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Nigerian Armed Forces Continue Aggressive Campaign Against Terrorists and Criminals Across Multiple Fronts

Maryam Aminu

The Nigerian Armed Forces have sustained their relentless efforts to neutralize insurgents, dismantle criminal networks, and curb illegal activities in several parts of the country, as detailed in the latest operational report from military authorities.

Covering operations from September 24 to October 4, 2024, the report reveals significant breakthroughs in the fight against Boko Haram (BH), Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and other violent extremist groups.

The Director Defense Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba exposed that in the North-East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai made substantial gains against the insurgency, with a total of 77 BH/ISWAP terrorists and their families surrendering across Kukawa and Konduga Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Borno State between September 25 and October 1. These include 7 adult male fighters, 29 women, and 41 children, all of whom turned themselves over to Nigerian forces.

Major Buba expressed that 18 terrorists were neutralized in several confrontations, while troops rescued 42 kidnapped victims, including 24 children. A significant arsenal, comprising 14 AK-47 rifles, 349 rounds of ammunition, and a variety of other weapons, was seized.

In a coordinated air interdiction on September 29, military aircraft struck terrorist positions in the Sambisa Forest, leading to the destruction of key logistics hubs and the elimination of several insurgents. Troops also arrested a Nigerian police officer caught with illegal ammunition, highlighting ongoing efforts to root out collaboration between extremists and corrupt elements within the security forces.

In Plateau and Kaduna States, troops under Operation Safe Haven launched a series of offensive and anti-kidnapping operations, resulting in the arrest of 20 extremists and the neutralization of 3 others.

A high-profile operation in Jos South on September 25 led to the capture of a notorious drug dealer, alongside the recovery of large quantities of cannabis and ₦232,000 in cash.

In the same period, 14 hostages were rescued from kidnappers, and troops seized an auto pistol, a truck full of stolen rail tracks, and two motorcycles from the criminals.

He disclosed that roops under Operation Whirl Stroke achieved significant victories in Taraba and Benue States, including the arrest of a high-profile terrorist leader, Tukura Abdul-Kareem, and 9 of his associates.

The operation, which took place in Ardo Kola LGA on September 29, also led to the capture of 2 AK-47 rifles and 363 rounds of ammunition. Additional raids in Nasarawa State uncovered 303 rounds of illegal ammunition and large quantities of illicit drugs.

Also in the North-West, Operation Hadarin Daji made impressive headway, neutralizing 36 terrorists and arresting 3 in a series of high-stakes firefights. The joint operations spanned across Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi States, where troops dismantled several bandit camps and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages.

The military also intercepted large quantities of arms, including 14 AK-47 rifles and 567 rounds of ammunition.

Operation Whirl Punch reported successful air strikes on terrorist enclaves in Kaduna State, neutralizing dozens of fighters and destroying their infrastructure. Ground forces, meanwhile, carried out arrest operations in Kogi State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), leading to the apprehension of 18 suspects and the recovery of significant weaponry.

Major Buba expressed further that in the South-South, troops of Operation Delta Safe ramped up efforts against oil theft, destroying over 44 illegal refining sites and recovering 602,200 liters of stolen crude oil.

Several gunrunners and kidnappers were arrested in Delta and Bayelsa States, with troops confiscating a Beretta pistol, multiple rifles, and 51 cartridges.

The Director Defense Media emphasized that these ongoing operations demonstrate the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to restore security across the nation, as they continue to degrade terrorist networks, dismantle criminal operations, and rescue hostages from the clutches of extremists.

Ministry of Defence Inaugurates Key Teams to Implement Performance Management and Enterprise Content Systems

Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to enhance service delivery and streamline operations, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has inaugurated two core teams tasked with driving the implementation of its Performance Management System (PMS) and Enterprise Content Management (ECM) frameworks.

This initiative, unveiled by the Permanent Secretary of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, at a ceremony held at the Ship House, Abuja, underscores the ministry’s commitment to achieving the highest standards of efficiency and productivity.

During the inauguration, Dr. Kana expressed confidence in the ministry’s capacity to successfully implement both systems.

“The Ministry of Defence has the infrastructure and human resources to make these systems work effectively,” he said, highlighting the expertise of directors and deputy directors from various departments.

He emphasized that these experts would play a pivotal role in cascading the processes down to all staff levels, ensuring that the entire ministry is aligned with the renewed hope agenda of the government.

Dr. Kana charged the newly inaugurated Project Steering Committee and Project Implementation Technical Team to lead with resilience and dedication, especially as the ministry navigates the initial stages of the systems’ rollout.

“We understand there might be initial hiccups, but the key is to remain committed to overcoming these challenges,” he noted.

He also reiterated the ministry’s commitment to continuous training, stating that, “In MOD, training is not going to be an issue. We can afford to organize training on PMS and ECM every week.”

The Permanent Secretary called on the PMS Champions to demonstrate excellence in driving service delivery and meeting the targets set out for the ministry.

He pointed out that the implementation of these systems is critical to ensuring compliance with government performance standards, ultimately fostering accountability and boosting overall productivity within the ministry.

The newly formed teams are expected to play a leading role in ensuring that these reforms translate into tangible results, positioning the Ministry of Defence as a model for efficiency in government operations.

The inauguration marks a pivotal step in the MOD’s ongoing efforts to align with global best practices in organizational management and content administration.

Badaru Urges Army War College Graduates To Prioritise National Security in Line With Tinubu’S Renewed Hope Agenda

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H. E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on graduates of the Army War College Course 8/2024 to remain steadfast in safeguarding Nigeria’s national security, aligning their efforts with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Army War College Nigeria in Abuja, the Minister lauded the graduates for completing 35 weeks of intensive training, focusing on national security, military strategy, and operational art.

The event celebrated the participants’ achievements in a rigorous academic and practical setting.

Delivering his keynote address as the Special Guest of Honour, Badaru praised the graduates for their commitment and perseverance.

He emphasized that the knowledge and skills they have acquired in leadership and strategic thinking would be instrumental in their future roles.

“It is a great honour to stand before you today at the graduation ceremony for Army War College Course 8/2024. Your journey through 35 weeks of rigorous training, intellectual growth, and personal sacrifice is a testament to your resilience and commitment to excellence,” Badaru said.

The Minister underscored the critical responsibilities awaiting the graduates as operational and strategic leaders within Nigeria’s Armed Forces.

He noted that the graduation marked a significant shift from tactical-level leadership to a more strategic and operational mindset. “Leadership extends beyond giving orders; it’s about inspiring and guiding others toward a common goal. As graduates of the Army War College, you now possess the tools to lead and navigate the complexities of the global geostrategic landscape,” he added.

Encouraging the graduates to lead with integrity, courage, and compassion, Badaru highlighted the evolving nature of global challenges. “The world is constantly changing, and the threats we face are growing more complex. As operational planners, you will face uncertain and perilous situations. I urge you to meet these challenges with confidence and determination,” he said.

He expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian military and acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Chief of Army Staff, the Governing Board of the College, faculty members, and the families of the graduates.

Badaru congratulated the graduates, assuring them that their future in Nigeria’s military leadership is bright. “I have no doubt you will serve our nation with distinction,” he concluded.

FG Partners with NAICOM to Create One Million Jobs for Youth in Insurance Sector

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has announced a strategic partnership with the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) aimed at addressing the country’s youth unemployment crisis by creating one million job opportunities in the insurance sector.

This initiative was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Youth Development and NAICOM in Abuja.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, emphasized that the partnership is designed to equip one million young Nigerians with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the insurance industry.

This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to engage the youth in emerging sectors of the economy, including data management, digital literacy, and the creative industries.

“The future of Nigeria rests on the shoulders of its youth, who make up more than 60% of our population,” said Olawande. “Yet, despite the vital role insurance plays in the economy, it remains underutilized among this critical group. Through this partnership, we aim to change that by opening new career paths for young Nigerians in insurance.”

The Minister highlighted that the training program will be hosted on the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a digital platform launched by President Bola Tinubu earlier this year.

NiYA will offer insurance courses designed to provide youth with the necessary qualifications to connect with industry players, including insurance companies and brokers, across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.

Left- right :The Honourable Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande and the Chief Executive, NAICOM, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, displaying the signed MoU document in Abuja.

NAICOM’s Commissioner and Chief Executive, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, also expressed optimism about the partnership.

He noted that the insurance sector is primed for growth and holds significant employment opportunities for Nigerian youth.

“We have a sector ready for expansion and eager to tap into the dynamism and energy of our youth,” said Omosehin. “Through this collaboration, we will provide essential training that will not only prepare young people for jobs in insurance but also position them to contribute meaningfully to the national economy.”

He added that NAICOM is partnering with the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria to deliver the training, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to meet the industry’s evolving demands.

With over one million jobs expected to be created as a result of this initiative, the partnership is seen as a key step in reducing youth unemployment in Nigeria.

Comrade Olawande reiterated that the current administration is committed to exploring all sectors of the economy to provide meaningful employment opportunities for young Nigerians.

“We are determined to use every available resource, including digital technology, to connect our youth with sustainable careers,” Olawande said.

“This initiative will be a game-changer for our young people, and we will continue to build on it to ensure Nigeria’s youth are empowered and equipped for the future.”

The Federal Government has assured that it will monitor the progress of the program closely to ensure its success and sustainability.

NSCC and CAARS Join Forces to Promote Healthy Ageing and the Rights of Older Persons in Nigeria

Adejoh Bilkisu

The National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC), continues it week long celebration of national day of older persons with today marking the fourth day, held a national symposium.

NSCC in collaboration with the Centre for African American Research Studies (CAARS), initiated the symposium to address key issues surrounding healthy ageing, social protection, and the rights of older persons, with a focus on mainstreaming this demographic into Nigeria’s social safety nets.

The symposium, which is designed to travel from state to state, highlights the importance of ensuring that older persons receive adequate protection and care as they age.

The Director-General of NSCC, Dr. Emem Omokaro, underscored the significance of the partnership with CAARS, noting that research plays a central role in the NSCC’s operations.

“The NSCC was born out of research, and our programs are rooted in data and statistics that drive policy decisions. Research informs the solutions we create and ensures that we are effectively addressing the needs of older citizens,” said Dr. Omokaro.

She emphasized the role of research in combating the negative stereotypes and discrimination often faced by older persons. “The prejudices and misperceptions about older people largely come from a lack of accurate information. Research not only helps us to understand these issues but also equips us with the tools to change the narrative around ageing,” she explained.

Dr. Omokaro highlighted how NSCC’s partnership with the National Directorate of Employment has been instrumental in conducting needs assessments for older persons across various communities.

“Through our research, we’ve discovered that older persons remain essential to the fabric of many communities. They are the backbone of support systems, and it’s crucial that we address their needs effectively.”

She further disclosed that NSCC is actively working to establish senior citizen centers in different regions, but stressed that a one-size-fits-all approach would not work. “Each community has its own unique cultural needs, and research allows us to tailor our programs accordingly,” she added.

With the national symposium and other activities rolling out across the country, the NSCC and CAARS hope to spark a nationwide conversation on the importance of protecting the rights of older persons. The event is expected to influence policy reforms that will better integrate the ageing population into Nigeria’s social protection framework.

Also speaking, the President of the African University of Science and Technology, Prof. Azikiwe Onwualu, represented by Dr. Bosco Okolo-Obi, Assistant Director of the Centre for Pan African and Peace Studies, emphasized the vital role of research in promoting healthy ageing.

He noted the challenges older persons face, especially after retirement, and called for greater inclusivity.

“Healthy ageing is the overall goal of this program. In today’s society, older persons are often excluded from many opportunities, such as retirement after 35 years of service. What happens when you retire?” he remarked, highlighting the vast knowledge and experience older individuals possess, which could be invaluable to younger generations.

He stressed that, despite this, older persons are frequently isolated from social interactions and meaningful opportunities.

Dr. Okolo-Obi further explained that the university is committed to building capacity through knowledge transfer and mentorship.

He added that the institution is exploring collaborations with the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) to ensure that retirees can serve as resource persons, contributing to training, mentorship, and the transfer of knowledge even after leaving the formal workforce.

NSCC Director-General Reaffirms Commitment to Empower Older Persons at Ongoing 5-Day Celebration

Adejoh Bilkisu

In a powerful call for action, the Director-General of the National Senior Citizens Center (NSCC), Dr. Emem Omokaro, has urged the government and society to amplify the contributions of older persons to national development.

Speaking during the Age-Friendly Places and People, a part of the ongoing five-day celebration in Abuja, organized by NSCC, Dr. Omokaro highlighted the critical need to dismantle ageist stereotypes and include older individuals in key policy frameworks.

The event, themed “Celebrating Older Persons and the Role They Play in the Community,” also marked the observance of the International and National Day of Older Persons.

Dr. Omokaro shed light on the persistence of ageism in Nigerian society, noting that while the Universal Declaration of Human Rights has been in place for 75 years, its values of equality, dignity, and participation are often denied to older citizens.

“Ageism perpetuates damaging stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination, which undermine the invaluable contributions of older persons. This harmful narrative leads to a misconception that older people are non-contributing members of society or, worse, a burden on the economy,”said Dr. Omokaro.

She emphasized that the NSCC is actively engaged in reversing these biases, particularly through initiatives aimed at recognizing older persons as vital contributors to sectors such as geriatric care and community development.

Dr. Omokaro further underscored the importance of celebrating older persons as part of recognizing ageing as a development issue, shifting away from outdated views that position older people as objects of pity or merely recipients of welfare.

“The celebration of older persons is a recognition that they are crucial to the sustainability of our nation’s development. As Nigeria’s youth population grows, we must ensure that these future seniors are integrated into economic and social systems that respect their rights and promote their participation,” she remarked.

Dr. Omokaro called for targeted policies that would ensure older citizens benefit from economic growth, social investments, and access to emerging technologies. “Equity is achieved when older persons have the systems and support to reduce poverty, improve health outcomes, and participate fully in society,” she added.

The celebration also featured speeches from prominent policymakers, including Hon. Dr. Bashiru Daudu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disabilities.

Dr. Daudu emphasized the urgent need for the passage of the Older Persons’ Rights and Privileges Bill, which is currently awaiting its second reading in the National Assembly.

He highlighted the significant role that older persons play in nation-building and advocated for swift legislative action to protect their rights.

“We must recognize the value older citizens bring to our communities and the economy. The Older Persons’ Rights and Privileges Bill is a step toward ensuring their contributions are celebrated, not diminished,” said Dr. Daudu.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the NSCC’s Goodwill Ambassador for Age-Friendly Services and Elder Justice Advocacy, led by Dr. Salma Ibrahim Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health.

Dr. Anas lauded the NSCC’s efforts in advocating for age-friendly services, emphasizing the need for cross-sector collaboration to protect the rights and dignity of older persons.

“The work being done by the NSCC is pivotal in ensuring that older Nigerians have access to services that meet their needs. It is important for us to expand these efforts across the country and ensure that age-friendly services are accessible to all,” Dr. Anas said.

The ongoing 5-day celebration serves as a crucial platform to reframe the narrative surrounding ageing in Nigeria. With key government figures and stakeholders pledging their commitment, the event signals a promising shift toward a more inclusive and supportive environment for older persons.

This event highlights not only the growing recognition of older persons’ rights but also the urgent need for systemic changes that empower them to thrive as active members of society.

As policymakers push for the passage of critical legislation, the future for Nigeria’s senior citizens looks brighter than ever.

Federal Ministry of Youth Development Launches Performance Management System to Boost Accountability and Service Excellence

Maryam Aminu

In a strategic move to enhance accountability and excellence in service delivery, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) has signed a landmark agreement to implement a Performance Management System (PMS).

This initiative aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021-2025, setting the stage for a new era of productivity and transparency in the ministry’s operations.

At a signing ceremony held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, alongside key management staff, formalized the introduction of the Employee Performance Management System (EPMS).

The event, which took place in the presence of senior officials, marked a significant step towards fostering a results-driven culture within the ministry.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Olusanya underscored the importance of the performance contract signed by all directors and heads of units.

“This contract signifies a collective commitment to transparency and accountability. It ensures that every staff member is held to measurable standards, driving excellence in service delivery,” he stated.

The Permanent Secretary further emphasized that the PMS is a critical tool for tracking performance, identifying areas of growth, and rewarding outstanding achievements.

A symbolic handover of the MPMS (Management Performance Monitoring System) from the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics to the Director of Human Resources Management (HRM) marked the official commencement of the EPMS.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development , Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya launching the PMS Vest to the Management Staff of the Ministry.

Mr. Olusanya also introduced a unique element to the initiative, mandating that all staff wear PMS jackets and caps every Thursday to promote visibility and ownership of the reform across the ministry.

In his closing remarks, the Director of Human Resources Management, Mr. Chukwuma A.N., urged staff to fully embrace the PMS as part of the broader civil service reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He highlighted the system as a vital component in ensuring that the ministry delivers on its mandate to the Nigerian youth, reinforcing the importance of this initiative in meeting the administration’s development goals.

As the Federal Ministry of Youth Development continues to roll out the PMS, this initiative is expected to serve as a blueprint for other ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) seeking to improve their performance and align with the goals of FCSSIP 2021-2025.

Federal Government Calls on Journalists to Promote Balanced Reporting in Transportation Sector

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government, through the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, has urged journalists to embrace balanced media reporting that highlights the critical role of the transportation sector in bolstering the economy and advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

At the 4th edition of the annual workshop organized by the Abuja Transport and Aviation Correspondents Association (ATACA) on October 3, 2024, the minister, represented by Dr. Shuaib Danwaka, Technical Adviser in the Ministry of Transportation, emphasized the importance of the media’s role in promoting the sector’s services.

The workshop, themed “Harnessing the Aviation, Railway, Marine and Blue Economy Sectors for Sustainable Transportation in Nigeria”, gathered industry experts to address key challenges and opportunities.

Alkali commended ATACA for choosing a timely and relevant theme, stating, “It is my hope that this event will address the critical issues hindering the effectiveness of land, air, and marine transportation in Nigeria.”

He highlighted the sector’s vital role in economic growth, urging the media to remain professional and dedicated in informing the public about the government’s efforts in transforming the transportation sector.

He further noted that the workshop’s timing, during Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary, provides an opportunity to showcase innovative ideas and advancements within the sector.

He called for more effective communication strategies to ensure the public understands the milestones being achieved.

Earlier speaking, ATACA Chairman Oru Leonard Oru, in his opening remarks, explained that the seminar was designed to explore investment opportunities and emerging technologies shaping Nigeria’s transportation future, such as compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), and non-fuel-based transport options like cycling.

Leonard stressed the need for proper funding and global collaboration in the land transportation and railway subsectors, adding that safety and security are key to the success of the entire system.

He also urged the relevant authorities to strengthen their efforts in enforcing transportation safety and security regulations.

Leonard proposed that ministry budgets should include provisions for media engagement, training of press unit staff, and the inclusion of ATACA members in field inspections and regular media discussions.

ATACA Chairman, Oru Leonard Oru delivering his address

In addition, Oru Leonard emphasized the importance of continuous investment in capacity-building for transport journalists, stressing that keeping them informed about the latest trends and innovations is vital to their ability to communicate effectively with the public.

He noted that the media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and understanding of the government’s policies, and well-trained journalists can help bridge the gap between policymakers and citizens.

“Empowering journalists with the right tools and knowledge will enable them to provide more insightful and impactful reporting,” Leonard remarked.

He also called for a closer partnership between the transportation industry and the media, suggesting that this collaboration could help uncover untapped opportunities within the sector.

Leonard pointed out that the media, as a watchdog, can hold the sector accountable while also promoting its successes, ensuring that both challenges and achievements are adequately covered.

“Through mutual engagement, we can build a robust narrative that fosters growth and public trust in Nigeria’s transportation system,” he added.

Speaking also, Arc Bob Achanya, President of the Nigeria Bangladesh Business Technology Forum and Ajaokuta Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the potential of multimodal transportation systems within Nigeria’s emerging blue economy.

He noted that the integration of aviation, railway, and marine sectors would create a seamless transportation network, enhancing connectivity, reducing costs, and boosting logistics efficiency.

Achanya further highlighted some of the Tinubu administration’s key transportation projects, such as the expansion of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, new terminals at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port project, which is set to become the largest deep-sea port in West Africa.

He also mentioned initiatives like the Nigeria-Kenya Integrated Blue Economy Strategy Forum, aimed at strengthening the blue economy sector.

Achanya noted that the integration of multimodal transportation systems would position Nigeria for sustainable economic growth, leveraging the strengths of its various transportation sectors to create a resilient network that drives national prosperity.

National Senior Citizens Centre Hosts Roundtable to Honor Media and Entertainment Veterans

Adejoh Bilkisu

The National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC) recently organized a Media and Entertainment Veteran Roundtable, aimed at celebrating the significant contributions of veterans in the industry and acknowledging their continued relevance in shaping society.

The roundtable which was held yesterday in Abuja, served as a platform to honor the legacies of veterans and emphasize that their wealth of experience remains invaluable to national development.

In her address, the Director General of the NSCC, Dr. Emem Omokaro, highlighted the importance of respecting and valuing senior citizens.

She stressed that while old age is often regarded as a blessing, it is accompanied by stigmatization, which presents numerous challenges for the elderly. “Old people face a lot of difficulties in society, often being mistreated simply because of their age,” Dr. Omokaro stated.

She further emphasized that human rights do not diminish with age, and it is crucial for society to change its perception of aging.

The DG also discussed the vital role veterans play in economic development, noting that their experiences and expertise can still contribute significantly to national growth.

“Our veterans have much to offer, even after retirement,” she said, calling for more initiatives to engage senior citizens in various sectors.

One of the key highlights of the roundtable was the push for the domestication of the NSCC Act. Dr. Omokaro called on relevant authorities to fully implement the provisions of the NSCC Act across the country, to ensure better welfare for senior citizens and promote policies that protect their rights.

One of Nigeria’s most iconic television figures, Peter Igho, initiated the Media and Entertainment Veterans meeting after learning about the NSCC’s projects aimed at supporting the elderly.

He expressed his belief that the veterans of the media and entertainment industry, who dedicated their lives to their craft, deserve recognition and appreciation.

Igho, who has left a lasting legacy in Nigerian television, noted that many careers were shaped by the veterans honored at the roundtable.

His commitment to honoring these pioneers reflects his passion for ensuring that those who paved the way are supported in their later years.

Through his collaboration with the NSCC, Igho hopes to bridge the gap between veterans and the recognition they deserve.

Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva, who was present at the event, expressed her gratitude for the recognition and underscored the importance of treating the elderly with respect. “We all will age someday, and how we treat our elders today reflects on the kind of society we want to build,” Silva remarked.

She urged the younger generation to acknowledge the wisdom of older citizens and treat them with care and dignity.

Also speaking, Dr Ladan Salihu, a veteran Broadcast Journalist praised the National Senior Citizens Centre for becoming a cornerstone in providing holistic care to veterans.

“Knowing that an agency like this exists in Nigeria is a source of joy, as it assures us that we can age peacefully without the fear of stigmatization,” he said.

He suggested that the meetings be held quarterly to allow veterans to reconnect with their peers and openly discuss their challenges and achievements.

Salihu also advocated for the creation of a financial reserve for veterans, serving as a backup for those in need of financial assistance.

The event concluded with a call for more awareness on the rights and contributions of older persons in society, encouraging everyone to view aging as a natural process that enriches the human experience rather than a burden.

Nigeria @ 64: NGIJ Calls for Good Governance, Economic Recovery, and National Unity

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists, NGIJ has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration to redouble its efforts towards delivering campaign promises on good governance, economic recovery and National unity.

NGIJ also urge government to prioritise freedom of press, as it forms critical componant of modern democracy. Noting that journalists face harassment and intimidation, as a result, stifling their ability to report truthfully.

“We therefore demand an end to these unnecessary attacks and call for protection of press freedom” in Nigeria.

The call was made by the President of the Guild, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, today in Abuja in a felicitation message to Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 64th Independence Anniversary.

According to the Guild President, “As Nigeria marks its
64th Independence anniversary, the country stands at a critical juncture, facing a multitude of challenges that have tested the resilience of its people. From the lingering effects of economic hardship to the persistent threats of terrorism, kidnapping, vandalisation of critical infrastructure and other social vices, Nigerians have endured a tumultuous journey since the nation’s inception.”

He stated further, “Amidst the trials, there remains a glimmer of hope and a steadfast determination to propel the country towards a brighter future.”

“The Guild, a prominent investigative organization committed to deepening democracy, transparency and accountability, stands ready to collaborate with the government in its efforts to rid the nation of corruption and steer it towards an enviable heights.

“President Tinubu, upon assuming office, has acknowledged the daunting tasks that lie ahead. The new administration must now show its commitment to good governance by addressing the root causes of the country’s economic woes and intensifying the onslaght against the scourge of terrorism, kidnapping, and other social ills.”

NGIJ leadership charges Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and other key stakeholders in the sector, including the Dangote Refinery, to play their pivotal role in revitalizing the sector, that remains the backbone of the nation’s economy.

“We call for a critical examination of the industry’s challenges and the implementation of comprehensive reforms, to ensure that the benefits of the sector are equitably distributed among all Nigerians.” Aliagan said.

As the country celebrates its independence, citizens are called upon to join hands with the government in this transformative journey. By fostering a spirit of unity, cooperation, and civic engagement, Nigerians can work together to overcome the obstacles that have hindered the nation’s progress and secure a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

“In this momentous occasion, the Guild prayed for the leaders, the wisdom and fortitude to navigate the path ahead, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before.

“May the 64th Independence anniversary inspire a renewed hope and commitment to the ideals of democracy, social justice, and national unity that have defined the Nigerian spirit since its inception.” The statement concludes.