Nigeria News (Standard)
DSS, Army Thwart Kidnap Plot Targeting WAEC Students in Enugu, Anambra and Imo States
Security agencies recover arms, NYSC uniforms and arrest suspects linked to planned attacks on examination centres
Security agencies recover arms, NYSC uniforms and arrest suspects linked to planned attacks on examination centres
Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and soldiers from the Nigerian Army have foiled a coordinated attempt to kidnap students writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in parts of Enugu, Anambra and Imo states. The operation took place on Wednesday, following credible intelligence about the planned abductions by members of the proscribed Eastern Security Network (ESN).
According to a statement released by the DSS on Thursday, security agents raided an ESN armoury located in the Agbani axis of Enugu State. The statement said intelligence revealed that ESN members intended to disguise themselves in National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) uniforms while launching attacks on selected schools during the WASSCE period. During the raid, security operatives recovered eight AK-47 rifles, 12 AK-47 magazines, 323 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a smoke grenade launcher, two teargas canisters, as well as NYSC clothing items including trousers, T-shirts and lanyards.
The DSS noted that the motive behind the planned attack was to create panic and give an impression that bandits had infiltrated the South-East region. The targeted schools were identified across multiple locations in Enugu, Anambra and Imo states. Security operatives also confirmed that several suspects were arrested during the operation.
Further operations continued on Tuesday in the Garki area of Enugu State where another ESN armoury was raided. This led to additional recoveries including a rocket launcher, two rocket-propelled grenade warheads, three RPG chargers and three AK-47 rifles. Other items seized include six AK-47 magazines, two handheld grenades, a teargas gun with canisters, a baton and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Security agencies have increased surveillance around examination centres in affected states as at Thursday. The DSS stated it will continue working with other security outfits to ensure safety for students sitting for national examinations across Nigeria’s South-East zone. No casualties were reported from these operations as at press time.
Source: https://punchng.com/dss-military-foil-kidnap-of-waec-students-in-south-east-recover-weapons/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ibadan Analyst Warns Unregulated Security Outfits May Undermine National Stability
Angel Folorunso urges compliance with Private Guard Companies Act as Iru Ekun network proposal raises concerns
Angel Folorunso urges compliance with Private Guard Companies Act as Iru Ekun network proposal raises concerns
A political analyst and former lecturer, Angel Folorunso, has cautioned that the unchecked spread of unregulated private security outfits in Nigeria could pose new security risks and threaten national stability. Folorunso made this warning on Tuesday in Ibadan, Oyo State, through a statement addressing recent calls for alternative security arrangements amid rising insecurity.
The analyst specifically referenced the proposed Iru Ekun security network championed by Yoruba Nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo (popularly known as Sunday Igboho), stressing that any group operating outside established legal frameworks might inadvertently create parallel security structures. According to Folorunso, although the worsening state of insecurity across the country has led to increased public demand for community-based or private security solutions, such initiatives must strictly adhere to existing legislation.
Folorunso explained that Nigeria’s private security industry is mainly regulated by the Private Guard Companies Act of 1986. This law stipulates that all private security firms must be licensed, wholly Nigerian-owned, and supervised by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). He noted that any deviation from these provisions could worsen the current situation by creating confusion about legitimate authority and accountability.
He further advised stakeholders considering new security organisations to consult relevant laws before launching operations. “We cannot afford a proliferation of groups acting without oversight. It will only add to our existing challenges,” he said in his statement. Folorunso emphasised that government agencies like NSCDC have both supervisory and enforcement roles under the law.
As debates continue over how best to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity, analysts like Folorunso maintain that strict regulation and adherence to legal guidelines remain crucial. There was no immediate response from proponents of the Iru Ekun network at press time.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kano State Implements 90% of Health Blueprint in Three Years, Says Commissioner
Health ministry reports major progress on blueprint targets; stakeholders urge full implementation for improved healthcare delivery
Health ministry reports major progress on blueprint targets; stakeholders urge full implementation for improved healthcare delivery
Kano State government has achieved 90 percent implementation of its health sector blueprint within three years, according to the Commissioner for Health. The announcement was made in Kano on Thursday, highlighting significant progress in ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare services across the North-West state.
According to the commissioner, the state government rolled out the health blueprint as a strategic plan to improve access and quality of healthcare for Kano residents. Over the past three years, targeted interventions have been executed under the plan, including rehabilitation of primary health centres, recruitment of additional personnel, and procurement of essential medical equipment.
The health sector blueprint was introduced to address longstanding challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and human resources in public hospitals. With Kano being one of Nigeria’s most populous states, officials say improved implementation is vital to reducing disease burden and achieving better health outcomes for millions of residents.
The commissioner stated that most objectives set out in the document have now been met or are near completion. “As at today, we can confidently say that about 90 percent of what we mapped out under this blueprint has been achieved,” he said. He noted that the remaining targets will be prioritised before the end of the current administration’s tenure. Stakeholders in Kano’s health sector commended government’s commitment but urged sustained investment to consolidate recent gains.
With these achievements, Kano State hopes to further enhance access to quality healthcare services and serve as a model for other states seeking effective health system reforms. The commissioner assured residents that efforts will continue until full implementation is realised.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Launches New HIV Strategy, Moves to Cut Donor Dependence
Health ministry unveils plan in Abuja, targets increased domestic funding as international support for HIV response declines
Health ministry unveils plan in Abuja, targets increased domestic funding as international support for HIV response declines
The federal government on Thursday unveiled a new national HIV response plan in Abuja, aiming to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on international donors and prioritise increased domestic financing for HIV prevention and treatment programmes. The announcement comes as major external partners gradually scale back funding commitments amid shifting global health priorities.
At the formal launch event, health officials highlighted the urgent need for more sustainable local investment in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The new strategy seeks to mobilise funds from federal and state governments, as well as private sector stakeholders, to address gaps left by declining donor support. According to the health ministry, Nigeria remains one of the countries with the highest HIV burden globally, making continued investment critical for public health.
Officials explained that over the past two decades, Nigeria’s HIV response has depended heavily on international donors such as PEPFAR and the Global Fund. However, with foreign assistance now on a downward trend, there is growing concern about the long-term sustainability of treatment and prevention services for millions of Nigerians living with or at risk of HIV.
Speaking at the event, senior health ministry representatives said government is determined to bridge funding gaps by increasing budgetary allocations and encouraging partnerships with private organisations. They emphasised that enhanced domestic commitment will ensure uninterrupted access to antiretroviral drugs and other essential services. However, some public health advocates have called for transparent monitoring of how new funds are allocated and used at all levels.
The health ministry stated it will work closely with state governments and development partners to implement the new plan nationwide. Experts say success will depend on political will and accountability measures to ensure funds reach frontline services. The government has assured that it will regularly review progress towards national HIV reduction targets under this new approach.
Ibadan Analyst Warns Unregulated Security Outfits May Undermine National Stability
Kano State Implements 90% of Health Blueprint in Three Years, Says Commissioner
Federal Government Launches New HIV Strategy, Moves to Cut Donor Dependence
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