Next Wave Media

26/07/2025

FCT POLICE ARREST SUSPECTED ONE-CHANCE SYNDICATE BEHIND KILLING OF GRACE GODWIN ALEWA

26th July, 2025 | 9:30 PM

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a notorious “one-chance” robbery syndicate allegedly responsible for the abduction and killing of Miss Grace Godwin Alewa, a 23-year-old woman whose lifeless body was discovered along Abubakar Street, Alex Ekwueme District, Jabi.

The tragic incident occurred on Friday, July 11, when Grace, a petrol station attendant working in Abuja, boarded a commercial vehicle on her way home from work, unaware that it was operated by kidnappers posing as transporters.

Grace, who hailed from Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, was reportedly abducted and dispossessed of her belongings.

The kidnappers subsequently contacted her family, demanding a ransom of N1 million for her release.

It remains unclear whether the ransom was paid or negotiations were still ongoing, but Grace was eventually killed and her body dumped by the roadside in Jabi. She was found the following morning at about 6:00 a.m., and though rushed to a nearby hospital by the police, she was pronounced dead on arrival.

The case drew public outrage, particularly after misleading social media narratives suggested she had been involved in a transactional relationship, claims which were debunked by her family and colleagues who insisted she was a hardworking young woman returning from work.

Following the incident, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, ordered a tactical manhunt and charged operatives to intensify efforts to apprehend criminal gangs operating “one-chance” vehicles in the capital.

Acting on the directive, the Scorpion Squad, led by ACP Victor Godfrey, conducted a series of intelligence-driven raids between July 12 and 26, which culminated in the arrest of three suspects: Sunday Uduma a.k.a. Akidi, 39, from Ohafia LGA, Abia State, Godwin Eze, 39, from Cross River State, Nnaiji Ikenna, 33, from Imo State.

Police sources told Zagazola that the arrests were made through “actionable reconstructive digital intelligence,” and that the suspects have made useful confessional statements linking them to the crime.

The black Mazda 323 vehicle allegedly used in the kidnapping and subsequent killing of the victim has also been recovered.

Further investigations revealed that one of the suspects, Sunday Uduma, had previously been arrested on February 11, 2024, for a similar one-chance robbery case and was remanded at Keffi Correctional Facility. It remains unclear how he regained freedom and resumed criminal activities.

The police added that the suspects are currently in custody and are expected to face prosecution upon conclusion of investigations.


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26/07/2025

*TROOPS OF OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA NEUTRALIZE NOTORIOUS TERRORIST KINGPINS*
…Recover Weapons and Motorcycle in Successful Ambush

Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) recorded another major success on 25 July 2025 with the neutralization of three notorious terrorist kingpins during a deliberate ambush operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area(LGA) of Sokoto State.

The ambush was conducted between Mallamawa and Mazau villages in Tsamaye/Mai Lalle District of Sabon Birni LGA. The operation led to the troops neutralising terrorist kingpins Kachalla Nagomma, Gurmu, and Ali Yar Daribiyar with three AK-47 rifles with magazines and a motorcycle recovered.

The criminals and their foot soldiers were reportedly in the area to collect ransom and levies imposed on the locals when they were intercepted. The successful operation has sparked widespread relief and jubilation among residents of Mai Lalle, Tsamaye, Rimaye, and proximate communities across Sabon Birni and Goronyo LGAs, who have long endured the atrocities of the neutralized terrorists.

Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains steadfast in its mission to restore peace and security across the North West and parts of the North Central region. The Joint Task Force urges the public to continue providing timely and actionable information to support ongoing operations.

*DAVID ADEWUSI*
Captain
Media Information Officer
Operation FANSAN YAMMA
26 July 2025

26/07/2025

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

FCT MINISTER STRESSES ON GIVING BACK TO ALMA MATER, AS HE BAGS HONORARY DOCTOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT
... COMMISSIONS NEW UNIPORT CONVOCATION ARENA, NAMED IN HIS HONOUR



The FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has stressed the importance of giving back to alma mater, saying that, “they helped shape the persons we have become”.

The Minister made the emphasis in his acceptance speech after being conferred with an honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) Honoris Causa in Political Science, degree, by his Alma mater - the University of Port Harcourt at the 35th convocation and 50th anniversary of the University on Saturday, July 26, 2025 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Reiterating his firm belief that alumni should consistently give back to their alma mater as a mark of gratitude, the FCT Minister also detailed his extensive contributions to UNIPORT, including the establishment of a Faculty of Law and the construction of its building named after Nwobidike Nwanodi, adding that he also oversaw the construction of a separate Faculty of Social Sciences building, named after Professor Claude Ake, and a state-of-the-art convocation arena.



Barrister Wike also highlighted his significant investments in Rivers State University, where he bagged his law degree, stressing that his contributions range from building a post-graduate hostel as Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area to numerous infrastructural developments as Governor, including the completion of facilities for various faculties and the construction of new campus sites.



Furthermore, he outlined his commitment to the legal profession, citing the construction of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Rivers State branch building, his contribution to the NBA National Secretariat, and the implementation of a robust judicial welfare scheme for judges in Rivers State. He also mentioned his efforts in constructing a magnificent Body of Benchers building in Abuja and contributing to the development of the Nigerian Law School campuses in Yenagoa and Port Harcourt, adding that he is also overseeing the construction of an annex for the Body of Benchers and new residential buildings for various courts in Abuja, as the current FCT Minister.



"I have taken time to enumerate these achievements... not for self-aggrandisement but to demonstrate that it is truly good to give back to the institutions that formed, guided and prepared us for the successes we have recorded in society", Barrister Wike explained.

He challenged other alumni to emulate the spirit of giving back, urging UNIPORT to demand accountability from those who have benefited immensely from the institution but have not reciprocated.

Barrister Wike who shared the stage with the wife of the President, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, Adamawa state Governor, Umaru Fintiri and former Speaker of the house of Representatives, Alhaji Bello Masari, also recipients of honourary of Doctor of Science degree, acknowledged the pivotal role UNIPORT played in shaping his career and character, stating that the higher institution provided him the rich and concrete intellectual foundation upon which his socio-economic and political ascendancy have been fittingly predicated.

He said, “I was educated both in character and learning. I had the good fortune and privilege of interacting with some of the best professors in the world".

Barrister Wike, thereafter, expressed his deep appreciation to the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) for conferring upon him the degree, while equally thanking the university for naming the convocation arena in his honour.

The Minister, who reiterated his commitment to educational development and national progress, described the honour as pre-eminent and gratifying, stressing that he and his entire family were immensely grateful for the kind gesture.

According to the FCT Minister, "I am profoundly delighted and deeply grateful for the honor done me by the University of Port Harcourt, having found me worthy of conferment of the degree of D.Sc. (Honoris Causa) in Political Science and the designation of the convocation arena after my humble self.

"I must place on record that my wife and entire family hold this honour as pre-eminent and totally gratifying. Our gratitude knows no bounds".

He then announced his intention to endow a Chair on Family and Child Law in honour of his wife and another Chair on Leadership and Public Administration in his honour at UNIPORT.

Barrister Wike used the opportunity to call on all Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration and his Renewed Hope Agenda, specifically lauding the establishment of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and the President's swift approval for land in Abuja for UNIPORT's proposed Centre for Leadership and Democratic Studies.

The FCT Minister acknowledged the initial challenges faced by the current administration and expressed confidence in the ongoing positive transformations, noting improvements in fuel prices and the rejuvenation of agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

He called for unity and vigilance against "purveyors of lies, hate and division who seek to destroy our country," urging citizens to reject those driven by self-interest and a history of undermining national progress.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Owunari Georgewill thanked the Federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its enduring commitment to re-fertilizing tertiary education across the country, including Uniport, which, he said, “speaks to our core values of equity and access to education”.

Speaking earlier, the Prochancellor, Senator Mao Ohuabuwa, specially thanked the federal government for ensuring that the institution benefits from the Rural Electrification Agency Solar light project. He stressed that the solar light project has resolved the power supply challenge that had plagued the university.

Highlight of the day was the luncheon organized by family and friends in honour of the FCT Minister and the Adamawa State Governor, with guests treated to various cultural dances, a variety of dishes, and a display of unique dance steps from both celebrants.

RABI MUSA UMAR

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR PRESS

(OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER)

26/07/2025

FCTA/ODP/PR/726

26/07/2025

Debunking False Claims: Nigerian Army Affirms Timely Promotions and Robust Welfare Under COAS Oluyede

The Nigerian Army notes with serious concern a misleading and malicious article published by Sahara Reporters on July 26, 2025. This publication falsely claims that Nigerian Army personnel are complaining about delayed promotions and stagnant pay under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.

Promotions Guided by Merit and Clear Regulations.

Contrary to the falsehood peddled by Sahara Reporters, promotions within the Nigerian Army are strictly guided by established procedures, merit, and the availability of vacancies. These are all clearly outlined in the **Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen 2024**. Specifically, Paragraph 04.01 of HTACOS states that promotion is granted in recognition of hard work, professionalism, and efficiency. Every promotion is subject to stringent conditions, including performance reports, completion of required courses, medical fitness, service duration, and recommendation by a duly constituted Promotion Board.

Furthermore, Paragraphs 04.02 and 04.04 of HTACOS Soldiers provide detailed timelines and criteria for promotion across all ranks, from Private to Army Warrant Officer. These regulations are transparent, well-structured, and consistent with global military best practices. Every service personnel is aware of these provisions and guidelines. No soldier can bypass these processes, and any change in timeline is strictly tied to these professional standards, not arbitrary decisions or personal discretion, as erroneously suggested by the publication.

COAS Oluyede's Unwavering Commitment to Personnel Welfare.

It's crucial to state that the current Army leadership, under Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the welfare of personnel, including timely promotions, improved living conditions, and entitlements, as vividly explained in his **"Soldier First Concept."** Claims of pay stagnation are completely unfounded, as pay structure adjustments fall under the constitutional purview of the appropriate federal institutions and are not within the unilateral control of the Army leadership.

In fact, it is on record that upon assuming office, COAS Lt. Gen. Oluyede **doubled the personnel Ration Cash Allowance**. He also significantly **enhanced the Nigerian Army Welfare Loan Scheme** for troops. This scheme aims to empower personnel through SME development and asset acquisition with minimal bureaucracy and low interest rates. These are just a few of several welfare schemes, programs, and interventions initiated by the Chief of Army Staff to improve the quality of life for personnel and their families.

Disregarding Sensationalism from Discredited Platforms.

Sahara Reporters, known for its anti-military bias and a long history of sensationalism, has once again proven to be a platform for discredited voices with malicious intent. Their sources remain anonymous because they are either non-existent or unfit to serve the truth. The public is strongly advised to disregard the publication in its entirety, as it lacks both substance and credibility.

The Nigerian Army remains a professional and disciplined force, guided by due process. It will not be distracted by propaganda from discredited platforms seeking to destabilize the morale and cohesion of its gallant troops. The Nigerian Army continues to uphold excellence, transparency, and dedication to duty in service to the nation.

26/07/2025

The leadership of the North Central Youth Council (NCYC) paid a courtesy visit to me today at the Institute’s Headquarters in Abuja.

Led by its Chairman, Mr. Truth Ezekiel, the Council congratulated me on my appointment and commended the strides we’ve made in such a short time at the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI).

They expressed interest in forging a strategic partnership aimed at empowering youths in the North Central region through initiatives in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), as well as digital skills and innovation training.

26/07/2025

Governor Sule Commissions Multi-Purpose Hall, Celebrates Academic Excellence at CSSS Lafia

Nasarawa State Governor, His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, on Saturday, July 26, 2025, attended the 7th Speech and Prize Giving Day, alongside the fourth graduation ceremony of the 2024/2025 academic session at Command Science Secondary School (CSSS), Lafia.

During the event, Governor Sule officially commissioned the newly renovated Multi-Purpose Hall, a project fully undertaken by the Nasarawa State Government. The facility was named the Engr. Abdullahi Sule Multi-Purpose Hall in recognition of the Governor’s unwavering support for educational growth in the state.

The ceremony witnessed the presentation of awards, prizes, and certificates to outstanding students, as well as commendations from school authorities and parents for the government's commitment to quality education and infrastructure development.

26/07/2025

COAS Lauds NDC Course 33's Innovative Solutions for Future Security Challenges

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, on Friday, July 25, 2025, praised the participants of National Defence College (NDC) Course 33 for their **forward-thinking and innovative contributions** to national security. He delivered his commendation at the Army Headquarters Conference Room during the presentation of the COAS Research Paper, a key requirement for the prestigious **Fellow Defence College (fdc)** award.

The presented research, titled *"Directed Energy Weapons and National Security: Strategic Options for the NA by 2040,"* delved into the significant potential of directed energy weapons to bolster Nigeria's national security in the coming decades.

General Oluyede specifically **applauded the participants' futuristic thinking** and their novel approach to tackling evolving security threats. He urged them to persist in developing practical solutions, underscoring the NDC's crucial role as a hub for military strategy and capacity building. The Army Chief also directed the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation to further leverage its capabilities and foster robust partnerships with relevant stakeholders in capacity development.

Speaking during the event, the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral James Okosun, highlighted that the College's training modules are designed to enable participants to **critically examine contemporary national security and development challenges**, particularly those impacting the operational efficiency of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Admiral Okosun also revealed that the COAS had specifically tasked Course 33 participants to research topics and propose actionable strategies that could significantly benefit the Nigerian Army (NA) in the near future, which led to this presentation. He expressed profound gratitude to the COAS for his unwavering support to the NDC, especially for approving the research topic, and pledged continuous collaboration with the NA.

Earlier in the presentation, the course representative, Colonel Obinna Eke, emphasized the **critical importance of leveraging advanced technology** to counter emerging threats. He noted that global trends clearly indicate a growing adoption of such technologies for force protection worldwide. Colonel Eke added that with ongoing efforts to modernize the NA and align with global defence trends, the Nigerian military is well-positioned to develop a strategic roadmap for deploying these advanced capabilities, consistent with both global and regional modernization efforts.

The NDC Course 33 comprises **99 participants** drawn from various arms of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, as well as allied participants from both African and non-African countries.

APPOLONIA ANELE.
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Director Army Public Relations
25 July 2025

26/07/2025

26/07/2025

By Stephen Ojo – Minna Niger State, Nigeria 🇳🇬 Niger State is grappling with a growing cholera outbreak that has now spread across 16 local government areas, with 409 confirmed cases reported so far. This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Primary Health Care, Dr. Ibrahim Ahmed Dangana, d...

25/07/2025

Prof. Yilwatda (L), Pharm. Ajijelek (R) I, Pharm. Augustine Ajijelek, a proud member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a dedicated Humanitarian and Development Professional, heartily congr…

25/07/2025

KOGI: IDAH LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL APPREHENDS SUSPECTED CRIMINALS

25th July, 2025 | 4:47 PM

The Idah Local Government Council, under the leadership of Executive Chairman AAlhaji Alfa Halilu has successfully apprehended suspected criminals terrorizing the Ede community and other parts of Idah. The suspects were caught by the Idah Operation Commander Special Squad Hunter, led by Muhammed Opaluwa (ROSCO), in a daring operation.

The arrests follows a recent surge in criminal activities, including house burglaries and bike thefts, which prompted the Executive Chairman to declare a state of emergency on crime in the area. The Idah Special Squad Security Committee, inaugurated by Alh. Alfa, has been working tirelessly to restore peace and security to the community.

Alh. Alfa Halilu, who was present at the scene, commended the Idah Special Squad Hunter for their bravery and professionalism. He assured the community that the full weight of the law would be brought to bear on the suspects and anyone found complicit.

The suspects have been handed over to the Nigerian Police Force for further investigation and prosecution.
The Executive Chairman warned criminals and their accomplices to desist from such activities or face the full wrath of the law.

The Chairman, Alh. Halilu reassured the Idah community of the council's commitment to ensuring the utmost security of lives and properties. The council remains resolute in its determination to rid the area of criminal elements and maintain peace and order.
Comr. Bala Musa Eleojo
Special Adviser - Information, Communication & Strategy


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