The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Taraba

  • Troops recover human skull, arms from bandits’ hideout

    Troops recover human skull, arms from bandits’ hideout

    Troops of the newly established Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari of the 6 Brigade, Nigeria Army/Operation Whirl Stroke have discovered a human skull, arms and ammunition used by suspected kidnappers while on a two-day clearance operation across parts of Southern Taraba.

    The operation which took place between 19th and 20th of June, was aimed at identifying criminal hideouts in Wukari and Takum local government areas.

    According to the Spokesman of the Brigade, Captain Olubodunde Oni, in a statement, the troops also succeeded in recovering several ammunition after overpowering the bandits.

    The statement read: “On 20 June 2025, troops continued clearance operations through Chanchangi, Jam Kaanan, Hingir, Ukum, and Nbaume villages in Takum LGA without enemy contact.

    “However, at Mande Atsager, identified as the hideout of wanted bandit leader VERIOR JOHN GATA, troops encountered hostile fire. The bandits, overwhelmed by the troops’ superior firepower, fled into the surrounding forest, abandoning their camp.

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    “A search of the location revealed a building with four in-built detention cells, suspected to have been used to hold kidnapped victims pending ransom payments.

    “Troops also discovered a shrine containing a human skull, suggesting the use of occult practices in support of criminal activities. The entire area was cleared, and the camp was destroyed

    “Further operations extended to Ikayior village, known to be the home of another wanted criminal, AKIKI UTIV, alias “FULL FIRE.”

    “Troops uncovered and dismantled a bandit camp within the village. A search of the premises led to the recovery of 14 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition loaded in an AK-47 magazine. The camp was subsequently destroyed to prevent its future use by criminal elements.

  • Customs intercepts 36,935 Litres of petrol, 101 donkey skins in Adamawa, Taraba

    Customs intercepts 36,935 Litres of petrol, 101 donkey skins in Adamawa, Taraba

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a total of 36,935 litres of petrol allegedly meant for illegal exportation from Adamawa and Taraba states.

    The seized fuel was concealed in 1,219 jerry cans of various sizes and 24 drums with capacities ranging from 25 to 200 litres.

    Speaking during a press conference at the NCS Area Command headquarters in Yola, the Adamawa/Taraba Area Controller, Bashir Garba, revealed that the interception took place over the past four weeks. He stated that the petrol consignments were intended for smuggling into a neighbouring country.

    Garba disclosed that the total value of the seized petrol stood at ₦104,456,550.

    In addition to the petrol, customs officers also seized 101 pieces of raw donkey skins packed in seven sacks, also meant for illegal export. The area controller condemned the act, noting that the seizure equated to the killing of 101 donkeys.

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    “This is unfortunate because donkeys serve various purposes and must be protected to prevent their extinction,” he said.

    According to Garba, most of the petrol was seized at border exit points in Adamawa, while the remaining fuel and donkey skins were confiscated in Taraba State.

    He reaffirmed the commitment of the Customs Service to curbing smuggling and protecting Nigeria’s economic and environmental interests.

  • 450 Adamawa, Taraba women get livelihood support from ANI

    450 Adamawa, Taraba women get livelihood support from ANI

    Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation has reaffirmed commitment to women empowerment especially those domiciling in Gashaka Gumti national Park in Adamawa and Taraba states.

    The foundation’s leadership made the pledge while commissioning a new Women’s Centre north of the national park, which is located in Toungo local government council of Adamawa state.

    Speaking where 450 women received livelihood support, the Deputy Project Manager of the Foundation, David Peter, emphasised the importance of investing in women.

    “This programme was designed to empower women, promote community resilience, and provide alternative livelihoods to support the conservation of the park,” Peter said.

    Representing the Conservator-General of the National Park Service (NPS), Dr. Ibrahim Goni, Assistant Conservator-General Dr. Mohammed Kabir lauded ANI’s initiative, noting that it reflects a shared vision for economic transformation.

    Kabir pointed to previous successes, such as an October 2023 project where over 1,000 women in Taraba State’s Gashaka Local Government Area received tools, training, and business equipment including agro-processing machines, sewing machines, and hairdressing kits.

    He further highlighted broader achievements of the ANI-NPS partnership, including the vaccination of over 100,000 cattle and the recruitment and training of more than 70 local youths as park rangers efforts that simultaneously bolster conservation and strengthen community engagement.

    Adamawa Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, Mrs. Nedo Kafulto, praised ANI Foundation’s commitment to uplifting women, describing the Women’s Centre as a “transformative step” for both the local community and the wider state.

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    Conservator of Gashaka Gumti National Park, Amos D. Hamman, explained that ANI’s partnership with the park, which began in 2017, has focused on creating sustainable livelihoods around protected areas, ultimately fostering stronger appreciation and protection of natural resources.

    Senior Strategic Adviser of ANI Foundation, Dr. George Okeyoyin, stressed the crucial role women play in conservation efforts. “Effective conservation must respect and incorporate the contributions of women,” he said.

    Managing Director and CEO of ROSHAN Renewable Energy, Happy Amos, said ANI’s implementing partner, disclosed that the women’s savings and loan groups in Toungo have collectively saved over N30 million within a year.

    Rather than providing direct cash handouts, the initiative, according to her, offers low-interest loans tailored to participants’ needs, promoting sustainable economic empowerment.

    One of the recipients, Grace Emmanuel, told reporters that the support had enabled her to start a thriving business and support her family.

    Also, another participant, Florence Dauda, expressed pride in the community’s progress: “We used to envy the women at Gashaka, but today, we are proud to showcase our own products, thanks to ANI Foundation’s empowerment initiative.”

    ANI Foundation stressed that by empowering women, it not only fights poverty but also promotes peacebuilding and strengthens family structures  as empowered women are better positioned to uplift their families and communities.

  • Taraba teachers lament non-payment of six-month salaries, others

    Taraba teachers lament non-payment of six-month salaries, others

    Some primary school teachers in Taraba State have lamented the poor treatment  from the government, occasioned by the non-payment of five months’ salary arrears and lack of facilities in schools.

    According to them, the free education policy of the government is not yielding results and has worsened the state of schools and teachers’ welfare since the government has been unable to fulfill its promise.

    The government had in June 2023 declared a state of emergency in the education sector. While the policy has succeeded in reducing tuition fees in tertiary institutions and free school fees in secondary and primary schools, it has left tongues wagging about the sincerity of the government to follow the policy through, especially at the basic education level.

    Findings by The Nation showed that most primary schools in Jalingo, the state capital, have remained the same nearly two years after the policy was introduced.

    Also, while there is relative stability in the secondary education and tertiary sub-sectors, the same cannot be said of the basic education sub-sector.

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    A teacher, who chose not to be identified, from Central Primary School Wukari, southern Taraba senatorial zone (the governor’s hometown), said: “Teachers are leaving to other professions because of poor welfare. We are lagging behind. We cannot cater for our families any longer. We have become bankrupt and poor. We don’t save. That has affected our children. Some have been withdrawn from schools. They are not as regular to school as before. There is a lack of seriousness already.”

    According to her, the inability of the government to fulfill their promise of free uniforms, equipment and the likes have left the schools in limbo as the body that assists in carrying such responsibilities, no longer does it.

    She said: “In terms of infrastructure, the PTA used to supplement but the government has taken over but has failed in that respect. The facilities have remained bad and once you ask the parents to fix them, they would object and say it is ‘free education’.

    “In my school, the student uniforms are not being provided as promised. Parents, again, are waiting for the government to fulfill their promise for free uniforms. You see a child coming to school without a complete uniform or wearing a mufti.

    “Pupils come to school anytime they feel like. They no longer do their crafts. They say it is free education. The parents refuse to buy school materials for their children on the excuse that it is free education. The schools now are disorganised.”

    Another teacher from the same school who did not want her name mentioned for fear of victimisation, added: “For a teacher, before you go to work, you have to eat well. You have to transport yourself. The cost of transportation has become a problem.

  • Taraba, firm sign agreement to establish waste-to-power plant

    Taraba, firm sign agreement to establish waste-to-power plant

    The Taraba state government and SectorLead Limited have signed an agreement for the development of a 15MW Waste-to-Power Plant.

    They signed the agreement in Government House, Jalingo for the plant aimed at converting municipal solid waste into clean energy. 

    The 25-year renewable agreement was signed in the presence of the Programme Director, Strategy and Portfolio Delivery Office (SPDO), the State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, and the Commissioner for Waste Management and Resource, representing the State Government. 

    The project aims to tackle the state’s energy deficit and waste management challenges while delivering substantial economic and environmental benefits, according to the waste-to-energy firm.

    According to SectorLead, the project is a landmark development for Taraba State, marking the beginning of a new era in how the region approaches waste management and energy production. 

    “By turning waste into a valuable resource, the state is not only reducing its carbon footprints but also laying the foundation for economic prosperity and sustainable growth,” CEO of SectorLead Limited, Mr. Adedayo Mustapha, said shortly after the signing ceremony.

    The firm added that the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 7, 12 and 13 which captures: Affordable and Clean Energy, Responsible Consumption & Production, and Climate Action, respectively.

    Read Also: Taraba, Anambra get new CP

    When fully operational, the project will also aid the reduction of carbon emissions, promote sustainable industrialization, and serve as a model for innovative, eco-friendly infrastructure solutions in Nigeria.

    SectorLead added that this “transformative project” will provide a much-needed solution to the state’s waste management issues by “diverting waste from landfills and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment”. 

    “By generating 15MW of power from waste, the plant will strengthen Taraba State’s energy supply and boosting energy security. In addition to its environmental and energy benefits, the project will create jobs during both the construction and operational phases, stimulating economic growth and improving livelihoods. 

    “This Waste-to-Power Plant is not just a project; it’s a turning point for Taraba State. The environmental, economic, and energy benefits of this initiative are enormous. We are proud to partner with the Taraba State Government, whose vision for sustainable development is commendable. Together, we are paving the way for a greener, more prosperous future, aligned with global climate goals,” SectorLead’s CEO added.

  • Taraba, Anambra get new CP

    Taraba, Anambra get new CP

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the appointment of Chukwudi Chris Ariekpere from Abia State as the new Commissioner of Police for Taraba State. He takes over from CP Peter Oparah while Livingstein Ikioye Orutugu from Bayelsa State takes over the Anambra State Command from Obong Nnache Itam.

    A statement by the Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said the PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), said the new commissioners should settle down to their new posts and ensure there was no gap that might necessitate a break down of law and order.

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    He charged the new CPs to be committed to duty and ensure that Nigeria is freed from bandits and deviants.

    He said the commission will continue to monitor their conduct and ensure they succeed.

  • Customs seizes 199,495 litres of smuggled petrol in Adamawa, Taraba

    Customs seizes 199,495 litres of smuggled petrol in Adamawa, Taraba

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 199,495 litres of petrol being smuggled through international border communities in Adamawa and Taraba states.

    The fuel, concealed in various containers and vehicles, was reported en route to neighbouring countries when it was seized by Operation Whirlwind, the NCS’s special anti-smuggling unit.

    This latest crackdown adds to a series of seizures announced since the operation was launched in May last year.

    Speaking at a news briefing in Yola on Thursday, NCS Controller Bashir Adeniyi revealed that intelligence-driven operations across the Zone D axis led to the confiscation of fuel being illegally transported using various concealment methods.

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    The CGS gave the breakdown of the seizures as four fuel tankers carrying 97,000 litres of petrol; 1,363 Jerry cans of 25 litres each totalling 34,075 litres; and 311 drums of 220 litres each, totalling 68,420 litres.

    He explained: “Our vigilant officers operating in high-risk terrains identified as smuggling corridors intercepted these products through operations targeting sophisticated smuggling attempts.”

    The NCS controller general said the Operations Whirlwind is determined to stop economic saboteurs from diverting petrol meant for consumption within the country so that there would be reasonable stability in fuel production and consumption around the country.

  • Taraba customers urge NNPCL to extend CNG vending hours

    Taraba customers urge NNPCL to extend CNG vending hours

    Customers consisting of drivers and park operators have called on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to extend the hours of selling the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Taraba state.

    The stakeholders made the appeal as the state-owned oil and gas firm took its ongoing Stakeholders’ Sensitization Programme to the state, where drivers and park operators showed significant interest in usage of CNG.

    The exercise is part of NNPC’s efforts to increase awareness and core understanding of the oil and gas industry’s role in national development while schooling stakeholders on Efficient use of petroleum products. 

    Tagged: NNPC & You, the sensitisation campaign got to a flying start at the popular Taraba State Transport Company (TSTC), Park in  Jalingo with commercial vehicle  drivers and park operators commending NNPCL for the introduction of CNG as a viable alternative to petrol.  

    TSTC Park Manager, Abdullahi Musa while commending the company for the CNG initiative however appealed that the product be made available motorists in the state and called on NNPC Ltd. to extend  hours of operation of Its retail outlets to improve service delivery and eliminate likely queues. 

    At the Jalingo main motor park, Danjuma Hayatu, called on NNPC Ltd. to enforce existing regulations which prohibits the sale of petrol in kegs and jerry cans noting that though “nobody can buy fuel in cans inside NNPC Retail stations” yet we find people hawking fuel on the  streets of Jalingo. 

    At the Pullo Motor Park, Ali Salandy Wukari echoed the CNG request and appealed to the NNPC Ltd. to work out a hire purchase arrangement that would enable drivers and vehicle operators have access to the CNG powered vehicles under a pocket friendly approach.  

    The NNPC Ltd. Team later visited two more  major parks in Taraba namely; The People Choice and NARTO Park where stakeholders’ harped on the need for NNPC Ltd. to sustain the sensitization exercise by making the programme a periodic event and not a one-off activity. 

    Remarkably, the interest shown by drivers and park operators in CNG is a significant development, as CNG  is adjudged  a cleaner and more environmentally friendly fuel option.  

     The sensitization exercise, which was attended by drivers, commuters, and other stakeholders in the community, featured presentations on the safe and efficient use of petroleum products, as well as the importance of adhering to safety protocols at retail stations. 

     Just like the earlier exercise in Maiduguri, Borno state, some lucky stakeholders went home with gift items and freebies following raffle draws at various motor parks.  

  • Road, water constituency projects flagged off in Taraba 

    Road, water constituency projects flagged off in Taraba 

    Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has officially launched the construction of two separate 2km roads in Bali and Gassol towns, alongside the extension of a 33kVA power line from Sunkani to Garba Chede.

    The power line extension, upon completion, will connect Garba Chede and its neighboring communities to the national grid.

    The event, which took place in Garba Chede and Bali, is part of a constituency project of Hon. Jafaru Yakubu Chiroma, the Federal Representative for Bali/Gassol. 

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    The Governor was represented by the Deputy Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly.

    In addition to the road and power projects, the Governor’s representative also inaugurated a 15,000-liter overhead solar water tank in Bali and Mutum Biyu and presented certificates to 70 individuals who recently completed training in mining.

    Hon. Chiroma’s was lauded for the impactful initiatives, which was said to align with Governor Kefas’s Moving Taraba Forward agenda, which aims to bring democratic dividends directly to the people.

    In his remarks, Hon. Chiroma emphasized the critical importance of electricity as a fundamental right and a driver of economic development, essential for powering homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses.

    He said the road construction and water provision would positively transform the lives of his constituents.

    Notable attendees included the Deputy Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, representing Governor Kefas; Alhaji Abubakar Bawa, the PDP State Chairman; Hon. Jethro Yakubu, Majority Leader; and Hon. Emmanuel Bello, Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication. Also present were the Executive Chairman of Bali LGA, the Bali PDP Chairman, party members, stakeholders, and traditional rulers.

  • Army uncovers Boko Haram’s‘ sleeper cell’ in Taraba

    Army uncovers Boko Haram’s‘ sleeper cell’ in Taraba

    •10 terrorists arrested

    Troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/ Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested eight members of the Boko Haram terrorist group, who were planning to establish a ‘sleeper’ cell in the state.They also arrested two high-profile kidnap informants.

    In a statement, the spokesman of the brigade, Captain Olubodunde Oni, said the suspects came from various states to establish the cell of the terrorist group and cause havoc.

    The statement reads: “Acting swiftly on reliable intelligence, troops of the brigade on 29 September 2024, conducted a raid on the residence of one of the terrorists’ leaders, Tukura Abdul-Kareem, in Sunkani ward of Ardo-Kola Local Government Area.

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    “This operation resulted in the arrest of Abdul-Kareem and seven additional suspects who had travelled from various states to join the terror cell.

    “Investigation revealed that the eight Boko Haram terrorists were planning to establish a sleeper cell within Taraba State, with the intention of launching Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks on innocent individuals and critical facilities within the state. Abdul-Kareem also confessed to having joined the BHT with his brother, Adamu Abdul -Kareem, for a long period of time, who is still hibernating in the bush with the terrorists at an unknown area.”