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Nigeria, EU Set to Deepen Defence and Security Cooperation — Minister Badaru

Nigeria and the European Union (EU) are set to strengthen their collaboration in defence and security, as both parties explore new avenues to address shared challenges, including terrorism and banditry.

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar emphasized the importance of enhancing the strategic relationship between Nigeria and the EU during a courtesy visit by Mr. Casmin Dirban, Director of the Peace Partnership and Crisis Management Department at the European External Action Service (EEAS), Brussels.

Speaking at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House in Abuja, Minister Badaru underscored the need for deeper engagement and a deliberate effort to broaden areas of cooperation in defence and security.

He noted that stronger partnerships are essential in the ongoing fight against terrorism and transnational threats.

Mr. Dirban, who was accompanied by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Samuela Isopi, acknowledged the strong foundations of bilateral cooperation and reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s security architecture through enhanced collaboration and dialogue.

The high-level meeting marks a renewed commitment by both parties to work together towards regional peace, stability, and sustainable development.

CIPMN President Raises Alarm Over Attempted Hijack, Fraudulent Activities

Emmanuel Daudu

In a powerful and emotional address on Monday, Dr. Mrs. Victoria Okoronkwo, President and Founder of the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN), sounded the alarm over what she described as a “coordinated and sustained attack” on the very soul of the Institute she founded.

Speaking at a press conference held in Abuja, Dr. Okoronkwo detailed a disturbing sequence of events involving impersonation, financial fraud, and the hijack attempt of CIPMN’s identity and digital infrastructure allegedly orchestrated by a former Registrar, Mr. Henry Ifeanyi Mbadiwe, and a group of collaborators.

According to her, the trouble began in 2019 when she appointed Mr. Mbadiwe, then based in the UK, as the pioneer Registrar of CIPMN. What began as a hopeful partnership soon turned into betrayal.

“He began misusing his office, organizing fake trainings, issuing unauthorized certificates, and misleading the public,” Dr. Okoronkwo explained.

A court ruling in December 2020 (SUIT NO: CV/125/19) removed Mr. Mbadiwe from his position, and a formal letter from the Governing Council followed in June 2021. Yet, she said, he continued to unlawfully present himself as Registrar, allegedly conducting parallel operations under CIPMN’s name.

Dr. Okoronkwo named three other individuals Jamilu Isa Yankwashi, Hajara Yusuf, and Chief Emmanuel Olabode Afolayan as co-conspirators in what she described as “a brazen attempt to hijack the Institute.” Particularly alarming was Mr. Yankwashi’s self-declaration as President of CIPMN in June 2023, despite his tenure having ended days earlier.

The situation escalated when the group allegedly tried to hijack the Institute’s website and domain, even intimidating the web hosting company while issuing fake legal documents. “It was a desperate move to delegitimize our operations,” she said.

But the most shocking revelations came with the allegations of financial misconduct.

Dr. Okoronkwo presented evidence of fraudulent financial requests, including one for N1.8 billion and another for N150 million, made by a self-proclaimed “Sole Administrator” of the Institute. She also highlighted an incomplete project worth over N11 million, for which payment had been made but delivery never fulfilled.

Despite a standing court injunction (NO: FHC/ABJ/CS/253/2022) barring the group from parading themselves as CIPMN officials, they have allegedly continued their activities unchecked.

A recent publication in The Punch listing fake members prompted an official rebuttal by the Institute in The Guardian.

“CIPMN is not a political platform. It is a professional body founded on integrity, excellence, and accountability,” Dr. Okoronkwo declared, adding that their Establishment Act (No. 3 of 2018) remains the Institute’s legal foundation.

She vowed to restore the Institute’s integrity, working with law enforcement, the judiciary, and regulatory bodies. Efforts are currently underway to reconnect with legitimate members and relaunch credible certification and development programs.

Dr. Okoronkwo ended with a stern warning: “To the impostors your time is up. The law will take its course, and history will remember your betrayal.”

Connected Development Appoints Kunle Babs as Chief Consultant, Global Communications and Advocacy

Maryam Aminu

Connected Development (CODE), Africa’s leading civil society organization driving accountability and social impact, has announced the appointment of Kunle Babs as its new Chief Consultant for Global Communications and Advocacy.

Kunle Babs is a seasoned Video Journalist, Multimedia Producer, and Strategic Communications Specialist with nearly 15 years of international experience. His impressive portfolio includes work with renowned media platforms such as Agence France-Presse (AFP), China Global Television Network (CGTN), France 24, Channel News Asia (CNA), the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), DD India, and Deutsche Welle (DW).

A long-standing ally of CODE, Kunle has previously served as a media trainer during the organization’s annual retreats and played a key role in producing documentaries that spotlight CODE’s Follow The Money campaign.

Notably, he produced the award-winning DW documentary, Fighting Eco-Corruption in Nigeria. He was also part of CODE’s international observation mission during the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.

In his new capacity, Kunle will be responsible for spearheading CODE’s global communication strategies, managing media relations, leading strategic advocacy initiatives, and expanding the organization’s brand presence across Africa and the global stage.

Hamzat Lawal, Chief Executive of CODE, expressed excitement about the appointment:
“We are thrilled to welcome Kunle to the team. His expertise in global communications and storytelling will play a vital role in scaling our impact. Kunle brings creativity, professionalism, and a deep understanding of development issues, which aligns perfectly with CODE’s vision.”

Reflecting on their professional journey, Lawal added:
“I have known and worked closely with Kunle for nearly a decade. His passion, commitment, and exceptional storytelling skills continue to inspire me. Beyond his technical abilities, Kunle understands the heart of our mission giving voice to the marginalized. That makes all the difference.”

Kunle holds a B.A. in English, a Postgraduate Diploma in Filmmaking and Television Production, and is currently pursuing an MBA in Media Leadership at the University of Cumbria, UK.

Speaking on his appointment, Kunle said:
“I am honored to join Connected Development and excited to contribute to its mission of empowering marginalized communities through advocacy and innovation. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at CODE to amplify its impact and global influence.”

Nigeria, Pakistan Deepen Defence Ties Badaru Calls for Strategic Collaboration

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has called for greater defence collaboration between Nigeria and Pakistan, highlighting Pakistan’s cost-effective counter-terrorism strategies as a model worthy of emulation.

The Minister made this statement during a meeting with a high-level Pakistani delegation led by General Shahir Shamsad at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja.

He emphasized Nigeria’s interest in leveraging Pakistan’s experience in tackling terrorism and developing indigenous military technology.

“Pakistan has effectively addressed the challenges of terrorism and IEDs using local technology and affordable drones,” Badaru noted, stressing the need for partnerships based on mutual benefit rather than conditional aid. “Our countries share common challenges and strategic interests, and our long-standing relationship provides a strong base to expand collaboration.”

The Minister also pointed to the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) as a key area for future cooperation, with an eye on enhancing Nigeria’s capacity for local defence manufacturing and innovation, particularly in drone technology.

In response, General Shahir Shamsad praised the progress made by DICON in indigenous military production and acknowledged Nigeria’s growing influence in Africa.

He affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deeper cooperation, describing Nigeria as a critical strategic partner in the region.

“This partnership can bring tangible benefits to both countries, especially in the areas of defence technology and training,” Shamsad said.

RMAFC Chairman Leads Delegation to Console Katsina State Governor Over Mother’s Passing…Extols Late Hajiya Safara’u as Pillar of Strength Behind Governor Radda’s Leadership

Maryam Aminu

In a heartfelt show of solidarity, the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, led a distinguished delegation on a condolence visit to the Katsina State Governor, His Excellency Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, following the passing of his beloved mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Barebari.

The high-powered delegation arrived in Katsina to express their deepest sympathies and reinforce the Commission’s support for the Governor and the people of Katsina State during this time of mourning.

During the visit, Dr. Shehu described the late matriarch as “a devoted servant of Allah, a nurturing mother, and a pillar of strength,” noting that her virtues were clearly reflected in Governor Radda’s exemplary leadership.

He recalled that while he was on pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia at the time of her passing, his thoughts and prayers remained firmly with the bereaved family.

“Though separated by distance, our hearts were with you,” Dr. Shehu said. “We pray that Almighty Allah grants her Aljannah Firdaus and blesses your family and the good people of Katsina State with the strength to bear this profound loss.”

6th left; RMAFC Chairman, Dr. M.B Shehu OFR, 7th left; H.E Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, Executive Governor of Katsina state, in a group photograph during the visit.

Governor Radda expressed heartfelt gratitude for the visit, emphasizing the deep sense of national unity it conveyed. “Your presence here speaks volumes,” he said. “It reflects not only institutional respect but also the compassion and shared humanity that unite us as Nigerians.”

He further lauded the Commission’s members, congratulating both newly appointed and returning representatives while charging them to remain steadfast in their commitment to integrity and national service.

The Chairman’s delegation included Hon. Kabir Mashi (Katsina State), Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka (Kwara State), Hajiya Salamatu Muhammed Bala (Adamawa State), Hon. Ntufam Eyo-Nsa (Cross River State), Hon. Hakeem Akintayo Amosun (Ogun State), Hon. Ekene Enefe (Anambra State), Secretary to the Commission Engr. Joseph Nweze Okechukwu, and Director of Protocol Mr. Collins Woffa.

This visit not only underscored the Commission’s empathy but also reaffirmed its commitment to national cohesion and service rooted in compassion.

Aikonic Property and Homes Redefines Affordable luxury Housing

By Emmanuel Daudu

A Nigerian real estate giant, Aikonic Property and Homes said it is working on a new project located in River Park Estate along Airport Road Abuja and many other owned estate projects across the federation are aimed at providing affordable luxury housing to make high end living accessible to more people

According to the Chief Executive Officer,
Mr. Ike Christian O., in a press release made available to newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday, the project will offer a range of luxury amenities, including swimming pools, gyms, community parks, spacious living areas, modern kitchens, comfortable bedrooms with sustainable design principles to minimize environmental impact and reduce energy costs.

“The project is located in a prime area of Abuja, with easy access to major roads, schools, and shopping centers. Aikonic Property and Homes’ focus on affordable luxury housing. Our amazing work disrupts the traditional real estate market, making high-end living more accessible to a wider range of buyers. The project’s innovative design and luxury amenities are likely to generate significant interest and demand from buyers looking for high-end living options.The project may set a new benchmark for affordable luxury and innovative housing in Nigeria, pushing other developers to rethink their approach to high-end living.

“Aikonic Property and Homes’ focuses on customer needs and preferences and thus, expected to drive innovation and growth in the real estate sector. We deliver high-quality homes and amenities, setting a new standard for the industry.

While speaking on the company, the CEO, Mr. Ike Christian O. stated that the vision statement of the company is “To be the leading provider of innovative, sustainable, and a unique lifestyle experience. creating a lasting impact on the lives of our residents and the communities we serve.”

“Also, our mission statement is that, “At Aikonic Properties and Homes, our mission is to design, build, and deliver healthy lifestyle communities with elegance and a knack for perfection. while prioritizing sustainability, Equity and quality of life.
We strive to create spaces that inspire connection, wellness, and joy, and to build lasting relationships with our customers, partners, and stakeholders”, even as our core values are; Innovation: We embrace new ideas and technologies to stay ahead of the curve. Sustainability: We prioritize environmentally responsible practices in all aspects of our business. Quality: We deliver exceptional homes that meet the highest standards of design, construction, and customer service. Community: We foster connections and relationships with our residents, partners, and stakeholders.Integrity: We operate with transparency, honesty, and ethics in all our interactions”.

While speaking about the company’s social corporate responsibility, he disclosed that Aikonic Property and Homes in recent time has visited Virtuous Widows Association Nigeria, Chino Foundation with lots of funds donation to careter for its humanitarian projects.

Badaru Hails DEPOWA College Project as a Pillar of Nation-Building

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has lauded the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) College Project as a powerful testament to the role of military and police families in national development.

Speaking at the groundbreaking and fundraising ceremony held in Abuja, the Minister described the event as a historic milestone that reflects a collective vision for a stronger, more unified Nigeria.

“It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I join you today to celebrate this momentous occasion,” he said. “This initiative embodies the unwavering commitment of our military and police families to nation-building, and I commend DEPOWA for its visionary leadership in championing this noble cause.”

Underscoring the transformative power of education, Badaru emphasized the long-term impact the college will have on the children of service members. “Education is the bedrock of societal progress. This college will serve as a beacon of hope, excellence, and opportunity. By investing in the future of these children, we honor the sacrifices of their parents and reinforce the foundation of our national security.”

He also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to seeing the project through. “The Ministry of Defence stands in solidarity with DEPOWA and pledges its full support to ensure the timely completion of this project,” Badaru stated, calling on government agencies, the private sector, and well-meaning Nigerians to support the initiative.

The Minister praised the resilience and compassion of DEPOWA and its partners. “To our donors and partners, your generosity will resonate through generations. Together, we shall build an institution that nurtures future leaders, innovators, and patriots.”

The DEPOWA College Project aims to provide quality education within a structured, value-driven environment for the children of military and police personnel, advancing both academic and moral excellence.

Tour Operators Withdraw from 2025 Hajj, Allege Mismanagement and Favoritism by NAHCON

Maryam Aminu

Three licensed Hajj tour operators Travel Express Ltd, An-Noor Air Services and Tours Ltd, and Positive Trends Travel and Tours Ltd have announced their withdrawal from participation in the 2025 Hajj exercise, citing alleged irregularities, mismanagement, and unethical practices by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

In a detailed statement released by the signatories Usman A. Ambursa, Haruna Isma’il, and Ikrimah Muhammad the operators accused NAHCON of engaging in “Machiavellian” tactics, sidelining private tour operators, and promoting vested interests at the expense of Nigerian pilgrims.

“Our decision to withdraw was driven by our commitment to a clean, transparent, and pilgrim-focused Hajj operation,” the statement read. “Unfortunately, NAHCON’s current approach appears to prioritize personal and political interests over service delivery and accountability.”

The conflict reportedly began after the 2024 Hajj, during which the operators claim to have secured a favorable agreement with long-standing Saudi service provider, Ithra’a Al Joud. The company had allegedly provided exceptional services to Nigerian pilgrims under the supervision of the Association of Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON).

Encouraged by Ithra’a’s transparency, refund compliance, and competitive pricing, the three tour operators submitted a contract proposal to NAHCON for the 2025 Hajj. The contract was signed by the NAHCON Chairman in January but was later undermined, according to the operators.

“Just two days after the contract was signed, the Chairman asked us to remove the Tent A VIP service segment, citing that NAHCON had already allocated it to another service provider, Rawaf Mina,” the group claimed.

The operators insist that NAHCON’s direct involvement in marketing premium services to VIPs and state governments traditionally the purview of private tour companies represents a breach of role and unfair competition.

They further allege that NAHCON pressured other tour operators to switch to Rawaf Mina by delaying procurement approvals for Ithra’a and blocking access to essential platforms, such as the visa processing portal

“Despite Ithra’a offering a more favorable package reducing its Tent D+ economy price to 3,490 Saudi Riyals NAHCON refused to formally release this offer to the public,” the operators said. “Instead, they used their influence to discredit Ithra’a and intimidate tour operators.”

As a result, only one lead company reportedly stood by Ithra’a, but was subsequently denied access to camp bookings and an independent IBAN account allegedly in retaliation.

The three signatories say they too were denied the opportunity to select a lead company for this year’s Hajj because of their insistence on transparency and choice.

The tour operators say their withdrawal is not an act of protest but a stand for reform.

“Our goal remains simple: to ensure a Hajj operation that puts the pilgrim first, free from exploitation, and committed to service quality,” they said.

They promised to release a follow-up statement to expose the financial breakdown of Hajj packages and the alleged misuse of pilgrims’ funds to “finance the jamboree of NAHCON officials and cronies.”

Tour Operators Withdraw From 2025 HAJJ: Accuse NAHCON Of Opaque Pravtices, Call For Reforms

Maryam Aminu

Three leading Hajj tour operators have formally announced their withdrawal from participating in the 2025 Hajj operations, citing systemic corruption, lack of transparency, and disregard for the rights of Nigerian pilgrims by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

In a strongly worded joint statement released by Positive Trends Travel and Tours Ltd (Kaduna), Travel Express Ltd (Abuja), and An-Noor Air Services and Tours Ltd (Kano), the companies accused NAHCON of monopolizing service contracts, denying licensed operators the right to negotiate on behalf of their clients, and fostering an environment where pilgrim welfare is consistently compromised.

The CEOs, all veterans of the Hajj and Umrah industry with over 90 years of combined experience, said their decision was made in protest against entrenched self-interest within the Commission. “We have devoted our lives to the service of pilgrims, and this action is not one of abandonment but of protest,” said Ikramah Muhammad, CEO of Positive Trends and Deputy President (Hajj Affairs) of the Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON).

According to the statement, previous efforts to reform the service delivery system including requests for tour operators to independently select and negotiate with Hajj service providers were ignored or met with hostility.

The tour operators explained that their grievances date back to the tenure of former NAHCON Chairman Barr. Zikrullahi Kunle Hassan, who had agreed in principle to reforms following the poor 2023 Hajj experience. However, subsequent administrations, including the current board led by Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, have allegedly reversed any progress made, pushing for full central control over service negotiations.

“The current NAHCON board has taken a Machiavellian approach bent on silencing dissenting voices and weakening AHUON,” said Haruna Isma’il, Vice President (Kano zone), who co-signed the release.

The operators outlined several issues plaguing Hajj operations in Nigeria:

Lack of transparency in cost breakdowns for services such as accommodation, transportation, and catering in Saudi Arabia.

Conflict of interest, with NAHCON allegedly profiting from unaccounted negotiations while passing inflated or deflated costs to pilgrims.

Systematic exclusion of tour operators from key decisions, despite being the direct service providers to thousands of pilgrims.

They also claimed that service providers offer inducements to NAHCON officials including cash, hotel stays, and gifts in a bid to win contracts, further compromising the integrity of the system.

Citing the administration’s commitment to free-market reforms, the operators called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and restructure NAHCON’s role.

“We urge the government to separate regulation from operation. NAHCON should serve as a watchdog, not a service vendor,” said Ambursa A. Usman, Vice President (Abuja zone) of AHUON.

They described the current system as a failed project, warning that continued suppression of industry stakeholders will only perpetuate hardship for Nigerian pilgrims.

The operators announced that this was the first in a three-part series aimed at exposing the financial and operational flaws within NAHCON. Future statements, they said, will provide detailed financial analyses of Hajj costs and expose the “recklessness” behind inflated charges borne by pilgrims.

“As businessmen of integrity, we are ready to stake our reputations to demand justice for pilgrims and reform for the industry,” the statement concluded.

CONYSSA Celebrates Young Philanthropist, Mrs. Titilope Oguntade Oladele, for Her Impactful Humanitarian Contributions

Maryam Aminu

The Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has commended the outstanding contributions of Mrs. Titilope Victoria Oguntade Oladele, an American-based philanthropist, for her unwavering commitment to uplifting communities and inspiring young women through her selfless humanitarian work.

Despite her young age, Mrs. Oladele has emerged as a beacon of hope for individuals, groups, and communities especially in the Ibarapa region of Oyo State, where she hails from.

Her organization, TOOL Community Development Initiative, is a non-governmental body committed to community development, education, empowerment, and humanitarian services.

The Director General of CONYSSA, Amb. Ade Mario Emmanuel, praised Mrs. Titilope for choosing a decent and impactful lifestyle, urging young girls to emulate her values.

“If every young woman builds a skill and commits to personal development, we will significantly reduce the rate at which girls fall into harmful lifestyles such as transactional relationships or ‘runs’, which continue to claim innocent lives,” Amb. Emmanuel stated.

He emphasized that hard work, self-worth, and service to others remain the pillars of a meaningful life, and Mrs. Oladele exemplifies these qualities.

Short Profile:

Mrs. Titilope Victoria Oguntade Oladele is a compassionate humanitarian and President of TOOL Community Development Initiative. Her commitment to service is deeply rooted in her desire to bridge the gap for underserved communities in education, healthcare, and empowerment.

She holds multiple academic degrees, including:

Associate of Science in Allied Health, Kingsborough College, NYC

Associate of Science in Nursing, AMG College of Nursing, New York

Bachelor of Arts in Biology, Brooklyn College, NYC

Master of Arts in Community Health, Brooklyn College, NYC

Her efforts have earned her several notable recognitions including:

Humanitarian Award of the Year, 2024 Pacesetter Entertainment & Recognition Awards

Most Outstanding Humanitarian & Entrepreneur Guru, 2024 Ogo Yoruba Awards

Special Recognition Award, Eruwa Youth Awards by Neyochin Events & Oyo State Ministry of Youth & Sports

Mrs. Oladele continues to inspire a new generation of women to lead lives of purpose, dignity, and service.

Mrs. Titilope Victoria Oguntade Oladele, an American-based philanthropist