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Badaru Urges Youths to Embrace Dialogue and Engage in Nation-Building Initiatives

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on Nigerian youths to embrace dialogue and actively participate in initiatives aimed at self-development and nation-building.

The Minister made this statement during a meeting with a delegation from the Forum of Special Assistants and Senior Special Assistants to Governors, led by the Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives, Hon. Titi Gbadamosi, at Ship House, Abuja.

Badaru emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform initiatives are focused on improving the lives of Nigerians, highlighting the autonomy granted to local governments as a significant step towards ensuring effective and accountable development at the grassroots level.

He also pointed out that various palliatives, including Social Security Intervention, the Post Subsidy Removal Presidential Grant, and Loans Schemes, have been provided to support Nigerians through their state governments.

The Minister noted that several programs, such as the Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) initiative, and the Skilled-Up Artisans Initiative (SUPA), have been specifically designed to empower Nigerian youths.

He encouraged them to collaborate with relevant ministries, including the Ministries of Information and National Orientation, Trade and Industry, Humanitarian Affairs, Youth, and Finance, as well as agencies like the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), Bank of Industries, and SMEDAN, to take full advantage of these opportunities.

Hon. Titi Gbadamosi, who led the delegation, affirmed the Forum’s commitment to advancing youth development across the continent by fostering dialogue, innovation, and collaboration.

She announced that a key event to further these goals is scheduled for the 1st and 2nd of October 2024 at the International Conference Center, Abuja. The event aims to catalyze the active participation of Nigerian youths in nation-building and economic empowerment.

FG, Walter Reed Army Institute to Enhance Collaboration on Medical Research

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Defence, has called for deeper collaboration with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) in the United States to enhance medical research that benefits both military personnel and civilians in Nigeria.

This appeal was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, during a meeting with the leadership of WRAIR at the Ship House in Abuja.

Dr. Kana highlighted the importance of the existing partnership between the Walter Reed Institute and the Ministry’s Health Implementation Programme, noting that it has significantly strengthened the relationship between the two nations and their military forces.

“Your facility has been of tremendous help, not only to the military but to the entire nation,” Dr. Kana remarked.

He emphasized the need to expand collaboration beyond treating diseases like malaria to include preventive measures, particularly the development of a malaria vaccine.

“We need to work on vaccine research to prevent malaria, which is one of the leading causes of death among children under five,” he stated.

Dr. Kana expressed confidence in the potential for stronger partnerships in research, particularly in developing a malaria prevention vaccine.

“The Ministry will be happy to launch such a research program,” he added.

Brigadier General Nathan Okeji (Rtd), Director-General of the Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme, commended WRAIR’s support, which he described as excellent, particularly in controlling the spread of HIV and tuberculosis.

The leader of the WRAIR delegation, Air Commodore Cownell Eli Lozano, reassured the Permanent Secretary of the United States’ commitment to sustaining and deepening the existing relationship with Nigeria.

He also expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its support and highlighted the significant achievements of the partnership, especially the establishment of the Defence Reference Laboratory (DRL) in Abuja.

FORMER DG GOVERNORS FORUM CONGRATULATES NEW DG OF STATE SECURITY SERVICES

Abuja, Nigeria – Earl Osaro Onaiwu, former Director-General of the Governors Forum, has congratulated Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi on his appointment as the new Director-General of the State Security Services (SSS).

Onaiwu praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making an excellent choice, saying “Mr. President’s decision to appoint Mr. Ajayi is a testament to his commitment to national security and his ability to identify and appoint competent individuals to key positions.”

He further stated, “I have no doubt that Mr. Ajayi will bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the agency, drawing on his wealth of experience in securing high-risk areas, particularly his notable achievements as Director of the SSS in Bauchi State, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in maintaining peace and stability in the region.”

Onaiwu also commended the outgoing DG for his service to the nation, saying “The contributions of the outgoing DG to national security will not be forgotten.”

The former DG Governors Forum expressed his optimism that Mr. Ajayi will build on the successes of his predecessor and take the agency to greater heights.

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World SDGs Organization Appoints Sheikh Muhammad Nuru Khalid to Religious Board

Maryam Aminu

The World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria has appointed Sheikh Muhammad Nuru Khalid as a member of its religious board.

The appointment, announced on Saturday, places Khalid in a pivotal role aimed at bridging religious perspectives with the global mission to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In his response to the appointment, Sheikh Khalid remarked that the role is more of a challenge than an honour, as it compels him to increase his efforts in promoting awareness and action towards the SDGs.

He emphasized the importance of enlightening the public about these goals and encouraging them to demand good governance that aligns with the principles of sustainable development.

Sheikh Khalid highlighted the universal nature of the UN’s goals, noting that they transcend religious boundaries and impact everyone regardless of their faith.

He also expressed his commitment to offering religious guidance to the organisation, ensuring that their initiatives are in harmony with ethical and humanitarian principles.

“I am an advocate for humanity, working for the betterment of all human beings, not for any specific entity or religion,” Sheikh Khalid stated, reaffirming his dedication to the global cause of sustainable development.

The Country Representative, Engr. Kolawole Adenikan expressed that the appointment is expected to enhance the organisation’s efforts in integrating religious insights into their strategies for achieving the SDGs, ultimately fostering a more inclusive approach to addressing global challenges.

NGO Distributes Essentials to Struggling Families, Aims to Ease Hardship Amid Economic Challenges

Maryam Aminu

In a time of hardship when families are finding it difficult to survive, an NGO, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria has stepped in to ensure that household essentials such as detergents and shoes are supplied to those in need.

The Country Representative Engr Kolawole Adenikan said interventions are necessary to ease the hardship people are going through.

Engr. Adenikan expressed that the NGO felt the need to distribute detergents and shoes because they realised that these little packages will impact the needy

“we are planning on a different angle aimed at assisting the vulnerable by empowering them with skills.” He added

Also speaking, the Global President of the organization, H.E Emmanuel Daudu said the distribution was part of the foundation’s contributions to achieving the SDGs 3

“We want to touch the lives of the masses. I believe the excitement on the faces of the beneficiaries have shown that we have succeeded in doing so. We intend to do more for the less-privileged persons subsequently

Daudu called on stakeholders to assist the organisation so they could distribute more items to the needy adding that the organisation cannot do it alone

Ajia Congratulates Newly Appointed Ilorin Emirate Traditional Leaders

The President/CEO of Funab Group of Companies, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Alhaji Ibrahim Gambari and Alhaji Umar Abdulrahman Baba Ajia on their appointments to the traditional stool of the their respective family lineage in Ilorin Emirate.

The two Appointees by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, who will serve as Galadima Ngeri of Ilorin and Ajia Ogbonde respectively, both individuals have been recognized for their capabilities and dedication

In statement signed by his Director of Communications, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, Ajia expressed full confidence that the appointees would remain loyal to the Emir of Ilorin while actively contributing to the growth and development of the Ilorin emirate and Kwara state in general.

According to the statement, Ajia noted, “As they embrace their new responsibilities, prayers are being offered for the long life, purposeful and impactful reigns for the duo.

The Abuja-based business tycon said , “The hope is that they will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a strong commitment to serving their communities.

The Ilorin-born Politician and Security expert wishes the newly appointed traditional leaders success in their roles.

He added that, “We eagerly anticipate witnessing the positive contributions both individuals will make to society under their new capacities.” He finally urged the family members of the appointee to see those chosen as the will of almighty Allah and therefore support them in prayers for a peaceful and prosperous tenure . The statement concludes.

PDP Not a Comedy Party-Idowu

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning to Senator Dino Melaye, telling him to take the party seriously or leave.

Idowu Unoja, a chieftain of the PDP from Kogi State, made the statement in response to Melaye’s recent actions, which have brought the party into disrepute.

Melaye’s failure to vote for himself during the last governorship election in Kogi State, despite the party raising over N1 billion for his campaign, is a betrayal of the party’s trust. Furthermore, his inability to mobilize party faithful in Kogi State has raised questions about his commitment to the party’s success.

To make matters worse, Melaye has squandered the party’s resources on luxury cars and a lavish lifestyle, without any visible means of income. This reckless display of wealth has embarrassed the party and its leadership.

Revelations of Melaye’s attempts to reconcile with APC leader Bola Tinubu through Daniel Bwala have led many to question his loyalty and commitment to the PDP.

It is particularly shameful that despite the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), led by Ambassador Damangu Umar, being magnanimous in their support for Melaye, he has chosen to cast aspersions on their leadership.

“The PDP is not a comedy party, and we will not tolerate any behavior that brings us into disrepute,” Unoja said. “We call on Senator Melaye to take the PDP seriously or leave. His actions are a slap in the face to the party and its supporters.”

The party’s leadership must now decide whether to continue tolerating Melaye’s antics or take a stand against him. The PDP’s values and integrity are at stake.

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FG Reaffirms Commitment to Training Youth as Job Creators

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to implementing policies that equip Nigerian youth with the skills necessary to become job creators rather than job seekers, as part of efforts to curb youth unemployment in the country.

This was emphasized by Prince Olugbenga Momoh, Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, during the closing ceremony of a two-week training workshop at the National Youth Development Centre in Ode Omu, Osun State.

The workshop focused on equipping young entrepreneurs with the knowledge to generate, design, and craft bankable business plans.

Prince Momoh highlighted the critical role of entrepreneurship in addressing the nation’s unemployment challenges, noting that the ability to create and present a solid business plan is essential in today’s competitive market.

“It’s not just about starting a business; it’s about setting smart goals and objectives when developing a business plan,” he stated.

He further noted that a well-structured business plan not only supports an entrepreneurial journey but also attracts potential investors and secures necessary funding.

Prince Momoh commended the participants for their active involvement throughout the workshop, stressing that the skills and knowledge they acquired are foundational to their future business success.

Itohan Odigwe, the program coordinator, echoed these sentiments, stating that the training provided the youth with the tools needed to create business plans that would appeal to financial institutions.

She urged the participants to apply the lessons learned and share their knowledge within their communities.

“We covered various modules on generating business ideas, identifying market needs, and engaging in practical exercises that help solidify these concepts. This hands-on approach will enable the participants to craft their own business plans post-workshop,” Odigwe explained.

She also noted that the training is one of the prerequisites for accessing the National Youth Investment Fund (NYIF).

Participants expressed their satisfaction with the program, with Mr. Moses Odigwe from Delta State and Miss Fatia Kolejo from Lagos State describing it as highly beneficial in guiding them toward successful entrepreneurship.

The workshop concluded with the presentation of certificates to the participants.

Group photograph of participants at the workshop

Nigerian Military Achieves Significant Gains in Counter-Terrorism Operations

Maryam Aminu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria have reported substantial progress in their ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the nation, with significant achievements recorded in the North-East (NE), North-West (NW), and North-Central (NC) regions.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba expressed that in the latest operations, the military has successfully neutralized numerous terrorist leaders and commanders.

Major Buba noted that troops in the North-Central region apprehended several notorious kidnappers and arms traffickers, further weakening criminal networks in the area.

During the week under review, military operations led to the neutralization of 171 individuals involved in terrorist activities and the arrest of 302 suspects. Troops also apprehended 25 individuals involved in oil theft and rescued 134 kidnapped hostages.

He added that in the South-South (SS) region, military efforts prevented the theft of oil valued at approximately ₦846.48 million.

The Armed Forces recovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition, including one PKT gun, one G3 rifle, three AK-49 rifles, 44 AK-47 rifles, ten fabricated rifles, 18 dane guns, ten pump-action shotguns, four locally-made pistols, 18 AK-47 magazines, two FN magazines, a smoke grenade, and a bandolier.

Major Buba further expressed that troops recovered 843 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 506 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, 60 rounds of 7.62x54mm ball-rimmed ammunition, 90 live cartridges, five Baofeng radios, 11 vehicles, 46 motorcycles, four bicycles, 52 mobile phones, cutlasses, and the sum of ₦126,285.

He disclosed that in the Niger Delta region, troops discovered and destroyed 26 dugout pits, 13 boats, 90 drums, 45 storage tanks, 155 cooking ovens, four speedboats, one pumping machine, seven vehicles, and 98 illegal refining sites.

The military also recovered 799,400 litres of stolen crude oil and 151,150 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

Major Buba reiterated the Armed Forces commitment to sustaining these operations across the country, ensuring the enduring defeat of terrorist groups and the safety of all citizens.

CLEEN Foundation Calls for Collaborative Peace Efforts in Benue State

Bilkisu Adejoh

The CLEEN Foundation, a prominent peace advocacy Civil Society Organization (CSO), has underscored the importance of collective responsibility in fostering peace across Benue State.

The foundation emphasized that achieving lasting peace requires the active involvement and collaboration of all community members, with a special focus on the role of women in conflict resolution.

During a courtesy visit to the Benue State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ann Itodo Benjamin, in Makurdi on Wednesday, the foundation reiterated the critical role peace plays in the prosperity and well-being of any community.

Dr. Gabriel Akinremi, who led the delegation on behalf of the Foundation’s Executive Director, Dr. Gad Peter, also engaged with traditional and religious leaders in Guma and Gwer Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state as part of the advocacy effort.

In his address, Dr. Akinremi highlighted the necessity of involving various stakeholders in conflict management to maintain peace within communities.

He stressed that peacebuilding efforts must include diverse perspectives to be effective, particularly those of women.

“Conflict management by various stakeholders is crucial to maintaining peace within any community. It requires the active participation and collaboration of all community members,” Akinremi remarked.

“Women bring unique perspectives to peace processes and conflict management, often leading to more sustainable outcomes. Their inclusion is not just about gender equality; it’s about ensuring effectiveness and comprehensive solutions.”

Akinremi further emphasized that women’s involvement in peace processes leads to agreements that better reflect the needs of the entire community, thereby contributing to long-term stability.

He called for a united approach among all stakeholders including leaders, NGOs, elders, youth, and both men and women to enhance peace and conflict management efforts.

“Each person’s contribution is valuable, and it’s essential that women have an equal seat at the table. This inclusivity can transform conflict management, promote justice, and establish peace as the norm,” Akinremi added.

Responding, Mrs. Magdalene Andor, Director of the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, noted that peace is fundamental to the development of any community.

She explained that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but rather the presence of justice, mutual respect, and understanding.

“Peace is the foundation of every thriving community. Without it, our collective efforts to secure a better future for ourselves and our children are undermined,” Mrs. Andor stated.

“Achieving peace requires the participation of all community members, who must work together to resolve disputes, prevent violence, and foster reconciliation.”

Mrs. Andor also highlighted the essential role of collaboration in conflict management, noting that no single individual or group can achieve peace alone.

She urged continuous dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding to address the root causes of conflict and build lasting peace.

“Involving women in peace processes is not only a matter of gender equality but also crucial for effectiveness. Women, with their deep understanding of social dynamics, often serve as mediators and advocates for peace. Their inclusion strengthens our collective capacity to secure enduring peace,” Mrs. Andor concluded.

The engagement by the CLEEN Foundation and the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare reflects a committed effort to promote a more inclusive and effective approach to peacebuilding in Benue State, focusing on the vital roles all community members can play in achieving and sustaining peace.