At least, 40 people have died following a cholera outbreak that has swept across seven Local Government Areas of Borno State, with more than 3,000 infections recorded in 139 communities, according to government estimates.

The outbreak, which affected Maiduguri, Jere, Mafa, Konduga, Monguno, Ngala and Magumeri between May 1 and May 28, 2026, has raised concerns among residents and health authorities as the number of cases continues to rise.

Data released by the Borno State Government on Saturday, May 30, indicated that cholera had claimed 37 lives and infected more than 3,000 people. The latest figures represent a sharp increase from an epidemiological summary issued three days earlier, which reported 27 deaths and 2,715 infections between May 1 and May 27.

The statistics show that within three days, the death toll rose by 10 while more than 285 new infections were recorded.

According to the data, the Maiduguri metropolis remains the epicentre of the outbreak, accounting for more than half of all reported cases in the state.

The rapid spread of the disease has heightened fears among residents, particularly in densely populated communities where access to clean water and sanitation facilities remains limited.

Authorities have continued surveillance and response efforts in affected areas, while residents have been urged to maintain proper hygiene, ensure safe drinking water and seek immediate medical attention when symptoms appear.

A Yobe-based politician and philanthropist, Sani Ahmed Kaitafi, has raised concerns over the treatment of patients at General Hospital Gashu’a, alleging critical gaps in emergency healthcare services at the facility.

In a letter addressed to Governor Mai Mala Buni and the State Commissioner for Health, which was also shared on his verified Facebook page, Kaitafi recounted the experience of an acquaintance suffering from chronic kidney disease who was reportedly admitted to the hospital in critical condition.

According to him, the patient was rushed to the hospital at about 6:00 a.m. on Saturday after experiencing severe health complications.

Kaitafi commended a nurse at the facility for what he described as exceptional dedication, saying the healthcare worker made efforts to stabilize the patient despite the challenges encountered.

He alleged that no doctor attended to the patient during more than 24 hours spent at the hospital’s emergency unit, prompting him to seek medical guidance from the patient’s physician in Kano through a video call.

According to Kaitafi, the physician recommended a series of medical tests, prescribed medication, and later advised that the patient be transferred to Kano under oxygen support for specialised treatment.

However, he claimed that plans for the transfer were complicated by the unavailability of a functional ambulance at the hospital.

“We had to get a commercial vehicle to transport the patient with an oxygen tank and a nurse,” he wrote.

Kaitafi said the incident raises broader concerns about emergency healthcare delivery in public hospitals and called on relevant authorities to investigate the matter and address identified shortcomings.

He expressed hope that urgent steps would be taken to prevent similar situations in the future.

“I am hoping and praying that something serious is done to avert medical crises in the state’s health institutions,” he stated.

The Yobe State Ministry of Health had not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of filing this report nor did the commissioner of Health respond to call.

Seven years after Governor Mai Mala Buni assumed office in Yobe State, his administration says improved security and stability remain central to its record in a region long affected by insurgency and humanitarian crises.

Speaking at a press conference in Damaturu to mark the administration’s seventh anniversary, the Acting Secretary to the State Government, Mohammed Goje, described the period as one of “continuity, consolidation, recovery and transformation”.

The anniversary event highlighted what officials say are efforts to reposition Yobe from one of the states heavily impacted by insecurity in North-East Nigeria to a more stable environment for economic and social activities.

When Mr Buni took office in 2019, Yobe State was still dealing with the effects of years of insurgency, including displacement of communities, disruption of economic activities, closure of schools and damage to public infrastructure.

According to Mr Goje, security became a key priority for the administration’s wider development agenda.

He said the government adopted a strategy that combined support for security agencies with community engagement, peacebuilding initiatives and humanitarian recovery programmes.

The administration says it procured more than 200 operational motorcycles and 60 patrol vehicles to support the activities of the military, police, vigilante groups, hunters and community response teams operating across the state.

Government officials also highlighted the rehabilitation of the 233 Battalion Barracks, the construction of accommodation for military personnel and the establishment of a military camp in Gashua.

Security agencies including the Armed Forces, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), NDLEA and the Correctional Service were also provided with logistical support, according to the government.

Officials said the administration additionally sought to strengthen coordination among security institutions through the creation of the Yobe State Security Stakeholders Forum.

The forum brought together security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and government officials to improve collaboration and intelligence sharing on security issues, the government said.

More than 100 government officials also received specialised training in areas such as criminal intelligence, crisis management and non-kinetic security operations through institutions including the Defence Intelligence College and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

The administration further highlighted welfare support for security personnel, including financial assistance to wounded officers and families of deceased personnel, as well as housing initiatives for senior officers and affected families.

In several communities across the state, residents say improved security has contributed to the gradual return of commercial activities, farming and transportation services.

Markets that were previously disrupted have reopened, while some schools affected by insecurity have resumed operations.

Residents in Damaturu, Gashua, Nguru and other parts of the state have also reported increased movement of goods and people as security conditions improved.

Although security challenges persist in parts of the wider North-East region, analysts say Yobe’s experience reflects the importance of combining military operations with governance reforms, community engagement and institutional support.

The improved security environment has also supported broader government programmes in education, healthcare, infrastructure and economic development.

As the Buni administration marks seven years in office, officials say the government’s focus remains on sustaining stability and supporting long-term development across the state.

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni’s administration says it has completed and upgraded more than 500 kilometres of roads across the state over the past seven years as part of an extensive infrastructure and urban renewal programme.

Speaking at a press conference in Damaturu to mark the administration’s seventh anniversary with MaidawaArewa in attendance, the Acting Secretary to the State Government, Mohammed Goje, described infrastructure development as one of the government’s major priorities.

According to Mr Goje, the projects have improved transportation, boosted economic activities and enhanced access to essential services in both urban and rural areas.

“The investments have transformed transportation networks, improved access to markets and social services, stimulated economic activities, and strengthened connectivity between urban and rural communities,” he said.

Among the flagship projects highlighted by the government is the ongoing Damaturu Flyover and Underpass Bridge, which is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve movement within the state capital.

The administration is also carrying out the dualisation and reconstruction of the 26-kilometre Damaturu–Kalallawa Road to support growing commercial activities in and around Damaturu.

Other projects listed by the government include the construction of the 11-kilometre Damaturu–Gambir Road, expansion works along Potiskum Road, reconstruction of the Waziri Ibrahim Bypass, and several township and inter-community roads across the state.

In northern Yobe, roads such as the 16-kilometre Nguru–Balanguwa Road and the 17-kilometre Ngelzarma–Mashio Road are expected to improve access for farming and trading communities.

The government also cited the 34-kilometre Jajere–Danchuwa Road and the 18-kilometre Garin Bingel–Danchuwa Road as projects aimed at supporting agricultural activities and improving the movement of farm produce.

Residents and transport operators in some communities say improved roads have reduced travel time and transportation costs, particularly during the rainy season when access was previously difficult.

The administration says the infrastructure projects form part of a broader strategy to support economic recovery and long-term development following years of security and socio-economic challenges in the state.

“These projects are strategic investments in economic integration, mobility, social inclusion, and regional development,” Mr Goje added.

Analysts say improved road infrastructure remains important for economic growth in largely agrarian states such as Yobe, where access to markets, healthcare and education services directly affects livelihoods.

Commercial drivers and traders have also reported increased movement of goods and passengers in areas benefiting from the road projects.

As the Buni administration marks seven years in office, infrastructure development continues to be one of the most visible aspects of its record in Yobe State.

Nigerian social commentator and activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has expressed deep concern over the reported abduction of school teachers and students in Oyo State, describing the situation as “heartbreaking”.

In a statement shared on social media, the activist said he was distressed by videos circulating online relating to the victims, who were reportedly kidnapped about two weeks ago.

“My heart weeps especially for the children who have been separated from their parents and loved ones for weeks,” he said. “There is uncertainty surrounding their condition, including whether all 46 victims are still alive, whether they are being adequately fed, and the state of their health.”

VeryDarkMan further stated that if the Nigerian authorities are unable to secure the release of the victims or successfully negotiate their freedom within the next four days, he may consider launching a public fundraising campaign to support efforts aimed at securing their release.

He acknowledged that such an action could have legal and security implications but insisted he was prepared to face the consequences if it would help reunite the children with their families and return the teachers safely to their communities.

The Nigerian government and security agencies have yet to issue an official update regarding the status of the victims or any ongoing rescue operations.

Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has approved the purchase of sacrificial lambs worth an estimated ₦452.5 million for 1,725 indigent pilgrims from the state performing the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

The funds will cover Hadaya vouchers through Saudi Arabia’s official Adahi system, priced at SAR 720 per pilgrim.

At current rates, that totals SAR 1.24 million, or about $331,200.

Each voucher pays for the slaughter, veterinary and Shariah inspection, packaging, and distribution of meat to needy pilgrims and residents in the holy cities.

The Hadaya is a mandatory rite for pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu and Hajj al-Qiran.

Animals are slaughtered during the days of Tashreeq, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah, in line with Shariah guidelines.

In addition to the lambs, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum provided free Ihram garments for male pilgrims and khimar head coverings for female pilgrims.

He also paid hotel differentials to secure more comfortable accommodation for the Borno contingent in Makkah.

Zulum has consistently approved funds for Hadaya over several Hajj seasons to ensure no registered indigent pilgrim is unable to complete their religious duties.

He urged the pilgrims to intensify prayers for peace and prosperity in Borno State and across Nigeria.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released a young man from Yobe State after investigations reportedly found no evidence linking him to any wrongdoing, and subsequently provided him with ₦2 million to support his reintegration into society.

The young man, identified as Ya’u Mohammed from Gashua in Bade Local Government Area of Yobe State, was handed over to the Yobe State Government following his release.

The Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Yobe State Governor, retired Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam, disclosed this during a visit to the DSS Command Headquarters in Damaturu, where Mohammed was formally reunited with his family.

Abdulsalam said he visited the command to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the detention and release of the young man.

According to him, further reviews and investigations by the DSS established that Mohammed had no involvement in the alleged offence for which he was initially detained.

He described the development as unprecedented in his decades of public service, noting that he had never witnessed a situation in which a detainee was not only released after being cleared, but also given financial support to aid reintegration.

Abdulsalam said the gesture reflected what he described as a deliberate effort by the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, to promote justice, compassion and rehabilitation.

He also urged security agencies to continue upholding the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights in order to strengthen public trust and cooperation.

Speaking after his release, Mohammed expressed gratitude to God and thanked the DSS leadership for the support extended to him.

He said he intended to use the funds provided to establish a means of livelihood and support his family.

Mohammed’s father, Alhaji Muhammadu, also expressed appreciation to the DSS, describing the intervention as compassionate and commendable.

The Centre for Media and Communication Research (CMCR) at Pan-Atlantic University, in partnership with the NNPCL Foundation, is set to hold the 2nd NNPCL Foundation Symposium on Energy and Environmental Communication in Lagos next month.

The two-day event will take place from 10 to 11 June 2026 at the university’s main campus and is expected to bring together stakeholders from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

According to the organisers, the symposium is designed to encourage discussions on sustainable environmental communication and the role of the media in addressing energy and environmental challenges in Nigeria.

The organisers said the event also forms part of the NNPCL Foundation’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at promoting public engagement and policy conversations around environmental sustainability.

The symposium is expected to attract academics, development experts, communication professionals and policymakers to explore strategies for strengthening collaboration in support of Nigeria’s environmental and sustainable development objectives.

Nelson Okorie, Director of the Centre for Media and Communication Research, said the symposium would provide a platform for critical discourse on the future of energy and environmental communication in the country.

The event will be held at the main campus of Pan-Atlantic University in Lagos, Nigeria.

Ahmed Galadima has emerged as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State after winning the party’s primary election.

The result was announced on Friday in Yola by the chairman of the APC Governorship Planning Committee, Prof. Innocent Barikor.

According to the committee, Galadima secured 414,444 votes to defeat his closest rival, Abdulrazak Namdas, who polled 86,004 votes, while Abdulrahman Haske came third with 65,934 votes.

Galadima is the immediate past Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

He resigned from the position in April 2026 to pursue his governorship ambition in Adamawa State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The APC primary marks a significant step in the state’s political landscape as parties intensify preparations for the forthcoming governorship election.