Troops Neutralize Terrorists and Rescue 24 Hostages in Mandara Mountains Raid

On September 5, 2024, Nigerian Army troops, working with other security forces, carried out a successful raid in the Mandara Mountains, resulting in the neutralization of several terrorists and the rescue of 24 hostages. The operation, which took place in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, saw the terrorists abandon their captives as they fled.

In addition to rescuing the hostages, the Army recovered significant weapons and ammunition, including 11 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, one AK-47 rifle magazine, a Dane gun, and other items. The raid also led to the apprehension of a notorious arms courier linked to a wanted terrorist.

Simultaneously, in Kaduna State, troops neutralized one criminal in Kabode village and rescued four victims from a kidnappers’ den. The operation yielded one AK-47 rifle, 10 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, six motorcycles, and three mobile phones.

Further operations in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State resulted in the capture of a terrorist arms courier and the recovery of multiple firearms and ammunition, including three AK-47 rifles, a Galil rifle, and various rounds of ammunition. Intelligence from this arrest led to the apprehension of eight additional suspects.

In Plateau State, troops raided a criminal hideout in Riyom Local Government Area, arresting two suspects and seizing two mobile phones and a knife. Additionally, in Barikin Ladi Local Government Area, 64 rustled cattle were recovered in Fann village, believed to be stolen during the Mangu crisis earlier this year.

The Chief of Army Staff praised the troops for their bravery and effective collaboration with other security agencies and local communities in the fight against terrorism and criminal activities.

Insecurity and Farmers/Herders Conflicts Impact Agriculture Sector’s Growth

The agriculture sector in Nigeria has experienced a decline in growth and economic contribution in the second quarter of 2024 (Q2’24), largely due to ongoing insecurity and conflicts between farmers and herders.

According to the latest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures, the sector’s contribution to the economy decreased to 22.61%, down from 23.01% in the same period last year. The sector’s growth rate also fell to 1.41%, from 1.50% a year ago. However, on a Quarter-on-Quarter basis, the growth rate improved by 1.22 percentage points from the previous quarter.

Crop production remains the primary driver of the sector, representing 87.48% of its nominal value during Q2’24. Despite this, challenges such as security issues and disruptions in supply chains have significantly affected production levels.

David Adonri of Highcap Securities attributed the slowdown to attacks by bandits and terrorists, which have hampered agricultural productivity. He called for increased government action to address these security threats and to promote local production of farm machinery.

Mercy Okon of Parthian Securities Limited highlighted additional factors such as climate and weather-related issues, including flooding, as well as rising costs of agricultural inputs due to high foreign exchange rates. These factors have compounded the difficulties faced by farmers, further impacting agricultural output.

NIMC Confirms Smooth Operation of NIN-SIM Linkage System Ahead of Deadline

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has announced that its systems for National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment, verification, authentication, and data modification are functioning smoothly as the September 14, 2024 deadline for the NIN-SIM linkage approaches.

According to a statement from Kayode Adegoke, Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, over 10,000 NIN enrolment centres are currently operational across Nigeria and in the diaspora. The commission encourages all Nigerians and legal residents to visit these centres to complete their enrolment and obtain their NIN.

NIMC also highlighted that the NIN Self-Service portal (self-servicemodification.nimc.gov.ng) is available for those wishing to modify their NIN data. For further information, including details about enrolment centres and procedures, individuals can visit the NIMC website at www.nimc.gov.ng.

The commission reaffirms its dedication to preventing extortion and unethical practices, emphasizing that NIN enrolment services are provided free of charge.

Seven States to Experience Severe Flooding Soon, FG Warns

The Federal Government has issued a warning of potential flooding affecting 21 states and 123 locations due to expected heavy rainfall from September 4-8, 2024. The seven states anticipated to face the most severe flooding are Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa.

The National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre has advised communities, especially those downstream of the River Benue, to prepare for the impact. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has recommended that states take precautionary measures such as clearing drainages, constructing temporary flood barriers, and evacuating flood-prone areas. Residents are urged to stay informed through weather updates and cooperate with local emergency services.

The Federal Government has issued a warning of potential flooding affecting 21 states and 123 locations due to expected heavy rainfall from September 4-8, 2024. The seven states anticipated to face the most severe flooding are Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Delta, Imo, Rivers, and Bayelsa.

The National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre has advised communities, especially those downstream of the River Benue, to prepare for the impact. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has recommended that states take precautionary measures such as clearing drainages, constructing temporary flood barriers, and evacuating flood-prone areas. Residents are urged to stay informed through weather updates and cooperate with local emergency services.

Hospital Admissions May Rise Due to Fuel Price Hike, NMA Warns

The Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has expressed concern that the recent fuel price hike could lead to an increase in hospital admissions due to rising stress and mental health issues among Nigerians. The NMA has urged President Bola Tinubu to address the issue by reversing the price increase and working towards self-sufficiency in petroleum production.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited raised the price of petrol to over N855 per litre, with some independent marketers charging up to N1,300 per litre. The NMA fears this will exacerbate economic pressures, increase poverty, and lead to more stress-induced medical conditions. The association is calling for immediate intervention to mitigate the negative effects on public health.

Cristiano Ronaldo Becomes First Player to Score 900 Goals

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history as the first men’s player to reach 900 goals in official matches. The milestone was achieved during Portugal’s UEFA Nations League match against Croatia in Lisbon, where Ronaldo scored with a volley from a cross by Nuno Mendes, leading Portugal to a 2-1 victory.

Ronaldo’s 900 goals surpass his nearest rival, Lionel Messi, who has 842 goals. Brazilian legend Pelé ranks third with 765 goals. Ronaldo’s record includes 131 international goals, the most ever, and 769 club goals with Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al Nassr.

At 39, Ronaldo has no plans to retire soon and aims to reach 1,000 goals by around age 41. He emphasized that his goals are documented with video evidence, differentiating his achievements from those of past legends.

FG Announces Sale of Subsidised Rice with NIN Requirement

The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated the sale of 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice at a subsidised rate of ₦40,000 per 50kg bag. This initiative aims to alleviate the ongoing food crisis and provide affordable rice to Nigerians.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari, emphasized that the sale will be strictly regulated on a “one person, one bag” basis. Buyers must present a National Identification Number (NIN) to qualify for purchase. The process is designed to prevent individuals from buying more than one bag, with verification involving NIN, phone numbers, and, for civil servants, Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) details.

Director of Strategic Grains Reserve, Haruna Sule, explained that after providing a valid identification, buyers will receive a code number and a Treasury receipt, which must be presented at a separate collection point to pick up the rice.

This move follows a previous suspension of a similar plan announced in July by the Ministry of Information. The government hopes this intervention will stabilize rice prices and benefit a broad segment of the population.

NNPC Ties Dangote Petrol Price to Forex Rates, Awaiting September 15 Start

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced that it will begin lifting petrol from the $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery on September 15. However, the price of the petrol will be influenced by foreign exchange rates and market forces due to the deregulated nature of the market, as stated by NNPC Executive Vice President Adedapo Segun.

Oil marketers report that approximately 2,000 tankers are still waiting to load petrol at various depots across Nigeria. The Federal Government has indicated that a significant supply of petrol is expected over the weekend, with vessels already offloading, but has not fixed the price of petrol.

NNPC clarified that it has not yet started lifting petrol from Dangote’s refinery and debunked reports of the product being sold at N897 per litre. Dangote Group’s Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, emphasized that NNPC and Dangote have yet to finalize pricing agreements.

The NNPC has supplied 30 million barrels of crude oil to Dangote’s refinery and plans to deliver an additional 17 million barrels. The refinery’s output and pricing will reflect market conditions and forex rates, with the Federal Government ensuring that prices remain fair and prevent exploitation.

Minister of Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri reassured Nigerians that there would be increased availability of petrol soon, urging against panic buying and confirming that the government is not fixing prices, as the sector remains deregulated.

Fire Tragedy at Kenyan School Claims Lives of 17 Children

A tragic fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County, Central Kenya, has claimed the lives of at least 17 children, aged between five and twelve. The blaze, which erupted around midnight, engulfed a dormitory where the students were sleeping.

National police spokesperson Resila Onyango confirmed the fatalities and noted that 16 other children sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized. The bodies of the victims, who were severely burned, are challenging to identify, with their average age estimated at around nine years old.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, with authorities working to determine how the incident occurred. President William Ruto has expressed profound sorrow and extended condolences to the victims’ families, promising a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. The Kenyan Red Cross and a multi-agency response team are providing support and psychological assistance to the affected families and community.

ICPC Denies Arrest of Chris Ngige Amid Fraud Allegations

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed reports circulating on social media about the arrest of former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige. According to ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare, Ngige was invited for questioning concerning certain activities from his tenure as minister, not arrested.

Bakare clarified that after the questioning, Ngige was allowed to leave but is required to return for further inquiries on a specified date. He urged the public to disregard false reports and called on journalists to verify information before publication.

Ngige’s questioning relates to ongoing investigations into contracts awarded under the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and follows a previous inquiry into a ₦47 million gratuity payment to a former NSITF Managing Director. Additionally, a committee led by Simon Lalong, Ngige’s successor, is investigating alleged irregularities involving contracts worth ₦1.8 billion within NSITF.