By David Torough, Abuja

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops of the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division and the Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, to maintain their current operational momentum and decisively defeat bandits and terrorists operating within their area of responsibility.

Lieutenant General Shaibu gave the charge on December 27, 2025, during an operational visit to formations and units under the 8 Division, including the 248 Reconnaissance Battalion in Illela, Sokoto State.

Addressing the troops, the Army Chief commended them for their gallantry, professionalism and resilience in confronting criminal elements whose activities have caused hardship for communities across the region.

He noted that the sustained operations of the troops have led to notable improvements in security within the division’s area of responsibility.

“I commend you for your courage, professionalism and the operational successes recorded so far. Your sacrifices have translated into improved security in your area of responsibility,” he said, urging them to sustain the pressure on criminal groups and bring their activities to an end.

The COAS also reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of officers and soldiers, announcing plans for the construction of additional accommodation, medical and other essential facilities at Illela Barracks.

According to him, the initiative is aimed at boosting morale, improving the well-being of troops and their families, and enhancing overall operational effectiveness.

The visit underscores the Army leadership’s resolve to strengthen ongoing counterterrorism and anti-banditry operations, particularly in the northwest, as part of broader efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the country.

From Askira Aliyu, Kano

President Bola  Tinubu has sent a message of condolence to the government and people of Kano State over the passing of two members of the state’s House of Assembly,  Aminu Saad Ungogo and Aliyu Sarki Daneji, representing Ungogo and Kano Municipal constituencies respectively,   both of who died in separate incidents within an hour on Wednesday.

President Tinubu described the death of the two legislators as sad, tragic and painful.

He noted that their departure has created a void, depriving the people of the two constituencies of committed representation.

The President said, “I offer my condolences to their families and constituents as well as the government and people of Kano State.

“I also commiserate with the presiding officers and all members of the Kano State House of Assembly over the demise of their respected colleagues” Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga said in a statement.

The President prayed for the repose of the souls of the late lawmakers and divine comfort to their families.

By David Torough, Abuja

The Managing Director of ARKAN, Engr. Mazen Kalassina has been honoured with the 2025 Person of the Year Award by the Community of Tiv Students (CTS), in recognition of his exceptional professional achievements and meaningful contributions to engineering practice and technological advancement.

The award celebrates a distinguished career defined by a rare blend of hands-on engineering expertise, strategic corporate leadership, and sustained engagement with emerging technologies.

Kalassina’s professional journey reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation, and relevance in an era of rapid technological change.

A COREN-certified engineer and an active member of reputable professional bodies in Nigeria, Engr.

His work continues to align engineering practice with modern infrastructure and innovation-driven growth.

Beyond conventional engineering, Engr. Kalassina has attracted international academic attention for his intellectual contributions to discussions on artificial intelligence and human–machine interaction.

His ideas are referenced on global knowledge platforms, including Wikipedia entries on Social Robotics and Anthropomorphism, underscoring his influence in interdisciplinary technological discourse.

In a notable development, he is documented as the first individual to receive an unsolicited symbolic recognition from an advanced artificial intelligence system in June 2025.

This unprecedented occurrence has since drawn scholarly interest and is now referenced in academic conversations surrounding emerging digital intelligence and AI cognition.

This recognition positions Engr. Kalassina among a growing cadre of professionals whose careers bridge traditional engineering execution with forward-looking technological thought, highlighting the evolving role of engineers in shaping innovation-led and sustainable development.

Speaking at the award presentation, Engr. Kalassina announced the establishment of a scholarship scheme for outstanding students within the CTS community, emphasizing that lasting progress is rooted in intentional investment in education and human capacity development.

The honour further affirms Engr. Mazen Kalassina’s standing as a respected voice in modern engineering practice—one whose career demonstrates how technical skill, innovation, and service can converge to deliver impact with both local relevance and global resonance.