Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has raised concerns over the Nigerian Army’s insufficient equipment in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents. According to him, the insurgents are now leveraging advanced technology, putting Nigerian soldiers at a disadvantage.

“Recently, I met with the Chief of Army Staff who revealed that the Army needs 32 drones to effectively combat the insurgency,” Zulum said. “Each drone costs about $5.5 million. We must pool resources to acquire them and prioritize national security.”

The governor also stressed the importance of transparent procurement processes. “We need to focus on direct, government-to-government procurement of military equipment, both hardware and software, to ensure value for money,” he said. “Contractors often fail to deliver when funds are handed over to them.”

Zulum called for unity and cooperation between the federal and state governments. “If we are truly committed, this insurgency can be ended in six months. We must not politicize security issues. The Federal Government must listen and act.”

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as transformative efforts that have led to a significant reduction in poverty across Northern Nigeria, particularly in the North-West region.

Speaking on the impact of federal government interventions under the current administration, Governor Sani noted that prior to President Tinubu’s tenure, poverty levels in the region were alarmingly high, with estimates ranging between 65 and 70 percent.

“Over the last two years, President Tinubu has initiated key reforms and strategic interventions that go far beyond short-term relief measures,” the governor stated. “We are not merely referring to palliatives — we are talking about deep, structural support that addresses the root causes of poverty.”

Governor Sani emphasized that no administration in recent memory has committed as robustly to agricultural development as that of President Tinubu. He highlighted various initiatives, including extensive fertilizer distribution, financial assistance to smallholder farmers, and large-scale monetary support allocated without political bias.

“These initiatives have not only boosted agricultural productivity but have also contributed to job creation, improved rural infrastructure, and the overall reduction of poverty in many communities,” he added.

The governor concluded by asserting that these targeted interventions are laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and social inclusion, especially in underserved and rural areas.

The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has disclosed that it has spent more than N300 million to secure the release of kidnapped members, with negotiations ongoing for the release of around 50 others, according to a report by The Nation.

The church revealed that its members in Kaduna and Plateau States have become prime targets for kidnappers. In a press briefing held in Jos, ECWA General Secretary, Rev. Ayuba Asheshe, expressed deep concern over the growing wave of violence affecting the church community.

Asheshe highlighted the alarming rise in banditry, kidnappings, and militia attacks, calling for urgent and coordinated action from the government and relevant stakeholders to address the crisis.

He pointed to the Kwassam DCC in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State as one of the hardest-hit areas, where persistent attacks have claimed more than 20 lives. Despite paying over N300 million in ransoms, he said, more than 50 people are still being held captive — a situation that has placed a heavy financial and emotional burden on the church and affected families, many of whom have lost their means of livelihood.

He also noted that the Binawa LCC of ECWA Saminaka DCC in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State has experienced similar attacks in recent weeks.