Africa Security Investigation News

By Emmanuel Daudu

For a start, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta and the Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Arabi have penned a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly work towards accelerating the digitisation reform process in government.

According to Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs, in a press release on 1st August, 2023,
Speaking at the event, which took place at the NCC’s Head Office in Abuja recently, Danbatta said collaboration between the two organizations is consistent with NCC’s Strategic Vision Plan (SVP) to  partner and collaborate with relevant stakeholders.

He noted that the MoU will enhance efficiency and productivity as it adequately captured the roles of enabling policies and implementing institutions, which are key features of digital transformation.

He also said the Commission will continue to drive broadband penetration, which provides the backbone upon which such process will thrive.

According him, “It is for this reason that the Nigerian National Broadband Plan document, made adequate provisions for the deployment of broadband infrastructure across the country. It is this same infrastructure that will drive services that will result in the transformation of governance as well as the key services sector in the economy,” he said.

Danbatta said at the completion of the process, governance will be paperless, chief executive officers would be able to deal with their mails without necessarily signing most things offline because virtually everything will be done online.

“Indeed, the transition will be worth it, as the process is associated with efficiency, which naturally results from operating a paperless system of governance or administration at the level of entities such as the Bureau for Public Service Reforms and the Nigerian Communications Commission,” he said.

“We attach a lot of importance to the way and manner we collaborate with sister agencies of government to give translation or to ensure the actualisation of that important item of our Strategic Vision Plan that is strategic collaboration and partnership, it explains why we are signing this an Memorandum of Understanding.

In his response, Arabi revealed that the Bureau took the decision to work with the Commission in driving the reforms for the adoption of emerging technologies as a result of NCC’s  emergence as the first organization to win the  Platinum Award of BPSR, exceeding expectations in the way it conducts its businesses.

“Historically speaking, this partnership had begun in 2016 when the Commission became the first agency of government to undergo the BPSR online Self-Assessment Tool (SAT). Remarkably, at the end of the assessment, NCC emerged as the first agency to be rated Platinum Organisation by the Tool, having exceptionally exceeded expectations in all good practices built around nine domain areas” Dasuki stated.

Underscoring his submission, Arabi said, “Given the successful outcomes of the workshops and conferences NCC organized in collaboration with BPSR on the Distributed Ledger Technologies (the Blockchain) in 2022 in Lagos and Abuja, the MoU is providing a window of opportunity to consolidate efforts to deliver strong and resilient public service that will lead a well-functioning federal system wherein zero tolerance for corruption is made practicable.

“The MoU will also help in fostering of a high degree of cooperation between Federal and State governments in improving service delivery and addressing Transparency International Corruption Perception Index to significantly improved safe and secured environment that encourages economic growth and investment.”

Arabi said that efforts to improve equitable and unhindered access to government information and services through the Federal Government’s Scorecard for ranking websites of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are producing a direct impact on the socio-economic development of the country.

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr. Solomon Arase
has described the late former Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Tafa Balogun as a great leader and mentor whose strength, courage, inspection and kindness, provided immense opportunities for all those who knew and worked with him while he was alive.

According to Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and  Public Relations in a press release on
Wednesday, August 2nd 2023, he said, Dr. Arase revealed this while eulogising Alhaji Tafa Balogun on the first year remembrance anniversary of his death.

He also described him as a strong, dynamic and hardworking boss who invested hugely in the lives of many vulnerable and underprivileged Nigerian in the pursuit of justice.

According to the PSC chairman, Alhaji Balogun was one of the greatest persons he’d been opportuned to serve under his leadership, adding that even after his demise, his good deeds still speak for him both in and out of the Police Force.

“I am grateful to have had him as a boss. He was an essential part of my career as a police officer and I remember him always with pride and honour”.

Dr. Arase further stressed that though the loss of Balogun can never be recovered, he prays he would find the reward of leading a kind life as he dwells happily with the Saints in heaven.

He also enjoined the family to be comforted in the faith that Alhaji Tafa Balogun is in a better place, and prayed for the continued repose of his soul.

By Emmanuel Daudu

Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Prof Umar Garba Danbatta, has advised businesses to adjust to the potentials of disruptive technologies which have been adopted across the globe for enhanced productivity and sustainability.

According to Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs in a press release signed on Sunday, he told industry leaders and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) innovators, who gathered at the 2023 edition of the Information, Communication, Technology and Telecommunications (ICTEL) expo organised by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in Lagos, that advancements made in the global ICT industry have become business and enhancing.

Danbatta, who was represented by the Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau at the Commission, Mr. Alkasim Umar, said technology has always played a significant role in shaping the world people live in. He, however, said that in recent years, advancements have accelerated at an unprecedented rate.

The NCC helmsman said as the world grapples with the 4th Industrial Revolution driven by the Internet, advancements in many facets of ICTs, are fundamentally changing all aspects of people’s lives and reshaping economic, social and cultural paradigms across the world.

He listed such disruptive technologies to include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain Technology, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Fifth Generation (5G) and other emerging technologies which have demonstrated the potential of transforming industries and business models.

“Today, we find ourselves amid a digital revolution, where the boundaries between physical and virtual worlds are blurring.  So, as we navigate the era of tech disruptions, it is crucial for businesses to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing landscape. Companies that are agile and willing to experiment with these emerging technologies will gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries,” Danbatta said.

The NCC CEO further assured that the NCC’s strategic management plan represents the Commission’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to transform industries and drive positive change. “By embracing tech disruption, we are empowering individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive in the digital age. Together, let us build a Nigeria where technology is a catalyst for inclusive growth, innovation flourishes, and the benefits of connectivity reach every Nigerian,” the EVC said.

President of LCCI, Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, who appreciated the Commission’s efforts in providing a predictable telecom regulatory environment, noted that the theme of this year’s edition of the ICTEL Expo had been carefully chosen considering the far-reaching impact disruptive technologies are having on businesses around the world.

NCC’s Zonal Controller, Lagos, Engr. Yomi Arowosafe, who was part of the team to the well-attended ICT Expo, received an LCCI Appreciation Award presented to Prof. Danbatta, by the Vice President of LCCI, Leye Kupoluyi, in recognition of Danbatta’s contribution towards the success of the 2023 ICTEL Expo held on July 25 – 26, 2023 at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

As IGP Orders Watertight Security Across Nigeria, Appeals for Calm

In a press release signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra,
Force Public Relations Officer,
Force Headquarters,
Abuja, on Tuesday, said, the Acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, is deeply concerned about recent developments regarding planned nationwide protests by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC). While being mindful of the right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in our Constitution, the IGP urges all parties involved to ensure that the planned demonstrations are conducted in a peaceful manner to prevent being hijacked by miscreants, owing to the previous ugly experiences of such protests in most major cosmopolitan cities in the country. The IGP, however, acknowledges the grievances raised by the labour unions and the importance of constructive dialogue, which is sine qua none, in addressing these issues.

In light of this, the IGP orders the Commissioners of Police in charge of various commands, and supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, to engage in fruitful discussions with the NLC/TUC leadership to foster understanding and reach common grounds on the planned protests. A peaceful and coordinated approach is crucial to achieving meaningful solutions and preventing any form of violence or disruptions to public order, should the protests persist.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens during the period of the planned protests as all necessary measures to facilitate the peaceful conduct of these demonstrations have been emplaced.

However, it is hereby reaffirmed that any attempt by miscreants to exploit the situation for violent purposes viz-a-viz vandalism, gangsterism, and extortion will be met with firm, professional and commensurate lawful approach. The Police will not tolerate any act that threatens the peace and well-being of our country.

In light of the potential challenges posed by the planned protests, the Nigeria Police Force is fully prepared to deploy all available resources to maintain law and order and to protect the lives and property of our citizens. The IGP therefore calls on all officers to be vigilant, professional, and uphold the highest standards of conduct during this period.

The Police boss urges all stakeholders, including the NLC, TUC, and other civil society groups, to embrace peaceful dialogue as the most effective means of resolving grievances, while also reemphasizing that the Police is committed to ensuring a secure and conducive environment for open dialogue, constructive engagement and mutual understanding for a seamless exercise of civil rights.

By Aliyu Juwairat

The United Nations Habitat Ambassador to Nigeria, and Secretary General, of the Nigerian Youth Congress, Dr. Raymond Edoh has expressed satisfaction and confidence in the beliefs of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Nigeria’s economy stressing that the youth are strongly behind him in his strong mission of holistically resharpening the Nigeria economy.

The youth leader who made this statement immediately after the National Broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today, the 31st of July, 2023 in clear terms described him as the masses’ President.

Dr. Raymond Edoh, in his words, “I have never seen a patriotic President in the history of Africa like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria.

“His national Broadcast to Nigerians has actually shown his kind of leader. And I am proud to say that we the youths are fully behind him. I have all these while, believed in his capacity knowing too well that his leadership precedents in Lagos State remained an indelible mark that stands the test of time and had never been beaten by any world leader. I repeat, his records have never been beaten by any world leader.

“Now that we have known his stand, we will do all it takes in the youth sphere to enlighten others and share this good mission of a better economy to also know and key into it for the better Nigeria that we have all clamored for”, he added.

While making references to President Tinubu’s speech, Edoh said, “According to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and I quote, “…The subsidy cost us trillions of Naira yearly. Such a vast sum of money would have been better spent on public transportation, healthcare, schools, housing, and even national security. Instead, it was being funneled into the deep pockets and lavish bank accounts of a select group of individuals.

“This group had amassed so much wealth and power that they became a serious threat to the fairness of our economy and the integrity of our democratic governance. To be blunt, Nigeria could never become the society it was intended to be as long as such small, powerful yet unelected groups hold enormous influence over our political economy and the institutions that govern it.

“The whims of the few should never hold dominant sway over the hopes and aspirations of the many. If we are to be a democracy, the people and not the power of money must be sovereign.

” Also, the multiple exchange rate system that had been established became nothing but a highway of currency speculation. It diverted money that should have been used to create jobs, build factories and businesses for millions of people. Our national wealth was doled on favourable terms to a handful of people who have been made filthy rich simply by moving money from one hand to another. This too was extremely unfair.

” I had promised to reform the economy for the long-term good by fighting the major imbalances that had plagued our economy. Ending the subsidy and the preferential exchange rate system were key to this fight. This fight is to define the fate and future of our nation. Much is in the balance.

“To strengthen the manufacturing sector, increase its capacity to expand and create good-paying jobs, we are going to spend N75 billion between July 2023 and March 2024. Our objective is to fund 75 enterprises with great potential to kick-start sustainable economic growth, accelerate structural transformation and improve productivity. Each of the 75 manufacturing enterprises will be able to access N1 Billion credit at 9% per annum with a maximum of 60 months repayment for long term loans and 12 months for working capital.

“I assure you my fellow country men and women that we are exiting the darkness to enter a new and glorious dawn.”

“This simply means the President knows what he is up to and all aligns with the yearning of every single Nigerian youth both home and in the diaspora.

“Assuredly, we are pledging our unalloyed support for this administration because we are hopeful in the Tinubu’s led administration.

While advising Nigerians to be patient with the government as times are hard tasked the youths to abstain from activities that can cause further harm to the citizens, stating that they should exercise patience with the government as he stressed that the country would be great again.
“With the Tinubu government, Nigeria is funneled in the right direction, and all we need to do as Nigerians is to remain forbearing and keep hope alive as the better days we have been clamoring for are just around the corner.

“As youths, we should be clever and envisage a better nation in our minds that we are not used to causing violence in the country. Insecurity-wise, I urge us all to be sensitive and report any threat to the security of the nation to security agencies for prompt action”, he added.

In the framework of the reduction of illicit trafficking and the fight against the proliferation of Small arms and Light Weapons (SALW), the ECOWAS Commission organized a Governmental Expert Meeting in Lagos, Nigeria from 25th to 27th July 2023.

The main objective was to review and validate the draft study report and guidelines on civilian possession and licensing of arms based on the obligations imposed by article 14 of the ECOWAS Convention on SALW, Their Ammunition and Other Related Materials. A study was commissioned to examine national practices in relation to authorizations, permits and licensing of civilians bearing arms currently in place in each member states. The study generated pertinent evidenced – based data that needed to be verified, reviewed and validated by governmental experts. 

This meeting attracted relevant government experts with requisite experiences in law, law enforcement and arms control and it was preceded by independent experts meeting that took place in April 2023 in Abuja.  Thus, this meeting was to further expose the documents to additional scrutiny as well as to secure the national ownership of the entire process.

It was in this regard, that the consultants, FABA Consulting, provided presentations of the outcomes of the study as well as the proposed guidelines for civilian possession licensing template. Participants included representatives from the National Commissions of SALW (NATCOMs), security experts from various Police Forces across the region and technical partners

At the opening ceremony, four statements were delivered by representatives of Nigeria Police Force (NPF), European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, ECOWAS Commission, as well as the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW). In his opening remarks, Commissioner of Police, Salman Dogo the representative of the NPF extended a warm welcome to all the delegates, expressing his sincere wishes for a successful and fruitful deliberation.

The EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, represented by Ms Celine Lhoste reaffirmed the commitment of EU to continually support ECOWAS in its efforts to prevent and manage security threats in the region. The EU acknowledged that the region has been facing conflicts that challenge the legitimacy of its Member States, impeding sustainable development. Concerns were raised about activities of criminal groups, conflicts and other social deprivations arising from misuse of arms in communities. To address these challenges, the EU underscored the OCWAR-T project as portent tool in support of ECOWAS and region at large and hence, the outcome of the study report on civilian possession of arms which aims to operationalize article 14 of the ECOWAS Convention.

In his submission, Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security represented by Mr. Ahoba Piex Joseph, welcomed delegates to the meeting and stressed the importance of validating the guideline to enhance systematic monitoring of civilians possessing weapons.  He pointed out that the draft regional guidelines symbolize the region’s collective commitment to combat organized crime and trafficking, fostering peace and security. He urged all delegates to approach the discussions with an open mind, cooperation, and determination to find practical and effective solutions.

Before declaring the meeting opened, the representative of NCCSALW, Commissioner of Police, A.N. Thomas, highlighted on the widespread challenges of SALW proliferation in the region, emphasizing its connections to trans-national organized crime. He noted that the meeting serves as a valuable platform to collaboratively develop frameworks, statutory regulations, and policy directives to combat the issue of SALW effectively. He acknowledged and commended ECOWAS for patronizing indigenous home – grown African resources with the selection of FABA Consulting firm for this very important study

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Resident Representative of the ECOWAS in the Gambia, Her Excellency Mrs. Miatta Lily French, who was represented by Mr. Claude Kondor, stated that ECOWAS has been at the forefront in the search of sustainable peace and security within its Member States.  “Without peace and security, development and economic integration of the entire region will be very difficult to achieve”, he stated.

Mr. Kondor revealed that various protocols have been articulated and adopted to address the numerous security challenges that transformed the ECOWAS region into an epicenter of warlords and conflict entrepreneurs – including the 1999 Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security; the Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance of 2001; the 2008 ECOWAS Conflict Prevention Framework and other key documents.

He highlighted that the objectives and expected outcomes of the In-Mission training are appropriate in equipping staff officers to carry out the correct operational procedures relevant to their roles and to ensure that Operating Procedures of both ECOWAS Headquarters and the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF) Mission Headquarters are harmonized, standardized, and documented to simplify information flow and provide sufficient access for staff officers.

The meeting concluded with closing statements, expressing appreciation to all participants for the quality of their inputs and for adopting the study report and the guidelines/templates.

This training was organized by the ECOWAS Commission through the OCWAR-T project, which is co- funded by the European Union (EU) and the OCWAR-T project, which is co- funded by the European Union (EU) and by the Germany Federal Foreign Office.

By Gloria Yakubu Daudu

The Force Commander, Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali has paid a maiden operational visit to Headquarters Sector 1 in Mora, Far North Region of Cameroon. The visit was held today 31 July 2023.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Military Public Information Officer, during the visit the Force Commander handed over some MNJTF completed Quick Impact Projects in Amtchiale, Kagalerie and Tousky areas of Mora Municipality, Mayo Sava. The projects are a significant part of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities for MNJTF.

In his remarks during the handing over of the projects, Major General Ali said MNJTF in collaboration with COGINTA Non Governmental Organisation have constructed a block of 4 classrooms, an administrative block, and a toilet facility in Amtchiale. This he described as a testament to MNJTF continuous commitment to the improvement of education in its area of operations. He added that, in Kangalerie and Tousky, MNJTF have drilled up two boreholes each. “These are more than just physical structures – they stand as embodiments of hope and development, promising improvement in water supply and education, which are fundamental to nurturing peaceful, prosperous communities” he stated.

Major General Ali further revealed that the construction of a new laboratory block and a consulting room in Bonderi are ongoing adding that the provision of these amenities will go a long way in transforming this community and enhancing the living standard of the locals.

The Force Commander condemned the havoc and devastation caused by the Boko Haram describing their terrorism action as an affront to humanity and progress. He appealed for local cooperation in containing the threat of remnants of Boko Haram in the region.

In his welcome address, the Mayor of Mora municipality, Chetima Hamidou who received the projects on behalf of the communities appreciated the MNJTF, COGINTA and European Union for supporting the stabilisation of his municipality which is worst affected by insurgents attacks. He pledges to work together with national and multinational troops to contain the threat of remnants of terrorists. The Mayor appealed for more support to aid citizens of his area to recover from Boko Haram attacks.

Earlier, the Force Commander in his interaction with officers of Sector 1 sought their continued cooperation in the fight against insurgency in the sector.

He commended the troops for their relentless effort acknowledging the successes recorded in achieving the MNJTF Mandate. Gen Ali emphasised the importance of unity of purpose and continued collaboration among multinational forces to ensure lasting peace and security in the region.

GRASSROOT MOBILIZATION FOR ASIWAJU (GMA)
BADARUS MINISTERIAL APPOINTMENT: A GIANT STRIDE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION BY
COMRADE AMINU AMINU

Undoubtedly, no position is too big for this true patriot and a giant tree in Nigerian politics given what he stood for before and after the general elections.

His strength does not stop at delivering JIGAWA State nor does it stop at his National struggles to ensure the success of APC at all levels but at incorporating talents of Jigawa State origin to assist in ensuring victory at the polls.

In this digital age, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar brought to the fore a young brilliant gentleman to oversee Data Management Committee APC Presidential Campaign Council as (PCC, 2023) as secretary. A position Mal. Kashifu Inuwa hold diligently which greatly helped in the realization of Tinubu’s victory at the polls.

It is against this background that GMA felt deeply concerned when we began to hear of names of nominees from JIGAWA State as Ministers other than Badaru. Those names never in any way contributed to the struggle when compared to what Alhaji Badaru Abubakar MON Mni brought to the table as a strategist since the inception of APC as a party.

That is why we at GRASSROOT MOBILIZATION FOR ASIWAJU are bent on seeing only those that served the movement diligently are rewarded especially when it comes to Ministerial appointments for our dear state, JIGAWA State.

Principally, the teeming youth in both Youth Coalition and Civil Society for Development (YCSCD) and GRASSROOT MOBILIZATION FOR ASIWAJU (GMA), have from the initial stage of all campaigns, enjoyed the total support of Governor Badaru and his close affinity to Mal. Kashifu Inuwa served as an impetus towards carrying out the multiple programs we understood to ensure the success of Tinubu’s candidature.
Prominent among those things we have done include but are not restricted to:

• Mobilization of Youths and Women across the 19 NORTHERN states of the federation with Malam Kashifu Inuwa ‘s support to aid the mandate given to Governor Badaru as Northern Regional Coordinator of Bola Ahmed Tinibu’s campaign
• Inauguration of 19 Northern States Coordinators and 15 JIGAWA State Excos/27 Local Government Coordinators as part of a strategic sensitization plan to convince voters of the need to actualize Muslim Muslim tickets.

-Campus-to-Campus Mobilization of Students Union Excos and Students Union bodies. And most importantly, received over 50 thousand decampees from other political parties to join APC.

To further ensure success at the polls we mounted a powerful election monitoring and supervision team on all election dates, an effort that was well coordinated and received commendation by H. E. Badaru Abubakar at that time.

Finally, we have the strongest belief that this nomination of H. E Badaru Abubakar as Minister is the best thing that has ever happened to JIGAWA State. From our part, we promise unquestionable loyalty and we will join hands together to ensure your success as an outstanding Minister.

May Allah be our guide
Long Live JIGAWA state
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria