🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Soldier killed, another injured during kidnapping attempt in Ogun's Magbon-Etido area
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
A soldier was killed and another injured on Monday in the Magbon-Etido area of Mowe, Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, during an attempted kidnapping. Gunmen, suspected to be kidnappers, opened fire when soldiers intervened to foil the abduction of a man. Multiple sources confirmed the incident, with a community source stating the attackers stormed the area in a commando-style operation. While initial reports and a viral video suggested a bandit attack, security sources and the Ogun State Police Command clarified that the incident was a criminal attack by kidnappers, not bandits. The Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the soldier's death and the injury of another, adding that police and military operatives are conducting coordinated operations to apprehend those responsible. The command assured residents that the situation is under control and security has been reinforced.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
BreakingUS President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that negotiations for a Middle East peace deal were in their "final throes" following a halt in hostilities between Iran and Israel. Trump indicated that a deal could be reached within "two or three days." The recent exchange of fire saw Iran launch nearly 30 missiles at Israel, which retaliated by striking military sites in Iran. While no casualties were reported in Iran or Israel from these strikes, Israeli actions in southern Lebanon resulted in 14 deaths. Iran had previously stated that any agreement must include Lebanon, where Israel has been targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that the "fire on that front is contained" after Iran ceased military action, but warned of a full-force response if attacks resumed. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz affirmed that the campaign in Lebanon would continue. Trump reportedly urged Netanyahu to stop further strikes, with US Vice President JD Vance acknowledging that while the US and Israel share interests, their positions do not always align. Diplomatic efforts, including mediation by Pakistan, are ongoing, with Iranian President Masoud Pezehskian confirming Tehran is still "at the negotiating table."
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed grief over a train derailment in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, which resulted in four fatalities and several injuries. The Governor described the incident as tragic and heartbreaking, offering condolences to the bereaved families and wishing the injured a swift recovery. He confirmed that the state government activated emergency response measures, directing the Commissioner for Special Duties and local government chairmen to oversee rescue operations. Governor Oborevwori also commended security agencies for their prompt intervention. Injured passengers were transported to nearby hospitals, with 35 individuals receiving treatment across three hospitals: Central Hospital, Agbor; General Hospital, Owa-Oyibu; and General Hospital, Owa-Alero. The bodies of the deceased were moved to a mortuary, and buses were deployed to assist survivors and injured victims. The Presidency, via its X handle, also confirmed the incident, stating that three passengers died following the derailment of the Warri–Itakpe Train Service and that all passengers had been accounted for. Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration's commitment to the welfare and safety of residents, assuring continued support for those affected.
The Federal Government has issued a directive requiring civil servants in human resource roles across ministries, departments, and agencies to obtain approved professional certifications within a year. This initiative aims to professionalize HR management within the Federal Civil Service. A circular from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation grants a 12-month moratorium for officers to acquire recognized certifications. Failure to comply will result in ineligibility for key personnel management positions. The policy outlines certification requirements, transitional arrangements, and conditions for deploying administrative cadre officers to HR roles. Recognized certifications include those from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, the Society for Human Resource Management, the Human Resource Certification Institute, and Chartered Professionals in Human Resources. During the transition, officers can remain in their current positions or be deployed to HR-related duties if they provide verifiable evidence of enrollment and progress towards certification within six months. After the moratorium, an approved HR certification will be mandatory for deployment to HR roles in various federal institutions. This directive, effective immediately, is part of ongoing reforms to enhance professionalism and efficiency in public service personnel administration, aligning with global best practic