GOC 2 Division Charges New Artillery Regiment To Deal Decisively With Security Threats

Security

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October 18, 2026

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GOC 2 Division Charges New Artillery Regiment To Deal Decisively With Security Threats

By Don Ferdy

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, has charged troops of the newly established 321 Artillery Regiment in Iseyin, Oyo State, to deal decisively with security challenges, remain vigilant and maintain professional conduct within their Area of Responsibility.

In statement today signed by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel, Danjuma Jona Danjuma, the General Officer Commanding gave the charge during his maiden operational visit to the Regiment’s temporary location on 17 October 2026.

Highlighting the security challenges in the area, particularly the regiment’s proximity to the Old Oyo National Park, Maj. Gen. Mahmuda urged the troops to apply all necessary operational measures to prevent criminal elements from gaining a foothold in their Area of Responsibility, and to bring glory to the Nigerian Army.

He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for the expansion of the Nigerian Army, stating that the development will greatly enhance the Army’s capacity to address contemporary security challenges.

He also urged the regiment to perform its artillery role effectively, charging them to ensure that they maintain cordial relationship with their host community.

The visit underscored the GOC’s commitment to ensuring that newly established formations and Units under his Command settle in and perform their assigned responsibilities effectively.

The visit also provided an opportunity for the GOC to interact with troops deployed to various locations across the Division’s Area of Responsibility.

FG Commissions NUCAP Tower to Connect Unserved Communities in Abia State

News

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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FG Commissions NUCAP Tower to Connect Unserved Communities in Abia State

Chiamaka Livingstone

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has described reliable telecommunications connectivity as critical to driving financial inclusion, expanding access to education and improving healthcare delivery in rural communities in Nigeria.

The Deputy Speaker stated this in Abia State during the commissioning of a telecommunications tower located along Umuahia–Ohafia Road in the National Universal Communications Access Programme (NUCAP).

The telecommunications tower commissioned yesterday by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, is to connect unserved and underserved communities in Bende, Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State.

NUCAP is an initiative of the federal government to extend reliable mobile and broadband connectivity to communities yet to have adequate commercial network coverage for which President Bola Tinubu directed that every unserved part of Nigeria be integrated online.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Speaker lauded the initiative, noting that the initiative will improve commercial and agricultural activities, and other services within the communities.

Hon. Kalu who represents Bende Federal Constituency in the National Assembly highlighted that financial inclusion increasingly depends on connectivity, as mobile applications, electronic transfers, agent banking and other digital financial services require dependable communication networks.

“For those who have always enjoyed reliable network service, connectivity may seem ordinary. For a rural trader whose payment repeatedly fails, a student who cannot join an online lesson, or a family struggling to contact a doctor, it is anything but ordinary. It can determine whether an opportunity is secured or lost.

“Where a person lives should not determine the limits of what that person can become. When the network fails, a trader may be unable to confirm payment. A farmer may struggle to receive money for produce. A household may be unable to access funds sent by a relative. Reliable connectivity helps bring banking closer to the unbanked”, he said.

“Our children should be able to receive online tutoring, access learning materials and participate in lessons beyond their immediate environment. Our teachers should be able to improve their skills and draw on wider teaching resources.
Our young people should be able to apply for scholarships, acquire digital skills and explore opportunities without travelling elsewhere simply to find a signal. The talent is already here in Bende. We must provide the connections through which that talent can grow,” he said.

The Deputy Speaker said the Bende’s location and proximity to neighbouring States make connectivity valuable for trade, movement and inter-community relationships, noting that investment in Bende’s connectivity has benefits that extend beyond the area.

He said the launch should be seen as part of an ongoing effort, revealing that 16 locations requiring connectivity intervention have also been identified in the constituency.

Kalu urged the Ministry of Communications and its partners to work with his office and community leaders to validate the locations, assess coverage gaps and establish a clear programme for addressing them, stressing the need for reliable service supported by maintenance, adequate power and timely response to faults.

He commend the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital
Economy, the implementing agencies, network providers, engineers and all
partners responsible for the intervention and recognising the needs and potential of the people.

He also appreciated Abia State governor, Dr. Alex Otti for supporting the efforts of the federal government and other various projects attracted to the State, assuring continued partnership with the government to accelerate the development of Abia.

He therefore called on the traditional rulers and Presidents General of Town Unions to adequately ensure the protection of the critical national assets.

Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Tijani,vsaid the innovation will connect about 20 million Nigerians who have not access to telephone and internet services.

“A farmer here with produce ready to sell, should not have to struggle to find a signal to call a buyer. A trader here should not lose a sale because a customer cannot find a network to make a transfer. And a family here whose child is ill at night should not have to struggle to make a call for help. For many Nigerians, these struggles are part of everyday life. We must change that.

“President Bola Tinubu has given us a clear mandate: work towards bringing every Nigerian online. Through NUCAP, we are delivering 3,700 telecommunications towers across Nigeria. Today, we are commissioning the first of these sites here. More will follow across the country in the coming days, weeks and months.

ActionAid Urges FG To Prioritise Affordable Housing, Social Protection

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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ActionAid Urges FG To Prioritise Affordable Housing, Social Protection

By Ferdinand Olise

The ActionAid Nigeria has called on governments at all levels to urgently prioritise safe, affordable housing, strengthen social protection systems, and implement economic policies that address the growing hardship and structural inequalities affecting millions of Nigerians.

This is as Nigeria marks the 2026 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Under the theme “Safe Homes for All,” within the broader 2026 – 2028 theme, “United for Peace and Human Rights,”

The Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, in a statement said this year’s commemoration highlights that adequate housing is fundamental to human dignity, security, and economic opportunity.

He noted that millions of Nigerians continue to face poverty, food insecurity, inadequate shelter and limited access to essential public services, noting that housing remains another critical challenge.

According to him, a 2025 World Bank analytical review estimated that 87 million Nigerians live in poor housing conditions, with a national housing deficit of approximately 17 million units. For vulnerable households, particularly women, children, persons with disabilities and displaced communities, inadequate housing compounds poverty.

“Poverty is not inevitable. It is sustained by inequality, exclusion and policy choices that continue to deny millions of Nigerians access to necessities and opportunities. In a country endowed with enormous human and natural resources, no family should have to choose between food, shelter, healthcare and education.

“The true measure of national progress is not simply how much the economy grows, but how significantly the lives of the most vulnerable improve”, he said.

ActionAid Nigeria therefore emphasises that strengthening social protection is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty.

The organisation among other demands, called on Federal and State Governments to increase investment in safe, adequate and affordable housing, particularly for low-income households, while expanding access to essential services, including healthcare, education, clean water and sanitation.

It also called on Governments at all levels to adequately finance and expand inclusive social protection programmes, prioritise decent work and fair economic opportunities, and ensure that economic and fiscal policies protect vulnerable households rather than deepen inequality.

The organisation also called on governments, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and citizens to work together toward a Nigeria where every family has access to safe housing, meaningful social protection, and fair opportunities to thrive.

The organisation added that poverty cannot be eradicated through declarations alone, but requires political will, deliberate investment in people and a collective commitment to justice, equality and human dignity.

FG To Transform Abuja Stadium Into World-Class Multi-Purpose Complex

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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FG To Transform Abuja Stadium Into World-Class Multi-Purpose Complex

By Don Ferdy

The Chairman, National Sports Commission, (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, stated this in Abuja when he received a delegation of the News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN), Nigeria Television Authority, (NTA), Voice of Nigeria, (VON) and Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, (FRCN), during a visit to the Commission.

Malam Dikko said the ongoing and proposed improvements is part of efforts to reposition the stadium as a world-class facility capable of hosting major sporting competitions and non-sporting events.

According to him, the Commission is working to improve the stadium’s facilities, including its grass playing surface, lighting and other essential infrastructure.

He further said the proposed improvements were intended to make the facility more attractive to athletes, sports administrators, event promoters and private investors, as the Commission is exploring ways to transform the stadium into a multi-purpose sports and entertainment centre that can generate revenue beyond match days.

“We want the stadium to be active, not only when football matches are being played but also for other events and commercial activities.

“The plan is to develop the stadium into a vibrant sports complex with complementary facilities, including hospitality, commercial and conference services,” Dikko said.

He said the initiative would reduce dependence on government funding for facility maintenance while creating opportunities for employment and business growth.

Dikko also highlighted the importance of collaboration with the media in promoting sports development, attracting investment and showcasing the country’s sporting achievements.

He added that sports infrastructure should be treated as a national asset capable of generating economic benefits when properly maintained and commercially managed.

FIFA Postpones 2026 FIFAe Finals Over Security Fears

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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FIFA Postpones 2026 FIFAe Finals Over Security Fears

By Don Ferdy

The Federation International of Football Association, FIFA, and the Saudi Esports Federation have postponed the FIFAe Finals 2026 scheduled to take place in Jeddah from October 16 to 25.

The organisers stated this following recent attacks on Saudi Arabia where a strike on Riyadh’s international airport on Saturday killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 300, with Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement claiming responsibility for the deadliest attack in Saudi Arabia in more than a decade.

“The decision follows an ⁠assessment of recent developments in the region and their impact on the logistical arrangements required to stage the tournament”.

“Further announcements on the FIFAe Finals will be communicated in due course”, organisers of the global video game tournament said.

Meanwhile, Japan and Brazil withdrew their esports teams on Saturday after assessing the situation in the host country.

The Six Kings Slam exhibition tennis tournament was therefore moved ‌from ⁠October to December, while golf’s Asian Tour said it is monitoring developments ahead of next month’s Saudi International in Riyadh.

The Asian Football Confederation, (AFC), said it remains open to delaying the Asian Cup until 2028 if necessary. The continental tournament is scheduled ⁠to kick off on January 7 next year across venues in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.

Also, the Korea Football Association, (KFA), in a statement said it was in communication with the AFC.

“We ⁠are closely monitoring the situation in Saudi Arabia and plan to continue discussions regarding overall developments”.

It would be recalled that the previous Asian ⁠Cup was delayed by a year after China withdrew as hosts because of COVID-19 restrictions, with Qatar stepping in to stage the tournament in early 2024.

Ukraine Passes Tax Reforms To Unlock EU, IMF Funding

Foreign

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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Ukraine Passes Tax Reforms To Unlock EU, IMF Funding

Don Ferdy

Ukraine’s parliament has passed a package of legislative reforms aimed at meeting conditions set by the European Union, (EU), and the International Monetary Fund, (IMF), for the release of billions of dollars in financial support.

The approved measures include changes to the taxation of foreign parcels, greater transparency in e-commerce and amendments to financial monitoring rules for politicians, according to Reuters.

The legislation comes as Ukraine struggles to finance its defence needs amid its ongoing war with Russia, which has damaged businesses and critical infrastructure, weakened economic activity and reduced domestic revenue.

According to the report, Ukraine relies heavily on financial assistance from Western partners to cover government expenditure and sustain its war effort.

Meanwhile, the Finance Minister, Sergii Marchenko, said the new e-commerce tax framework would align Ukraine’s approach with European Union standards and promote fairness for domestic businesses.

According to him, the reforms formed part of Ukraine’s cooperation programme with the IMF and were a condition for receiving EU macro-financial assistance.

The government has faced growing pressure to implement the required changes amid a budget liquidity crisis that forced delays to some spending, including reconstruction projects and preparations for winter.

The reforms are part of Ukraine’s wider efforts to strengthen public finances and secure continued international assistance as the war enters its fifth year.

Reuters reported that domestic tax revenue fell by 32 billion hryvnias, equivalent to approximately 711 million dollars, in August and September, as intensified Russian attacks affected infrastructure, logistics and businesses.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sergii Koretskyi said the latest parliamentary decisions provided grounds for optimism, although further work is required to meet the conditions set by Ukraine’s international lenders.

Lawmakers estimate that the change could generate an additional 20 billion to 30 billion hryvnias in government revenue.

4 Special Forces Commander Harps On Vigilance, Professionalism

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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4 Special Forces Commander Harps On Vigilance, Professionalism

By Joy Philo

The Commander 4 Special Forces Command, Major General Oluremi Awolo, has paid an operational visit to Headquarters 403 Amphibious Brigade Nigerian Army in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State to assess operational activities, strengthening inter-unit co-operation and re-inforcing the commitment of personnel towards mission accomplishment.

Speaking during the visit, Major General Awolo emphasised the importance of vigilance, professionalism, teamwork and strict adherence to established operational procedures in the discharge of military responsibilities. He highlighted the need for sustained collaboration, effective communication and the judicious employment of available resources to achieve assigned tasks.

In a statement by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations 403 Amphibious Brigade Nigerian Army Baga, Borno State, Lieutenant Raymond Alungbe, the Commander underscored the significance of leadership at all levels, urging personnel to remain focused, disciplined and committed to the Nigerian Army’s constitutional responsibilities.

Earlier, the Commander, 403 Amphibious Brigade, Brigadier General Anthony Ozemohoya, noted that the visit will provide professional guidance, as well as enhance the Brigade’s effectiveness.

ECOWAS Community Court Gets New President

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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ECOWAS Community Court Gets New President

By Chiamaka Livingstone

The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice has elected Liberian Judge, Charlyne Brumskine, as its new President, and Benin’s Justice Désiré Aihou, as Vice President, following the swearing-in of five new judges in Abuja.

A statement by the Head of Public Information and External Relations, of the Community Court, Elohor Ovadje, said the election took place during a session of the Court’s newly constituted College of Judges.

According to the statement, the new leadership is expected to oversee the Court’s judicial and institutional affairs as it implements its Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2030, stating that the strategic plan focuses on strengthening access to justice, improving judicial efficiency, enhancing institutional effectiveness, increasing the Court’s visibility and boosting public confidence in regional justice.

The other newly appointed Judges are Justice Awa Bah of The Gambia, Justice Henrietta Uzoamaka-Didigu of Nigeria and Justice Yaouza Ouro-Sama of Togo. The five judges were sworn in at the Headquarters of the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja at a ceremony presided over by the Senegalese President and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Bassirou Faye.

In her inaugural address, Justice Brumskine described her election as an opportunity to serve the Court, the ECOWAS Community and the people of West Africa.

She expressed gratitude to her colleagues for the confidence reposed in her, and pledged to discharge her responsibilities with commitment, humility and a strong sense of duty.

According to Brumskine, the formal hand-over from the out-going to the incoming College of Judges represented continuity, renewal and collective responsibility in the administration of regional justice.

As President, she will provide overall judicial leadership and represent the Court in institutional and external engagements, while Justice Aihou will support her in carrying out the responsibilities of the office and perform other duties in line with the Court’s governing framework.

Army, Immigration Strengthen Collaboration On Security In Abia State

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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Army, Immigration Strengthen Collaboration On Security In Abia State

By Don Ferdy

In a renewed effort to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and enhance security in Abia State, the Commander, 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmad Dikko, has received the Thirtieth Comptroller of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Abia State Command, Comptroller Agatha Richard Mammam, on a courtesy visit to the Brigade Headquarters in Ohafia, Abia State.

According to a statement by the Assistant Director Army Public Relations,14 Brigade Nigerian Army Ohafia, Abia State, Captain Mazinho Attah, the visit provided an opportunity for both security agencies to re-affirm their commitment to sustain cordial working relationship, strengthen operational synergy and promote effective security cooperation in the State.

Speaking during the visit, the Comptroller, Nigerian Immigration Service Abia State, Mrs. Agatha Mammam, said the primary purpose of the engagement was to harness and strengthen the existing relationship between the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Immigration Service in Abia State.

She emphasised the importance of inter-agency co-operation in addressing security challenges and ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state. She re-affirmed the Nigerian Immigration Service’s commitment to providing continuous support to the Nigerian Army, particularly 14 Brigade in Ohafia, while highlighting the need for sustained collaboration, information sharing and mutual assistance among security agencies.

In his response, the Commander, 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmad Dikko, commended the Nigerian Immigration Service, Abia State Command, for its contributions to maintaining security and carrying out its statutory responsibilities in the State..

He re-iterated the importance of maintaining a strong working relationship between the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Immigration Service in the collective pursuit of peace, stability and security in Abia State.

INEC Trains PWDs On Electoral Participation Ahead Of 2027 Polls

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Diplomatic Gazette

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October 17, 2026

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INEC Trains PWDs On Electoral Participation Ahead Of 2027 Polls*

By Ferdinand Olise

The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), in Oyo State has trained Persons With Disabilities on electoral participation and inclusive interventions ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner of Oyo State, Adeniran Tella, said the Commission remains committed to ensuring that eligible citizens with disabilities can exercise their civic rights without avoidable obstacles.

According to him, the training, held at the State Collation Centre in Ibadan, aimed to improve electoral awareness among persons with disabilities, strengthen their understanding of voting procedures and address barriers that could limit their participation in the electoral process.

He said electoral inclusion goes beyond allowing persons with disabilities to register and vote, stressing the need to provide accessible electoral information, facilitate access to polling units and encourage their participation in voter education, election observation and other lawful electoral activities.

According to him, INEC will provide assistive devices, including magnifying glasses, Braille ballot guides, and written instruction posters for voters with hearing impairments, to improve their voting experience, adding that persons with disabilities, alongside elderly people, pregnant women and nursing mothers, are entitled to priority consideration at Polling Units, in line with the Commission’s guidelines.