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Defence Minister Visits Plateau Community, Reaffirms FG’s Commitment to End Violence

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammad Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, on Sunday visited the Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State in the wake of recent violent attacks that claimed several lives and left many injured.

The Minister, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, was received by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Folusho Oyilola.

During the visit, the Defence Minister offered prayers and condolences to grieving families, while also sympathizing with those injured in the attacks. “It is imperative that we put an end to the cycle of violence that has plagued this region,” he stated.

Badaru conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s deep concern over the ongoing security challenges in Plateau State. “Mr. President has directed that all perpetrators of these heinous acts must be brought to justice,” he said. “Security agencies, including the GOC and other operatives, have assured me of their unwavering commitment to this task.”

The Minister highlighted the federal government’s collaborative efforts with Plateau State authorities to establish long-term preventive structures aimed at restoring peace.

He emphasized the crucial role of community involvement, urging local leaders to engage actively in intelligence-sharing to support security operations.

“It is essential to recognize the ongoing efforts being made. While the geographical landscape is vast and the communities are dispersed, I am confident that through intelligence sharing, the involvement of community elders, persistent prayers, and the unwavering commitment of Mr. President, we will address the root causes of this crisis,” he concluded.

The Defence Minister’s visit underscores the federal government’s resolve to tackle insecurity in the region and bring lasting peace to affected communities.

Birthday Anniversary: UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu VC CUICI, USA Celebrates Amuda-Kannike SAN AsLegal ICON Clocks 66

UNESCO Laureate and Vice-Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA, has congratulated a renowned Professor of Law, Professor Amuda-Kannike SAN as the legal ICON today celebrates his Birthday Anniversary in grand-style as Aremu applauded the renowned Professor for his great achievements as legal luminary, uncommon exploits and contributions to global legal sector development.

CUICI VC, World Distinguished Universities Research Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu made this known to the media today being on Saturday, April 19, 2025 in a press statement made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State by Aremu’s Executive Assistant on Media, Publicity and Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as Aremu wishes Amuda-Kannike SAN long life and prosperity.

The VC who appreciated God for adding another year to Prof Amuda-Kannike’s age, then commended the Nigerian born Professor of Law as one of Nigeria’s finest Senior Advocate for his great, positive impacts, legacy in the field of Constitutional & International Jurisprudence which he said Amuda-Kannike had left great footprints in the global legal sector. UNESCO Laureate who then prayed to God to give Amuda-Kannike SAN more wisdom, understanding and sound health. That God continue his hands of protection, bless him the more so that he can continue to be a great blessings to Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.

The statement by UNESCO Laureate reads in parts: “Today is a remarkable day of celebration as a king rejoices in the lord. I wish you happy birthday Anniversary as you celebration today! My prayers for you Prof Amuda-Kannike is long life, prosperity and abundant blessings to you and your family, in the name of Almighty Allah, Amen!!”

“Prpf Amuda-Kannike, indeed you are a great blessing to Nigerian people, Africa and the entire world. You possesses the 21st Century skills for global legal sector education. I wish you a glorious, happy and prosperous Birthday Anniversary Celebration my brother and friend SAN!! Prof Amuda-Kannike, I say a big congratulations to you once again as you mark your auspicious Birthday Anniversary Celebration today in Grand-style”.

“Amuda-Kannike SAN is a Distinguished Educator, Professor of Law, legal ICON and astute administrator who received NOUN’s Law Graduates Special Awards on his contributions to their struggle for the admission of the University to Nigeria Law School. He started his Legal practice with a Legal firm, E.C. Ukala, (SAN) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

“I, UNESCO Laureate & VC CUICI, USA uses this medium to commend you, Prof Abiodun Amuda-Kannike (SAN), Professor of Jurisprudence, Public & International Law on your recent KWASU, Melete 14Th Inauguration Lectures as delivered by you under the distinguished Chairmanship of the Ag. Vice Chancellor, Prof Shaykh Lugman Jimoh on 8th May, 2024. Prof Amuda-Kannike (SAN) Life Fellow of International Chartered World Learned Society is a global legal luminary with expertise in Jurisprudence and international law, an exceptional world educator who had contributed to global legal sector development through uncommon research”.

“I commend you for advancing solutions to the technicalities of Jurisprudence, the Rule of Law as regards the dilemma of Nigerian constitution. I must commend your recent research that provided deep understanding of Jurisprudence and Rule of Law Technicalities. The rule of law means equality before the law. All institutions,

“I urge you to use your expertise towards preferring solutions to the technicalities of Jurisprudence, the rule of law as regards Nigerian constitution for best possible reforms in the legal sector. No doubt, you have contributed to the development of Law Faculty, Departments in Nigerian Universities. I Congratulate you today as you mark your Birthday Anniversary in Grand-style. I commend your continuous love for education and rendering of more service to humanity which is still part of you as a great man and humility personified”.

UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu submitted some of the proposals to VC Minaret Int’l University Ikirun Osun State Nigeria

As part of effort to Set Up Quality Assurance in the First newly approved established Minaret University Ikirun Osun State Nigeria owned by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community world wide,
UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has submitted some proposals to Professor Abdul Rahman Abdullah
The Vice Chancellor,
Minaret International University in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria, which is a pioneering faith-based institution that combines Islamic principles with modern education. Established by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, it’s the first university globally owned by this Ahmadiyya Muslim community world wide, Here’s what we know about the university ¹ ²:

Founding: The foundation-laying ceremony took place on March 9, 2021, in Ikirun, with attendees from across Nigeria and beyond.
Approval: The university was recently approved by President Bola Tinubu on March 3, 2025, after rigorous accreditation processes by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

MINARET UNIVERSITY TAKE-OFF PROGRAMS

Faculty of Science and Computing

(1) Department of Computing

B.Sc. Computer Science
B.Sc. Cyber Security
B.Sc. Data Science
B.Sc. Information Technology Faculty of Management and Social Sciences

(1) Department of Accounting and Economics

B.Sc. Accounting
B.Sc. Economics

(2) Business Administration, Management and Marketing

B.Sc. Business Administration
B.Sc. Marketing
B.Sc. Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Philosophy: The institution aims to produce well-rounded graduates who are job creators, ethical leaders, and global citizens, integrating moral discipline, practical entrepreneurship training, research excellence, and community service.

Leadership: Professor Abdul Rahman Abdullah, formerly of Babcock University, has been appointed as the pioneer Vice Chancellor.
Support: The university has received support from stakeholders, including the Osun State Government, NUC, traditional leadership of Ikirun, and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide.

Some notable events and figures associated with the university include ³ ²:

CUICI VC’s Support: The First African UNESCO Laureate Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, Vice-Chancellor of Crown University International Chartered Inc.in USA which is teaching and research Hospital Campuses are located in Santa Cruz Province Argentina South America Spain and Brazil with official constituent Campuses at government regulated universities world wide and online operations has promised support for the university’s mission and vision.
Osun State Government: Governors Rauf Aregbesola, Adegboyega Oyetola, and Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke have played significant roles in the university’s establishment.
Community Involvement: The Ikirun community and Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria: and globally have been instrumental in bringing the university to fruition.

Concerned Christian Youths Forum Condemns Benue, Plateau Killings, Commiserate With The People

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum stand in vehement and outright condemnation of the ongoing carnage in Plateau and Benue states. This relentless onslaught against innocent civilians by lawless bandits is an affront on natural justice and a gross violation of the sanctity and dignity of human life.
This human carnage must stop. The perpetrators of these atrocious acts must be brought to justice. All innocent and peace-lobing people of this nation must enjoy the safety and security they deserve.

The Government must take swift and decisive action to arrest these barbaric attacks, and ensure that the affected communities receive the support and assistance they require to heal and rebuild. The time for action is now.

While we commend the effort of our security agencies, we ask that they redouble their effort to nip this menace in a bud.
To the gallant men and women of our security agencies, we extend our utmost gratitude for your tireless dedication and sacrifice in the service of our nation. Your courage and commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of our citizens are an inspiration to us all.

Despite the formidable challenges that you face, we implore you to continue to work with unwavering determination to eradicate this existential threat, not just to communities under attack, but to the corporate existence and survival of our dear nation. The safety and well-being of our people, being constitutionally committed you as a sacred duty, must be guaranteed at all times.
Together, let us summon the strength and courage to swiftly bring this crisis to an end.

God Bless The Federal Republic of Nigeria

James Paul Adama
Convener, Concerned Christian Youth Forum
Abuja Nigeria.

RMAFC Chairman Reaffirms Support for Local Government Autonomy

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has restated the Commission’s firm commitment to financial autonomy for local governments across Nigeria, calling grassroots governance a cornerstone of national development.

Dr. Shehu made the statement during a courtesy visit by the Director General of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Barr. Evan Enekwe, who led a delegation to the RMAFC Headquarters in Abuja.

“We have always been on record as a Commission that strongly advocates for Local Government financial autonomy,” Dr. Shehu said. “The recent Supreme Court judgment affirming this autonomy is a victory not just for ALGON but for the nation. Development truly begins at the grassroots, and without empowered local governments, our national aspirations will continue to lag.”

He announced plans to re-establish a committee of Commissioners drawn from each state to liaise with stakeholders and support the implementation of the Supreme Court’s ruling. “We will continue to advocate and talk to stakeholders to see this through,” he added.

Dr. Shehu also pledged the Commission’s support for ALGON’s initiatives, including its upcoming National Sustainable Grassroots Development Conference scheduled for April 29–30, 2025.

L-R: Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu and Barr. Evan Enekwe

In her remarks, Barr. Evan Enekwe expressed appreciation for the Commission’s longstanding position on local government empowerment. “Increased revenue allocation to local governments is not just necessary it is urgent,” she said. “Financial autonomy and improved funding will accelerate development at the grassroots. We thank RMAFC and other progressive institutions for championing this cause.”

She also emphasized the need for lasting reforms in revenue sharing. “For over 20 years, the conversation has remained the same, and it is time for real change,” she said.

Commissioners of the RMAFC also voiced their support for stronger collaboration with ALGON. Hon. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba Haruna (Kebbi State), recalled her work at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), where she co-authored a policy paper on strengthening local governance. Similarly, Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka (Kwara State), lamented the erosion of local government powers by state governments, stating, “Today, most local governments exist only in theory. Their powers have been hijacked by governors.”

Other members of the ALGON delegation included Salawu Nuhu Ozigi, FCA (Director of Finance and Accounts), Lawal Ibrahim (Director, Admin & Human Resources), Obiora Orji (Head of Media and Publicity), and Lateefa Isah (Principal Consultant on the Sustainable Grassroots Development Programme).

NSIPA Urges Staff to Leverage Technology for Improved Social Interventions

Emmanuel Daudu

The National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Associate Professor Badamasi Lawal, PhD, has called on staff members participating in a digital training workshop to embrace technology as a tool for enhancing the delivery of social investment initiatives across Nigeria.

Speaking at the opening of a three-day training organized by NSIPA’s Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) in collaboration with Frontier Systems Limited, Dr. Lawal underscored the importance of digital transformation in achieving the agency’s mandate.

The event, held at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja, was themed “Improving Beneficiary Outcomes with Digital Solutions.”

“This training marks not only the beginning of a new learning initiative but also a renewed commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusive development,” Dr. Lawal stated. “At NSIPA, our mandate is clear: to deliver impactful, evidence-driven social interventions that uplift the lives of millions of Nigerians, particularly those in vulnerable populations, in alignment with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-point agenda includes the implementation of social welfare programmes to reduce poverty and support the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.

Highlighting the role of GEEP in driving financial inclusion, Dr. Lawal stressed the programme’s commitment to empowering petty traders, artisans, smallholder farmers, women, and youth.

He pointed to the GEEP Dashboard as a cornerstone of this effort a digital tool that enables real-time tracking, analysis, and management of beneficiary data.

“Behind every data point on the dashboard is a real individual a mother, trader, farmer, or young entrepreneur relying on NSIPA to deliver hope and opportunity,” he added.

Also speaking at the workshop, Mrs. Ifeoma Chukwumbah, Acting Head of GEEP, reaffirmed the programme’s mission to expand access to financial support through initiatives such as TraderMoni, MarketMoni, and FarmerMoni. These initiatives, she noted, have already impacted millions by providing capital and support for sustainable livelihoods.

Mrs. Chukwumbah said the training is part of efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency across NSIPA’s interventions. “This training reflects our commitment to utilizing data and digital tools to better serve our beneficiaries,” she said. “It will build our digital capacity and equip us to deliver, monitor, and evaluate our interventions more effectively.”

The workshop is expected to empower NSIPA staff with the technical know-how and digital tools necessary for better programme implementation and improved outcomes for beneficiaries nationwide.

Defence Minister Meets With Service Chiefs On National Security Strategy

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, held a high-level operational briefing today with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Service Chiefs at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Abuja to assess and address the current national security situation.

The session provided a comprehensive review of the security challenges facing various regions of the country, including the North East, Plateau State, North West, North Central, and South East areas grappling with insurgency, banditry, and communal unrest.

The Armed Forces presented updates on ongoing operations, intelligence coordination, inter-agency collaboration, and resource deployment efforts.

Special attention was given to Borno and Plateau states, where security concerns have remained acute. Discussions yielded actionable strategies aimed at restoring peace and stability in those regions.

Badaru reiterated his commitment to working closely with the Armed Forces to develop and implement effective, sustainable strategies to overcome Nigeria’s multifaceted security threats.

He also reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s steadfast support for the military, emphasizing the need for intelligence-driven, proactive, and community-focused approaches to defence.

“This operational briefing has given me deeper insight into the realities on the ground and highlighted the tremendous efforts of our armed forces,” the Minister said. “We are determined to support our gallant troops with the tools and policies required to win the fight against insecurity and ensure every Nigerian lives in safety and dignity.”

The meeting marks a continuation of the Ministry’s drive to align strategic defence operations with national security priorities and constitutional mandates to protect lives and property.

UNESCO Laureate Commends Feats As CUICI, USA Presents Certificate of Partnership To IFSGS

The Vice-Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered, USA, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, has said the globally recognized University has presented Certificate of Partnership to Institute of Forensic Science and Global Studies aimed at fostering quality assurance in education and international education.

In a statement today being on Tuesday, 15th April, 2025 personally signed by Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu which was made available to Nigeria media in line with the information on the partnership agreement and certificate of Partnership he Aremu commended development, tasked IFSGS on commitment to objectives.

stated that the key objectives of promoting professionalism, research, education and training, publications, conferences and workshops, community engagement, capacity building, collaboration and Networking as well as advancement of knowledge

According to Prof Aremu, IFSGS as an Institution is duly registered, approved by the Federal Ministry of Education and incorporated in Nigeria with Certificate No. RC 1417303.

He noted that the Institution exists to promote professionalism, integrity, competency, education, fostering of research practice and encouragement of collaboration in the field of Forensic Sciences & Global Studies.

The information on the partnership agreement and certificate of Partnership reads in parts: “To all Whom These Letters Shall Come,Greetings.Certificate of Partnership as Accredited Official Partner. In recognition of superior academic quality, organization integrity and like–mindedness of mission and as documented and described by a signed memorandum of agreement between the Institutions”.

“We hereby acknowledges full and formal Institutional affiliation with Institute of Forensic Science and Global Studies of Nigeria as our Official Partner. In witness whereof we hereby subscribed our names officially with our signatures under the official seal of the university and conferred in the Year of Our Lord on April 11, 2025.

“This is Endorsed by the Registrar, Prof Sir Abhiram Kukshreshtha and and Vice Chancellor in person of His Excellency, The First African UNESCO Laureate, Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu”

“Institute of Forensic Science and Global Studies is an academic or research organization focused on Forensic Sciences and Global Studies. With registration and approval from the Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria, it operates with legitimacy.

“The Key Objectives of the partnership between the two institutions included amongst others are: Promoting Professionalism*: The institution aims to uphold high standards in Forensic Sciences and Global Studies through education and training”.

“One, Fostering Research which encourages research practices and collaboration among professionals and academics in the field”.

“Two, Education and Training which the institutions likely to offer programs and courses to develop skills and knowledge in Forensic Sciences and Global Studies”.

“The Potential Activities between the institutions as highlighted included amongst others are: Research Publications: The institution may publish research findings in academic journals or books”.

“Conferences and Workshops: It could organize conferences, seminars, and workshops to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration”.

“Community Engagement: The institution might engage with the community through outreach programs, public lectures, or awareness campaigns”.

“The Benefits of Partnerships included amongst others are:
Capacity Building: By promoting education and research, the institution contributes to building capacity in Forensic Sciences and Global Studies”.

“Collaboration and Networking: It provides opportunities for professionals and academics to collaborate and network, potentially leading to new research and projects”.

“Advancing Knowledge: The institution’s work could lead to advancements in Forensic Sciences and Global Studies, benefiting society as a whole”.

Nigeria, UNDP Strengthen Democratic Governance in West Africa Through New Regional Partnership

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening democratic governance in West Africa through the Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD). The initiative aims to promote inclusive, accountable, and resilient political systems across the sub-region.

At a high-level meeting in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, hosted the UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah, to review progress and discuss strategic priorities for the RPD. The discussions focused on strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and expanding civic participation across West African nations.

Ambassador Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting regional governance reforms through the African Union, highlighting the need for collaborative action to address challenges facing democratic systems.

He noted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to align national policy with broader regional frameworks to ensure transparency and inclusivity.

“The RPD is an opportunity to drive homegrown, context-specific solutions to democratic challenges, with Nigeria playing a leading operational and political role,” Tuggar said.

The RPD brings together key stakeholders including governments, civil society, academia, youth groups, and development partners to design and implement democratic reforms rooted in African values.

The initiative prioritizes policy dialogue, institutional strengthening, and civic engagement as core strategies to promote good governance and political stability.

UNDP has pledged continued support for the initiative, offering technical assistance, capacity development, and policy expertise to bolster implementation.

Ms. Attafuah reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to scaling the initiative’s impact across West Africa, citing its potential to improve political accountability and citizen participation.

The partnership marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s 4D Foreign Policy Strategy, particularly its Democracy pillar, which seeks to promote constitutional order and rule of law within and beyond its borders.

The RPD will be piloted in select countries across West Africa, with Nigeria providing both strategic leadership and operational support for its rollout.

Cracking Down on Crime: Enugu LG Chairman Clears Forests, Launches Community Protection Squad

Maryam Aminu

In a bold and strategic move to tackle rising insecurity and protect residents from violent ambushes, the Executive Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area in Enugu State, Barrister Chijioke Ezugwu, has launched a comprehensive security operation, starting with the massive clearing of forested areas along major roads notorious for criminal activity.

The operation, carried out over the weekend, aims to dismantle hideouts used by kidnappers and other criminal elements, especially on routes such as Ezukolo, Abbi, Nrobo, and Nimbo roads. These roads have long been plagued by ambushes that not only threaten lives but also disrupt socio-economic activities in the region.

In a statement issued by his media adviser, Chief Kingsley Onyeji, the chairman emphasized that the forest-clearing initiative is a key part of a broader security overhaul designed to improve road safety and restore public confidence.

“By removing overgrown vegetation and ensuring visibility along key travel routes, we are reducing the risk of road ambushes and making travel safer for both residents and visitors,” the statement said.

Complementing this effort is the establishment of Community Farm Protection Squad a proactive measure aimed at safeguarding agricultural zones and enabling farmers to work without fear. These squads are specially trained to prevent farm invasions and crop destruction, enhancing food security and rural stability.

In addition, the chairman has created a Rapid Response Team within the neighborhood watch, equipped with operational vans and modern communication systems.

This team is tasked with swift responses to distress calls and emergency situations, significantly reducing response time and deterring criminal activity.

“The team has proven instrumental in handling emergencies, from violent attacks and robberies to road accidents. Their presence is a major reassurance to the community,” Chief Onyeji added.

Other security initiatives rolled out by the Chairman include:

Recruitment and restructuring of the neighborhood watch

Enhancement of intelligence gathering and surveillance

Procurement of advanced security equipment

Strengthened collaboration with formal security agencies

Community sensitization and active engagement with stakeholders

Ezugwu also issued a strong warning to traditional rulers, urging them to halt all unauthorized land transactions with outsiders, especially those suspected to be fronts for criminal enterprises.

He vowed to deal decisively with any leader found compromising the safety of their people through such engagements.

Since assuming office, Barr. Ezugwu has positioned himself at the forefront of Uzo-Uwani’s security renaissance, adopting innovative and multifaceted strategies to reclaim and secure the community’s agricultural and rural spaces from the grip of violence.

With these bold actions, Uzo-Uwani LGA appears to be charting a new course toward lasting peace and rural development.

The Executive Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area in Enugu State, Barrister Chijioke Ezugwu, addressing the press