
The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organisations GONET has condemned the increasing incidents of child abduction, kidnapping, and violence against children throughout Nigeria. In a statement signed by GONET Chairman Ambassador Ibrahim Yusuf and Secretary Dr Ben Maina, the network expressed deep concern over the growing insecurity affecting children nationwide. GONET stated that child abduction is a severe human rights violation, undermining efforts to create a safe environment for young people. The organization urged security agencies to enhance efforts in preventing these crimes, rescuing victims, and prosecuting perpetrators. GONET also called on parents, guardians, schools, community leaders, religious institutions, and the public to be vigilant and report suspicious activities. Furthermore, GONET appealed to all levels of government to strengthen child protection systems and address the root causes of insecurity. The network extended solidarity to affected families and communities, reaffirming its commitment to advocating for children's rights and welfare, and urged Nigerians to collectively work towards safeguarding children for a safer future.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.

The Lagos State Government has urged parents and caregivers to adopt positive parenting practices to address rising social issues such as domestic violence, substance abuse, bullying, and juvenile delinquency. Bolaji Dada, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, emphasized this during a parenting program in Lagos, highlighting that many social problems stem from poor family relationships. She stressed that the family is the primary institution where children learn values, attitudes, and character, and that intentional parenting is crucial for instilling discipline, empathy, respect, and emotional stability. Dada also expressed concern about technology's influence on youth, urging parents to monitor online activities and maintain open communication. Bose Ironsi, Executive Director of the Women’s Rights and Health Project, advocated for parenting built on trust, communication, and mutual respect, cautioning against harsh methods. Rianat Onigbanjo, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, reiterated that the family is a child's first classroom for learning values like love, discipline, and integrity. The program provided practical guidance and information on support services available through various government and non-governmental organizations.
Must ReadThe Federal Government plans to issue a second bond worth approximately N729bn to settle verified legacy debts owed to electricity generation companies. This initiative aims to restore liquidity to Nigeria's power sector and boost investor confidence. This issuance, which will be preceded by an Investors’ Forum on July 21, 2026, will conclude the first phase of the Presidential Power Sector Debt Reduction Programme, bringing the total value of the first two bond issuances to about N1.23tn. The Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc announced this development, following the successful release of about N501bn in January 2026 under the same program, approved by President Bola Tinubu. The first coupon and principal repayment on the Series 1 bond were settled promptly on July 14, 2026, reinforcing the government's commitment to its obligations. Johnson Akinnawo, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc, stated that this second issuance is a significant step towards resolving verified legacy obligations through a transparent, structured, and market-based mechanism, which will improve liquidity, support new investment, and promote sustainable electricity generation. The N4tn Presidential Power Sector Debt Reduction Programme was approved by the Federal Executive Council in 2025, with the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc designated as the sponsoring institution for settling verified debts. The program utilizes multiple issuances of debt instruments by
Must ReadSpeaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, is set to inaugurate an ad hoc committee today to investigate the inclusion of the unestablished Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council PFIPC in the 2026 Appropriation Act. The committee, chaired by Yusuf Gagdi, will examine how approximately N1.32 billion was allocated to an agency that has not been legally established. This probe follows the arrest of Adeyemi Adeniyi, who allegedly presented himself as the Director-General of the PFIPC and is accused of orchestrating its budget inclusion. Adeniyi reportedly claimed to have paid N100 million through proxies to the President's Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, to facilitate the agency's establishment, an allegation denied by both the Presidency and Gbajabiamila's office. The investigation, conducted under Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, will involve key government officials, civil society organizations, and the public. Invited stakeholders include ministers of Budget and Economic Planning, Finance, Industry, Trade and Investment, Attorney-General, Foreign Affairs, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and heads of anti-graft agencies. However, the committee's decision not to invite Gbajabiamila or Adeniyi has drawn criticism, with some expressing concerns about the credibility and potential bias of the investigation.