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WSCIJ Pushes Collaborative Journalism to Sustain Accountability, Public Pressure

Maryam Aminu

Across newsrooms, some of the most impactful investigative reports are rarely produced in isolation, yet many lose momentum once published, weakening the opportunity to sustain public pressure and drive accountability.

It was against this backdrop that the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism organised the virtual Collaborative Media Engagement for Development, Inclusivity and Accountability (CMEDIA) Collaborative Investigations Training, where journalists were urged to embrace partnerships that strengthen investigative reporting and deepen democratic accountability.

Facilitating a session titled “From Idea to Impact,” the Chief Executive Officer of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, Motunrayo Alaka, said successful collaborative investigations must be built on shared public interest values, strategic partnerships and ethical leadership.

“The greatest threat to collaboration is ambiguity,” Alaka stated, stressing the need for clear governance structures, trust infrastructure and agreed operational guidelines among partners.

She explained that impactful collaborative journalism involves risk mapping, stakeholder mapping, language considerations and strategic timelines to ensure credibility, safety, audience reach and long-term impact.

According to her, “Collaborative investigations are ultimately about democratic responsibilities.”

Alaka also encouraged journalists to collaborate beyond traditional newsroom spaces in order to amplify investigative stories and expand audience engagement.
“Protect people rigorously, lead ethically,” she added.

Also speaking, Haruna Babale urged journalists to move beyond competition and prioritise partnerships capable of advancing public interest journalism.

“If the goal of journalism is to make society better, then we should grow past competition,” he said.

Babale further questioned the reluctance among journalists to collaborate despite the organised nature of corruption and abuse of public resources.

“What is stopping us from collaborating if those stealing our resources collaborate?” he asked.
The training focused on strengthening collaborative investigative journalism as a tool for accountability, inclusivity and sustained civic engagement in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Security Outlook Improving Under Tinubu, Says Defence Minister

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) OFR, has declared that Nigeria’s security and national outlook are steadily improving under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attributing the progress to the President’s commitment to national security and development.

General Musa made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja while speaking with journalists shortly after the commissioning of the annex branch of Haam Legal Consult Services.

The Defence Minister said President Tinubu had continued to provide strong support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, boosting the military’s operational capacity in the fight against insecurity across the country.

He disclosed that the Nigerian military was also collaborating with its American counterparts and other peace-loving nations to tackle the nation’s security challenges.

According to him, the Armed Forces remain fully committed to safeguarding lives and property, assuring Nigerians that troops were working tirelessly to restore peace and stability nationwide.

General Musa, however, stressed that national security could not be achieved by the military alone, calling on citizens to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities.

He warned against harbouring or assisting criminal elements, noting that insecurity persists in some communities because certain individuals continue to shield offenders.

“If all Nigerians decide today that there will be no more support for criminals, I can assure you that within one month, these security challenges would largely become things of the past,” he stated.

Speaking further on leadership and governance, the Minister underscored the need for credible and visionary leaders committed to national growth and development.

“We do not need criminal-minded individuals in leadership positions. We need leaders who genuinely have passion for this country and are committed to making the necessary changes Nigeria desires. We all travel outside the country and see how things work; it is all about leadership. Once we have purposeful leadership, things will change. Nigeria is changing,” he said.

He also urged Nigerians to actively participate in politics and support leaders genuinely committed to nation-building, cautioning against ethnic, religious and sentimental politics, as well as vote-selling.

On the newly commissioned Haam Legal Consult Services annex branch, General Musa commended the initiative of young legal practitioners, particularly the Principal Partner of the firm and Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Defence, Barrister Aliyu Anas.

The Minister highlighted the importance of law, justice and human rights in nation-building, stressing that no society can thrive without respect for the rule of law.

“A community that is respected is a community that obeys the law and respects the rights of others. Without law and order, humanity cannot thrive, and no nation can command respect if its laws are not obeyed. Even businesses cannot flourish in an environment where there is no respect for the rule of law,” he stated.

Earlier, the Head of Chambers, Barrister Abdulsalam Ibrahim, appreciated the Honourable Minister of Defence and his entourage for attending the event.

He pledged that the firm would continue to render services with fairness and justice in line with the ethics of the legal profession.

Barrister Abdulsalam Ibrahim added that the firm provides services in areas including land and property agreements, legal advisory services, legal drafting, election matters, property management, contract reviews, real estate and Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration, among others.

FG Moves To Shield NLNG Operations, Energy Infrastructure Amid Security Concerns

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical national assets, including Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) operations and key energy infrastructure, as concerns over threats to the nation’s economic value chain continue to mount.

The assurance was given by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa Gwabin (Rtd) OFR, during a courtesy visit by the executive leadership of NLNG to the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.

The high-level engagement centred on strengthening security collaboration to safeguard vital energy infrastructure, ensure national economic stability and support NLNG’s ongoing capacity expansion projects.

General Christopher Musa (rtd) stressed that “Nigeria needs gas” and described collaboration between stakeholders as the most effective approach to addressing operational bottlenecks affecting the sector.

The Defence Minister also disclosed that the Federal Government had established a dedicated Maritime Task Force operating within the Gulf of Guinea to tackle insecurity in the maritime domain and protect strategic assets.

He further revealed that amid a global slowdown in international arms procurement, Nigeria was increasingly looking inward by developing local defence production capacity as a sustainable long-term solution.
Reaffirming the Armed Forces’ readiness to support NLNG operations, General Musa stated: “I assure you that we are together, and we are going to give you all the support that you need.”

Earlier, the NLNG Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Leye Falade, commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continued role in protecting critical national infrastructure essential to economic growth.

Falade noted that disruptions to upstream operations directly impact national output, particularly as NLNG remains a joint venture with majority government ownership.

He also highlighted the growing domestic demand for cleaner energy alternatives, stressing that the company was working to address challenges linked to lack of clean cooking solutions across the country.

“The military has significantly stepped up to help us continue serving the nation. As one of Nigeria’s highest tax-paying organizations, we want to do even more for the economy. We are currently expanding our capacity by 35 percent through our Train 7 project, and safeguarding these operations is paramount to balancing the expectations of our shareholders with our national mandate,” Falade stated.

He particularly praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in ensuring maritime safety and security, describing the Armed Forces as indispensable to protecting Nigeria’s economic value chain.

The meeting ended with both parties agreeing to deepen operational synergy to ensure that NLNG’s expansion projects and ongoing operations remain secure and resilient in driving Nigeria’s future economic growth.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, SA (Media to the Honourable Minister).

FG Moves To Shield NLNG Operations, Energy Infrastructure Amid Security Concerns

By Emmanuel Daudu

Falade noted that disruptions to upstream operations directly impact national output, particularly as NLNG remains a joint venture with majority government ownership.

He particularly praised the Nigerian Navy for its role in ensuring maritime safety and security, describing the Armed Forces as indispensable to protecting Nigeria’s economic value chain.

The statement was signed by Leah Katung-Babatunde, SA (Media to the Honourable Minister).

Afromedia congratulates “Cairo 24” on winning the title “Best Website In Middle East”

Hassan Ghazaly, founder of Pan African initiative on media and journalism “Afromedia”, expresses his sincere congratulations to the Editorial team of Cairo 24’s website, chiefly journalist Mahmoud El-Mamlouk, editor in chief, on the occasion of honoring the website and receiving the “The best in Middle East” award during the Trend Awards ceremony. This achievement reflects a well-established professional and media status that the website has successfully reinforced within only a few years in Egypt and Africa.

Ghazaly confirmed that honoring “Cairo 24” comes as an influential media example on both the African and local levels, capable of combining speed, accuracy and credibility in delivering news, in addition to its role in following regional and international issues, especially issues related to the African continent and its peoples.

Ghazaly appreciated this achievement, explaining that it indicates the importance of the role that Egyptian media institutions can play in supporting development issues in Africa, highlighting the voice of its peoples, and shedding light on the challenges and opportunities facing the continent, in a way that strengthens bridges of cooperation and media integration among peoples.

He added that this coronation doubles the responsibility of leading media institutions to continue presenting professional content that contributes to raising public awareness, supporting issues of justice and development, and strengthening Africa’s presence in regional and international media coverage. He wished continued success and prosperity for “Cairo 24” and more distinction and leadership in the media scene, which is embodied through the contributions of journalist Mahmoud El-Mamlouk by providing free training for African journalists and media professionals through the “Afromedia” initiative.
The Afromedia initiative was founded in 2021 under the slogan “voice of Egypt.. voice of Africa,” and it plays the role of a media communication bridge among the peoples of the continent. The “Afromedia” initiative was established in 2021 with the aim of developing journalistic and media skills for African journalists and media professionals.

Defence Minister Reaffirms Support For Families Of Fallen Soldiers

Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of families of military personnel who die in active service, as the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, hosted the brother of late Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah in Abuja.

The late senior officer, described as a gallant Infantry Commander, was killed in action at Benisheikh on April 9, 2026, while serving as Commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.

Receiving Mr. Hassan Braimah at the Ministry of Defence, the Minister conveyed the condolences of the Ministry and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the bereaved family, assuring them that the sacrifices of fallen soldiers would never be forgotten.

According to the Minister, the Federal Government remains committed to providing continuous care, support and direct access to families of officers and soldiers who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation.

“The Armed Forces will never abandon the families of those who lay down their lives for this country. We remain committed to providing assistance, care and direct access to the Ministry whenever needed,” Musa stated.
During the meeting, Hassan Braimah reflected on the life and service of his late brother, describing him as a devoted and courageous officer who served Nigeria with honour and dedication.

He also pledged the family’s support for the loved ones left behind, while expressing pride in the legacy of sacrifice and patriotism associated with the late Brigadier General.

Brigadier General Braimah was buried with full military honours at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri on April 15, alongside seven other military personnel who also died in service.

The visit, according to the Ministry, highlighted the nation’s appreciation for the sacrifices of its military personnel and the government’s determination to preserve their legacy through sustained support for their families.

FG Partners Climate Beyond Borders Caravan To Mobilise African Youths For Climate Action

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has strengthened its push for youth-driven environmental sustainability by partnering the Climate Beyond Borders Caravan, a pan-African initiative aimed at mobilising young Africans for climate advocacy and sustainable development across the continent.

The partnership was unveiled by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, during a meeting with a delegation of the Caravan in Abuja on behalf of the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande.

Dr. Keshinro described climate change as one of the most pressing challenges confronting Africa, warning that its impact continues to threaten livelihoods, food security, public health, migration, peace, and economic stability across the continent.

She stressed that despite being among the most vulnerable to climate-related challenges, young people remain critical drivers of innovation and sustainable solutions capable of transforming communities and protecting the environment.

According to her, the collaboration aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youths with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to champion climate action at community, national, and international levels.

The Permanent Secretary further described the Climate Beyond Borders Caravan as more than a cross-country advocacy campaign, noting that it represents a movement for African unity, environmental responsibility, and youth-led development.

“Through advocacy, community engagement, policy dialogue, and cross-border partnerships, the initiative will nurture a new generation of environmentally conscious African leaders,” she said.

She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for programmes promoting green innovation, renewable energy awareness, environmental education, climate entrepreneurship, and sustainable development initiatives among young people.

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Ms. Olufunke Kumuyi, said the Caravan is focused on mobilising African youths towards climate advocacy, environmental responsibility, and sustainable development.

FG, FAO Move To Tackle Youth Unemployment Through Agriculture Partnership

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government and the Food and Agriculture Organization have intensified efforts to address youth unemployment and boost food production by strengthening collaboration aimed at expanding young Nigerians’ participation in agriculture.

Speaking during a meeting with an FAO delegation in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, said the partnership would help unlock the vast potential of Nigerian youths and position agriculture as a major driver of economic growth and national development.

Keshinro, who spoke on behalf of the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, noted that Nigeria’s youthful population, estimated at about 70 per cent, remains one of the country’s greatest assets if properly harnessed through targeted investments, skills acquisition and innovation-driven programmes.

She lamented that despite Nigeria’s vast arable land and growing demand for food production, many young people remain underutilised in productive sectors, particularly agriculture.

According to her, the country continues to face a major gap between labour market demands and the skills possessed by many youths, especially in technical and practical areas required for modern agriculture.

“There is a clear imbalance between skill supply and labour demand, particularly in agriculture. This underscores the need for stronger collaboration, capacity building and practical interventions to equip our youths with relevant, market-driven skills,” she stated.

The Permanent Secretary commended the FAO for its longstanding support to Nigeria’s agricultural development agenda, stressing that the organisation’s global expertise would further strengthen efforts to empower youths and create sustainable livelihoods.

She added that sustained partnerships with development organisations are critical to bridging the skills gap, expanding opportunities for young Nigerians and increasing youth participation in agriculture and agribusiness.

Earlier, Programme Officer at FAO Nigeria, Mr. Tofiq Braimah, said the initiative was designed to position youths as active contributors to national development through agriculture.

Braimah described young people as the backbone of every nation, noting that increased investment in youth participation in agriculture would enhance food security, create jobs and support sustainable economic growth.

She added that collaboration with the ministry would deepen ongoing efforts to provide Nigerian youths with the skills, resources and opportunities needed to thrive in agriculture and related enterprises.

WorldSDGsOrganization Calls on Tinubu to Appoint A.A. Zaura Following APC Kano Central Flag Bearership Crisis

The World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, an international organization that operates within the UN member nations with its scope covering the entire SDGs has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to consider the renowned philanthropist, business mogul, and humanitarian, Ambassador Abdussalam Abdulkarim Zaura (A.A. Zaura), for a federal appointment following what the organization described as the unfortunate deprivation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Kano Central Senatorial District flag bearership.

In a statement issued by the organization, today 16th May, 2026, signed by it’s Head of Administration, Dr. Emmanuel Daudu, it praised A.A. Zaura for his outstanding humanitarian contributions, community development initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and sustainable economic support across Kano State, Nigeria, and Africa at large.

According to the organization, A.A. Zaura has consistently demonstrated uncommon dedication to humanity and grassroots development, earning admiration from different sectors of society due to his unwavering commitment to uplifting the less privileged.

The statement highlighted several of his humanitarian achievements, including the distribution of over 200 vehicles to support individuals and communities, the donation of more than 1,000 motorcycles aimed at empowering youths and improving livelihoods, and the installation and provision of over 150 electricity transformers across communities to improve power supply and stimulate economic activities.

The organization further noted that A.A. Zaura has organized vocational and skills acquisition training programs across Kano State and the federation as a whole, creating opportunities for self-reliance among youths and women. It added that his women empowerment initiatives have significantly contributed to poverty alleviation, economic inclusion, and sustainable community development.

The organization also disclosed that following a report from its Political and Peace Desk, crises reportedly erupted in parts of Kano Central Senatorial District after A.A. Zaura was denied the APC flag bearership, leading to unrest and unfortunate loss of lives.

According to the statement, the Political and Peace Desk of the organization expressed serious concern over the development, stressing that democracy cannot thrive in the absence of peace.

The organization explained that the absence of peace directly threatens the realization of Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. It further stated that continued instability and violence also threaten human existence and societal harmony, thereby affecting Goal 15, Life on Land.

It noted that these goals are represented within the organization through dedicated agencies headed by Directors and Deputy Directors who continuously monitor developments relating to peace, justice, human sustainability, and societal stability across communities.

“In view of these concerns, the organization believes it has become necessary to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene by considering A.A. Zaura for a federal appointment as a strategic step toward calming tensions and restoring confidence among the people of Kano Central Senatorial District,” the statement read.

Despite the political circumstances surrounding the APC Kano Central Senatorial District flag bearership, the organization commended A.A. Zaura for remaining loyal and committed to the unity and progress of the party.

It further acknowledged his continued support for the second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as well as his unwavering backing of the incumbent Governor of Kano State, describing his actions as a demonstration of political maturity, loyalty, and dedication to democratic governance and national development.

The organization maintained that appointing A.A. Zaura into a strategic federal position would not only recognize his immense contributions to national development but would also encourage humanitarian service, youth empowerment, and grassroots development in Nigeria.

The statement concluded by advising the Federal Government to carefully consider the loyalty, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment of A.A. Zaura to the APC, the administration, and the Nigerian people, adding that his dedication deserves appreciation beyond measure.

It added that granting him a federal appointment would serve as a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to society and the nation at large while also promoting peace and stability in Kano Central Senatorial District.

FRC Adopts 2026 Reform Roadmap, Eyes Key Oversight Role In Nigeria’s New Tax Regime

By Maryam Aminu

The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has adopted a comprehensive Output Calendar Roadmap for 2026, signaling a fresh push to strengthen fiscal discipline, transparency, and oversight as Nigeria prepares to implement a new tax regime.

The resolution was reached at the end of the Commission’s three-day 2026 Management Retreat held at Zuma Rock Resort along the Abuja-Kaduna Road, where management officials approved strategies aimed at repositioning the agency for improved institutional performance and accountability.

Speaking at the close of the retreat, the Acting Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Barrister Charles Chukwuemeka Abana, described the gathering as a defining moment for the Commission and a major milestone in its reform drive.

Abana said the retreat provided an opportunity for reflection, collaboration, and strategic planning to enable the Commission effectively discharge its mandate under the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007.

He disclosed that the Commission would play a critical oversight and accountability role in the implementation of Nigeria’s emerging tax reforms, stressing the need for stronger institutional capacity to meet the challenges ahead.

“In view of this enormous oversight function by the Commission, we have to develop capacity and prepare ourselves for the daunting challenges ahead. This is part of why we are here,” he said.

The Acting Chairman explained that the newly approved Strategic Plan would enhance monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, deepen stakeholder engagement, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and deploy technology to improve operational efficiency.

According to him, the reform agenda is designed to make the Commission more proactive, innovative, and results-driven in promoting prudent management of public resources.

He described the retreat theme, “Strengthening Institutional Performance through the Implementation of the Commission’s New Strategic Plan,” as a reflection of the Commission’s determination to reposition itself for greater national impact.

“The Strategic Plan is not simply a policy document; it is a roadmap for institutional transformation, a framework for measurable progress, and a guide for achieving sustainable results in the discharge of our responsibilities,” Abana stated.

The FRC boss also unveiled the Commission’s new Vision and Mission statements aimed at driving its renewed institutional direction.
The Vision, according to him, is “To be Nigeria’s leading fiscal authority ensuring transparent, accountable, and sustainable fiscal governance for national development,” while the Mission is “To promote fiscal integrity through evidential oversight in revenue, expenditure and debt management decisions for efficient service delivery.”

He noted that sessions during the retreat focused on improving compliance monitoring, staff productivity, innovation, and institutional coordination, while presentations exposed participants to modern tools in process improvement, digital transformation, and emerging Artificial Intelligence applications within the fiscal ecosystem.

Abana commended the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC), International IDEA, and BudgIT for supporting the retreat, describing their partnership as instrumental to its success.

The retreat ended with a call on staff to embrace professionalism, teamwork, integrity, and innovation in implementing the Commission’s new strategic direction.

The statement was signed by Bede Ogueri Anyanwu, Head of the Strategic Communications Directorate of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission.