Nigerian Army rescues abducted students and teachers in Borno State after ISWAP attack
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Paul Namaske, Vice Principal of Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Borno State, recounted an attack by terrorists on Monday, June 29, during which two teachers and over 20 students were abducted while writing National Examinations Council examinations. Namaske stated that a military aircraft's presence caused the insurgents to disperse, allowing the captives to escape and be rescued by soldiers. The Nigerian Army confirmed the rescue of 10 victims, including teachers and students. Acting Military Information Officer, North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Muhammed Goni, reported that ground troops, supported by air platforms, rescued the victims unhurt after making contact with the abductors near Daggu. During the rescue operation, one soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force were killed. Troops also recovered seven motorcycles from the fleeing terrorists. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims.
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.
The Obidient Movement, through its National Coordinator Dr. Yunusa Tanko, has assured supporters that Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso will be candidates in the 2027 general elections. This assurance comes despite recent political and legal developments, including a Federal High Court judgment that set aside a previous order for the Independent National Electoral Commission to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress NDC as a political party. The court's decision was based on a claim by the Peace Movement Party regarding ownership of the logo used for registration. Tanko stated that the coalition built around Obi and Kwankwaso remains strong and will not be deterred by attempts to frustrate it, emphasizing that the movement aims to offer Nigerians an alternative to the ruling party through lawful and peaceful means. Peter Akah, an NDC House of Representatives aspirant, also reiterated that Obi and Kwankwaso would be on the ballot, suggesting that the legal challenges faced by the NDC are aimed at stopping its presidential candidate.
Must ReadThe Federal Executive Council has approved a comprehensive overhaul of the National Youth Service Corps, marking the first major restructuring of the scheme since its establishment 53 years ago. These reforms aim to reposition the NYSC into a skills-focused, productivity-driven institution aligned with the Federal Government鈥檚 economic agenda. A key change involves the leadership structure, with the NYSC now to be headed by a civilian, while the military will continue to provide security for corps members. The Attorney-General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development have been directed to amend the NYSC Act to provide legal backing for these changes. The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced the approval, stating that the reforms will transform the scheme into a platform that unites Nigeria and equips young people with necessary skills. The reforms include a technology-driven call-up process, risk-sensitive deployment, a redesigned six-week orientation program focusing on leadership, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and specialized career streams, and skills-based primary assignments. Other changes involve modern governance with civilian operational leadership, improved camp standards, a new graduation ceremony, and a redesigned NYSC uniform. The reform process began in 2025 through a broad-based review involving relevant ministries and the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination. Established in 19
BreakingThe death toll from the earthquakes that struck Venezuela five days ago has increased to at least 1,719, according to National Assembly president Jorge Rodriguez. He also stated that 5,034 people were injured in the quakes, and tens of thousands remain missing.