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Venezuela Solidarity Campaign in Nigeria Condemns Alleged U.S. Seizure of Chinese Vessels

Maryam Aminu

The Venezuela Solidarity Campaign in Nigeria has condemned what it described as the seizure of Chinese commercial vessels by the United States within Venezuelan territorial waters, accusing Washington of maritime piracy and violations of international law.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the group said the reported action amounted to “imperial aggression” against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and an infringement on the commercial rights of the People’s Republic of China.

The campaign maintained that Venezuela, as a sovereign nation, has the right to control its territorial waters and engage in lawful trade with any country of its choosing.

According to the group, any unilateral military or coercive action taken without international authorization undermines the United Nations Charter and threatens global peace and stability.

It further alleged that the incident forms part of a broader pattern of economic sanctions, military threats, and coercive measures aimed at Venezuela and its international partners.

The campaign argued that such actions disproportionately affect countries in the Global South and set a dangerous precedent for international relations.

It warned that continued pressure on Venezuela could further destabilize global affairs and harm civilian populations.
The Venezuela Solidarity Campaign in Nigeria called for the immediate release of all seized vessels and crew members, an end to sanctions and military provocations against Venezuela, and international accountability for alleged violations of international law.

It also urged African nations, civil society groups, and pro-sovereignty movements to speak out against what it termed the normalization of maritime coercion and economic warfare. Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s anti-colonial history, the group said African countries have a moral obligation to oppose actions they view as neo-imperialism.

The statement was jointly endorsed by Gerald O. Katchy, National Secretary of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights; Dimeji Macaulay, Coordinator of the Anti-Fascist Movement; Blessing Yusuf, FCT Chairperson of the Federation of Informal Workers of Nigeria (FIWON); and Abiodun Emmanuel Fayemi, Head of the African Farmers and Agricultural Practitioners (AFAP).

Digital Transformation for the Vulnerable: Why Rural Nigeria Must Not Be Left Behind

By Dr. Gabriel Akinremi

In today’s world, digital transformation is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. Across the globe, governments are leveraging technology to deliver social protection more efficiently, transparently, and inclusively. Nigeria has taken bold steps in this direction with the expansion of the National Social Register and the push toward a Digital Social Registry. Yet, as we celebrate these milestones, we must confront a sobering reality: rural Nigeria risks being left behind.

The digital divide, the gap between those who have access to modern information and communication technologies and those who do not, is stark in Nigeria. Urban centres like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt are rapidly embracing digital innovation, while rural communities remain constrained by poor connectivity, limited infrastructure, and low digital literacy. If digital transformation in social protection is to succeed, it must be inclusive. It must reach the farmer in Zamfara, the widow in Ebonyi, and the child in Borno.

Digital transformation in social protection offers immense promise. By digitizing registries, linking them to national identity systems, and integrating them with digital payment platforms, Nigeria can ensure that vulnerable households receive timely and targeted support. Fraud and duplication can be reduced, transparency enhanced, and efficiency improved.

Imagine a system where a rural household is digitally identified, enrolled in a cash transfer programme, and receives funds directly into a mobile wallet. Imagine a mother in a remote village accessing subsidised healthcare because her digital identity is linked to the national health insurance scheme. These are not distant dreams; they are achievable realities if we bridge the digital divide.

Although Rural Nigeria faces unique challenges that make digital transformation difficult, connectivity remains a significant barrier. Many rural communities lack reliable internet access, and even mobile network coverage is patchy. Electricity supply is inconsistent, making it difficult to power devices or maintain digital infrastructure.

Digital literacy is another hurdle. While urban populations are increasingly comfortable with smartphones, apps, and online platforms, many rural residents have limited exposure to digital tools. For them, the idea of registering online or receiving payments through mobile platforms can be intimidating.

Socioeconomic factors compound these challenges. Poverty levels are higher in rural areas, limiting the ability of households to purchase smartphones or data plans. Gender disparities also play a role, with women in rural communities often having less access to digital tools than men.

Leaving rural Nigeria behind in digital transformation is not just unjust; it is counterproductive. Rural communities represent a significant portion of Nigeria’s population. They are home to millions of vulnerable households who stand to benefit most from social protection programmes. If digital systems exclude them, the very purpose of social protection is undermined.

Moreover, exclusion can deepen inequality. Urban populations will continue to benefit from digital innovation, while rural households remain trapped in cycles of poverty. This urban-rural divide can fuel social tensions and weaken national cohesion.

Inclusive digital transformation is therefore not optional; it is essential. It is the only way to ensure that social protection reaches every Nigerian, regardless of geography.
So how do we ensure that rural Nigeria is not left behind? Several strategies can make digital transformation more inclusive

Government and private sector must invest in expanding broadband and mobile network coverage to rural areas. Innovative solutions such as community networks, satellite internet, and solar-powered base stations can help overcome infrastructural challenges. Public-private partnerships will be key to financing and sustaining these initiatives.
Digital literacy programmes must be rolled out in rural communities. These can be delivered through schools, community centers, and local NGOs. Training should be practical, focusing on how to use mobile phones, access digital services, and protect personal data. Women and youth should be prioritized to ensure inclusivity.
Mobile phones are the most accessible digital tools in rural Nigeria. Social protection programmes should be designed to work seamlessly with mobile platforms. Mobile wallets, USSD codes, and SMS-based services can enable households to access benefits without needing smartphones or internet access.

Trust is critical. Rural households must believe that digital systems are designed to serve them. Clear communication, transparency, and visible results will build confidence. Data protection laws must be enforced to reassure citizens that their information is safe.

Local governments, traditional leaders, and community-based organizations must be involved in designing and implementing digital social protection programmes. Their participation will ensure that initiatives reflect local realities and gain community acceptance.

Policies must explicitly prioritize rural inclusion. Targets should be set for rural connectivity, digital literacy, and enrolment in digital social protection programmes. Monitoring and evaluation frameworks should track progress and identify gaps.

Therefore, the Nigerian government can learn from countries that have successfully bridged the digital divide in social protection. India’s Aadhaar system, for example, has enrolled over a billion citizens, including rural populations, by leveraging mobile technology and community outreach. Kenya’s M-Pesa has revolutionised financial inclusion by enabling mobile payments in rural areas.

These examples show that with the right policies, investments, and partnerships, rural inclusion is possible. Nigeria must adapt these lessons to its unique context, ensuring that solutions are culturally appropriate and locally sustainable.

Innovation will be critical in bridging the digital divide. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence can help identify vulnerable households more accurately. Blockchain can enhance transparency in cash transfers. Solar-powered devices can overcome electricity challenges.

Nigeria’s vibrant tech ecosystem has the capacity to develop solutions tailored to rural realities. Startups, universities, and research institutions should be encouraged to innovate in the field of digital social protection.
Digital transformation in social protection is Nigeria’s opportunity to build a more inclusive and equitable society. But this opportunity will be squandered if rural Nigeria is left behind. The farmer in Zamfara, the widow in Ebonyi, and the alumajiri child in Borno must be at the centre of our digital agenda.

Bridging the digital divide requires investment, innovation, and inclusive policies. It requires partnerships between the government, the private sector, civil society, and local communities. Most importantly, it requires a commitment to justice a recognition that every Nigerian, regardless of geography, deserves access to social protection.

Nigeria’s future depends on how we manage this transition. If we succeed, digital transformation will not only modernise our social protection systems; it will empower millions of vulnerable households, strengthen national cohesion, and drive inclusive growth. If we fail, the digital divide will deepen inequality and undermine our development goals.

The choice is ours. Our government needs to ensure inclusion. Let us ensure that rural Nigeria is not left behind.

Digital Violence Is Real Violence: Re-writing Safety, Power, and Accountability in the Digital Age – Gabriel Akinremi, PhD

As Nigeria deepens its push towards digital transformation, a new and dangerous frontier of gender-based violence has emerged, one that lawmakers, regulators, and technology companies have not adequately confronted. Digital violence, once dismissed as “harmless online behaviour,” now threatens the safety, participation, and dignity of women and girls across the country.

Yet, as global conversations intensify under the theme “Digital violence is real violence. It is a declaration that the harm inflicted through the screen has crossed the boundaries of anonymity, geography, and time. It is a reminder that despite the promise of technology, the digital world has become the newest frontier for gendered harm, echoing and sometimes amplifying centuries old inequities.
Therefore, there is #NoExcuse for online abuse. One truth is becoming impossible to ignore: the harm women face online is no less real and often more far-reaching than the violence they endure offline.

Based on my experience in digital governance, cybersecurity, and national information systems, I have seen how technology amplifies existing inequalities. For many Nigerian women, social media, messaging platforms, and even workplace digital tools have become unsafe spaces, filled with harassment, impersonation, threats, sextortion, deepfake abuse, and cyberstalking.

Victims withdraw from online learning, political discourse, job opportunities, entrepreneurship, and public engagement. Some change their phone numbers repeatedly. Others abandon professional platforms entirely.

Digital violence does not end when the device locks. It travels into women’s careers, mental health, family life, and sense of safety.

Despite rising case numbers documented by civil society organisations, Nigeria’s current legal and policy frameworks remain inadequate. Digital violence sits at the intersection of cybersecurity, digital rights, justice, and national development but is treated as an afterthought.

If Nigeria expects women to participate meaningfully in Politics, Digital entrepreneurship, Public leadership, STEM fields, Journalism, and Civic advocacy, then digital safety must be a national priority.

Technology does not create misogyny; it multiplies it. Without robust safeguards, online spaces will continue to reproduce the very power structures Nigeria claims it is trying to dismantle.

Beyond harassment and bullying, more sophisticated threats are emerging, such as Deepfake blackmail of young girls and public figures, AI generated sexual content used for intimidation, Non-consensual image circulation, and Data-driven targeting of women activists and Algorithmic bias that exposes women to harmful content.

These tools make abuse easier, anonymity stronger, and evidence harder to track leaving victims with fewer options for justice.

As a digital transformation specialist, I believe Nigeria must urgently update its cybercrime, digital rights, and data protection frameworks to address this new reality. The current pace of reform does not match the velocity of technological harm.

To protect women and strengthen trust in our digital ecosystem, Nigeria must commit to Gender responsive digital policy reforms. Laws must explicitly recognise digital violence as a prosecutable form of gender-based violence, and provide better investigative capacity for law enforcement. Cyberstalking and extortion cases fail because many investigators lack the tools and training to trace digital trails. Therefore, there must be Stronger accountability for tech platforms operating in Nigeria. Companies must respond more quickly to reports and make their safety algorithms more transparent. While we will put in place National digital safety education in Schools, workplaces, and communities, digital safety should be treated as an essential life skill, not optional knowledge.

Survivor centred reporting and redress systems. Victims must have quick, stigma-free channels to report cases and seek justice. Nigeria cannot continue to build its digital economy on unsafe foundations.
The fight against digital violence is not merely about punishing offenders; it is about protecting women’s voices, opportunities, and freedom to participate in a digital Nigeria.
A society where women are shamed, threatened, or blackmailed into silence cannot innovate.

A digital economy that exposes half its population to violence cannot grow sustainably.

A nation that ignores online abuse undermines its own democratic future.

If we are bold enough, technology can become a pathway to equity, not a weapon of oppression. But that future will only emerge if Nigeria acknowledges a simple truth. Digital violence is real violence, and there is absolutely #NoExcuse.

Youth Empowerment at the Forefront as Kano Hosts North-West Security Summit

Maryam Aminu

Kano State on Wednesday highlighted the critical link between youth engagement and regional security as it hosted the North-West Multi-Stakeholders Security Summit, convening government officials, security agencies, community leaders, and youth representatives.

The summit, organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, was designed not only to address insecurity but also to spotlight the role of young people as catalysts for peace and development.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who was honoured with the Outstanding Leadership Award and decorated as an Icon of Security Ambassador, urged youths to channel their energy into productive ventures, skills acquisition, and entrepreneurship, stressing that sustainable security begins with empowered citizens.
“Youths are the backbone of our communities. When they are engaged positively, we see a dramatic reduction in crime and social vices. The government is committed to creating opportunities, and young people must seize them,” Governor Yusuf said.

Ambassador Ade-Mario Emmanuel, Director-General of CONYSSA, reinforced this view, calling for stronger government support for both youth initiatives and security agencies.

He argued that well-empowered youths are less likely to be drawn into criminal networks and more likely to contribute to social stability.
The summit also featured contributions from security agencies, including the NDLEA and EFCC, who emphasised partnerships with credible organisations to curb drug abuse and financial crimes, two key drivers of insecurity among young people.

A keynote lecture on “Security Challenges in Northern Nigeria” by security consultant Dr. Yahuza Getso, represented by Mr. Ahmad Rufai, highlighted the need for sustained collaboration between government, communities, and youths to achieve long-term peace.

By shifting the conversation from enforcement alone to youth inclusion and empowerment, Kano State’s summit underscored a growing recognition that the solution to insecurity in the North-West lies not just in policing but in preparing young people for meaningful roles in society.

Uba Sani Signals Readiness to Implement Full Local Government Autonomy in Kaduna

Maryam Aminu

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has indicated readiness to implement full local government autonomy in line with the July 2024 Supreme Court judgment mandating direct allocation of statutory funds to local councils across Nigeria.
The Supreme Court ruling directed that allocations meant for local governments should be paid directly to the councils, rather than routed through state governments.

President Bola Tinubu has repeatedly urged governors to comply fully with the judgment, describing local government autonomy as critical to deepening democracy and improving grassroots development.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Caucus meeting in Abuja earlier this week, President Tinubu reaffirmed the federal government’s position on the issue.
“There is no autonomy without a funded mandate,” the President said.

“We’ll give them their money directly. That’s the truth.”

Governor Sani’s stance places Kaduna among states signalling early alignment with the federal government’s push for fiscal and administrative independence at the local government level.

Officials within the Kaduna State Government say strengthening local councils would improve service delivery, particularly in education, healthcare and rural development, areas often affected by limited funding and centralised control.

The state’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, recently underscored the importance of empowered local governments while speaking at a governance conference in Kaduna. She noted that Nigeria’s democracy cannot function optimally without accountable and effective leadership at the grassroots.
“Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive without competent, legitimate and accountable governance at the grassroots,” Balarabe said, adding that well-resourced local councils are essential for sustainable development and alignment with the federal reform agenda.

Governance and public finance experts have also weighed in on the reform. Dr. Emeka Okwuosa, a public finance specialist at the Centre for Fiscal Studies, said direct allocation of funds would give local councils greater capacity to plan and execute development initiatives without undue interference.
According to him, local government autonomy represents “a significant step toward strengthening accountability and democratic governance at the grassroots.”

However, analysts have cautioned that autonomy must be matched with stronger financial management and oversight frameworks.

Prof. Amina Rufai of the Nigerian Institute of Policy Analysis warned that capacity gaps at the local level could limit the impact of direct funding if not addressed.
“Local governments need robust financial management and accountability systems. Without them, direct allocations may not translate into meaningful development,” she said.
President Tinubu’s administration has maintained that empowering local governments remains a key pillar of its governance reforms. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described local council autonomy as essential to accelerating development and deepening democratic participation at the community level.

As discussions around implementation continue nationwide, Governor Sani’s position is being closely watched as states respond to the Supreme Court ruling and growing federal pressure for compliance.
The coming weeks are expected to shape how quickly the reform moves from policy declaration to practical implementation across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.

ODA Abuja Branch Closes 2025 in Grand Style, Honours Distinguished Leaders

Maryam Aminu

The Obowu Development Association (ODA), Abuja Branch, on Sunday hosted a colourful End-of-Year and Award-Giving Ceremony at the Obowu Hall, Gwarinmpa, Abuja, bringing together distinguished personalities, community leaders and stakeholders from Obowu and beyond to celebrate unity, service and progress.

In his welcome address, the President of ODA Abuja Branch, Ichie Bede O. Anyanwu (Mayor), expressed deep appreciation to members for their unwavering support since the inauguration of the current executive in March 2024, despite prevailing economic challenges.

He highlighted key achievements of the administration, including strengthened welfare initiatives, improved security and facilities at the ODA Hall, a constitution review focused on members’ welfare, effective dispute resolution through the Ombudsman Committee, and sustained engagement with town unions and affiliate bodies.

The ceremony also served as a platform to recognise excellence and dedicated service. Ambassador Timothy Ihemadu was specially honoured for his appointment in the oil and gas sector, while Hon. Chief Barr. Victor Muruako, Esq., Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission, received an award for his outstanding contributions to the empowerment and advancement of Obowu sons and daughters, particularly in employment and education. Chief Dr. Cliff Ogbede, Executive Director, South East Development Commission, and Engr. Goddy Nwokorie were also recognised for their leadership excellence and commitment to community development.

The event attracted several eminent personalities, including Baa Jaffa Nwosu, OON; Chief Chika Okafor; Gen. Okey Ugoh (Rtd); Gen. Dr. Ikechukwu Okeke (Rtd); Chief Chris Uwadoka, PhD; Dr. Charles Okafor; and His Royal Highness, Igwe Ezenwa Anyanwu, Eze Igbo II of Karu, Abuja, among others. Their presence underscored the unity, strength and growing influence of the Obowu community in the Federal Capital Territory.

Looking ahead, the ODA Abuja leadership unveiled key priorities for 2026, including the convening of an ODA Consultative Forum to address rising insecurity, the launch of a social responsibility initiative to support the education of vulnerable members, and urgent structural reinforcement of the ODA Hall to preserve it as a lasting legacy for future generations.

Chaired by Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Nwagwu, and anchored by Harrison Onyemjoro (Obi Ego) and Okonkwo Chinyere Ujunwa of the Voice of Nigeria, the ceremony provided a fitting and celebratory close to the year marked by unity, gratitude, recognition and renewed commitment to the development of Obowu.

The 2025 End-of-Year celebration once again reaffirmed the ODA Abuja Branch as a vibrant, forward-looking association, united in purpose and resolute in advancing the collective interests of Obowu people wherever they reside.

Security Is a Collective Responsibility- Matawalle Reaffirms Collaborative Approach

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of State for Defence, His Excellency Dr. Bello Matawalle, MON, has reiterated that ensuring national security is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of citizens, communities and all relevant stakeholders.

Dr. Matawalle made this assertion on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, when members of the National Forum of Former Legislators paid him a courtesy visit at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.

According to the Minister, safeguarding the nation goes beyond the efforts of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces alone, stressing that public cooperation, timely intelligence sharing and community vigilance are critical to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. He noted that managing national security has become increasingly complex due to evolving threats across different parts of the country.

“While public concerns and criticisms are understandable in a democratic society, it is important to situate these challenges within their proper historical and operational context,” Matawalle said.

He explained that under the current administration, the Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, has continued to confront security threats through renewed strategies, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, sustained operations and capacity building, all aimed at protecting lives and securing communities.

The Minister further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national security through sustained collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms of government.

He emphasized that addressing Nigeria’s security challenges requires a holistic approach that combines kinetic operations with non-kinetic strategies such as intelligence sharing and effective legislative oversight.

Matawalle also underscored the importance of leveraging the experience and institutional knowledge of former legislators in shaping policies that promote peace, stability and national cohesion.

He commended the forum for its continued interest in national security issues and assured members of the Ministry’s readiness to work closely with them and other relevant institutions to ensure a safer Nigeria.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Honourable Raphael Nnanna Ibekwe, said the visit was to identify with the Ministry of Defence and commend its efforts despite the challenges it faces. He acknowledged that security is a collective responsibility and used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to support the government and security agencies in tackling emerging threats.

Ibekwe urged the Ministry to remain focused on delivering the President’s agenda and pledged the forum’s support, particularly in the area of non-kinetic approaches. He noted that the forum comprises experienced hands, including security experts, who are willing to assist in making Nigeria more secure.

He also encouraged the Minister of State for Defence to remain steadfast, adding that the forum’s visit was to show solidarity and confidence in his leadership, given his track record and credentials.

Youth Ministry Goes Fully Digital, Launches Paperless System Ahead of Federal Deadline

Maryam Aminu

In a bold step towards modern governance, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has officially launched its Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), positioning the Ministry at the forefront of the Federal Government’s transition to a fully paperless civil service.

The launch, held in Abuja, comes ahead of the December 31, 2025 deadline set by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to migrate to digital operations, marking a significant milestone in public sector reform.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the ECMS deployed in partnership with Galaxy Backbone Limited as a game-changing platform designed to boost efficiency, transparency, record management and service delivery across the Ministry.

According to the Minister, the system represents more than a technological upgrade. “This is a fundamental shift in our work culture. Moving from manual processes to seamless digital workflows will accelerate decision-making and strengthen accountability in the delivery of youth-focused programmes,” he said.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, Comrade Olawande underscored the critical role of staff in driving the success of the initiative, urging them to fully embrace the system as a tool to reduce clerical burdens while enhancing creativity, monitoring and youth engagement.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, hailed the ECMS launch as a major boost to the Federal Government’s public service reform agenda. She noted that the adoption of paperless systems is central to building a modern, responsive and results-driven civil service.

“The Ministry of Youth Development has demonstrated commendable leadership by embracing this reform. A paperless civil service will improve efficiency, professionalism and service delivery,” Mrs. Walson-Jack stated.

She added that the system is expected to cut operational costs, eliminate delays caused by physical files, promote environmental sustainability and enhance services to Nigerian youth. The initiative, she noted, aligns with Pillar 5 of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (2021–2025) and supports the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Also speaking, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Galaxy Backbone Limited, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju represented by Hon. Olusegun Olulade, Executive Director of Customer Centricity and Marketing described the Ministry’s onboarding onto the One Government Cloud (OneGov) Platform as a critical step in the nation’s digital transformation journey.

He commended the Ministry’s leadership for embracing innovation and reaffirmed Galaxy Backbone’s commitment to providing sustained technical support to build a more effective, inclusive and future-ready public service.

With the ECMS now in operation, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development has signaled its readiness to lead by example in Nigeria’s march towards a digitally driven and efficient public sector.

Dr. Maryam Keshinro Assumes Office as Permanent Secretary, Pledges Stronger Youth Empowerment Drive

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has formally welcomed Dr. Maryam Keshinro as its new Permanent Secretary, following a handover ceremony held in Abuja on Monday.

Addressing Directors, staff and inter-ministerial partners, Dr. Keshinro expressed appreciation for the warm reception, describing her appointment as a continuation of her long-standing commitment to mentorship, public service and national development.

She commended the achievements of her predecessor and assured that existing gains would be consolidated and expanded.

She underscored the strategic importance of the Ministry, noting that young people constitute nearly 70 per cent of Nigeria’s population, making youth development central to the country’s future. Dr. Keshinro reaffirmed the Ministry’s alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that youth empowerment remains a national priority.

The new Permanent Secretary pledged to lead with integrity, accountability and professionalism, with a focus on strengthening due process, transparency and the rule of law; promoting merit, hard work and continuous improvement; leveraging staff expertise for impactful programmes; and ensuring service delivery that responds to the needs of young Nigerians.

She announced that internal briefings would commence shortly, during which Departments would present updates on ongoing programmes, achievements, challenges, budget performance, nominal roll status, 2026 leave rosters and strategic priorities for the year ahead.

Reaffirming her open-door leadership style, Dr. Keshinro encouraged staff to contribute innovative ideas, report challenges promptly and participate actively in policy development, while upholding teamwork, professionalism and effective communication.

“Together, we will build a legacy of pride, progress and lasting empowerment for the Nigerian youth,” she said.

In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, highlighted key areas for sustaining the Ministry’s momentum, including seamless programme handover, support for promotions and capacity building, strengthened monitoring and evaluation, and enhanced private-sector collaboration.

He expressed confidence that the Ministry would continue to advance youth development across the country.

Doro Calls for Unified Humanitarian, Poverty Reduction System at Abuja Dialogue

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, has called for the establishment of a unified national framework to coordinate humanitarian response and poverty reduction efforts across Nigeria, stressing the need for stronger sub-national ownership and results-based financing.

Dr. Doro made the call on Monday during a one-day High-Level Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Strengthening Sub-National Ownership and Results-Based Financing (RBF) for Humanitarian and Development Interventions, held at the European Union Conference Hall in Abuja.

He emphasised that state governments should assume primary operational responsibility for first-line humanitarian responses, particularly in addressing recurring challenges such as flooding, insecurity, population displacement and growing socio-economic vulnerabilities. According to him, states and local governments possess the proximity and contextual understanding required for timely, effective and sustainable interventions.

“Sub-national ownership is no longer optional but imperative,” the minister said, noting that humanitarian planning must be fully integrated into state development frameworks to deliver lasting impact.

Dr. Doro outlined key objectives of the dialogue, including reinforcing the operational mandates of State Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction through improved budgeting, enhanced preparedness systems and stronger emergency response coordination. He also called for consensus on state-led response mechanisms such as early warning systems, motivation protocols for local governments and structured coordination among State Emergency Management Agencies and community-based responders.

A major highlight of the dialogue was the unveiling of the proposed “One Humanitarian, One Poverty Reduction System”, a national platform designed to harmonise and track all humanitarian and poverty reduction interventions across government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations and the private sector. Dr. Doro said the platform would enhance transparency, provide real-time data, support evidence-based decision-making and eliminate duplication of efforts, while anchoring financing on verifiable outcomes.

He further noted that progress in humanitarian response, social protection and poverty reduction would be gradual but achievable through sustained commitment and collaboration. While acknowledging ongoing debates around the boundaries between humanitarian intervention and social protection, he stressed that the ultimate focus must remain on measurable improvements in the lives of Nigerians.

The minister added that the dialogue, alongside upcoming engagements such as a follow-up meeting in February and the National Council on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, was aimed at ensuring effective implementation of national policies at state and local government levels. He called for stronger collaboration on livelihood creation and productive interventions with clearly defined exit outcomes that move beneficiaries out of poverty.

In his remarks, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, underscored the constitutional and developmental necessity for cooperation across all tiers of government.

He noted that humanitarian action, social protection and poverty reduction are embedded in Nigeria’s Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy.

He also highlighted that ongoing macroeconomic reforms and increased fiscal inflows to states and local governments present new opportunities for investment in humanitarian and social sectors, in line with the National Development Plan and the Renewed Hope Development Agenda.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, thanked participants for their engagement and urged states to utilise forthcoming platforms, including the National Council on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction scheduled for January 2026, to deepen collaboration, share best practices and mobilise additional resources.

Also speaking, the EU Head of State, Human Development, Ms. Leila Ben Amor Mathieu, reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s humanitarian and development priorities, particularly initiatives that strengthen local ownership, accountability and sustainable financing.

Panel sessions at the dialogue featured presentations on state-led poverty reduction initiatives under the Durable Solutions Framework, cascading the National Social Protection Framework to state levels, and results-based approaches to poverty reduction.

The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment among stakeholders to strengthen sub-national leadership, improve preparedness and emergency response systems, and advance results-based financing frameworks to ensure sustainable and measurable impact.

The event attracted participants from federal and state governments, local government authorities, civil society organisations, donor agencies, technical experts and the humanitarian community, with representatives from ECHO and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs also in attendance.