BANNER NEWS

Month: July 2026

  • Education Remains a Critical Tool for Tackling Insecurity, Says IGP

    Education Remains a Critical Tool for Tackling Insecurity, Says IGP

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to advancing quality education for its personnel and their children, describing education as a vital instrument for national security, peace, and sustainable development.

    The IGP stated that investing in the education of Nigerian children would help reduce crime and address the country’s growing security challenges by equipping young people with knowledge, values, and opportunities for productive engagement.

    Disu made this assertion during the 33rd Passing-Out Parade for the 2026 graduating class of Police Secondary School, Akpabuyo, Cross River State. He was represented at the ceremony by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone Six, AIG Auwal Musa Muhammad, whose remarks were delivered by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Kabiru Ibrahim.

    While congratulating the 106 graduating students, the IGP described them as future leaders and urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and optimistic as they progress to the next stage of their academic and personal development.

    He encouraged the graduates to uphold integrity, diligence, and good character, and to remain worthy ambassadors of their school, families, and the Nigeria Police Force.

    The police chief also cautioned the students against social vices, the misuse of social media, and negative peer influence, advising them to pursue their aspirations with determination and resilience.

    In her remarks, the Commandant of the school, CSP Halima Audu, described education as the foundation for developing responsible and productive citizens, noting that “the world of tomorrow will be shaped by the children of today.”

    She reiterated the school’s commitment to academic excellence and character development, while expressing appreciation for the continued support of the Nigeria Police Force, parents, and other stakeholders in the growth of the institution.

    The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards to outstanding students for exceptional academic performance. Abang Dominion Nkim-Osowo emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student of the 2026 set, winning prizes in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, in addition to being named the Best Science Student.

    The 106 graduating students participated in the ceremonial passing-out parade after successfully meeting all academic and institutional requirements.

    The event, a longstanding tradition of the institution, highlighted the discipline, resilience, and values instilled in the graduating students.

  • Our Stance Against Criminality Is Uncompromising – Gov Otu 

    Our Stance Against Criminality Is Uncompromising – Gov Otu 

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has stressed that his administration has demonstrated an uncompromising stance against criminality.

    He said this steel stance can be seen through sustained investments in security architecture across the state.

    He spoke when he was assuring the maritime investors, that they have nothing to be afraid of as his government, in appreciation, will continue to provide enabling environment and security for all investments in the state.

    “Security is the core responsibility of government,” he told them.

    “This administration has zero tolerance for any form of criminality. That is why we have invested heavily in strengthening security across Cross River.

    “You have our full backing, and I assure you that you will never regret investing in the maritime sector of our state.”

    The Governor further seized the opportunity to invite prospective investors to take advantage of the vast commercial opportunities embedded in Cross River’s expansive waterways within the Gulf of Guinea, particularly the Calabar-Cameroon trading corridor.

    According to him, the state’s blue economy remains one of the most promising frontiers for commerce, transportation, tourism and regional integration, with government fully committed to unlocking its immense potential.

    “We will continue to provide the enabling environment for businesses like yours to thrive.”

    Otu stated that the protection of lives, property and investments remains one of the cardinal responsibilities of government.

    The Governor undertook a tour of the Calabar jetty and inspected marine businesses. He was accompanied on the inspection tour by the Commissioner for Transportation, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham; the Special Adviser on Blue Economy, Ms. Melodie Lebo; and other maritime stakeholders.

    A marine businessman, Dr. Thompson Eja, expressed profound appreciation to the Governor for personally visiting the facility and to reassure investors of government support.

    He commended the Governor’s firm declaration of zero tolerance for insecurity, describing it as a confidence booster for businesses operating within the maritime sector.

     

  • 2027: Group Pushes For Okun Governor, Seeks End To Political Imbalance In Kogi

    2027: Group Pushes For Okun Governor, Seeks End To Political Imbalance In Kogi

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Lokoja

    The Kogi Equity Movement (KEM) has called for the governorship of Kogi State to shift to the Yoruba-speaking Okun people of Kogi West Senatorial District in the 2027 election, saying the move would promote equity, fairness and inclusive development.

    The group’s Convener, Arc. Amdii A. Amdii Zaguru, made the call in a statement, describing the next governorship election as a defining opportunity to correct what he termed decades of political imbalance in the state.

    According to him, the Okun people possess the leadership capacity, population and vision required to provide effective governance and move Kogi State forward.

    He said the quest for an Okun governor was driven by the need to ensure justice, foster unity and give every section of the state a sense of belonging.

    Zaguru also lamented what he described as the prolonged neglect of Bassa Local Government Area, insisting that the people deserved greater inclusion in governance and the state’s development agenda.

    He said an administration led by an Okun governor would focus on infrastructure, security, job creation and improved social services across neglected communities, including Bassa.

    The movement appealed to political leaders, traditional rulers, youths, women and civil society organisations across Kogi’s three senatorial districts to support the emergence of an Okun governor in 2027 in the interest of peace, equity and sustainable development.

    It also announced plans to begin statewide consultations, grassroots mobilisation and stakeholder engagements in the coming weeks to build support for what it described as a campaign for political equity in Kogi State.

  • Troops Rescue 48 Abducted Victims, Foil Mass Kidnap in Zamfara

    Troops Rescue 48 Abducted Victims, Foil Mass Kidnap in Zamfara

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter

    Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have rescued 48 kidnapped victims after repelling a bandit attack on Magami village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

    The rescue operation was launched following a distress call received by troops of Sector 2 in the early hours of Sunday, reporting that dozens of heavily armed terrorists riding about 40 motorcycles had invaded the community and abducted several residents.

    According to a statement issued by the Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, the attackers had assembled the abducted residents and were preparing to move them into the forest, while another group waited on the outskirts of the village with the motorcycles.

    Lt. Col. Danja said the troops responded swiftly to the distress call and engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle immediately upon arrival at the scene.

    The superior firepower of the troops forced the bandits to abandon all the abducted victims and flee into the surrounding forest, leading to the successful rescue of all 48 captives.

    Despite the successful operation, one civilian lost his life during the attack, while two others sustained gunshot injuries. The injured victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Kaura Namoda, where they are receiving treatment.

    Following the rescue, the troops conducted intensive patrols in and around Magami village to forestall further attacks and reassure residents of their safety.

    The Theatre Command of Operation FANSAN YAMMA commended the troops for their gallantry, courage and professionalism, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property across the North-West.

    The command also appealed to residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to strengthen ongoing operations against terrorists and other criminal elements in the region.

  • Improved Welfare, Reason for Pelican Stars’ Return to Top Flight – Chairman

    Improved Welfare, Reason for Pelican Stars’ Return to Top Flight – Chairman

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    The Cross River State Government has attributed the resurgence of state-owned women’s football club, Pelican Stars FC, to sustained investment in players’ welfare and improved funding, following the club’s promotion to the Nigeria Women’s Premier Football League.

    Chairman of the club, Mrs. Sofia Francis Aribiah, said the team’s return to the elite league was driven by the support of Governor Bassey Otu and the welfare initiatives championed by the First Lady, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu.

    Speaking in Calabar on Saturday over HIT FM radio, Aribiah said the administration’s commitment to the club had transformed the morale and performance of the players.

    She recalled that Governor Otu, upon assuming office, increased the club’s monthly subvention from ₦5 million to ₦15 million, cleared outstanding financial obligations and ensured the regular payment of salaries and match allowances.

    According to her, the First Lady has complemented the government’s efforts by taking a personal interest in the welfare of the players, maintaining regular contact with the club’s management and providing each player with a monthly bag of rice and other food items.

    Aribiah, a former banker, described the promotion as a major milestone, noting that it came barely six months after she assumed office as chairman of the club.

    “I am delighted that within six months, my team and I have witnessed the promotion of Pelican Stars back to the top-flight league. The governor’s support and the First Lady’s motherly care have inspired the players to give their best,” she said.

    She pledged that the club’s management would consolidate on the achievement by strengthening the squad and ensuring Pelican Stars remain competitive in the Nigeria Women’s Premier Football League.

    Pelican Stars, one of Nigeria’s most successful women’s football clubs, regained promotion after a season in the lower division, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to revive women’s football.

     

  • CUSTECH Expels Two, Rusticates Four Students Over Alleged Misconduct

    CUSTECH Expels Two, Rusticates Four Students Over Alleged Misconduct

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Lokoja

    The Management of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, Kogi State, has expelled two students and rusticated four others over alleged involvement in homosexuality and fighting on campus.

    The disciplinary measures were contained in separate letters signed by the institution’s Deputy Registrar (Academics), Mr. Eli Usman Gbadafu, following the approval of the University’s 31st Regular Senate Meeting, which considered recommendations of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee.

    According to the university, the sanctions were imposed in accordance with the provisions of the CUSTECH Students’ Handbook, Second Edition, as amended in 2025.

    The two students expelled over alleged involvement in homosexual activities are Onumoko Hamza of the Department of Biology Education and Abdulazeez Lukman Eneji of the Department of Mining Engineering.

    Also sanctioned were four students rusticated for one academic session over their involvement in a campus fight. They are Favor Akowe of the Department of Microbiology, Simbiat Babamuharuna of the Department of Biology, and Zainab Salami Omayoza and Sukura Bukola, both of the Department of Biochemistry.

    The university management reiterated its commitment to maintaining discipline, warning that it would continue to impose appropriate sanctions on any student found guilty of misconduct.

    It stressed that no individual would be allowed to undermine the peace, order and conducive academic environment being maintained within the institution.

  • Kano Fixes August 6–9 for Mass Wedding of 1,500 Couples

    Kano Fixes August 6–9 for Mass Wedding of 1,500 Couples

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Kano

    The Kano State Government has fixed August 6 to 9, 2026, for the mass wedding of 1,500 couples under its social welfare programme aimed at supporting vulnerable residents.

    The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, announced the dates on Saturday, saying the exercise follows Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s approval of ₦1.5 billion to fund the initiative.

    According to him, marriage counselling for the selected couples will take place on Thursday, August 6, while the wedding ceremonies are scheduled for Friday, August 7.

    He added that a walima (wedding banquet) will hold on Saturday, August 8, with the distribution of household items and empowerment packages slated for Sunday, August 9.

    Daurawa disclosed that each bride will receive ₦100,000 to establish a small-scale business, while each groom will be given ₦100,000 to assist with dowry payments. The couples will also receive furniture, food items and other household essentials to help them begin married life.

    He revealed that although more than 5,000 applicants registered for the programme, only 3,000 individuals, representing 1,500 couples, were selected after undergoing medical screening, including tests for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, genotype compatibility, pregnancy and drug use.

    The Hisbah Board warned members of the public against paying anyone for participation in the programme, insisting that the exercise is free and fully funded by the state government.

    The board further stated that participating couples are expected to seek mediation through the Hisbah Board before initiating divorce proceedings as part of efforts to promote stable families.

    Governor Yusuf described the mass wedding initiative as a key component of his administration’s social intervention programme designed to strengthen family values, reduce social vices and provide support for widows, divorcees, low-income earners and other vulnerable groups.

  • OPINION..Nigeria’s Ambassador To Germany And Projection Of Ibibio Heritage

    OPINION..Nigeria’s Ambassador To Germany And Projection Of Ibibio Heritage

    By IKPAT UduakAbasi
    ‎
    ‎As one of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures, Senator Ambassador Ita Solomon Enang, OFR, NPOM, has consistently demonstrated that cultural identity is not a burden in diplomacy but an asset. His audience with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin, the capital of Europe’s largest economy, reflected more than the presentation of diplomatic credentials, it projected the pride, dignity and enduring heritage of the Ibibio people onto one of the world’s most influential diplomatic stages.
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    ‎As the Chinese philosopher Confucius observed, “The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.” Nations that confidently project their cultural identity often command greater respect in the international community.
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    ‎Enang’s appearance at Bellevue Palace therefore transcended protocol. While the presentation of Letters of Credence formally inaugurated his tenure as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Germany, it also demonstrated that effective diplomacy can successfully blend national responsibility with cultural authenticity.
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    ‎By proudly identifying with his roots, he reinforced the truth that a diplomat best represents his country when he remains connected to the values and traditions that shaped him. This cultural confidence carries profound significance in an era where nations increasingly deploy soft power to strengthen their presence.
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    ‎Beyond economic statistics and political influence, the character, traditions and identity of a people often become enduring symbols of national prestige. Ambassador Enang’s projection of Ibibio heritage contributed to that broader narrative by presenting Nigeria as a country whose diversity enriches rather than weakens its global identity.
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    ‎The symbolism of the visit became even more compelling because it unfolded in Berlin, Germany, the Europe’s largest economy and one of Nigeria’s most strategic development partners.
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    ‎Standing before one of the continent’s most vibrant and influential leaders while visibly embracing his cultural heritage conveyed a subtle and powerful message that Nigeria’s ethnic diversity remains one of its greatest diplomatic strengths rather than a point of division to the people.
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    ‎Yet cultural symbolism alone was not the defining outcome of the engagement. The bilateral discussions between both leaders addressed critical areas capable of shaping the future of Nigeria-Germany relations, including trade, investment, energy cooperation, agriculture, power infrastructure, technology transfer and skills development. The meeting reflected a shared determination to deepen mutually beneficial partnerships beyond traditional diplomatic exchanges.
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    ‎Particularly noteworthy on this historic occasion was the commitment to advance a proposed Nigeria-Germany Migration Agreement designed to establish structured pathways for qualified Nigerian professionals in healthcare, engineering, artificial intelligence and technology to contribute to Germany’s workforce. Such collaboration demonstrates that contemporary diplomacy is increasingly measured by opportunities it creates for citizens rather than ceremonial exchanges alone.
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    ‎The conversations between both leaders highlighted prospects for an increased German investment in manufacturing, automobile assembly, renewable energy and industrial development. Of particular importance is the very emphasis on gas utilisation projects capable of converting flared gas into electricity, a development that perfectly aligns with Nigeria’s aspirations for sustainable energy, industrial growth and economic diversification in years ahead.
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    ‎Regional peace and security however also featured very prominently during the engagement, reflecting Nigeria’s strategic position within West Africa. Discussions on ECOWAS, renewed engagement with Sahelian states and notable humanitarian concerns surrounding Bakassi Peninsula illustrated that Enang’s assignment extends beyond bilateral cooperation to include issues affecting regional stability and Africa’s collective development.
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    ‎Equally significant was Ambassador Enang’s articulation of his vision to serve as “a bridge of prosperity” between Nigeria and Germany. That commitment reflects the evolving philosophy of Nigeria’s foreign policy, where economic diplomacy, investment promotion, technology acquisition and diaspora engagement increasingly define the success of diplomatic missions.
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    ‎His interaction with Nigerians resident in the Federal Republic of Germany further reinforced this people-centred approach. By assuring the diaspora of an open-door policy and committing the embassy to addressing concerns relating to consular services, education and professional recognition, he affirmed that diplomacy must remain responsive to the welfare of citizens beyond national borders.
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    ‎For the people of Akwa Ibom State, and indeed the wider Ibibio nation, Ambassador Ita Enang’s emergence on such a distinguished international platform inspires renewed confidence in the global relevance of indigenous identity. It demonstrates that cultural heritage is not diminished by international exposure; rather, it gains greater visibility and appreciation when presented with dignity, confidence and purpose.
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    ‎Ultimately, Ambassador Ita Enang’s assumption of office in Berlin should be remembered not only as a diplomatic milestone but also as an affirmation that authentic representation begins with embracing one’s roots. By projecting Ibibio heritage while advancing Nigeria’s strategic interests in Europe’s largest economy, he offered a compelling reminder that culture and diplomacy are complementary instruments of national influence. In doing so, he strengthened Nigeria’s image abroad while proving that local identity, when confidently expressed, can become a powerful language of global engagement.
    ‎

  • Kano to Float Commercial Airline, Targets Employment for State-Trained Pilots

    Kano to Float Commercial Airline, Targets Employment for State-Trained Pilots

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Kano

    Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has announced plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline as part of efforts to create jobs for indigenous pilots trained under government sponsorship and strengthen the state’s aviation sector.

    The governor disclosed this during the 40th Kano State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Kano, while receiving several awards, including a recognition from the Kano State Pilot Association for supporting members to complete their aviation training.

    A statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, said the proposed airline is expected to commence operations within the next one year.

    Yusuf said the initiative would provide employment opportunities for Kano-trained pilots and assured that his administration would provide the necessary support to ensure the successful take-off of the airline.

    “By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline is expected to commence operations within the next one year,” the governor said.

    He expressed satisfaction with the performance of pilots sponsored by the Kano State Government for professional training in Jordan under a previous administration, describing their achievements as a testament to the value of sustained investment in human capital.

    The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing the aviation sector and ensuring that the trained professionals contribute to the state’s economic growth.

    Earlier, Chairman of the Kano State Pilot Association, Naziru Ibrahim, commended Governor Yusuf for facilitating the revalidation of members’ flying licences, describing the intervention as a major boost to their professional careers.

    Ibrahim also appealed to the governor to assist members of the association in securing their final certifications to enable them operate commercial flights within Nigeria and on international routes.

  • UNICROSS Marks 24 Years As Alumni Association Celebrates 14th Anniversary

    UNICROSS Marks 24 Years As Alumni Association Celebrates 14th Anniversary

    By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

    The National President of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Alumni Association, Dr Peter Iyali, has said the institution and its alumni body have every reason to celebrate despite their relatively young age, highlighting the association’s growing contributions to the university’s development.

    In a statement ahead of the university’s 24th anniversary and the alumni association’s 14th anniversary, Iyali noted that UNICROSS, formerly Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH), was established in August 2002 following the merger of the Polytechnic, Calabar, the College of Education, Akamkpa, and Ibrahim Babangida College of Agriculture, Ovonum, Obubra.

    He explained that while the university’s first graduates emerged in the 2006/2007 academic session, the alumni association was inaugurated about five years later and has since embarked on several intervention projects aimed at improving the institution.

    According to him, the association has donated books and laptop computers, implemented scholarship programmes, renovated university facilities, provided a borehole and commenced the construction of an Alumni Centre, although the project has been slowed by internal challenges.

    Iyali disclosed that the association is preparing to launch another strategic intervention project, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the growth of its alma mater.

    He observed that the university, being relatively young, has produced only one professor from among its graduates, while many pioneer alumni are still building their careers, a situation he said has naturally limited the level of support members can currently provide.

    The alumni president also reflected on the university’s unique history, noting that it was created through the merger of older institutions whose graduates have become established in various fields. He said repeated efforts to unite those graduates under the UNICROSS Alumni Association had yielded limited success but expressed optimism that they would eventually organise themselves and contribute to the development of the institution.

    Iyali stressed that giving back to one’s alma mater should not be measured solely by financial donations or infrastructure projects, insisting that efforts aimed at addressing systemic challenges and strengthening the university’s foundation are equally significant.

    While acknowledging that the association is still evolving, he said its modest achievements have attracted recognition from more established alumni bodies, adding that members remain determined to expand their impact.

    “We are not yet where we aspire to be, but we have made a promising start. Building a solid foundation is never easy, yet we are moving steadily in the right direction,” Iyali said.

    He reaffirmed the association’s resolve to continue learning from older alumni organisations while working towards making UNICROSS one of Nigeria’s foremost universities through sustained support from its graduates.