By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Military has been conducting successful operations against terrorists across the federation and perpetrators of oil theft.

According to Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, a total of 39 terrorists have been neutralized, 157 terrorists have been arrested, and 16 individuals involved in oil theft have also been apprehended.

Additionally, the military has rescued 109 kidnapped hostages and has taken action to prevent oil theft. These efforts demonstrate the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to maintaining security and combating criminal activities in the country.

He noted that troops recovered 55 assorted weapons and 96 assorted ammunition.

According to him, the breakdown as follows: 12 AK47 rifles, one GPMG, one HK21 gun, one FN rifle loaded with 5 rounds of NATO ammo, 2 Dane guns, 3 fabricated rifles, one fabricated pistol, 3 locally made pistols, 11 AK47 magazines, 71 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 22 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 2 rounds of 9mm ammo, one cartridge, one bandolier, 7 rounds 7.62mm special empty cases, 24 motorcycles, 13 mobile phones, 10 bicycles and the sum of Eight Hundred and Eighty One Thousand Seven Hundred Naira (N881,700.00).

The Director added that troops in the Niger Delta area discovered and destroyed 71 dugout pits, 36 boats, 83 storage tanks, 5 vehicles, 4 motorcycles, 58 cooking ovens, 5 pumping machines, 3 generators,3 speedboats and 34 illegal refining sites.

Also, troops recovered 569,400 litres of stolen crude oil, 486,000 litres of illegally refined AGO and 59,500 litres of PMS.

He said that “the military will continue to pursue aggressive military operations against violent extremist groups seeking to undermine the security of the country and conduct violence against the people.”

Accordingly, the Armed Forces remains focused on its core mission and would continually make adjustments along the way to better protect citizens, while isolating and annihilating those groups constituting a security nuisance to the country.

Meanwhile, a minute’s silence was observed for the Former Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Bernard Onyeuko who died on the 26th of August, 2023 and other officers who lost their lives.

A public affairs analyst and commentator MacDaniel Mark has said the statement by Femi Fani Kayode about the coup in Gabon, a diversionary tactics.

Speaking recently Mark said “I find the statement by Femi Fani-Kayode about the coup detat in Gabon highly diversionary. He was deliberately and desperately trying to divert attention from his sins and those of his gang members at home. He spoke out of the fear of nemesis, but unfortunately for him, kama cannot be manipulated.
For the records, the coup in Gabon wasn’t against France as he would like to have it painted, but against corrupt and avaricious politicians that seek political power at all costs just to plunder their nations and impoverish the citizenry. The coup was against political thieves and mandate robbers like him who have brazenly desecrated the sacred altar of democracy across Africa in the name of their self-seeking ambition. It was against political charlatans, election riggers and economic saboteurs who have for long constituted the greatest bane to political stability and economic development in the continent of Africa. It was against a committee of political vultures like him who have for decades, been feeding fat on the bodies of the citizens they have slain through poverty, hunger and starvation. It was against a group of soulless and ruthless political knaves like him who rode their way to power on the wings of stolen mandate.
Who is Femi Fani-Kayode to talk about the unfolding events in Gabon while he and his henchmen back here in Nigeria represent the very repressive, corrupt, immoral and evil political gang that rigged their ways into power in the recently concluded presidential election? It was against his ilks the coup detat in Gabon took place and not against France as he would like to have people believe. It was against shameless political thugs like him. One wonders what would have become of him by now if he were in Gabon.
The force of truth once ignited by the right time and season is unstoppable, and it will continue to move with atomic impact until it totally reverses every seeming victory of falsehood. Fani-Kayode and his ilk should hide their faces in shame if they have any vestige of decency left in their egregiously battered reputation”.

A public affairs analyst and commentator MacDaniel Mark has said the statement by Femi Fani Kayode about the coup in Gabon, a diversionary tactics.

Speaking recently Mark said “I find the statement by Femi Fani-Kayode about the coup detat in Gabon highly diversionary. He was deliberately and desperately trying to divert attention from his sins and those of his gang members at home. He spoke out of the fear of nemesis, but unfortunately for him, kama cannot be manipulated.
For the records, the coup in Gabon wasn’t against France as he would like to have it painted, but against corrupt and avaricious politicians that seek political power at all costs just to plunder their nations and impoverish the citizenry. The coup was against political thieves and mandate robbers like him who have brazenly desecrated the sacred altar of democracy across Africa in the name of their self-seeking ambition. It was against political charlatans, election riggers and economic saboteurs who have for long constituted the greatest bane to political stability and economic development in the continent of Africa. It was against a committee of political vultures like him who have for decades, been feeding fat on the bodies of the citizens they have slain through poverty, hunger and starvation. It was against a group of soulless and ruthless political knaves like him who rode their way to power on the wings of stolen mandate.
Who is Femi Fani-Kayode to talk about the unfolding events in Gabon while he and his henchmen back here in Nigeria represent the very repressive, corrupt, immoral and evil political gang that rigged their ways into power in the recently concluded presidential election? It was against his ilks the coup detat in Gabon took place and not against France as he would like to have people believe. It was against shameless political thugs like him. One wonders what would have become of him by now if he were in Gabon.
The force of truth once ignited by the right time and season is unstoppable, and it will continue to move with atomic impact until it totally reverses every seeming victory of falsehood. Fani-Kayode and his ilk should hide their faces in shame if they have any vestige of decency left in their egregiously battered reputation”.

The Nigerian Youth Congress has called on the leadership of Independent National Electoral Commission INEC to as a matter of urgency purge her staff in kogi state, to rekindle the confidence of the electorate in the system.

Similarly, Prof. S. Muhammad Adam, SAN, the Supervising National Commissioner should be advised not to further allow the influence of his marriage to a lady from Kogi State, with the trust bestowed on him by President and Nigeria people at large.

to supervise elections in the state. The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) believes that this could compromise his objectivity and impartiality in carrying out his duties.

The NYC’s call for an overhaul of INEC in Kogi State stems from concerns about the credibility and integrity of the electoral process in the state. They argue that the current staff in INEC Kogi State may have been compromised or influenced by external factors, leading to a lack of trust among the electorate.

By purging the staff and implementing new measures, the NYC hopes to restore confidence in the electoral system and ensure that future elections in Kogi State are free, fair, and transparent. They believe that this is crucial for the overall democratic process in Nigeria.

Regarding Prof. S. Muhammad Adam, the NYC raises concerns about a potential conflict of interest due to his marriage to a lady from Kogi State. They suggest that this personal connection may compromise his ability to carry out his supervisory role objectively. The NYC advises him to distance himself from any decisions or actions that could be influenced by this relationship.

It’s important to note that the information provided is based on a hypothetical situation you presented, and I don’t have specific knowledge of any recent developments or events beyond my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. Therefore, it’s advisable to refer to the latest news and official statements for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the matter.

The NYC said, the call became necessary to forestall the pitfall of some of its staff in the conduct of November 16, 2019 kogi state gubernatorial election, and Presidential National Assembly and state elections of February 25, 2023 and March 25,2023 respectively.
In a press release made available to journalists in Lokoja on Friday, the spokesperson of the Youth group Comrade Alfa Ebune described the outcome of the elections in kogi state as the worst in the history of elections in the country.
The statement decried the continued retention of those  officials in the state identified to have compromised their integrity in those elections.

He commended the former National Chairman, Professor Atahiru Jega, for the introduction of NYSC members as polling unit officials, Members of Academic staff of tertiary institutions as collation/returning officers as well as its permanent staff as Returning and Collation officers, saying the policy  gave credibility to the elections.
The statement disclosed  that not less than ten staff were redeployed to other states due to public outcry,  wondered why majority of her staff at the local Government Councils who are  the  principal executors of the elections were let unattended to in spite of the public outcry demanding for their transfer on account of suspected high level abuse of office particularly:   Sani Wase, Emmanuel Ihunga, Joy Allah, Grace Abalaka and Raliat Mohammed that reasons for their retention appears strange! hiding under marriage as indigene is not an excuse after all other married men from other states are also here.  No matter how hard the Commission tries to convince the people of its ability to conduct free, fair and credible November 11 governorship election involvement of these Electoral Officers will not guarantee the desired results.
He applauded the courage of the National Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu for his courage in  transferring the erstwhile Administrative Secretary who was believed to have been neck deep in malfeasance.
The statement urged the management to totally clean the remaining bad eggs, known as   “Chips Of the Old Block.” who were not affected by the  recent purge.
According to the statement,” The impression created by the former  Administrative Secretary, Engr. Tanko is the fact that the Resident Electoral Commissioner,Dr. Hale Longpet was the architect behind most of the notorious activities of the Commission in Kogi State, but our investigation revealed that the REC was completely not in the picture of the whole issues.  Rather, it was the Administrative Secretary who was actually the brain behind the atrocities of the Commission against free, fair credible and transparent election, and was the Commission’s wolf in cheap clothing.  

“Now that the arrow heads are gone, we humbly demand that all the left behind Electoral Officers who  participated in 2015 General and off-season Elections to date should be drop immediately and should be made to fully step aside from any involvement in the forthcoming  November 11, 2023, due to loss of confidence” He demanded.

While assuring the electorate that a free fair and credible election is still possible under  Dr. Hale Longpet administration , urged him to  prove his worth by putting round pegs  in  round holes and to maintain high level neutrality through out the electioneering process

The federal Government of Nigeria is set to cover no fewer than fifteen million households under its  updated social safety net project tagged “Conditional Cash Transfer” CCT.

Rhoda Ishaku Iliya,
Deputy Director, Information, FMHAPA, disclosed this in a press release she signed on Thursday 31st August, 2023.

According to the statement, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, made this known when  she met  the World Bank Country Director, Mr. Shubham Chaudhuri at the bank ‘s headquarters in Abuja.

The Minister expressed gratitude to the World bank Country Director for the continuous support  extended to Nigeria especially in the areas of Education, health, agriculture, private sector development, social services among others.

Edu reminded the world bank team of the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that led to the renaming  the Ministry to Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to directly focus on the people and lift  them out of poverty.

“The flexibility of World Bank to accommodate the re-focused agenda of the Ministry to eliminate poverty is a welcome development.

“The  Ministry is  preparing to host the Humanitarian Dialogue as well as creation of the Renewed Hope Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund (HPATF).

“The Trust Fund is expected to come from fFederal Government budgetary provision and allocation, Development partners, international community, taxes, private sector contribution among others.

“The Ministry need  the support of World bank to verify and expand the National Social Register (NSR).and  offer your technical support in order to work with the Ministry to achieve Mr President’s target” she stated.

Speaking on the visit,the world Bank Country Director,Mr Shubham Chaudhuri, pledged to provide all the needed support for the new Minister to deliver on the new focus of the Ministry.

“The proposed disbursement of $800M for the Social Safety Nets Project will commence soonest.

“We will support the verification and scaling up of the National Social Register, provide technical support in the preparation of the Ministry to attend UNGA and give specialized backing for the establishment of the Trust Fund”

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, has solicited the support of the Bill and Millanda Gates Foundation to address humanitarian crisis and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.

According to Rhoda Ishaku Iliya, Deputy Director Information, FMHAPA in a press release she signed on the 31st August, 2023, the Minister made the call when she received a delegation from the foundation in her office in Abuja.

According to the Minister, Nigeria has 16 million people facing humanitarian crisis caused by natural and man-made disasters, insecurity and flooding.

This is in addition to refugees and Internally Displaced Persons.

The Minister therefore, called for partnership with development partners, donor bodies and the private sector to get people out of humanitarian crisis and poverty in line with the federal government agenda.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to alleviating poverty  in Nigeria in line with the Sustainable Development Goal 1,2 and 3 of the 2030 target. Our ministry is working assiduously to implement the presidential directive and we cannot do it alone without partners like you.

“ Please linkup  this  Ministry to other strategic partners that  could support the country’s  fight against poverty in Nigeria” she added.

The Country Director, Bill&Millanda Gates Foundation, Jeremie Zoungrana, pledged the foundation’s willingness to partner with the Ministry and assured that it will use its wide contact to link up the ministry with strategic partners in specific areas to eradicate poverty in Nigeria.

By Emmanuel Daudu

Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), the Minister of Aviation & Aerospace Development, paid a visit to the headquarters of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and was received by the Director General, Prof Mansur Bako Matazu. During his visit, the Minister was given a tour of some important facilities of the Agency.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) is responsible for providing meteorological services, weather forecasting, and climate information to support various sectors such as aviation, agriculture, water resources, and disaster management in Nigeria. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of aviation operations, as weather conditions have a significant impact on flight operations.

By visiting the NiMet headquarters and touring key facilities, Minister Festus Keyamo likely aimed to familiarize himself with the Agency’s operations, infrastructure, and capabilities. This firsthand experience and interaction with the Director General and staff can help the Minister gain insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field of meteorology and how it relates to aviation and aerospace development in Nigeria.

Such visits by government officials to relevant agencies are common and can contribute to a better understanding of the industry, promote collaboration, and provide a platform for discussing policy matters and potential improvements in the sector.

As part of the tour, the Minister visited the Central Forecast Office (CFO), where he was briefed on how data is generated, transmitted, and translated to forecasts and other products.

The Minister also visited the Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) Unit as well as the state -of – the -arts weather studio, where he presented an update on today’s weather.
In his remarks after the tour, the Minister, who was impressed by the size and process of operations in NiMet noted “the operations of NiMet are so massive and I am impressed by what I have seen in NiMet, I am impressed by their operations and one can only wish them well”, he said.

By Raychel Omaga

The UN-Nations Habitat Ambassador to Nigeria and Life Member, International Chartered World Learned Society, ICWLS, USA, Dr. Raymond Edoh, JP, has congratulated Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the minister of Interior, Tahir Mamman, Minister of Education, Minister of Works, David Umahi, Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister, Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu on their ministerial appointment, says they would deliver beyond everyone’s imagination.

The UN-Habitat Ambassador in a congratulatory message he signed on Monday and made available to journalists by his Executive Media Assistant, Emmanuel Daudu, harped on the capacity of the ministers pointing out that going by precedence, the ministers have served the country in various capacities and their ability to deliver on their mandates wouldn’t be a challenge.

The message reads in parts, “The meritorious appointments of Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the minister of Interior, Tahir Mamman, Minister of Education, Minister of Works, David Umahi, Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister, Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu as a significant step towards bringing about positive change in the country. These individuals, with their expertise and qualifications, will make a difference in their respective areas of responsibility and contribute to the nation’s progress.

“Their appointments would bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and effective leadership to the helm of affairs. The individuals chosen for these positions possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to tackle the challenges facing their ministries.

“Without missing words, they will prioritize the country’s development, address pressing issues, and implement policies and initiatives that will improve the lives of the citizens. The expectation is that they will work diligently, transparently, and with a strong sense of accountability to fulfill their national assignments.

“It is important to note that the success of these appointments relies not only on the capability and dedication of the individuals but also on the support they receive from the governmental system, civil servants, and the Nigerian people as a whole. Collaboration, effective governance, and the commitment to serving the nation’s interests will be crucial in achieving the desired acrobatic change that Nigerians anticipate.

“Sure, there is optimism surrounding the capacity and capability of the appointed ministers. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s confidence in their abilities is definitely a positive sign. Encouraging the youth to support these ministers is an important step towards fostering collaboration and inclusiveness in governance.

“Having ministers who are youth-accommodating and friendly can be beneficial in addressing the concerns and aspirations of young people. It is essential that the ministers create an environment where the youth can actively participate in decision-making processes and contribute their valuable insights and perspectives. By being accessible, open-minded, and receptive to the needs of the younger generation, the ministers can build trust and engage the youth in constructive dialogue.

“Furthermore, youth-friendly policies and initiatives should be prioritized to address the unique challenges faced by young people, such as unemployment, education, and social empowerment. Investing in youth development programs, entrepreneurship opportunities, and skills training can provide the necessary support for young individuals to thrive and contribute to the nation’s progress.

“Overall, fostering a positive relationship between the appointed ministers and the youth is crucial for effective governance and long-term development. With collaborative efforts, inclusive policies, and open communication, it is possible to create an environment where the voices and aspirations of the youth are heard and valued.

“The call for ministers to uphold the trust of the Nigerian people and prioritize the interest of the masses in their official duties is an important one. Public officials have a responsibility to act in the best interest of the citizens they serve and to promote the growth and unity of the nation.

“By doing the right thing, ministers are expected to demonstrate transparency, accountability, and integrity in their actions. They should make decisions that are based on the welfare of the people, ensuring that policies and initiatives are designed to benefit the broader population. This includes addressing issues such as poverty, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and job creation.

“Furthermore, ministers should be mindful of the diverse needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people. They should engage in inclusive governance, seeking input from different segments of society and considering the perspectives of marginalized groups. By fostering unity and inclusiveness, ministers can contribute to a stronger and more cohesive nation.

“It is crucial for ministers to be diligent and dedicated in their roles, taking their responsibilities seriously and working towards the betterment of the country. This involves being proactive, responsive, and accountable to the people they serve. Regular evaluation and monitoring of their performance can help ensure that they are meeting the expectations of the Nigerian people and fulfilling their duties effectively,” Edoh added.

Earlier, Dr. Raymond Edoh lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his resilience in making Nigeria a better place, pointing out that the Nigerian youths are solidly behind him and his renewed hope agenda.
Similarly, he assured Tinubu of his persistent support in his administration as he pleaded loyalty.

……As ICWLS Boss Commends Groups On Invitation, Harps On Inter-faith Harmony For Peaceful Co-existence In The Country.

…….. VC CUICI, USA To Attend Event With First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Dame Patience Jonathan Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Dein Of Agbor Kingdom,  Others In Lagos.

UNESCO Laureate & ice-Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc in USA, which is Teaching and Research Hospital Campuses located in Santa Cruz Province in Argentina, Brazil South America and Spain with official partners constituents Campuses at government regulated Universities world wide and online operation Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, has lauded the efforts of stakeholders on building religious tolerance, Inter-faith harmony as Oyo State Government, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), a faith based organization called Christian Youths In Politics (CYP) invites a Muslim faithful and World renowned Professor of Computer Science, Information And Communication Technology, to attend the forthcoming 2023 Int’l Peace Conference in Lagos to foster peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

In a statement today being on Wednesday, August 30, 2023,  personally sighed by  Prof  Sir Bashiru Aremu which was made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State capital by  UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistance On Media, Publicity & Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as CUICI VC Commends groups on excellent Initiatives for a united Nigeria.

Prof Aremu, Osun State born global educator, The Global Professor with Five Stars from Europe, The Holder of UNESCO Prize in Science and Technology with specialization in Creativity and Intellectualism as a World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor and  is also His Royal Highness (HRH) Duke Of The Kingdom Of Atlantis In Singapore World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society, ICWLS. He commended CYP Religion International and  other collaborators for the all embracing contents, contexts of the 2023 Int’l Peace Conference to be anchored on the theme: “A Salute To Peaceful Co-existence In The County”.

UNESCO Laureate noted that the  groups’ recognition, invitation of stakeholders from the three major religions in Nigeria: Christian, Muslim and Traditional Institution depict hope for a new Nigeria towards chatting a new course which he said will engender inclusivity, equality, and fairness amongst all faiths as well as promote a robust peaceful coexistence for us Nigerians, Africans and  humanity to  live together in harmony as brothers and sisters in the country and the world at large.

Prof Aremu while enjoining all  stakeholders across faiths in the country; Christians, Muslims and Traditional Worshippers to work together to promote National cohesion, peaceful coexistence in the country Commended Support of Oyo State Government, Christian Association of Nigeria, Christian Youths In Politics (CYP) Religion Connect International on invitation and  recognition of other critical stakeholders in the country for attendance.

Those critical stakeholders and top dignitaries from Nigeria, Africa and the  rest of the world to grace the event by 9:00am prompt at Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria on October 28, 2023 included amongst others are:  CAN President, Archbishop Daniel C. Okon, Ooni of Ife, Former Emir of Kano and Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria Sanusi Lamido Sanusi Kalhlifa Sanusi II The Spiritual Leader of Tijanniyah Sufi Order of Nigeria, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Dame Patience Jonathan.

Others are: Dein Of Agbor Kingdom, Delta State, First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke, His Royal Majesty, Chief Ifayemi Eleburu Ifa Priest and Autho ibon, Osundagbonu, Dr. Micheal Tchidime, High Chief Ifasegun Openoluwa Elegushi to mention but a few.

Following a detailed and rigorous quality management audit, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has acquired the recertification of the International Standard Organization ISO 9001:2015 and the International Standard Organization ISO 29990:2010 for the provision of aeronautical meteorological services and capacity building at Yr Regional Training Centre (RTC) in Lagos and MBMIST in Katsina respectively.

The Director General /CEO of NIMet, Prof. Mansur Bako Matazu disclosed this earlier today in his office.
Speaking Prof. Matazu explained ” We took the challenge as far back as 2013 and we have been maintaining this 3-year certificate and we just acquired recertification of ISO 9001:2015 for aeronautical meteorological services in the six major international airports in the country. We are working hard to extend it to 10 more airports across the country.”
On recertification for capacity training, the DG said ” We have also acquired another recertification for ISO 29990:2010 for training. Remember NiMet runs two training institutes like polytechnics, one in Lagos the RTC, which is a World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) accredited training centre  and we also have the Muhammadu Buhari Meteorological Institute of Science and Technology (MBMIST), which is accredited by the National Board for Technical Education ( NBTE) as a training centre in Katsina and offers Diploma. So we have acquired ISO 29990:2010 for training on all aspects of meteorology, applied meteorology including climate change”, he explained.

NiMet is the first met service on the African continent to have acquired this certification. Presently the Agency is serving as an auditor for some African countries like Malawi, and Gambia. It is of note that NiMet has also been approached by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to assist and guide them in acquiring this certification.

According to Prof. Matazu, the implication of this recertification is like the stamp of standardization of service delivery by an international organization and gives a guarantee of the precision and efficiency of NiMe’s products and services.

Prof Matazu revealed that his Agency is exposing its operations to quality management systems and even transforming to Safety Management Systems (SMS) across all its operations in the country.

He assured that NiMet is striving to do more and is open to assisting other MDAs of government to pass through this process.