ICTv24

11/05/2026

DEFENCE CLARIFICATION ABOUT CLAIMS OF CIVILIANS CASUALITIES IN SHIRORO AERIAL INTERDICTION OPERATION

In line with the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s (AFN) mandate to conduct operations to rout out all forms of insecurity in the country, on 9 May 2026, intelligence reports indicated the convergence of armed bandits at Lukupe Village in Shiroro LGA. Subsequently, on the 10 May 2026 between the hours of 1159pm to 6am, the Nigerian Army UAV Command acting on intelligence conducted multiple air strikes on different bandits locations including Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu and Kuduru Villages all in Shiroro LGA of Niger State. Further reports from local sources confirmed that the aerial interdiction was precise on target at Kusasu, Katerma and Bokko. See video footage. It was gathered that about Seventy (70) bandits were hit and killed in Kusasu. Others were sighted gathering the remains of their colleagues for burial while others on about 200 motorcycles moved towards Zango. Another group from Bokko were also seen advancing towards Zango apparently to meet their colleagues and perfect their next plan of either retreating or attacking Sarkin Pawa or the government/security infrastructure in Kuchi. Meanwhile, another group were also seen converging at Kopa, East of Mongoro, suggesting a possible plan to attack government/security infrastructure in Mongoro. The military took necessary steps to neutralise all these threats in a timely manner.

The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify reports circulating in certain quarters alleging that civilians were killed in the aerial interdiction strike conducted in the early hours of Sunday, 10 May 2026, across Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu, and Kuduru villages in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The operations were meticulously planned and executed based on credible, actionable intelligence confirming the convergence of terrorists at those specific locations. Contrary to the narrative being circulated, the strikes were precisely targeted at identified terrorist enclaves and achieved their intended military objectives, neutralizing approximately seventy armed bandits in Kusasu alone. These are armed groups who had been tracked and confirmed as hostile elements actively planning attacks on civilian communities and military assets in the area.

It is particularly instructive that, well ahead of the aerial interdiction, all local civilian communities within the general area had, out of an abundance of caution, voluntarily relocated to Sarkin Pawa for their safety. This fact alone fundamentally undermines the claim that innocent residents were present in the strike zones at the time of the operation. Post-strike intelligence assessments and verified reports from local sources further confirmed that the aerial interdiction was precise on target, with terrorists subsequently observed gathering the remains of their fallen colleagues for burial, while others, numbering over 200 and mounted on motorcycles, were sighted retreating in the direction of Zango. These are not the movements of a civilian population; they are the signature of a degraded but still mobile criminal force. Nonetheless, relevant military formations have been directed to verify the allegations of civilian casualties, if any.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to the protection of all law-abiding citizens and conducts all operations in strict accordance with the rules of engagement and applicable laws. The Defence Headquarters urges the media and the public to exercise restraint and avoid amplifying unverified accounts that serve no purpose other than to embolden criminal elements, undermine troop morale, and erode public confidence in ongoing security operations. Individuals peddling unsubstantiated claims of civilian casualties without offering any credible evidence and without seeking official military response prior to publication risk becoming unwitting instruments of terrorist propaganda. Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to pursue and neutralize all threats to national security with the precision, professionalism, and resolve that the defence of Nigeria demands.

God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Signed
MICHAEL ONOJA
Major General
Director Defence Media Operations
10 May 2026

11/05/2026

11/05/2026

PRESS RELEASE

Zulum Appoints Prof. Bukar Usman as Pioneer Chairman of Zakkat, Waqf Commission, Names New Secondary Education Board Member

Borno State Governor, Professor @⁨Prof Zulum 4⁩, has approved the appointment of Prof. Bukar Muhammad Usman as the pioneer Executive Chairman of the newly established Zakkat and Waqf Collection and Distribution Commission.

The Commission, which became operational in 2025 following the passage of its enabling law by the State Assembly and the Governor's subsequent assent, is mandated to oversee the collection, administration, and equitable distribution of Zakkat and Waqf across the state.

The appointment of the Executive Chairman is in accordance with the powers conferred on the Governor under Section 4 (1) and (2) of the Commission’s Law, 2025.

Prof. Bukar Muhammad Usman, a Professor of Arabic Literature and a distinguished Islamic scholar, brings to the role expertise in Islamic jurisprudence and academic leadership.

He began his academic career at the Nigerian Arabic Language Village, Gamboru Ngala, where he served as a lecturer from 2006 to 2018. Following the completion of his Ph.D., he joined the Department of Arabic at Yobe State University, where he currently holds the rank of professor.

Before his appointment, Prof. Bukar served as Head of the Department of Arabic at Yobe State University and was a member of both the university's Senate and Council. He also served on the editorial board of Al-Nur Journal, a scholarly publication of the Department of Arabic.

He participated in numerous seminars, workshops, and conferences both nationally and internationally. He has published several scholarly papers in reputable local and international journals and also supervised many Master’s and Ph.D. theses across various institutions.

In a related development, Governor Zulum has also approved the appointment of Malam Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad as a member of Borno State Senior Secondary Education Board, representing Southern Borno.

The appointment follows the demise of Alhaji Ibrahim Sarki in January 2026 and is in line with the provisions of Section 4 (1)(a) of the Borno State Senior Secondary Education Board (Amendment) Law, 2024.

Until his appointment, Malam Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad was a lecturer at the College of Education, Gashua, and holds a Master’s degree in Fundamentals of Religion.

Governor Zulum congratulated the appointees and urged them to deploy their experience, integrity, and commitment toward strengthening their respective institutions.

Both appointments are for an initial term of four years and are subject to confirmation by the Borno State House of Assembly.

@⁨Dauda Iliya FRCN NUJ Chair 2022 2⁩
Special Adviser to Borno State Governor
Media/SpokespersonPRESS RELEASE

Zulum Appoints Prof. Bukar Usman as Pioneer Chairman of Zakkat, Waqf Commission, Names New Secondary Education Board Member

Borno State Governor, Professor @⁨Prof Zulum 4⁩, has approved the appointment of Prof. Bukar Muhammad Usman as the pioneer Executive Chairman of the newly established Zakkat and Waqf Collection and Distribution Commission.

The Commission, which became operational in 2025 following the passage of its enabling law by the State Assembly and the Governor's subsequent assent, is mandated to oversee the collection, administration, and equitable distribution of Zakkat and Waqf across the state.

The appointment of the Executive Chairman is in accordance with the powers conferred on the Governor under Section 4 (1) and (2) of the Commission’s Law, 2025.

Prof. Bukar Muhammad Usman, a Professor of Arabic Literature and a distinguished Islamic scholar, brings to the role expertise in Islamic jurisprudence and academic leadership.

He began his academic career at the Nigerian Arabic Language Village, Gamboru Ngala, where he served as a lecturer from 2006 to 2018. Following the completion of his Ph.D., he joined the Department of Arabic at Yobe State University, where he currently holds the rank of professor.

Before his appointment, Prof. Bukar served as Head of the Department of Arabic at Yobe State University and was a member of both the university's Senate and Council. He also served on the editorial board of Al-Nur Journal, a scholarly publication of the Department of Arabic.

He participated in numerous seminars, workshops, and conferences both nationally and internationally. He has published several scholarly papers in reputable local and international journals and also supervised many Master’s and Ph.D. theses across various institutions.

In a related development, Governor Zulum has also approved the appointment of Malam Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad as a member of Borno State Senior Secondary Education Board, representing Southern Borno.

The appointment follows the demise of Alhaji Ibrahim Sarki in January 2026 and is in line with the provisions of Section 4 (1)(a) of the Borno State Senior Secondary Education Board (Amendment) Law, 2024.

Until his appointment, Malam Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad was a lecturer at the College of Education, Gashua, and holds a Master’s degree in Fundamentals of Religion.

Governor Zulum congratulated the appointees and urged them to deploy their experience, integrity, and commitment toward strengthening their respective institutions.

Both appointments are for an initial term of four years and are subject to confirmation by the Borno State House of Assembly.

@⁨Dauda Iliya FRCN NUJ Chair 2022 2⁩
Special Adviser to Borno State Governor
Media/Spokesperson

11/05/2026

Breaking: The All Progressives Congress in Borno State is set to commence the screening exercise for aspirants seeking to contest for seats in the State House of Assembly ahead of the forthcoming elections.

This follows the arrival of members of the party’s Screening and Appeal Committee from the party’s National Headquarters in Abuja to oversee the exercise in the state.

According to party officials, the screening process is scheduled to officially begin today Monday, 11th May 2025, at the APC State Secretariat in Maiduguri.

The exercise is expected to provide an opportunity for the party to assess the qualifications, eligibility, and readiness of all aspirants vying for the various State Assembly positions across Borno State.

Party stakeholders and supporters have been urged to maintain orderliness and cooperate with the committee throughout the screening process as the APC continues preparations for the upcoming electoral activities in the state.

11/05/2026

Gov. Lawal Commends Troops Over Successful Operations Against Bandits in Zamfara

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has commended troops of the Joint Task Force (North West) Operation Fansan Yamma for recording significant operational successes against armed bandits across parts of the state.

The governor gave the commendation following a series of coordinated military operations conducted in Kaura Namoda, Birnin Magaji and Shinkafi Local Government Areas of the state.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor described the renewed military offensive as timely and strategic in disrupting activities of terrorist groups operating within Zamfara and neighbouring states.

According to the statement, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma launched coordinated offensives in the early hours of May 7 in Kaura Namoda and Birnin Magaji LGAs, leading to the neutralisation of three bandit kingpins.

The troops also recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including one AK-47 rifle, one machine gun, one locally fabricated pistol, seven rifle magazines and 571 rounds of ammunition.

The statement further disclosed that troops achieved another major breakthrough on May 10 following intelligence reports indicating that several notorious terrorist commanders had gathered at a hideout in Tumfa village, Shinkafi LGA, to coordinate attacks on communities within the state.

According to the governor, the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma carried out a precision airstrike on the identified location, destroying the structure used as the terrorists’ meeting point and disrupting the planned attacks.

Lawal said the sustained operations have demonstrated the commitment and resilience of security forces in tackling insecurity across the North-West region.

He reiterated the Zamfara State Government’s continued support for the military and other security agencies through the provision of logistics and operational assistance aimed at restoring lasting peace in the state.

The governor also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence to aid ongoing operations against criminal elements.

11/05/2026

PRESS RELEASE

Zulum Appoints Prof. Bukar Usman as Pioneer Chairman of Zakkat, Waqf Commission, Names New Secondary Education Board Member

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the appointment of Prof. Bukar Muhammad Usman as the pioneer Executive Chairman of the newly established Zakkat and Waqf Collection and Distribution Commission.

The Commission, which became operational in 2025 following the passage of its enabling law by the State Assembly and the Governor's subsequent assent, is mandated to oversee the collection, administration, and equitable distribution of Zakkat and Waqf across the state.

The appointment of the Executive Chairman is in accordance with the powers conferred on the Governor under Section 4 (1) and (2) of the Commission’s Law, 2025.

Prof. Bukar Muhammad Usman, a Professor of Arabic Literature and a distinguished Islamic scholar, brings to the role expertise in Islamic jurisprudence and academic leadership.

He began his academic career at the Nigerian Arabic Language Village, Gamboru Ngala, where he served as a lecturer from 2006 to 2018. Following the completion of his Ph.D., he joined the Department of Arabic at Yobe State University, where he currently holds the rank of professor.

Before his appointment, Prof. Bukar served as Head of the Department of Arabic at Yobe State University and was a member of both the university's Senate and Council. He also served on the editorial board of Al-Nur Journal, a scholarly publication of the Department of Arabic.

He participated in numerous seminars, workshops, and conferences both nationally and internationally. He has published several scholarly papers in reputable local and international journals and also supervised many Master’s and Ph.D. theses across various institutions.

In a related development, Governor Zulum has also approved the appointment of Malam Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad as a member of Borno State Senior Secondary Education Board, representing Southern Borno.

The appointment follows the demise of Alhaji Ibrahim Sarki in January 2026 and is in line with the provisions of Section 4 (1)(a) of the Borno State Senior Secondary Education Board (Amendment) Law, 2024.

Until his appointment, Malam Muhammad Ibrahim Muhammad was a lecturer at the College of Education, Gashua, and holds a Master’s degree in Fundamentals of Religion.

Governor Zulum congratulated the appointees and urged them to deploy their experience, integrity, and commitment toward strengthening their respective institutions.

Both appointments are for an initial term of four years and are subject to confirmation by the Borno State House of Assembly.

Dauda Iliya
Special Adviser to Borno State Governor
Media/Spokesperson

11/05/2026

Killing of Fulani Youths by Berom Militants Triggers Immediate Counter-Attack in Barkin Ladi, Leaves Three Dead so Far

Killing of a Fulani youth by suspected Berom militants in Rakum community of Plateau State has triggered an immediate counter-attack in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, resulting in the death of two Berom natives, security sources have said.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) responded at about 4:05 p.m. on May 9 following a distress call indicating a violent clash between Fulani and Berom youths in Rakum.

On arrival, troops confirmed that a Fulani youth had been killed during the initial confrontation involving suspected Berom youths.

However, the situation reportedly escalated when Fulani youths mobilised and moved into Sabon Layi, where they allegedly opened fire in a reprisal attack, killing two innocent Berom natives.

Security personnel were immediately deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation, while efforts commenced to engage community leaders to calm tensions in the affected areas.

In several parts of Plateau State, especially in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bassa and Mangu LGAs, recurring incidents of targeted killings have continued to fuel a cycle of violent reprisals and counter-reprisals between armed groups from farming and pastoral communities.

Security reports indicate that suspected Berom militant elements, alongside other armed youth groups, have been linked to isolated attacks, ambushes and killings in some rural settlements, often triggering immediate retaliation from opposing groups. These incidents frequently escalate within hours, with each side launching reprisal attacks in nearby communities, thereby widening the theatre of violence.

10/05/2026

Zulum elated by Tinubu’s approval of 3 federal institutions for Borno in 3 years
. Says Borno will reciprocate the gesture in 2027

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving three major federal institutions for the state within three years of assuming office.

Zulum made the commendation on Sunday in Bama, shortly after a sympathy visit to residents affected by a devastating windstorm that struck part of the town last week.

Zulum specifically noted that since President Tinubu took office, he has approved the take-off of three vital federal institutions, including the Federal College of Education, Gwoza; the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare; and the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama.

He expressed delight that the institutions would directly transform the lives of the people of Borno through job creation, improved access to quality education, and specialised healthcare delivery.

Zulum commended President Tinubu for his sustained attention to Borno’s recovery and development needs, noting that the three federal institutions would significantly accelerate post-insurgency reconstruction and economic revitalisation.

“I want to draw your attention to the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama, by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, just two days ago.

“The pioneer principal officers were appointed. This is a remarkable achievement, and we want to hail the President for what he has done.”

“The take-off of the Federal College of Education, Gwoza, and the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare, was achieved under the administration of President Tinubu; therefore, I want to commend him and assure him that the people of Borno State will reciprocate the kind gesture at the appropriate time.”

Zulum had last year announced the handover of Umar Ibn Ibrahim El-Kanemi College of Education, Science, and Technology, Bama, for the immediate commencement of academic activities at the newly established Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama. The Governor also approved one billion naira for the immediate take-off of the University.

The Governor has consistently offered similar support to the Federal Polytechnic, Monguno; Federal College of Education, Gwoza; and National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare, approving over N5 billion to facilitate a seamless take-off.

The Governor also inspected ongoing construction work for the 19 Brigade headquarters in Bama, underscoring his administration’s determination to consolidate security gains and restore full civil authority around the Bama general area.

10/05/2026

Nigeria: The MIHU Festival is an annual, culturally significant celebration held by the Jenjo people in the Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria. Held around early May (May 2, 2026), it showcases traditional music, DANCES Etc

09/05/2026

Over 958 insurgents, families surrender to troops in 2026 – Theatre Commander

Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, the Theatre Commander, North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, says no fewer than 958 insurgents and their family members have surrendered to troops across the region in 2026.

The Theatre Commander disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists in Maiduguri.

He said the figure formed part of a sustained trend of mass surrenders recorded since 2021, with a cumulative total of 152,864 insurgents and their families laying down arms.

According to him, out of the cumulative number, 20,815 are active male fighters, 37,095 are women, while 64,114 are children.

“The steady increase in surrenders is a direct result of sustained military pressure, degradation of terrorist capabilities, and effective non-kinetic measures,” he said.

The commander noted that many of those who surrendered cited operational pressure from troops, collapse of their command structures, and worsening living conditions within insurgent enclaves as reasons for their decision.

He added that all surrendered individuals undergo detailed screening and debriefing processes to generate intelligence for ongoing operations.

“Information obtained from the debriefing of these individuals has significantly enhanced our operational planning and contributed to recent successes in the theatre,” he said.

The Theatre Commander also highlighted the role of the Borno State Government’s deradicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration initiative, popularly known as the “Borno Model,” in encouraging more fighters to surrender.

According to him, the programme, implemented in collaboration with local and international partners, provides a structured pathway for repentant insurgents to disengage from violence and reintegrate into society.

“This initiative, which emphasises dialogue and community engagement, has continued to serve as a catalyst for the ongoing surrender of insurgents and their families,” he said.

He further noted that collaboration with community leaders and humanitarian organisations had helped build trust and confidence among those willing to lay down their arms.

The commander stressed that the combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies remained critical in weakening insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and their affiliates.

He, however, cautioned that despite the encouraging trend, sustained efforts were required to prevent relapse and consolidate gains achieved so far.

“The fight is not over. We must sustain pressure on the remaining elements while strengthening stabilisation and reintegration efforts,” he said.

The Theatre Commander reaffirmed the commitment of troops under Operation Hadin Kai to restoring lasting peace and security in the North-East.

He added that continued collaboration among security agencies, government institutions and development partners would be essential in achieving enduring stability in the region.

08/05/2026

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By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri

MAIDUGURI — The Network of Civil Society Organizations in Borno State (NECSOB) has formally ushered in a new era of leadership following the inauguration of its newly elected executive members, with Comrade Bulama Abiso officially handing over the reins to the incoming Executive Director, Abubakar Abdullahi Suleiman.

In a goodwill statement issued shortly after the ceremony, the immediate past Executive Director expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting him the strength, wisdom, and good health to complete his tenure at the helm of the umbrella body of civil society organisations in the state.

"Yesterday marked another significant milestone in our journey," Abiso said. "We held the inauguration ceremony for the newly elected executive members, and I formally handed over leadership to my successor and his team. Serving NECSOB has been a remarkable experience defined by learning, collaboration, advocacy, and collective impact."

Reflecting on his time in office, Abiso noted that his administration worked consistently to amplify the voice of civil society in Borno State. Key priorities, he said, included the promotion of localisation, humanitarian coordination, peacebuilding, capacity strengthening, and constructive engagement with government, development partners, international non-governmental organisations (INGOs), United Nations agencies, as well as traditional and religious institutions.

He further disclosed that, under his leadership, NECSOB extended technical support to numerous civil society organisations through targeted training programmes, networking platforms, policy engagements, and representation at both national and international forums.

The outgoing Executive Director acknowledged that the milestones recorded during his tenure were the product of collective effort. "These achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support, dedication, and sacrifices of our members, partners, friends, and stakeholders," he stated. "I sincerely appreciate every organisation and individual who stood with us throughout this journey."

Abiso paid special tribute to the dignitaries who graced the inauguration, singling out the Guest Speaker, Dr. Hussaini Abdu, Country Director of CARE International, who travelled from Abuja to deliver what he described as a thought-provoking and inspiring keynote address that enriched the occasion.

He also extended appreciation to Dr. Mairo Mandara, who served as the Special Guest of Honour; the Right Honourable Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, represented by the Clerk of the House; and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), represented by Alhaji Abba Musa.

"Your presence and goodwill demonstrated a clear commitment to strengthening civil society and advancing development efforts in our state," he remarked.

Extending his message of appreciation more broadly, Abiso thanked the network's members, elders, colleagues, volunteers, partners, government institutions, humanitarian actors, media organisations, and supporters for the trust, cooperation, and encouragement extended to him throughout his tenure.

As he formally bowed out, the immediate past Executive Director said he remained proud of the strides made under his watch and expressed confidence that NECSOB would continue to grow from strength to strength. He wished the incoming leadership, under Abubakar Abdullahi Suleiman, a peaceful, productive, and successful tenure.

"May Allah guide the new executives and grant them the wisdom to steer the network to greater heights," he prayed. "I thank everyone once again, and may Allah continue to bless NECSOB, Borno State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.