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Nigeria’s transport system so far, has evolved into more advanced, modern and efficient means of commuting, driven by innovation and technology-based platforms.

Moving around a city in Nigeria, which was either with personal cars or jumping public buses has now evolved into booking a ride, with just one smart phone both for those with or without a car.

Today, smart mobility platforms and connected vehicles are making commuting more convenient and accessible, through technology.

From e-hailing platforms to the rise of electric mobility, technology is changing the way Nigerians commute. Here’s how these innovations are transforming the nation’s transport ecosystem.

Electric, hybrid two and three wheelers

Rising petrol prices are fuelling interest and increasing the growth of these vehicles making different vehicle classes coexist and changing how Nigerians move, and how transport businesses operate.

Electric vehicles (EVs) run solely on electricity from a battery that is plugged in to charge, while hybrid vehicles (HEVs) use a combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor, with the battery being recharged by the engine and through braking.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are a third category that can be plugged in for a longer electric-only range but also have a gasoline engine for extended travel.

Their growing presence signals a shift toward cleaner, smarter, more sustainable mobility models, and these innovations are fostering new technical skills, research, and investment in green technology, which is gradually diversifying Nigeria’s transport system beyond traditional fuel distribution and maintenance.

Autonomous vehicles

Autonomous vehicles, also known as self-driving cars, use technology to operate with little or no human intervention, employing sensors, cameras, radar, and AI to perceive their environment and make driving decisions.

While Nigeria is still at an early stage in adopting this innovation, the concept is gradually influencing how stakeholders envision the future of mobility in the country.

They offer potential benefits like increased safety, improved traffic flow, and greater accessibility, but still face challenges related to safety, cost, and regulation.

Although Nigeria lacks the infrastructure and regulations required for full AV deployment, the gradual adoption of semi-autonomous technologies, such as driver-assist systems, lane detection, and adaptive cruise control, in newer vehicle models is laying the groundwork.

This evolution signals how automation is beginning to shape Nigeria’s journey toward safer, smarter, and more sustainable transport systems.

Ride-hailing platforms

Ride-hailing platforms are services that connect passengers with drivers through mobile apps for on-demand transportation.

They have become one of the most visible examples of how technology is transforming Nigeria’s transport ecosystem.

By connecting drivers and passengers through mobile apps, these platforms have digitised urban mobility, changing how Nigerians commute.

Through the use of GPS navigation, digital payments, and real-time ride tracking, ride-hailing technology has increased convenience and accessibility, allowing commuters to request rides on demand, improved safety and accountability with driver ratings, trip tracking, and cashless payment options.

It has created new employment opportunities for thousands of drivers and vehicle owners, and encouraged innovation, with local startups developing specialised mobility services such as bike-hailing, carpooling, and corporate ride management.

AI driven traffic management

AI-driven traffic management uses cameras and sensors to collect real-time data, which machine learning algorithms then analyze to optimise traffic flow by dynamically adjusting traffic light timings.

This approach reduces wait times and congestion, improves travel speeds, decreases fuel consumption, and can even predict future congestion to allow for proactive management.

AI is increasingly becoming part of efforts to modernise Nigeria’s transport ecosystem, particularly through AI-driven traffic management systems.

Although still in early stages, the adoption of AI-driven traffic management shows how digital infrastructure and data analytics are beginning to transform Nigeria’s urban mobility, paving the way for smarter, safer, and more sustainable transport systems.

Intelligent transport system (ITS)

In Nigeria, especially in cities like Lagos and Abuja, are adopting smart cameras, surveillance networks, and route-mapping tools to address traffic congestion, track incidents, and manage emergency responses.

ITS solutions like smart cameras, digital road signs, speed sensors, and automated traffic reporting are helping cities modernise road management.

For example, the Lagos State Government has introduced digital traffic cameras, smart traffic lights, and a traffic control centre that uses live feeds to monitor vehicle movement and coordinate responses to incidents.

Digital ticketing and payments

Digital ticketing and payments are also transforming Nigeria’s transport ecosystem by replacing cash-based transactions with electronic, traceable, and more convenient payment methods across buses, ferries, and trains.

Common examples include mobile apps for booking tickets that can be paid for using a digital wallet or QR code, and contactless systems like NFC-enabled cards for public transport or even biometric payments.

These solutions aim to streamline the purchasing and access process, reduce fraud, and eliminate the need for physical tickets or cash.

In cities like Lagos, this shift is being driven by innovations such as the Cowry Card, a contactless payment system introduced by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).

Commuters can now pay seamlessly for BRT, ferry, and train rides using a single digital card or mobile app, eliminating the need for paper tickets or cash exchange.

Lawmakers in the House of Representatives on Tuesday rejected motions seeking to address insecurity in the country including the alleged religious killings in Nigeria after a heated disagreement over which committee should investigate an alleged illegal allocation and sale of federal land at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex.

A motion on renewed criminal activities in parts of Kwara State, sponsored by Mohammed Umar, was rejected amid shouts of ‘nay’ from members. Another motion seeking to counter the ‘misleading international narratives on religious killings in Nigeria’ also failed to pass.

The tension stemmed from an earlier motion of urgent public importance moved by Ademorin Kuye, representing Somolu Federal Constituency, Lagos State, who called for a probe into the alleged illegal sale of government assets at the Lagos Trade Fair Complex. Kuye had proposed that the House Committee on Public Assets lead the investigation.

His proposal was immediately challenged by the Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Francis Waive, who insisted that oversight of the Trade Fair Complex constitutionally falls under the Committee on Commerce.

The disagreement quickly escalated into a heated row as lawmakers cited conflicting sections of the House Standing Orders to justify their positions. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, argued that since the complex is a federal property, it rightly falls under the purview of the Committee on Public Assets.

‘Order 109 clearly states that the Committee on Public Assets oversees ministries and agencies managing and disposing of public assets. The Lagos Trade Fair is one of such assets,’ he said.

But Mark Esset, Lawmaker representing Akwa Ibom disagreed, saying the complex is primarily a commercial entity and therefore falls under the Committee on Commerce.

Several lawmakers attempted to broker a compromise by proposing a joint investigation, but the suggestion failed to gain support.

Tensions escalated when James Wubarka, Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Commerce disclosed that his committee had already undertaken two oversight visits to the complex and warned that transferring the probe would amount to stripping Commerce of its statutory function.

The row over the Lagos Trade Fair investigation effectively stalled proceedings, with lawmakers refusing to entertain further motions and shouting down anyone who attempted to present one including he security motions wbivh were both shouted down.

Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker eventually called for a closed-door executive session to address the discord among members, following what appeared to be a complete breakdown of order on the floor.

As Nigeria’s power grid continues to wobble under pressure, more households and businesses are turning to solar energy for stability. But investing in solar panels is only half the story; the battery that stores your energy can make or break your system’s performance.

Choosing the right solar battery isn’t just about going for the cheapest or most popular option; it’s about finding a solution that fits your energy needs, your budget, and your local environment.

A good solar battery means steady power during blackouts, lower energy costs, and greater independence from unreliable grid supply. It also helps you reduce your carbon footprint by relying less on generators.

For homeowners and businesses alike, the benefits extend beyond convenience. Over time, energy savings and reduced maintenance costs can offset the initial investment, especially with durable lithium options from brands like BYD, Felicity, Blue Carbon, Yohako, and SRNE, now popular in the Nigerian market.

Here’s what to consider before making your next big energy investment.

1. Capacity (Ah): How Much Energy You Can Store

The first thing to check is the battery capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah). This number tells you how much electricity your battery can hold, essentially, its fuel tank size. A 200Ah battery can store twice as much energy as a 100Ah battery.

Your ideal capacity depends on your energy consumption. If you run a fridge, fans, lighting, and electronics during outages, go for a higher-capacity battery. But be mindful: bigger batteries cost more and are heavier. For households with modest needs, pairing two mid-sized batteries often strikes a good balance between cost and power reliability.

2. Voltage Compatibility: Getting the Match Right

Most solar batteries come in 12V, 24V, or 48V configurations. Your battery’s voltage must align with your solar inverter and panel setup. Mismatched voltages reduce efficiency and can damage equipment. In Nigeria, 48V systems are increasingly common because they offer better efficiency and lower current losses. When in doubt, check with your installer – it’s cheaper to get advice than to replace fried components later.

3. Battery Type: Lead-Acid vs. Lithium

In Nigeria, the solar market is largely dominated by two battery chemistries: lead-acid and lithium-ion.

Lead-acid batteries, including flooded, gel, and AGM types, are the traditional choice. They’re cheaper upfront and widely available but require maintenance, such as topping up water and cleaning terminals. They’re heavy, less energy-dense, and only allow you to use about 50 percent of their total capacity safely.

Lithium-ion batteries, particularly LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) types, are changing the game. They’re lighter, longer-lasting, and can discharge up to 80-90 percent of their stored energy without damage. While more expensive, they often last three to four times longer than lead-acid batteries and perform better in Nigeria’s heat, a crucial factor for long-term value.

4. Depth of Discharge (DoD) and Cycle Life – How Long It Will Last

The Depth of Discharge (DoD) tells you how much of the battery’s stored power you can safely use. Lead-acid models often have a 50 percent DoD, while lithium batteries typically allow 80-90 percent.

Cycle life, meanwhile, measures how many charge, discharge cycles the battery can handle before its capacity drops below 80 percent. Lead-acid batteries deliver around 1,000-2,000 cycles, while lithium versions can offer 3,000-7,000 cycles or more, depending on usage and brand.

The takeaway? Lithium batteries cost more upfront but give you significantly more years of reliable service, often making them cheaper in the long run.

5. Efficiency and Temperature Tolerance

Efficiency refers to how much energy you get out versus what you put in. Lithium batteries boast 90-95 percent round-trip efficiency, compared to about 80-85 percent for lead-acid models. That means less wasted power and better solar system performance.

Nigeria’s climate is another factor. High temperatures – often above 35°C – can degrade lead-acid batteries quickly. Lithium iron phosphate batteries, on the other hand, handle temperatures up to 60°C with minimal performance loss. Installing your battery in a shaded, well-ventilated area also extends its lifespan.

6. Warranty, Support, and Value for Money

A solid warranty is a vote of confidence from the manufacturer. Look for products offering at least 5 to 10 years of coverage or a guaranteed number of cycles. Local support is equally important, choose brands with Nigerian service centers or authorized dealers for easy access to parts and repairs.

While price matters, focus on value, not just cost. A cheaper battery that fails after two years will cost more to replace than a higher-quality unit that lasts eight to ten. Always compare warranties, efficiency, and brand reputation before committing.

Bottom Line

Choosing a solar battery in Nigeria isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It’s about aligning your energy habits, environment, and long-term goals with the right technology. As the country’s solar revolution accelerates, making an informed choice today can keep your lights on, efficiently, quietly, and sustainably, for years to come.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State on Tuesday presented a total budget proposal of ?897,865,078,282.05 for the 2026 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly.

Speaking during the presentation at the chamber of the State House of Assembly, Radda noted that the submission of the proposed budget was for the House’s consideration.

He said, ‘As I submit the proposed budget for 2026 for your careful consideration, a testament to our commemorative dedication and advancement of the welfare of all residents. I would like to formally express my appreciation to the Honorable Speaker of this House of Assembly, for his exemplary leadership and support. I also extend my gratitude to each Honorable Member.

‘The constructive relationship between the Executive and legislative has been a privilege to collaborate in such a productive manner. The support provided by this House has enabled the advancement of progressive initiatives and activities that have contributed to security. The authority of the government is derived from its citizens.

‘Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, it is therefore my honour and privilege, as the Executive Governor of Katsina State, to present before this esteemed House the highlights of the 2026 Appropriation Bill as follows:

‘The total size of the Budget is the sum of N897,865,078,282.05 each for Revenue and Expenditure, with the following allocations:

Recurrent Expenditure = N167,725,372,458.50 representing 18.68% and Capital Expenditure = N730,139,705,823.55, representing 81.32%.

‘The total of this Budget when compared with that of 2025 has an increase of N205,620,628,768.18, representing 29.70% increase.’

He further noted that ‘the recurrent revenue was at = N577,721,259,831.18

‘There is: – A FAAC component = N489,141,132,718.38 and an IGR = N88,580,127,112.80

‘This has an increase of N117,738,941,478.55 with an increase of 26%’, he said.

He also highlighted his administration’s community-driven approach to ending insecurity and others in 2025.

According to him, ‘Mr. Speaker, our community-driven approach to security is now widely adopted. Legislation has increased importance for security. While we have had progress, further action is needed to fully address the insecurity in the city.

‘We have implemented the following measures as part of our security plan. Engage and train 1,100 community volunteers. Work closely with community watch in various capacities in all the frontline local governments.

‘We must sustain joint security operations to ensure a smooth and productive farming season. We conducted a group exercise on part three of our 200 community watch personnel. Provided monthly allowances to 1,279 security support groups, 6,650 chief ward heads, 2,525 imams, 2,550 liners, and 2,559 leads in each of our wards and districts.

‘Deployed additional 200 members to help boost community protection gains in our fight against insecurity. They include provision of solar power plant installation, replacement for chains of 8, additional number of APC armored conveyor belt personnel to the security operations in the city. Land acquisition and acquisition’.

He further said in preparing the 2026 fiscal proposal, each ministry, department, and agency was thoroughly engaged and prepared to invest in self-management. Every project, programme, and initiative can completely improve the lives of our citizens.

Responding, Nasir Yahaya Daura, Speaker, Katsina State House of Assembly, said the House has, over time, listened with keen attention to the Radda administration’s comprehensive review of the 2025 budget performance and projection for the 2026 fiscal year.

‘Your Excellency, we have listened with keen attention to your comprehensive review of the 2025 budget performance and your projection for the 2026 fiscal year.

‘Your Excellency, throughout the year you have maintained steady economic growth and ensured that public resources are effectively utilized for the benefit of our citizens.

‘We must commend you for your sustained efforts towards security, peace and stability throughout the state,’ the Speaker said.

Seplat Energy Plc reported a surge in operating cash flow to over $1 billion for the first nine months of 2025, allowing Nigeria’s leading independent energy producer to cut net debt by 43 percent and raise its quarterly dividend by more than 60 percent.

The company’s unaudited results showed that after-tax cash flow from operations rose 183 per cent year-on-year to $1.01 billion, supported by strong crude liftings, expanded offshore operations, and disciplined cost control. Net debt dropped to $386 million from $676 million in the previous quarter, improving Seplat’s net leverage ratio to 0.27 times EBITDA, well below its target ceiling of 1.0x.

Revenue tripled to $2.18 billion in the nine months ended Sept. 30, compared with $715 million a year earlier, while adjusted EBITDA jumped 190% to $1.11 billion. Profit before tax rose 133% to $570 million, even as Seplat faced higher royalties and maintenance expenses from its expanded portfolio following the integration of former Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU) assets.

‘We have delivered a third consecutive quarter of production growth and generated over $1 billion in after-tax operating cash flows,’ Roger Brown, chief executive officer of Seplat. ‘This enabled significant deleveraging and supports our commitment to increased shareholder returns.’

The board declared a third-quarter dividend of 7.5 US cents per share, comprising a 5.0 cent base payout and a 2.5 cent special dividend, up 63% quarter-on-quarter and more than double the year-earlier payout. Seplat said its robust cash generation aligns with its new dividend policy announced at its September Capital Markets Day, which targets $1 billion in cumulative dividends by 2030.

The company used the windfall to pay down debt aggressively. During the period, Seplat repaid and cancelled its Westport junior facility, refinanced its senior reserve-based loan at a lower interest rate, and cleared the remaining $100 million balance on its revolving credit facility, which now remains fully undrawn.

At quarter end, gross debt stood at $965.7 million, down from $1.38 billion at end-2024. Cash at bank rose 23 percent to $579.8 million, excluding $135.4 million in restricted cash.

Average working-interest production rose to 135,636 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd), up 185 percent from the same period last year. Offshore volumes, which now account for roughly 60% of total output, benefited from the ongoing idle-well restoration program that has brought 33 wells back online this year, adding about 33,400 barrels per day in gross capacity. Onshore production climbed 18% year-on-year to 55,299 boepd, supported by improved uptime on the Trans Escravos and Amukpe-Escravos pipelines.

Third-quarter output averaged 137,888 boepd, 1 percent higher than the previous quarter, with onshore production up 5% and offshore volumes dipping slightly due to scheduled maintenance on the East Area Project platform. Seplat narrowed its full-year production guidance to the upper end of 130,000-140,000 boepd.

In the gas segment, production rose 68 percent to 47.7 billion standard cubic feet, boosted by higher uptime at the Oben and Sapele plants. The ANOH gas processing plant, a key growth project, remains on track for first gas in the fourth quarter.

Average realised crude price fell 13% to $71.93 per barrel amid softer Brent benchmarks, but this was offset by higher production volumes and stronger NGL and gas prices during the third quarter. Unit operating costs were $14.1 per barrel of oil equivalent, within Seplat’s guidance of $14-$15/boe.

The company booked a 148 percent increase in gross profit to $879.5 million, while operating profit surged 159% to $711 million. Despite higher non-production costs, including royalties, depreciation and regulatory fees, margins remained strong thanks to operational scale and improved efficiency.

Seplat reported a 21 percent reduction in carbon emissions intensity from its onshore operations to 25.2 kilograms of CO2 per barrel of oil equivalent. It remains on track to eliminate routine flaring onshore by the end of 2025. The company also commissioned its first liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cargo to the domestic market, part of its effort to expand access to cleaner cooking fuels.

However, operations were briefly disrupted by a fire on the Yoho production platform in late September. The incident caused no injuries but is expected to trim fourth-quarter output by about 10,000-12,000 boepd. ‘The event reinforces our decision to prioritize additional investment in asset integrity,’ Brown said.

Seplat reaffirmed its commitment to capital discipline, narrowing full-year capital expenditure guidance to $270-$290 million. The company remains focused on completing its Petroleum Industry Act conversion process and delivering on its 2030 roadmap, which targets 200,000 boepd in working-interest production and expanding its role as a major domestic gas supplier.

‘Our performance this year underscores our ability to operate at scale and deliver sustainable value to shareholders,’ Brown said.

Mohammed Idris, minister of information, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu is working assiduously to address the threat of invasion by U.S. President Donald Trump over alleged genocide against Christians in Nigeria.

Idris who spoke with State House journalists after meeting with the President on Tuesday, said Tinubu is cautious not to overheat discussions on the issue, but added that the President is using multiple channels to enlighten the global community on the current situation in Nigeria

According to him ‘Mr President is calm. He is looking at the whole situations and he is looking for ways and means of ensuring that the International community understands what Nigeria has been doing.’

He recalled that only two weeks ago, President Tinubu had reworked the security architecture of the country, by reinvigorating the hierarchy of the Armed Forces, with the appointment of a new Chief of Defence Staff and other service chiefs.

‘These were all the issues that came out before the U.S. concerns. So, that tells you that Mr President has been working assiduously to ensure that Nigeria is a country that remains safer for all Nigerians to live in.

‘We are looking at all the issues and we don’t want to over heat discussions but work is ongoing and we have also opened channels of communication for International Organisations to understand what Nigeria has been doing better and what we intend to further do to ensure that whatever concerns that there are, either domestically here, or from the international communities, are being answered.’

He reiterated that the Tinubu’s administration is using multiple approach, including ‘discussions with the leadership of religious groups.’

‘Mr President has been meeting with them and he will continue to do so, they are all Nigerians and he is leading them, they are ofcourse, important stakeholders in the Nigerian project.’

He also assured that President Tinubu will continue to engage with the International community, including the U.S. and every regional body.

‘The continental bodies and everyone that we think has a role to play in ensuring that Nigeria succeeds in ridding this country of this criminal element that are helping the world to drive this narrative to give Nigeria a very bad name and we know that this is not who we are as a country.

‘So, for us to be characterised as a country that is not tolerant when it comes to religion is not accurate, this is absolutely false.

‘Nigeria has Muslims and Christians and even those who even do not believe in any of these religions and our constitution guarantees everyone should practice their faith without hindrance and Mr President is going to respect that to the letter.’

Idris, while acknowledging that the country has security challenges, added that ‘but no where has there been any decision to favour one religion or the other or to inflict violence over one religion.

‘What has happened is that we have these extremists that are driving this narrative and their desired outcome is to see that this country is divided and we want to caution Nigerians to look deeper, this is a time for us to reflect on our nationhood to reflect on our unity, this is not the time for division, this is not the time for rhetoric, it is the time for nation building. It is the time for calling for everyone to come together so that we can continue to have a Nigeria of our dream.’

Idris noted that ‘those that should look at this issues are looking at them with all the responsibilities and the depth that it requires so that at the end of the day we will come out of this, we believe that we will come out of this very strongly.’

When Joseph Anya founded Lifebox Labs, he wasn’t trying to build just another healthtech startup, he wanted to start a cultural shift.

His platform, Priv Health, is confronting one of Nigeria’s most deep-rooted social silences: men’s unwillingness to talk about their health.

‘In Nigeria, many men grow up hearing that real men don’t complain. That mindset has done a lot of damage. It has made men feel like admitting they have a health problem means they are failing at being men,’ Anya told BusinessDay.

For Anya, this is not just about stigma, as it is about survival. Conditions like erectile dysfunction (ED), often dismissed as private shame, can actually be early warning signs of serious cardiovascular problems. ‘Many men don’t realize ED can be one of the first tangible signs of heart disease. By ignoring it, they are ignoring their body’s alarm system,’ he explains.

Priv Health was built to change that narrative, to make men see seeking help not as weakness, but as responsibility. The digital platform offers discreet, judgment-free consultations with licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in men’s sexual and mental health. Every part of the experience, from onboarding to medication delivery, is designed to prioritize privacy, empathy, and convenience.

‘Our goal was simple: to make it as easy for a man to treat ED or low testosterone as it is to buy a new phone online,’ Anya says.

Since its launch, the platform has quietly gained traction among men across Nigeria. Over 1,000 users have already engaged with Priv Health, and more than half of them say it was the first time they ever spoke to a professional about their sexual or mental health. ‘That tells us we are breaking through the silence. We are creating a space where men can finally open up,’ Anya notes.

Behind that progress is a careful blend of design and psychology. The app avoids clinical jargon and instead uses clear, reassuring language. The consultation process feels more like a conversation than a hospital intake form. Even medication packaging is discreet, no awkward pharmacy counters, no curious glances.

‘Trust is everything. When a man opens up about something this personal, that is not a small step. He needs to feel seen, not judged,’ says Anya.

Priv Health’s early success also points to a broader shift happening in Nigeria’s healthcare culture. Younger men, especially those familiar with telemedicine and fintech, are increasingly seeking privacy and control over their wellbeing. ‘The same way technology changed how we bank, shop, and communicate, it is now changing how we care for ourselves,’ Anya says.

Looking ahead, Lifebox Labs plans to expand Priv Health’s reach through partnerships with pharmacies, gyms, and corporate wellness programs, meeting men where they already are. There are also plans to invest in health education content and online communities that normalize conversations about male wellness.

For Joseph Anya, every consultation and every conversation is part of a bigger mission, which is redefining masculinity itself. ‘Change takes time, but every man who chooses to take control of his health brings us closer to a new kind of masculinity, one that values strength, honesty, and self-care,’ Anya averred.

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade deployed at the Forward Operating Base in Oguma have rescued two kidnapped victims and recovered N3.8 million ransom money during a counter-kidnapping operation in Kogi State. The operation took place on Sunday along the troubled Itobe-Adumu-Ejule axis, where kidnapping activities have intensified in recent months.

The rescue followed intelligence indicating that families of abducted persons were on their way to deliver ransom payments to secure the release of their loved ones. Acting on the report, soldiers launched a mission to locate the criminals and prevent the transaction.

According to a statement issued on Monday by Hassan Abdullahi, the acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade, Hassan Abdullahi, troops on patrol headed towards Achigili Forest a suspected hideout for criminal elements. However, the soldiers came under heavy fire from the kidnappers who attempted to prevent them from disrupting the ransom exchange.

An exchange of gunfire ensued, during which the troops reportedly overpowered the assailants with ‘superior firepower.’ The armed group eventually abandoned two kidnap victims along with the ransom cash and fled deep into the forest, allegedly with gunshot wounds.

Abdullahi said the N3,800,000 earmarked as ransom was recovered intact, and the victims were safely rescued with no injuries. The rescued individuals were later debriefed to support ongoing intelligence efforts. The money was also returned to their families, while the victims remain in secure custody pending a formal handover to relevant authorities.

Reassuring residents, the Army spokesperson emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains ‘resolute and unwavering’ in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and the country at large. He urged the public to maintain strong cooperation with security forces by providing timely information capable of exposing criminal hideouts and movements.

Sunday’s successful operation is the latest in a series of anti-kidnapping interventions led by the 12 Brigade, which has stepped up security actions in Kogi amid rising concerns over banditry and ransom-driven abductions.

The Brigade has recently recorded significant breakthroughs in dismantling criminal networks. In October, troops working jointly with the police and local vigilantes stormed and set ablaze a bandits’ camp on the outskirts of Aherin-Bunu community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area. The coordinated strike was led by jerry Omodarathe the State Security Adviser,

Similarly, in September, security forces under Operation Accord III neutralised a notorious bandit commander identified as Babangida Kachala. He was alleged to be the deputy to the feared Kachala Shuaibu, whose gang had terrorised communities around the Masalaci Boka and Ofere Forest corridors.

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to deepen grassroots development and sustain programmes that directly impact the lives of citizens.

The governor stated this when he received Abdulkareem Obaje, the national coordinator of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, who paid him a courtesy visit in Dutse alongside his team and a television documentary crew from Abuja.

Hamisu Mohammed Gumel, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Dutse noted that, Obaje commended the governor and the government of Jigawa State for their tremendous support of the NG-CARES programme since its formal inception in 2021.

The statement reads, ‘the NG-CARES programme has run now for four years, and we have reimbursed the state to the tune of $696 million. We have reached about 70 million Nigerians with this intervention.

‘We have passed through the stage of emergency and recovery. We are now at the stage of building resilience among the poor and vulnerable in Nigeria.

‘Jigawa State is one of our frontline states. You have drawn up to $10 million under the NG-CARES programme, about $9.6 million so far, not up to the $30 million expected, but that depends on the DLIs selected and how they were implemented. The implementation here has been very successful, and there is a lot of credibility and ownership that we have seen from Your Excellency.

‘Your Excellency, we are moving swiftly to NG-CARES 2.0. I have received a report that Jigawa State is fully ready to participate in NG-CARES 2.0. The only major thing outstanding is the subsidiary loan agreement.

‘As soon as this agreement is finalised by the Federal Ministry of Finance, the programme will be declared effective. The tentative date we are looking at for effectiveness is around 9th December. We have about a month to go.

‘I recall your visit to a community where you received a complaint about a particular DLI that was not functioning optimally. And on this point, you directed action to be taken. That is why Governor Namadi listens to the people. We greatly appreciate your leadership.’

In his response, Governor Namadi thanked the NG-CARES team for the visit and described the programme as one of the most impactful initiatives reaching the poorest communities in Jigawa State. ‘NG-CARES is one single programme that has truly touched the lives of our people,’ he said.

‘I was one of the governors who took the campaign of continuation of NG-CARES not only at the Governors’ Forum but also at the World Bank level. I insisted to the then Country Director that if there is any programme that has brought impact to our people, it is NG-CARES.

‘I can tell you that without fear of contradiction, NG-CARES 2.0 is our brainchild because we promoted its continuation.’

Governor Namadi pledged continued state support for the programme, emphasising its value in strengthening livelihoods and promoting social security.

‘We will support these programmes because we have campaigned for their continuity. As a government, we will give all the support that is required because we know this programme has great benefit to our people, in terms of social security, promoting agriculture, and improving livelihood,’ he said.

The visit was part of a nationwide engagement by the NG-CARES coordination office to document outcomes, gather feedback, and showcase success stories as preparations for NG-CARES 2.0 advance, the statement added.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State on Tuesday handed over 63 patrol vehicles to security agencies and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) operating in Maiduguri and its environs.

Of the 63 vehicles, 30 were allocated to the 10 different sectors of the CJTF, 16 to the Rapid Response and Anti-Social Vices units, 10 to paramilitary organisations, six to hunters, and one to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

The distribution aims to enhance the mobility and response capacity of the police, other security outfits, and the CJTF in tackling security threats such as armed gangs and other forms of criminality within the state capital and its surrounding areas.

This latest donation is one of several vehicle distributions made by the Zulum administration since 2019, all aimed at strengthening the state’s security architecture and safeguarding the lives and property of citizens.

While presenting the vehicles, Governor Zulum reiterated his government’s commitment to providing continuous logistical support to security forces. He emphasised that security is part of the cardinal priorities of his administration.

He said ‘We are here in continuation of our efforts to support the security apparatus in Borno State with equipment and logistics needed for them to function effectively.’

‘I want to assure you that the government of Borno under my leadership will continue to support you with a view to achieving the noble objectives in ensuring the state is rid of insurgency,’ the governor added.

Zulum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the security forces for their efforts to restore normalcy in Borno.

He stated, ‘Let me also use this opportunity to extend my profound appreciation to the President Bola Ahmed Tunibu, the services chiefs, theatre commander, sector commanders and all officers and men of the Nigerian armed forces that are in operation hadin Kai, and indeed all paramilitary organisations in Borno State for the great works that they’ve been doing in the state.’