By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

The Ibeno Clan Council has commended the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for a recent security operation in Ibeno Local Government Area, describing the recovery of a firearm and suspected illicit drugs as a positive step toward improving security in coastal communities.

In a statement, the Secretary of the Ibeno Clan Council, Chief Okon Udofia, praised the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, and officers of the command for their efforts to combat crime and protect residents.Udofia said the council welcomed the operation amid concerns about criminal activities in parts of the area.

He noted that some community members had linked a suspect under investigation to alleged criminal incidents in Ibeno and neighbouring communities, but stressed that such allegations should be thoroughly investigated by law enforcement agencies. “The recent recovery of a firearm and suspected hard drugs demonstrates the commitment of the police to tackling criminal activities and ensuring public safety,” he said.

The council urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies to support ongoing investigations. Udofia also reaffirmed the council’s commitment to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to promote peace and security in Ibeno.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command had earlier announced the recovery of a locally made pistol, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, and other suspected illicit drugs during an intelligence-led operation in the area. Police authorities said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend individuals connected to the recovered exhibits.

By Jabiru Hassan

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has granted site access to Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL) to begin construction of two 330kV bays at the Kainji Transmission Substation in Niger State.The site handover, conducted on June 5, 2026, marks the commencement of the Kainji Switchyard Units 1G3 and 1G4 Bays Project, which will support the evacuation of additional power from the Kainji Hydroelectric Power Plant into the national grid.

According to TCN, the project includes civil, electrical, and mechanical works, as well as testing and commissioning activities.When completed, the new infrastructure will enable the evacuation of up to 220 megawatts of electricity from two additional turbines—Units 1G3 and 1G4—each expected to generate 110MW.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, TCN’s General Manager, Materials Control and Stores, and Chairman of the Project Technical Committee, Engr. Abdulkadir Gwaram Adamu, described the project as a major milestone in efforts to strengthen power transmission capacity. He said the project would enhance the integration of additional electricity generation into the national grid and commended MESL for its collaboration and investment. According to TCN, the project is being fully funded by MESL at no cost to the transmission company.

In his remarks, MESL’s Chief Technical Officer, Engr. Cleber Romao Grisi, thanked TCN for granting site access and assured stakeholders that the project would be completed within the agreed timeline.TCN said the project is expected to be completed by December 2026. Other officials present at the handover included representatives from TCN’s business development, transmission, and system operations departments.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Prof. Salisu Ogbo, has congratulated the Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Prof. Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, on his 60th birthday. In a goodwill message, Prof. Ogbo described Ibileye as a distinguished scholar and visionary academic leader whose contributions to higher education have earned him respect within and beyond the university community.

He said the milestone provides an opportunity to celebrate the Federal University Lokoja vice-chancellor’s achievements in academia, leadership, and institutional development. According to Ogbo, Ibileye has demonstrated commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the advancement of higher education since assuming office as vice-chancellor.

He noted that the Federal University Lokoja under Ibileye’s leadership has continued to pursue growth and development through initiatives aimed at strengthening teaching, research, and institutional progress. The PAAU vice-chancellor also prayed for good health, wisdom, and continued success for his counterpart as he marks the milestone age.“

On behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Management, staff, and students of Prince Abubakar Audu University, I congratulate Prof. Gbenga Solomon Ibileye on his 60th birthday and wish him many more years of fruitful service and outstanding accomplishments,” Ogbo said. Prof. Ibileye is widely recognised for his contributions to scholarship and university administration, as well as his role in advancing higher education in Nigeria.