News
Panic as terrorists group, ambush soldiers, capture sophisticated weapons
The extremist armed group Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists have carried out an ambush against the Nigerien Army in Tillabéri.
The ambush was a shocking development in the ongoing conflict between terrorists and Niger military.
The aftermath of the attack has also revealed some disturbing details about the sophisticated weapons that the militants were able to capture and destroy.
One of the most striking pieces of equipment that fell into the hands of the terrorists was a South Africa-made OTT Technologies’ Puma M36 MK5 MRAP.
The heavily armoured vehicle, originally donated by the United States, was a crucial asset for the Nigerien Army in their fight against terrorism, the report indicated.
“Its loss represents a significant blow to the military capabilities of the country and raises concerns about the security situation in the region.”
In addition to the MRAP, the terrorists also “seized a rare Singapore-made STK/CIS 40 AGL auto grenade launcher. This weapon is known for its high accuracy and devastating firepower, making it a prized possession for any armed group. The fact that ISIS was able to capture such a sophisticated piece of equipment is a troubling sign of their growing strength and influence in the region.
“They also acquired a cache of 107mm Chinese Type 63-2 HE rockets, as well as KPV and Type 85 heavy machine guns. These weapons are highly destructive and capable of causing widespread damage, posing a serious threat to the security and stability of the region.
“The presence of such advanced weaponry in the hands of ISIS militants is a cause for concern and underscores the need for increased international support to combat the growing terrorist threat in Niger.
“In addition to the heavy weaponry, the militants also seized a number of AKM/Type 56 assault rifles. These rifles are commonly used by insurgent groups around the world and are known for their reliability and effectiveness in combat.”
According to the Family Writers Press International, for the fact that ISIS was able to acquire a significant number of these rifles further highlights their ability to outgun and outmaneuver the Nigerien Army.
“The implications of this ambush are clear – ISIS is gaining ground and becoming more emboldened in their attacks on Nigerien security forces. The sophisticated weaponry that they have been able to capture demonstrates their growing capabilities and poses a serious threat to the stability of the region.
“The international community must step up its support for Niger in order to prevent further escalation of the conflict and to ensure the security of the country and its people.
“The ambush in Tillabéri and the subsequent capture of advanced weaponry by ISIS militants is a troubling development that highlights the growing threat of terrorism in Niger. The loss of the MRAP and other sophisticated weapons is a significant setback for the Nigerien Army and underscores the need for increased support from the international community.
“It is crucial that the government of Niger and its allies take decisive action to combat ISIS and prevent further attacks on innocent civilians and security forces. Failure to do so could have dire consequences for the stability and security of the region.”
By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives at the plenary on Wednesday passed through second reading, a Bill seeking to amend the National Eye centre Act, 2004, to provide for the establishment of more specialist eye care centres.
The proposed legislation was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Hon. Babajimi Benson and 5 other lawmakers.
Leading the debate on its general principles, Kalu noted that the bill seeks to enhance access to qualitative eye care services across the six geo-political zones of the nation.
According to him, the proposed amendments seek to address the pressing need for more specialist eye care centres to cater for the growing population and address the rising cases of eye diseases in the country.
Making reference to reports, he lamented that preventable and treatable eye conditions are a leading cause of disability in Nigeria, with cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive errors remaining prevalent in many parts of the country, especially the rural areas where access to specialized care is limited.
He expressed optimism that the proposed amendments will rectify this situation by expanding the establishment of National Eye Centres to strategic locations across the six geopolitical zones of the country.
He added that by doing so, we aim to provide a framework that will enhance and improve access to quality eye care, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind due to geographical barriers.
Kalu said, “I rise to lead the debate on the general principles of a Bill for an Act to amend the National Eye Centre Act, Cap N38, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, which seeks to enhance access to qualitative eye care services across the six geo-political zones of our beloved nation. The proposed amendments seek to address the pressing need for more specialist eye care centres to cater for the growing population and address the rising cases of eye diseases in the country. The Bill was read for the first time on Wednesday, 20thDecember, 2023.
“As we are all aware, access to quality healthcare services, especially in specialised areas like eye care, is crucial for the well-being of our citizens. The statistics reveal that preventable and treatable eye conditions are a leading cause of disability in Nigeria, with cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive errors remaining prevalent in many parts of the country, especially the rural areas where access to specialized care is limited. Unfortunately, the existing National Eye Centre in Kaduna, though commendable in its efforts, is unable to adequately meet the eye care needs of our vast and diverse nation. This inadequacy has led to disparities in access to eye care services, particularly for those in remote or underserved areas.
“The proposed amendments, thus aim to rectify this situation by expanding the establishment of National Eye Centres to strategic locations across the six geopolitical zones of the country. By doing so, we aim to provide a framework that will enhance and improve access to quality eye care, ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind due to geographical barriers. We hope to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of location, can access quality eye care services. This is not just a matter of healthcare; it is a matter of equity and social justice. This Bill which seeks to enhance and improve access to quality eye care in Nigeria has the following key provisions.
“The creation of 5 additional Specialist Eye Care Centres spread across the remaining 5 geopolitical zones of Nigeria not originally covered by the principal legislation which only provided for an Eye Care Centre in Kaduna, North West Nigeria. The establishment of separate Boards to govern each centre and academic committees to oversee academic affairs. These bodies will not only ensure effective management and coordination of the Centres’ activities by overseeing their day-to-day operations, but shall also drive research and educational initiatives in ophthalmology, thereby fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in eye care. In presenting this bill, we are reaffirming our commitment to the visual health and well-being of every Nigerian. By establishing additional centers, we can decentralize eye care services, reduce travel costs for patients, and ultimately protect and preserve the precious gift of sight for all citizens. Honourable Colleagues, I urge you all to support this Bill as it represents a significant step towards improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria, particularly in the critical area of eye care. Together, let us illuminate the path to a future where quality eye care is not a luxury but a fundamental right for every Nigerian.”
Thereafter the bill was put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Rt Hon Tajudeen Abass, GCON who presided over the session and it was passed and referred to the committee on speciality Healthcare.
By Gloria Ikibah
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