Nigeria’s quest to overcome its security challenges received a fresh boost on Thursday as the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, challenged innovators, startups and researchers to develop indigenous technologies capable of strengthening the country’s defence architecture.
Speaking at the Omniverse Africa 3.0 Summit in Lagos, General Musa declared that modern security demands more than conventional military hardware, urging Nigeria to transition from being a consumer of defence technology to becoming a producer of homegrown solutions. The Minister’s remarks were contained in a statement signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.
Delivering a keynote address titled “The 70/30 Rule: Why Nigeria’s Security and Innovation Agendas are the Same National Project,” the Defence Minister said the future of national security would be driven by technology, industrial capability and innovation alongside military strength. “The future requires us to complement courage with technology, foresight, industrial capability, and innovation,” he said. “We must secure the nation today, but we must also build the capabilities that will secure the nation tomorrow.”
General Musa disclosed that the Ministry of Defence is already restructuring its doctrine, procurement processes and training systems to prioritise critical areas such as unmanned systems and robotics, surveillance technologies, cybersecurity, secure communications, artificial intelligence governance, data-driven decision-making tools and advanced domestic manufacturing.
He explained that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on industrialisation, adding that ongoing reforms at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) are designed to create an ecosystem where defence investments stimulate economic growth, generate high-tech jobs, support university research and open new commercial opportunities.
As part of efforts to deepen collaboration between the military and technology ecosystem, the Minister launched the Defence Futures Lab Pathway, a side event convened by Kryterion.
He, however, cautioned participants against viewing the initiative as a procurement platform, stressing that its primary objective is to foster capability development, innovation and long-term strategic planning for the defence sector. “This is an opportunity to think ahead, organise better, and explore practical ways of strengthening the wider defence ecosystem,” he stated.
Participants at the roundtable session agreed to reconvene in three months to review progress, assess emerging technology concepts and align future actions with the Federal Government’s indigenous defence strategy.
The Nigeria Female Youths Organization (NFYO) in collaboration with Michelle’s youth initiative for Sustainable Development (MYiSD), has sought the partnership and support of the Federal Ministry of Finance for the proposed First National Female Youth Conference 2026, a landmark gatering expected to bring together more than 1,000 young women leaders from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to discuss governance, financial inclusion, leadership and national development.
The request was made during a courtesy visit by a delegation of the organization, led by its President, Princess Mimi Peters, to the ministry in Abuja. The visit provided an opportunity for discussions on the objectives of the proposed conference and possible areas of collaboration ahead of the event scheduled to hold from August 6 to 8, 2026.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, the Director of Special Duties, Sani-Yusuf Fatima, assured the group that their requests and proposals would be conveyed to the minister for consideration.
Fatima noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to the development and empowerment of the girl child, stressing that young women possess enormous potential to drive economic growth, innovation and national transformation when provided with the right opportunities and support.
She emphasized the need for deliberate interventions aimed at addressing emerging social and behavioural challenges among young people while promoting positive values, leadership development and productive civic engagement.
According to her, youth-focused conferences and initiatives that encourage education, entrepreneurship, financial literacy and civic responsibility are critical to building a more responsible, productive and globally competitive generation.
the Director of Special Duties, Sani-Yusuf Fatima
The ministry also underscored the importance of financial inclusion and economic empowerment, noting that young women must be equipped with the skills, knowledge and resources required to participate meaningfully in the nation’s economy and contribute to sustainable development.
The delegation commended the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, for the ministry’s prompt response to its request for engagement, describing it as a demonstration of commitment to youth and women development.
Princess Peters noted that the visit came barely two weeks after the organization submitted its letter seeking collaboration with the ministry, a response time she described as commendable considering the volume of requests received by government institutions.
According to her, the swift invitation reflected a leadership style that values constructive engagement and recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for young women to contribute meaningfully to national discourse and development.
She said the development had strengthened the confidence of members of the organization in the government’s willingness to listen to the concerns, aspirations and contributions of young Nigerians.
Princess Peters stated that the proposed conference aligns strongly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on economic empowerment, human capital development, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and youth participation in nation-building.
According to her, the conference is designed to complement ongoing government efforts by equipping young women with practical knowledge, leadership skills and access to opportunities that will enable them contribute meaningfully to national development.
She explained that the conference, themed “Her Voice, Her Future: Nigeria Female Youths Shaping National Action,” was conceived in response to the limited participation of young women in economic and policy decision-making processes despite their growing population and contributions to national development.
Princess Peters noted that Nigeria has more than 60 million young women between the ages of 15 and 35, yet only about 35 per cent are financially included while less than 10 per cent participate in formal economic policy spaces.
She said the conference aims to strengthen financial literacy, encourage entrepreneurship, promote national cohesion and create direct engagement between young women and key government institutions on policies affecting their future.
Beyond economic empowerment and leadership development, she explained that the conference is also intended to address the growing social vices involving young people across the country.
According to her, participants will be equipped with the knowledge, values and advocacy skills needed to promote responsible citizenship, ethical leadership and positive behavioural change within their communities.
She noted that women and girls occupy strategic positions within families and society and can play a significant role in influencing positive attitudes among young people, including the boy child. “We believe that empowering women and girls with the right knowledge and leadership tools will enable them to become agents of positive change in their homes, schools and communities. Through this conference, we hope to inspire a generation that will help reduce social vices such as drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime, violence and other negative behaviours affecting our youths,” she said.
Princess Peters stated that the organization is seeking collaboration with the Ministry of Finance in areas including a keynote address on financial inclusion, technical sessions on access to finance, participation of ministry experts in capacity-building programmes and the establishment of a platform for sustained engagement between young women and policymakers.
She expressed confidence that the conference would produce practical outcomes, including the training of over 1,000 delegates on financial literacy, leadership development, civic responsibility and government empowerment opportunities.
Princess Peters further expressed optimism that collaboration with the Ministry of Finance would help translate discussions from the conference into actionable programmes and policy recommendations capable of improving the economic prospects of young women and contributing to national development.
She added that the conference would provide a unique platform for interaction among policymakers, development partners, private sector leaders and young women from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration and generating innovative solutions to challenges affecting women and youths nationwide.
Italy has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic, educational and diplomatic ties with Nigeria, expressing confidence that the resolution of the long-standing controversy involving ENI will unlock fresh investments and strengthen bilateral relations between both countries.
Speaking at a reception to mark the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic in Abuja, the Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, H.E. Roberto Mengoni, said Italy remained committed to supporting Nigeria’s democratic development, security and socio-economic progress while encouraging greater commercial engagement between the two nations.
Mengoni noted that Italian businesses have played significant roles in Nigeria’s development over the decades, citing companies such as AGIP, now known as ENI, Salini, B-Stabilini, Cappa D’Alberto and Orobica. He expressed optimism that more Italian companies and citizens would be encouraged to invest in Nigeria. “We are sure that the resolution of the long pending controversy with ENI, thanks to the efforts of the Nigerian government, will bring more investments and interest from Italy,” he said.
The ambassador also highlighted growing cooperation between the two countries at the international level, recalling that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attended an international conference on the fight against terrorism in Rome last year, where he met with Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
According to him, Nigeria and Italy will later this year jointly chair the international conference for the replenishment of the Global Partnership for Education, a major global initiative aimed at supporting education, particularly across Africa.
Mengoni further acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians living in Italy, revealing that as of 2025, about 132,000 Nigerians were legally resident in the European country, working across transportation, industry, agriculture, hospitality and commerce while contributing to economic growth and social development.
He cited Paola Enogu, captain of the Italian women’s volleyball team that won gold at the Paris Olympics, as an example of the positive contributions of Nigerians and their descendants to Italian society, noting that she was born and raised in Italy to Nigerian parents.
The envoy used the occasion of Italy’s Republic Day celebration to reflect on the country’s democratic journey since June 2, 1946, when Italians voted to establish a republic in the aftermath of World War II.
Describing the Italian Republic as “imperfect, troubled and beloved,” Mengoni said the country emerged from the devastation of war determined to reject fascism, colonialism, oppression and discrimination, while building a society founded on democracy, equality and inclusion. He drew attention to Article 3 of the Italian Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law regardless of gender, race, language, religion, political opinion or social condition, and mandates the state to remove obstacles that limit citizens’ freedom and equality.
The ambassador also devoted a significant part of his address to the progress of women in Italy, recalling that women voted for the first time on June 2, 1946, and subsequently played key roles in drafting the country’s post-war constitution and rebuilding the nation.
He recounted how decades of activism by Italian women helped dismantle discriminatory laws and social barriers, allowing women greater freedom and participation in public life.
Quoting former minister Tina Anselmi, Mengoni said: “When women commit to change, their victories are victories for the whole society.” Despite the progress made, he acknowledged that challenges remain, including gender inequality in political representation, employment opportunities, wage levels and violence against women.
On global affairs, the ambassador stressed the importance of international cooperation and adherence to international law in addressing conflicts and global challenges. Referencing remarks by President Mattarella, he warned against the dangers of division and hostility, saying nations must choose between preserving international law and embracing confrontation that could lead to prolonged conflicts.
Looking ahead, Mengoni said Italy viewed Africa as a neighbour and partner in addressing shared challenges such as terrorism, international crime, poverty and climate change. “Italy does not teach lessons,” he said. “We can only offer to Nigeria our imperfect example of a country that through decades of hard work has changed for the better.”
He added that the democratic journey that began in Italy 80 years ago remains a continuing process, driven by a commitment to peace, democracy, solidarity and social justice.
Agriculture remains one of Nigeria’s most promising sectors for tackling youth unemployment, boosting food production and diversifying the economy. With millions of young people seeking sustainable livelihoods, the Federal Government has unveiled the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YiALTF), a major intervention designed to increase youth participation in agriculture, expand access to farmland and accelerate the growth of youth-led agribusinesses across the country.
The initiative was launched in Abuja by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in partnership with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), with stakeholders describing it as a strategic move to modernise agriculture and strengthen food security through youth-driven enterprise.
Speaking at the launch, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, said the programme would address longstanding challenges limiting young people’s involvement in agriculture, particularly access to land.
According to him, YiALTF goes beyond land allocation by providing a comprehensive support system that includes capacity building, access to finance, mechanisation services, modern technology, mentorship, business incubation and market linkages.
Describing the initiative as a transformative platform, Olawande said it would create opportunities for young Nigerians to become key players in the agricultural value chain while contributing to economic growth. “The YiALTF is not just a programme; it is a national platform for youth empowerment and economic transformation. We are creating pathways for young Nigerians to become active players and leaders in the agribusiness ecosystem,” he said.
The minister disclosed that the programme would convert the Ministry’s 42 Youth Development Centres into functional agribusiness hubs, train six million youths over the next three years and support the establishment of at least 500,000 youth-led agribusiness enterprises nationwide.
Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, stressed the importance of efficient land utilisation and youth-led innovation in achieving food security, economic diversification and national development.
Pictorial Story: The Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (R), the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, and one of the beneficiaries of the ₦1 million grant, Miss Orji Chiamaka Precious, during the presentation segment of the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YiALTF) launch, held in Abuja on Monday, June 1, 2026.
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, described YiALTF as a landmark initiative capable of transforming underutilised public assets into productive agribusiness platforms.
She called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, development partners and private-sector stakeholders to ensure the programme achieves its objectives and delivers lasting impact.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, delivering her welcome address at the launch of the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YiALTF), held in Abuja on Monday, June 1, 2026.
Representing the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, Barr. Gloria Ibrahim commended the initiative, describing it as a practical response to challenges facing young agripreneurs, especially in the areas of land accessibility and enterprise development.
The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, pledged the Scheme’s support for the implementation of the programme, while the Director-General of IITA, Dr. Simeon Ehui, said its success would ultimately be measured by the number of empowered youths and thriving agribusiness ventures created. As part of activities marking the launch, 10 young farmers received grants of ₦1 million each to expand their businesses.
Pictorial Story: Cross section of participants, stakeholders, development partners, youth representatives, and invited guests during the launch of the Youth in Agribusiness Land Trust Fund (YiALTF), held in Abuja on Monday, June 1, 2026.
One of the beneficiaries, Orji Chiamaka Precious, a beekeeper, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and its partners, saying the support would significantly boost her enterprise and create new opportunities for growth.
The YiALTF is expected to play a key role in the Federal Government’s broader efforts to empower young people, strengthen Nigeria’s food systems and position agriculture as a driver of inclusive economic development.
Three Years After: Socialist Group Says Nigerians Face Deepening Hardship, Insecurity Under Tinubu
By Maryam Aminu
As many Nigerians continue to grapple with rising living costs, growing insecurity and shrinking economic opportunities, the Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM) has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of failing to improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens three years after assuming office.
The group alleged that the country’s economic and security challenges have worsened under the current administration, leaving millions of Nigerians struggling with poverty, unemployment and uncertainty.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its Publicity Secretary, Salako Kayode, the organisation said the past three years had brought increasing hardship for many households across the country.
According to the group, soaring inflation has significantly reduced the purchasing power of citizens, making essential needs such as food, transportation, housing, electricity and healthcare increasingly difficult to afford.
The RSM argued that key economic decisions taken by the government, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the naira, have intensified economic pressure on working-class Nigerians while benefiting a small segment of the population.
The organisation maintained that many workers can no longer adequately support their families, while numerous small and medium-scale businesses are struggling to survive amid rising operational costs.
It also expressed concern over growing youth unemployment, increased educational expenses and what it described as worsening conditions in public institutions. The group further lamented the situation of pensioners and retirees, saying many have been left to endure severe economic hardship.
On the security situation, the movement said Nigerians continue to face threats from kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks in different parts of the country. It cited recent abduction incidents in Oyo State as evidence that citizens remain vulnerable despite repeated assurances from government authorities.
The group argued that the country’s challenges are rooted in long-standing economic and political policies pursued by successive administrations, alleging that both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have failed to prioritise the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
According to the RSM, the current administration has continued and intensified policies it described as unfavourable to the poor.
The organisation, however, urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite prevailing challenges, calling on workers, students, farmers and youths to become more actively involved in shaping the country’s political future.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the group called for greater political mobilisation and urged citizens to support alternatives it believes can address the nation’s economic and social challenges.
The RSM also endorsed the African Action Congress (AAC), describing the party as a platform committed to policies centred on job creation, quality education, healthcare delivery, security and social welfare.
It further called for grassroots mobilisation across workplaces, communities and educational institutions, insisting that meaningful change would require collective action and sustained civic engagement.
The statement concluded that Nigeria possesses sufficient human and natural resources to guarantee better living conditions for its citizens, but argued that such potential can only be realised through a fundamental shift in political and economic leadership.
By Maryam Aminu
As many Nigerians continue to grapple with rising living costs, growing insecurity and shrinking economic opportunities, the Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM) has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of failing to improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens three years after assuming office.
The group alleged that the country’s economic and security challenges have worsened under the current administration, leaving millions of Nigerians struggling with poverty, unemployment and uncertainty.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its Publicity Secretary, Salako Kayode, the organisation said the past three years had brought increasing hardship for many households across the country.
According to the group, soaring inflation has significantly reduced the purchasing power of citizens, making essential needs such as food, transportation, housing, electricity and healthcare increasingly difficult to afford.
The RSM argued that key economic decisions taken by the government, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the naira, have intensified economic pressure on working-class Nigerians while benefiting a small segment of the population.
The organisation maintained that many workers can no longer adequately support their families, while numerous small and medium-scale businesses are struggling to survive amid rising operational costs.
It also expressed concern over growing youth unemployment, increased educational expenses and what it described as worsening conditions in public institutions. The group further lamented the situation of pensioners and retirees, saying many have been left to endure severe economic hardship.
On the security situation, the movement said Nigerians continue to face threats from kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks in different parts of the country. It cited recent abduction incidents in Oyo State as evidence that citizens remain vulnerable despite repeated assurances from government authorities.
The group argued that the country’s challenges are rooted in long-standing economic and political policies pursued by successive administrations, alleging that both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have failed to prioritise the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
According to the RSM, the current administration has continued and intensified policies it described as unfavourable to the poor.
The organisation, however, urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite prevailing challenges, calling on workers, students, farmers and youths to become more actively involved in shaping the country’s political future.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the group called for greater political mobilisation and urged citizens to support alternatives it believes can address the nation’s economic and social challenges.
The RSM also endorsed the African Action Congress (AAC), describing the party as a platform committed to policies centred on job creation, quality education, healthcare delivery, security and social welfare.
It further called for grassroots mobilisation across workplaces, communities and educational institutions, insisting that meaningful change would require collective action and sustained civic engagement.
The statement concluded that Nigeria possesses sufficient human and natural resources to guarantee better living conditions for its citizens, but argued that such potential can only be realised through a fundamental shift in political and economic leadership.
ABUJA — As the Muslim Ummah celebrate this year’s Eid el-Kabir, the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), extends his warmest felicitations to all Muslim brothers and sisters across the nation and members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
According to Leah Katung-Babatunde SA Media to the Honourable Minister of Defence, the Minister notes that Eid el-Kabir symbolises supreme sacrifice, unalloyed faith, and total obedience to the divine will. He urges all Nigerians to imbibe these profound values, reflecting on how collective sacrifice and devotion can further strengthen the fabric of our national unity. “The peace and progress of our nation require a shared commitment,” General Musa stated. “In the spirit of this holy season, let us transcend our differences and join hands in keeping faith with the ideals of a strong, secure, and indivisible Nigeria.” The Honourable Minister uses this auspicious occasion to commend the bravery, resilience, and patriotism of the officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He praises their tireless efforts in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and battling criminality across various theatres of operation. “While we celebrate in the comfort of our homes, we must remember and pray for our gallant troops who remain on the frontlines to ensure our safety. The Ministry of Defence remains unyielding in its commitment to providing the necessary support, welfare, and equipment required to decisively defeat all threats to our national peace.” General Musa also calls on all citizens to remain vigilant, support the security agencies, and report any suspicious activities within their communities, emphasising that national security is a collective responsibility. He wishes the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and all Nigerians a peaceful and blessed celebration.
As Muslims across Nigeria join millions around the world to celebrate Eid El-Adha, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammed Bello Matawalle MON, has called on Nigerians to uphold the values of sacrifice, patience, unity and peaceful coexistence for the progress and stability of the country.
In his Eid El-Adha message to Muslim faithfuls and Nigerians, Matawalle said the festival serves as a reminder of devotion to Almighty Allah and the importance of national unity at a time the country continues to confront security challenges.
The Minister urged citizens to continue promoting peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, stressing that these virtues remain critical to strengthening national cohesion and advancing development.
“I extend my warm felicitations to Muslim faithfuls and all Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Eid El-Adha celebration,” he stated.
Matawalle assured Nigerians of his continued commitment, alongside the Armed Forces and other security agencies, to protecting the territorial integrity of the nation in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
He also paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and dedication in defending the country against security threats.
“I salute the courage and dedication of our troops who continue to make sacrifices in defence of our nation and its people,” he said.
The Minister further prayed for lasting peace, security and prosperity across the country as Nigerians celebrate the festive season.
Amid renewed security challenges confronting parts of the country, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) OFR, has called for sustained national support and prayers for troops engaged in the fight against insurgency, terrorism and banditry across Nigeria.
General Musa made the appeal on Tuesday while receiving the General Overseer of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
The Defence Minister stressed that military operations alone cannot completely address the country’s security concerns, noting that national unity, moral support and collaboration from religious bodies remain critical in boosting the morale of personnel deployed in various theatres of operation.
He said the Armed Forces of Nigeria remained resolute in defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting lives and property, despite the evolving nature of security threats across the country.
General Musa commended Pastor Muoka and members of the church for their continued prayers and support for the military and other security institutions, describing such gestures as vital to sustaining the fighting spirit of troops on the frontlines.
The minister further urged religious leaders across the country to continue preaching peace, patriotism and national cohesion, adding that faith-based organisations have a strategic role in promoting harmony and supporting national security efforts.
In his remarks, Pastor Muoka assured the Ministry of Defence of the church’s continued support for the Armed Forces and the Federal Government.
The cleric also offered prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, asking God to grant him wisdom, strength, good health and the capacity to steer the country towards peace, stability and economic prosperity.
Pastor Muoka equally prayed for divine protection and victory for troops combating insecurity, while expressing hope for lasting peace across all parts of the country.
The visit also featured an exchange of souvenirs, as both the Ministry of Defence and the Christian community reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration in advancing national peace, unity and security.
As the Federal Government intensifies efforts to strengthen fiscal discipline and improve accountability in public finance management, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has sought deeper collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Finance to drive ongoing reforms and address operational challenges confronting the agency.
Acting Chairman of the Commission, Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, made the appeal on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the FRC management team to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr. Raymond Omenka Omachi, FCA, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, Abana described the Permanent Secretary as a key figure in the history of the Commission, noting that Omachi was among the pioneer staff of the FRC and served as its first Head of Accounts.
The Acting Chairman said the decision to make the ministry their first official point of call since his assumption of office was informed by the Permanent Secretary’s longstanding relationship with the Commission and his institutional knowledge of its operations.
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Finance remains a critical stakeholder in the activities of the Commission and has continued to play a supportive role over the years.
Abana commended Omachi for the support previously extended to the Commission, particularly during the tenure of the immediate past Chairman of the FRC, Victor Muruako, Esq., while appealing for sustained cooperation.
He disclosed that the Commission recently concluded a management retreat where a strategic work plan aimed at aligning its operations with international best practices was developed.
The Acting Chairman also revealed plans by the Commission to organise a workshop on Fiscal Responsibility Index studies for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as part of efforts to deepen compliance with fiscal regulations.
On ongoing reforms, Abana said the Commission was working with the Federal Ministry of Justice to amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007 to strengthen enforcement mechanisms.
He noted that while the existing law contains several offences, many lack corresponding sanctions necessary for effective implementation.
According to him, discussions are equally ongoing with the National Assembly on fiscal rules and the process of gazetting them.
Abana also raised concerns over manpower shortages within the Commission, attributing the situation to the migration of staff to other government agencies offering better remuneration packages.
He stressed the need for recruitment, training and retraining of personnel to enable the Commission effectively discharge its mandate.
The Acting Chairman further lamented the Commission’s office accommodation challenges, describing the current arrangement as unhealthy and inadequate for efficient operations.
He said deputy directors currently share office spaces with junior officers and appealed for intervention to improve the working environment.
Responding, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Raymond Omenka Omachi, FCA, expressed delight over the visit and commended Barrister Abana’s leadership.
Omachi expressed confidence in Abana’s capacity, as one of the foundation members of the Commission, to reposition the FRC for greater national impact.
He noted that the Commission had continued to make significant contributions to fiscal discipline and accountability in the country, adding that the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 has remained instrumental in promoting prudent management of national resources.
The Permanent Secretary acknowledged the poor office conditions facing the Commission and advised the FRC to formally engage the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), which he described as the Commission’s supervisory authority, on the accommodation issue.
On the proposed amendment of the FRA 2007, Omachi assured the Commission of the ministry’s support, particularly during public hearings and stakeholder consultations.
He also pledged continued institutional backing for the Commission, stressing that its responsibilities require adequate funding and government support.
Omachi further urged staff members to support the leadership of Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana in advancing the Commission’s mandate and strengthening fiscal responsibility in the country.
As Nigeria continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and oil theft across several regions, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) says it has intensified coordinated military offensives nationwide, leading to the neutralisation of 317 terrorists and criminal elements in May 2026 alone.
The Defence Headquarters said troops also arrested 314 suspects, rescued 221 kidnapped civilians, recovered 93 weapons, dismantled illegal arms and oil bunkering networks, while compelling 18 terrorists to surrender during sustained operations across the country.
Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Tuesday during the monthly briefing on ongoing military operations, where he said the armed forces had sustained “unrelenting and comprehensive offensives” through coordinated land, air and maritime operations aimed at restoring peace and safeguarding national security.
Against the backdrop of growing security concerns in parts of the country, Onoja said troops remained under clear directives to dismantle terrorist enclaves, disrupt criminal logistics networks and deny armed groups freedom of operation.
According to him, military operations during the month produced “landmark achievements of considerable strategic significance,” including the destruction of terrorist camps, arrests of gunrunners and collaborators, seizure of stolen petroleum products and rescue of civilians held in captivity.
Giving a breakdown of operations in the North East under Operation HADIN KAI, the DDMO said troops sustained intense pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters across Borno, Yobe, Adamawa and Taraba States.
He disclosed that 73 insurgents were neutralised, 159 arrested and 112 kidnapped persons rescued within the period under review.
Onoja said troops repelled coordinated terrorist assaults in several locations, including Magumeri and Buni Gari, recovering anti-aircraft weapons, RPG launchers, machine guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition during fierce encounters.
He explained that troops also intercepted terrorist logistics convoys attempting to infiltrate Nigeria through border routes from Cameroon, recovering fuel supplies, medications, motorcycle parts and other items allegedly meant for insurgents.
The Defence spokesman further revealed that sustained clearance and rescue operations led to the liberation of several women and children abducted from Ngoshe community earlier in the ayear.
In one of the most dramatic rescue operations, he said troops mobilised a Quick Reaction Force after terrorists abducted commuters along the Buratai–Kamuya Road in Borno State, forcing the attackers to abandon eight vehicles and 92 captives during pursuit operations.
He added that troops also detected and safely detonated improvised explosive devices planted along strategic routes by fleeing insurgents.
On Operation FANSAN YAMMA in the North West, Onoja said troops intensified coordinated offensives against terrorists and bandits operating in Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara States.
According to him, 24 terrorists were neutralised, 13 suspects arrested and 22 kidnapped civilians rescued during operations in the region.
The DDMO stated that troops, supported by air assets including Super Tucano aircraft, successfully repelled attacks on military formations in Zamfara State and launched follow-up offensives that inflicted heavy casualties on armed groups.
He disclosed that troops rescued 32 abducted persons, including women and children, during a major offensive in Katsina State, while precision air strikes in Shinkafi destroyed terrorist hideouts.
Onoja also announced the arrest of a suspected major gunrunner linked to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, describing the development as a major breakthrough against arms trafficking networks fueling insecurity in the North West.
In the North Central region, the Defence Headquarters said troops under Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE and WHIRL STROKE recorded significant successes against kidnappers, illegal arms manufacturers and criminal syndicates operating across Kwara, Niger, Benue, Kogi, Plateau, Nasarawa and Taraba States.
The Defence spokesman said troops dismantled illegal arms production sites in Plateau State where fabricated AK-47 rifles and weapons-making equipment were recovered.
He added that several kidnappers, ammunition couriers, terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers were arrested during intelligence-driven operations across the region.
According to him, troops also intercepted large quantities of ammunition concealed in vehicles and food consignments allegedly being transported to criminal groups operating along the River Niger corridor.
In the South-South under Operation DELTA SAFE, Onoja said troops intensified the crackdown on kidnappers, oil thieves and economic saboteurs across Rivers, Delta, Edo, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.
He disclosed that troops destroyed illegal refining sites, intercepted stolen petroleum products and arrested several suspects linked to crude oil theft syndicates.
The DDMO revealed that troops uncovered heavily modified vehicles allegedly being used to transport stolen fuel near the Eleme Petrochemical Company in Rivers State, leading to the arrest of drivers and security personnel suspected of aiding the illegal operation.
On operations in the South East under Operation UDO KA, Onoja said troops sustained offensives against suspected IPOB/ESN elements and violent criminal groups across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi and Imo States.
He stated that 60 suspects were arrested, three terrorists neutralised and 18 kidnapped civilians rescued during operations in the region.
According to him, troops recovered illegal firearms, fake Biafran currency and arrested suspected gunrunners and illegal miners during raids conducted across several communities.
Beyond combat operations, the Defence Headquarters said the armed forces also intensified non-kinetic engagements aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and supporting vulnerable communities.
Onoja said the Nigerian Air Force conducted medical outreaches for residents and displaced persons in Maiduguri, while troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA donated 400 bags of fertiliser to farming communities in Zamfara State to support agricultural production ahead of the planting season.
Reacting to the recent kidnapping incident in Oyo State, the Defence spokesman said the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, had ordered immediate security reinforcements, aerial surveillance and coordinated operations to track down the perpetrators.
He assured Nigerians that troops would sustain offensive operations across all theatres until criminal networks threatening national security were completely dismantled.
Onoja also conveyed the condolences of the military high command to families of personnel who lost their lives during operations, while commending troops for what he described as their “extraordinary gallantry, tactical ingenuity and unwavering professionalism” in the defence of the country.
Africa Security Investigation News 