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Ukomu Igala Demands Probe Into Alleged Assault, Detention of Tony-Tony

Maryam Aminu

The Ukomu Igala Organization (UIO) Worldwide has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), demanding an urgent, independent and transparent investigation into the reported arrest, alleged assault and continued detention of Mallam Abdulwahab Tijani, popularly known as Tony-Tony.

The organisation also raised concerns over the impact of coal mining activities on communities in Kogi East, calling for stronger protection of residents, the environment and critical infrastructure in areas hosting mining operations.

In a statement dated August 20, 2026, the UIO said it remained committed to pursuing justice for Tony-Tony through lawful, peaceful and constitutional means while protecting the legitimate interests and well-being of the Igala people and their communities.

The organisation said its petition followed reports of the alleged physical assault of Tony-Tony and his continued detention at the Koton-Karfi Correctional Facility.

It expressed particular concern over reports that he sustained injuries to his head and face during his alleged arrest by some local vigilante operatives.

The UIO alleged that the operatives acted on the orders of the Chairman of Ankpa Local Government Council, and called on the relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

It also demanded that authorities ascertain Tony-Tony’s current physical condition and whereabouts, guarantee his safety and ensure that he receives appropriate medical attention if necessary.

The organisation further called for appropriate action against anyone found to have been connected with any unlawful conduct in the manner of the arrest, while stressing that any allegation that Tony-Tony violated the law should be handled in accordance with due process.

The UIO’s concerns extended beyond the individual case, as it disclosed that it had engaged the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development over the effects of mining activities in Kogi East.

The organisation called for a constructive stakeholders’ dialogue involving government authorities, mining operators, host communities and other relevant stakeholders to address concerns over public health and safety, environmental protection, damage to critical infrastructure such as roads, community development and responsible mining practices.

The UIO said its position on coal mining in Kogi East was clear: mineral exploitation and development must be a “WIN-WIN” endeavour for both the country and the communities where mining takes place.

It argued that while the natural resources beneath the soil of host communities should contribute to national development, the communities should also derive tangible benefits from their exploitation.

“Host communities must not be left with unsafe mining sites, damaged roads, environmental degradation or diminished livelihoods,” the organisation said.

It therefore called for stronger enforcement of environmental, safety and community-development standards, alongside meaningful engagement with communities affected by mining activities.

On the alleged assault and detention of Tony-Tony, the organisation appealed to the relevant authorities to protect his rights and ensure that the allegations were investigated transparently.

“To the relevant authorities, our message is simple: Protect our people. Enforce the law. Uphold due process. Investigate allegations transparently. And ensure that justice prevails,” the UIO said.

The organisation also appealed to the Igala people in Nigeria and the diaspora to remain calm, cooperate with the authorities and maintain unity and hope while it pursues the matter through lawful channels.

The UIO reaffirmed that it would continue to address concerns arising from what it described as the undesirable consequences of coal mining in Kogi East through lawful, constitutional and peaceful means.

It said it believed that justice was strongest when pursued with “courage, restraint and respect for the rule of law”, while reaffirming its commitment to protecting communities, promoting responsible exploitation and development of natural resources, and advancing the Igala race and land.

The statement was signed by Maj Gen JAMES A ATAGUBA (rtd) fdc Ph.D, National Leader of Ukomu Igala Organization Worldwide.

Members of the organisation’s Board of Trustees listed in the statement are Dr. Mike ldachaba, Ph.D (Chairman), Rev. Paul Audu, FCA (Secretary), HRH Enejoh. J. Haruna, Hajia Salamatu Umar-Eluma, Jibrin S. Okutepa, (SAN), and Dr. Victor A. Adoji, Ph.D.

NiMet Hosts Inter-Agency Meeting Ahead of EW4All Nigeria Launch

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), on Friday, 21st August 2026, hosted an Inter-Agency Meeting in preparation for the official launch of the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) Initiative in Nigeria.

The meeting, chaired by the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, had the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, in attendance, while the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, joined virtually. The Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), Umar Ibrahim Mohammed; the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju; and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) were also represented.

The Local Organizing Committee presented a progress report on preparations for the national launch, highlighting key inter-agency engagements, milestones achieved and priority actions.

The Inter-Agency Technical Committee also presented the Nigeria EW4All Implementation Roadmap 2026–2029, outlining the framework and priority actions for coordinated implementation of the initiative.

The meeting further strengthened inter-agency coordination and reaffirmed the commitment of NiMet and partner institutions to advancing people-centered, multi-hazard early warning systems, disaster preparedness and climate resilience across Nigeria.

Youth Help Desk Wins 2026 Civil Service Excellence Award

By Maryam Aminu

The Youth Help Desk of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has won the 2026 Civil Service Excellence Award for outstanding service delivery, after handling more than 5,000 citizen requests and resolving over 4,100 cases since its establishment.

The award, presented by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) on August 15, 2026, recognised the Help Desk for its responsive, customer-focused, accountable and innovative approach to public service delivery.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, received the award on behalf of the Honourable Minister, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, and the Ministry.

Established in 2024 in alignment with SERVICOM standards, the Youth Help Desk is a flagship initiative of the Honourable Minister of Youth Development designed to bridge the gap between government and Nigerian youths.

The platform provides young Nigerians with an accessible channel to obtain information, seek assistance, lodge complaints and receive timely redress.

The Ministry said the more than 5,000 requests handled and over 4,100 cases resolved by the Help Desk demonstrate its commitment to responsive and citizen-centred governance.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, receiving the 2026 Civil Service Excellence Award on behalf of the Ministry from the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, in recognition of the outstanding performance and impact of the Youth Help Desk.

Speaking after receiving the award, Dr. Keshinro expressed delight over the recognition, describing it as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the Ministry’s workforce.

She said the award also demonstrated how effective policy implementation could translate into tangible and positive outcomes when government initiatives were designed to directly address citizens’ needs and concerns.

“I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of the Honourable Minister and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. It is a significant recognition of the dedication and commitment of our officers and the impact of the Youth Help Desk in providing responsive and citizen-centred services,” she said.

Dr. Keshinro said the recognition would further motivate the Ministry to strengthen the Help Desk and sustain innovative approaches to service delivery.

“This award is not only an honour but also a responsibility to do more. We will continue to improve our systems, listen to our citizens and ensure that Nigerian youths receive efficient, accessible and responsive government services,” she added.

The OHCSF commended the Youth Help Desk for “setting a benchmark for excellent performance and a legacy of transformative impact.”

The recognition comes as the Ministry continues to position the Help Desk as a key platform for improving communication between government and Nigerian youths and ensuring that their concerns receive appropriate attention and redress.

Defence Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Military Veterans’ Welfare and Pension Concerns

ABUJA, Wednesday, August 19, 2026 — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the welfare, remuneration and pension concerns of military veterans, assuring them that the issues raised are receiving the attention of the relevant authorities.

The assurance followed a courtesy visit by representatives of military veterans to the Ministry of Defence at Ship House, Abuja, on Wednesday.

According to the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, H.O. Ogubike, who disclosed this in a press statement he signed, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, acknowledged the immense sacrifices and distinguished service rendered by Nigeria’s military veterans.

He said the Minister, who was represented at the engagement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, reaffirmed that the welfare of veterans remained a priority of the Federal Government.

Ogubike further disclosed in the statement that General Musa said concerns relating to wage and pension adjustments were receiving urgent attention, with relevant military, pension and financial authorities being engaged to achieve a fair, sustainable and implementable resolution.

He quoted the Minister as appealing to the veterans for calm, patience and constructive engagement, stressing that sustained dialogue remained the most effective means of resolving outstanding concerns while preserving the dignity, honour and mutual respect befitting those who had served the nation.

The Director stated that the Minister further explained that any adjustment to veterans’ entitlements must be properly computed, adequately funded and implemented in accordance with extant approvals, regulations and due process.

According to him, the Minister said such measures were necessary to guarantee sustainability and prevent unintended disparities in the implementation of veterans’ entitlements.

Ogubike added that General Musa assured the veterans that the Ministry would sustain engagement with their representatives and provide appropriate updates as progress was made towards resolving the issues raised.

The Director quoted the Minister as reiterating that the Federal Government deeply valued the patriotism, courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military veterans.

“He remains committed to ensuring that their service to the nation is recognised not only in words, but through sustained attention to their welfare and legitimate entitlements,” Ogubike stated.

Nigeria Validates National Framework to Strengthen Health Communication Nationwide

ABUJA — Nigeria has validated a new National Health Promotion and Communication Strategic Framework aimed at establishing a coordinated, evidence-based approach to health communication and ensuring that Nigerians have access to reliable and consistent health information.

The framework was validated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) Nigeria, following extensive consultations and engagement with stakeholders across the health sector.

The initiative is designed to bring various national health programmes under a single coordinated communication framework, with the aim of improving the quality, consistency and effectiveness of health messages delivered to citizens.

Health stakeholders said access to accurate and timely health information is critical to enabling individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.

The new framework is expected to promote clearer and more consistent health messaging across the country while strengthening public confidence in official health information.

It will also provide guidance for health workers, government institutions and community stakeholders on effective health promotion and communication practices.

According to stakeholders, the framework will help address challenges associated with fragmented health messaging by ensuring that health communication efforts are better coordinated across national programmes and levels of government.

The initiative is supported by WHO Nigeria, with funding from the Global Fund, as part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s health system and improve access to credible health information.

The framework is expected to play an important role in supporting public health campaigns, disease prevention initiatives and community engagement, particularly during health emergencies and disease outbreaks.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that the coordinated approach would strengthen public understanding of health issues, encourage healthier behaviours and improve the ability of communities to make informed decisions.

The validation marks another step in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen health promotion and communication as essential components of universal health coverage and the broader goal of Health for All.

WHO: Nigeria Validates Revised Guidelines to Strengthen Treatment of Severe Acute Malnutrition in Children

ABUJA — Nigeria has taken a significant step towards reducing child mortality with the validation of its revised National Guidelines on Inpatient Management of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and accompanying training modules for healthcare workers.

The updated guidelines are designed to strengthen the capacity of health workers to provide timely and quality inpatient care to children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, particularly those facing life-threatening complications.

Malnutrition remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, contributing to nearly 45 per cent of deaths among children under five and increasing children’s vulnerability to diseases such as pneumonia, diarrhoea and malaria.

Health experts say strengthening the management of severe acute malnutrition, particularly at the inpatient level, is critical to improving child survival and preventing complications that can lead to death.

The revised guidelines are expected to improve the identification, treatment and follow-up of children with complicated cases of severe acute malnutrition, including vulnerable infants below six months of age.

The review and validation process was supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Irish Aid, UNICEF and other national partners.

According to stakeholders involved in the process, the revised guidelines have been aligned with the latest WHO recommendations while incorporating lessons and experiences from Nigeria’s nutrition programmes.

The updated training modules are also expected to equip healthcare professionals with practical knowledge and skills required to manage complicated SAM cases effectively and ensure continuity of care after hospital discharge.

Stakeholders said the initiative would contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s health system and improving the quality of care available to some of the country’s most vulnerable children.

The validation of the guidelines comes at a time when Nigeria continues to intensify efforts to tackle malnutrition and accelerate progress towards reducing preventable deaths among children under five.

With effective implementation, health authorities and development partners believe the revised guidelines will help save lives, improve recovery outcomes and strengthen the country’s overall response to severe acute malnutrition.

The initiative further underscores the importance of sustained collaboration between the Nigerian government, international development partners and national health stakeholders in addressing childhood malnutrition and advancing child survival.

WHO: Kwara Strengthens Maternal, Family Healthcare Through ‘One Visit, Full Care’ Initiative

ILORIN — The Kwara State Government is strengthening healthcare services for women and families through an integrated care model designed to improve access to essential maternal, reproductive and other health services.

The initiative, known as “One Visit, Full Care,” is being supported in the state by the World Health Organization (WHO) Nigeria, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and Jhpiego, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Kwara State Ministry of Health, with support from the Global Fund.

The integrated approach enables women to access multiple essential health services during a single visit, including sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), HIV, tuberculosis (TB), malaria and neglected tropical disease (NTD) services.

The initiative is aimed at reducing missed diagnoses, cutting down the time and cost associated with multiple hospital visits, and improving access to quality healthcare for women and their families.

The need for the intervention comes against the backdrop of persistent maternal health challenges in Nigeria. Available figures indicate that the country’s maternal mortality ratio remains high at 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, while only about 63 per cent of pregnant women receive antenatal care from a skilled health provider.

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV also remains a concern, accounting for an estimated 14 per cent of new HIV infections, underscoring the need for more integrated and accessible maternal and family healthcare services.

The approach brings together services that are often delivered separately, allowing healthcare workers to identify and address multiple health needs during the same visit.

Her Excellency, Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, Wife of the Kwara State Governor, has also reaffirmed her commitment to advancing integrated healthcare services across the state, particularly initiatives that improve the health and wellbeing of women, children and families.

Health stakeholders said the model represents an important step towards ensuring that women receive comprehensive care without having to navigate multiple service points for different health needs.

Following the experience in Kwara, the integrated care model is now being expanded, with Anambra, Ebonyi and Gombe States preparing to adopt similar approaches.

The expansion is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s efforts to improve maternal and family health outcomes while supporting the country’s broader commitment to universal health coverage and Health for All.

The partners said the initiative demonstrates the value of collaboration between government, development partners and healthcare organisations in addressing persistent gaps in access to quality healthcare services.

Defence Minister, Nigerian Ambassador Meet in Washington Over Counter-Terrorism, Military Modernisation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), OFR, has held a strategic meeting with Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Kayode Are, at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, D.C., as part of efforts to deepen Nigeria’s defence and security cooperation with the United States.

The meeting, held on Monday, August 17, 2026, focused on strengthening the longstanding Nigeria-U.S. defence partnership, particularly in the areas of counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, military technology, technical training and the modernisation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

General Musa emphasised the importance of Nigeria’s continued diversification of international defence partnerships while maintaining its traditional strategic alliances.

He also highlighted the growing importance of advanced military technologies, including drone capabilities and satellite intelligence, in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Nigerian troops in the fight against terrorism and other security threats.

The Minister, however, stressed that Nigeria’s strategic defence engagements with international partners would continue to be conducted with full respect for the country’s sovereignty and national interests.

Receiving the Minister, Ambassador Are commended the security sector reforms being undertaken under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and reaffirmed the Nigerian Embassy’s readiness to facilitate diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening military cooperation between both countries.

The discussions also centred on the deteriorating security situation in parts of the Sahel, with emphasis on the need for stronger regional and international cooperation to confront terrorism and violent extremism.

Speaking on the significance of the Minister’s Washington engagements, Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Adviser (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence, said the visit formed part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s strategic defence relationships and advance the country’s national security interests.

According to her, the engagements underscore the administration’s determination to enhance international cooperation, intelligence sharing, technical capacity and access to modern defence capabilities needed to strengthen the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The Minister subsequently inspected the Defence Section of the Nigerian Embassy, where he commended the Defence Attaché, Air Commodore Valentine Oreaki, and his team for their professionalism and commitment.

General Musa charged the personnel to maintain high standards of discipline, professionalism and dedication in representing the Armed Forces and advancing Nigeria’s defence interests abroad.

The visit marked another major engagement in a week-long series of high-level activities undertaken by the Defence Minister in Washington, D.C., as a member of a Federal Government delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

The engagements are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s strategic relationship with the United States and expanding cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence, defence technology and other areas critical to Nigeria’s national security.

Pastor Korede Komaiya Celebrates Wife, Esther, on 29th Wedding Anniversary

LAGOS, NIGERIA — Senior Nigerian pastor, Pastor Korede Komaiya, has celebrated his wife, Pastor Esther Komaiya, as the couple marked their 29th wedding anniversary.

Komaiya, in a heartfelt anniversary message commemorating their marriage on August 16, 2026, described his wife as a rare gift from God and praised her for her strength, patience, sacrifices and unwavering support throughout their 29 years together.

According to the pastor, the couple got married on August 16, 1997, with Pastor Mrs. Faith Oyedepo joining their hands in marriage.

Reflecting on their journey, Komaiya said what began as a marital covenant had grown into a relationship characterized by love, peace, sacrifice, personal growth and what he described as the faithfulness of God.

He expressed appreciation to his wife for standing by him through challenging seasons, particularly for the sacrifices she made to preserve peace and stability in their home.

“Thank you for the quiet strength that never asked for applause,” the pastor said, while also acknowledging her patience, understanding and support.

Komaiya noted that his wife’s sacrifices often came at the expense of her sleep, comfort and personal preferences, describing them as sacrifices that helped maintain a peaceful and restful home.

He said the experience of their marriage had taught him that marriage is “first sacrificial before it becomes beneficial,” adding that his wife’s commitment had reinforced his appreciation of their union.

Describing Esther as “a rare gift from God,” Komaiya said he did not regard his marriage as merely a good choice or a fortunate discovery, but as a divine blessing.

Looking back on the 29 years, the pastor said he could see what he described as the hand of God throughout their journey.

“We are not just a couple who made it. We are a couple helped by God,” he said.

Komaiya further reaffirmed his commitment to his wife, declaring that he would continue to choose and pursue her while remaining grateful for the privilege of calling her his wife.

He concluded the anniversary message by giving glory to God for the couple’s journey and expressing optimism about their future together.

“Happy 29th Anniversary, my love. The best is still ahead of us,” he said.

The anniversary message has highlighted the couple’s longstanding marriage while celebrating the values of sacrifice, faith, companionship and commitment that have characterized their 29-year journey.

Steron Foundation Plants 100 Trees in Wasa, Takushara to Promote Environmental Sustainability

WASA/TAKUSHARA, FCT, ABUJA — The Steron Community Development Foundation (SCDF), in partnership with the Climate Action Team Initiative and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), has planted 100 trees in Wasa and Takushara communities of the Federal Capital Territory under its “Befriend a Tree Initiative.”

The environmental exercise, which brought together staff of Steron Group, community members and development partners, was aimed at promoting environmental sustainability, strengthening community participation and mitigating the environmental impact associated with extractive activities.

Of the 100 seedlings planted, 80 were economic trees comprising mango and orange varieties, while 20 were mast trees planted at strategic locations across the two communities to support soil stability and improve the local environment.

Leading the exercise was the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Steron Group, Abubakar Sadiq Omar, mni, who personally participated in the tree-planting exercise and planted more than 20 trees alongside residents.

Speaking during the exercise, Omar described the initiative as a personal commitment to environmental responsibility, stressing that companies operating in the extractive sector must take deliberate steps to protect and restore the environment in the communities where they operate.

The participation of the Steron Group chief executive alongside residents attracted commendation from partner organizations and community stakeholders, who described the gesture as a demonstration of corporate leadership and responsible engagement with host communities.

Daniel Black, founder of the Growth for Sustainable Agriculture Initiative and immediate past President of the YALI Network, commended Steron Group and SCDF for the initiative. He said the commitment demonstrated by the company represented an encouraging example of environmental responsibility within Nigeria’s extractive industry.

Similarly, Ebaide Omiunu, founder of the Ebaidebhek Initiative (TEI) and a partner of SCDF, described Steron Group as a model of corporate responsibility, particularly in its approach to environmental sustainability and community development.

Representing NEITI, the organization’s Gender and Environment Officer, Stephanie, said the agency would continue to support initiatives that promote environmental responsibility and transparency within the extractive sector.

She added that NEITI would continue to monitor the activities of mining companies and encourage accountability in their engagements with host communities.

The exercise also witnessed the participation of the entire Steron Group workforce, who worked alongside residents of Wasa and Takushara throughout the tree-planting exercise.

According to the organizers, the initiative forms part of Steron Group’s broader community development and environmental sustainability programme, with activities designed to extend beyond its mining operations.

The foundation is also scheduled to commence a clean-cooking initiative in the two communities in the coming week. Under the programme, Steron Group’s Community Development Manager, Halima Imam, will train women in Wasa and Takushara on the production of briquettes as an alternative clean-cooking fuel.

The initiative is expected to contribute to cleaner household energy use, reduce pressure on trees and promote a healthier environment in the host communities.

The organizers said the Befriend a Tree Initiative would be sustained beyond the initial planting exercise, with emphasis on nurturing and protecting the seedlings until they mature.

They said the long-term success of the programme would ultimately be measured not only by the number of trees planted, but by their survival and contribution to the environmental and economic wellbeing of Wasa and Takushara communities.