Africa Security Investigation News

AFN reaffirms resolution to eliminate all terrorists across the Nation

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria has assured the general public of its resolution and affirming that it would continue to fulfill its mission of hunting and destroying terrorist and their cohorts across the country in the most professional manner.
“Needless to mention, these terrorist are left with only two choices which is to either be killed die or surrender”.

The Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba made this known on Thursday during a biweekly press briefing on the ongoing military operations by the armed forces of nigeria as at 8 February 2024.

According to him, since the beginning of the year, Several terrorists and their leaders have been killed or badly injured owing to offensive actions by both land and air forces.
“Troops are continuing their actions even at this very moment and we are proud of them and appreciate their brave conduct.

“Even though it might not seem that way due to recent events across the country. The fact remains that, our goal is to restore peace and security for citizens to have an enjoyable life. We will continue to do that inspite of the current circumstances. Troops will continue fighting with great effort, determination and sacrifice to bring about great results.

“For instance, in the month of January 2024, troops recorded the following: neutralized 266 terrorists, arrested 463 violent extremists/insurgents and rescued 116 kidnapped hostages. Furthermore, troops recovered 447 assorted weapons and 6,697 assorted ammunitions. In the month of Jan 24, troops operating in the SS, denied the oil theft of the estimated sum of Two Billion Eight Hundred and Twenty One Million Five Hundred and Three Thousand and Nine Hundred Sixty Two Naira (N2,821,503,962.00) only.

“Breakdown for the month of January is as follows: 237 AK47 rifles, 26 locally fabricated guns, 18 pump action guns, 55 dane guns, 6,807 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 421 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 16 rounds of 9mm and 506 live cartridges. Others are 1,832,150 litres of stolen crude oil, 523,799 litres of illegally refined AGO, 16,716 litres of DPK and 5,200 litres of PMS amonsgt other item.

“Meanwhile, during the week under review. Troops neutralised 105 terrorist and arrested 140 of them. Troops also arrested 26 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 86 kidnapped hostages. In the SS, troops denied the oil theft of the estimated sum of Two Hundred and Twenty Million Eight Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand and Five Hundred Naira (N220,839,500.00) only.

“Additionally, troops recovered 208 assorted weapons and 5,332 assorted ammunition. The breakdown for the week is as follows: 95 AK47 rifles, one assault rifle, 39 locally fabricated guns, 34 dane guns, 14 pump action guns, 4 fabricated pistol, 3 fabricated pump action gun, one fabricated revolver pistol, 2 fabricated double barrel gun and locally fabricated arty pieces.

“Others are: 3,830 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 640 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 265 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm ammo, 98 rounds of 7.62 x 51mm ammo, 62 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammo, 64 rounds of 9mm ammo, 359 live cartridges, 8 magazines, 6 mobile phones and the sum of N383,200.00 amongst other items.

“Troops in the Niger Delta area discovered and destroyed 9 dugout pits, 19 boats, 21 storage tanks and 8 vehicles. Other items recovered include 35 cooking ovens, 3 pump machines and 18 illegal refining sites. Troops recovered 157,300 litres of stolen crude oil, 23,750 litres of illegally refined AGO and 1,050 litres of DPK.

“Given all stated above, and because our security challenges are mostly self inflicted. It is pertinent to urge citizens to rise up to the challenge. It is time to stop the bleeding in order for healing to commence.

“I urge all segments of society to take example from our gallant troops in the frontlines fighting to achieve the goal of liquidating terrorists and insurgents across the country in order to restore peace and security. These men and women, are from all the nooks and cranny of our country, and act shoulder to shoulder as a united force to achieve a common cause of destroying camps of violence in the country.

“Just like our footballers are doing to make the nation protein the ongoing AFCON, our musician and artist are doing on the world stage and our athletes flying our flags high with pride. It is not beyond us with our resilient spirit to quench the fires of violence across the country.

“Unity is key to our victory in over coming the security challenges confronting us as a nation. Indeed, it must be said that, militaries don’t go to war, rather it is nations that go to war.

“Our nation is at war, and wars can be complex and ugly. Already, we are witnessing some of the ugly trends of war
across the country. It is time for citizens to close ranks with the military to win this war. Citizens are critical in war, and must therefore be quick to realize their role in the ongoing war and act accordingly”.

Ebira Youth Consultative Forum for Good Governance Caution Yahaya Bello Tells Him To Allow Ododo Rule

Maryam Aminu

In recent development, the good people of kogi state witnessed the swearing in of the new administration who took over the mantle of leadership to rule the state for the next four years.

The Forum described the day indeed a joyful moment especially having His Excellency, Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo an Eni’Ebira at the head of affairs as the successor to pilot the affairs of the state after Yahaya Bello.

A statement signed by the Secretary, Ebira Youth Consultative Forum for Good Governance, Amb. Avidime Ibrahim and made available to journalists on Thursday, 8th of February, 2024 expressed that Ododo’s legacy and blueprint to lead the state, embarking on the new and exciting journey coupled with his passion for the betterment of our dear state stand to achieve in a test of time.

“It is so painful that our newly Executive Governor His Excellency, Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo seems not to be giving a free hand to exercise his quest for good governance, the current appointment from Ebira land shows clearly that the core participants of the former administration are still recruited into the new administration making it look as if our land does not have capable hands that will takeover after spending 8years in Yahaya Bello’s cabinet.”

The Forum frowns at Yahaya Bello for still living in kogi state government house despite his tenure was over,

“We want to urge Yahaya Bello to free our brother and also vacate Kogi State Government House premises to enable our brother carry out his core responsibility in moving the state to greater heights.”

Amb. Avidime Ibrahim on behalf of the union emphasises bitterness, saying Yahaya’s administration is over and should as a matter of urgency leave the new administration to coordinate his affairs.

Reiterated its unwavering commitment, loyalty and support to the new administration of His Excellency, Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo,the organisation equally promised to sustain this advocacy until the needful is done.

Olawande Spearheads NYSC – UNODC cooperation To Tackle Drug Abuse Among Youths

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande has initiated a partnership talk between the United Nation’s office on drug and crime(UNODC) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the effort to surmount the problem of drug abuse among youths.

In a meeting which was held at the NYSC headquarters in maitama, Abuja at the instance of the Minister as a follow up to an earlier discussion between him and the country representative of UNODC, Mr Oliver stolp, Olawande reiterated the need to address the menace of drug abuse and crime which is mostly perpetrated by young people.

According to a statement by the Head, Press and Public Relations, Maryam Umar Yusuf, said the minister who was received by the Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Yushau Dogara Ahmed expressed optimism that the collaboration will yield fruitful results.

He said, “I am hopeful that the proposed partnership will explore the prospect of deploying corp members as ready volunteers in the battle to rid Nigerian youth of drugs and substance abuse.“

In his contribution, the UNODC country representative, Mr Oliver stolp explained that his office has some ongoing projects such as unplugged, Line Up Live Up and Drug Education for school children which are aimed at reducing the prevalence of drug abuse in Nigeria. He therefore called on the NYSC management to accept the request for partnership with the UNODC.

In his remarks, the Director General of NYSC, Brigadier General Ahmed gave the assurance that the NYSC, which has an existing partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), would be willing to explore every partnership option to ensure that the menace of drug abuse is curbed among the youth.

The two organisations agreed to set up a joint team to work out the details of the partnership.

NAMA MD/CEO, Avsatel MD/CEO Visit NiMet DG/CEO Anosike, Discuss Collaboration

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike, on Tuesday, 6th February, 2024, received in audience the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Umar Ahmed Farouk (3rd right in the group photograph), and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Avsatel Communications Ltd, Mag. Georg Eder (2nd left), at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

The three Chief Executive Officers discussed collaboration and other matters that will be of mutual benefits to their respective organizations.

Also at the meeting were Engr. Abdulkareem Hamid Olayinka, Executive Director, Engineering and Technical Services, NiMet (left), and Prof. Vincent Ezikornwor Weli, Executive Director, Weather Services, NiMet (Right).

Lawyers, Bloggers, Others Dismisses Corruption Allegations Against FCT Chief Judge

Maryam Aminu

…pass vote of confidence on Chief Judge Nigeria

Three nonprofit organizations, Lawyers in Defence of Good Governance and Democracy, LIDOGG, Coalition of Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria, COCSON, and the Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association in Nigeria, BAVCCA, Wednesday, declared allegations of corruption and nepotism leveled against the Chief Judge of he Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Justice Husseini Baba-Yusuf as baseless.

The CSOs made their declaration during a press conference held in Abuja in light of the allegations raised in a recent audit report, where they also passed a vote of confidence on Justice Baba-Yusuf.

The Conveners of the group, Comrade Adewale Ogunnoiki, Barr. Caroline Bello and Dr Ibrahim Abubakar, expressed pain as and described the unnecessary attacks on the judiciary as unfortunate, whereby subjecting the judiciary to ridicule in the course of their duty, hence the judges are not allowed to defend themselves despite the alleged media attacks they receive.

It will be recalled that an online media according to them without a verifiable address made a publication on February 4, 2024, where it alleged that the Federal Court in Nigeria paid the sum of N1.5 billion for vehicle contracts without any evidence to support these transactions. The audit report suggested a lack of proper documentation and transparency in the process of awarding and executing these contracts.

Meanwhile, Comrade Adewale Ogunnoiki, cautioned that it is imperative to consider Justice Baba-Yusuf’s proven track records which are devoid of any corruption before making hasty judgments based on allegations alone.

He said: “We, as representatives of LIDOGG, BAVCCA COCSON, have conducted our investigations into these allegations to ensure that we present a fair and balanced perspective.”

“After careful analysis of the available facts, we reiterate our vote of confidence on the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory.”

Meanwhile, the groups highlighted Reasons for Vote of Confidence passed on Justice Baba-Yusuf; Integrity and Reputation: The Chief Judge has built a reputation for integrity, fairness, and professionalism throughout his career. It is crucial to consider this track record before making hasty judgments based on allegations alone.

“No Evidence: There is no evidence to back up this false and fabricated story. This is an unverified story concocted just to malign the integrity of the Chief Judge.

“Due Process: The legal system in Nigeria provides a framework for addressing allegations of misconduct. We encourage all parties involved to follow due process and allow investigations to take place unhindered.

“Commitment to Accountability: The Chief Judge has consistently demonstrated a commitment to transparency and accountability in the judiciary. It is essential to recognize and appreciate these efforts in ensuring an impartial justice system.”

He therefore urged all parties involved, including government agencies and the public, to allow a the Chief Judge to breathe and refrain from engaging in character assassination or spreading unverified information.

In a related development, the group also condemned the recent nepotism allegations leveled against the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, which according to them, Justice Ariwoola never influenced the National Judicial Council, NJC, into appointing his relatives, who are heading diverse positions across the judiciary bureaucracy.

“The propagators of this fake news are disgruntled element, who are hell bent at looking for a bad name to tarnish and discredit the reputation of the CJN.

“We therefore call on Nigerians to discard this cheap blackmail from persons who are out to defame Justice Ariwoola, who has positively transform the judiciary and reposition it for high productivity.

“He (Justice Ariwoola) has been able, through his proactive and pragmatic steps to improve the sanity and independence of the judiciary”, they said.

Meanwhile, the groups pointed out that even members of the Bench and Bar including the Judiciary staff have showered encomium on his sterling performance, since he took over the helm of affairs of the Judiciary in the country.

Man Gets Emotional As Family Surprised Him On His Birthday

Maryam Aminu

A heartwarming moment as man identified as Mr Adejoh gets emotional when his family surprised him

The man was overwhelmed with love on his birthday when his wife and family organised a surprise birthday and decided to make his day a memorable one

The moment begins with his wife and family storming his office and his colleagues and friends seen pleasantly surprised. The trumpeter then started singing the birthday song for him and Mr Adejoh couldn’t hold back his emotions. His excitement and happiness was palpable and the moment was just adorable.

In the company of a trumpeter, the family delivered a cake, small chops, food tray and gifts to him at his work place on Tuesday 6th February,2024 in Abuja

The wife Mrs Shafa’atu Ibrahim made it clear that she was out to surprise her lovely husband for the love he has shown her over the years.

The gesture visibly touched the husband, and his expression showed he was grateful.

The husband who expressed delight by the generous gift thanked his wife and family profusely, adding that she is the best thing that has happened to him

MATAWALLE ATTENDS THE SECOND MEETING OF ISLAMIC MILITARY COUNTER TERRORISM COALITION FOR DEFENCE MINISTERS IN RIYADH

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle MON, is attending the Second Meeting of Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) Defence Ministers’ Council in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The meeting is being chaired by the Saudi Minister of Defence who is also the Chairman Council of Defence Ministers of IMCTC member countries, His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Sa’ad.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike
Director, information, Press & Public Relations,
IMCTC was established in 2015, the first ever meeting of Council of Defence Ministers was held in Riyadh on 26 November 2017.
The mission of IMCTC is aimed at coordinating ideological, media and counter-terrorist financing and military efforts within its member countries with a high degree of efficiency and effectiveness, unifying and supporting them in partnership with friendly countries in counter terrorism and international organizations. Its vision is to become a global leader on counter-terrorism and a primary partner in international security and peace making efforts.

In addition to Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, IMCTC has 40 other members some of which are Pakistan, Senegal, Kenya, Benin, Turkey, Guinea Bissau, Sudan, Cote de Voírè, Egypt, Sierra Leona and Uganda amongst others. Furthermore, IMCTC has an existing MoU with USA, United Kingdom and France as supporting countries to the Coalition whose roles include developing initiatives, political participation , advocacy, sharing information and providing resources to IMCTC when required.

During the meeting issues of terrorism in Nigeria were highlighted pointing out the negative impact of Boko Haram, Islamic State – West Africa Province (ISWAP) and other terrorist groups. The efforts of the present Nigerian administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,against terrorism in particular and security in general was also highly appreciated by the Coalition.

In-line with its core values and strategic objectives, IMCTC reiterated its commitment to support and collaborate with the Nigerian Government in the fight against terrorism. This was made known during a closed door meeting between the representative of the Saudi Minister of Defence, Chief of Joint Staff , Secretary General of IMCTC, Nigerian Minister of State for Defence and other major stake holders of the Saudi Government. The old and strong cordial relationship that has long existed between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia was also emphasized. Issues of collaboration, transfer of military technology and Memorandum of Understanding on security cooperation were also discussed during the closed door meeting. It is envisaged that this very important meeting would eventually improve collaboration in the fight against terrorism globally and subsequently elevate counter-terrorism and security efforts across the African Sahel region which would eventually aid in further degrading the operations and activities of Boko Haram, ISWAP and other terrorist groups in Nigeria.

World Defence Exhibition 2024 in Saudi Arabia: Matawalle leads Nigerian Delegation

… Nigeria to explore latest technologies to combat insecurity- Matawalle

The Honoursble Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON along with other Nigerian delegation is attending the second edition of the world Defence exhibition which commenced from 4th February 2024 in Riyadh Kingdom of Arabia.

Henshaw Ogubike mnipr
Director ( Information and Public Relations), said, the Nigerian delegation to the World Defence Exhibition comprises of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Director-General of Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Major- General Effiong Edet and other critical stakeholders of the Nigerian Armed Forces and exhibitors from the shore of Nigeria.

While going round the exhibition stands, the Minister pointed out that the aim of the Global exhibition was for participating countries Ministries of Defence to meet and share information and ideas on the latest defence systems.

According to him, major international defence companies like DICON and PROFORCE from Nigeria and others around the world are participating in the exhibition in addition to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Defence.

Speaking further, the Minister said: “The Exhibition is designed to deliver key platforms across all five defence domains – land, sea, air, space (satellites) and security.”

The exhibition featured displays of military hardware, latest technology military aircraft including a live air show, knowledge transfer, topical debates, and opportunities to connect, collaborate and network with key defense stakeholders and leaders.

Commending the organizer of the global event, the Minister said that countries would gain a lot in terms of defence cooperation. “The objective of the Nigerian delegation’s participation in this all important event is to explore latest technology in military hardware that would eventually be acquired for the country and also create ways of collaborating with key Defence stakeholders, leaders and companies to enhance Nigeria’s security structure,” he explained. This is line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Agenda on security and further enhancement of security in Nigeria and West African region.
The 2nd world Defence Exhibition in Saudi Arabia is expected to end on the 8th of February 2024.

EFCC freezes N3b traced to former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika’s brother’s account

According to the Nation, EFCC quizzed and arrested Abubakar Ahmad Sirika, brother of immediate-past Minister Hadi Sirika over an alleged N8.06 billion contract fraud in the Federal Ministry of Aviation.

Of the contract sum, about N3.2 bn was traced to Engirios Nigeria Limited, owned by Abubakar Sirika, who is a Level-16 officer, a deputy director, in the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

It was learnt that four big contracts were awarded to Abubakar’s Engirios Nigeria Limited when his brother was in charge of the ministry.

According to EFCC investigators, Abubakar Ahmad Sirika is listed as the company’s MD/CEO and also the sole signatory to the two accounts linked to the firm with two banks.

The four contracts the ex-minister awarded to his brother which were not executed are:

– Construction of the Terminal Building in Katsina Airport (N1.3bn).

Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre in Katsina Airport (N3.8bn), Procurement and installation of elevators, air conditioners and power generator house in Aviation House, Abuja (N615m), Procurement of Magnus Aircraft and simulator for Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria (N2.3bn).

Investigators revealed that there was a payment of N3.2bn out of the total contract sum to Engirios Nigeria Limited and upon the receipt of the payment, Abubakar Ahmad Sirika allegedly transferred it to different companies and individuals.

The investigators also alleged that there’s no trace of work done on any of the contract items to date.

Youth Minister Restates Commitment To Workers Welfare

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has pledged to prioritize staff welfare to motivate workers to give their best to the service of the nation as well as achieve the Ministry’s mandate

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim gave the assurance today in Abuja during an interactive session with the management staff of the Ministry.

Dr. Bio-Ibrahim, who expressed concern over the poor level of staff welfare, said that timely payment of travel allowances and other essentials will be prioritised to ensure optimal performance of staff

Emphasising the significance of the management meeting, the Minister said that there is a critical need for regular monthly deliberations to enhance the ministry’s productivity and strengthen teamwork among staff.

“Teamwork in the Ministry is of paramount importance, especially in implementing policies for youth development, as the Ministry plays an important role in securing and shaping the future of Nigeria. “ She added.

Speaking further, the Minister announced plans to host a ministerial retreat, saying that the purpose is to cascade the insights gained from the cabinet retreat and to sign a performance bond which aligns with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration.

She, therefore, urged all departments to provide periodic updates on their activities to ensure transparency and progress in the ministry.

Dr. Bio-Ibrahim noted that the paucity of funds in the ministry is hindering lots of activities but assured that the management is making an effort to ensure the success of the upcoming retreat and other activities of the Ministry

The Honourable Minister of State, Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, in his remarks, expressed optimism that the outcome of the meeting will be purposeful. He pledged his support for enhanced staff welfare.
“Thank you all for having us. I believe that the outcome will be fruitful and contribute significantly to the government. We are committed to doing our best and ensuring that we do the right thing at the right time.” he said.

Minister of State for Youth Development Mr Ayodele Olawande

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed emphasised that the purpose of the meeting is to review the activities of the ministry to track up the programs, to access performances and at the end of the day to ensure that programs are undertaken in line with the agenda of the present administration.

“As you all know that we have very competent and experience staff who are always available to undertake and implement policies of this administration and with the support and direction of leadership of the minister and the minister of state, I want to assure you that we will live up to expectations by achieving the mandate of the ministry“

The Permanent Secretary gave the assurance that the Ministry will implement the digitalisation of the Federal Civil Service implementation plan 2025.

“The digitalisation plan with its six (6) pillars, will come to bear to assist us in undertaking our programs by training and re-training the staff in order to enhance the value of our staff” He said.