馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Katsina security forces kill five bandits, rescue 32 kidnap victims in ongoing operations
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Intensified joint security operations in Katsina State have led to the killing of five suspected bandits and the rescue of 32 kidnapped victims. The state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Mu鈥檃zu, stated that these operations targeted Muhammad Fulani, a notorious bandit leader active in Matazu, Musawa, Kankia, Charanchi, and parts of Kano State. During these operations, security forces recovered an AK47 rifle, 10 magazines, and nine motorcycles. Among those eliminated was Samagi, an associate of bandit leader Muhammadu Kachalla. The rescued victims include 10 women, 9 men, and 13 children. The Katsina State Government, under Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reiterated its stance against negotiating with bandits, committing to their elimination. Operations against Muhammad Fulani are ongoing, with security forces continuing their pursuit across affected areas. Citizens are urged to provide intelligence to aid these efforts. Katsina is a major center of the banditry crisis in Nigeria's North-West, which has caused mass kidnappings, cattle rustling, and displacement, impacting agricultural activities.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadThe Nigerian Communications Commission has initiated consultations on a proposal to provide free internet access to approved educational platforms for millions of Nigerian students. This initiative, known as the Zero-Rated Data Access Project, aims to address digital exclusion by removing the affordability barrier for internet access in learning. The consultation, running from June 19 to July 9, 2026, seeks public input on a framework for this project, following President Bola Tinubu's call for unhindered connectivity to educational institutions. The committee is considering two main implementation options: a single mobile-friendly portal for one-click access to approved resources, or telecommunications operators whitelisting approved educational websites. Eligibility for the program is also under discussion, with options ranging from restricting access to senior secondary and tertiary students, to extending it to all students and teachers in both public and private schools, or a phased approach. The committee emphasizes the need for sustainability and is seeking financing options from stakeholders. Content eligible for free access would include structured digital materials supporting teaching, learning, skills development, and academic assessment, while excluding social media and entertainment platforms. Funding options include the Universal Service Provision Fund, government subsidies, development partners, public-private partnerships, and cost-sharing. The program might in
Must ReadThe Federal Government has urged cement manufacturers to lower prices, citing the burden on infrastructure projects and increased demands for contract variations from contractors. Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, stated that formal engagements with manufacturers would begin on July 1 to address the high cost of cement. Umahi emphasized that manufacturers should reduce costs rather than expect the government to adjust project contracts due to rising material prices. He made these remarks at the unveiling of Lafarge Africa's new corporate identity as HBM, following its acquisition by China's HUAXIN Group. The minister highlighted that reducing cement prices would support critical infrastructure delivery and benefit ordinary Nigerians. He also encouraged HBM and other industry players to increase production capacity to meet the growing demand from President Bola Tinubu's administration's infrastructure expansion, including projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Umahi praised President Tinubu's leadership in driving reforms and infrastructure investments, expressing confidence in the administration's agenda to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. This intervention comes amidst concerns from contractors about the rising cost of construction materials, particularly cement.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission SEC Nigeria, has called for increased collaboration among African markets to foster stronger interconnection and product development. This call was made during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding MoU between SEC Nigeria and the Capital Markets Authority CMA of Rwanda in Abuja. The MoU outlines cooperation in areas such as investor education, capital market development, information exchange on regulatory and market developments, capacity building, training, technical assistance, and enforcement matters. Dr. Agama emphasized SEC Nigeria's readiness to work with African nations to harmonize regulations, promote cross-border listings, and enhance investor protection. He highlighted the importance of Africans investing in each other's markets to build a strong interconnection and noted the capital market's role as a nerve center for economic development and a solution for long-term infrastructure funding. Mr. Romeo Ngaranbe, Chief Executive Officer of CMA Rwanda, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, acknowledging Nigeria's more advanced capital market and anticipating valuable lessons for Rwanda's market development.