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Matawalle visits Vice President calls for support to the Tinubu administration

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, paid a courtesy visit to Vice President, H.E. Kashim Shettima GCON at the Presidential Villa.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations) on Friday, they had convivial discussion on the way forward for Nigeria and the need to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his bold decisions , progressive actions and tremendous achievements recorded so far in the North and Nigeria as a whole.

Their discussion also focused on the need for the North to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President for the developmental benefits of the North.

Accordingly, he Minister restated his commitment in supporting and defending the government’s policies and programs, rather than criticizing . He stressed the need for constructive dialogue and suggestions for improvement, and reminded all appointees of their responsibilities to promote the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on addressing security, economic, and social challenges.

He said that as the Minister of State for Defence, he is playing a crucial role in actualizing President Tinubu’s security mandate through various efforts, including – Strategic Policy Development, Counter-Terrorism Initiative,- Capacity Building, Community Engagement and Regional Security Cooperation amongst others.

Furthermore, he said that by taking these steps, he is contributing to a safer, more secure Nigeria, adding that it is a call for unity and support among political appointees for the successful implementation of the President’s policies and programs.

Vice President commended the Minister for his unwavering support and loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and urged all other appointees to emulate this spirit of unity and teamwork.

He stated: “As we work together to address the challenges facing our nation, it is heartening to see our appointees standing firmly behind the President, providing valuable contributions and expertise to drive progress and development.” He emphasized the importance of unshakeable commitment to the President’s vision and policies, and encouraged all appointees to promote and implement these policies for the betterment of Nigeria.

Badaru Receives NAWOJ Officials as they commend FG’s efforts in security

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E Mohammad Badaru Abubakar CON, mni has reassured the National Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ) of continuous efforts of Government to ensure that Nigeria remain a peaceful sovereign state where business and daily life can strive without fear.

Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director Information and Public Relations in a press release he signed today disclosed that the Minister made this statement when he received the Executive Members of the Association who paid him a courtesy call in his office at Ship House , Abuja .The delegation was led by the Chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim.

The Minister commended their reportage on security issues geared towards bringing a lasting peace to the country.

He expressed his gratitude to NAWOJ for their tireless efforts in reporting and covering security issues in Nigeria. He acknowledged the crucial role of women journalists in promoting national security, emphasising that security requires a collective approach from all segments of the society like professional bodies, faith based organisations and patriotic citizens must all put hands on deck to fight insecurity.

Badaru noted that the insurgency in the northeast has drastically decreased, allowing for peaceful celebration of Sallah in the northeast, especially Borno State. He attributed this success to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to providing full security in the region and across Nigeria.

The Minister pledged to partner with NAWOJ, describing the Association as a veritable instrument for sensitising women on how to deradicalise their children and urged them to contribute their quota to national peace and security sustainability .

The NAWOJ chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim commended the appointment of Badaru as minister of defence and appreciated the government efforts in fighting insecurity.

According to her, insurgents have been significantly weakened and their atrocities have decreased substantially.

In addition she said , the success of the last Sallah celebration which was observed in Biu and other parts of the northeast, marks a great improvement from previous years. For her, celebrating the last Salah without any security breach in

Borno State is a testament to the effectiveness of government security measures.

Defence Ministry To Collaborate With Uni-Abuja In Research, Development Of Defence Hardwares-Badaru

… For any meaningful development, there must be research

By Zipporah Ayuba

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has charged the University of Abuja to partner with the Ministry of Defence through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in the local production of defence equipment.

According to the press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations) on 2nd May, 2024, the Minister stated this when the Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah paid him a courtesy visit in Ship House, Abuja.

The Minister noted that the University being a center for research, can partner favourably with DICON in the production of Military weapons; drones, guns and other hardwares we need in the country.

The Minister opined that UNI-Abuja is a research driven University that offers various Engineering Courses and that it will be beneficial if it partners with DICON in local production of defence equipment.

He said: “For any useful development, there must be research.”

Badaru appreciated the V.C for the visit and said that the Ministry will do everything necessary to see that the collaborative efforts of both institutions will boost Nigeria’s desire to produce defence equipment locally.

He explained to his guest that the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is a Military industry that is charged with the production of all military equipment and hardwares in Nigeria.

Earlier, in his response the Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah said that the purpose of their visit was to interact with the Minister on possible levels of collaboration in terms of ideas sharing and research.

He said that the University is well positioned in terms of research capabilities to support good ideas that will enhance the security of the nation.

CDS Advocates Support For Victims Of Terrorism, Says Care For Victims Is Godly

By Zipporah Ayuba

The Chief of Defence Staff ( CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has described the act of caring for victims of terrorism as Godly. He stated this today, 26 April 2024 while on courtesy visit to the Abuja office of the Nigeria Foundation for the Support of Terrorism. According to him, too much concentration is given to the perpetrators of terrorism without recourse to the victims.

According to the press release signed by Tukur Gusau, Brigadier General Acting Director Defence Information, on 26 April 2024, General Musa said the victims suffers psychological tortures and need support to overcome these challenges. He added that “we are all victims, either directly or indirectly, while maintaining that the country was peaceful before it degenerated to its present state”.

The CDS pledges the Armed Forces of Nigeria resolve to “keep pushing and driving hard despite all odds until peace is restore in the nation”.

The Chairman of the foundation, Lieutenant General Theuphilous Danjuma retired, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Air Vice Marshal Shittu Alao retired said the CDS’s visit was unprecedented. According to him, the foundation was established ten years ago with funding from Government and individuals to provide soccour to the victims of terrorism. He added that the foundation was initially set up to service victims from Borno State, but has since been expanded to other geopolitical zones.

The executive Secretary of the foundation, Professor Nana Tanko who eulogies the openness of the CDS also applaud his leadership strategies applied to fighting terrorism. She further assured of her undoubted believe in General Musa ability to forge the AFN towards the right direction.

In another development, General Musa kicked opened the Unity Schools Old Students Association ( USOSA) golf Carnival at the IBB Golf Club, Asokoro, Abuja earlier in the Morning today. He said Unity Schools were the pride of the nation. The Defence chief added that there is the need for all Nigerians to work tirelessly to salvage Nigeria as he maintained that the Armed Forces cannot do it all alone.

Further more, the President of USOSA, Dr Mike Magaji in his remarks said this is the first time ever the Association is organising a golf carnival to enhance the already existing unity amongst old students. He added that “members are putting foot print into the national discourse”. Also, he challenged members to rise above board to maintain the spirit behind the formation of unity schools. Prominent Nigerians like General Christ Musa, Captain Idris Wada and host of others are members of the association.

Transport Minister Flags-Off 62KM Port-Harcourt – Aba Train Service For Commercial Use

…Train Service to Commence 1st May, 2024 as Alkali Declares 4-day Free Train Ride.

By Zipporah Ayuba

The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali has officially flagged off the 62km Port-Harcourt to Aba rail service.

According to the press release signed by
Muhammad Tahir Zakari MFR
Director, Press & Public Relations on 30th April, 2024, flagging-off the commencement of the rail service in Port-Harcourt earlier today, the Minister noted that transportation is amongst the eight key priority areas of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration hence his prioritization of the eastern rail corridor project upon assumption of office.

“We are here in Port-Harcourt to commission the train service for Port-Harcourt to Aba. I also want to thank the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and commitment to the Ministry of Transportation and his continuous desire to bring succour to the great people of this nation”.

To encourage and drive the usage of the train service, the Minister declared a 4-day free train ride from 1st May, 2024 to 4th May, 2024 with commercial services expected to kick start on Tuesday, 7th May, 2024.

The Minister noted that the completion of this project is vital to the socio-economic progression of the country. This is even as he disclosed that the Port-Harcourt to Maiduguri rehabilitation and reconstruction rail project cuts across the 5 geo-political zones of South-South, South-East, North-Central and the North-West.

In cognizance of current economic realities, the Minister assured that the Ministry is currently assessing a proposition on the retrofitting from diesel-powered locomotives to Liquefied Natural Gas by an investor. He assured that bringing this to reality will facilitate re-evaluation of current train tickets across the train service corridors.

Speaking also at the flag-off, the Managing Director, Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Engr. Fidet Okhiria, during a media chat, disclosed that the locomotives and coaches used for the flag-off are refurbished ones. He, however assured that the contractor Messrs China Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CCECC) is expected to deliver soon 50 narrow gauge locomotives and 100 narrow gauge coaches to be deployed along existing train corridors in the country.

He encouraged the public of NRC’s commitment to offer better services, adding that containers can also be transported via this channel from Port-Harcourt to Aba.

The Minister along with the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transportation (FMT), Oloruntola Olufemi, Director, Rail Transport Services, FMT, Zirra Finbar, Director, Legal Services, FMT, Pius Oteh, Managing Director, NRC, Engr. Fidet Okhiria, together with traditional rulers, embarked on an assessment and a short ride on the commissioned train service from Port-Harcourt to Aba.

Online Editors Gets CAC’s Certificate of Registration

…Body to Announce Investiture Programme to Mark Second Anniversary

The Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE), has officially been registered as a corporate entity by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with the registration number: 7441687.

Disclosing this in a press release E-signed by Martins Odiete (Acting Chairman) and Shola Akingboye (Acting Secretary), disclosed that As a professional body of news editors who publish online newspapers in Nigeria, the registration is a huge milestone for ACOE in line with its mission to strengthen ethical journalism as a prerequisite tool for online media practitioners; to uphold the tenets of the profession, promote corporate values and the welfare of its members, and to maintain associations’ set standard in line with global best practices.

As the association approaches its second anniversary with members across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT at its headquarters, ACOE will be announcing a line of exciting programs to mark its two years of existence and unveil its corporate identity in the days ahead. Stay tuned for more updates and join ACOE in promoting ethical journalism and professional standards in the online media space.

Corporate Actions On Climate Change: UNESCO Laureate Commends UN Global Compact On Invitation

UNESCO laureate, Vice-Chancellor, Crown University, USA, Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu, has Commended the Leadership of United Nations Global Compact on invitation to proffer solutions to the barriers, challenges to provide opportunities towards advancing a just transition and share best practices and actionable solutions for companies for sustainable global economies and societies, live and virtual event scheduled to take place in the morning by 9:30am this month, May 9, 2024 as co-hostex by United Nations Global Compact and International Labour Organization (ILO).

In a statement by VC CUICI, USA today being on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 which was made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State capital by UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistant On Media, Publicity and Communication Matters, Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu tasks United Nations Global Compact on the benefits of a just transition of companies, corporate actions towards the promotion of good impacts on climate change, or global environmentally sustainable economies.

According to UNESCO Laureate, United Nations Global Compact set out objectives are to ensure that companies align their strategies operations with the universal principles as related to environmentally sustainable economies such as in labour, environment and others to maintain fairness and inclusiveness for everyone.

He added that, United Nations Global Compact is a non-binding United Nations pact to get businesses and firms worldwide adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies and report on their implementations. This, to ensure that no one is left behind or pushed behind in the transition to low- carbon and environmentally sustainable economies and societies. He said: The essence of the insightful program which UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu was invited to hear from other experts, Speakers at the event to be held on May 9, 2024 to explore on the ways companies can advance a just transition by taking concrete actions to address the social impact of climate change, especially to workers, unions, communities and suppliers”.

CUICI VC while expressing optimism over the development on his invitation as he hope for success of the event às co-hosted by United Nations Global Compact and International Labour Organization (ILO) UNESCO Laureate then urged groups, stakeholders to explore the benefits of a just transition to ensure global environmentally sustainable economies. Reacting further, Aremu stated: “As one of the stakeholders invited to on this a just transition of Companies to address the social impacts of climate change mitigation and adaptation in partnership with other actors such as workers, unions, communities and suppliers, I must commend your invitation and initiative towards the attainment of Agenda 2030″.

“I commend the following industry experts, Speakers as invited: Fernando Castellanos, Head, Environment & Climate, UN Global Compact, Rie Vejs Kjeidgaard, Director of the Department of partnerships Field Support, International Labour Organization (ILO), Nikki Gwilliam Beeharee, Investor Engagement Strategic Lead, World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA), Gustarf Renman, Research Specialist On Just Transition, World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA), Robert Warinkovic, Adviser for Climate & Just Transition, International Organization of Employers (IOE), Donatella Izzo, Head Human Rights Sustainability, Enel, Ankit Todi, Lead, Group Sustainability Strategy & Partnerships, Mahindra Group as invited to speak to build on the introduction to Just Transition Foundational Academy course.

” It will feature concrete examples from companies across different sectors shedding light on their strategies to planning and contributing to a just transition. Companies will highlight opportunities, challenges and barriers to advancing a just transition, and share best practices and actionable solutions, as part of their commitment to Forward Faster. Experts will also address relevant developments in the areas of policy and finance”.

“Participants will have an opportunity to engage with the speakers, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and knowledge. By the end of the session, participants will walk away with actionable steps to: -Develop a clear understanding of what a just transition entails in practice. -Identify opportunities for collaboration with stakeholders to drive meaningful change. -Implement practical strategies for integrating just transition into corporate decision-making and policies”.

INSECURITY: Matawalle Harps On Intelligence Sharing With USA

By ZY Job

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has harped on more intelligence sharing between Nigeria and the United States of America in order to fight banditry and terrorism in Nigeria.

According to the press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations) on 1st May, 2024, the Minister opined this when he hosted the Assistant Secretary for Defence for African Affairs at the US
Department of Defence, Jennifer Zakriski and her team at Ship House.

The Minister listed out areas of possible collaborations to include intelligence sharing aimed at bolstering the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.

Matawalle noted that the information and intelligence the US uses in sending early warning to her citizens in crises countries, can be shared with Nigeria, warning us of impending attack by terrorists.

The meeting which witnessed robust and in-depth discussions on intelligence sharing, will foster renewed commitment in strengthening the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and the United States in defence and security cooperation.

He said: “It is indeed a privilege to welcome you and your team to Nigeria. Our discussion today underscores the importance of collaboration and intelligence sharing in tackling common security challenges. Nigeria values its partnership with the United States, and we are committed to enhancing our cooperation in defence matters for the mutual benefit of our nations.”

In her remarks, Jennifer Zakriski expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria in addressing security concerns.

She stated, “Nigeria is a key partner for the United States in Africa, and our collaboration is vital in addressing shared security threats. Today’s meeting marks another milestone in our efforts to strengthen defense ties and enhance regional security.”

Defence Ministers Meet With African Union Peace And Security Council

… Discuss Cooperation on Counter-terrorism

By Zipporah Ayuba

The Honourable Ministers of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, and H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, had audience with Ambassadors from the African Union Peace and Security Council led by the Ambassador of Gambia to the African Union and H.E Jainaba Jagne ,the Chairperson of AU Peace and Security Council for the month of April, 2024 at Ship House, Abuja.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations ) on Friday, 26th April, 2024, the Minister reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to regional security cooperation, stating that: “Nigeria will contribute to the proposed African Standby Force and that we are open to all possible collaborations with the African Union to ensure the security of Africa.”

Speaking on the just concluded Counter-terrorism Summit, Badaru said that Nigeria will abide with the resolution reached that would enhance the regional fight against terrorism and other criminalities.

He said: “Though it is still on paper, but I believe all council members are enthusiastic about the deliberation and on our part, we will work hard to contribute our best to see that our partnership on conflict resolution works.”

On her part, Her Excellency Jainaba Jagne commended the Nigerian Government for the hospitality and commitment to advancing the goals of the African Union. She said: “Today’s meeting underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing the common threats facing our continent. Nigeria’s leadership in this regard is commendable, and we look forward to continued collaboration towards a safer and more secure Africa.”

The meeting witnessed robust discussions on conflict resolution aimed at fostering closer collaboration among African nations in the fight against terrorism.
The discussions are expected to inform future initiatives aimed at strengthening regional security mechanisms and enhancing the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts across Africa.

It Is Time We Come Together To Fight Terrorism And Other Crimes – Badaru

By Zipporah Ayuba

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H. E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni has called on all African member states to come together and fight terrorism by preventing cross border influx of illegal arms in the continent.

According to the press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations) on Wednesday, 24th April, 2024, the Minister made the call while speaking to Newsmen shortly after the close of the two- day High level Africa counter terrorism summit held in Abuja.

The Minister said: “We have resolved amongst the participating countries that each sub regional body should organise itself and come together as a United Africa to develop means and strategies in partnership with the International Community to tackle terrorism and other related crimes in the continent.”

He said that the time to act to secure Africa from insecurity is now and God’s Willing that will be achieved in no distance time.

Furthermore, the Minister called for a collaborative approach in intelligence sharing and information gathering on the sources of funding and arms acquisition by the terrorists. “This will help in checkmating the scourge of terrorism and also in cross-checking the movement of terrorists across borders.”