The Federal Government has raised serious concern over the growing link between kidnapping and terrorist financing across the country.

Officials say kidnapping, which many once viewed as a random criminal act, has now grown into a major financial engine for violent groups operating in Nigeria.

This warning was issued on Wednesday in Abuja during a Stakeholders Workshop organised for the Multi-Agency Kidnap Fusion Cell.

The National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, explained that kidnapping has now become one of the most reliable revenue channels for criminal and extremist groups.

He stated that ransom payments have empowered these networks to purchase arms, strengthen their logistics, and sustain coordinated attacks across several regions.

According to him, “As we are all aware, Nigeria continues to grapple with a broad spectrum of security challenges driven by terrorism, banditry, separatist violence, and farmer-herder clashes. A common trend across these threats is the pervasive use of kidnapping.”

Maj. Gen. Laka noted that what used to be a crime of opportunity has now transformed into a sophisticated and lucrative enterprise.

He added that this shift has allowed criminal groups to deepen their influence in rural and semi-urban areas, with some gaining enough resources to challenge state authority.

“What was once an opportunistic crime has become a persistent and destabilising enterprise, enabling these groups to procure logistics, perpetuate terror, and, in some cases, exert territorial control,” he said.

Laka explained that concerns over worsening kidnapping cases prompted Nigeria and the United Kingdom to jointly establish the Multi-Agency Kidnap Fusion Cell housed at the NCTC.

The centre, inaugurated by the National Security Adviser on 19 December 2024, was created to improve intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and rapid response across security agencies.

He highlighted that since it began operations, the Cell has brought together the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement units to track syndicates, disrupt planned abductions, and rescue victims.

He said analysts working within the Cell have successfully produced intelligence that led to arrests, dismantling of kidnap networks, and recovery of hostages in multiple states.

To improve its reach, the NCTC also conducted a nationwide expansion programme in July 2025, involving Anti-Kidnap Commanders of the Nigeria Police Force and operatives of the Department of State Services from all 36 states and the FCT.

However, despite the recorded gains, Laka stressed that the current security environment requires wider collaboration.

He said the anti-kidnap framework can only be fully effective when supported by media organisations, telecom operators, and social media platforms.

Laka urged participants at the workshop to develop practical solutions that can boost rescues, weaken kidnapping rings, and enhance early-warning systems for communities.

He also emphasised the need for constant synergy with the Fusion Cell to support ongoing operations across the country.

Also speaking, the Acting High Commissioner of the British High Commission, Gill Lever, commended the progress recorded by the centre.

She said the UK government is impressed with the impact of the Fusion Cell and remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and kidnapping.

Head of the UK’s National Crime Agency, Chris Gibson, also stressed the need for strong cooperation among all agencies.

He advised Nigerians to continue backing the government’s counter-kidnap initiatives, reminding citizens that “anti-kidnapping is a responsibility of every citizen.”

Kidnapping remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing security threats, with criminal groups increasingly relying on ransom payments to sustain their operations.

The government is banking on stronger intelligence fusion, international partnerships, and a multi-layered response system to curb the menace.

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‎Kechi Okwuchi, a survivor of the Sosoliso plane crash, took to social media to mark the 20th anniversary of the tragic incident.

It would be recalled that the Sosoliso plane crash occurred on December 10, 2005, claiming 107 lives out of the 109 passengers on board.

‎Kechi Okwuchi Marks 20th Anniversary Of Plane Crash

‎In a video posted to her X account, (formerly Twitter), Kechi Okwuchi paid tribute to the passengers who passed away from the crash

According to her, she was 16 when the tragic incident happened and earlier hoped the 20‑year anniversary would be marked in Nigeria, which turned out to be a reality.

‎Recalling the crash, she shared that she held her close friend as the plane was about to crash.

According to her, the aftermath of the tragic incident was rough at first, and it took a prolonged period of time to recover from injuries sustained during the crash.

“20 years have passed, and some of my memories are not only painful or negative anymore. I have had a lost of amazing experiences because I was able to have a second chance at life that most people on that place were not able to” She stated.

Recall that Kechi Okwuchi graduated first‑class in Economics from the University of St. Thomas (Houston) in 2015 and later earned an MBA with distinction.

Notably, she gained widespread recognition after auditioning for the 12th edition of America’s Got Talent show.

Watch video below…

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By Chioma Obinna

The Youth Coalition for Education in Nigeria, YOCEN, has honoured the Principal Manager of Marketing and the Head of Hospital and Institutional Business at Geneith Pharmaceuticals Limited, Pharm. Judith Ngozi Udeh with the 2025 Transformative Leadership Awar: “Amazon of the Societal Development in Nigeria”.
The award, which recognises her outstanding contributions to nation-building, healthcare education, and youth mentorship was presented at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, during the YOCEN Leadership Conference & Impact Award of Commendation.
The Head of Mission and Secretary-General of YOCEN, Engr. Yakubu Nurudeen Yahaya, described the accolade as a celebration of individuals whose dedication to societal development serves as a model for young Nigerians.
“Pharm. Udeh’s advocacy for empathy among healthcare professionals, innovative teaching methods, and community-driven initiatives exemplifies the transformative leadership we seek to inspire. Her work demonstrates how professional excellence can be a powerful vehicle for societal impact,” he said.
The conference also featured a keynote address delivered on behalf of Dr. Stanley Jacob, President of the Fintech Association of Nigeria (FintechNGR), on the critical role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in vocational education.
The keynote stressed that Nigeria must integrate emerging technologies into the educational system to prepare its youth for a rapidly evolving global workforce. “Every day that passes without meaningful AI and digital literacy integration is a lost opportunity for our youth to compete and innovate,” the keynote noted.
Responding, Udeh expressed deep appreciation to YOCEN for valuing her contributions to education, mentorship, and nation-building. She encouraged the organization and its volunteers to remain steadfast, noting that while every planting season comes with challenges, the harvest justifies the effort.
She emphasized that today’s initiatives in mentorship, education, and technological advocacy will ultimately produce a generation of Nigerians who are globally competitive, innovative, and transformative.
Udeh called on government and policymakers to prioritize the integration of ICT and AI into the national curriculum, stressing that while Nigerian youths are hardworking, the emerging era demands smart work enhanced by digital literacy and AI proficiency.
She pledged to collaborate with YOCEN to amplify this message, advocating for AI not as a threat but as a tool to strengthen Nigeria’s resilience, creativity, and capacity for nation-building.
The award also acknowledges her long-standing work in advancing access to essential medicines, healthcare education, scholarships, community development, and advocacy for sustainable national development. YOCEN described her achievements as a benchmark for leadership that bridges professional excellence with social responsibility.
The conference brought together educators, youth leaders, industry professionals, and policymakers, highlighting the collective mission of fostering quality education, technological literacy, and youth empowerment across Nigeria. Pharm. Udeh’s recognition underscores the enduring impact of leadership that inspires, equips, and transforms the next generation to build a smarter, more prosperous Nigeria.

The post From medicines to mentorship: Pharm. Udeh bags YOCEN 2025 Transformative Leadership Award appeared first on Vanguard News.

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The Arewa Youth Forum (AYF) has commended the wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oluremi Tinubu, on her various Renewed Hope Agenda projects across the country, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

This was contained in a statement signed by the National President, Arewa Youth Forum, Ahmed Mohammed Zagi, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Wednesday.

“The AYF, a non-partisan youth organisation dedicated to promoting the socio-economic development of Northern Nigeria, has been closely following the activities of Her Excellency and is extremely impressed by her commitment to empowering women, youth, and vulnerable groups.

“It is on record that Her Excellency’s Renewed Hope Agenda has initiated several remarkable projects, including, empowerment of women and girls. Through various initiatives, Her Excellency has demonstrated her commitment to empowering women and girls, promoting their education, and providing them with economic opportunities.

“For example, her organisation has established vocational training centres for women in Kano and Kaduna states, where they can acquire skills in areas such as tailoring, catering, and hairdressing.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda has also focused on youth development, providing training, mentorship, and economic opportunities for young people across the country.

“For instance, her organisation has launched a youth entrepreneurship program in Lagos and Abuja, which provides young people with seed funding and mentorship to start their own businesses.

“Healthcare and social welfare: Her Excellency’s initiatives have also addressed healthcare and social welfare issues, providing support to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, people living with disabilities, and orphans.

“For example, her organisation has established a free medical outreach program in Borno and Yobe states, which provides medical care to people affected by the insurgency,” the statement said.

The AYF added that it is particularly impressed by Her Excellency’s focus on Northern Nigeria, where her initiatives have made a significant impact.

“Her commitment to empowering women and youth in the region is commendable, and her efforts to address healthcare and social welfare issues are laudable.

“For example, her organisation has established a program to provide education and economic opportunities to out-of-school girls in Northern Nigeria, which has already benefited over 1,000 girls in the region,” it printed out.

The AYF therefore, commended Her Excellency for her tireless efforts to promote the socio-economic development of Nigeria, particularly Northern Nigeria, while using the opportunity to congratulate her for the several Honours bestowed on her recently.

“We appreciate her commitment to empowering women, youth, and vulnerable groups, and we believe that her initiatives will have a lasting impact on the lives of many Nigerians.

“The AYF is willing to support and collaborate with Her Excellency on her Renewed Hope Agenda projects, particularly in Northern Nigeria. We believe that our shared goals and objectives will enable us to make a more significant impact in the lives of young people and vulnerable groups in the region,” it assured.

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE

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…As Construction gulps N49. 7b

The Ekiti Cargo airport, on Wednesday, December 10, begins commercial flights, New Telegraph reports.

This comes as the maiden commercial flight anchored by the United Nigeria Airlines’ UN 0622, landed at Ado-Ekiti from Abuja at exactly 11:00 a.m.

The flight was received by the state governor, Biodun Oyebanji, former governor Segun Oni, members of the State Executive Council and other dignitaries.

The aircraft’s passenger list included prominent Ekiti leaders, such as the Permanent Secretary of the Aviation Ministry, Yakub Adam, former Governors Adeniyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose and Kayode Fayemi, as well as the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele.

A second flight, UN 0623, departed for Lagos at 12:13 p.m., marking the full commencement of scheduled services.

In his remarks, Gov Biodun Oyebanji disclosed that the state had invested N49.7 billion in the construction and development of the cargo airport, describing it “as one of Ekiti’s most significant infrastructure undertakings.”

He noted that “between May 2019 and October 2022, under then, Gov Kayode Fayemi, about N14 billion was spent on compensation, site preparation, runway construction, terminal building, access roads, perimeter fencing and other foundational works.”

Gov Oyebanji emphasised that” the success of the project was made possible by the collective efforts of past leaders” who, he said, “shared a genuine commitment to the progress of Ekiti State.” He also acknowledged the role of Afe Babalola, whose financial contributions helped accelerate the airport’s completion and readiness for full operations.

The governor expressed confidence that the new airport would position the state as a key player in agro-logistics, aviation and regional commerce, opening up vast opportunities for investment and development across Ekiti and beyond.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also described the Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport as “a shining symbol of Nigeria’s aviation development,” noting that “its take-off into commercial operations marks a new chapter for the industry.”

Keyamo, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Yakubu Adam, said the commencement of flights at the facility is a historic milestone for Ekiti and the nation at large.

He added that the airport reflects “the beauty and promise of Ekiti,” as well as the Federal Government’s renewed hope agenda under President Bola Tinubu.

According to him, “the project demonstrates the administration’s commitment to job creation and sustainable economic growth, especially for states seeking to diversify their economies through aviation and agro-logistics.”

The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, who led the federal delegation of lawmakers from the state to the event, lauded Gov Oyebanji for uniting past governors toward the common goal of Ekiti’s development, adding that “the airport would catalyse new opportunities across the state and strengthen its economic prospects.”

Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, also commended Oyebanji for his perseverance in ensuring the airport’s operational readiness.

Babalola, who was represented by the ABUAD Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, reaffirmed his commitment to the state and advocated for “the establishment of a railway line from Osogbo to Ado-Ekiti and onward to Onitsha to enhance safer and more affordable transportation of goods and passengers.”

Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, appreciated the state government for creating a conducive environment for airlines to operate.

He assured residents of “the airline’s unwavering commitment to safety” and announced that “more routes would soon be added to broaden connectivity.”

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Former Anambra State governor and immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, has been arrested in Abuja and is currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The development was confirmed on Wednesday night in a statement signed by his former media aide, Fred Chukwulobe, and obtained by Akelicious. Chukwulobe dismissed viral rumours suggesting that Ngige had been k+dnapped.

He stated, “Former Governor of Anambra State and immediate past minister of labour and employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, is with the EFCC. More details later.”

Ngige made headlines recently after armed men attacked his convoy in Anambra State, although he was not inside the vehicle at the time of the incident

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A former Anambra State governor and Labour Minister, Dr. Chris Ngige, has reportedly been arrested in Abuja.

The former governor was arrested by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

This was confirmed in a statement on Wednesday night and signed by his former media aide, Fred Chukwulobe.

He dismissed rumours that the former Minister, who served in the Muhammadu Buhari administration, was kidnapped by unknown gunmen.

He said, “Former Governor of Anambra State and immediate past minister of labour and employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, is with the EFCC. More details later.”

Recall that Ngige was recently in the news after his convoy was attacked by armed men in Anambra State. He was not present in the vehicle at the time of the attack

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The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, said the party is on a mission to reclaim Nigeria from the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government.

Turaki, who was addressing the Forum of PDP State Chairmen, regretted that instead of moving the country forward since 2015 when it took over, the APC “is taking us retrogressively.”

“Nigerians are living witnesses that the achievements, the progress that had been made in the 16 years of PDP’s glorious years have either been destroyed, or shattered, or reversed.

“And that is why today, whenever Nigerians speak, they beg, they plead: ‘if you can’t take us anywhere further, please take us back to where we were in 2015.’”

He, however, assured Nigerians “that we have listened to you. We are not taking you back to 2015 when we left. We will take over power by the special grace of God in 2027.

“And thereafter, we will begin the journey to taking Nigeria and Nigerians to the promised land. It’s possible, it’s doable, we’ve done it before, and we’re going to do it again.”

Turaki told the state chairmen that the meeting was not just for housekeeping, but an opportunity to interface with them and to get a first-hand report of the state of the party in their various states.

The National Chairman stated that the success of the new National Working Committee (NWC) is contingent upon the amount of understanding and support it gets from the Forum of State Chairmen.

“And that is why, very early in the day, we’ve invited you to discuss with you, not only to discuss the handover note by the immediate past leadership of this party, but to lay before you our programme of action and then seek your guidance, seek your views, seek your comments, even your criticisms, because you are the ones that are in the field.

“You stand in a better position to advise us, to guide us on what the expectations of Nigerians are from us; you are in a better position to advise us what the feelings and thinking of Nigerians, especially members of our party, are,” he stated.

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The Police Command in Anambra State has arrested a robbery suspect allegedly linked to the murder of the late Anambra House of Assembly member, Justice Azuka of the Labour Party (LP).

Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson in Anambra, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Awka.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Mr Azuka, who represented Onitsha 1 North Constituency, was kidnapped along Ugwunaobakpa Road, Inland Town, Onitsha, on 24 December 2024, on his way home for Christmas.

His corpse was later discovered on 6 February in the bush of the Second Niger Bridge in the state.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said that the command, through operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, arrested the suspect, who was heavily injured during a major offensive operation in the Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state on 8 December.

“The suspect, a 26-year-old male, is a dangerous criminal with a long history of violent offences.

“He was apprehended in Iyowa Odekpe, Ogbaru LGA, after a fierce confrontation with the police operatives,” he said.

Mr Ikenga said that during the operation, one locally made Beretta pistol and eleven live ammunition were recovered.

He explained that the suspect, known for his violent criminal activities, was found to have a large tattoo on his body with the inscriptions “No Forgiveness” and “No Mercy.”

According to Mr Ikenga, the tattoo is a disturbing reminder of the hardened nature of his criminal mindset.

The police spokesperson said that upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to being the leader of several criminal gangs operating across the state and neighbouring states.

READ ALSO: Gunmen attack church in Anambra, kill pastor’s wife, raze house, vehicles

“He revealed his involvement in the abduction and subsequent murder of Azuka, a member of the Anambra House of Assembly, on 24 December.

“The murder of Hon. Justice Azuka shocked the state and drew widespread condemnation,” he said.

Mr Ikenga said that the arrest of the suspect represents a significant breakthrough in the state’s war against violent crime.

He also said that the arrest would help in further investigations to dismantle criminal syndicates operating within the state.

The command urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the continued fight against crime.

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December 10, 2025December 10, 2025

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Our Reporter

The United Towns Agency for North South Cooperation (UTA), a United Nations affiliated international non-governmental organization dedicated to sustainable development, education, and community empowerment, is proud to announce the opening of its Benue State coordinating office.

This was announced by the Country President of UTA, Amb. Abigail Amalaha during the official handover of letter of Authority to the Benue state coordinator, Mr Shaala Ukaa. The event took place on Tuesday, 9th of December 2025 at the corporate office of UTA in Abuja.

With the mandate, Mr Ukaa will oversee and coordinate the affairs of the organisation in the state in line with the objectives of the international NGO.

While presenting the letter, the Country President urged the Coordinator to take advantage of his experience as a grassroots person to bring succour to the people of Benue state, especially the rural dwellers who have been victims of incessant banditry attack and insecurity.

Amalaha further stated that this strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in UTA mission to foster inclusive growth and grassroots impact across the country.

According to the Country-President, “We are thrilled to bring UTA vision and values to Benue State. This new office reflects our long-term commitment to working hand-in-hand with communities to create sustainable change, especially in areas where our support can unlock untapped potentials.

Benue State, known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” offers a fertile ground for UTA’s agricultural innovation and rural development initiatives’’.

In his response, the state coordinator affirmed his commitment to the novel initiatives and humanitarian activities of UTA. He explained that the state office will soon roll out programs and activities that will support small holder farmers, promote climate-smart agriculture, and enhance food security, while also investing in education and vocational training for youth and women.

The new office will serve as the state hub for UTA programs in agriculture, youth empowerment, education, and health, with a strong focus on community-led development and capacity building.

By establishing a permanent presence in Benue State, UTA aims to deepen its partnerships with local stakeholders, government agencies, and civil society organizations to deliver tailored solutions that address the unique challenges and opportunities within the region.

The date for the official inauguration of the state office will be announced soon. The event will witness the presence of prominent sons and daughters of Benue state, friends of the state, traditional leaders, development partners, and members of the press. The event will also feature cultural performance and roundtable discussion on collaborative development strategies for the state.

With this expansion, UTA reaffirms its dedication to empowering communities, amplifying local voices, and building a more equitable future for all.

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