daudupress

Youth Ministry, NIMC Deepen Partnership to Expand Digital Identity Access for Nigerian Youths

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) have strengthened their partnership to accelerate digital identity inclusion for Nigerian youths, with both institutions pledging closer collaboration to expand access to the National Identification Number (NIN) and unlock greater opportunities in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

The renewed commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Identity Management Commission, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, and her delegation to the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, in Abuja.

Welcoming the delegation, Comrade Olawande described the visit as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration in advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of digital inclusion, youth empowerment, innovation and national development.

The Minister also congratulated the NIMC Director-General and the Commission’s management on the enactment of the NIMC Act, 2026, describing it as a landmark legislation that strengthens Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem and aligns the country’s identity management framework with international best practices.

According to him, the new law provides a robust legal and institutional framework for building a secure, inclusive and globally competitive digital identity system capable of supporting Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

He said the legislation marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards a secure and inclusive digital economy, stressing that Nigerian youths, as the country’s largest demographic of digital technology users, stand to benefit immensely from a trusted digital identity through improved access to education, employment, entrepreneurship, financial services, healthcare and government interventions.

Comrade Olawande noted that the National Identification Number has become essential for accessing government programmes and public services, adding that wider enrolment would enable more young Nigerians to benefit from developmental initiatives.

He further praised provisions of the Act aimed at promoting the inclusion of vulnerable groups, particularly youths in rural and underserved communities, while noting that digital identity remains critical to inclusive development and efficient service delivery.

The Minister also highlighted the “One Person, One Identity” principle, saying it would enhance transparency and accountability in government interventions by eliminating duplication, reducing fraud and ensuring benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.

R-L: The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande (Right), receives the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote (left), during a courtesy visit to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

He identified key areas of collaboration between the Ministry and NIMC to include expanding National Identification Number enrolment among young Nigerians, promoting digital identity awareness and literacy, facilitating nationwide youth registration and integrating digital identity into youth-focused programmes.
“The Federal Ministry of Youth Development remains committed to working closely with the National Identity Management Commission to increase NIN enrolment among young Nigerians, promote digital identity awareness and ensure that no young person is left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey,” the Minister said.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, represented by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Omolara Esan, stressed the need for sustained collaboration between both institutions to drive youth development through digital innovation.

She described digital identity as a critical enabler of youth empowerment, innovation and socio-economic inclusion, adding that strategic partnerships would help ensure young Nigerians, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, gain broader access to opportunities.

In her remarks, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, said the enactment of the NIMC Act, 2026, has repositioned the Commission as Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure institution.

She explained that the Commission is laying the foundation for a robust digital public infrastructure that will support Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the private sector and citizens through secure, reliable and interoperable digital identity services.

Engr. Coker-Odusote also disclosed that NIMC is establishing Nigeria’s Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to serve as the backbone for trusted digital authentication and secure electronic transactions nationwide.

She noted that the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development by identifying practical initiatives capable of delivering measurable impact for Nigerian youths.

According to her, NIMC manages one of Africa’s largest identity databases and remains committed to leveraging the platform to support Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda while expanding opportunities through a secure and credible identity system.

Defence Ministry Debunks Allowance Non-Payment Claims, Says Arrears Being Cleared

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Ministry of Defence has dismissed reports alleging the non-payment of allowances to House Officers and Interns serving at Armed Forces Reference Hospitals, insisting that the claims are misleading as payment of outstanding allowances is already underway.

The clarification was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Richard Pheelangwah, on Monday, who explained that the Ministry had commenced the phased payment of arrears while efforts continue to secure funds to offset the remaining outstanding balances.

According to the Ministry, payments have so far been made in three phases: on March 26, 2026, Batches A and B received their January and February 2026 allowances; on April 30, 2026, the same batches were paid their March 2026 allowances; while on July 8, 2026, Batches A and B received April 2026 allowances, alongside Batch C, which was paid its December 2025 and January 2026 allowances.

The Ministry attributed the delay in payments to the absence of budgetary allocation for the House Officers and Interns Programme since January 2026, stressing that the situation was not caused by any administrative lapse.

It disclosed that it had formally notified the Budget Office of the Federation of the funding shortfall through official correspondences dated February 18, 2026, and July 1, 2026, requesting urgent intervention to address the challenge.

The statement revealed that 703 House Officers and Interns were engaged under the 2025/2026 House Officers and Interns Programme. It added that Batches A and B have now been paid up to April 2026, while Batch C, comprising 90 House Officers and Interns, has received allowances covering December 2025 and January 2026.

According to the Ministry, the outstanding arrears resulted from the omission of budgetary provisions for the House Officers and Interns Programme in the 2026 Appropriation Act, describing the development as unprecedented and the first of its kind since the programme was established.

It noted that for more than four decades, the programme has remained a statutory and strategic component of the Ministry’s healthcare system, playing a vital role in training medical professionals for the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the country.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the funding challenge and thanked the affected House Officers, Interns and their families for their patience, understanding and dedication.

It also urged members of the public to disregard what it described as misleading reports and rely only on official communications issued by the Ministry of Defence.

Defence Minister Hails Security Forces Over Successful Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has commended Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of pupils and teachers kidnapped from three schools in Oyo State, describing the operation as a major victory for intelligence-led security operations and inter-agency collaboration.

The commendation was conveyed by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Retired), in a statement issued on Monday, in which he praised the gallant officers and men who carried out the operation and extended condolences to personnel who lost their lives during the mission.

The rescue operation, conducted on July 10, 2026, secured the freedom of pupils and staff abducted from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, and L.A. Primary School, Ahoro-Esinele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

According to the minister, the mission was executed through the coordinated efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the National Security Adviser (NSA) Tactical Team, and other security and paramilitary agencies.

General Musa described the operation as a textbook example of modern, intelligence-driven security operations, noting that the seamless collaboration among the various agencies demonstrated professionalism, courage, and an unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.

He said the successful rescue underscores the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and reflects the dedication and sacrifices of security personnel who continue to defend the country’s territorial integrity under difficult conditions.

The Defence Minister also paid tribute to personnel who died during the operation, describing them as courageous and selfless officers whose sacrifices represent the highest ideals of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

He assured the bereaved families of the Federal Government’s continued support and commitment to the welfare of families of fallen heroes while praying for strength and comfort for those affected by the loss.

Reaffirming the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, General Musa said the administration remains determined to strengthen the operational capabilities of the military and law enforcement agencies in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He noted that sustained investments in modern military platforms, advanced intelligence capabilities, specialised personnel training, and enhanced inter-agency cooperation are already producing positive outcomes across various theatres of operation and will further boost Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.

While celebrating the safe rescue of the victims, the minister urged commanders and operatives across all operational theatres to sustain the momentum by replicating the same level of coordination and tactical excellence in ongoing security operations.

He also expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Oyo State for their cooperation during the rescue mission and appealed to Nigerians to remain vigilant by providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies in the collective fight against insecurity.

General Musa reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to supporting the nation’s security architecture and building a safer, more secure, and prosperous Nigeria.

Oil-Producing States Sue FG Over PIA Revenue Deductions, Court Adjourns for Settlement Talks

By Maryam Aminu

Eight oil-producing states have asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to nullify provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 that allow the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) to deduct 60 per cent of revenue from profit oil and profit gas before remitting the balance to the Federation Account, arguing that the practice has significantly reduced their constitutional derivation earnings.

The suit, instituted in June 2023 by Delta, Bayelsa, Edo, Anambra, Ondo, Akwa Ibom, Imo and Abia states, is against NNPC Ltd, the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Attorney General of the Federation, the Accountant General of the Federation, the Federal Ministry of Finance, and the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

Speaking after Tuesday’s proceedings, lead counsel to the plaintiffs, Barr. Abang Odok Ogar of Abang Odok Ogar & Co, said the action challenges Sections 9 and 64 of the Petroleum Industry Act, insisting that the provisions are inconsistent with Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution.

Ogar explained that the disputed sections empower NNPC Ltd to retain 60 per cent of revenue from profit oil and profit gas for exploration activities and management fees, while remitting only 40 per cent into the Federation Account, from which the constitutionally guaranteed 13 per cent derivation for oil-producing states is calculated.

He argued that the Constitution mandates that 100 per cent of revenue generated from crude oil and gas sales be paid into the Federation Account before the derivation allocation is distributed.

“The deductions have substantially reduced the revenue accruing to the Federation Account and, by extension, the 13 per cent derivation allocation due to oil-producing states and their communities,” Ogar stated.

At the hearing held on July 7, counsel representing the Attorney General of the Federation, the fourth defendant, sought a further adjournment to enable parties explore an out-of-court settlement.

The Federal High Court granted the request and adjourned the matter until November 2, 2026, when all parties are expected to update the court on the outcome of the settlement discussions.

Defence Minister Commissions Armoured Fleet in Sokoto, Orders Troops to Crush Insecurity

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to strengthen security operations in Nigeria’s North-West, with the Honourable Minister of Defence, His Excellency General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), commissioning a newly acquired fleet of armoured vehicles and security equipment in Sokoto State while directing security personnel to intensify operations against criminal elements.

The Minister, in a statement signed by Captain Moses Yare, Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Defence, described the security assets procured by the Sokoto State Government as a strategic investment that would significantly enhance the nation’s internal security architecture and improve the operational effectiveness of troops.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony in Sokoto on Wednesday, General Musa commended the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu, for prioritising the safety of residents through sustained investment in security, noting that lasting peace remains the foundation for sustainable development.

He said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, stressing that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting lives, restoring peace and creating an environment that supports economic growth and national stability.

According to the Defence Minister, addressing today’s evolving security threats requires stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, local authorities and security agencies.

General Musa explained that the newly deployed armoured vehicles and security equipment would provide enhanced force protection, improved mobility and faster response capabilities for security personnel operating in the region.

He, however, stressed that sophisticated equipment alone cannot guarantee success, insisting that professionalism, discipline and effective inter-agency collaboration remain critical to winning the fight against insecurity.

The Minister also applauded the Sokoto State Government for complementing military operations with community-based intelligence initiatives, describing public trust and timely intelligence as vital components of effective security operations.

Addressing troops deployed to the frontline, General Musa urged them to deploy the newly acquired assets responsibly, uphold the rule of law and demonstrate professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

He charged the personnel to justify the significant public investment through selfless service, integrity and decisive action against criminal elements threatening peace and security.

The Defence Minister reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to leveraging advanced technology and improving personnel welfare in pursuit of a safer and more prosperous Nigeria where citizens can live and work without fear.

Dr. Maryam Keshinro Honoured with African Trailblazer Award for Public Service Excellence

Maryam Aminu

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, has added another feather to her cap after emerging as the recipient of the African Trailblazer Merit Award for Strategic Public Service and Administrative Governance, in recognition of her transformational leadership, administrative reforms and unwavering commitment to youth development in Nigeria.

The honour was announced in a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations of the ministry, Omolara Esan, who said the award was conferred by the Unveiling African Parliament Writers Network (UAPWN), a coalition of print, broadcast and digital journalists drawn from six African countries, to celebrate outstanding public officials driving impactful governance across the continent.

According to the statement, the organisers said Dr. Keshinro distinguished herself through visionary leadership, policy innovation and a people-focused approach that has strengthened institutional performance, improved public service delivery and expanded opportunities for young Nigerians.

The award committee particularly highlighted her strategic interventions in repositioning the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), including sustained advocacy for increased funding and the rehabilitation and upgrade of orientation camp facilities nationwide. The efforts, it noted, have enhanced the welfare and safety of corps members while improving the operational efficiency of the scheme.

Dr. Keshinro was equally praised for deepening collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, state and local governments, development partners and civil society organisations to broaden access to vocational training, digital skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and youth employability programmes.

Describing her leadership as exemplary, the organisers said Dr. Keshinro has consistently combined administrative excellence with compassion, inclusiveness and accountability, creating a governance model that has inspired confidence among staff, stakeholders and development partners.

The African Trailblazer Merit Award is one of the flagship recognitions under the African Legislative Excellence Merit Awards, an initiative established to honour individuals, institutions and organisations making remarkable contributions to good governance, democratic growth and people-centred service delivery across Africa.

As part of the recognition, Dr. Keshinro will also feature in the maiden edition of the forthcoming African Trailblazers Magazine, a continental publication showcasing exceptional leaders, innovative ideas and transformative development initiatives.

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development congratulated the Permanent Secretary on the prestigious honour, describing the award as a testament to her dedication to excellence, while reaffirming its commitment to implementing policies and programmes that empower Nigerian youths, strengthen public institutions and accelerate sustainable national development.

Troops Kill 662 Terrorists, Arrest 1,084 Suspects, Rescue 951 Victims in Q2- DHQ

By Maryam Aminu/ Emmanuel Daudu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) intensified its nationwide security operations in the second quarter of 2026, eliminating no fewer than 662 terrorists and criminal elements, arresting 1,084 suspects and rescuing 951 kidnapped victims as the military deepened intelligence-led offensives aimed at dismantling criminal support networks across the country.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), which disclosed the figures in Abuja on Wednesday, said the operations reflected a strategic shift from conventional combat to targeting the logistics, financing and operational structures sustaining insurgency, kidnapping and organised criminality.

Addressing journalists at the quarterly Defence Media Operations briefing, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said troops recorded significant operational gains through coordinated land offensives, close air support and intelligence-driven missions conducted across all theatres of operation.

According to him, the Armed Forces sustained pressure on Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), kidnapping syndicates, illegal oil bunkering cartels and cross-border arms traffickers.

He described the achievements as evidence of “the enduring commitment of a professional and resolute force dedicated to restoring peace, stability and confidence across every geopolitical zone of the nation.”

The North-East remained the centre of military engagements under Operation Hadin Kai, where troops accounted for the highest number of successes with 484 terrorists neutralised, 370 suspects arrested and 595 kidnapped victims rescued.

Major General Onoja also disclosed that 38 insurgents and their family members surrendered during the period, while one of the most significant breakthroughs came during a coordinated operation in the Mandara Mountains area of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, where 360 civilians, mostly women and children, were rescued.

In the North-West theatre under Operation Fansan Yamma, troops neutralised 77 terrorists, arrested 210 suspects and rescued 153 kidnapped victims while intercepting arms traffickers, logistics suppliers and collaborators operating across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi and Zamfara states.

Operations across the North-Central under Operations Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke resulted in the killing of 83 terrorists, the arrest of 305 suspects and the rescue of 183 kidnapped victims.

The military said particular attention was given to dismantling criminal infrastructure through targeted operations against informants, logistics providers, illegal arms couriers and kidnapping collaborators.

In the South-East, troops operating under Operation Udo Ka killed 12 terrorists, arrested 115 suspects and rescued 20 kidnapped victims.

The military further disclosed that troops recovered large quantities of weapons, improvised explosive devices and ammunition, while several key commanders and logisticians linked to criminal activities were apprehended during targeted raids.

Meanwhile, in the South-South region, Operation Delta Safe focused on combating economic sabotage and organised criminality.

According to the DHQ, troops neutralised six criminal elements, arrested 84 suspects, dismantled 12 illegal refining sites and recovered over 464,268 litres of stolen petroleum products in what it described as a major setback for oil theft operations in the Niger Delta.

The Defence Headquarters noted that the high number of arrests compared to terrorists eliminated demonstrates an evolving operational approach focused on disrupting support structures and weakening criminal networks beyond battlefield encounters.

Reaffirming the military’s commitment, Major General Onoja assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would sustain counter-terrorism, counter-banditry, anti-kidnapping, anti-oil theft and anti-arms proliferation operations to consolidate security gains nationwide.

He also urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies through timely and credible intelligence sharing.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) further unveiled a strengthened intelligence-driven security strategy and introduced a new toll-free emergency reporting line, 193, as part of efforts to deepen citizen participation in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and organised crime across Nigeria.

Onoja explained that the new toll-free line, 193, was introduced to encourage Nigerians to provide timely and actionable intelligence capable of supporting ongoing military operations and improving rapid response mechanisms.

NASENI Reaffirms Commitment to Research Commercialisation, Unveils Breakthrough in Nanocellulose Innovation

Maryam Aminu

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has reaffirmed its commitment to commercialising research outcomes and driving innovation that supports Nigeria’s industrialisation and economic growth, as it called on scientists and researchers within the Agency to intensify efforts toward developing market-driven technologies.

The call was made by the Director, Nano Science Department, NASENI, Dr. Chika Ezeanyanaso, while declaring open the “NASENI Hybrid Scientific Engagement Programme: Science Perspective” on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The seminar, organised by the Science Infrastructure Directorate, was designed to strengthen collaboration among researchers, promote knowledge exchange and accelerate scientific innovation across the Agency.

Addressing participants, Dr. Ezeanyanaso described the engagement as a strategic platform for fostering collaboration and generating ideas capable of translating scientific research into technologies that will boost Nigeria’s industrial and economic development.

She explained that the programme is an expanded version of the department’s regular scientific seminar series, aimed at encouraging wider participation across the NASENI system.
“This seminar provides an opportunity for colleagues to learn from one another and generate ideas that will support innovation and national economic growth,” she said.

Dr. Ezeanyanaso urged participants to actively engage in the discussions, stressing that scientific advancement thrives on the free exchange of ideas rather than hierarchy.
“There is no seniority here; what matters is knowledge sharing,” she added.

The Director also commended the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, for his continued support for research and innovation across the Agency.

Front row: Director, Nano Science Department, NASENI, Dr. Chika Ezeanyanaso (9th from left); Overseeing Officer, Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Institute (AMTDI), Jalingo, Mr. Barkindo Abdulrahman Bawuro (8th from left); Deputy Director, Research Laboratory Department, Dr Hassan Bakare (10th from left); Deputy Director, Nanoscience Department, Mr. Kayode Oladipo (6th from right) and Chief Engineer, Scientific Equipment Development Institute, Enugu, Engr. Dr Samuel Wadzani Gadzama; and other staff of the Agency in a group photograph during the seminar.

She equally appreciated the Overseeing Officer of the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Institute (AMTDI), Jalingo, Mr. Barkindo Abdulrahman Bawuro, while reaffirming the department’s commitment to sustaining research that will lead to continuous scientific discoveries and technological innovation.

A major highlight of the seminar was a presentation by Engr. Dr Samuel Wadzani Gadzama, Chief Engineer, Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI), Enugu, who presented an overview of nanoscience research undertaken by the Agency since 2013.

Dr. Gadzama revealed a significant research breakthrough involving the extraction of nanocellulose fibre from pineapple leaves following extensive laboratory testing conducted both within Nigeria and internationally.

According to him, the research has resulted in the development of a sustainable material with considerable industrial potential, noting that the nanocellulose fibre can serve as a raw material for producing biodegradable plastics and other environmentally friendly products.

In his vote of thanks, Deputy Director of the Research Laboratory Department, Dr Hassan Bakare, praised the Science Infrastructure Directorate for creating a platform that encourages scientific exchange and collaborative learning.

He also advocated the establishment of a joint seminar platform involving the Science and Engineering Infrastructure Directorates to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, accelerate innovation and further strengthen NASENI’s contribution to industrial growth and national development.

Amid Escalating Crisis and Food Shortages, Japan Supports Families Facing Extreme Hunger in Nigeria

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Government of Japan has stepped up humanitarian assistance to Nigeria by providing resources to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to support families facing severe hunger in the country’s conflict-ridden northeast.

The intervention comes as food insecurity reaches alarming levels across Nigeria, particularly in the northern region, where years of conflict, displacement and economic hardship have left millions struggling to access adequate food.

According to the WFP, millions of people remain in displacement camps due to persistent insecurity, with many unable to return to their farms. The agency said the combined impact of prolonged conflict, rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of essential commodities has made it difficult for many households to afford even one nutritious meal a day.

The organisation noted that Japan’s contribution would provide critical food assistance to vulnerable families in northeast Nigeria, where humanitarian needs continue to rise.

One of the beneficiaries, Hadiza, a 30-year-old widow and mother of four from Borno State, said the assistance has given her family renewed hope after years of hardship caused by the insurgency.

“After years of displacement and loss, the support I receive from WFP is helping me to care for my children and rebuild our lives. This food assistance is a lifeline for my little ones and me,” she said.

Speaking on the intervention, WFP Nigeria’s Programme Policy Officer, Itaru Furata, described Japan’s support as timely, saying millions of people in northern Nigeria are facing unprecedented levels of hunger.

He said the donation would provide much-needed relief to families struggling to survive and urged other development partners and donors to support WFP’s humanitarian efforts in the country.

“Japan’s support comes at a critical moment, as millions of people in northern Nigeria face unprecedented levels of hunger, offering much-needed assistance to families struggling to survive. We do not take this support for granted and call on other donors to follow suit in joining our mission to save the lives of the most vulnerable,” Furata said.

The WFP stated that despite worsening insecurity, it has continued to deliver emergency food assistance and other humanitarian interventions to communities affected by conflict, displacement and climate-related shocks.

The agency said it has maintained operations over the past decade across Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states, where insecurity and environmental challenges have disrupted food production, markets and livelihoods.

It warned that the humanitarian situation could worsen without increased international support, stressing that the consequences of hunger extend beyond food shortages to include instability, insecurity, forced displacement and a greater risk of vulnerable people being recruited by armed groups.

The organisation therefore appealed to donors and partners to increase their support, maintaining that sustained humanitarian assistance remains essential to saving lives, stabilising communities and promoting long-term peace and resilience in northeast Nigeria.

MYISD Hails Marwa’s Security Leader Award, Says Fight Against Drug Abuse Deserves National Support

By Maryam Aminu

The Executive Director of Michelle Youth Initiative for Sustainable Development (MYISD), Princess Mimi Peters, has congratulated the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) CON, OFR, on his recognition as Security Leader of the Year 2025, describing the honour as a deserving tribute to a man leading one of Nigeria’s most critical battles against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

Princess Peters said the award, presented by Ogun Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC (OSRS), United States, reflects the growing national and international recognition of Marwa’s relentless efforts in strengthening drug control, promoting rehabilitation and protecting communities from the devastating consequences of substance abuse.

She noted that drug abuse remains one of the most dangerous threats confronting modern societies, warning that its effects extend beyond individual users to fuel insecurity, destroy families, weaken communities, affect mental health, reduce productivity and expose young people to criminality and social instability.

According to her, the rising prevalence of substance abuse across communities continues to pose serious challenges to public health, education, economic growth and national development.

Princess Peters disclosed that concerns around the growing impact of drug abuse informed her organisation’s decision to prioritise conversations around substance abuse at its forthcoming national female youth conference as part of efforts to drive awareness, prevention and youth engagement.

L-R: Chairman NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa and Founder OSRS, Dr. Sunday Oludare Ogunlana

Commending Brig Gen Marwa’s leadership, she said the NDLEA under his watch has witnessed renewed momentum through strengthened enforcement operations, sustained public enlightenment campaigns, rehabilitation interventions and strategic stakeholder engagement. She urged other security leaders and institutions to draw lessons from Marwa’s approach to service and institutional reform.

She said: “This recognition reflects not only outstanding leadership but also the importance of sustained action against the drug menace that continues to threaten the future of many young people and communities.

“Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa has shown remarkable dedication in leading efforts aimed at curbing drug abuse and trafficking while advancing a safer and healthier society. His work serves as an inspiration to institutions, development organisations and young people across the country.”

Princess Peters reaffirmed MYISD’s commitment to advancing advocacy, youth development and sustainable initiatives that encourage healthy living and protect young people from the dangers associated with substance abuse.

She also expressed the organisation’s readiness to collaborate with individuals and institutions both within Nigeria and across the diaspora in driving economic development and impactful social interventions.

Speaking further, Princess Peters reserved special commendation for the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of OSRS, Dr. Sunday Oludare Ogunlana, describing him as a worthy ambassador whose commitment to recognising excellence from the diaspora demonstrates patriotism, visionary leadership and enduring connection to national development.

She applauded Dr. Ogunlana for not only identifying and celebrating impactful leadership but for creating platforms that project Nigeria’s positive stories globally.

According to her, despite being based abroad, Dr. Ogunlana has continued to honour distinguished Nigerians contributing meaningfully to national growth and security, urging Nigerians in the diaspora to emulate such deliberate efforts in giving back and promoting excellence at home.

Princess Peters also appreciated Dr. Ogunlana for finding Michelle Youth Initiative for Sustainable Development worthy to be part of the delegation that presented the award to the NDLEA leadership.

She wished Brig Gen Marwa continued strength, wisdom and success in advancing national security and safeguarding future generations.

The Security Leader of the Year 2025 Award was presented to the NDLEA Chairman/CEO at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja during a brief ceremony attended by senior officials of the Agency and members of the OSRS delegation.