The Defence Attachés of the United Kingdom and Germany to Nigeria, Brigadier Tom Harper and Colonel Boris Bovecamp, have reaffirmed continued support and collaboration in the fight against terrorism and insurgency.

This assurance was during their visit to the Headquarters of the Theatre Command, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri.
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‎A statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba indicates that Brigadier Tom Harper commended the Nigerian Armed Forces’ efforts in tackling terrorism in the North East region, particularly through Operation HADIN KAI, and expressed the UK’s commitment to providing further training support through the British Military Advisory Team (BMATT).
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‎Equally, the Defence Attaché of Germany to Nigeria, Colonel Boris Bovecamp said he was in the Theatre to explore possible areas of future collaboration especially in the area of capacity building as well as possible interventions through regional cooperation arrangements to enhance operational effectiveness and collaboration to defeat terrorism.
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‎The Theatre Commander of OPHK, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, lauded the significant contributions of the UK and German Defence Attachés to counter-insurgency efforts, noting that training initiatives have enhanced troops’ skills and proficiency in responding to evolving security challenges in OPHK emphasizing the mutual benefit of the partnerships.
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‎He highlighted areas of future collaboration to include technical expertise as well as equipment and logistics support.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Deputy Editor, Nigerian Tribune, Oladipo Ogunsola, popularly known and called “Prince D”, who passed away on Wednesday, February 18.

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Akeem Abas and Secretary, Temidayo Adu and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ibadan, the council described late Oladipo Ogunsola as a cool, calm, intelligent, amiable, peaceful and resourceful journalist whose dedication to journalism and service to humanity stood him out.

The NUJ noted that his commitment to ethical reporting, professionalism and comradeship earned him respect across newsrooms and within the union, adding that his death was a painful loss to the media family.

It prayed that Almighty God will look kindly upon His servant, Oladipo Ogunsola, grant him merciful judgement, forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest in His bosom.

The council commiserated with his immediate family, management and staff of the Nigerian Tribune, friends and professional associates, urging them to take solace in his impactful life and enduring legacy.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, has accepted to serve as the Royal Father and Chairman of the 2026 World Egungun Festival, pledging his full support for the cultural programme as Oyo State intensifies preparations for the globally recognised event.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, made this known on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the monarch at his residence in Ibadan, where the Ministry’s management team formally invited him to chair the festival.

Olatubosun said the visit was also to appreciate the Olubadan’s consistent support for the Ministry’s programmes, even before his ascension to the throne, describing the monarch as a strong cultural ambassador whose influence would further elevate the festival’s prestige.

He disclosed that significant improvements have been made ahead of the 2026 edition to address concerns raised by the Olubadan during the 2025 festival, particularly regarding visibility and convenience for VIP guests.

The Commissioner revealed that no fewer than 200 masquerades are expected from within and outside Nigeria, with about 10 countries and over 100 groups and associations already indicating interest to participate in the festival in their colourful uniforms.

He also disclosed that the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has pledged attendance at the 2026 festival.

“We want Ibadan to become a major tourist destination and a cultural hub that the world will continually reckon with,” Olatubosun stated.

In his response, the Olubadan accepted the invitation and assured the delegation of his presence and support for the programme.

Meanwhile, as part of broader preparations for the festival, the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism also held a strategic meeting with leaders and key members of the Ijo Oje Parapo Welfare Association across various local government areas in the state.

The meeting, held at the Town Hall in the palace of the Akibio of Ilora, was aimed at strengthening collaboration and consolidating preparations for the 2026 World Egungun Festival, while addressing concerns raised after previous engagements.

Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Olatubosun explained that the renewed prominence of the Egungun Festival has continued to attract international attention, including Brazil, as the diaspora reconnects with the authentic custodians of the tradition in Oyo State.

He expressed optimism that with sustained efforts and proper packaging, the festival could secure UNESCO recognition within the next six years.

“We want to promote the entertainment and tourism potential of the festival to the world, but it is important that we take ownership of it and preserve its authenticity,” he said.

Also speaking, the Acting General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. S.A. Agboola, appreciated the elders and members of the association for their cooperation, particularly during the 2025 edition which he described as mutually beneficial.

Agboola stressed the cultural and spiritual significance of the Egungun Festival, noting that Egungun stands prominently alongside Sango in traditional worship and community participation.

“You may not yet fully realise the value of the World Egungun Festival, but it stands out since its take-off in 2024 and has become a unifying traditional festival,” he said.

He added that the Ministry has been deliberate in reshaping misconceptions previously associated with the festival, particularly concerns about disorder and insecurity, assuring stakeholders that the issues raised at earlier meetings would be addressed.

Members of the Ijo Oje Parapo Association who spoke at the meeting emphasised the need for cleanliness, discipline and proper presentation of masquerades, while appealing for a more organised environment for the 2026 edition.

They also requested representation on the festival planning committee, which was approved.

The Commissioner further advised the association to organise a formidable youth body under the National Council for Isese Youth Organisation to ensure sustainability and structured participation of younger generations.

The Oyo State Security Network Agency and Amotekun Corps has strongly condemned what it described as a “Gestapo-style” abduction of one of its operatives, Amo Saheed Ajibola, by suspected men of the Nigeria Police from Zone 11, Amo Ajibola who was lawfully deployed to a static patrol position covering General Gas, Akobo Ibadan, was reportedly abducted at about 2000hrs (8p.m.) on Tuesday, 17 February , 2026, while on official duty.

Reacting to the incident, the Oyo State Commandant of the Amotekun Corps, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (rtd.), faulted the manner in which the operative was abducted. He noted that the agency has consistently maintained a cooperative relationship with other sister security agencies which includes the Police, DSS, and the NSCDC, particularly in handling criminal cases involving own operatives. We have always handed over suspected accused to relevant security agencies on request. That is the standard procedure being observed in our collaboration with the police and other sister agencies.

He stressed that if there were any investigation involving the officer, the appropriate step would have been to formally approach the Amotekun Headquarters, especially since Amo Saheed was on lawful duty at the time of his abduction. Therefore, the Gestapo approach of abducting Amo. Saheed Ajibola while on duty does not demonstrate civility.

“Consequently, there was no reason whatsoever to justifying the Gastapo like action of the police officers from Zone 11, Osogbo. There is the need for the police to be civil in their approach by being mindful that all suspects has a right to know their offences and their fundamental rights should be respected during arrest.”

It was observed that the Gastapo approach could have resulted in violent resistance which may lead into fatality. The police officers who abducted Amo Saheed on duty were not in police uniform nor branded police vehicle. Considering that anybody can claimed to be a police officer carrying sophisticated weapons and on mufti bearing in mind circumstances surrounding recent incidences of abduction in the metropolis.

The Commandant described the method adopted by men of Zone 11 as unbecoming and thus advised that better approach be adopted in the future in the interest of inter-agency cooperation and effective synergy.

As at press time, there has not being any official correspondence to Amotekun Headquarters on the abduction of Amo Saheed Ajibola.

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for procuring armoured personnel carriers, surveillance drones, and operational equipment for troops in Zamfara State.

On Wednesday, the governor distributed armoured vehicles and other operational equipment to troops at a ceremony held at the Government House, Gusau.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the 25 highly sophisticated Armoured Personnel Carriers being procured and commissioned will enhance troop protection during deployments into high-risk areas across Zamfara.

The statement also noted that other equipment purchased by the Zamfara State Government includes an 80-meter endurance surveillance drone capable of covering 50 kilometres and operating continuously for eight hours.

In his remarks at the launch, Governor Lawal said the Defence Minister’s presence at the unveiling not only reinforces the depth of federal and Zamfara State synergy but also reflects a united front and collective resolve to establish and defend lawful authority.

He said, “For years, Zamfara State faced a security crisis disrupting life. Rural areas experienced instability, farmers faced uncertainty, and movement along key roads was cautious. Markets underperformed, affecting productivity, income, and confidence. These were widespread issues impacting daily life and the economy.

“Under our Rescue Mission, we moved from fragmented responses to structured reform. The Zamfara State Security Trust Fund provided a predictable framework for logistical support to security forces. We strengthened collaboration with the Armed Forces, police, and other agencies through regular coordination. We implemented the Community Protection Guards in accordance with the law to enhance grassroots intelligence and early-warning capacity.

“These measures were designed to ensure that security intervention is supported by financing discipline, legal clarity, operational coordination and logistics facilitation. As an administration, we spare no expense to ensure the logistical support our security agencies on the ground receive.

“When we operationalised the Homegrown Community Protection Guards, we provided them with 60 Brand New and well-equipped Hilux operational vehicles and motorcycles to ensure adequate coverage, swift response and effective first responder services.

“The state government distributed 150 new Hilux vehicles to security forces, including the Nigeria Police, Department of Security Services, NSCDC, and others. Additionally, 20 Toyota Buffaloes were procured—10 armoured, and 10 soft-body. Over 600 specialised motorcycles have been provided for rapid response in tough terrain. These efforts have significantly contributed to recent successes.

“Beyond ground mobility, the integration of unmanned aerial systems expands reconnaissance reach. This is why we are also providing the drones. Aerial surveillance improves situational awareness, assists terrain assessment, and supports more precise coordination between command centres and field units. Real-time information strengthens decision-making and reduces operational blind spots.

“To the military commanders present today, these assets represent structured public investment and collective trust. Deployment must be intelligence-guided and strategically prioritised. Maintenance schedules must be strictly observed. Operational discipline must remain uncompromising. Long-term effectiveness depends on professional stewardship.

“To our officers and soldiers facing tough conditions, we honour your sacrifice and support your families. The government’s role goes beyond mere praise; it must provide the necessary protective and operational tools to enable you to perform effectively. Improving your safety also safeguards our communities.

Earlier, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), said that the procurement of the armoured vehicles by the Zamfara state government demonstrates the governor’s commitment. “From what I have seen, if we continue like this in the second term, Zamfara will look like Dubai.

“The protection of lives and properties rises above party lines, political affiliations and differences, and that is why I am particularly very happy to be here. That you have been a state executive who has done it for everyone, you are very distinct and very determined in what you are doing.

“It takes courage and firm conviction for subnational leadership to commit substantial resources towards strengthening public safety, and the best thing about this is that everything has been paid for. This sends a strong message to criminals.”

The Distinguished Senator representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Alhaji Senator Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari, extends his warmest greetings and heartfelt felicitation to Muslim Ummah and Christian faithfuls across Oyo North, Oyo State and Nigeria at large as both religious communities commence their sacred fasting seasons.

Senator Buhari notes with deep spiritual reflection that it is profoundly symbolic and divinely instructive that Muslims and Christians are observing fasting periods at the same time — a moment he describes as “a rare spiritual convergence ordained by God Almighty to cleanse hearts, purify intentions, and heal our nation.”

Addressing the Muslim faithfuls on the commencement of Ramadan fasting, the Senator urges total submission to the will of  Almighty Allah, devotion to prayers, charity and compassion to humanity.

He draws from the Holy Qur’an:
“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain righteousness.”
— Qur’an 2:183

Senator Buhari emphasizes that Ramadan is not merely abstinence from food and drink, but a sacred season of self-discipline, sacrifice, forgiveness and generosity to the less privileged.

He calls on Muslims to use the period to pray fervently for peace, security, progress and leadership wisdom in Nigeria.

In the same breath, the Senator extends special goodwill to Christian faithful who are equally observing their fasting and Lenten solemnities.

He notes that Christian fasting represents spiritual renewal, penitence and deeper communion with God, anchored on the teachings and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Quoting the Holy Bible, he states:
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face.”
— Matthew 6:16–17

And further:
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice… to share your food with the hungry?”
— Isaiah 58:6–7

Senator Buhari therefore calls on Christians to let the fasting period reflect love, justice, charity and national intercession for Nigeria’s healing and restoration.

The Lawmaker stresses that the simultaneous fasting period should not divide but unite Nigerians across faith lines.

“Whether Muslim or Christian, fasting teaches sacrifice, humility, tolerance and love.

Our nation needs these virtues now more than ever,” he said.

He urged religious leaders to use this sacred window to preach peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and national unity, adding that Oyo North remains a shining example of interfaith harmony.

Senator Buhari concluded by praying that Almighty Allah and God Almighty accept the prayers, supplications, sacrifices and acts of charity of all faithfuls, granting Nigeria peace, prosperity and righteous leadership.

Ramadan Kareem to the Muslim Ummah.
Graceful Lenten Season to the Christian Faithful.