NAF Airstrikes Eliminate Terrorists Near Lake Chad Amid Heavy Rainfall

…Airstrikes near Lake Chad disrupt terrorist stronghold

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully executed targeted airstrikes in the Jubillaram area of southern Tumbuns, near Lake Chad, eliminating multiple terrorists, according to AVM Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF.

The operation was made possible as persistent rainfall forced the terrorists into more exposed terrain. Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions revealed their location, where they had set up makeshift shelters with salvaged belongings.

NAF aircraft responded with precision airstrikes, destroying the terrorists’ structures and neutralizing several militants. Gabkwet emphasized that the operation dealt a significant blow to the terrorists’ ability to threaten civilian targets.

“The success of the airstrike demonstrates NAF’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the nation from terrorist threats,” Gabkwet stated, noting that the excess rainfall had inadvertently aided the operation by forcing the militants out of hiding.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, had previously directed intensified air operations against terrorists, and the latest strike affirmed that the directives are yielding results.

Massive Fire Engulfs East London Apartment Building, Two Hospitalized

A major fire engulfed an apartment building in east London early Monday morning, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the air and leaving two people hospitalized.

The London Fire Brigade reported that the fire, which broke out at 2:44 am, affected the entire building, including scaffolding and the roof. Emergency services evacuated the premises as a large-scale search and rescue operation got underway.

Four people were treated at the scene by the London Ambulance Service, with two requiring hospitalization for further treatment.

Approximately 40 fire engines and 225 firefighters responded to the blaze, which impacted both residential and commercial units in the building. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

“Governor AbdulRazaq Urges Kwara Workers to Use 6-Month Maternity Leave for Breastfeeding”

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has encouraged female civil servants to fully utilize the state’s six-month paid maternity leave to breastfeed their babies, ensuring optimal child development and health.

The governor made this appeal on Thursday during the launch of the State Policy on Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN) and the State Guidelines on Baby-Friendly Initiatives (BFI) in Ilorin.

In 2023, the Kwara State government introduced a six-month paid maternity leave policy for female civil servants, aiming to promote exclusive breastfeeding practices.

Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El-Imam, the governor emphasized the importance of optimal nutrition for the growth and development of children, particularly during the first 1,000 days of life, which spans from conception to a child’s second birthday. This period is crucial for brain development, and any nutritional deficiencies can lead to stunting, which has long-term impacts on educational performance and future economic opportunities.

“Stunted children often face difficulties in school, which can lead to higher dropout rates and reduced economic prospects later in life,” AbdulRazaq stated. He also highlighted that nutrition is not only a health issue but a vital component of human capital development and economic stability.

The state government, in partnership with the World Bank through the Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project, has provided a Basic Package of Nutrition Services (BPNS) to children under five years old, as well as pregnant and lactating women across all 16 local government areas in Kwara.

Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in nutrition, noting the recent inauguration of the State Committee on Food and Nutrition (SCFN). This committee is tasked with coordinating a multi-sectoral approach to tackling malnutrition in the state, with adequate funding to support its efforts.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady of Kwara State, Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, described breastfeeding as the most effective way to ensure a child’s health and survival. She emphasized that breastfeeding provides essential nutrients, supports brain development, and strengthens the immune system.

“Promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life can prevent malnutrition, reduce child mortality, and enhance cognitive development,” she said.

Prof. AbdulRazaq added that the government would continue to support health facilities, train healthcare workers, and educate mothers on the benefits of breastfeeding and proper infant feeding practices.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El-Imam, also represented by the Permanent Secretary, Hajia Afusat Ibrahim, noted that the MIYCN policy is a comprehensive approach aimed at improving the nutritional status of women and children in Kwara State. The policy addresses the nutritional needs of mothers during pregnancy and lactation, as well as the needs of infants and young children up to the age of five.

“Governor AbdulRazaq Urges Kwara Workers to Use 6-Month Maternity Leave for Breastfeeding”