Born to Reproduce

 Born to Reproduce

Ignorance

Not abiding in Christ

Disobedience

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Day 1

So, what does this fruit look like? Good fruit is seen in a change in our disposition, attitudes, affections, and actions. Those sins which we formerly loved become loathsome to us (Romans 6:21). We begin to love others with the love of Christ (John 13:34–35). We more easily forgive (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13). As we are given opportunity, we seek to do good to everyone (Galatians 6:9–10). We exercise our spiritual gifts for the building up of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4:11–16). We share the good news of salvation and make disciples (Matthew 28:18–20). We are grateful and give praise to God (Colossians 3:15). We seek to do all things for God's glory (Colossians 3:17). We confess our sins to God and pray for His continual work in us (1 John 1:9; Philippians 1:6). We strive to know God and to do the things which please Him, knowing that we can bear no true fruit apart from Him (John 15:1–12).

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Changed character 

Day 2

Being a fruitful Christian is not accomplished by checking off a "to do" list but by having our essential being and character changed, renewed, and progressively conformed to the image and likeness of Christ (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18). To be fruitful means to follow Christ. To love what He loves. To do what He commands from a loving motive and with a joyful spirit. This obedience is both predestined by and empowered by God Himself which removes any grounds for boasting in how fruitful our lives or ministries become (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 1:28–31). It is by God's grace and our abiding in Christ that we produce good fruit (John 15:4–5). The fruit is good because God is good and we ascribe all the glory to Him for it (Philippians 1:11).None of us is ever free from sin; sometimes we succumb to temptation. When God shows us our sin, we need to repent and receive His forgiveness—like weeding the garden. We should guard against new sinful habits just as we are vigilant against invading pests. If we guard our roots and shoots and deal with sin, God will bear fruit through us

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Day 3

A TREE WITHOUT FRUIT 

Jesus’ parable of the barren fig tree was given in the context of a wider discussion. A group of Jews had approached Jesus and told Him about the death of some Galileans who were in the wrong place at the wrong time. An insurrection had arisen in Jerusalem, and the Roman governor Pilate had quelled the uprising with violence. On one occasion, his soldiers had invaded the precincts of the temple and cut down some Galilean pilgrims who were in the very act of bringing their sacrifices. The Jews regarded all calamity as the judgment of God incurred because of the suff erer’s sin. The group of Jews who believed they were the most favored by God described this event with secret satisfaction. They presumed that these Galileans had deserved this calamity. Jesus discerned their elitist mindset and explained that the poor Galileans were no greater sinners than any others. He appealed to all those listening to repent. Through this parable, Jesus sought to make the Jews aware of the privileges and responsibilities they had as a nation. We are accountable for the lives we live on earth. We cannot afford to live it anyhow. Nobody comes to this world by accident. God’s master plan has a definite purpose and role for us to play. That purpose must be fulfilled, if we are to bear fruits. Our Lord Jesus calls us to a productive and effective life in the different areas of endeavour we have been called to operate in.

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Day 4

A PROSPEROUS LIFE 

Psalm 1 compares the righteous person to a fruit-bearing tree planted by a river: “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper” (Ps. 1:2, 3). Bearing fruit is linked with prospering in life, and this is connected to delighting in God’s commandments. When we view the Ten Commandments as ten promises of what God wants to do in our lives, we will experience an abundant life full of purpose and true happiness. Jesus summed up the Ten Commandments in two commandments: love God and love your neighbor (Matt. 22:37–40). Our interactions with others will reveal a true love for God. We receive love from Him and share this love with those we meet. The fruit of the Christian life includes our character—what the Bible calls the fruit of the Spirit. ((Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23).)) Fruit is also the result of our service to others. When we pray for people, care for them, counsel them, and encourage them, or when we share the good news of Jesus with an unbeliever, the fruit of a changed life can result. Bearing fruit happens every time we help someone to grow as a disciple of Jesus, just as we have grown.

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Day 5

A fruitfuless Life

A fruitful life requires both receiving and giving. On another occasion, Jesus approached a fig tree looking for fruit. Fig trees naturally grow fruit before the leaves open, so this tree in full leaf gave promise of well-developed fruit within it. However, its appearance was deceptive. Upon searching its branches, Jesus found “nothing but leaves” (Mark 11:13). It was a mass of pretentious foliage, nothing more. Jesus pronounced judgment on the tree, saying, “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again” (Mark 11:14). The next day, the fig tree had withered away. A spiritual lesson emerges from this story. We can look good on the outside, but only close examination of our lives will reveal if we are bearing any fruit. Many Christians appear religious, but not all who profess the name of Jesus actually reveal Him in their lives. Just like a tree has roots that nourish and sustain the tree, allowing it to bear fruit, so we must abide in Christ. One reason God calls us into local churches is because that is where our growth (or lack of it) becomes visible. In meaningful relationships, who we really are becomes clear. The outward expressions of our inner life are like the shoots of a plant. Are they healthy, or faded and disfigured? Is my life becoming more like Jesus’ life or not? One mark of growth is our willingness to forgive others when they hurt or offend us. Do we live life to serve and bless others? Our choices should increasingly reflect godly thinking.

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NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Day 6

 Jesus does everything He possibly can to develop His character in us. The owner and the dresser of the vineyard are one in their interest in the fig tree. So the Father and the Son were one in their love for the chosen people. Christ was saying to His hearers that increased opportunities would be given them. Every means that the love of God could devise would be put in operation that they might become trees of righteousness, bringing forth fruit for the blessing of the world. Jesus spares no effort to help His people flourish so they can give to the world what they have received from Him. He declared that the gospel will go into all the world as a witness before the end comes (Matt. 24:14). This means that the gospel will be both lived and preached by God’s people. God’s blessings must be both proclaimed and experienced. 

We receive so we can give. Fortunately, Jesus does not easily give up on His chosen people. After the disciple Peter had been with Jesus for three and a half years, he still had a lot to learn and unlearn. When under pressure, he capitulated and denied Jesus three times. Still, Jesus did not cast Peter away. He saw the potential of what Peter could become once restored. Jesus predicted Simon Peter’s fall but added, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren” (Luke 22:31, 32). Peter confessed his sin, and Jesus restored him so he could bear fruit to God’s glory. Christ’s mercy, compassion, and power made Peter into a mighty apostle. The gospels recount many stories of Jesus giving people second chances and new opportunities to bear fruit. Through all our ups and downs, Jesus is not just idly waiting until we get our act together. 

He is investing in us, just like the vinedresser nourished the tree. He does everything in His power to save us and make us witnesses to others. The book of Acts tells the story of Paul and Barnabas as they set out on their fi rst missionary journey. They took a young man named John Mark with them. Because of the diffi culties and trials the three men faced, John Mark abandoned the mission. Later, he reconsidered and expressed his desire to rejoin the two apostles on another mission trip. While Paul emphatically denied the young man a second chance, Barnabas was ready to take John Mark under his wing once again. Though Paul and Barnabas parted because of this very issue (Acts 15:39), Paul later acknowledged that John Mark became a useful disciple (2 Tim. 4:11). The name Barnabas means “son of encouragement.” Like the vinedresser, Barnabas was patient with John Mark, despite his early discouragement and burnout. Thanks to the encouragement received from Barnabas, John Mark again became a fruitful worker for God. 

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Day 7

THIS YEAR ALSO 

“In the parable the dresser of the vineyard does not question the sentence that the tree, if it remained fruitless, should be cut down; but he knows and shares the owner’s interest in that barren tree. Nothing could give him greater joy than to see its growth and fruitfulness. He responds to the desire of the owner, saying, ‘Let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it and dung it; and if it bear fruit, well.’ “The gardener does not refuse to minister to so unpromising a plant. He stands ready to give it still greater care. He will make its surroundings most favorable, and will lavish upon it every attention. To them the solemn warning was given. ‘If not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.’ Upon them it depended whether the irrevocable words should be spoken. The day of wrath was near. God is mercifully forewarning us of the destruction of the unfruitful tree. “The warning sounds down along the line to us in this generation. Are you, O careless heart, a fruitless tree in the Lord’s vineyard? Shall the words of doom are long be spoken of you? How long have you received His gifts? How long has He watched and waited for a return of love? Planted in His vineyard, under the watchful care of the gardener, what privileges are yours! How often has the tender gospel message thrilled your heart! You have taken the name of Christ, you are outwardly a member of the church which is His body, and yet you are conscious of no living connection with the great heart of love. The tide of His life does not flow through you. 

The sweet graces of His character, ‘the fruits of the Spirit,’ are not seen in your life.... “You realize, though it may be but dimly, that you are a cumberer of the ground. Yet in His great mercy God has not cut you down. He does not look coldly upon you. He does not turn away with indifference, or leave you to destruction. Looking upon you He cries, as He cried so many centuries ago concerning Israel, ‘How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? How shall I deliver thee, Israel?... I will not execute the fierceness of Mine anger. I will not return to destroy Ephraim; for I am God, and not man.’ Hosea 11:8, 9. The pitying Saviour is saying concerning you, Spare it this year also, till I shall dig about it and dress it.”

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Why is Jesus so categorical about producing fruits? The response is found in His statement - “I chose you.” The selection was done by Him; therefore it was not done at random. It was done with the knowledge of what each and every one is capable of accomplishing. We get to know Jesus who is ‘the Way and the Truth and the Life’ (John 14:6) because God has allowed it. “…no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him.” (John 6:65) Likewise the choice determines the objective for which God created us and for which we have been chosen.

We have not only been chosen but we have also been “appointed to go …” When someone is appointed then s/he is equipped to function in a particular position. That individual is provided with all s/he needs to get the work done. You cannot blame it on your tools, when things go wrong. Our Lord Jesus knows what we need and He provides them so that we might get the work done properly.

In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) our Lord Jesus recounted the story of a man who was to embark on a long journey. Prior to his departure, he called his servants and gave them assignments ‘each according to his ability.’ In the parable of the ten minas, the king summoned ten servants and gave them ten minas each, adding; “Put this money to work until I come back.” (Luke 19:13) On their return some had made good use of the talents and minas they had been given, others not.

Like the seeds sown by the sower in one of our Lord Jesus’ parable (Matthew 13), not every seed sown will develop to yield fruits of sixty, eighty and a hundredfold. The concerns and preoccupations of this world get in the way and productivity drops considerably, expectations likewise. In the same manner, not all who have been chosen to bear fruits will be fruitful.

There is a penalty though for this category of servants. The gardener, who is His Father, will come and “cut off every branch that does not bear fruit…” (John 15:1) For positive results we ought to stay connected to the vine otherwise we shall be likened to a branch “that is thrown away and withers; such branches are cut, thrown into the fire and burned.” (John 15:6) The fruit-bearing vine gets special treatment; it is pruned so it can produce more fruit. Our Lord Jesus instructs that we ‘remain’ in Him. “If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

“Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” (Matthew 7:18)

The Lord is willing to give a second chance to those who do not pull up their socks. “A man had a fig tree, planted in his vineyard and he went to look for fruit on it, but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil? “ ‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilise it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’ ” (Luke 13:6-9) What a verdict! Yes, the axe will come down on any tree that does not bear fruit.

This is the story of our lives. When we seek to carry out our own agenda, we miss the mark and our lives become fruitless and useless because they do not serve the purpose for which God intended it in the first instance. Fruitfulness is a God-pleasing characteristic for every believer. It requires that we remain in Christ, the author and founder of our faith. When we fail to work according to His precepts, to abide in Him, we end up living worthless lives for which we shall be made accountable. Each and every one of us will have to render account on Judgment Day for our accomplishments. There is no way we can escape this.

Our Lord Jesus teaches that “By their fruits we shall know them.” (Matthew 7:16) Our deeds will always catch up with us. We shall be found out in the long or short run. “Do people pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?” (Matthew 7:16) Definitely not! So it is that a good tree will bear good fruit and a bad tree bad fruit. We cannot continue to do things our own way and expect God’s endorsement.

As we take our first steps in the year 2012, may we examine closely the kind of fruit we have borne during 2011 and seek to bear fruit in keeping with the word of God - fruit that will be visible and durable. May they be fruits for which the Father will say: “Well done, good and faithful servant! Come and share your master’s happiness.” (Matthew 25:23) 

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It’s significant that the parable is open-ended. “But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down’ ” (Luke 13:8, 9). The parable ends here, and we never hear what happened after the year ended. We know that ancient Israel as a nation failed to be the example God intended it to be. What about spiritual Israel today? We are all trees planted by the river. God does all He can to connect Himself with us so we can bear fruit. Ultimately, we must allow Him to do this work within us. We will each individually finish this parable

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Sunday Jackson Nigerian Christian Farmer, Sentenced to Death by Hanging for self-Defense against Fulani Herdsmen who wanted to kill him

Sunday Jackson, Nigerian Christian Farmer Who Overpowered and Killed Fulani Herdsmen in Self-Defense, Sentenced to Death by Hanging

..groups call on Christian bodies to rise and defend him

In a controversial legal ruling, Nigerian farmer Sunday Jackson has been sentenced to death by hanging for killing a Fulani herdsman in self-defense.

The incident, which occurred on February 11, 2021, in Adamawa State, involved a violent altercation between Jackson and the herdsman, who allegedly attacked him with a machete. Despite Jackson’s claim that he acted purely in self-defense, the Supreme Court of Nigeria on March 7, 2025, upheld a lower court’s verdict, ruling that he should have fled instead of retaliating after disarming his attacker.

The judgment has sparked outrage and renewed calls for legal reforms, particularly concerning the right to self-defense in life-threatening situations. The Incident: A Fight for Survival According to reports, Sunday Jackson, a farmer from Adamawa State, was working on his farm when a Fulani herdsman attacked him with a machete, intending to kill him. In a desperate struggle, Jackson sustained severe injuries but managed to overpower his attacker.

Acting in self-preservation, he took the machete from the herdsman and stabbed him, resulting in the herdsman’s death.

Shortly after the incident, Jackson was arrested and charged with murder. His defense argued that he had no choice but to fight back to save his own life. However, the court ruled that he was guilty of murder, stating that once Jackson had disarmed his attacker, he should have fled instead of retaliating.

Legal Battle and Supreme Court Verdict

Following his arrest in 2021, Jackson spent four years in detention before his case reached the Supreme Court of Nigeria. In February 2021, the High Court of Yola found him guilty of murder and sentenced him to death by hanging. His legal team immediately appealed the decision, but on March 7, 2025, the Supreme Court upheld the ruling, sealing his fate.

The court’s justification for the verdict was that Jackson, after overpowering his attacker, had the option to escape instead of delivering the fatal blow. This ruling has sparked national and international criticism, with many questioning the application of self-defense laws in Nigeria.

Public Outrage and Calls for Justice The Supreme Court’s verdict has been met with widespread condemnation, particularly from human rights activists, legal experts, and rural communities who have long struggled with attacks by armed herdsmen.

Many believe that Jackson’s conviction highlights biases in the legal system, where victims are often punished more severely than their attackers.

Prominent human rights lawyer Delvin Ogebe expressed deep disappointment in the ruling, stating: “THE JUSTICE SYSTEM HAS FAILED A MAN WHO ACTED PURELY TO SAVE HIS OWN LIFE. THIS DECISION SENDS A DANGEROUS MESSAGE THAT VICTIMS OF VIOLENT ATTACKS HAVE NO RIGHT TO DEFEND THEMSELVES.”

On social media, Nigerians have expressed outrage, with many using hashtags like #JusticeForSundayJackson to demand a review of the case.

Critics argue that Fulani herdsmen have been responsible for countless killings, yet justice is rarely served when the victims are innocent farmers defending their land and lives.

Self-Defense in Nigerian Law:

A Legal Dilemma In most countries, self-defense laws allow individuals to use reasonable force to protect their lives, especially when faced with an immediate and life-threatening attack.

However, the interpretation of self-defense laws in Nigeria remains unclear, particularly in cases where the victim fights back with lethal force. Many legal experts argue that Jackson’s case exposes flaws in the justice system, particularly the assumption that he could have escaped after disarming his attacker.

How realistic is it for a severely injured farmer to run away from a deadly confrontation? Critics say the ruling fails to account for the realities of violent attacks in rural Nigeria, where victims often have no access to law enforcement or immediate help.

What’s Next? Can Jackson Be Saved?

Now that the Supreme Court has ruled, Jackson’s only remaining hope lies in: Presidential clemency from President Bola Tinubu Intervention by human rights organizations such as Amnesty International Legal reviews and possible retrial based on new evidence His legal team is expected to file a petition for clemency, arguing that his actions were a necessary act of survival rather than premeditated murder.

If successful, Jackson could have his sentence commuted to life imprisonment or even overturned.

A Cry for Justice

The case of Sunday Jackson serves as a wake-up call for Nigeria’s legal system. It highlights the plight of rural farmers, the flaws in self-defense laws, and the urgent need for reforms that ensure justice is applied fairly. As Nigeria debates the implications of this ruling, one question remains: Should a man be sentenced to death for defending his life? –

Imo Ezes Warn Unlicensed Native Doctors, Decry Child Trafficking

 The Imo State Police Command has warned unlicensed and “mischievous” native doctors operating in the state to vacate or be ready to face the wrath of the law.

This followed a communiqué issued at the end of an extraor­dinary meeting of traditional rulers in the state, led by Eze Emmanuel Okeke, wherein the monarch mandated all existing native doctors and traditional­ists in the state to come forward for verification and registra­tion.

The command’s spokesman, DSP Henry Okoye, stated this during a quarterly meeting be­tween the police and civil soci­ety organizations in the state, organized by Cleen Foundation, held at the Command’s head­quarters in Owerri over the weekend.

Okoye said the command has, in the past few years, ar­rested over 10 native doctors linked to various crimes, in­cluding kidnapping, ritual kill­ings, armed robbery, and other related offenses. Most of them were arraigned at the conclu­sion of investigations regarding their involvement in the crimes committed.

He said, “Given the recent spate of crimes involving these mischievous native doctors, the Command is warning all those practicing charms or aiding and abetting crimes in the state to vacate immediately.

“We are going to make sure they don’t feel comfortable stay­ing here or conducting their illicit businesses in Imo State. As a Command, we are going to clamp down on them and ensure they face the law accordingly.”

The Imo Police spokesman also expressed concern over the prevalence of child trafficking in the state and urged parents and guardians to be more vig­ilant about the movement and safety of their children.

He disclosed that the Com­mand has arrested over ten child traffickers and rescued eight stolen children, adding, “While the children have been reunited with their families, the suspects have been charged to court and are currently cooling their heels at the Nigeria Cor­rectional Service, Owerri.”

Also, speaking on allegations of the command’s personnel be­ing involved in extortion and other forms of professional mis­conduct, Okoye said, “We have strengthened our disciplinary mechanism to ensure that once these officers are identified, they will face the necessary sanctions.”

Nigerian troops eliminate 82 terrorists, nab 198 others – DHQ

 DHQ said rescued 93 kidnapped hostages and recovered 152 assorted arms and ammunition as well as five magazines.

byAgency Report  February 21, 2025 Reading Time: 2 mins read

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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops have in the last one week eliminated a total of 82 terrorists, nabbed 198 others and rescued 93 kidnapped hostages.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Markus Kangye, a major general, made this known while giving an update on the operations of the military on Friday in Abuja.

Mr Kangye said the troops also recovered 152 assorted arms and ammunition as well as five magazines among others.

He said troops recovered 86 and 2,040 assorted weapons and ammunition comprising 46 AK47 rifles, 18 locally fabricated guns, 19 dane guns, three pump action guns, 1,165 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, and 128 rounds of 7.62mm NATO.

He added that troops also recovered 600 rounds of 7.62 x 12.7mm ammo, 51 cartridges as well as other three assorted arms and 96 assorted ammunitions.

Mr Kangye said the troops apprehended 22 perpetrators of oil theft in the South-south region and foiled oil theft estimated to the tune of about N587 million.

According to him, the breakdown includes: 366,530 litres of stolen crude oil, 117,320 litres of illegally refined AGO and 600 litres of DPK.

“Additionally, troops discovered and destroyed 38 crude oil cooking ovens, 27 dugout pits, 22 boats, teo speedboats, 60 storage tanks, 34 drums and 32 illegal refining sites.

“Other items recovered include three pumping machines, one tricycles, three motorcycles, five mobile phones and two vehicles among others,” he said.

The defence spokesperson said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI recorded the surrender of 41 terrorists comprising 10 adult males, 12 adult females and 19 children within the North-east theatre of operation.

He said the terrorists surrendered with one PKT gun, one AK 47 Rifle with two magazines, one AK 101 Rifle with two magazines, 135 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 59 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammo and 28 rounds of 5.56mm ammo.

According to him, gallant men and women of the armed forces will continue to carry out constitutional responsibilities of protecting lives and properties of all Nigerians in line with our constitutional roles.

Man detained for stabbing Uber driver, stealing car

The Police Command in Lagos State has detained a suspect accused of stabbing an Uber driver and dispossessing him of his car.

The command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident to newsmen on Monday in Lagos.

Hundeyin said that the incident happened on Saturday at 7.34pm, at Ile-Zik in the Agege area of the state.

“An Uber driver reported at Isokoko Division that the suspect boarded his Toyota Camry at Nitel by Old Abeokuta Motor Road, Agege, to Marriott Hotel, GRA, Ikeja.

“On getting to Ile-Zik along the way, the suspect brought out a sharp knife, stabbed him all over his body and stole his vehicle, ” he said.

Hundeyin said that based on the report, a team of policemen later trailed the vehicle to Oshodi where the suspect was intercepted.

“He was immediately apprehended and the vehicle was recovered from him to the station, ” he said.

3m Nigerians in Northwest suffer drug addiction — NDLEA

 The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has revealed that approximately three million people in the North-West geopolitical zone are struggling with drug addiction.

Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, disclosed this on Monday during the flag-off ceremony of the North-West geopolitical zone campaign against illicit drug use in Kaduna.

The NDLEA boss said the sensitisation campaign, themed “Stop Drug Abuse and Domestic Violence in Our Communities,” reflects the commitment to building a society free from the devastating consequences of substance abuse.

The sensitisation programme was facilitated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and organised by the National Orientation Agency in collaboration with the NDLEA.

“We are facing a major public health crisis. The 2018 National Drug Use Survey conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime revealed an alarming reality: 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15 – 64 use psychoactive substances,” Marwa said.

He noted that the North-West zone, comprising seven states— Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto — has been severely affected by drug abuse, with Kano recording the highest prevalence rate at 16%.

“A closer look at the North-West geopolitical zone presents an even more concerning picture. With an estimated population of 25 million in 2016, this zone remains the most populous in Nigeria. The survey estimated that 12% of the region’s population — approximately three million people — are drug users,” Marwa said.

The NDLEA boss emphasised the need for collective action to combat drug abuse, calling on state governments, lawmakers, local authorities, and private stakeholders to partner with the agency to find lasting solutions.

“The success of this campaign requires the support of everyone. Parents, community leaders, traditional rulers, pastors, and imams must strengthen their resolve to prevent drug abuse, support those affected by it, and ensure that drug traffickers face the full force of the law,” he said.

Marwa also disclosed that the NDLEA has established 30 counselling and rehabilitation centres nationwide, providing psychosocial interventions, medical care, referrals, and social reintegration for recovering drug users.

“A total of 22,047 persons have been counselled, treated, and rehabilitated through these facilities in the past four years,” Marwa added.

He commended the National Orientation Agency (NOA) for organising the event and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, for facilitating the initiative.

Marwa also called on governors in the North-West zone to build at least three rehabilitation centres in their states, with one in each senatorial district.

“We urge state governments, lawmakers, local authorities, and private stakeholders to partner with us to find long-term solutions. A few states have already provided land for barracks and other logistical support for NDLEA commands, and we encourage others to do the same,” he said.

“We have established an Alternative Development Unit in my office to collaborate with stakeholders on providing alternative sources of income. The UNODC has commended us as the first in Africa to implement this initiative,” Marwa added.

Marwa urged all stakeholders to sustain the momentum beyond the flag-off ceremony, stressing the need for collective effort, determination, and the right policies to combat drug abuse.

“Let us reinforce our commitment to a drug-free Nigeria, one community at a time. With collective effort, determination, and the right policies, we can defeat the scourge of drug abuse and build a healthier, safer, and more prosperous nation,” the NDLEA boss said.

Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, launched a four-month campaign against drug abuse and violent crimes in the zone, stressing the need for collective action against the growing menace.

Issa-Onilu cited statistics from the UNODC and the United States’ National Institute on Drug Abuse, which highlight the urgent need for intervention.

“Drug abuse is not just a national challenge; it is a crisis that threatens the very fabric of our society. Research has shown a direct link between drug abuse and violent crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, terrorism, domestic violence, and sexual assault.

“We must act decisively to break the cycle of addiction and crime. We must mobilise our communities, especially our youth, to resist and reject drug culture and criminal activities,” he said.

The NOA boss commended the efforts of the NDLEA and called for increased collaboration between stakeholders to dismantle criminal networks.

“We must work together to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, mobilise our communities to take action, and advocate for the rehabilitation and reintegration of those affected by addiction and crime,” he said.

The campaign, a collaborative effort between NOA and stakeholders at federal, state, and local levels, aims to create a safer and more prosperous North-West zone.

“We urge all stakeholders to join hands with us to make this campaign a success. Together, we can achieve a safer, drug-free North-West zone,” he said.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who convened the programme, as well as traditional and religious leaders, community elders, youth groups, and civil society organisations.

2 in 10 children in Bauchi suffer from malnutrition UNICEF

Bauchi State has the highest prevalence of child malnutrition with approximately 54,000 cases, according to Dr Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of Field Office for UNICEF in Bauchi.

She revealed this during an advocacy meeting held in Jos, Plateau State, aimed at engaging Bauchi local government chairmen on increasing funding for nutrition and child welfare.

Dr Rafique expressed concern over the alarming malnutrition rates at the local level, particularly in primary healthcare facilities.

“In Bauchi alone, around 54,000 children are malnourished. Three out of 10 suffer from severe malnutrition, while six out of 10 are moderately malnourished. These moderately malnourished children are at risk of becoming severely malnourished at any time,” she said.

She also highlighted that 13 out of LGAs in Bauchi have children who have never received a single vaccine dose.

Dr Rafique commended the leadership of Bauchi State, including Governor Bala Mohammed, commissioners, LGA chairmen and health directors for their efforts. However, she emphasized that community behaviors and practices play a crucial role in addressing malnutrition.

Speaking at the event, Mahmoud Babamaji, Chairman of Bauchi Local Government and the Bauchi State branch of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), acknowledged the challenges of achieving full vaccination coverage in local communities.

Police Arrest Imposter, Foil Kidnap Attempt

 Becky Uba Umenyili

Operatives of  Ogun State Police have  arrested a 52-year-old man, identified as Harry Collins, for impersonating as a police officer while dressed in a full police uniform with a sergeant rank.

The suspect was arrested recently at the popular Long bridge in Ogun state while pretending to be on duty by a group of police officers from the state command who accosted him and took him to the stations for interrogations.

During the interrogations, Mr. Collins was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for his impersonation which raised further suspicion about his activities.

While still investigating his case, the Ogun State Police Command has called on the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals posing as police officers

In similar development, the Command foiled a kidnap attempt along the Warewa axis of the long bridge recently when a group of  armed men intercepted a commercial vehicle heading towards Lagos.

The assailants robbed the passengers at gunpoint and brutally assaulted the driver to the point of unconsciousness when he opened the rear door to escape.

An alarm was  raised which attracted the Anti-Kidnap Team that was on patrol.

Upon arrival, the police operatives engaged the criminals in a gun duel  injured four of the armed men while others escaped with gunshot wounds into the surrounding forest.

Some of the stolen items were recovered while the Command urged members of the public, especially medical practitioners, to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds.

Meanwhile, tragedy struck recently when a young man, (name withheld)drowned in a water well  while searching  for his phone which fell into the well.

Commenting on the unfortunate incident, the Ogun State Police Command reported that the tragic incident occurred in Oja-Odan area in the state, when the victim ignored warning from  residents who tried to prevent him from entering the well but  he insisted on retrieving the phone.

The deceased body was recovered but since no suspicious sign of violence was found on it, the police released the body to the family for burial rites, while urging the public to exercise caution when dealing with such hazardous situations.

Nigerian Policemen Allegedly 'Kidnap', Extort N470,000 From Youths At Gunpoint In Abuja

 They explained that they were stopped on January 8, 2025, around Kurudu area, after Army Estate in the nation’s capital by the policemen

Two siblings have recounted how officers of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command abducted them and extorted N470,000 at gunpoint.

They explained that they were stopped on January 8, 2025, around Kurudu area, after Army Estate in the nation’s capital by the policemen.

The two brothers said they were forced into a Toyota Corolla car in gold colour and driven round the city by the policemen who claimed to be from 10/Zone 6 division.

They added that they were treated like criminals during the "abduction" and forced to transfer money to an OPAY account, 6114428320 owned by Sani Musa Enterprises.

One of them who spoke with SaharaReporters said, “My brother and I were last Wednesday extorted by the police. They collected N470,000 from us. We were driving towards Kurudu, after the Army estate.

“They asked us to come down from our car took us into theirs that was tinted. They equally checked our phones and found nothing incriminating. They were fully armed and started beating us.

“They said we are internet fraudsters, yet they checked our phones and found nothing. Then they took us away in their car, the car was fully tinted and asked me to transfer everything we have in our accounts to an OPAY account, 6114428320 owned by Sani Musa Enterprises.”

“After we made the transfer, they dropped us under Zone 2 bridge, they used a gold colour Toyota Corolla, fully tinted and removed their badges from their uniforms. They told us that that they are from Arrea 10/Zone 6 Division.”

Nigerian Army Lieutenant Allegedly Flogs, Brutalizes Lance Corporal At 93 Battalion In Taraba For Lateness

 A Nigerian soldier, Lance Corporal Samuel P., has reportedly been subjected to severe mistreatment by a senior officer at the Nigerian Army's 93 Battalion in Taraba State.

The incident reportedly occurred on the morning of January 12, 2025, around 8:10 am, during preparations for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day parade in Jalingo.

According to SaharaReporters, it was gathered that LCpl Samuel P. arrived late for the mustering, prompting his reprimand by Lt. B. Mohammed.

Eyewitnesses allege that the officer ordered the soldier to perform "forward rolls" as punishment before taking a stick from Sgt. Steven and flogging the soldier.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage among soldiers in the battalion, many of whom have expressed concerns over the increasing trend of maltreatment of lower-ranking personnel.

Sources claim that such acts of abuse have become alarmingly frequent, undermining morale and discipline within the military ranks.

In a photograph obtained by SaharaReporters on Friday, the soldier’s leg was seen bandaged and stained with blood, further corroborating reports of the incident.

This alleged act of brutality has raised questions about the treatment of soldiers, ratings, and airmen within the Nigerian armed forces.

A military source who shared a video of one of the personnel allegedly brutalised by Ekah with SaharaReporters, said the 18 personnel were flogged for arriving late to parade mustering on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, SaharaReporters reported that KA Uzorh, one of the Ordinary Seamen reportedly tortured and brutalized by Lieutenant Commander Ekah, the Regulating Officer (RO) of the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, as previously reported by SaharaReporters, had been hospitalised.

Sources informed SaharaReporters that Uzorh sustained injuries during the assault, which have significantly impacted his physical, emotional, and mental well-being.