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President Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Future for Nigeria’s Defence Industry at DICON’s 60th Anniversary

Maryam Aminu

As Nigeria celebrates DICON’s 60 years of service, the vision laid out today sets the stage for a future where the country’s defence industry plays a pivotal role in both national security and economic development.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to national security and technological advancement by unveiling a comprehensive strategy for Nigeria’s defence sector.

This announcement was made during the 60th-anniversary celebration of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference, held today in Abuja.

In his keynote address, President Tinubu who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume
hailed DICON’s six-decade legacy of resilience and innovation.

Established in 1964, DICON has grown into a cornerstone of Nigeria’s military-industrial complex, producing essential ammunition and equipment for the country’s armed forces.

The President emphasized that DICON’s contributions during the Nigerian Civil War were pivotal in maintaining the nation’s unity, underscoring the corporation’s critical role in Nigeria’s defence history.

Tinubu further announced the signing of the DICON Act 2023, which he described as a milestone that creates the right environment for the corporation to modernize and expand its production capabilities.

“The newly automated production lines for various categories of ammunition, Mine Resistant Ambush Patrol Vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carrier, drones, and unmanned ground vehicles, for instance, will provide our armed forces with advanced equipment tailored to our contemporary challenges providing our troops with the required advantage over our adversaries.” Said Tinubu

He expressed that Introducing the BAT A-1 Specialised Assault Rifle and its production line will address small arms proliferation issues while equipping our security operatives with modern fighting capabilities.

“The proposed state-of-the-art micro motherboard processing facility will be the backbone of robotics and artificial intelligence innovations, leveraging resources from our newly inaugurated lithium development plant in Nasarawa State.

“Expanding our production capabilities and enhancing our research and development efforts will create jobs, develop human capital, and stimulate economic growth.

“Establishing a tech hub and R&D lab in Abuja will provide the enabling environment and attract young talent to foster a culture of Innovation, driving Nigeria’s defence industry forward”.

“We are on course to leap forward in Nigeria’s defence capabilities. These developments would bolster the nation’s efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges.” He said

The event also marked the launch of DICON’s Vision and Strategy Road Map 2030, which aligns with the President’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” This strategic plan is designed to position DICON as a leader in defence innovation across Africa, driving economic diversification through industrialization, digitization, and manufacturing.

The roadmap sets clear objectives to enhance national security and promote sustainable development.

Speaking earlier, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle who delivered the opening remarks, lauded the DICON Act 2023 as a transformative legal framework that empowers the corporation to operate with greater autonomy and efficiency.

Matawalle also introduced the Defence Innovation Challenge, an initiative aimed at harnessing the talents of young Nigerians to advance national and regional security through innovative defence technologies.

The minister noted that over the past 60 years, DICON has made significant contributions to our nation’s defence architecture, providing the Nigerian Armed Forces with essential equipment and supporting the development of the military capabilities.

He expressed with delight the immense pride in this legacy of resilience and innovation.

Reacting to the recent enactment of the DICON Act 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle said it marks a turning point in the history of ths defence sector.

“This new legal framework empowers DICON to operate with greater autonomy and efficiency, enhancing its ability to meet the evolving defence needs of our nation.

“However, as we stand on the threshold of a new era, it is clear that the future holds even greater opportunities for growth and transformation of indigenous production in Nigeria.”

Speaking also, the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa said DICON has played their part in safeguarding the nation’s security and sovereignty.

“Today, we celebrate its achievements and look ahead to a future filled with even greater promise and potential,” the CDS said.

“As African nations continue to confront threats to peace and stability, it is essential that we work together to enhance our defence capabilities and foster regional cooperation.he noted.

”As we reflect on the security challenges grappling our respective nations today, there is a growing imperative to fully develop our indigenous production capacities, and strengthen our military industrial complex”he said.

In his address, the Director-General of DICON, Major General Aniedi Edet commended President Tinubu for the supportive roles being extended to the Corporation since assumption of office

Edet highlighted the corporation’s evolution from its early focus on small arms and ammunition production to its current diverse portfolio, which now includes ventures into civilian applications.

He expressed optimism about the future, citing the strategic partnerships and innovations that will drive DICON’s growth.

“DICON at 60 is more than a celebration; it is a call to action,” the Director-General said, urging stakeholders to collaborate in building a self-reliant defence sector.

Reacting to the theme of the conference “Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology”, the Director General said it challenges us to reflect on our collective journey, to innovate, and to strengthen the ties that bind us in our common pursuit of building a DICON that will guarantee self-sufficiency in the equipment needs of our Armed Forces, and other security agencies in Nigeria,”

Edet assured that the corporation would live up to expectations of the Federal government

RMAFC Clarifies Legislators’ Pay Amidst Ongoing Debate

Maryam AminuThe Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has addressed the ongoing controversy regarding the salaries and allowances of Members of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has addressed the ongoing controversy regarding the salaries and allowances of Members of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

This clarification comes in response to recent public discourse fueled by statements from elder statesmen, public affairs commentators, civil society organizations, and the media.

The issue gained renewed attention following comments made by former Senator Shehu Sani, who claimed that each Senator receives a monthly running cost of N13.5 million, in addition to a monthly salary of N750,000 as prescribed by the Commission.

RMAFC clarified that it does not have the constitutional authority to enforce compliance with the proper implementation of the remuneration package for legislators.

However, this issue is currently being addressed by the National Assembly.

A detailed breakdown provided by the Commission shows that each Senator is entitled to a monthly salary and allowances totaling N1,063,860. This sum includes a basic salary of N168,866.70, motor vehicle fuelling and maintenance allowance of N126,650, personal assistant allowance of N42,216.66, domestic staff allowance of N126,650, entertainment allowance of N50,660, utilities allowance of N50,660, newspaper/periodicals allowance of N25,330, wardrobe allowance of N42,216.66, house maintenance allowance of N8,443.33, and a constituency allowance of N422,166.66.

RMAFC further explained that while some allowances are paid regularly with the basic salary, others are non-regular and are paid as due. Notably, the furniture allowance of N6,079,200 and severance gratuity of N6,079,200 are paid once every tenure, while the vehicle allowance of N8,105,600 is an optional loan that must be repaid before leaving office.

The Commission emphasized that, unlike in the past, most political and legislative officers, except for key figures such as the President, Vice President, Senate President, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, are no longer provided with housing.

RMAFC also urged the public to critically assess any claims regarding allowances beyond those stipulated in the Remuneration (Amendment) Act, 2008, and advised that any such allegations should be substantiated by those making them.

To prevent the spread of misinformation, the Commission encourages Nigerians and interested parties to review the current remuneration package details for political, public, and judicial office holders, available on its official website: http://www.rmafc.gov.ng

CISLAC Commends ICPC for Investigating Alleged ₦90 Billion Fraud in Hajj Subsidies

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has praised the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for launching an investigation into the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over allegations of misappropriating ₦90 billion in Hajj subsidies.

In a recent statement, the ICPC revealed that several NAHCON officials were arrested on Wednesday after they failed to respond to an invitation from the anti-graft agency.

The spokesperson for the ICPC, Demola Bakare, clarified the situation, saying, “We are investigating officials of the National Hajj Commission because they either failed or refused to honour the invitation. We, therefore, paid them a friendly visit.”

CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, expressed deep concern over reports of widespread misappropriation of funds during this year’s Hajj.

Rafsanjani emphasized that many pilgrims received substandard services despite the significant government subsidies allocated for their welfare.

“We commend the ICPC’s efforts to expose this monumental fraud and urge them to ensure that corruption is rooted out of our public institutions,” Rafsanjani stated.

As the head of Transparency International Nigeria (TI-Nigeria), Rafsanjani highlighted the pervasive impact of corruption on the nation’s socio-economic well-being.

He noted that persistent fraud and institutional failures have played a significant role in the deepening poverty crisis in Nigeria.

“The level of fraud and disregard for institutional integrity have plunged millions of Nigerians into abject poverty while a few individuals amass wealth at the expense of the general populace,” he lamented.

He referenced recent statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which indicate that over 133 million Nigerians are currently living in multidimensional poverty.

He further argued that the diversion of public funds meant for the welfare of citizens has only worsened the nation’s socio-economic challenges.

CISLAC Boss called on the ICPC to continue its efforts to eradicate corruption from public institutions, pointing to Nigeria’s low ranking on the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index as a clear indicator of the urgent need for reform.

As the investigation unfolds, CISLAC reiterated its stance against corruption, urging for immediate reforms to restore integrity within public institutions.

Minister of Defence Commends Ogun State Governor for Land Donation to Nigerian Navy

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Adedapo Abiodun, for his significant contribution to national security through the donation of 100,000 hectares of land to the Nigerian Navy.

The land, located within the Olokola Free Trade Zone along the Bight of Benin, is set to become a Forward Operating Base (FOB) for the Navy, enhancing its operational presence and capabilities in the region.

The Director, Information and Public Relations for the Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, in a statement signed and made available to journalists on Tuesday, said Dr. Matawalle praised the Governor’s commitment to bolstering the nation’s security, highlighting that such support from state governments is crucial in the collective effort to safeguard the country.

“This donation is a testament to Governor Abiodun’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Armed Forces. It reflects a profound dedication to the security and development of Nigeria, particularly in the South-West region,” Dr. Matawalle stated.

The Minister also called on other state governments to follow Ogun State’s example by collaborating with and supporting the Armed Forces in their efforts to combat insecurity nationwide.

Dr. Matawalle reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to partnering with state governments and other stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of the Armed Forces in maintaining peace and security across Nigeria.

The Minister’s remarks underscore the importance of state-level contributions to national defense, emphasizing that such partnerships are vital for ensuring a safe and secure environment for all Nigerians.

PFAN President Tijani Babangida Appeals for Unity Among Nigerian Players’ Union, Expresses Gratitude to Roda JC Alumni

Maryam Aminu

Former Super Eagles winger and current President of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), Tijani Babangida, has called on former footballers in Nigeria to set aside their differences and unite.

Babangida emphasized that only through collective effort can they achieve their goals and aspirations.

His appeal came in the wake of a personal tragedy. The PFAN President was recently involved in a horrific car accident that claimed the lives of his younger brother, Ibrahim, and his son, Fadeel. His wife, who was also injured in the accident, is currently recovering in an European hospital, thanks to the efforts of former players from Roda JC, a Dutch football club where Babangida once played.

In a gesture of solidarity, these former Roda JC players not only facilitated his wife’s treatment but also hosted a “Get Well” dinner for Babangida.

During the dinner, they reaffirmed their commitment to supporting him and his family until they fully recover.

Babangida, who is affectionately known as “TJ” by his admirers, praised the unity among the former Roda JC players, stating that such solidarity is what should be expected from players’ unions.

“This is what players must do; players must be there for each other during and after football because they have become one family,” Babangida said, reflecting on the supportive spirit he experienced.

He further expressed his hope to see a similar spirit of generosity and support among Nigerian footballers, both current and former.

“We cannot wait for outsiders to support and assist us all the time. We must put programs in place to support ourselves, just as it is done in Europe and other advanced countries. Each generation of players must watch out for themselves and establish programs they can rely on.”

Babangida also warned against infighting within the players’ union, stating, “We will gain nothing by fighting ourselves; we can only gain if we come together to support each other. This is my prayer, and this is what I will pursue when I return to Nigeria.”

Babangida further expressed deep gratitude to the former players of Roda JC, saying, “Words are not enough to express how grateful I am. I am seriously overwhelmed and grateful.”

Babangida’s call for unity comes at a crucial time, as the PFAN seeks to strengthen its ranks and better serve the needs of Nigerian footballers both on and off the pitch.

PFAN president, Tijani Babangida thanks Roda JC former players, begs Nigeria players Union to unite

Former Nigeria Super Eagles winger, Tijani Babangida has urged former footballers in Nigeria to put aside their differences and work together noting that it is only through that they can achieve their goals and aspirations.

The PFAN president who was recently in the news when he was involved in a ghastly motor accident which resulted in the death of his younger brother Ibrahim and his son Fadeel, and his wife still recovering in a European hospital courtesy the efforts of the former Players of Roda JC of Holland noted that it was only possible because of the unity among the former players.

And as a way to make him more relaxed and take his mind away from the accident, the former players also hosted him to a GET WELL DINNER. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring total support for Tijani Babangida and wife until full recovery.

TJ as he is most called by his admirers stressed that this is what is expected of players Union rather than fighting for what does not matter at all. In their own words; “this is what players must do, players must be there for each other during and after football because they have become one family as a result’.

Tijani Babangida who was filled with gratitude noted that his desire is to see such a generous and supportive spirit among Nigeria players both current and former players.

“We cannot wait for outsiders to support and assist us all the time. We must put programs in place to support ourselves just as it is here in Europe and other advanced countries. Each generation of players must watch out for themselves, put programs in place that they can easily fall back to.

“We will gain nothing fighting ourselves, we can only gain if we come together to support ourselves. This is my prayer and this is what I will pursue when I return to Nigeria,”

Tijani Babangida stated that words are not enough to express how grateful he is to the former players of Roda JC of Holland. “I am seriously overwhelmed and grateful,” he concluded.

FG Partners with NITDA to Train Over 30 Million Youth in Digital Literacy

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing digital literacy training to over 30 million Nigerian youth.

This major announcement was made by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, during an interview in Abuja in celebration of International Youth Day.

Represented by Prince Momoh Olugbenga, the Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion, Dr. Ibrahim highlighted the importance of equipping young Nigerians with essential digital skills to thrive in the global digital economy.

She emphasized that this initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering the youth with the knowledge and tools needed to fully participate in the digital landscape.

The Minister also noted that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has introduced a volunteer community known as Digital Onboarders, through an ongoing partnership with Mind The Gap Nigeria. This community is dedicated to enhancing youth productivity by developing their digital skills.

“President Bola Tinubu is keenly aware of the growing importance of the digital economy, he has dedicated a Ministry to coordinate efforts in this area. Our Ministry has been actively seeking partnerships and opportunities to connect as many youth as possible to the learning experiences that will equip them for success in the digital economy.” She said

Dr. Ibrahim also addressed the challenge of youth unemployment, noting that an estimated 75% of job seekers would have better chances of securing employment in the evolving Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.

However, she pointed out that MSMEs are facing a decline in survival rates due to a lack of relevant skills to leverage the emerging opportunities in the digital economy.

To address this, the Ministry has launched the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a platform designed to equip young people with the skills necessary to participate actively in salvaging businesses and tapping into the opportunities within the country’s Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO) market.

The theme of this year’s International Youth Day is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”

CDS General Chris Musa Praised for Innovative Public Information Management Amid Hunger Protests

Emmanuel Daudu

In the wake of Nigeria’s ongoing challenges, marked by unsettling events that have disrupted daily life, the country’s military and security agencies have been lauded for their exemplary performance in maintaining peace and safety.

Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Chris Musa has been particularly praised for his innovative approach to public information management, which has played a critical role in addressing the recent hunger protests.

The Defence Support Advocacy Project, led by Hon. (Elder) Ayodele Thomas, commended General Musa’s introduction of the “High Profile Public Information Processing and Management Thrust,” a new initiative aimed at enhancing transparency and direct communication with the public.

Through regular media briefings by security agency heads and service chiefs at the Defense Headquarters, Nigerians are kept informed of ongoing efforts to restore normalcy, thereby fostering a stronger sense of security and trust in the nation’s armed forces.

The protests, which have been linked to various internal and external factors, were handled with professionalism by the military and security forces. Their efforts in identifying the protests’ sponsors and uncovering underlying motives have been recognized as crucial to maintaining national stability. This has renewed public confidence in the armed forces, with many citizens now fully supporting the military and security agencies under General Musa’s leadership.

In a statement, the Defence Support Advocacy Project also extended special appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to upholding citizens’ constitutional rights, including the right to protest.

The organization acknowledged the President’s wise choice in appointing General Chris Musa as the CDS during this critical period, highlighting his dedication to democracy, rule of law, and national unity.

The statement called on all Nigerians, particularly the youth, to support President Tinubu and his security chiefs in their efforts to protect lives and property and to work together towards a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Elder Thomas also emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and urged all sectors of society to collaborate with General Musa and his team through strategic consultations, meetings, and discussions to strengthen national unity and resilience.

The Defence Support Advocacy Project appealed to the organizers of the hunger protests to present their demands in a peaceful and orderly manner.

The organization warned that remaining faceless could lead to misunderstandings and hinder conflict resolution efforts.

Hon. (Elder) Ayodele Thomas expressed his gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, the service chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service for their professional leadership during this challenging time.

FRSC says over 189,256 drivers licences awaiting collection nationwide

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has responded to a media publication regarding the delay in issuing National Driver’s Licences across the country.

Olusegun Ogungbemide, Corps Public Education and Strategic Communication Officer (CPESCO), said this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

Ogungbemide, who applauded the media platform for its watchdog role, said it was pertinent to correct some of the misconceptions conveyed in the publication.

This, he said, was to avert misleading the general public on what had actually hampered the smooth production of the National Driver’s Licence.

“The attention of the FRSC has been adequately drawn to an article published by The Sun Newspaper today, 11 August.

“To state the obvious fact and correct the misinformation stated in the above-quoted article, it is pertinent to say that at no time did the FRSC blame anyone in the tripartite regarding the driver’s licence issue.

“This is because the Corps does not believe in apportioning blame, but is keenly interested in getting the system to work for quality service delivery and customer satisfaction,” he said.

Ogungbemide said the entire processes surrounding the production of the national driver’s licence were delicate.

This, he said, was due to the intelligence and data-gathering ability of the scheme, adding that the Corps had to subject the entire system to a comprehensive overhaul.

He said, however, the efforts needed time to be brought to perfection.

“On assumption of office in May 2024, one of the priority areas the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, committed his administrative energy to, was the total revamp of the national driver’s licence production.

To nip the problem in the bud, he visited the production plant to have an on-the-spot assessment of the issues militating against the smooth flow of production.

“Aftermath of that visit revived the system and brought the plant up to speed.”

He said that the identified issues were decisively dealt with, fixed and production resumed in full force, pursuant to his directive for the plant to commence 24-hour production.

“Due to that intervention, the Corps can categorically state that every issue affecting the smooth running of the plant is being resolved.

“As at today, over 189,256 licences have been produced and are awaiting collection at various State Boards of Internal Revenue across the country,” he said.

Ogungbemide quoted the FRSC Corps Marshal as reassuring that, in line with his policy thrust, the integrity of the licence process would be upheld at all times to sustain international acceptability.

He admonished applicants awaiting their licences to proceed to their respective states for collection as the Corps continue its quest to clear the backlog.

Senator J.O.Es Mea Culpa: A Promise for Redemption

By Oru Leonard

As the curtain fell on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Nigeria’s Sports Development Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, stood before the nation with a heavy heart. The country’s performance, he acknowledged, had fallen woefully short of expectations.

With a deep sense of responsibility, Nigeria’s Sports Development Minister Senator John Owan Enoh (JOE), apologised to Nigerians, his voice laced with regret. “We should have done better,” he conceded. “Our objectives, hopes, and dreams were left unfulfilled.”

But amidst the disappointment, the Minister refused to shy away from the challenges that lay ahead. He reflected on the daunting task he faced when assuming office in August 2023 – four international competitions, including the Olympics, in a matter of months.

Preparations for the Games, he revealed, had not begun when he took the helm. Undeterred, Senator Enoh rallied his team, and together, they worked tirelessly to make up for lost time.

Recall that in line with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda made Sports Development a stand alone ministry in recognition there recognising sports a sector that should be considered in the scheme of national consideration for economic gains for the country. The President is few months above one and his Minister’s are just one year in office.

Though the Olympic dreams remained elusive, the Minister’s eyes were fixed on the future. The Paralympic Games, scheduled for August 28 to September 8, offered a chance for redemption.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Senator Enoh vowed to learn from the mistakes of the past. “We will regroup, recharge, and come back stronger,” he promised. The journey to redemption had begun, and Nigerians, though disappointed, held onto hope.

END

Oru Leonard Oru (frpa, mnim), is the CEO of Oru Media & Associates, Media, Advertising and Business Development Practitioner.

Oru Media & Associates are the publishers of News News Dot Africa online Newspapers