Nigeria News (Standard)
FG Releases Updated Emergency Hotlines for All 36 States and FCT to Boost Rapid Response
Direct state control room numbers, national toll-free codes, and specialised agency contacts published for medical, fire, and security incidents
Direct state control room numbers, national toll-free codes, and specialised agency contacts published for medical, fire, and security incidents
The federal government has unveiled a comprehensive list of emergency hotlines for all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), aiming to improve rapid response to medical, fire, and security emergencies nationwide. The updated directory was released on Saturday, highlighting both national toll-free lines and direct mobile numbers for state police commands and emergency control rooms.
According to the directory, while Nigerians can dial the national 112 toll-free code for immediate assistance in any part of the country, direct 11-digit mobile numbers are also provided for each state’s command centre. These lines are intended to bypass delays often experienced on national switchboards during critical incidents such as health emergencies, fire outbreaks or criminal attacks.
The directory also features dedicated numbers for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Federal Fire Service (FFS), and domestic violence support units. For example, NEMA can be reached on 0800 22 55 63 62 for disasters such as floods or building collapses, while FFS is available on 0803 200 3557 nationwide.
A breakdown of the contact details shows that every state—including Lagos (with its unique toll-free codes ‘767’ and ‘112’)—has at least one direct-dial number for its police or emergency control centre. Other shortcodes like ‘199’ for Police and ‘122’ for Road Safety remain active across Nigeria. Authorities advise citizens to save both local and national lines to ensure swift access during emergencies.
Officials said publishing the verified contacts is part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety infrastructure amid rising concerns over delayed first responder deployment. The government urged Nigerians to make use of these lines responsibly and reminded callers that while shortcodes are toll-free, standard network charges apply on full-length mobile numbers. The new directory is expected to reduce response times significantly and ensure that help reaches affected communities faster in times of need.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/nigeria-emergency-numbers-state-directory-2026062213515128457
Nigeria News (Standard)
Troops Repel Attacks, Rescue Abducted Victims in Sokoto and Katsina States
Military operations disrupt armed men’s raids in North-West, with several captives freed and communities secured
Military operations disrupt armed men’s raids in North-West, with several captives freed and communities secured
Nigerian Army troops have successfully repelled coordinated attacks by armed men in Sokoto and Katsina States, rescuing multiple abducted persons during operations carried out on Monday, 22 June 2026. The incidents occurred in separate communities across the North-West as security forces intensified patrols to curb escalating banditry.
According to reports from the affected areas, troops responded swiftly after receiving distress calls about the presence of armed men attempting to abduct residents. In Sokoto State, soldiers engaged the attackers in a firefight, forcing them to flee and enabling the rescue of several captives. Similarly, in Katsina State, security operatives intercepted another group of armed men, leading to the safe recovery of victims previously taken hostage.
These operations come amid growing concern over persistent insecurity and abductions in Nigeria’s North-West zone. Many communities in Sokoto and Katsina have faced repeated attacks by criminal gangs seeking ransom payments, prompting calls for stronger government intervention. The recent rescue efforts signal an increased tempo of military action in response to public outcry over rising kidnappings.
Military authorities commended the troops’ quick response and assured residents that security agencies remain committed to restoring peace. A spokesperson for the Army urged communities to continue providing timely information on suspicious movements. Meanwhile, local leaders welcomed the news of rescued victims but called for sustained action to prevent future abductions.
The situation remains tense across parts of Sokoto and Katsina as security forces maintain heightened vigilance. Analysts say ongoing military pressure could help disrupt criminal networks but stress that improved intelligence gathering and community cooperation are vital for long-term stability.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Senegal’s Mbaye Joins Pelé, Messi, Yamal in Elite World Cup Club
Youngster becomes one of few to play FIFA World Cup at age 16, matching records set by football legends
Youngster becomes one of few to play FIFA World Cup at age 16, matching records set by football legends
Senegalese footballer Amara Mbaye has joined a rare group of players who have featured at the FIFA World Cup at just 16 years old, matching the feats of football greats such as Pelé, Lionel Messi, and Spain’s Lamine Yamal. Mbaye’s inclusion in this exclusive club came after he made his tournament debut for Senegal during the ongoing World Cup.
Mbaye, who is regarded as a rising star in African football, made his first appearance for Senegal’s senior national team on Monday. This significant milestone places him among the youngest players to ever compete on football’s biggest stage, highlighting both his talent and the increasing trust national teams are placing in youth development.
Historically, only a handful of players have achieved such an early breakthrough at the World Cup. Brazilian legend Pelé was famously just 17 when he starred in the 1958 tournament, while Lionel Messi and Spain’s Lamine Yamal also entered the global spotlight as teenagers. Mbaye’s achievement underscores Senegal’s commitment to nurturing young talent and signals a new era for African participation in world football.
With Mbaye now part of this distinguished list, analysts expect more attention to be paid to youth scouting and development across African nations. The Senegal Football Federation has expressed pride in Mbaye’s progress and called on other young players to draw inspiration from his rapid rise. The federation said it will continue investing in grassroots programmes to ensure that more talents like Mbaye get opportunities on the world stage.
As the World Cup progresses, observers will be watching closely to see how Mbaye performs against some of football’s toughest opponents. His early debut may inspire a new generation of African footballers aiming for global recognition.
Nigeria News (Standard)
British High Commission Flags Vote Trading, Accessibility Gaps in Ekiti Governorship Election
UK congratulates Oyebanji, INEC and security agencies but raises concerns over party agent interference and disabled voters’ access
UK congratulates Oyebanji, INEC and security agencies but raises concerns over party agent interference and disabled voters’ access
The British High Commission has commended the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State, while raising concerns about reports of vote trading and limited accessibility for persons with disabilities at several polling units. The commission made its position known in a statement released on Monday, following the re-election of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across all 16 local government areas in the South-West state.
According to the statement, the British mission welcomed the orderly nature of the poll and applauded the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other stakeholders in delivering a largely credible process. It noted that effective cooperation between election officials and security personnel contributed to a calm atmosphere across most polling centres.
However, the High Commission expressed concern over persistent reports of vote trading—where votes are exchanged for cash or favours—and alleged interference by party agents at some locations visited by UK observers. It also highlighted technical challenges faced by voters and cited limited access for persons with disabilities as an area requiring urgent attention.
“The peaceful and orderly delivery of the election by INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders is commendable,” the commission stated. “Nonetheless, we remain concerned about incidents of vote trading as well as accessibility issues that undermine electoral integrity.”
The commission’s statement comes as Nigeria prepares for further off-cycle elections ahead of the 2027 general polls. Stakeholders have called on INEC to intensify reforms that will address technical glitches and ensure inclusive participation for all eligible voters. As at press time, opposition parties had not issued formal reactions to either the conduct or outcome of Saturday’s election.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/uk-flags-vote-trading-accessibility-issues-in-ekiti-poll/
