🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Sokoto backs Nigeria-Turkey military deal, advocates intelligence-led operations
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
The Sokoto State Government has endorsed a new international military partnership, supporting the training of 200 Nigerian Special Forces personnel in Turkey. The Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters commended the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, for facilitating this initiative, viewing it as a "forward-looking" approach to complex security threats. The state government emphasized that the deal signifies a shift from conventional warfare to precision-driven, unconventional tactics, which are essential given the fluid and unpredictable strategies employed by insurgent groups and bandits. It stressed that modern security challenges demand speed, intelligence, and specialized capabilities. The statement highlighted the necessity of combining specialized training with sustained investment in intelligence gathering, surveillance systems, and inter-agency coordination. It also called for strengthening institutional frameworks to sustain advanced training and deploy elite units effectively. While praising the federal government's efforts, the Sokoto government cautioned that training alone is insufficient without proper strategy, coordination, and support systems. It expressed optimism that a smarter approach, based on training, intelligence, and adaptability, can help Nigeria overcome its security challenges and restore stability.
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Ademola Lookman is a significant doubt for Atlético Madrid's Champions League semi-final match against Arsenal after sustaining an injury in the Copa del Rey final. The 28-year-old Nigerian forward is expected to miss upcoming games against Elche and Athletic Club. Atlético confirmed that both Lookman and Alexander Sørloth experienced physical discomfort at the end of the final and are now undergoing individual recovery programs. The club's medical services have advised caution to prevent further injury risks, and their return to training will depend on the evolution of their conditions. Reports from marca.com indicate that both players are sidelined and face a race against time to recover for the Arsenal fixture. Lookman, who was substituted in the final, is dealing with swelling in his adductor muscle and is anticipated to be out for at least a week. With Arsenal visiting the Metropolitano on April 29, the recovery timeline is tight, though Lookman has started working with medical staff. His potential absence would be a considerable setback for Atlético, given his impact since joining in the winter transfer window. His goal in the Copa del Rey final brought his total goal contributions to 11, the second highest in the squad during that period, and he became the first Nigerian to score in the competition's final since Finidi George in 1997.
Ralph Nwosu, founder and pioneer National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress ADC, discussed the party's current state, including litigation and factional disputes, and its strategy for the 2027 general election. He explained the origin of the David Mark-led ADC coalition, which began over two years ago with meetings involving figures like former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Rauf Aregbesola. The coalition aimed to unite critical opposition figures, leading to constitutional amendments approved by the National Executive Council NEC to facilitate broader participation. Nwosu addressed issues with former presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu, stating Kachikwu was expelled from the party for causing problems and is no longer a member, despite his claims. He also mentioned Bala Nafiu, who was involved in all meetings but later initiated legal challenges. Nwosu dismissed the idea of a significant crisis within the ADC, attributing such perceptions to external influences and the ruling party's alleged efforts to destabilize the opposition. He emphasized that the ADC is not transactional and is focused on nation-building, aiming to secure 37.5 million votes in the 2027 election. Nwosu noted the party's growing membership, particularly in the North-West and North-East, and its expanded presence with 36 state offices, 774 local government offices, and 8,900 ward offices across Nigeria. He also highlighted the formation of the 'One ADC movement' and the 'Coalition for Electo
Must ReadMost Reverend Bulus Yohanna, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria CAN and Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kontagora, stated that the killing of high-ranking military personnel, including Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, has increased fear among Nigerians. Speaking at a CAN Council meeting in Minna, Yohanna lamented that insecurity, hardship, and unfulfilled promises by leaders are major problems in the country. He noted that Nigeria has descended into a state of fear due to incessant killings and abductions by terrorists. Yohanna also expressed concern over warnings from foreign nationals advising their citizens against visiting certain Nigerian states and urging them to leave Abuja due to fear of attacks. He questioned the safety of Nigerians if military generals can be killed, highlighting numerous cases of kidnappings, abductions, killings, and destruction of property by terrorists with little action taken to stop them. The cleric mentioned warnings and alerts, including a leaked memo from the Nigeria Customs Service, about planned attacks on government facilities and military bases. He urged vigilance and prayer, calling on President Bola Tinubu and Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago to swiftly enhance security. Yohanna concluded that change will only occur if Nigerians alter their ways.
Must ReadThe Plateau State Association USA Incorporated, in partnership with Saphira Global Centre for Social Development, has increased trauma healing efforts for victims of attacks in Plateau State. A psychological trauma and resilience awareness training, themed “A Day of Healing and Hope,” was held in Jos for 38 households from communities affected by recent violence. Dr. Barth Shepkong, National President of Plateau State Association USA Incorporated, stated that the intervention addresses the neglected emotional and psychological aspects of crisis response, providing a safe space for victims, especially women and children, to express their emotions. He described the training as a pilot for continuous intervention, with plans for palliative support including finances and food items to follow the trauma sessions. Mrs. Yil Fomwul-Gonsum, Executive Director of Saphira Global Centre for Social Development, emphasized the importance of addressing neglected psychosocial support for survivors. She noted that the partnership was timely and that while it was a one-day program, it was designed for sustainability with plans for future activities. The 38 beneficiary households were selected through community structures in collaboration with youth leaders. Plateau communities have experienced multiple attacks in 2026, resulting in hundreds killed and thousands displaced since January.