By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the weekend, condemned the brutal attacks and persistent violence inflicted upon communities in states such as Plateau, Benue and Gombe.This was contained in a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh,President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), in Abuja.

The CAN President said Nigerian Christians remain commited to advocating for safety, security, and dignity and will continue to pursue justice and lasting peace for all affected communities. Archbishop Okoh, therefore urged Nigerians from all walks of life, backgrounds, and faiths to support ongoing peace initiatives and refrain from actions that could undermine efforts to address the country’s security challenges, particularly in the Middle Belt region. He said, “Engagements with stakeholders across professional, ethnic, and religious lines are recognised diplomatic practices that foster dialogue and mutual understanding. Any actions or statements that heighten tensions risk destabilising our nation, and we therefore call for the utmost caution”.3. He said CAN as a body won’t stop condemning the senseless killings occurring across various parts of Nigeria through official press statements, and remain resolute in speaking out against violence targeting any community. “Furthermore, we have undertaken visits to affected areas, including parts of Plateau State, to express solidarity, offer condolences, and distribute palliatives. In the days ahead, we will continue with further visits to provide support, comfort, and much-needed relief to those impacted, highlighting our commitment to standing by our communities in times of distress.”We appeal to all citizens to refrain from spreading unverified information that may deepen divisions. The strength of our nation lies in our unity, and it is only through collective effort that we can build a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. Let us embrace the teachings of the Holy Bible to love our neighbours and the pursue peace with all.”CAN encourages open and honest dialogue among all stakeholders, both local and international, including the United States, through the presence of Ambassador Richard Mills. In addition, we believe that trusted platforms like the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) provide the ideal space to raise concerns and work together towards practical, sustainable solutions”, he said.He also reaffirms the association unwavering dedication to promoting peace, unity, and understanding across the nation. And collaborate with all parties to ensure the safety, security and well-being of all Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnicity.

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Ibaka, Akwa Ibom, has arrested two suspects trafficking 500 kilos of pangolin scales worth N25 million from Cameroon to Nigeria.

The Commanding Officer, Capt. Aliyu Abdullah, stated this while handing over the suspects and the items to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in Ibaka on Saturday.

Abdullahi said that the suspects were arrested on routine patrol around Tom Shot Island on Thursday.

“The arrest was made during routine-stop-and-search of boats transiting from Cameroon to Nigeria,” he said.

He stated that Pangolins are a critically endangered species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Abdullahi noted that smuggling of products derived from endangered animals, such as pangolin scales, across International maritime borders constituted a serious violation of both International and domestic legal frameworks.

“They play a vital role in their ecosystem, however, their population has been decimated due to high demand for scales and meat particularly in black markets across Asia and Africa,” Abdullahi said.

The commanding officer said the shipment of scales was believed to be destined to a port in Lagos for smuggling out of Nigeria to markets in Asia.

“It breaches the convention on CITES, which prohibits the commercial trade of endangered species and their derivatives.

“Both Nigeria and Cameroon are signatories to this convention.”

Abdullahi said that the Navy, under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla would continue to tackle all forms of illegal activities within the waterways, thereby improving the National image of Nigeria Internationally.

Receiving the suspects, items and boat, Deputy Superintendent of Customs, Dada Fagbola, said that the suspects would be investigated for necessary prosecution

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has awarded scholarships to 12  academically outstanding but financially disadvantaged indigents students across its Bauchi Zone.

The Bauchi Zone includes: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) Bauchi.

Others are Gombe State University, Federal University Kashere, University of Jos and Plateau State University Bokkos.

During the presentation held at the ASUU Secretariat, SAZU Bauchi on Saturday, the 12 beneficiaries received cheques worth ₦200,000 each from the national body of the Union.

Prof. Christopher Piwuna, Convener of the ASUU Grant, Research and Publications Committee was represented by Prof.

Lawan Abubakar, the immediate past Zonal Coordinator.

Piwuna explained that the scholarships aimed to support brilliant students who were hindered by financial hardship.

“This initiative was born out of the need to counter the government’s rising imposition of school charges, which continues to burden students and their families,” he said.

Piwuna added that ASUU believed that such financial aid should be a grant, not a loan, noting: “We don’t expect any repayment from the beneficiaries or their parents.”

Prof. Namo Aku, the Zonal Coordinator, said that while the national body supported 12 students, the six universities in the zone collectively sponsored  additional 18 indigenous students.

“ATBU and Gombe State University sponsored five students each, Plateau University and University of Jos sponsored two each, while SAZU and Federal University Kashere sponsored two students apiece,” he said.

Aku emphasized that ASUU’s mission includes supporting the less privileged through collective contributions from lecturers who are passionate about students’ success.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Bappa Salisu, a Pharmacy student at SAZU, expressed gratitude to the Union.

“We are deeply thankful for this opportunity. It motivates us to work harder and live up to the expectations of those who believe in us,” he said