The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Imo IGR hits ₦4b, debt profile reduced by 60%- Uzodimma 

    Imo IGR hits ₦4b, debt profile reduced by 60%- Uzodimma 

    Imo State Government revenue generation efforts have yielded significant results, with the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) skyrocketing by 500% – from ₦400 million in 2020 to nearly ₦4 billion in 2025.

    Governor Hope Uzodimma disclosed this to House of Assembly members during the State of the State address to present the stewardship of his administration over the past one and a half years of the second tenure. 

    Uzodimma said this IGR has provided the state with the fiscal capacity to invest in infrastructure and services. 

    “The impact is visible: our monthly Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has grown from an average of ₦400 Million in 2020 to nearly ₦4 billion in 2025, an increase of about 500%. This performance gives us the fiscal breathing room to invest in infrastructure and services, even as federal allocations continue to look up.

    “The state is also preparing for collaborative audits with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to further boost compliance and expand its revenue base,” he said.

    He disclosed that the digital reforms implemented by the state government have also created jobs, with nearly 1,000 Imo citizens benefiting from income opportunities through electronic ticketing and digitized market revenue collection.

    Additionally,  he said the state’s debt profile has been reduced by 60%, from ₦259 billion in 2020 to ₦99 billion in 2025, demonstrating prudent financial management.

    These developments are seen as a testament to the state’s commitment to building systems, eliminating waste, and ensuring benefits touch the lives of citizens.

    Uzodimma assured the people of the State of his administration’s continued commitment to progress and development. 

    Read Also: Uzodimma: Igbo should promote peaceful co-existence

    Speaking further, Uzodimma noted that his administration has constructed over 120 roads across the state, including the dualized Owerri-Orlu and Owerri-Okigwe roads. 

    He also mentioned the completion of the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre, the Assumpta Flyover, and the Concorde Hilton Hotel, which are set to be commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The Governor who hinted that most of the projects including the newly completed Owerri-Mbaise- Obowo- Umuahia road will be commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in August, also thanked Mr President for his support that made most of the projects realisable. 

    He appreciated the President for approving a new Federal University to be cited in Okigwe for Imo State, with a take off grant of N30billion.

    The Governor emphasized the importance of education and healthcare in his administration’s development agenda. 

    He stated that Imo students now consistently rank among the best in national exams, and that the state’s tertiary institutions have achieved 100 per cent accreditation.

    In healthcare, Uzodimma highlighted the rehabilitation of the Imo State University Teaching Hospital and the upgrade of the former FMC, Owerri to a teaching hospital.

    Uzodimma also noted his administration’s efforts in developing the digital economy, including the establishment of the Imo State Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government, the SkillUp Imo program, which  he said has trained over 40,000 youths in critical digital skills.

    He revealed that his administration has made significant strides in power sector with the revive of the 380MW Egbema Power Plant, abandoned for over 18 years, to boost electricity supply and support industrial development in the state including signing into law the Imo State Electricity Law, enabling the state to manage and activate electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure, including the Amaraku power project and Egbema Power Plant.

    Earlier, the Speaker Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Chike Olemgbe welcomed the Governor and his entourage to their Chambers and lauded him for his superlative performance in all areas, noting that the State under his leadership has been transformed in many area.

  • I am not borrowing N100b to fund projects, says Okpebholo

    I am not borrowing N100b to fund projects, says Okpebholo

    • PDP to invoke FOI law on Okpebholo’s borrow plan

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, is not obtaining any N100billion loan from any bank to fund his projects.

    Rather, Okpebholo said the facility approved by the state House of Assembly was a guarantor for contractors handling critical infrastructural projects.

    Okpebholo, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said the guarantee would enable contractors secure funding for project execution from First Bank Plc.

    He explained that his clarification was to correct any misconception suggesting that he had obtained an approval to borrow the money.

    According to him, “The arrangement is specifically a contractor loan facility designed to empower nominated contractors with direct access to capital for their projects, with the State’s guarantee underpinning the financial transaction.

    READ ALSO: PDP to INEC: Tell us our secretary!

    “This innovative approach is a deliberate move by Governor Okpebholo’s administration to accelerate the development of key infrastructure across Edo State. The funds, which will be disbursed by First Bank Plc directly to the contractors based on their project demands, have a tenure of 40 months.

    “The Edo State Government is fully committed to fulfilling its guarantee obligations by ensuring timely payments to the bank as agreed, thereby guaranteeing the seamless and expeditious execution of these vital projects.

    “This pragmatic and fiscally responsible model underscores Governor Okpebholo’s strong commitment to delivering on his mandate for infrastructural development, ensuring that contractors are well-resourced to complete projects efficiently, and ultimately improving the lives of Edo citizens.”

    But, the state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it would invoke the Freedom of Infromation (FoI) law to compel the governor to obtain details of the loan from the Assembly.

    It also would demand the list of the projects to be financed, names and profiles of the contractors and the loan agreement, including interest rate, tenure, repayment terms as well as disbursement schedule.

    The state Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, in a statement, said it would also deman records of proceedings and resolutions on the loan by the State Executive Council (SEC) and House of Assembly.

    He said: “We say no to this reckless and dangerous borrowing and want to remind Okpebholo and his handlers that Edo people will not idly watch them mortgage the future of the State and its people to fund and satisfy the insatiable appetite and opulent lifestyle of his godfathers and political cronies.

    “If this new loan is accessed, Governor Okpebholo would have effectively doubled the state’s domestic debt profile in less than eight months. It took 34 years by governors of Edo State to incur N112billion debt.

    “This is an alarming development that raises serious questions about the long-term fiscal sustainability of the state.’’

  • Enugu Rep dumps Labour Party for APC, backs Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

    Enugu Rep dumps Labour Party for APC, backs Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

    The lawmaker representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo Federal Constituency, Hon. Paul Nnamchi, has officially defected from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring his full support—and that of his constituents—for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Speaking during a ceremony to mark the defection, Nnamchi described the move as a significant political shift for Enugu State. His defection was earlier announced on the floor of the House of Representatives, where Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas read a letter conveying Nnamchi’s decision to dump the Labour Party.

    The lawmaker’s switch aligns with a broader trend of opposition members embracing the ruling party, signalling increasing confidence in the direction of Tinubu’s administration.

    Nnamchi’s defection is seen as a strategic endorsement of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said promises to bring development and unity to Enugu State.

    Shortly after his defection, Prof. Nnamchi, alongside stakeholders from Enugu East and Isi Uzo Local Government Areas, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, at his Asokoro residence in Abuja.

    Read Also: I left Labour Party for good of my people – Umeha

    Chief Nnaji commended Nnamchi’s bold step, describing it as a testament to his commitment to progress and national development. He also expressed optimism that APC’s presence in Enugu would continue to grow stronger with Nnamchi’s entry.

    He said, “We are still expecting more of our opposition members to join our great party.” 

    He highlighted Nnamchi’s defection as evidence of the party’s appeal and the impactful leadership of President Tinubu, which continues to attract prominent figures across the state.

    Chief Nnaji emphasized that the influx of defectors underscores the transformative work of the Renewed Hope administration. 

    He commended Prof. Nnamchi for aligning with a vision that prioritises innovation, infrastructure, and economic growth for Enugu and Nigeria at large.

    “This defection shows that the APC is doing something great and tremendous under President Tinubu’s leadership.”

  • Cross River PDP coalition urges senator to take over party

    Cross River PDP coalition urges senator to take over party

    PDP Support Group in Cross River State has  called  on Senator Sandy Onoh and other chieftains of Peoples Democratic Party to change the ‘incompetent and anti-people’ governance of APC in the state.

    At a news conference in Abuja, the coalition, which comprises grassroots mobilisation arms of PDP, including Presidential Support Group, Community Development Clusters, and Youth Fronts, declared its readiness to wrest power from APC in 2027.

    The group noted the need for a united and coordinated front by PDP leaders to rescue the state from socio-economic and developmental decay.

    Spokesperson, Mike Ekanem, said the group is disheartened at Governor Bassey Otu, whose actions have drawn public outrage.

    He condemned  the disruption of a scheduled Federal Government-backed Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) project opening in Calabar.

    READ ALSO: 2027 coalitions and collisions

    He said such tendencies expose the  government  as lacking in strategic vision, maturity in governance, and commitment to progress.

    It frowned at the economic performance of the state, noting that the state’s 34th ranking of 36 states in VAT remittances for Q1 2025 underscores Otu’s economic shortcomings.

    The group said Cross River generated a paltry N2.86 billion in VAT, compared to much smaller states like Ekiti, Ondo and 20 others and attributing it to failure to stimulate economic activity, attract investments, or create a conducive environment for businesses.

    It decried failure of the state to capitalize on its tourism and agricultural potential like previous administrations that leveraged on assets like the Obudu Cattle Ranch and utilization of the Calabar Carnival to stimulate the economy of the state.

    The coalition  frowned at the governor’s lack of performance across critical sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation. According to the group, no tangible democratic gains have reached the people of Cross River since Governor Otu took office, with many communities experiencing worsening hardship and government neglect.

    It however, expressed its resolve to target every seat the party currently holds in the Senate and House of Representatives.

     “Our mission is clear – to restore competence, responsibility, and people-centered leadership at all levels. We are not just targeting the governorship; every APC lawmaker from Cross River is on notice,” the spokesperson added.

    As part of its broader strategy, the group has called on Senator Sandy Onoh, known for his bold stance and proven capacity, to assume a central role in the liberation movement.

     “We believe Senator Sandy Onoh has what it takes to galvanize stakeholders and lead the battle to reclaim Cross River for the people. This is not a personal ambition; it is a generational duty,” the group emphasized.

    The PDP Support Group urged other prominent party stakeholders, including former governors, national assembly members, and youth leaders, to close ranks and prioritize the collective goal of ending APC misgovernance in the state. “This is a rescue mission. The time to act is now. Cross River deserves better.”

  • Mbah hosts Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, appoints him Enugu ambassador

    Mbah hosts Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, appoints him Enugu ambassador

    Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, on Tuesday hosted Super Eagles and Udinese FC goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, at the Government House in Enugu during a courtesy visit.

    Okoye, an indigene of Enugu State, expressed joy at returning to his roots and revealed plans to launch a charitable foundation and establish a football academy in the state.

    According to him, the initiatives are aimed at giving back to society, mentoring young talents, and nurturing future football stars.

    “I’m truly excited to be back home. Enugu is my origin, and I carry it with pride everywhere I go. I look forward to giving back by setting up a foundation for humanitarian causes and a football academy to mentor and train aspiring players,” Okoye said.

    In response, Governor Mbah commended Okoye for being a source of pride to Enugu State both nationally and internationally.

    He praised the goalkeeper’s dedication to youth development and announced that the state government would appoint him as an Ambassador of Enugu State.

    Read Also: Group applauds Mbah’s ‘impactful’ projects in Enugu

    Describing him as a role model for young people, particularly students in the state’s Smart Green Schools, Mbah said Okoye’s story would continue to inspire the next generation.

    “Maduka Okoye represents the best of Enugu talent on the national and global stage,” Governor Mbah said. “As a state, we are proud of his achievements and inspired by his desire to give back. We are appointing him as an Ambassador of Enugu State, and we believe he will be a great source of motivation for the next generation of talents in our Smart Green Schools and communities”, he stated.

    The governor further pledged to support Okoye’s football academy initiative, announcing that the state would provide land for the project. He also shared plans to revamp and upgrade the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium to meet FIFA standards, and invited him to participate in the next edition of the Enugu International Marathon, which will attract elite runners from around the world.

    Governor Mbah reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting youth development, talent and creativity, stating that the government would continue to create opportunities for young people in Enugu State to thrive nationally and globally.

    Mbah
  • Lawmaker seeks ECOWAS law to boost SMEs in sub-region

    Lawmaker seeks ECOWAS law to boost SMEs in sub-region

    House of Representatives member, Dr. Paschal Agbodike, has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to enact legislation aimed at promoting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the sub-region.

    Speaking during a plenary session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Monrovia, Liberia, Agbodike—who represents Ihiala Federal Constituency and serves as Nigeria’s delegate—stressed the need for member states to strengthen unity and economic resilience by patronising locally made goods.

    Read Also: Tinubu demands activation of ECOWAS Standby Force

    “There’s a need for the community to legislate on how to grow Small and Medium Enterprises in West African states, which are responsible for employing 80 per cent of the workforce in every nation,” he stated.

    Meanwhile, Agbodike congratulated Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, on his recent conferment of the traditional title “Oluatuegwu” by monarchs in Anambra North. He described the honour as a testament to the governor’s outstanding achievements across all sectors of the state’s economy.

  • Who Is targeting NAHCON?

    Who Is targeting NAHCON?

    • By Mubarak Oyewole 

    Recent allegations claiming that the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) spent over N1.64 billion on staff spouses during the 2025 Hajj exercise are not only false but appear to be part of a deliberate campaign to discredit the Commission and its leadership. 

    The claims—particularly those alleging that NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, stayed in a $1,000-per-night suite at Hilton Makkah Suites and brought along 12 family members—are completely unfounded and lack any credible evidence.

    To set the record straight, NAHCON’s policies do not permit the use of public funds for the travel or accommodation of staff spouses. What exists is a clearly defined welfare arrangement approved by the Commission’s Board, which allows staff—many of whom are on assignment in Saudi Arabia for over a month—to voluntarily sponsor their spouses entirely at their own expense and at a skeletal rate. The spouse package excludes major services such as accommodation in Makkah, meals, basic travel allowance (BTA), and inter-city transportation. These are borne fully by the sponsoring staff, often from their personal estacodes.

    This framework is not peculiar to NAHCON. Agencies such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and the Nigerian Foreign Service have similar arrangements that support staff welfare during extended foreign postings. NAHCON’s policy is consistent with global best practices and does not in any way constitute a misuse of public funds.

    To suggest that NAHCON staff cannot afford to sponsor their spouses is not only inaccurate but also condescending. Participation is voluntary, and in many cases, spouses contribute significantly to their own travel expenses. There is no ethical breach in this arrangement.

    The figures quoted in the circulating reports are grossly exaggerated and based on false assumptions. The reports wrongly assume uniform costs and spending patterns, while ignoring the actual, limited scope of the spouse package. NAHCON has made it clear that only a few services—mainly visas, flight tickets, and accommodation in Masha’ir and Madinah—are included. Staff are aware of these exclusions and plan accordingly.

    The sensational claim that the Chairman lodged in a $1,000-a-night suite and brought 12 family members is entirely fabricated. NAHCON has no financial records—no receipts, no approvals—substantiating this. On the contrary, the Chairman personally funded his spouse’s travel through the standard channels, and no family member served in any official NAHCON capacity. Even the visa for his spouse was processed independently of the Commission.

    Read Also: NAHCON begins inbound transportation, returns 1,310 pilgrims  

    Equally misleading is the allegation that spouses occupied accommodations meant for pilgrims or officials. NAHCON has strict housing protocols monitored by designated teams, and any deviation is immediately corrected. There is no evidence of abuse or unauthorized expenditure.

    Calls for investigation by bodies such as the EFCC are welcomed—NAHCON has nothing to hide. The Commission is routinely audited by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation and remains fully compliant with all financial regulations. But such investigations must be based on facts—not politically motivated falsehoods aimed at staining a legacy of integrity and efficiency.

    What is truly disheartening is that after organizing what has widely been regarded as the most successful Hajj operation in nearly 15 years—one marked by praise rather than complaints—some are bent on tarnishing NAHCON’s image. Is it because the Commission is no longer operating under the old order of business as usual? Is it because the Chairman cannot be compromised? Or is it because he is an Islamic scholar and respected Sheikh, and there are those who feel threatened by his moral authority and upright leadership?

    Whatever the reason, time will reveal the truth. NAHCON remains committed to transparency, accountability, and service to the Nigerian Muslim community. And those who seek to discredit it for selfish or political reasons will, in the end, be put to shame.

    Oyewale, Hajj 2025 pilgrim, writes from ilorin

  • Group applauds Mbah’s ‘impactful’ projects in Enugu

    Group applauds Mbah’s ‘impactful’ projects in Enugu

    The Enugu State chapter of the Guild of Public Affairs Analysts, has applauded Governor Peter Mbah’s commitment to delivering impactful projects across the state, dismissing distractions from critics.

    The group gave the commendation at a press conference in Enugu on Sunday, after a tour of completed and ongoing infrastructural projects of Enugu State Government

    The state chairman of the group, Dr. Ambrose Igboke, who addressed newsmen, applauded the quality of work at most of the projects, particularly, the Command and Control Center for security; Government Technical and Vocational Education Training College (GTC-TVET), International Conference Center (ICC), among others visited.

    He noted that Governor Mbah had demonstrated commitment to leave a lasting legacy in the infrastructural landscape of the state.

    Read Also: Enugu traders seek Mbah’s intervention over alleged relocation order

    The project tour aimed to gather first-hand, evidence-based information on the critical infrastructure projects undertaken by Governor Peter Ndubisi Mbah administration in Enugu State.

    GPAAN emphasized their role in critiquing government actions, commending successes, and offering recommendations rather than acting as an opposition party.

    Describing Governor Mbah as a man with great vision, Dr. Igboke noted that most of the projects visited so far, such as the New Enugu City, GTC-TVET, ICC, Transport Terminals Hotel Presidential, Command and Control Centre, among others, had put Enugu State on the map of states that have achieved a great milestone in security and infrastructure and already enhancing economic activities of the Southeast state.

    He noted the revitalization of critical moribund assets and a deliberate effort to build new infrastructure, expand cities, and integrate rural and urban areas.

    “The new Enugu City project was specifically lauded as a visionary initiative expected to expand the metropolis and create numerous job opportunities, thereby boosting the state’s GDP.

    “GPAAN also observed the enthusiasm, passion, and dedication of the people managing these establishments, noting their work ethic resembled technocrats rather than typical civil servants,” he said.

    Igboke used the opportunity to call on the ministries, departments to intensify efforts in publicising their numerous achievements to keep citizens informed.

    He highlighted that the group’s work involves holding the government accountable and explaining government policies to the people, while also providing feedback to the government.

  • Edo inaugurates Fund to reduce drugs’ prices

    Edo inaugurates Fund to reduce drugs’ prices

    • Ex-lawmaker tasks Okpebholo on Electricity Act

    The Edo State government has inaugurated the Primary Healthcare Drug Revolving Fund Committee (DRF) to make drugs and other healthcare essentials available and affordable to the people.

     Executive Secretary, Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDPHDA) Dr. Osoikhia Coulson, said the governor remained committed to strengthening primary healthcare.

    He urged the committee to  put measures in place to ensure successful implementation and sustainability of the DRF programme.

     Explaining the DRF initiative, Director, Essential Drugs and Logistics, Eruaga Valentine, a pharmacist, said the initiative would eliminate frequent stockouts at the state’s facilities through a revolving drug supply system as well as reduced out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

     “It is very important to have essential medicines and commodities at the primary healthcare facilities. The committee will play a key role in shaping the framework of the programme, ensuring compliance, and conducting regular reviews,’’ he added.

    Also, a former member, House of Representatives, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, has urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to use provisions of the Electricity Act to put structure in place that would make Edo enviable in the power industry.

    READ ALSO: States seek $500m World Bank’s facility to tackle poverty

    Ogbeide-Ihama said opportunities exist in Edo for localised power solutions, mini-grids, solar parks and distribution upgrades that could bring reliable energy to communities and small businesses.

     Ogbeide-Ihama, who is Executive Director, Corporate Services of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), spoke at the Eighth late Geoffrey O. Aiwerioba Public Lecture Series yesterday in Benin City organised by the Benin Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). In his paper entitled, ‘Bridging the infrastructure gap: Strategies for sustainable development in Edo State’.

    He said the Electricity Act made it possible for Edo to define its electricity growth trajectory by creating a bankable and liquid market.

      Ogbeide-Ihama said: “Infrastructure is everything for example power, health, education all need infrastructure so the people of Edo State should take ownership and play a role in the way their affairs are run. The government of the day is showing key examples like the first fly over.

    “I urge the governor to continue the way he has started so that at the end of his tenure, we will be able to point to all the infrastructure that would have come to all sectors. NSE Benin Branch must rise to the occasion to partner with the government to ensure that this infrastructure deficit is closed out and infrastructure enhancement is brought up to boost the economy, GDP and the life of Edo people,

     “Government should step up to try as much as possible to ensure that Edo State is one of the leading states to handle power within the state from management to generation, to distribution and to make sure that there is light across the length and breadth of Edo.”

     National President of the NSE, Aina Oguntala, who was represented by Ademola Olorunfemi, said qualified engineers are in government agencies and departments.

     Also, Osoikhia noted that the governor’s key priority was to ensure availability of essential medicines and consumables at all primary healthcare facilities at an affordable cost to make life easier for Edo people.

  • Benue: National Youth forum calls for urgent forest guards recruitment

    Benue: National Youth forum calls for urgent forest guards recruitment

    The National Youth Stakeholders Forum (NYSF) has called on the federal government to urgently recruit forest guards as part of broader efforts to tackle the persistent security crisis in Benue State.

    In a statement on Thursday, the forum’s national leader, Mr. Oladotun Hassan, urged President Bola Tinubu to initiate far-reaching security reforms and respond decisively to the recent wave of killings in the state.

    “It is time to overhaul Nigeria’s security architecture and embark on the recruitment of forest guards,” Hassan said. “This must include increased funding for intelligence operations, modernization of military equipment, and improved coordination among security agencies.”

    He also stressed the need to prioritise the welfare of security personnel, noting that neglecting their well-being could lead to disillusionment and vulnerability to corruption or collusion with criminal elements.

    “The government must have a plan for scholarship for their children, free health care and commensurate salaries and packages compared to their fellow colleagues in the US Army.

    “Ensure accountability: To those responsible for the Benue massacre, including any military personnel or public officials found complicit, must be brought to justice swiftly. There can be no sacred cows,” he said.

    According to him, the government must engage in dialogue and reconciliation: The President must initiate measures to address the root causes of violence in Benue and other affected areas in the country.

    Hassan added that president Tinubu should also tackle and resolve the herder-farmer conflicts, land disputes, and promoting inter-community dialogue, through the establishment of the Nigeria Inter-Ethnic Nationalities Peace Commission. 

    The NYSF also advised the government to strengthen regional cooperation as the country could not tackle terrorism and insurgency alone. 

    He said that it was essential for the government to enhance collaboration with neighbouring countries to curtail the flow of arms, terrorists and flow of funds across borders.

    “We are aghast to raise our concerns over the unmitigated rising spate of insecurity and terrorism incidents especially in the Yelewata Community areas of Benue State, wherein over 200 innocent souls of both young and old were gruesomely massacred.

    “We request President Tinubu to step up his decisive action by critically evaluating the crises in Benue and other affected areas in Nigeria.

    “We call on the Federal Government to immediately commence recruitment of able body Youths within the affected communities into the forest guards.

    Read Also: Benue attackers not Nigerians, we ‘ll go after them – COAS

    “The government should ensure to implement proposals for the onward establishment of a National Joint Regional Security Task Force Network Agency (NJRSTFNA) that will assist and work closely with the conventional security agencies in the collective fight against terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria,” Hassan said.

    It was reported that President Tinubu has told the Benue and Nasarawa state governments to constitute a peace committee towards ending the ongoing killings in Benue and its environs.

    The president said this at a town hall meeting with Benue stakeholders as part of his efforts to address the incessant attacks, killings, and displacements of communities in the state.

    Recall that more than 200 people were killed, scores injured and houses and properties destroyed in the June 13 attack on Yelwata.