Nigeria News (Standard)
Fresh Security Concerns in Sokoto as Bandits Allegedly Conduct Weapons Training
Local residents raise alarm over increased bandit activities while state authorities promise intensified security patrols
Local residents raise alarm over increased bandit activities while state authorities promise intensified security patrols
There are renewed fears in Sokoto State following reports that suspected bandits have been allegedly engaging in weapons training within parts of the state. The development, which surfaced on Sunday, 21 June 2026, has heightened anxiety among residents and prompted calls for urgent government intervention.
According to local accounts, groups believed to be linked with armed banditry were reportedly sighted conducting what appeared to be organised drills and training sessions with firearms. While the exact locations within Sokoto remain unclear, the activities have raised apprehension among communities already facing insecurity challenges.
The latest concerns come against the backdrop of persistent attacks and kidnappings attributed to criminal gangs operating in North-West Nigeria. Many locals say the alleged training camps could signal plans for further violence or expanded operations by these groups, underscoring the urgent need for improved security presence in affected areas.
State officials have acknowledged the rising tension and assured residents that security agencies are stepping up patrols and surveillance. A senior government official, who did not wish to be named as at press time, noted that “all relevant agencies have been directed to intensify efforts to identify and dismantle any illegal training grounds.” The official added that collaboration with local vigilante groups would continue as part of a broader strategy to restore peace.
Security analysts warn that unchecked proliferation of weapons and tactical skills among bandit groups poses significant risk not only for Sokoto but also neighbouring states. They advise a coordinated response involving intelligence gathering, community engagement, and sustained law enforcement operations. As at now, no arrests or direct confrontations linked to the reported training activities have been confirmed. Authorities urge anyone with credible information on suspicious movements to report promptly.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NADF Distributes 100,800 Bags of Fertiliser to Farmers in Kano, Kaduna, Kebbi, Others
Each beneficiary to receive four subsidised bags as government targets lower production costs under Renewed Hope Agenda
Each beneficiary to receive four subsidised bags as government targets lower production costs under Renewed Hope Agenda
The National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) has commenced distribution of 100,800 bags of fertiliser to smallholder farmers across Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi and Jigawa states. The flag-off ceremony was held in Katsina State at the weekend, with the initiative forming part of the Renewed Hope Farm Input Support Programme (FISP) aimed at boosting food production and reducing input costs nationwide.
Executive Secretary of NADF, Mohammed Ibrahim, said during the launch that a total of 25,200 farmers would benefit from the exercise. According to him, each farmer identified by the state chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) will receive four fully subsidised bags of fertiliser. Each participating state is slated to get 20,160 bags for onward distribution to 5,040 selected farmers.
Ibrahim explained that all fertilisers being distributed are locally produced and traceable. He emphasised that the move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to improve agricultural output and ensure food security amid rising production costs and economic pressures faced by Nigerian farmers.
“The programme is designed to support smallholder farmers by increasing their access to quality farm inputs while reducing their overall production expenses,” Ibrahim stated at the event. He added that government’s intervention was necessary to address challenges affecting farmers in the North-West and other regions. Opposition figures were not immediately available for comment on the initiative as at press time.
With this intervention, NADF aims to strengthen food systems in key agricultural states ahead of the next planting season. The agency said further distributions are planned as part of ongoing efforts under FISP to reach more farming communities across Nigeria.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Senate Moves to Resolve NMDPRA, OGFZA Dispute at Bayelsa Retreat
Lawmakers warn unresolved regulatory overlap may threaten oil and gas investments as committee seeks practical solutions
Lawmakers warn unresolved regulatory overlap may threaten oil and gas investments as committee seeks practical solutions
The Senate Committee on Downstream Petroleum Sector has commenced a major intervention to end the ongoing dispute between the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA). The committee began its effort during a five-day stakeholders’ retreat held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, starting Monday.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Sulaiman Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila (NNPP, Kano South), told attendees that the Senate is determined to address the regulatory overlap that has caused uncertainty for investors in Nigeria’s petroleum sector. He described the retreat as a strategic move to bring all relevant parties together and resolve grey areas within the mandates of both agencies.
The conflict between NMDPRA and OGFZA over jurisdiction in oil and gas free zones has lingered for years, creating confusion among local and foreign investors. Lawmakers raised concerns that failure to resolve these issues could undermine investor confidence, threaten ongoing projects, and slow down economic growth within the vital oil and gas sector. Nigeria relies heavily on petroleum exports for government revenue and foreign exchange earnings.
“Our aim is to develop practical recommendations that will promote institutional harmony, strengthen energy security, attract more investment, and support Nigeria’s economic ambitions,” Senator Sumaila said in his opening address at the retreat. He noted that stakeholders from government agencies, private companies, and civil society were present to contribute their perspectives. As at press time, no official statement had been released by OGFZA or NMDPRA on their response to the Senate initiative.
The Senate committee is expected to submit its findings along with actionable policy recommendations at the conclusion of the retreat. Industry observers say resolving this regulatory turf war could improve Nigeria’s business environment and help unlock new investments in downstream petroleum infrastructure across all six geopolitical zones.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Oyo Police Deny Rescue of Igboho Kidnap Victims Amid Social Media Claims
Command says viral reports of Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and son’s rescue are false, as security efforts continue
Command says viral reports of Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and son’s rescue are false, as security efforts continue
The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating online that Mrs Kuburat Omowumi and her son, abducted at Igbope in Oorelope Local Government Area, have been rescued. The denial came in a statement released on Sunday, 21 June 2026, by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, who described the reports as unfounded and misleading.
According to the Command, a video and related online posts went viral over the weekend alleging that the victims kidnapped on 16 June had regained their freedom. However, police authorities insist that no such rescue has taken place, warning that such misinformation could create confusion while efforts to secure their release are ongoing.
The abduction of Mrs Omowumi and her son has raised anxiety within Oorelope LGA and across Oyo State, with many residents calling for increased security presence and a swift resolution. Kidnapping cases have become a recurring concern in South-West Nigeria, fuelling public pressure on security agencies to demonstrate effective response.
In his statement, DSP Ayanlade said: “The Oyo State Police Command has taken notice of a video and related online content alleging that the victims abducted at Igbope on June 16, 2026, have been rescued. The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the claim contained in the circulated video is false, unfounded, and misleading.” He added that intelligence-led operations were ongoing in collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure safe rescue and apprehension of those responsible for the crime.
Police urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports and rely only on official updates from security agencies. As at Sunday evening, search efforts were still underway while families and local leaders continued to appeal for calm. The Command reaffirmed its commitment to restoring safety in Oorelope LGA and bringing perpetrators to justice.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/oyo-police-debunk-reported-rescue-of-igboho-kidnap-victims/
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