FG Organizes Capacity Building Training for Youth Development Officers to Address Modern Challenges

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Youth Development, has concluded a significant capacity-building training aimed at equipping Youth Development Officers and professional youth workers with modern strategies to tackle the evolving challenges faced by young people in Nigeria.

The three-day event, held at the Manpower Development Institute, Dutse, from October 3 to October 5, 2024, focused on the theme: “Modern Trends in Effective and Efficient Programming for Young People.”

In her keynote address, Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, represented by Mr. Kabiru Mohammed, Director of Education and Youth Development, stressed the importance of adopting fresh perspectives and fostering collaboration. “Empowering young people is a shared responsibility,” she remarked.

“Your enhanced skills will not only shape the present but influence generations to come. It is crucial to embody teamwork and innovation, ensuring impactful youth programs.”

Dr. Bio-Ibrahim lauded the participants’ dedication, acknowledging their vital role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s youth. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering youth development officers with innovative strategies and best practices.

“This initiative demonstrates our dedication to investing in your skills and knowledge, enabling you to inspire positive change and implement impactful programs,” she said.

L-R, Mohammad kabiru, Director, Education and Youth Development, FMYD and Sagir Musa Ahmed, Hon. Commissioner for Youth and Sports Jigawa state.

Hon. Sagir Musa Ahmed, Jigawa State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, commended the training theme, underscoring the need for all stakeholders to embrace dynamic programs that empower young people.

He praised the appointment of two young, vibrant ministers by President Bola Tinubu, which he described as a reflection of the President’s commitment to youth development.

“It’s a step all state governors should emulate. The future belongs to the youth, and they must be prepared to lead,” Sagir noted.

The training covered a broad spectrum of topics essential to youth development work, including administrative procedures, report writing, minuting, and drafting.

Key sessions also addressed youth-specific issues, such as the Commonwealth’s values on youth development, principles and practices of youth work, and effective strategies to drive meaningful change in youth communities.

The comprehensive training is expected to have a lasting impact, equipping youth officers to better support Nigeria’s youth, as the Ministry continues its efforts to build a more inclusive and empowered generation.

NASENI Awards N70.5 Million Grant to Six Female Engineers in Pioneering DELT-Her Initiative

Emmanuel Daudu

In a trailblazing move to promote gender equality in science and engineering, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has awarded N70.5 million in grants to six young female engineers.

The funding comes under the Developing Engineering Leaders Through Her (DELT-Her) initiative, a landmark project designed to foster the growth of female-led innovations in traditionally male-dominated fields.

The DELT-Her initiative, launched on March 8, 2024, in celebration of International Women’s Day, is a part of NASENI’s Delta-2 programme.

The programme aims to provide financial and technical support to women pursuing careers in engineering and technology, an effort to close the gender gap and encourage more female participation in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

During the grant award ceremony at NASENI’s Headquarters in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, represented by Dr. Mrs. Nonyem Onyechi, lauded the groundbreaking potential of the six awardees.

“The DELT-Her project is about more than innovation. It’s about changing the narrative and creating spaces where women can lead in the science and technology sectors,” he stated.

The projects funded by the grants span a wide range of critical areas. Engr. Amina Ibrahim Khaleel’s innovative drone for intelligent real-time security and target tracking secured N17.5 million, while Patience Ibrahim-Janda’s eco-friendly brake pads, made from organic waste, received N10 million. Each project was selected through a competitive process from over 120 applications, all of which demonstrated unique solutions to pressing issues.

Speaking during the event, the Chairman of the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT), Dr. Mohammed Dahiru, explained the rigorous evaluation process.

“We’ve chosen these six innovators because their ideas are both practical and transformative. These projects have the potential to significantly impact their industries and the nation at large,” he said.

The full list of grant recipients and their projects includes:

Engr. Amina Ibrahim Khaleel, Patience Ibrahim-Janda,
Engr. Rukkaya Abdulmutalib.

Others include Engr. Dr. Kudirat Oyewumi Jimoh,
Engr. Dr. Ikechukwu Ijeoma Francisca,
Engr. Abisola Ayomide Olayiwola

In addition to the financial support, the winners also benefited from technical mentorship, links to industry experts, and assistance in commercializing their products.

Some of the recipients have been selected to represent Nigeria at the AFRI. Lab Annual Gathering in Cape Town, South Africa, where they will showcase their innovations on a global stage.

Dr. Dahiru also noted that the event coincided with the recently celebrated International Day of the Girl Child, emphasizing the importance of fostering interest in STEM fields among young girls.

At the ceremony, four Junior Girls Secondary Schools from Abuja exhibited their own technological innovations, ranging from fuel-less generators to solar-powered agricultural devices, underscoring the potential of the next generation of female engineers.

NASENI’s DELT-Her initiative is a game-changer in Nigeria’s STEM landscape, setting a bold precedent for the future of female engineers. The programme not only empowers the current crop of female innovators but also inspires young girls across the country to pursue careers in science, technology, and engineering.

FG Launches Strategic Committee to Combat Youth Unemployment, Drive Economic Growth

Maryam Aminu

In a bold move aimed at curbing the country’s rising unemployment rates and fostering youth inclusion in national economic growth, the Federal Government has inaugurated a special committee through the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the unemployment crisis and boosting the economic well-being of Nigerian youth.

The Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, announced the formation of the joint committee during an official ceremony in Abuja.

The committee, which includes members from the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), has been tasked with developing innovative strategies to tackle the unemployment scourge that continues to plague the nation’s youth.

Speaking at the inauguration, Comrade Olawande highlighted the NDE’s pivotal role in this collaboration, noting that its mandate aligns with the Ministry’s broader mission of providing gainful employment for young Nigerians.

He emphasized the need for synergy between both entities to create sustainable job opportunities that would have a lasting impact on Nigeria’s economy.

“The committee will review all existing NDE initiatives, propose improvements, and introduce new programmes specifically aimed at accelerating youth employment.

This collaboration will bring us closer to creating an environment where our young people can thrive,” said Olawande.

The Minister also outlined the committee’s terms of reference, which include reviewing the effectiveness of current NDE programmes, proposing new strategies for job creation, and integrating NDE Schedule Officers at the local government level into the Ministry’s upcoming “Green House Initiative.”

In added that the committee will explore opportunities for donor partnerships and work on the development of a youth employment website to accurately track unemployment statistics.

The committee has been given a two-week timeframe to complete its assignment and present its recommendations.

Mr. Umaru Aliyu, Desk Officer of the National Directorate of Employment, reinforced the importance of this collaboration in addressing unemployment.

He noted that NDE has strategically positioned Desk Officers in all 774 local government areas across the country, ensuring that the needs of both formal and informal sectors are met.

Aliyu stressed that the joint effort would extend its focus to senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to reducing unemployment nationwide.

This initiative marks a significant step towards fulfilling the government’s pledge to tackle unemployment, particularly among the youth, who are crucial to the nation’s economic growth. As the committee gets to work, the country watches with anticipation for the new policies and programmes that will help reshape the future of Nigerian youth.

Matawalle’s Unyielding Battle Against Banditry in Zamfara Amid Political Turmoil

Emmanuel Daudu

In the face of mounting security challenges and political distractions, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, remains undeterred in his quest to restore peace to Zamfara State.

Known for his decisive role in combating banditry, Matawalle’s efforts have drawn both praise and criticism, as he balances the complex political landscape with his determination to dismantle criminal networks in the region.

Since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle has leveraged his deep understanding of Zamfara’s security dynamics gained during his time as governor to lead the charge against insurgents.

One of his most significant achievements came with the elimination of the notorious bandit leader, Halilu Sububu. This victory, realized through a coordinated effort between the Ministry of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, marked a critical moment in the fight against the criminal forces ravaging the state.

Matawalle’s leadership has been characterized by his hands-on approach. His frequent visits to the Sokoto base of Operation Hadarin Daji to assess troop readiness and boost morale underline his commitment to eradicating the violence.

Yet, despite these successes, his efforts have been met with resistance, particularly from opposition figures in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Political observers, such as Usman Abdullahi, argue that the PDP’s criticism of Matawalle’s efforts stems from jealousy and partisan interests.

The opposition has been accused of turning national security into a political battleground, rather than focusing on the critical issue of ending the violence that has plagued Zamfara for years.

Matawalle’s growing influence, especially among Northern communities, has reportedly unsettled political rivals who fear his rising popularity.

The human toll of banditry in Zamfara remains immense. Families have been torn apart by kidnappings and killings, and entire communities have been displaced.

The region’s economy, heavily reliant on agriculture and mining, has been crippled by the chaos, with farmers unable to work and essential services in disarray.

Despite these dire circumstances, Matawalle has remained resolute, continuing to dismantle the networks of bandits and illegal mining operators that fuel the region’s instability.

Critics may question his methods, but there is little doubt about Matawalle’s commitment to restoring peace.

His efforts to secure Zamfara have been praised by security experts who note that, with continued focus, the state could see a return to stability. As political distractions continue to loom, many hope that all sides can unite behind the common goal of ending the bloodshed.

The Honourable Minister’s resolve remains unwavering, and his work in Zamfara serves as a testament to his leadership in one of Nigeria’s most volatile regions.

With the stakes as high as ever, Matawalle’s vision of a peaceful Zamfara is slowly becoming a reality, despite the obstacles placed in his path.

Federal Government Reaffirms Commitment to Eliminating Insecurity: Defence Minister Outlines Strategic Measures

Emmanuel Daudu

In a renewed pledge to combat insecurity across Nigeria, the Federal Government has emphasized its determination to eliminate the growing security challenges that have gripped the nation, particularly in the North-West region.

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, gave this assurance while addressing journalists after a courtesy visit to the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, on Friday, October 18, 2024.

During the visit, Badaru delivered President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directives aimed at strengthening security measures across the region.

The Minister noted that the Federal Government’s strategy hinges on robust collaboration with the Armed Forces, key stakeholders, and affected communities.

He emphasized the importance of continuous consultations and engagement with these groups as part of a broader review of Nigeria’s security framework.

“This collaborative approach will allow us to review and adapt operational strategies that will lead to positive changes in our fight against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity,” Badaru said.

“We are determined to restore peace and stability not just in the North-West, but across the entire nation.”

As part of his two-day visit to Kaduna State, the Minister will inspect the Headquarters of Sub-Sector 3 and Section 1 Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Fansan Yamma in Birnin Gwari.

This visit is aimed at boosting the morale of the troops stationed in the region, who have been at the forefront of operations against criminal elements.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, expressed his appreciation for the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to restoring security in the region.

The Governor commended the Minister for his proactive engagement with military personnel and welcomed the progress made by security agencies, particularly under Operation Safe Corridor and the Joint Military Command.

“The joint efforts of our military forces have proven that the Federal Government is dedicated to safeguarding the lives and properties of our people,” Sani said.

He further called on the Minister to consider integrating Operation Safe Haven under the 1 Division, Kaduna, to streamline security operations.

The Governor also advocated for the establishment of a Command and Control Centre to better coordinate efforts against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal networks in the state.

The Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining security in the region comes at a critical time, with increasing calls from citizens for effective solutions to the insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping crises.

As the Minister of Defence continues his consultations with local leaders and military officials, the nation watches closely for the results of these renewed efforts.

Badaru’s visit to the troops in Birnin Gwari underscores the importance of boosting troop morale and supporting their operational efforts.

The Headquarters of Sub-Sector 3 and Section 1 of the JTF Operation Fansan Yamma has been a strategic point in the fight against terrorists and bandits in the region, and the Minister’s visit is expected to further galvanize the military’s determination to root out criminal elements.

In addition, Governor Sani’s recommendation for a centralized Command and Control Centre reflects the urgency of coordinating security efforts to achieve greater effectiveness in combating the rising criminal activities in the state.

He lauded the government’s progress on initiatives like Operation Safe Corridor, which focuses on deradicalization and reintegration of former militants, as part of a holistic approach to addressing insecurity.

As the Federal Government steps up its efforts to address security concerns, all eyes are on the next phase of its anti-insurgency operations, particularly the results from the consultations and strategic adjustments currently underway.

Prince Uche Oduche Unveils Vision to Elevate Ifedinma Friends Club to New Heights

Maryam Aminu

In a vibrant display of camaraderie and ambition, the elite Ifedinma Friends Club of Nigeria held its 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the renowned 4 Points by Sheraton Hotel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

The event, marked by strategic deliberations and a shared sense of purpose, saw the club’s National President, High Chief Dr. Sir Prince Uche Oduche, unveiled a bold vision to propel the organization to greater heights.

Prince Oduche reflected on the club’s meteoric rise since its inception seven years ago.

“Our journey has been nothing short of extraordinary,” he said, his voice resonating with pride.

“We have consistently demonstrated resilience and a passion for excellence, and today, we stand as one of the most influential social clubs in Lagos.”

He attributed much of the club’s success to the unwavering support of its Board of Trustees and executive members, whom he hailed as the backbone of the organization.

“Their dedication and strategic insight have been instrumental in shaping our club’s trajectory,” he noted.

Prince Oduche revealed the club’s acquisition of a prime piece of land on 721 Road, Festac Town, Lagos.

The property, he explained, is set to host a development of 15 two-bedroom apartments, a venture aimed at securing the financial future of the club.

“This project will not only enhance our financial standing but also relieve members from future levies, especially given the economic challenges we face as a nation,” Oduche explained.

He disclosed that construction is slated to begin in two months, pending final approvals and documentation.

Prince Oduche also touched on the club’s unique ability to foster business growth among its members, describing it as a cornerstone of their success.

“We have cultivated an environment where members can share business ideas and resources, which has been one of our greatest assets. This is not just a social club; it’s a platform for personal and professional growth,” he said.

Prince Oduche expressed his determination to continue steering Ifedinma Friends Club toward even greater achievements.

“My goal is to take this club to new heights, and I assure our members that we will never falter in our pursuit of excellence. Together, we will build a future that honors the legacy we’ve created.”

As one of Nigeria’s leading social clubs, Ifedinma Friends Club has amassed a strong membership base of over 100 influential individuals, all committed to its vision of unity, growth, and mutual support.

This AGM not only reinforced the club’s values but also laid out a clear roadmap for its future one that promises to cement its place at the forefront of Nigeria’s social and business landscape.

Armed Forces of Nigeria Strike Terror Havens, Recover Arms and Rescue Hostages in Bold Operations

Emmanuel Daudu

In a series of relentless operations across Nigeria’s conflict zones, the Armed Forces have made remarkable strides in counterterrorism efforts, conducting operations that neutralized terrorists, dismantled criminal networks, and rescued kidnapped hostages.

The operations, spanning the country’s North East, North Central, North West, and South-South regions, are part of ongoing campaigns to restore peace and security.

The Director Defense Media Operations Major General Edward Buba, made this known in a statement he signed and made available to journalists today in Abuja

Troops under Operation HADIN KAI scored significant victories against Boko Haram (BH) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.

“Over the week, 74 terrorist fighters, including combatants and their families, surrendered to Nigerian forces.”

Major Buba noted that operations across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states also led to the arrest of 29 suspected terrorist collaborators.

In various fierce battles, troops neutralized 54 terrorists, arrested 71 suspects, and rescued 39 hostages.

‘Military hardware recovered during these engagements included 18 AK-47 rifles, fabricated firearms, and significant rounds of ammunition.” Said Major Buba

One of the high points was an air interdiction mission targeting terrorist hideouts in Bukar Meram, which saw several insurgents killed and their logistical hubs destroyed.

He further disclosed that the North Central region, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN intensified counter-kidnapping and anti-terror operations in Plateau and Kaduna States.

“The troops arrested 36 extremists, neutralized 5, and rescued 46 kidnapped victims. Among the seized items were a cache of firearms, including locally fabricated guns, and rounds of ammunition. The operation’s success was bolstered by swift responses to distress calls from vulnerable communities.

The war against terror was also active in the North West, where Operation HADARIN DAJI troops responded to terrorist threats in Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna states.

He revealed that troops neutralized 25 terrorists, rescued 32 hostages, and arrested 29 extremists.

The operations resulted in the recovery of 8 AK-47 rifles, fabricated weapons, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and motorcycles used by the terrorists for their attacks.

In an air strike targeting terrorist enclaves in Zamfara State, several insurgents were eliminated, further crippling their operational capacities.

The Director Defence Media operations explained that the troops under Operation DELTA SAFE continued their campaign against oil theft and illegal refineries, seizing over 700,000 liters of stolen crude oil.

They arrested violent extremists and kidnappers across Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Edo States.

The operation also destroyed 34 illegal refining sites, marking a significant blow to oil thieves in the region. The air component played a critical role by targeting and destroying storage tanks, reservoirs, and barges linked to the illicit activities.

Across the various operations, the Nigerian military’s unified approach, backed by air interdiction missions, has led to a notable decline in insurgent activities.
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The combined forces neutralized a total of 99 terrorists, arrested 170 suspects, and rescued 138 hostages.

“These operations underscore the determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces to eliminate terror threats and restore peace to the nation’s troubled regions.

The military remains committed to sustaining these gains, with continued operations aimed at rooting out the remnants of terror groups and ensuring a safer Nigeria.

CSOs Slam Governors’ Actions, Call for Sanctions Over Threat to Anti-Corruption Efforts and Local Government Autonomy

Adejoh Bilkisu

A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) focused on anti-corruption and good governance has strongly criticized the actions of several state governors, warning that their efforts undermine Nigeria’s fight against corruption and threaten the financial autonomy of local governments a key pillar of grassroots democracy.

During a joint press conference in Abuja, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), condemned the legal actions initiated by 16 state governors to challenge the authority of anti-corruption bodies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

The governors have filed a suit at the Supreme Court, seeking to strip these agencies of their powers at the state level.

“These governors are hiding behind legal technicalities to challenge the legality of institutions like the EFCC, which has effectively operated for over two decades under Nigerian law. Their actions undermine the anti-corruption fight and send a dangerous message that accountability can be sacrificed for political convenience,” Rafsanjani said.

The suit, slated for hearing on October 22, 2024, seeks to prevent the EFCC and NFIU from issuing directives or investigating funds allocated to state and local governments. The governors argue that the EFCC Act is unconstitutional because it was not ratified by state Houses of Assembly, citing Section 12 of the 1999 Constitution related to treaties.

However, Rafsanjani refuted this argument, stressing that the EFCC Act is a national law designed to combat corruption, not a treaty.

He warned that Nigeria risks being blacklisted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which has already placed the country on its grey list for non-cooperation in global efforts against money laundering.

The coalition, which includes 43 prominent CSOs such as Yiaga Africa, Connected Development (CODE), Amnesty International Nigeria, BudgIT Foundation, and the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) etc, called on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to impose sanctions on any governor violating the financial autonomy of local governments.

The CSOs noted that a recent Supreme Court ruling affirmed the financial independence of local governments, which is crucial for delivering essential services and fostering grassroots development. Despite this ruling, some governors continue to interfere with local government finances and have introduced bills to undermine the court’s decision.

Speaking further, Hamzat Lawal, Chief Executive of Connected Development CODE, emphasized that the fight against corruption is a collective responsibility.

“Institutions like the EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU are essential to winning this fight. Any attempt to render these institutions ineffective is a disservice to Nigeria,” Lawal said.

He called on the governors to withdraw their lawsuit and work collaboratively with anti-corruption agencies to promote transparency and accountability in their states.

He also urged the government to strengthen these institutions by providing them with the necessary resources and ensuring their independence.

“We reject any attempt to weaken Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework and call on all Nigerians to join us in defending the integrity and effectiveness of these agencies,” the coalition declared.

They expressed acall for action from all arms of government executive, judiciary, and legislature to reinforce the country’s anti-corruption efforts for the benefit of all Nigerians.

Rt.Hon. Abbas Decries Poor Funding of NSCC, Pledges Partnership to Strengthen Senior Citizen Care

Adejoh Bilkisu
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In a significant development, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed concerns over the inadequate funding of the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), noting its limited budget allocation of N450 million for 2024.

Despite the financial constraints, Abbas lauded the NSCC’s achievements in its first three years of operation, recognizing its critical role in addressing the needs of Nigeria’s aging population.

Speaking during a meeting with the NSCC’s Director General, Dr. Emem Omokaro, and her team at his office, Rt. Hon. Abbas acknowledged the center’s progress and promised increased legislative support to ensure the actualization of its mandate.

He emphasized the need for improved funding in the 2025 budget to enable the NSCC to provide essential services to senior citizens across the country’s 774 local government areas.

Abbas highlighted the unique position of the NSCC as the sole government agency focused on aging issues and pledged the House’s commitment to bolstering its capacity.

He assured Dr. Omokaro of future collaborations aimed at enhancing pension governance, healthcare delivery for seniors, and creating age-friendly environments nationwide.

The Speaker mentioned plans to establish NSCC offices in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Dr. Omokaro, in her remarks, expressed gratitude to the National Assembly for passing the National Senior Citizens Centre Act in 2017, which she described as a landmark shift in the inclusion of older persons in Nigeria’s national development agenda.

However, she raised concerns about the persistent underfunding of the center, urging the House to champion the National Plan of Action on Aging and ensure that ministries and government agencies prioritize projects directly benefiting older citizens.

The Director General further advocated for the establishment of a regulatory framework for the geriatric social care sector.

She also called for the training and certification of at least 250 caregivers in each state, noting the current reliance on unskilled workers in senior care.

With the House of Representatives pledging to address these challenges, the partnership between the legislature and the NSCC could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s efforts to improve the well-being of its aging populati

Defence Minister Expresses Heartfelt Condolences to Jigawa State Over Tragic Fuel Tanker Explosion

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fuel tanker explosion that claimed over 90 lives and left more than 50 injured in Majiya Town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

In a statement released on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, the Defence Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of Jigawa State, while offering words of comfort to the families of the victims.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic fuel tanker explosion that claimed precious lives and left many injured. My heart goes out to the people of Jigawa State during this difficult time,” said the Minister.

“I pray that the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may Almighty God grant their families the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May the injured recover quickly and fully.”

The explosion, which occurred on Tuesday night, has left the community reeling from the tragic loss of life, and the Defence Minister’s message of support comes as the nation mourns alongside Jigawa.

The Minister’s expression of sympathy underscores the government’s commitment to standing by affected communities in times of disaster.

This incident, one of the deadliest in recent memory, has raised concerns about safety protocols and emergency preparedness in rural areas where such disasters often have catastrophic effects.

Local authorities have begun investigations to determine the cause of the explosion, while efforts to provide medical aid to survivors are ongoing.