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January Blitz: Nigerian Military Neutralises Terrorists, Frees 284 Hostages, Dismantles Criminal Networks Nationwide

Emmanuel Daudu

In what officials describe as one of the most sweeping nationwide security offensives in recent months, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) recorded decisive gains across all theatres of operation in January 2026 neutralising terrorists, dismantling criminal networks, rescuing kidnapped victims and crippling illegal oil operations.

The Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Michael Onoja, laid out the scale of the month-long campaign on Friday in Abuja, saying the operations underscored the military’s resolve to secure lives, property and critical national assets despite extremely challenging conditions.

Addressing journalists, Onoja said the briefing formed part of the AFN’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sustained engagement with the media and the Nigerian public.

He described the media as a critical partner in national security, noting that accurate and responsible reporting continues to strengthen public confidence and collective security efforts.

According to the DDMO, troops across the country neutralised several terrorists during the period, arrested 452 suspected terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal elements, rescued 284 kidnapped victims and received the surrender of 124 terrorists and their family members.

A major highlight of the January operations was the sustained crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta.

Onoja disclosed that troops recovered 210,300 litres of stolen crude oil, 66,725 litres of Automotive Gas Oil, 660 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosine and 5,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, while destroying 53 illegal refining sites.

In the North East, troops of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI maintained relentless pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists through coordinated ground, air and hybrid operations, supported by local security groups.

Between January 1 and 29, operations across Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States led to the neutralisation of scores of terrorists, the arrest of 74 suspects and the rescue of 40 kidnapped victims. Forty-four terrorists and their family members also surrendered, while five top commanders and three lieutenants were eliminated in fierce engagements.

Further operations in Gwoza, Damboa, Mobbar, Askira Uba and Konduga Local Government Areas of Borno State, as well as Michika in Adamawa and Damaturu in Yobe, resulted in additional arrests, rescues and weapons recovery.

Onoja confirmed that two notorious terrorist commanders, Basulhu and Ubaida, were killed alongside several fighters during a major encounter at the Mandara Mountains on January 22.
Air operations proved decisive, with precision strikes carried out in the Northern Tumbus and the Timbuktu Triangle known strongholds of senior ISWAP commanders leading to heavy terrorist casualties and the destruction of key to equipment.

In the North West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA sustained high operational tempo across Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kaduna, Kano, Niger, Kogi, Kwara and parts of the Federal Capital Territory.
During the month, several terrorists were neutralised, 52 suspects arrested and 100 kidnapped victims rescued. Arms and ammunition were intercepted from gunrunners, while weapons, vehicles and rustled livestock were recovered in Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, Niger and Kebbi States.

In the North Central, Operation ENDURING PEACE recorded significant successes in Plateau and parts of Kaduna States, neutralising extremists, arresting 86 criminals and rescuing 24 victims. A major breakthrough was the arrest of a wanted kidnap kingpin, Amadu Adamu, in Jama’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE, covering Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, Kwara, Niger and the FCT, led to the arrest of 58 criminals, the rescue of 32 victims and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
South-South And South

In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE delivered crippling blows to oil theft, piracy and militancy, arresting 81 oil thieves and criminals and destroying dozens of illegal refining sites.

Air reconnaissance missions over Bakana and Abuloma disrupted ongoing illegal siphoning activities.

In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA responded to multiple distress calls across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States.
The operations led to the surrender of over 80 militants, the rescue of eight Cameroonian nationals during cross-border patrols, and a noticeable drop in crime rates across the region.

Onoja reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to national security, stressing that sustained operations, inter-agency collaboration and community support are yielding measurable results.

He urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, echoing the Chief of Defence Staff’s mantra: “See something, say something.”
“The Armed Forces will continue to adapt, innovate and respond decisively to evolving threats until lasting peace and stability are achieved,” the DDMO said.

Giant Gee Nigeria Partners Italian Firm To Roll Out Ambitious 2026 Capacity-Building Programmes

Maryam Aminu

In a strategic move aimed at closing Nigeria’s skills gap and aligning local institutions with global best practices, Giant Gee Nigeria Limited has unveiled a comprehensive set of capacity-building and professional development programmes scheduled for implementation in 2026, in partnership with an Italian training firm.

The Managing Director of the company, Ambassador Augustine Chigbolu, disclosed this during a press briefing on the organisation’s strategic outlook for the coming year, describing the initiative as a deliberate investment in human capital development and sustainable economic growth.

Chigbolu revealed that Giant Gee Nigeria has concluded arrangements with DT2 Italy, an international training and development organisation, to deliver the programmes in collaboration with Vinik Parliamentary Consult.

He said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to providing practical, impactful and internationally competitive training for Nigeria’s public and private sectors.

According to him, the 2026 training cycle will be implemented under two broad categories: vocational training programmes and capacity-building programmes for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
The vocational programmes will focus on critical growth areas such as environmental sustainability, with emphasis on waste management and recycling; information technology, including artificial intelligence simulations and ICT; distribution chain and logistics; as well as online vocational agribusiness training to be delivered in English.
For MDAs, the capacity-building component is designed to strengthen governance, accountability and digital transformation. Key focus areas include taxation and tax policy, financial management and audit, as well as digital government and e-commerce.

Ambassador Chigbolu noted that the collaboration with DT2 Italy and Vinik Parliamentary Consult would ensure the adoption of globally aligned training standards, while tailoring content to Nigeria’s development realities.

He added that by combining local insight with international expertise, the programmes would position organisations and individuals to remain competitive in an increasingly digital and interconnected global economy.

Giant Gee Nigeria Limited stated that further details on programme schedules, participation criteria and implementation timelines would be announced in due course.

CDS Reaffirms Military’s Commitment To Peace As Benue Govt Strengthens Security Partnership

Emmanuel Daudu

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to sustaining peace, stability and security in Benue State, as the Benue State Government deepens collaboration with the Defence Headquarters to consolidate recent security gains.

General Oluyede gave the assurance in Abuja while receiving the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hyacinth Iormem Alia, who paid a courtesy visit to the Defence Headquarters.

The Defence Chief noted that the relative improvement in security across several parts of Benue State reflects the impact of effective collaboration among the military, other security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and the state government.

He stressed that sustainable peace is achievable when stakeholders work in trust and synergy with security forces.

According to him, plans are underway to establish a structured interface mechanism between the Armed Forces and Benue State to strengthen coordination with local stakeholders and ensure that security gains are not only sustained but expanded across affected areas.

General Oluyede also underscored the importance of non-kinetic approaches to peacebuilding, including rehabilitation, reintegration and livelihood support programmes for affected and repentant individuals.

He commended the Benue State Government for initiating efforts to encourage non-state actors to lay down their arms, urging the state to put in place enduring support systems that would discourage a return to criminal activities.

Earlier, Governor Alia congratulated General Oluyede on his appointment as Chief of Defence Staff and praised the Armed Forces for their sustained operations that have contributed to improved security in the state.

He said the visible presence and commitment of the military have reassured residents and renewed hope for lasting peace.

The governor pledged the readiness of the Benue State Government to continue partnering with the Defence Headquarters in addressing security challenges, particularly in troubled areas such as the Sankera axis, comprising Katsina-Ala, Zaki Biam and Logo Local Government Areas.

He also sought further support for the state’s initiative aimed at persuading armed non-state actors to embrace peace.

The visit was attended by top officials of the Benue State Government as well as senior military officers from the Defence Headquarters.

Birthday Anniversary: UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu salutes Federal Lawmaker

About Hon Ahmed Adamu Saba
Hon Ahmed Adamu Saba is a Nigerian lawmaker representing Edu/Moro/Patigi Federal Constituency in Kwara State. He’s been recognized globally for his contributions to politics and public administration, receiving awards like the “Most Notable and Top Distinguished Federal Representative of The 21st Century” and Life Fellow of ICWLS

Some of his notable initiatives include:

Empowerment Programs: Distributed N300 million worth of resources, including essentials like rice, beans, and sewing machines, to his constituents.
Youth and Women Empowerment: Organized a three-day training program on entrepreneurship, benefiting over 175 youths and women.
Anti-Drug Abuse Efforts: Partnered with NDLEA to combat drug abuse in his constituency.

About Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu
Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is a Nigerian academic and The First African UNESCO Laureate recognized for his outstanding contributions to education. He’s a World Acclaimed Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus of Computer Science and Information Communication Technology, honored with a golden certificate and medal from UNESCO and top up by University of Nigeria Nsukka Nigeria and other world wide

Some of his notable achievements include:

Awards and Recognition:
World Records Holder of many global organizations with various Global Golden Medals and Certificates included Noble Book of World Records and others PHILANTHROPIST Award (2023), Global ICON Award (2023), and Outstanding Global Achievements Award (2023)
Leadership Roles: International Chairman, Board of Trustees of Africa Information Technology Consultancy; Chief Editor, Technoarete Transactions on Application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Education
Academic Positions: He has been appointed to many academics positions both in Nigeria and outside Nigeria such Chairman and Member of Accreditation Panel of some Nigeria Universities appointed by National Universities Commission Abuja Nigeria and Chairman Board of Trustees of Universities and Organizations world wide , Visiting Professor of some Universities both in Nigeria and outside Nigeria such Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria, University of Medical Science Ondo City Ondo State Nigeria Bharat University India and others world wide

He’s also a recipient of the International Shakespeare Award for Literary Achievement and has been listed as one of the 100 Top Educators of the World and other global Notable organizations world wide

FG, APDC Seal Deal to Reawaken Moribund Youth Centres, Drive Skills, Jobs Nationwide

Maryam Aminu

After years of neglect that left many youth development centres idle across the country, the Federal Government has taken a decisive step to breathe new life into the facilities, signing a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Africa Projects Development Centre (APDC) to transform them into engines of skills acquisition, innovation and job creation.

The MoU, signed on Monday in Abuja, signals a renewed national push to reposition Youth Development Centres as modern, fit-for-purpose hubs for vocational, digital and entrepreneurial training, aligned with the evolving demands of the labour market and Nigeria’s broader development agenda.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, said the partnership reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians and tackling unemployment through practical, results-driven interventions.

He acknowledged that many youth centres nationwide have suffered prolonged neglect, stressing that the collaboration with APDC will inject technical expertise, private-sector efficiency and innovative funding models to restore them to full functionality.

According to the Minister, the partnership represents a shared commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive youth development framework. He explained that the scope of the collaboration covers project design, training and capacity building, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, as well as resource mobilization, with the revitalization of Youth Development Centres as its core focus.

Comrade Olawande noted that the initiative aims to convert existing centres into vibrant training and incubation hubs offering vocational, technical, digital and entrepreneurial skills in high-demand sectors.

He added that the centres will also serve as platforms for innovation, mentorship and market access, enabling young Nigerians to translate skills into sustainable livelihoods.

He further stated that the MoU will strengthen the Ministry’s institutional capacity in donor engagement, project execution and results-based monitoring and evaluation, ensuring measurable impact and value for money. The agreement, he said, provides a practical pathway for translating youth development policies into implementable programmes that directly address skills gaps, unemployment and limited access to finance.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Kenshiro, described the partnership as a strategic milestone in strengthening youth development structures nationwide.

She said the collaboration would focus on transforming existing youth centres into functional training and incubation facilities delivering market-relevant vocational, technical, digital and entrepreneurial programmes.

Dr. Kenshiro noted that APDC’s proven experience in project design, capacity building and youth incubation will complement the Ministry’s mandate, enhance programme delivery, and improve monitoring and evaluation outcomes.

She added that the MoU also establishes a framework for joint resource mobilization, including engagement with development banks and strategic partners, to guarantee sustainability and measurable results.

Earlier, the Managing Director of APDC, Dr. Chiji Ojukwu, said the agreement was the product of sustained engagement and a shared vision to scale youth empowerment initiatives across the country.

He disclosed that APDC has empowered over 9,000 youths and women through interventions in agriculture, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), environmental sustainability and the creative industry.

Dr. Ojukwu explained that the partnership will support nationwide expansion of youth programmes, strengthen resource mobilization and promote evidence-based youth policy development, with a focus on long-term, sustainable impact.
With the MoU now in place, stakeholders say expectations are high that Nigeria’s youth centres will shift from dormant public assets to dynamic platforms driving skills, innovation and economic opportunity for millions of young Nigerians.

FG Moves To End Oil Well Disputes As RMAFC Begins Mapping Of New, Contested Fields

Maryam Aminu

In a decisive move that could redraw Nigeria’s oil revenue map and calm long-running disputes among oil-producing states, the Federal Government has commenced the plotting of coordinates for disputed and newly drilled oil and gas wells across the country.

The exercise, driven by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), marks a critical step toward determining the true ownership of oil and gas resources that underpin billions of naira in derivation funds.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Abuja on Monday, the Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, announced that the Inter-Agency Technical Committee (IATC) set up to verify the coordinates of the affected wells has concluded its fieldwork and is now moving into the plotting phase.
“The verification has been completed. The next and decisive step is the plotting of the coordinates, which will finally establish the exact location of these disputed and newly drilled oil and gas wells and attribute them to their rightful owners,” Dr. Shehu said.

The IATC comprises representatives of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and RMAFC. The committee was mandated to resolve ownership disputes that often erupt whenever new oil fields come on stream.

Dr. Shehu stressed that the exercise is not merely administrative, but constitutional. “The Constitution clearly provides that 13 per cent of revenue from crude oil and gas must go to the states where these resources are produced. Ensuring accuracy in location and ownership is therefore not optional it is a constitutional obligation,” he said.

According to the RMAFC Chairman, the exercise covers all oil-producing states, including Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Ondo, Rivers and Delta, as well as offshore locations.

He noted that overlapping claims are common, but insisted that “facts on the ground not assumptions will determine who owns what, or whether ownership must be shared.”

To guarantee transparency and credibility, Dr. Shehu disclosed that extensive field operations were carried out between September 2025 and January 2026, spanning creeks, high seas and offshore terrains. Where physical access was impossible, drones were deployed to capture precise coordinates, with surveyors-general of the affected states present throughout the process.
“We went to the field ourselves, and all data collected were witnessed by representatives of the states concerned,” he said, assuring that RMAFC would remain “an unbiased umpire guided by justice, equity and fairness.”

A Cross-section of participants at the event

He expressed confidence that the outcome of the exercise would significantly reduce inter-state disputes and strengthen trust in the derivation revenue process.

The Chairman also commended Hon. Hakeem Amosu, Acting Chairman of the Crude Oil Monitoring Committee, and Hon. Rabiu Garba, Chairman of the Gas Monitoring Committee, for their leadership and support, which he said were crucial to the success of the assignment.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Commission, Joseph Okechukwu Nwaze, described the exercise as a testament to effective inter-agency collaboration, noting that its successful completion would reinforce confidence in

In her remarks, the Director of the Crude Oil Department, Dr. Khadija Kumo, said the exercise was timely and vital to the future of energy governance in Nigeria, urging sustained cooperation to support data-driven decision-making in the sector.

Also speaking, the Coordinator of the Inter-Agency Technical Committee, Prince Folorunsho Aderinwala, praised the RMAFC Chairman for providing the necessary support that enabled the committee to successfully carry out its mandate.

The current phase follows the October 2025 flag-off of the verification exercise in the Niger Delta, which was prompted by petitions from governors of Anambra, Delta, Imo, Edo, Ondo and Rivers states, seeking clarity on the ownership and boundaries of certain oil and gas assets.

With the plotting now underway, stakeholders across the Niger Delta and beyond are watching closely, as the results are expected to shape revenue flows, settle years of contention and redefine fiscal certainty in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

PWAN Trains Media on Police Reform and Accountability

Maryam Aminu

As Nigeria intensifies efforts to rebuild public trust in law enforcement, the Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative, widely known as Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN), has called on the media to take a frontline role in shaping accountability-driven police reforms through responsible and gender-responsive reporting.

This call was made on Monday in Abuja by the Executive Director of PWAN, Ms. Kemi Okenyodo, during her opening remarks at a one-day sensitisation workshop for media practitioners on reporting police reform and accountability issues.

Speaking on behalf of the Board, Management, and staff of the organisation, Okenyodo welcomed participants to the workshop, describing the media as a critical partner in advancing transparent, professional, and people-centred policing in Nigeria.
PWAN, a women-led non-governmental organisation, is dedicated to strengthening citizens’ participation, improving security governance, and enhancing protection systems across Nigeria and West Africa.

According to Okenyodo, the organisation’s work is rooted in the belief that effective security governance must be accountable, inclusive, professional, and responsive, particularly to the needs of women, youth, and other vulnerable groups.
She disclosed that the workshop forms part of PWAN’s ongoing project, “Enhancing Public Trust and Gender Responsive Policing in Nigeria Through Effective Implementation of the Police Act 2020 across the Six Geopolitical Zones,” being implemented with the support of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The project, she explained, is designed to strengthen police reform efforts by promoting institutional accountability, gender responsiveness, and improved public trust in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). By increasing public awareness of the Police Act 2020, the initiative seeks to reduce rights violations and foster a more citizen-responsive policing culture.
Okenyodo noted that the media sensitisation workshop aims to equip journalists with the knowledge, skills, and ethical tools required for accurate and impactful reporting on police reform, accountability, and gender-responsive policing.

She added that the engagement would also strengthen collaboration between the media and law enforcement, promote transparency, and deepen public understanding of the Police Act 2020 particularly its provisions on citizens’ rights, police accountability, professional conduct, and gender inclusion.

Beyond capacity building, the PWAN Executive Director described the workshop as a safe and inclusive platform for media practitioners to share experiences, voice concerns, and propose practical recommendations for improving trust and cooperation between communities and the Nigeria Police Force.

She urged participants to engage actively in the discussions, share diverse perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to conversations aimed at strengthening police accountability and democratic policing in Nigeria.

Okenyodo expressed optimism that the session would be productive and impactful, thanking participants for their commitment to advancing justice, transparency, and the rule of law.

Nigeria Shifts From Emergency Relief To Resilience As FG Launches 2026 Humanitarian Response Plan -Minister

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has declared a decisive shift in Nigeria’s humanitarian strategy, moving away from recurring emergency relief toward prevention, resilience, and sustainable human development, as it officially launched the 2026 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) in Abuja.

Speaking at the launch held at the UN House Auditorium, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro represented by Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu,, said the new plan reflects the government’s resolve to assume full leadership and ownership of humanitarian coordination while reducing long-term dependency on external aid.

According to the Minister, humanitarian action under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must serve as a bridge that supports stabilisation, restores dignity, and enables vulnerable Nigerians to permanently exit cycles of poverty and vulnerability.
“Humanitarian response must no longer be an end in itself. It must connect to recovery, strengthen resilience, and support communities to rebuild their lives sustainably,” Dr. Doro said.

He noted that while humanitarian interventions have played a critical role in mitigating the effects of conflict, climate shocks, displacement, and food insecurity particularly in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States Nigeria is now at a defining moment that demands a transition from repeated emergency responses to prevention and preparedness.

The Minister explained that the 2026 HNRP marks a strategic policy shift toward anticipatory action, early warning systems, risk-informed planning, and durable solutions, stressing that preventing crises is more humane, cost-effective, and sustainable than responding after devastation occurs.
Reaffirming government leadership, Dr. Doro stated that all humanitarian interventions must align with national policies and strengthen systems at the federal, state, and local levels, while contributing directly to poverty reduction, social protection, and inclusive growth.

He also emphasised localisation as a core priority, noting that Nigerian institutions, civil society organisations, women-led and youth-led groups, and community structures are central to effective response and lasting recovery.
“Displacement must not become permanent, and humanitarian aid must not replace governance or development. Our focus must remain on restoring livelihoods, expanding access to basic services, and addressing the root causes of vulnerability,” the Minister added.

Dr. Doro further highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing a Humanitarian–Development–Peace Nexus, describing it as essential for delivering lasting impact and ensuring humanitarian investments translate into improved quality of life for Nigerians.

The Minister’s remarks came against the backdrop of warnings by the United Nations that nearly 35 million Nigerians may face food insecurity during the upcoming lean season, with about three million children at risk of severe acute malnutrition. The UN also disclosed that the 2026 HNRP seeks $516 million to provide lifesaving assistance to 2.5 million people, amid declining global humanitarian funding.

Dr. Doro welcomed continued partnership with the international community but stressed that Nigeria’s humanitarian transition must be anchored on national ownership, accountability, and people-centred solutions.
“The success of the 2026 HNRP will depend not only on resources, but on how effectively we work together to deliver coordinated, accountable, and dignified outcomes for Nigerians,” he said.

He concluded by assuring that the Federal Government remains committed to leading Nigeria’s humanitarian and poverty reduction agenda in a manner that restores dignity, strengthens resilience, and ensures that no Nigerian is left behind.

UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall

UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, acknowledged the government’s increasing leadership and domestic resource mobilisation, noting that the era of internationally financed and delivered humanitarian action in Nigeria is gradually giving way to a nationally led and coordinated system.

Speaking in support of the government’s position, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, warned that humanitarian needs in the country are rising at a time when global funding is sharply declining.

He disclosed that nearly 35 million Nigerians could face food insecurity during the upcoming lean season, while about three million children are at risk of life-threatening severe acute malnutrition, describing the figures as “lives and futures, not just statistics.”

Fall noted that civilians in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States continue to face heightened protection risks due to renewed violent attacks, revealing that over 4,000 civilians were killed in the first eight months of 2025, the same number recorded in all of 2023.

He said the 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, which targets 2.5 million people at a cost of $516 million, reflects a necessary focus on the most lifesaving interventions, while underscoring a broader transition toward a nationally led humanitarian system, with greater domestic financing, strengthened coordination, and increased reliance on Nigerian institutions and community-based organisations.

FRC Chairman Hails NDIC For Exemplary Compliance, Prompt Remittance Of Operating Surplus

Maryam Aminu

The Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Mr. Victor Muruako, Esq., has commended the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) for its prompt, consistent, and exemplary remittance of operating surplus into the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF), in strict compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), 2007.

Mr. Muruako gave the commendation during a courtesy visit by the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the NDIC, Mr. Sunday Oludare Thompson, who led members of the Corporation’s newly appointed management team to the headquarters of the Commission.

Describing the NDIC as one of the most compliant government-owned institutions, the FRC Chairman said the Corporation has set a benchmark for fiscal responsibility and accountability among public agencies.

According to him, records available to the Commission show that NDIC has consistently fulfilled its statutory obligation on operating surplus remittance.
“If there is any agency that deserves to be recognised for strict compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act in terms of remitting operating surplus to the Consolidated Revenue Fund, NDIC would come first,” Mr. Muruako stated.

He urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other government-owned enterprises to emulate NDIC’s operational model, particularly its commitment to transparency and timely remittance of operating surplus, noting that such practices are critical to strengthening public finance management and national fiscal sustainability.

The NDIC is a statutory financial safety-net institution established to protect depositors, guarantee bank deposits, supervise insured financial institutions, and contribute to the overall stability of Nigeria’s financial system.

Although it is a self-funded agency, generating revenue mainly from premiums paid by insured institutions and investment income, the Corporation remains a public institution listed in the Schedule to the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, and is therefore fully subject to the provisions of the Act.
Sections 21 to 23 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act require government-owned corporations and agencies to remit a prescribed percentage of their operating surplus to the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

While the NDIC initially complied with the requirement to remit 80 per cent of its operating surplus, subsequent amendments through various Finance Acts and Finance Circulars have refined the framework to reflect the unique structure of self-funded regulatory agencies.
Under the most recent amendment contained in Finance Circular No. FMFCME/OTHERS/IGR/CRF/21/2023 dated 28 December 2023, the NDIC is required to remit 80 per cent of 50 per cent of its Gross Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

In his remarks, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the NDIC, Mr. Sunday Oludare Thompson, described the visit as a strategic stakeholder engagement, stressing that the Fiscal Responsibility Commission is one of the key institutions with which the Corporation considers it essential to maintain a strong working relationship.

He noted that both institutions share complementary mandates centred on promoting transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the management of public funds.

Mr. Thompson reaffirmed NDIC’s commitment to full compliance with all fiscal and regulatory obligations, as well as its resolve to continue building and sustaining its insurance funds in line with its statutory mandate.

He further pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Fiscal Responsibility Commission in the collective pursuit of sound financial governance and sustainable public finance management.

RMAFC Honours Director Paul Adefusi At Retirement Send-Forth

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, held a retirement send-forth ceremony in honour of the Director, Chairman’s Office, Mr. Paul Adefusi, celebrating his decades of meritorious service and invaluable contributions to the Commission.

The event, which took place at the Old Boardroom of the Commission’s headquarters, drew management and staff members who gathered to pay tribute to a career widely described as exemplary and impactful.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Honourable Chairman of RMAFC, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, described Mr. Adefusi as an intellectual, disciplined officer and a consummate professional whose contributions would leave a lasting imprint on the Commission.

Middle: RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu OFR; 1st L: Mr Paul Adefusi, Retired Director, Chairman Office; 1st R:Mrs Priscilla Subair Director Customs Revenue Department during the send forth ceremony

He praised his humility, dedication to duty, and ethical conduct, noting that these qualities significantly contributed to the institutional growth and effectiveness of RMAFC.

Dr. Shehu encouraged the retiring Director to explore new opportunities in consultancy, training, and advisory services, stressing that retirement should be seen as a transition into another phase of service rather than an end to active engagement.

Earlier, in opening remarks delivered on behalf of the Secretary to the Commission, Engr. Joseph Okechukwu Nwaze, the Director of Fiscal Efficiency Department, Dr. Tanimu Adamu Aliyu, described Mr. Adefusi as a quiet achiever whose integrity, loyalty, and commitment to excellence strengthened the operations of the Chairman’s Office and the Commission as a whole.

Goodwill messages followed from Directors of Customs Services, Gas Investments, Solid Minerals, and other senior officials of the Commission.

They spoke glowingly of Mr. Adefusi’s intelligence, sincerity, and calm leadership style, describing him as a dependable colleague, a listening leader, and a man whose professional legacy would endure within RMAFC.

Responding, Mr. Adefusi expressed profound gratitude to the leadership, management, and staff of the Commission for the cooperation and support he enjoyed throughout his career.

He described his years at RMAFC as fulfilling and rewarding, and pledged to remain an ambassador of the values of integrity, professionalism, and selfless service that defined his public service journey.

The ceremony marked a fitting tribute to a distinguished public servant whose legacy remains firmly etched in the history of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission