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SWAN Praises Security Forces Following Release of Kidnapped Sports Journalists

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The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has announced the release of several sports journalists who were abducted while traveling to cover the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between the Super Eagles and the Mediterranean Knights of Libya in Uyo.

The journalists, who were kidnapped along the Anambra/Imo axis, have now been freed, according to a press release from the SWAN National Secretariat on October 10, 2024.

In the statement, SWAN President Mr. Isaiah Benjamin expressed gratitude for the swift response of Nigerian security operatives. “After making necessary contacts immediately following the abduction of our colleagues, we have been reliably informed of their release. This follows the proactive pressure exerted by Nigerian security operatives on the kidnappers,” the statement read.

Isiah Benjamin said  the critical role of the Nigerian Army and Police in securing the journalists’ freedom.

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SWAN commended the security forces for their prompt action, which resulted in the release of six of the kidnapped journalists. Efforts are still ongoing to secure the freedom of the remaining journalist. “We commend the Nigerian Army and Police for ensuring the safe return of up to six of the held journalists,” the statement said.

The rescued media professionals, primarily camera and photojournalists, are reportedly on their way to reunite with their families or continue their work assignments. SWAN urged its members to remain calm and continue their professional duties, ensuring regular communication with state chapter leadership.

SWAN also reassured its members of the association’s commitment to their welfare. “Be assured that the National Leadership of SWAN is committed to your welfare and overall well-being with utmost regard as always,” said SWAN’s Secretary-General, Ikenna Okonkwo.

They emphasized that despite the challenging circumstances, SWAN remains focused on supporting its members and ensuring their safety.

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Former VP Atiku, Gov. Makinde Hold Closed-Door Talks with IBB in Minna

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde are currently engaged in a closed-door meeting with former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (rtd), at his Uphill Residence in Minna.

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Atiku arrived in Minna at approximately 1:30 PM local time, proceeding directly from the airport to the meeting venue. Governor Seyi Makinde joined the session around 2:10 PM, after which the high-level discussions commenced.

A brief press statement may be issued following the conclusion of the private talks. The agenda and details of the meeting remain undisclosed.

 

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Senate Approves Manual transmission of Results as Backup to Electronic

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Senate has, on February 10, 2026, amended votes and proceedings of its plenary sitting last week Wednesday 4th February, with regards to its resolutions on the provisions of section 60 sub 3 in the electoral act amendment bill.

The motion moved today by the Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno and endorsed by the Senate is with regards to transmission of election results from polling units.

Following the motion, senate adopts electronic means for the transmission of election results, but should there be a communication glitch that leads to failure of delivery by the electronic means, the form EC8, which contains the results at polling unit, duely entered on the form, stamped and signed by the election officer and counter signed by the various agents shall be the primary source of collation.

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After the vote on the motion, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe moved a counter motion calling for a division, that is individual voting on the section 60 sub 3.

He however withdrew the motion, and Akpabio, after a brief pause and back and forth, eventually upheld Abaribe’s position and allowed the withdrawal to stand.

Meanwhile, the Senate has appointed 12 members to work with the House of Representatives on the Electoral Amendment Act.

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, announced the members of the committee on during the emergency plenary session.

Among the members are Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Senator Tahir Mungono.

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Alhaji Alkasim Musa Rewards Kano Pillars Players with ₦1.2m After Remo Stars Victory

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It was a moment of joy and motivation for Sai Masu Gida on Sunday as Kano Pillars FC returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Remo Stars and were handsomely rewarded for their dominant display.

Businessman and staunch supporter of the club, Alhaji Alkasim Musa, gifted the Kano Pillars players the sum of ₦1 million in appreciation of their impressive performance and fighting spirit against the visitors.

Mid-season signing Luis Dadong proved to be the difference on the day, netting the decisive goal in the 57th minute to secure all three points for the Pride of Kano at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

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At the end of the encounter, midfielder Olakunle Alaka was named Man of the Match, an award presented by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter. In recognition of his outstanding display, Alhaji Alkasim Musa further rewarded Alaka with an additional ₦200,000.

The generous gesture by Alhaji Alkasim Musa was warmly received by the players and officials, serving as a major morale boost as the team continues its push for a strong finish in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Next up, Sai Masu Gida will be on the road as they travel to Ilorin, Kwara State, to face Kwara United in NPFL Matchday 26, aiming to build on the momentum and secure valuable points away from home.

 

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