Author Archives: daudupress

By Dr. Uche Nworah

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is a Ministry of the Federal Government of Nigeria that has the mandate to ensure food security in crop, livestock and fisheries. The ministry is also tasked to stimulate agricultural employment and services, promote the production and supply of raw materials to Agro- allied industries, provide markets for the products of the industrial sector, generate foreign exchange and aid rural socio-economic development throughout Nigeria.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), is a Federal Government of Nigeria agency charged with the responsibility to advise the Federal Government on all aspects of meteorology. NiMet is also tasked to project, prepare and interpret government policy in the field of meteorology; and to issue weather (and climate) forecasts for the safe operations of aircrafts, ocean going vessels and oil rigs.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security have in the past made moves to strengthen their existing relationship towards improving agricultural production and food security in Nigeria. The Ministry and NiMet had signed an MoU on the 3rd of March, 2022, to collaborate in a lot of areas including development of a dash-board for early warning systems, capacity building for staff of the Ministry and other stakeholders on accessing and interpreting information on meteorological parameter changes, and the provision of agro-meteorological advisory services to farmers on specific agricultural commodities. It would seem as if things quietened down after the MoU was signed.

However, at a joint press briefing on NiMet’s 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), at the instance of the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, on Tuesday, 16th April, 2024, the Honourable Minister and the Director General, Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, and Nigeria’s permanent representative with World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Professor Charles Anosike, resolved to strengthen the relationship and make it stronger. The Honourable Minister said at the press briefing; “Your presence here today, at our headquarters, marks another milestone in the deliberate and desirable collaboration and co-operation between our Ministry and your agency. Over the years, critical sectors of the economy, such as aviation, maritime, and agriculture, have come to rely on the Seasonal Climate Prediction published by NiMeT usually in the first quarter of the year. The reliability of the Seasonal Climate Prediction is indicated by increased recourse to the weather advisories contained therein”.

The Honourable Minister also said that NIMET’s Seasonal Climate Prediction can assist in shaping agriculture in Nigeria with regard to information about the pattern and duration of rainfall across the country’s agronomic zones, when to grow and length of growing season, as well as dry spells that could occasion loss of agricultural investment, where remedial measures are not taken. This in turn helps to boost the adaptive capacity of farmers. Regrettably, there have been farming seasons in Nigeria when farmers did not take advantage of the institutional advice from NIMET, and on their own misread the rainfall pattern, only to face dry spells that invariably ruined their crops and livelihoods.

In his remarks, Professor Anosike thanked the Honourable Minister for his leadership and the kind gesture to strengthen the relationship between NiMet and the ministry. “NiMet wishes to build on the database of farmers that the ministry has. Already NiMet disseminates information about seasonal climate prediction through formal engagements with farmers , and through the media such as the BBC, social media, Radio Nigeria and through national television stations.
However, a lot of gaps still exist within the dissemination space. Our goal is to reach as many Nigerians as possible with timely, accurate and actionable weather and climate information as part of NiMet Early Warning Drive”

Continuing, Professor Anosike said; “Food security requires consistent collaboration with all stakeholders. The SCP as predicted are being manifested but the challenge remains disseminating the contents to over 70 million farmers in Nigeria. Farmers need to be equipped with information and other resources to make climate resilient decisions”.

It is noteworthy and encouraging that weeks after the joint press briefing between the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and NiMet, there are evidences of the renewed collaboration. This is positive and will benefit the Nigerian economy. Knowledge is power and if Nigerian farmers have weather and climate information translated in their local languages, they will be able to make climate resilient decisions such as knowing when to plant, what species of plants and seeds to plant and when to harvest to achieve greater yield.

The 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) released by NiMet provides an outlook of climate variables to help improve decision-making across all sectors of the economy. NiMet’s SCP for 2024 which was originally released in February 2024, forecasts normal on-set of rains over the northern states.Borno, Abia and Akwa Ibom states are predicted to have early on- sets. An early end to the season is predicted for parts of Yobe, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kano, Kaduna, Plateau, Nasarawa, Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, Cross River, Ebonyi, Ogun and Lagos states.

A late secession is predicted over the southern states of Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Ekiti and part of Edo, Delta, Ogun, Oyo, Kogi, Kwara, FCT, Niger and Kaduna states.
Day and Night time temperatures for January to May is predicted to be warmer than normal in most parts of the country. Also, most of the North is anticipated to be cooler in March.

The Ministry and NiMet have re-intensified efforts at disseminating NiMet’s seasonal climate prediction (SCP), using FRCN network service, local radio, local and national press, national and local television. They are also using social media platforms. Applying the multi-step information flow model will require social media savvy stakeholders picking up the information online and sharing same to the farmers in their various communities.

A critical aspect of the dissemination is the physical downscaling of the SCP information to farmers in the various communities. This will require the support of the various states ministries of agriculture and NGOs operating in the agricultural space. They should support current downscaling efforts by the ministry and NiMet. From the schedule released by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and NiMet, downscaling of SCP information to farmers in the six geopolitical zones have been scheduled as follows; Ondo (13th May), Imo (15th May), Delta (17th May), Niger (22nd May), Sokoto (4th June) and Borno (6th June). Farmers, civil society organizations, states ministries of agriculture, the media and other stakeholders can help in sensitizing the farmers to attend on the dates stated for their zones.

This initiative by the two MDAs is viewed as a positive step towards enhancing food security in Nigeria. It will empower our farmers, and has the capacity to mitigate the perennial challenges of climate variability. It will at the same time contribute towards sustainable resilience in the agricultural value chain.

The full SCP report can be downloaded from http://www.nimet.gov.ng. The report is also available from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture And Food Security Abuja, and State Ministries of Agriculture.

Dr. Nworah, a public affairs commentator wrote from Lagos.

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.

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.

… 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.

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.

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.”