payroll and also ordered a comprehensive review of staff ranks.
Akinfala also claimed that about 80 percent of NELFUND’s current workforce is considered redundant, a situation he said management unanimously acknowledged requires urgent attention.
He noted that the Board Secretary and the Executive Director of Operations could verify the directives issued during the Lagos meeting regarding the recruitment freeze.
The statement concluded that the intervention of the Minister of Education had helped prevent what it described as a further breakdown in the agency’s organizational structure.
The Northern Governors’ Forum (NGF), in collaboration with the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, has launched the Northern Nigeria Security Trust Fund (NNSTF) to strengthen the fight against insecurity across the 19 northern states, with each state committing ₦1 billion monthly to finance the initiative.
The decision was reached during a joint meeting at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna, where a 21-member Board of Trustees was inaugurated to oversee the Fund aimed at improving intelligence gathering, enhancing security coordination, and mobilising sustainable resources to combat banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security threats.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, joined his counterparts at the meeting, reaffirming Plateau’s commitment to regional peacebuilding and collaborative security efforts. Former Plateau South Senator, Napoleon Bali, was appointed as a member of the Board of Trustees, further positioning the state as a key contributor to regional security initiatives.
Speaking during the inauguration, NGF Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the Trust Fund as a major milestone in addressing Northern Nigeria’s security challenges through coordinated regional action and sustainable financing.
The governors also reiterated their support for the establishment of state police and pledged to address the root causes of insecurity through investments in education, agriculture, youth empowerment, and economic development, while calling for stronger collaboration with traditional institutions, security agencies, and community leaders to restore lasting peace across the region.
The Langtang North Local Government Council has dismissed claims linking the remand of Mr. Nansel Selnan Lar to the Executive Chairman of the Council, Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem, describing such allegations as inaccurate and misleading.
In a press statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Kum Precious, the Council said Hon. Tyem only exercised his constitutional right by submitting a petition to the Nigeria Police Force on matters he considered worthy of investigation.
The Council clarified that the petition has not been filed before any court of competent jurisdiction, stressing that the ongoing legal proceedings involving Mr. Lar are being handled independently by the Nigeria Police Force and the courts in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws.
It maintained that decisions concerning investigation, arraignment, remand and prosecution fall solely within the statutory responsibilities of law enforcement agencies and the judiciary, insisting that neither the Executive Chairman nor the Council directed or secured Mr. Lar’s remand.
Responding to claims that Mr. Lar was being persecuted for demanding accountability, the Council said it has consistently responded to his requests for information through appropriate administrative channels and in line with due process. It noted that records of the Council show his requests were acknowledged and addressed lawfully.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible governance, while reiterating its respect for the independence of the Nigeria Police Force and the judiciary.
It also urged members of the public and stakeholders to avoid spreading misinformation and allow the relevant institutions to perform their constitutional duties without interference.
The Council assured residents that the administration of Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem remains focused on delivering quality governance, improving infrastructure, promoting peace and advancing development across Langtang North Local Government Area.
The Nigerian Army has graduated more than 3,000 newly trained recruits from the Nigerian Army Training Depot in Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State, to reinforce its manpower and strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism and internal security operations across the country.
The graduation comes just 12 days after over 8,000 soldiers completed training at the Nigerian Army Depot in Osogbo, Osun State, as part of the Army’s sustained drive to expand its operational capacity.
Addressing the recruits during the passing-out parade on Wednesday, the Chief of Army Staff, , urged them to uphold discipline, professionalism and loyalty as they begin active military service.
In a statement issued by Army spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the Army Chief described the graduation as a significant boost to the Army’s manpower, aligning with the Federal Government’s efforts to address security challenges and strengthen national defence.
Shaibu noted that the graduation follows similar exercises at the Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria and the newly established training depot in Osogbo, reflecting the Army’s deliberate expansion of its force generation capability.
He said the recruits underwent intensive training to prepare them for modern warfare and Nigeria’s evolving security environment, urging them to remain disciplined, vigilant and committed to defending the Constitution and constituted authority.
“The nation has made substantial investments in your training and expects you to justify that confidence through courage, professionalism and selfless service,” he told the new soldiers.
The Army Chief also described the establishment of the Amasiri-Edda training depot as a strategic step towards expanding the Army’s training infrastructure and producing the personnel needed to tackle emerging security threats. He commended the commandant, instructors and support staff for producing combat-ready soldiers.
Also speaking at the event, praised the Nigerian Army for establishing the training depot in Ebonyi State, saying it has enhanced security, boosted economic activities and created opportunities for residents and neighbouring communities.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to promote peace, stability and development.
