NEWS
Military Destroys 897 Illegal Refining Sites in Q3 – DHQ
By David Torough, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said the troops of Operation Delta Safe destroyed 897 illegal refining sites across the Niger Delta region in the third quarter of the year.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known while briefing newsmen on the operations of the armed forces, on Thursday in Abuja.
Buba said the troops also destroyed 370 wooden boats and recovered 48 assorted weapons and 672 assorted ammunitions during the period.
He said the troops also apprehended 447 persons involved in crude oil theft and rescued 48 kidnapped hostages as well as recovery of 12.1 million litres of stolen crude oil; 2.
6 million litres of AGO; 6,970 litres of DPK and 31,450 litres of PMS.According to him, troops of Operation Delta Safe maintained the momentum against the activities of crude oil theft during the third quarter of the year.
“The air component conducted air interdictions on several illegal crude oil refining sites during the period, destroying over 100 of such sites, boats, vehicles among other equipment,” he said.
In the South East, Buba said troops of Operation UDO ΚΑ, neutralised 180 combatants, apprehended 354 IPOB/ESN criminals and rescued 148 kidnapped hostages.
He said the troops recovered 28 AK47 rifles, 44 pump action guns, 58 assorted arms, 3,456 rounds of 7.62mm special, among others.
According to him, troops apprehended high profile members of IPOB/ESN at Agwu Local Government Area of Enugu State and several others who he said were assisting in ongoing investigation.
Buba said the ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the country had prioritised the killing of terrorist leadership and the destruction of terror infrastructure.
“Accordingly, troops are effectively attacking terrorist leaders, commanders, combatants, as well as their rank and file operatives.
“All through the stretch of the third quarter of the year, synchronised bombardment by air and ground forces significantly diminished terrorist military capabilities and network.
“On the whole, troops are keeping pressure on terrorist until they are totally defeated. We are focussed on destroying both their military capability as well as their will to fight of the terrorist. Lastly, we are attacking any threat we identify, and removing it.” he said.
NEWS
Wike Appoints Pioneer FCT Head of Service SSA Administration
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike has appointed the pioneer FCT Head of Civil Service, Dr Udo Atang, as his Senior Special Assistant on Administration (SSA Administration).
Mr Anthony Ogunleye, Director of Press, Office of the FCT Minister, in a statement in Abuja on Friday, said that the appointment is effective immediately.
Ogunleye described Atang as a seasoned administrator, with a wealth of experience in public service, governance, and administration.
He added that Atang’s expertise had been instrumental in driving various reforms and initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of government operations.
He said that Atang, a fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria, would work closely with the FCT Minister in overseeing key administrative functions within the administration.
The director added that Atang would equally ensure seamless coordination of activities, and provide strategic advisory support to the minister.
Further details show that Atang has held various senior administrative and strategic positions in the FCT Administration, culminating in his appointment as the pioneer Head of Service of the FCTA in March 2024.
His tenure as Head of Service was extended for six months by President Bola Tinubu on reaching the retirement age of 60 on March 27, 2024.
The appointment as SSA Administration came when he is officially bowing out of office as the FCT Head of Service today (Friday).
Atang, who hails from Eket local Government Area of Akwa-Ibom was born on March 27, 1964.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History obtained from the University of Calabar in 1987 and began his working career in the defunct Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory in 1989. (NAN)
NEWS
CAN celebrates Oyedepo @70
By Laide Akinboade, Abuja
On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend heartfelt congratulations to the founder and presiding bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel), Bishop David Oyedepo, as he celebrates his remarkable 70th birthday.
In a statement issued by CAN, signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and made available to media in Abuja.
The statement reads in parts, “As we honour Bishop Oyedepo today, we acknowledge his profound impact on the Christian community in Nigeria and beyond.
His unwavering commitment to the Gospel and his visionary leadership have inspired millions to seek a deeper relationship with God. Through his ministry, he has not only transformed lives spiritually but has also contributed significantly to educational development, economic empowerment, and social upliftment.“In these challenging times, marked by socio-economic instability and increasing insecurity, Bishop Oyedepo’s teachings on faith, prosperity, and resilience have provided hope and direction for many. His steadfastness in preaching the message of love, unity, and faith reinforces the essential role of the Church in addressing the pressing issues facing our nation.
“As we reflect on the current realities of our society, we are reminded that the Church must remain a beacon of hope, promoting peace and reconciliation among diverse communities. Bishop Oyedepo’s emphasis on the Word of God as a foundation for living has become even more relevant, urging us to stand firm in our beliefs and to be agents of change in our communities.
“We celebrate not only his achievements but also his unwavering dedication to the Great Commission, encouraging believers to spread the message of Christ’s love. His life is a shining example of the power of faith in action, and we pray that God continues to grant him strength, wisdom, and grace in many years ahead.
“As he enters this new decade, we pray that God will bless him abundantly and that his ministry will continue to flourish, bringing light to those in darkness and hope to the hopeless.
” Once again, congratulations to Bishop David Oyedepo on this significant milestone. May the Lord bless you richly”.
NEWS
BREAKING: Education Minister’s phone number hacked
By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The office of the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has announced that the hacking of the Minister’s WhatsApp number.
This was contained in a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Folasade Boriowo.
According to the statement, the Minister’s number is currently being used by unauthorized individuals.
“We wish to inform the general public that the Minister’s WhatsApp number has been hacked and is currently being used by unauthorized individuals.
We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause and urge everyone to disregard any message of request received from the said number until further notice.“The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities and is under investigation. We advise all members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity”, the statement said.